Database Info

GPS Settings: Performance Options (improvement)

Ok, There are a lot of posts and information regarding the GPS issue that some are experiencing. I am starting (yet) another post in the interest of compiling and maintaining information regarding that information in one location. As users/devs find out information I will update this post so everyone doesn't have to go looking everywhere for the information. I am hoping that the Moderator will sticky this post.
Some users are experiencing very long lock times for their GPS. Everyone, after reading A LOT of posts/threads it seems to be the consensus that this is a software/settings issue - NOT, a hardware issue. However, results from tweaking the following settings are very mixed. Most seem to get great results by tweaking the following settings while stationary - but, moving is a whole different ball game. I use the below settings and have great results while stationary. However, my G1 blows the Captivate completely out of the water!!! My G1 gave 3-10m accuracy while driving. This device can barely keep me on the correct highway and always seem lagging behind my current location. The G1 was spot on no matter what. What hasn't been determined is if these issues are hardware or software. For whatever my opinion is worth - I think it is a firmware/software issue. Here are some things to try.
Here is the info:
To get to your GPS settings open you dialer and dial the following number. This will not call anyone - it is a code shortcut to the settings:
*#*#1472365#*#*
Once entered you will observe a screen that has five buttons:
Get Position Test
Application Settings
SUPL/CP Settings
Test Application
Delete GPS Data
We will be interested in three of these initial buttons.
Get Position Test: This will be what one uses to test the results of your changes.
Application Settings: Exactly what it says.
SUPL/CP Settings: settings that determine specific data connectivity with the satellites.
In Application Settings the following are some that you might consider adjusting:
Operation Mode - Standalone, MS Based, MS assisted, Network Provider
Accuracy - defaults to 50. Don't set it below 10 (and only use increments of 10's)
SkyHook - not sure what it does. But, someone on a thread mentioned it and it DOES effect satellite lock times.
In SUPL/CP Settings one we'll be interested in the following:
Server FQDN Type
Server
Server Port
The following are the options provided on other threads:
Original/Stock Settings:
SUPL/CP Settings/SErver FQDN Type/Custom Config
Application settings/Operation Mode/Standalone
SUPL/CP Settings/Server/www.spirent-lcs.com
SUPL/CP Settings/Port/7275
Second suggested setup (from other posts and claimed to have great results):
SUPL/CP Settings/SErver FQDN Type/Custom Config
Application settings/Operation Mode/MS Based
SUPL/CP Settings/Server/supl.google.com
SUPL/CP Settings/Port/7276
Other settings that I have played with:
Application settings/SkyHook/On (and Off)
SUPL/CP Settings/SErver FQDN Type/Auto Config (and Custom Config)
You can play around with these to see what gives you the best results. If your GPS doesn't work better with whatever changes you made - than you can always put it back to the orginal settings above.
However, it has been recommended and I concur (for whatever that is worth) that you NEED TO SET THE FOLLOWING BEFORE YOU START PLAYING AROUND: Settings/Location and security/uncheck (turn off) "Use Wireless Networks). Most likely this won't really effect anything while your testing within the GPS settings - however, this will effect your results if you test using Google Maps, etc.
Now, having duly noted all of the above and having played around with the settings for several hours I found the best results FOR MY DEVICE IN MY AREA AT ONE LOCATION was the following:
Note: I adjusted these settings from earlier as the earlier settings proved to be very accurate when stationary - but, very inaccurate while moving. The latest settings I'm using are below. Also, look to the bottom of this post regarding changing your gps configuration file. That also helped A LOT. The bottom section of information is from the Official websites that run the time servers(effects GPS performance).
Application Settings/Operation Mode/MS Based
Application Settings/Operation Mode/SkyHook/ON (VERY IMPORTANT)
SUPL/CP Settings/Server FQDN Type/Custom Config
SUPL/CP Settings/Server/supl.google.com
SUPL/CP Settings/Server Port/7276
SUPL/CP Settings/SUPL Secure Socket/Off
Turning "SkyHook" ON assisted in faster locks with ALL of my tested settings when stationary!
My test results with the above would lock on up to three satellites in under four seconds and between 7 and 10 by eight seconds. Google Maps would locate me in about 6-8 seconds.
Using "Get Position Test" the settings in the three lines above consistently gave the not only the fastest locks and the most locks - but, also STRONGER SIGNALS!
I used at least seven different combinations of the above settings and some of them were just as quick - but, not as strong. Most of them were slower.
If anyone has better information to add then please PM me and I will add it to this top post.
LASTLY, I will make some guesses as to what some of the other settings do as I have heard different information:
Application Settings:
Session Type: Tracking or Singleshot - obvious (use Tracking)
