GPS + GLONASS mode is particularly beneficial in specific activities and environments where satellite visibility is compromised. Here are some scenarios where using GPS + GLONASS is advantageous compared to GPS only:
1. Urban Environments
- Urban Canyons: In cities with tall buildings, GPS signals can be obstructed, leading to inaccuracies. The additional satellites from GLONASS help improve positioning accuracy by providing more signals, which can mitigate the effects of signal reflection and obstruction caused by buildings.2. Mountainous Areas
- Mountain Valleys: Similar to urban environments, mountainous terrain can create challenges for GPS reception due to limited satellite visibility. Using GPS + GLONASS increases the number of satellites available, which can enhance accuracy and reduce errors in position determination.3. Dense Forests
- Tree Cover: In areas with heavy tree cover, the canopy can block GPS signals. The extra satellites from GLONASS can help maintain a more reliable connection, improving tracking accuracy in such environments.4. Activities Requiring High Precision
- Running and Cycling: For activities like running or cycling in challenging environments (e.g., urban areas or trails), GPS + GLONASS can provide better route tracking and more accurate distance measurements, which is crucial for performance analysis.5. Faster Position Fix
- Time to First Fix (TTFF): GPS + GLONASS can lead to faster positioning times in environments where satellite geometry is poor. More satellites can help achieve a position fix more quickly, which is beneficial for activities that require immediate tracking.Conclusion
In summary, GPS + GLONASS is more beneficial in urban settings, mountainous regions, and dense forests, where additional satellite coverage can significantly enhance tracking accuracy and reliability. This makes it a preferred choice for activities like running and cycling in challenging environments, where maintaining accurate positioning is critical.Citations:
[1] https://www.navigation-professionell.de/en/garmin-which-satellite-systems-should-i-use-gps-glonass-galileo/
[2] https://forums.garmin.com/sports-fitness/sports-fitness/f/edge-130/156249/gps-or-gps-glonass-or-gps-galileo-and-why
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/Garmin/comments/11tmn87/activities_gps_settings/
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/Garmin/comments/lb5m6h/do_you_use_gps_gpsglonass_or_gpsgalileo/
[5] https://www.walmart.com/ip/Garmin-fenix-3-Performer-Bundle-GPS-GLONASS-watch-cycle-running-swimming-1-2/44757159