📶 Diagnostic parameter for GSM and GPS status
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Diagnostic Parameters: GSM & GPS Status

This guide details how to interpret signal quality for both cellular (GSM) and satellite (GPS/GNSS) communications on Munic devices.

1. GSM Status (Signal Strength)

The network quality is determined by the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) field. This value represents the modem's signal strength on a scale of 0 to 31.

RSSI Reference Table

RSSI ValueSignal LevelQuality Description
0 – 9MarginalHigh risk of disconnection or data loss.
10 – 14OKStable connection, suitable for standard tasks.
15 – 19GoodReliable high-speed data transfer.
20 – 31ExcellentOptimal network conditions.
99UnknownThe value is not yet available or the modem is initializing.

Note: For more details on data mapping, see the Field Documentation (OBD V6/V8).

2. GPS / GNSS Status (Precision & Satellites)

To determine the reliability of a location fix, we monitor DOP (Dilution of Precision) and satellite counts.

Key Data Fields

  • GPS_PDOP: Positional Dilution of Precision. This is our primary field for assessing overall fix confidence.

  • GPS_HDOP / GPS_VDOP: Horizontal and Vertical precision, respectively.

  • GPS_FIX_SAT_NUM: The number of satellites used for the fix.

    • Minimum for 3D Fix: 4 satellites.

    • Rule of thumb: More satellites = higher accuracy and faster initial fix.

PDOP Interpretation Guide

DOP ValueRatingApplication Suitability
< 1IdealHighest precision; used for demanding professional apps.
1 – 2ExcellentAccurate enough for almost all sensitive applications.
2 – 5GoodMinimum threshold for reliable in-route navigation.
5 – 10ModerateFairly reliable, but a more open view of the sky is recommended.
10 – 20FairLow confidence; should only be used for rough estimates.
> 20PoorInaccurate data; measurements should be discarded.

3. Important Limitations (Latency & Coverage)

It is important to understand that reported diagnostics reflect the status at the time of recording, not necessarily the time of transmission.

  • No Coverage Zones: A device may record a "Good" RSSI or a PDOP of 2, but if the vehicle enters a tunnel or dead zone immediately after, that data cannot be transmitted until coverage is regained.

  • Emission Strategy: By default, the device transmits data every 2 minutes. While this can be configured, the absolute minimum period is 30 seconds.

  • Custom Firmware: Specialized developments can lower the emission period to roughly 5–10 seconds, but "corner cases" (short signal drops between transmissions) will still exist due to the physics of cellular handovers.