What is an OEM amplifier?
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. An OEM amplifier is a shortened version of OEM GPS amplifier.
The main function of a GPS amplifier is to improve your GPS signal strength. GPS receivers are able to separate the desired signal from all other unwanted signals by matching their self-generated signal code with that of the satellites code, but in order for them to operate at peak performance, they must be able to receive the GPS signals clearly. One of the most common sources of signal degradation, detracting from a receiver’s ability to do so, is excessively long antenna cables. When long cables separate a GPS antenna and receiver, this can result in increased noise, reduced receiver sensitivity, and signal loss.
This excessive cable length can cause a loss of signal between a GPS antenna and receiver because as GPS signals pass through long antenna cables, they become less intense, and therefore more difficult for the GPS receiver to interpret. The amount of signal loss depends entirely on cable type and length, but when an antenna cable is longer than about 50 feet, signal strength can drop below the receiver’s ability to track it, resulting in the signal being lost.
OEM amplifiers eliminate this problem by amplifying the GPS signal, and permitting a longer antenna cable. With the proper OEM amplifier, it is often possible to extend the distance between your GPS antenna and GPS receiver to hundreds of feet. If you are working with larger scale installations, the use of OEM amplifiers can often allow the GPS/GNSS signal to reach the required distances.
OEM amplifiers are easy to acquire and install, and will not require any special wiring. They can be plugged directly in line with your antenna cable, and power to the inline amplifier is already available from your GPS receiver, using the same power as your antenna.