Start Mode: Hot or Cold Start - someone posted on a thread that Hot uses data from your last read to get started. Cold start will start all over. So, Cold start SHOULD increase the time for you to get a lock unless you went left the area to an area that had different satellite to look up.
Test Application:
Performance Test: worked for me - but, I found the test above to work faster and give me quicker results for what I wanted.
Hardware Test/Sensitivity Test: Pretty cool - went on forever and I stopped it.
CNO Test: Seemed to test the average satellite signal strength.
Antenna Test: Never worked for me and I received errors.
H/W Test Settings: Settings for the above tests - I didn't mess with them.
NOTE: WANT TO SEE HOW ACCURATE YOUR ACCELEROMETER/COMPASS/ORIENTATION settings are? Check this out:
Test Application/Show Sensor Data - there is no way to calibrate it here... But, you can see just how sensitive your instruments are!!
Delete GPS Data - I didn't select this button and I don't recommend anyone else doing so either unless someone from Samsung tells us what it does. LOL!
FINALLY: Keep in mind that if you are seeing GPS lock times that are in the 3-8 second range (which was what I was getting) this WILL NOT be how long it takes for Google Maps to get the GPS data! Expect 8-15 seconds or a little longer (but, under 30 seconds) for Google Maps to pick up your location. Although the GPS sensors might pick up the satellites - you still have to give the software time to evaluate the data and apply it to the software.
Hope this helps someone out there.
Update/Additional Information (http://androidforums.com/1194187-post197.html):
Hot Start - The GPS receiver remembers its last calculated position and which satellites were in view, the almanac used, and the UTC Time. It then performs a reset and attempts to acquire satellites and calculate a new position based upon the previous information. This is the quickest re-acquisition of a GPS lock.
Cold Start - The GPS receiver dumps all information and resets. It then attempts to locate satellites and then calculate a GPS lock. This takes the longest because there is no known information. The GPS receiver has to attempt to lock a satellite signal from all of the satellites, basically like polling, which takes a lot longer than knowing which satellites to look for. This re-acquisition of a GPS lock takes the longest.
Thanks to Shadow77895 for the link to this info. I altered the settings above. Doesn't effect my results much at all.
MSBased Operation Mode(http://www.vzwdevelopers.com/aims/public/menu/lbs/LBSFAQ.jsp#GenQues11):
What is MS-Based mode of operation?
In MS-Based mode, the network provides the satellite information to the device, based on a rough estimate of where the device is located, and the device acquires the GPS signals from the satellites and calculates its location. After the initial fix, the device operates like an autonomous GPS receiver, until the satellite information must be refreshed, at which time the device goes back to the network to update the satellite information. MS-Based mode is appropriate for applications that require the device location to be updated rapidly, such as a navigation application.
And email thread regarding using the Google settings for GPS(http://osdir.com/ml/android-platform/2009-08/msg00386.html)
NEW INFORMATION!!!
ALSO! Check out this page: http://www.pool.ntp.org/en/use.html:
As pool.ntp.org will assign you timeservers from all over the world, time quality will not be ideal. You get a bit better result if you use the continental zones (For example europe, north-america, oceania or asia.pool.ntp.org), and even better time if you use the country zone (like ch.pool.ntp.org in Switzerland) - for all these zones, you can again use the 0, 1 or 2 prefixes, like 0.ch.pool.ntp.org. Note, however, that the country zone might not exist for your country, or might contain only one or two timeservers. If you know timeservers that are really close to you (measured by network distance, with traceroute or ping), time probably will be even better.
Find your optimal pool server here: http://www.pool.ntp.org/zone/north-america
For US the optimal server is: us.pool.ntp.org
Reference other threads I (http://ip208-100-42-21.static.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=731462) I recommend you do the following:
Use Root Explorer or some other method (I use Root Explorer as it has a built in Text Editor and automatically backs up the altered file.) to go to here:
system/etc/gps.conf
Use the text editor to alter the gps.conf file to this (if you are in the US):
NTP_SERVER=us.pool.ntp.org
XTRA_SERVER_1=north-america.pool.ntp.org
XTRA_SERVER_2=http://xtra2.gpsonextra.net/xtra.bin
XTRA_SERVER_3=http://xtra3.gpsonextra.net/xtra.bin
If you are NOT in the US go to here: http://www.pool.ntp.org/en/use.html and look at the links in the center of the page to navigate to the closest pool to your geographical location and use that pool for the top server entry.
REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Many are suggesting that we do NOT leave the Secure Socket ON. How will this effect data security with our devices? I don't understand how it could hurt us... But, there must be a reason for it. If someone could let me know I would appreciate it.

