Spirent Communications has announced the launch of its new Hybrid Location Technology Solution (HLTS). Spirent HLTS is the first test solution of its kind, combining Wi-Fi, Assisted Global Navigation Satellite System (A-GNSS), Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) sensor and cellular positioning technologies.

It provides repeatable and reliable lab-based characterization of mobile devices supporting the hybrid location technologies being developed to provide accurate user location everywhere, including indoors - the most common usage scenario. Location-Based Services (LBS) are some of the most widely used services on mobile devices today and continue to gain momentum - leading to an increase in users' needs and expectations for improved LBS performance.

As the leader in navigation satellite simulation and location testing, Spirent recognizes that no singular positioning technology can provide the "accurate everywhere" location needed by many smartphone applications and also critical for the next-generation of enhanced emergency services, such as E911 in the United States.

The HLTS not only integrates multiple positioning technologies but also assists the device developer in optimizing these technologies for precise location determination. For example, the HLTS can be used to optimize Wi-Fi/Sensor algorithms and hardware selection to support indoor positioning where A-GNSS is not available.

The solution is configured and controlled via a single user interface (SimHybrid) which, without the need for additional coding or scripting, allows a user to easily create realistic hybrid test scenarios and significantly reduce development time. The HLTS provides detailed analysis of test results, with comprehensive debugging tools and logs.

"Spirent is excited to provide the first test solution that integrates four very different and distinct positioning technologies and which will accelerate the development of next-generation location technologies in wireless devices," said Spirent vice president Hesham ElHamahmy.

"This is testament to Spirent's long-standing leadership and commitment to remain at the forefront of testing these technologies." Uniquely, the HLTS brings together all elements of hybrid positioning technology synchronously and simultaneously. It offers two testing modes: measure and playback, and simulation.

Measure and playback mode allows real-world Wi-Fi, GPS, sensor and cellular data signals to be measured and recorded in the field, and then processed and played back on the HLTS in the lab. Simulation mode takes advantage of Spirent's global leadership in simulation of the signals used by mobile device location technologies.

As the latest in a long line of location technology test innovations and market firsts from Spirent, the HLTS is the first and only solution to provide the device developer with all the tools and capabilities necessary to deliver "accurate everywhere" location on mobile devices.