Satellite Data Transmitters: GTX-1.0, GTX-2.0, & XPress

GPS Week Number Rollover

As you may have heard, there will be a GPS Week Number Rollover that will affect devices that obtain the Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) from GPS devices.  This GPS Week Number Rollover will occur on April 07, 2019. 

Microcom utilizes the Trimble LassenSQ GPS Module for obtaining the UTC in the GTX-1.0 and the Trimble Condor C2626 GPS Module for the GTX-2.0 Satellite Data Transmitters.  Because of this, all GTX-1.0, GTX-2.0, and XPress units will be affected.

Trimble has distributed an update to solve this problem, but it would require all units to be sent back to Microcom.  In an effort to provide a solution that will allow stations to remain active, Microcom has developed a firmware update that can be installed remotely in the field.  There are different updates for differing GTX models, and, because of this, we are asking that you reach out to Microcom to receive the correct firmware update.

Please contact Microcom stating whether you have the GTX-1.0, GTX-2.0 or both.  Also, please include serial numbers and current firmware revisions if possible. All emails should be directed to Matt Taylor (MattT@MicrocomDesign.com) and Steve Scott (SScott@MicrocomDesign.com).  If you prefer to speak with Matt or Steve, please call 410-771-1070 and let the operator know you are calling in reference to the GPS Week Number Rollover.

We are committed to resolving this issue without impacting your data collection operations. We will be on stand-by to field questions and provide support for the firmware update installation.  Additionally, we have received the approval from NOAA that this update will not affect the transmitters’ GOES Data Collection System Certification and can be completed by the users.

For further reading on the issue at hand, please download the following:

Homeland Security Memorandum

Trimble Product Bulletin Link