Good, guide, think you meant hot start should be faster though.
I'll be linking to this.
Sent from my Samsung Captivate using XDA app

Great, but doesn't address the problem
I need to point out that while this information is helpful it doesn't really address the problem that the GPS is facing.
What the above settings are doing is enabling multiple different A-GPS technologies to help compensate for the Galaxy S's poor GPS performance. A properly functioning GPS unit would not need these crutches except to acquire a faster fix.
I had my GPS outdoors today, with the first set of recommended settings, and was unable to achieve a fix while seven satellites were in view (according to it) with sufficient signal strength. This is a GPS firmware issue!
The above post is very helpful for people to get some better performance - however - the core GPS issues need to be addressed by Samsung.
I hope people will refrain from saying "It's perfect now!" and let up on Samsung. Unless you know what what the following are you're tweaking settings blindly and declaring victory: ephemeris, PDOP, SBAS, WGS-84, 2D fix, 3D fix (And the conditions one is chosen over the other.) and finally SA
I'm betting this phone would never achieve a fix in an SA environment! It's also clear that the person(s) who originated this information knew exactly what they were doing..!
If anyone is interested in learning how GPS works there are tons of great resources on the web that Google will point you to. Of course they're written for all sorts of different levels.
In short, the above settings may help, but please don't become convinced that things are "fixed"!

I'd suggest you read my posts on the subject:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=7244888#post7244888
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=7289539#post7289539

@haydonxda - I agree that this does NOT address the potential problem that the firmware and/or hardware is inadequate! And, we should put pressure on Samsung to fix this issue. However, the phones have already been produced and I'm just trying to do the best with I have.
@Shadow77895 - thanks for the info. Added a bunch of further information after looking into your posts and references from them.

Try this fix (from 4pda.ru), working on Galaxy S, root access required:
$su
#cat /data/gps/secgps.conf > /sdcard/secgps.conf
#rm /data/gps/secgps.conf
#reboot
After reboot, new (correct) secgps.conf appears.
At your own risk!

shaneaus said:
NEW INFORMATION!!!
ALSO! Check out this page: http://www.pool.ntp.org/en/use.html:
As pool.ntp.org will assign you timeservers from all over the world, time quality will not be ideal. You get a bit better result if you use the continental zones (For example europe, north-america, oceania or asia.pool.ntp.org), and even better time if you use the country zone (like ch.pool.ntp.org in Switzerland) - for all these zones, you can again use the 0, 1 or 2 prefixes, like 0.ch.pool.ntp.org. Note, however, that the country zone might not exist for your country, or might contain only one or two timeservers. If you know timeservers that are really close to you (measured by network distance, with traceroute or ping), time probably will be even better.
Find your optimal pool server here: http://www.pool.ntp.org/zone/north-america
For US the optimal server is: us.pool.ntp.org
Reference other threads I (http://ip208-100-42-21.static.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=731462) I recommend you do the following:
Use Root Explorer or some other method (I use Root Explorer as it has a built in Text Editor and automatically backs up the altered file.) to go to here:
system/etc/gps.conf
Use the text editor to alter the gps.conf file to this (if you are in the US):
NTP_SERVER=us.pool.ntp.org
XTRA_SERVER_1=north-america.pool.ntp.org
XTRA_SERVER_2=http://xtra2.gpsonextra.net/xtra.bin
XTRA_SERVER_3=http://xtra3.gpsonextra.net/xtra.bin
If you are NOT in the US go to here: http://www.pool.ntp.org/en/use.html and look at the links in the center of the page to navigate to the closest pool to your geographical location and use that pool for the top server entry.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you use the text editor in Root Explorer. I can see the text but it won't allow me to edit it.

Hello, the code:
*#*#1472365#*#*
starts a GPS Test Application.
The settings inside this application are only for this application.
You can test your GPS in different modes.
But the settings are not relevant for other applications.
It is a simple illusion that it helps to manipulate this settings.
GPS is very time-dependent.
And:
I don't know where we can change the default GPS Mode/s...

So when I walk outside my office there are like 7 satellites, and I still cannot get a lock. This is sad.
Out of the box it worked great, navigated from BB to my house with relative ease. Inside my house when I showed my parents it worked great. I rooted and deleted some ATT apps. I have yet to get a lock.
I have also changed the NTP servers and no dice. This is pretty saddening performance.

