The Huawei Watch Ultimate, like other Huawei watches, primarily uses a barometer to measure altitude. This barometer calculates altitude based on atmospheric pressure, which is compared to the standard atmospheric pressure at sea level to estimate elevation. While GPS can provide location data, it does not directly measure altitude as accurately as a barometer. However, GPS can be used indirectly to help calibrate the barometer's altitude readings.
Calibration Using GPS
1. Outdoor Workout Calibration: You can calibrate the altitude feature by starting an outdoor workout in an open area and exercising for more than 5 minutes. This method uses GPS positioning to help adjust the barometer's readings. Ensure that your GPS is working accurately for this method to be effective[1].
2. Online Altitude Calibration: Some Huawei devices allow for online altitude calibration through the Compass app. This feature uses internet connectivity to adjust altitude readings based on GPS data. However, this is more about ensuring the barometer's calibration is accurate using external data rather than directly using GPS for altitude measurement[10].
Limitations of GPS for Altitude Calibration
- Accuracy: GPS is generally less accurate for altitude measurements compared to barometric pressure sensors. GPS can provide location data, but altitude from GPS is often less precise, especially in areas with dense tree cover or urban canyons.
- Methodology: GPS altitude is typically derived from the intersection of multiple satellite signals, which can be affected by atmospheric conditions and satellite geometry. In contrast, barometric pressure sensors provide a more direct measurement of atmospheric pressure, which is closely related to altitude.
Best Practices for Accurate Altitude Readings
- Barometer Calibration: Regularly calibrate the barometer in an open area to ensure accurate readings. This involves opening the Barometer app, accessing the Altitude screen, and touching Calibrate. Stay in the same place for a few minutes to allow the device to adjust properly[1].
- Use in Open Areas: Avoid using the barometer indoors or in areas with significant electromagnetic interference, as these can affect accuracy.
- Internet Connectivity: Ensure that online altitude calibration is enabled if available, to help maintain accurate readings when internet is available[10].
In summary, while GPS can assist in calibrating altitude readings indirectly, the Huawei Watch Ultimate primarily relies on barometric pressure for altitude measurements. For the most accurate results, use the barometer's calibration features and ensure that GPS is working well when using outdoor workout calibration methods.
Citations:
[1] https://consumer.huawei.com/ca/support/content/en-us15985951/
[2] https://consumer.huawei.com/en/support/content/en-us00737233/
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcfY9yzNE80
[4] https://cdn3.evostore.io/documents/fusion/566157_userguide.pdf
[5] https://xdaforums.com/t/how-to-calibrate-the-compass-on-huawei-watch.3405162/
[6] https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2023/11/suunto-amoled-review.html
[7] https://consumer.huawei.com/en/support/content/en-us15771431/
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/HuaweiWatchGT/comments/1fz9e4j/a_huawei_watch_guide_for_beginners/
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnkmEJbDYr0
[10] https://consumer.huawei.com/en/support/content/en-us00410248/