A hybrid positioning algorithm for cellular radio networks by using a common rake receiver architecture

The development of context-aware services is strongly pushing the integration of positioning capabilities in personal communication terminals, with particular attention to third generation systems (UMTS). On the other hand, the synergy between communication and positioning can be of aid for this latter easing the acquisition and tracking of weak signals, and improving performance. In order to provide the user of reliable positioning solutions a suitable receiver dealing both with navigation and communication signal is required. A new hybrid positioning algorithm and a joint receiver structure able to receive and process signals broadcast from both navigation satellite systems and cellular radio networks, is presented, discussing the impact on the joint receiver.