I still don't get why my Nexus One, sitting right next to my Samsung Captivate, is able to get a aGPS location (via My Location in maps) that is pretty damn accurate despite not having a GPS lock and my Captivate is unable to even get an aGPS location and just says my location data is temporarily unavailable.
Nexus One: Can get approximate location very easily
Samsung Captivate: Cannot even get approximate location using WIFI/Cell Towers.
Foursquare never knows where I am until I go outside in the middle of a parking lot. This is BS.

Won't anyone try GPS NMEA MONITOR App and see if the data sentences are correct? If the GPS chipset is putting out the correct Lat/Lon, then you can fiddle and fiddle what Captivate does with the information

Has anyone tried to contact Samsung about the issue yet? I tried yesterday and was on hold for an hour and half and then my call dropped. I'm joint to try again today.

SkyHook isn't a "feature" persay, it's a corporation: http://www.skyhookwireless.com/
Same one Apple uses. Not sure exactly how it works but they do wardrive and use WiFi and triangulation to pick up your position as well, so leaving that OFF will perhaps be better for calibrating your GPS settings, but you certainly want it back ON when in normal use.

TexUs said:
SkyHook isn't a "feature" persay, it's a corporation: http://www.skyhookwireless.com/
Same one Apple uses. Not sure exactly how it works but they do wardrive and use WiFi and triangulation to pick up your position as well, so leaving that OFF will perhaps be better for calibrating your GPS settings, but you certainly want it back ON when in normal use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What kind of aGPS does the Nexus One use? I tried to dial the code and it didn't bring up the same menu on the Nexus (it may be different). My Nexus is great at figuring out where I am without a GPS signal.

I changed all my settings last night and it seemed to fix the issue. I was getting a lock within 10 seconds or less. Now I cannot get a lock with the exact same settings and reboot. Has anyone contacted Samsung over this? Anyone get an answer from them? I love this phone but the GPS issue sucks.

Every time I try one of these new fixes it seems to work but then when I go somewher else it is broken again they need to fix this asap. I use that feature a lot

superscientific said:
I changed all my settings last night and it seemed to fix the issue. I was getting a lock within 10 seconds or less. Now I cannot get a lock with the exact same settings and reboot. Has anyone contacted Samsung over this? Anyone get an answer from them? I love this phone but the GPS issue sucks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just got off the phone with Samsung galaxy s support. They knew nothing!!!!!! Said I was the first one to call with the issue.
I'm thinking about returning the phone... GPS is the most important part of a smartphone to me... I'm very disappointed

Jreitnauer7 said:
I just got off the phone with Samsung galaxy s support. They knew nothing!!!!!! Said I was the first one to call with the issue.
I'm thinking about returning the phone... GPS is the most important part of a smartphone to me... I'm very disappointed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know about most important but I agree, it's very important. This HAS to be fixed

Jreitnauer7 said:
I just got off the phone with Samsung galaxy s support. They knew nothing!!!!!! Said I was the first one to call with the issue.
I'm thinking about returning the phone... GPS is the most important part of a smartphone to me... I'm very disappointed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't give up hope, i'm sure that guy doesnt know anything. Engadget and a few sites are aware of the issue and i'm sure Samsung took notice. i'm sure a firmware fix is in the works.

Location
I have tried all the settings. And I don't really notice any difference. I live in the heart of Manhattan, NY., so I am sure roaming around int he concrete jungle trying to get a lock surely has a lot to do with my GPS issue. I do however, get a lock in every setting that has been written up in this forum, and other forums. The difference to me is hardly any, since it always takes many minutes for me to get a lock. I never have used any other GPS device since living here in the city, so I would like to ask other who live in a large city if it is taking them several minutes as well? Because it seems as though people are saying it is taking them only seconds to lock on. Hmmm.....

Best GPS setting - lock in 5 seconds

These settings work the best for me so far. I live in new york and i get a lock in 5 seconds flat!
1. Navigate to Settings > Location & Security and uncheck the box next to "Use Wireless Networks".
2. Go to the phone's dialer and enter the number *#*#1472365#*#* then press send to access the phones LBSTestMode menu.
3. In the LBSTestMode menu, press “Application Settings” and change “Operation Mode” to “MS Assisted.” & turn "ON" skyhook
4. Navigate to the “SUP/LCP Settings” and the change the SERVER & PORT to supl.google.com and port 7262
5. Make sure the settings are saved and reboot your phone.
6. Navigate back to Settings > Location & Security and check the box next to “Use Wireless Networks.”

