The Geode Sub-meter GPS Receiver by Juniper Systems has been tested by many outlets and third-parties in the time that it has existed. One third-party is the Forest Service branch of the USDA. The Forest Service’s National Technology and Development Program (NTDP) has been testing devices and GPS receivers for many years in order to provide their diverse user base with updated recommendations about devices to purchase to meet the needs of the agency.
The testing
Using the Forest Service’s most recent GPS receiver horizontal accuracy test results from the Geode it is possible to compare it to similar products such as the R1 GNSS by Trimble and the Arrow 100 by EOS.
Testing by the Forest Service covers three types of potential canopy cover: open, light to medium, and heavy to closed. These testing scenarios help to give a better look at what can be expected when individuals are out surveying regardless of canopy cover type or density.
The testing evaluates performance on several known control points under different types of “canopy” or obstructed sky, and varied observation times, including single occupation and averaged positions. Within the testing the distances of accuracy for each device are similar at first glance, taking a closer look reveals more.
Trimble R1 GNSS test result via the USDA Forest Service – 2019
Arrow 100 test result via the USDA Forest Service – 2019
In recent testing, across all three canopy types, the Geode beats the R1 when averaging five position points and beats it two out of three in the test that averages 60 positions. The two wins for the Geode when 60 positions were averaged come in the heavier density of canopy.
The Arrow 100 also beat the R1 in the same fashion as the Geode in the 60 position average. When comparing the Geode to the Arrow 100, the Geode sees wins in open areas as well as light to medium canopy coverage. The two devices come close in heavy to closed canopy with both devices averaging under three meters of accuracy.
All three devices prove to be reliable sub-meter devices in open clear sky, with the Geode and Arrow 100 standing out as better solutions for heavier canopy cover. The Geode wins out over the Arrow 100 in open sky testing as well. For complete results you can follow the link below.
While this is data is from only one series of test at a specific test site, the data suggests the Geode is clearly equal to, and may be in some instances superior to the competing products tested above.
Notes from the USDA Forest Service website:
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/gps/mtdcrept/accuracy/index.htm
- The Horizontal Accuracy testing calculates a 95% confidence level (i.e. 95 out of 100 times the GPS accuracy will be equal to or better than tested distances from the true location).
- Testing standards can be found at the following link: NSSDA Standards
- Some results are an average of more than one test run.
- Testing allows for the GPS device to acquire a current almanac and ephemeris data before position data is collected .
Outside of the Geode’s amazing accuracy and versatility, the device is backed by industry-leading support and design. Additional to its positioning accuracy the Geode stands out with its price, durability, and support.
Low price, high performance
The Geode not only beats and matches the competition in testing situations, but it also beats them in price. The Geode is a powerhouse of performance and versatility that doesn’t break your budget. The receiver easily comes in less than the competition.
Robust connectivity
The Geode easily connects with devices across Windows, Android, iPhone, and iPad. This range of connectivity allows for organizations to deploy Geodes to employees with whatever device and OS their preferred applications run on. This also allows for a cost-conscious organization to select devices that fit their budgets and needs.
Juniper Rugged™
Waterproof and dustproof. The Geode went through extensive in-house testing to ensure it’s built ultra-tough for unwavering reliability in the most rugged work environments out there. With the highest certified protection against water and dust, the Geode is stamped with an impressive IP68 rating. Did we mention that it floats? It does and it’s awesome.
Translation? This thing is built like a tank. No matter if you’re working in hot, cold, wet, or dusty conditions, the Geode will perform the way you need it to.
Designed, assembled, and supported in the USA
The Geode is designed and assembled in the United States. We take pride in the level of quality it achieves with each device leaving its doors. Each device in Juniper Systems’ line of handhelds and sensors are carefully crafted to meet the needs of its users. The Geode is an all-in-one device that houses the GPS receiver and antenna in the housing. The Geode also allows for external antennas or external power to be connected.
From product design to engineering to manufacturing, everything happens under one roof at Juniper Systems’ Logan, Utah, USA facility. This allows each product to undergo extensive testing for quality, durability, and performance. If there is ever an issue with your Geode, it is backed by a 2-year warranty at the time of purchase and Juniper Systems also offers extended warranties up to 5-years. You get quick and professional support and if the Geode ever needs repairs it is handled right here in the USA. This means your device is worked on and returned to you quickly.
Learn more
The Geode Sub-meter Receiver is available through Juniper Systems resellers worldwide. If you would like to learn more about the Geode please reach out to us here. You can take a look at our unboxing and overview of the Geode in this Field Ready video.
- Read about the new Geode GNS2 Sub-meter Receiver here
- Need new GIS software? Take a look at our recommended list
- Take a look at a recent customer use case featuring the Geode
