A multi-antenna GPS system for local area deformation monitoring

A new method of using GPS for monitoring local area deformations such as landslides is presented. Unlike the standard method of using GPS for deformation monitoring where a GPS receiver is required for each point to be monitored, the new method allows multiple points to be monitored with one receiver. A system that implements the concept has been developed. It uses a specially designed electronic component that allows a number of GPS antennas to be linked to a single GPS receiver. The receiver takes data sequentially from each of the antennas attached to the receiver. A distinctive advantage of the approach is that one GPS receiver can be used to monitor more than one point. The cost per monitored point is therefore significantly reduced. The design of the system, as well as the data management and processing strategies will be introduced in detail. Results from some preliminary tests will also be given.