Tried it. So, question: Should I leave the Wireless networks on generally? For things like geotagging pictures, weather updates, etc, and then turn on GPS Satellites in the event I want to use navigation? In that case should I turn off Use Wireless Networks or just leave it on? Any ideas on those things?
I'm in a basement apartment, so GPS testing and such is pretty much a moot point in here, but I do want to mention that I made the changes you suggested, rebooted my phone and went to maps and it picked me up on there instantly. This is without GPS satellites checked and using the wireless networks. This seems to be already a huge improvement because yesterday I was standing outside for 10 minutes with 8-9 satellites in view and google maps couldn't find my location.

awsome... glad it helped... i keep Wireless networks on and i get a lock in 5 seconds flat... try it both ways and see what works for you... but these are by far the fastest and the best settings...

I live in West Tennessee, I tried these settings about 15 minutes ago and I have yet to get a lock.

I tried this and it worked. I generally don't have my WIFI on, so i turned it on and went outside. had a lock within 5 seconds (i was connected to my home wifi).

u guys the use wireless networks uses things like wifi and ur wireless provider so ofcourse it be faster

STOP telling people to use MS assisted. That only helps while standing still. For moving it is worthless. Use MS based instead.

there's already a thread for this....
i didnt know about ms assisted/based, do you have a link with more info on that?

if that is true... then when ur in LBStestmode... and you are doing a get position test... why does it show my speed? i have tried it in my car and also while walking... gives accurate speed

Speed on the menu isnt a very good measure. Use a GPS app and get in a car and you will see it keeps losing track of you (jumping all over the place or losing fix)
Here is info from verizon:
http://www.vzwdevelopers.com/aims/public/menu/lbs/LBSFAQ.jsp#GenQues10
There is a sticky already and this thread is redundant.

This is a placebo fix. It doesn't do anything. Stop making threads about this people. There are already plenty and it doesn't work.

dsjr2006 said:
This is a placebo fix. It doesn't do anything. Stop making threads about this people. There are already plenty and it doesn't work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree. I didn't have any issues to begin with but I applied this "fix" just to see if it would make a difference and my GPS went to CRAP! I restored default settings and am back to getting a fix in about 20 seconds.

Optimal GPS setting AFTER update

I would like to start a thread to discuss what is the optimal GPS setting for the Captivate after installing the update. From what I can see, the update didn't change my LbsTestMode setting at all. My GPS is now working pretty well, still can't compare to the HTC Aria I had before but acceptable. I wonder if we can further tweak the GPS setting to make it work better.

the only change i seen was if you check auto config it takes you back to server port 7275 and changes the server to a new one.

yesterday there was a thread started about those who got the update successful, and the guy did a test of his gps with screen shot. A) how do you track your route, B) how do you take a screen shot?
it looked like he was using the maps app but i looked all over it for a way to track my route!? thanks..

chasesavestheday said:
yesterday there was a thread started about those who got the update successful, and the guy did a test of his gps with screen shot. A) how do you track your route, B) how do you take a screen shot?
it looked like he was using the maps app but i looked all over it for a way to track my route!? thanks..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats my tracks from the market

smokestack76 said:
Thats my tracks from the market
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
can you screenshot with it?

saint168 said:
I would like to start a thread to discuss what is the optimal GPS setting for the Captivate after installing the update. From what I can see, the update didn't change my LbsTestMode setting at all. My GPS is now working pretty well, still can't compare to the HTC Aria I had before but acceptable. I wonder if we can further tweak the GPS setting to make it work better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems that most people who had messed with the GPS settings before the update are not getting optimal GPS performance after the update (This is true even if they change the GPS settings to stock original that shipped with the update).

So moral of the story is to change GPS settings to stock before you update....?

JvKintheUSA said:
So moral of the story is to change GPS settings to stock before you update....?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would guess so... unless there are few phones that Samsung shipped with a hardware defect.
Am taking my phone to AT&T today.

Can somebody with successful upgrade and with working GPS to publish their GPS current settings?

joedoe said:
Can somebody with successful upgrade and with working GPS to publish their GPS current settings?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So far, only one user: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=8291779&postcount=419

My GPS doesn't work at all for some reason. I don't know if I have a totally defective phone or the update didn't have anything at all in it that fixed the GPS. I'm ready to just give up on this phone having a working GPS.

galaxyjeff said:
My GPS doesn't work at all for some reason.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you change your GPS settings prior to the update? If yes, welcome to the "group"

My GPS is definitely working better after the update. It used to take 30 second - 5 minutes to get a fix. So far I have been able to get a GPS fix within 15 seconds.
My settings are:
Tracking
S/W Test
MS Based
Cold Start
GPS Plus On
Dynamic Accuracy On
Accuracy 50
SkyHook On
PC Tool Off
supl.google.com
Port 7276
Secure Socket Off
AGPS Supl
As far as tracking my position with driving, it's not perfect but acceptable. At time the GPS would put me on the local street next to the freeway but not too often. It takes about 30 sec to 1 minute to locate me while indoor so I have no problem doing my FourSquares checkins.

