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Bandwidth A measure of the capacity of a signal to carry information. It is expressed as the width of the spectrum of that signal (frequency domain representation) in hertz.
Base Station Also called a reference station. A receiver that is set up on a known location specifically to collect data for differentially correcting rover files. The base station calculates the error for each satellite and, through differential correction, improves the accuracy of GPS positions collected at unknown locations by a roving GPS receiver.
Baseline The three dimensional vector that represents the distance and direction from one survey station to another. It is the result of processing GPS observations that were collected simultaneously at each station and is expressed as values of dx, dy, dz in the ECEF coordinate system.
Bearing (BRG): The precise compass direction (in degrees) from your present position to the next waypoint. (Readings are selectable in either degrees magnetic or true north).
Beat frequency The additional frequencies obtained when signals of two frequencies are mixed. The beat frequencies are equal to the sum or difference of the original frequencies. In GPS these are the wide lane that has an 86 cm wavelength and the narrow lane that has a 9 cm wavelength.
Bias See Integer ambiguity
Binary biphase modulation Phase changes of either 0 or 180 degrees on a constant frequency carrier (representing a binary 0 or 1, respectively). GPS signals are biphase modulated.
Binary pulse code modulation Pulse modulation using a string of binary numbers (codes). This coding is usually represented by 1's and 0's with definite meanings assigned to them. Examples include changes in phase or direction of a wave.
Block I, II, IIR, IIF satellites The various generations of GPS satellites: Block I were prototype satellites that began being launched in 1978; 24 Block II satellites made up the fully operational GPS constellation declared in 1995; Block IIR are replenishment satellites; and Block IIF refers to the follow-on generation.
Bluebook A term derived from a blue reference book published by the NGS in the USA. The book contains information and formats required by the NGS for survey data that is to be submitted and considered for use in their national network.
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