This paper examines a high accuracy, cost effective point positioning system that utilises low-cost single frequency GPS receivers. The processing approach implemented in this research is based on single frequency Precise Point Positioning (PPP) technique. An introduction to single frequency PPP, the research software and processing technique, as well as the error sources are provided. The processing technique is first tested using single frequency data extracted from geodetic quality dual frequency measurements followed by data collected from GIS grade and low-cost consumer grade receivers. This investigation is undertaken both in “simulated” real-time and post-processing modes.

The findings from this study are promising. It shows that single frequency PPP using a low-cost GPS receiver could potentially provide point positioning accuracy better than 1m with a precision of 1.7m horizontally and 1.5m vertical accuracy with a precision of 3.3m in post-processing mode. In “simulated” real-time scenario, the accuracy of the estimated horizontal positions is about 1.2m with a precision of 2.2m; the accuracy and precision of the estimated solutions are about 1.5m and 3.6m, respectively. The quality of the estimated single frequency PPP positions is better when using a GIS grade receiver. Accuracies and precisions better than 0.3m horizontally and 0.7m vertically are obtained in post-processing mode. For real-time point positioning, coordinates accuracy and precision of about 1.5m to 2m is obtained. These results are outstanding considering the lower receiver cost. Moreover, this technique only requires one receiver for positioning, hence reducing the complexity of field operation and procedure.