jaimingandhi said:
It seems that most people who had messed with the GPS settings before the update are not getting optimal GPS performance after the update (This is true even if they change the GPS settings to stock original that shipped with the update).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, I never touched my GPS settings prior to the update, and I get crappy tracks. I had a Captivate which I changed the settings on, but then I ended up exchanging it for a new one a couple days before the update, and left it exactly as I found it, and GPS is spotty as hell.

First of all, I'd like to thank you for posting this thread, it's exactly what I have been looking for. The other threads keep getting hi-jacked by people who couldn't get the update. Hey you knew when you rooted you wouldn't be able to get OTA updates, get over it and wait till someone figures it out.
Back on topic, my GPS is definitely better. I did change my settings before the update in LbsTestMode to the recommended settings. My gps locked quicker, but it was constantly losing the lock. So i used the shortcut method to go into LbsTestMode and changed back to stock settings. It was like the phone was set to lock at exactly 30 seconds, 30 tests with an average of a little under 30 seconds.
The accuracy was a little worse, 50m compared to 15m. But it was also losing the lock quickly, so I changed the spirent setting to supl.google.com. Now i lock between 10 and 15 seconds and it stays locked. My settings:
s/w test
standalone
hot start
gps plus- on
dynamic acc. - on
accuracy- 50
skyhook- on
use pc tool- off
custom config
7276
secure socket- off
agps- supl

So maybe the answer in the end, sad to say, is to buy an aftermarket gps device with bluetooth integration and bypass the built-in gps altogether.

I've been messing with the gps all day and cannot get a lock at all. Not even for a second. Messed with my gps settings before the update.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App

Two months in and I've seen hundreds of threads about the GPS on the captivate, The GPS its broken, no good, damage. Lets get over it and move on. We [email protected]$k BTW new update its a lil better but still sucks. My nexus one located me with no problem spot on. Change your phone why u can. I wish I was under the 30 day return policy.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA App

The only settings I changed were the server before the update. I checked the settings after the update and I had Server as spl.google.com and Standalone in Operation Mode. I switched to autoconfig and those changed to some new server and I changed Operation Mode to MS Based as in jaimingandhi's link. Before I made those changes it took about 3-4 mins to lock on, now it takes about a minute, so not 15 seconds like others have said, but better. Will do more testing later. I count for two as I've got to Captivates at home. But it looks like different settings work for different people.
Edit: Tried again today, lock takes still 3-4 minutes and loses it constantly and there is no accuracy of location whatsoever.

I updated successfully and still had issues with GPS locks until I powered down my phone, removed the battery, sim card, and external sd card, replaced them, and then rebooted the phone. After that I was getting a GPS lock in 15 seconds or less and not constantly dropping signal as long as I had line of sight to the sky (a.k.a. through the windshield).

[Q] GPS takes long to lock in - Galaxy S 4G

I'm aware of the GPS issues with the Samsung Galaxy S. I have the Samsung Galaxy S 4G and I'm wondering if anyone with this phone is experiencing difficulties getting GPS to lock in.
Within approximately 10 minutes, I can see in the GPS Test app about 3 satellites in view. Given enough time, it picks up a few more and eventually locks in.
I've read about the Super GPS fix and the hardware fix but I'm not sure if it would be wise to try it on this phone since the fix was meant for a different model and I don't see any mention of anyone trying it on the GS4G:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=974702
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=974702
Please share your thoughts and experience.

Locks quickly for me without any "special" settings or apps. I even have network-based location always off on my phone since I don't want Google tracking me all the time.
The first lock may be causing you problems if the orbital data hasn't been loaded recently enough.
I have read that GPS Status has helped some by causing the orbital data to be refreshed.

jdjs said:
I'm aware of the GPS issues with the Samsung Galaxy S. I have the Samsung Galaxy S 4G and I'm wondering if anyone with this phone is experiencing difficulties getting GPS to lock in.
Within approximately 10 minutes, I can see in the GPS Test app about 3 satellites in view. Given enough time, it picks up a few more and eventually locks in.
I've read about the Super GPS fix and the hardware fix but I'm not sure if it would be wise to try it on this phone since the fix was meant for a different model and I don't see any mention of anyone trying it on the GS4G:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=974702
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=974702
Please share your thoughts and experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a Samsung Galaxy S 4G and a Vibrant, both are horrible with GPS, they both take forever to get a lock and many times they never get a lock and Samsung is less than helpful. They had my Vibrant for three weeks and sent it back with nothing changed.

mine has never taken more than ~30 seconds to get a lock, even if that 30 seconds sometimes feels like "forever".
this is my first GPS-equipped phone, so i don't have anything to compare it to, but once it's locked, subsequent locks take less time. maybe i just got a "good one"?

