GPS problems - Android 9

GPS Troubleshooting & Signal Optimization

If you are experiencing GPS signal or location-locking issues on your CI Pad, follow the troubleshooting steps below.

1. Check Google Assisted Location Settings

Ensure that Google Assisted Location is disabled in the system settings: navigate to Settings > Location > Advanced. Certain applications (such as Google Maps) may prompt to enable this feature automatically. If prompted to improve location accuracy using Google Assisted Location, decline the request.

Note for v4 and v4b units: Native Google Assisted Location support is being introduced in upcoming software releases, which will allow this feature to function properly after updating.

2. Hardware and Software Troubleshooting

1. Antenna Orientation: Ensure the internal GPS antenna is not obstructed. Verify that the CI Pad is not inserted upside-down into the holder. The GPS antenna is positioned next to the M8 connector along the center of the short edge.
2. GNSS Chip Reset (v3 & v4 units): If the GPSTune application is installed on your device, use it to perform a GNSS chip reset.
3. OS Upgrade (v4 & v4b units): Update your device to Android 11. The GPS stack has been completely overhauled for improved stability and performance.
4. Third-Party App Conflicts: If you are running the DMD2 app and issues persist, temporarily uninstall DMD2 and retest GPS performance to rule out software conflicts.

GPS Antenna Location

3. External & Environmental Factors

Important: If GPS signal loss occurs intermittently or only in specific geographic areas, it is likely caused by external environmental factors rather than a hardware defect. Avoid installing third-party "GPS booster" apps, as they typically degrade positioning performance.

GPS signal acquisition and precision can be impaired under the following conditions:

• Obstructed Sky View: Dense urban areas with tall buildings (urban canyons) or deep valleys with steep terrain.
• Severe Weather: Heavy cloud cover, storms, or dense precipitation (water in the atmosphere attenuates satellite signals).
• Solar & Geomagnetic Activity: Elevated solar activity causing ionospheric disturbances.
• Intentional GNSS Interference: Localized or regional GPS jamming/spoofing, often associated with military facilities or conflict zones.