Tips for efficient use of GPS

[jeckthehell]

Here are a few things to keep in mind to get the best out of your GPS enabled Nokia device:

Tip 1: Avoid blocking the antenna with your hand
The GPS antenna is placed under the numeric keypad of the device. For best reception, open the keypad and try not to cover it with your hand.

Tip 2: It only works outdoors
The device works best under a clear sky. The satellite signal gets easily blocked by roofs, or even tall buildings nearby.

Tip 3: Weather conditions may weaken the signal
The satellite signal is affected by the air it travels through. Rain, clouds, or fog may make GPS reception very difficult.

Tip 4: Be patient: connecting to the GPS system takes a while
Connecting with GPS satellites takes at least 40 seconds. The same applies to standalone GPS devices.

Tip 5: UV protected or heated windscreens may block the signal
Although not designed for it, the GPS receiver can be used in a car – if the conditions are very good. For example, a UV protected or heated windscreen may dampen the signal.

From:
Nokia - Nokia N95 - Product support - Tips for better GPS usage

Dont forget:
If your device cannot find the satellite signal, consider the following:
- If you are indoors, go outdoors to receive a better signal.
- If the numeric keypad slide is closed, open it.
- If you are outdoors, move to a more open space.
- Check that your hand does not cover the GPS receiver of your device.
- If the weather conditions are bad, in such a case the signal strength may also be affected.
- Establishing a GPS connection may take from a couple of seconds to several minutes.
- Avoid to use screen saver when GPS connection is establishing.

NOTE: The GPS receiver takes its power from the battery. Using the GPS receiver may drain the battery faster.

from Nokia N95 Support Team

[Dialslider]

Updating to firmware V20.0.0.015 will give you AGPS (Assisted Global Positioning), this is where the operators uses triangulation via 3 cell masts to work out your position.

Makes the N95 get its co-ordinates in 20 seconds!!

PS (Apple phone using AGPS) it’s not as accurate as N-95 as N95 uses the reference of the AGPS and the built in SurfII chip set data.

[Sp00k]

Alas, the N95 doesn't have the Sirf chip-set, I only wish that it did... :(

It uses Texas Instruments GPS receiver-circuitry...

[mariokarter]

i can get reception indoors from my third floor or whenever im close to a window - but then again i have a n82 :P

[Georgije]

the tip i miss in there is that users should make sure they turn on AGPS, i noticed that's a common problem with people who complain in forums :D. although it seems to be on by default with the latest firmware.

Tools->Settings->General->Positioning->Positioning methods->Server asisted GPS ON
then one step back and:
Positioning server:
->Access point: [what you use to get on the internet, but not WLAN]
->Server adress: supl.nokia.com


maybe some words are different than in english menus, i translated them from my language because i don't want to change my phone's language just to give slightly better tips ;)

[AqtiveJet]

Actually with the v2x firmwares i have no problem getting signals indoors! Even with a max of 6 stories above me and no windows nearby, i can get a lock no problem. Takes at least 5 mins though if u plan to use GPS in a building lol....

*i got bored during my tuition lessons*