I have a Vibrant and an sgs4g. There is no comparison between the two. The sgs4g takes about 5 seconds to lock, The Vibrant I've waited literally 40 mins and still never got a lock. It could be the app. Are you having any trouble with google navigation taking along time or just the gps test app?

I know this wasn't directed at me, but I share the same GPS problems.
This issue occurs in all GPS Apps, including Google Navigation. It simply says acquiring GPS....
The GPS icon flashes like it's working, but its not doing anything.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using XDA Premium App
Looking in the market there's an app called GPS Aids V2...anyone try it? Supposed to help all Galaxy S phones with GPS problems.
Before buying, I want to see if it's worth it......
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Just kidding, I bought the app. So far it seems to be working well; after doing everything my phone was actually picking up FIVE satellites.
Not working right now, though. I contacted the developer for some help, and I'll post his reply/an update soon.

Problem Solved for FREE!
I have the solution and some confusing steps to fix your phone.
Right now as we speak i've followed ALL the steps and have 4 satellites currently showing on the phone while INSIDE my house, in under three minutes time.
Credit to: http://www.samsunggalaxysforum.com/samsung-galaxy-s-how-to/gps-problem/
-Download LauncherPro first.
-Tap and hold on your homescreen, and select shortcut.
-Click Activities.
-Scroll to LbsTestMode.
-Tap the first one, LbsTestMode (with gray saying com.sec.android.app.lbstestmode.LbsTestMode
-Click okay when "edit shortcut" comes up.
-Open the shortcut.
-Tap "SUPL/CP Settings"
-Change the following fields to...
Server -> supl.google.com
Server Port -> 7276
SUPL Secure Socket -> OFF
AGPS Mode -> SUPL
-Click Back (it saves it)
-Reboot your Phone.
-Click Settings, then Location & Security.
-Check "Use Wireless Networks"
-Go to your Launcher, and open LbsTestMode again
-Click "Delete GPS" Data
-Exit the App, and close it with a task killer.
-Open it again, and click "Get Position Test"
-It might take a while for something to show up....but it eventually will. Let it run for about ten minutes straight.
-Close the App again, and you should be good!
Upon Position test....I got:
Accuracy: 41 (meters)
Number of Satellites (INDOORS!): 9
Speed: (m/s)
If you have any questions feel free to reply.
Remember, credit goes to "Bade" (which credited XDA forums anywho) of samsunggalaxyforum.com
Running Copilot Live (GPS Application) and finding location took less than 5 seconds indoors.
To check some info out, I ran GPS Test, and saw "In View" Satellites was 9, and "In Use" was 7. (both were 2, to 0 respectively...previously.)
Running GPS Test (another app, different) came up with my location in less than a second.
I'd call this a success
This guide will also be on my site, here
http://www.cyclopscomputers.com/gs4g

danstheman7 said:
I have the solution and some confusing steps to fix your phone.
Right now as we speak i've followed ALL the steps and have 4 satellites currently showing on the phone while INSIDE my house, in under three minutes time.
Credit to: http://www.samsunggalaxysforum.com/samsung-galaxy-s-how-to/gps-problem/
-Download LauncherPro first.
-Tap and hold on your homescreen, and select shortcut.
-Click Activities.
-Scroll to LbsTestMode.
-Tap the first one, LbsTestMode (with gray saying com.sec.android.app.lbstestmode.LbsTestMode
-Click okay when "edit shortcut" comes up.
-Open the shortcut.
-Tap "SUPL/CP Settings"
-Change the following fields to...
Server -> supl.google.com
Server Port -> 7276
SUPL Secure Socket -> OFF
AGPS Mode -> SUPL
-Click Back (it saves it)
-Reboot your Phone.
-Click Settings, then Location & Security.
-Check "Use Wireless Networks"
-Go to your Launcher, and open LbsTestMode again
-Click "Delete GPS" Data
-Exit the App, and close it with a task killer.
-Open it again, and click "Get Position Test"
-It might take a while for something to show up....but it eventually will. Let it run for about three minutes.
-Close the App again, and you should be good!
Upon Position test....I got:
Accuracy: 41 (meters)
Number of Satellites (INDOORS!): 9
Speed: (m/s)
If you have any questions feel free to reply.
Remember, credit goes to "Bade" (which credited XDA forums anywho) of samsunggalaxyforum.com
Running Copilot Live (GPS Application) and finding location took less than 5 seconds indoors.
To check some info out, I ran GPS Test, and saw "In View" Satellites was 9, and "In Use" was 7. (both were 2, to 0 respectively...previously.)
Running GPS Test (another app, different) came up with my location in less than a second.
I'd call this a success
This guide will also be on my site, here
http://www.cyclopscomputers.com/gs4g
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My GPS was working but I wanted to mess around and check on your findings. I tried to get this to work but it took quite long looking for Satellites.
I noticed when I went in to modify the SUPL settings, it was set to custom config. Made the changes according to your post and like i said before, it took a while so I stopped it. changed the settings to auto conifg and BAM! pulled 13 satellites and locked in within seconds. I do not know if its due to my location but Im working great on Auto Config.
this post is more of an FYI rather than a fix. Hope you guys get yours fixed either way.

fknfocused said:
My GPS was working but I wanted to mess around and check on your findings. I tried to get this to work but it took quite long looking for Satellites.
I noticed when I went in to modify the SUPL settings, it was set to custom config. Made the changes according to your post and like i said before, it took a while so I stopped it. changed the settings to auto conifg and BAM! pulled 13 satellites and locked in within seconds. I do not know if its due to my location but Im working great on Auto Config.
this post is more of an FYI rather than a fix. Hope you guys get yours fixed either way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On the first try, you have to let "Get Position Test" run for around 10 minutes (The 3 minutes on the original post I said might've been a stretch).
Trying Auto Config, I'm getting similar results, though with the custom settings I had more satellite lock-ons.
Custom:
12 SAT, 10 CONNECT
Automatic:
11 SAT, 7 CONNECT
After doing this, the GPS data should stay downloaded on the phone so future satellite searches are MUCH quicker.
Thank you for your input by the way..I appreciate it

My phone has always find satellites and locked within 30 secs. One day I started messing around with settings and came to find out my gps was no longer locking on any satellites at least for 10 mins. I bought the gps aids v2 app from the market then tapped on gps doctor and tapped on "regenerate" (it regenerates the gps data folder) it made my phone boot up. Since then my gps has been workin excellent after that.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using XDA App

ssmokey727 said:
My phone has always find satellites and locked within 30 secs. One day I started messing around with settings and came to find out my gps was no longer locking on any satellites at least for 10 mins. I bought the gps aids v2 app from the market then tapped on gps doctor and tapped on "regenerate" (it regenerates the gps data folder) it made my phone boot up. Since then my gps has been workin excellent after that.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried the same thing, except with that app I couldn't download the XTRA data once resetting the settings :/

Me neither, it couldn't seem to download the xtra data, but just by tapping on gps doctor and "regenerate" and in my case that fixed it. Good luck!
Sent from my SGH-T959V using XDA App

Still no GPS connected until I put in the custom settings.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using XDA Premium App

danstheman7 said:
On the first try, you have to let "Get Position Test" run for around 10 minutes (The 3 minutes on the original post I said might've been a stretch).
Trying Auto Config, I'm getting similar results, though with the custom settings I had more satellite lock-ons.
Custom:
12 SAT, 10 CONNECT
Automatic:
11 SAT, 7 CONNECT
After doing this, the GPS data should stay downloaded on the phone so future satellite searches are MUCH quicker.
Thank you for your input by the way..I appreciate it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If i get bored ill try it again, I live on a tiny island out in the middle of the pacific so GPS is not that big of a deal for me. lol
Thank you for the update. 10 Sat connects is way better than 7

danstheman7 said:
I have the solution and some confusing steps to fix your phone.
Right now as we speak i've followed ALL the steps and have 4 satellites currently showing on the phone while INSIDE my house, in under three minutes time.
Credit to: (url removed)
-Download LauncherPro first.
-Tap and hold on your homescreen, and select shortcut.
-Click Activities.
-Scroll to LbsTestMode.
-Tap the first one, LbsTestMode (with gray saying com.sec.android.app.lbstestmode.LbsTestMode
-Click okay when "edit shortcut" comes up.
-Open the shortcut.
-Tap "SUPL/CP Settings"
-Change the following fields to...
Server -> supl.google.com
Server Port -> 7276
SUPL Secure Socket -> OFF
AGPS Mode -> SUPL
-Click Back (it saves it)
-Reboot your Phone.
-Click Settings, then Location & Security.
-Check "Use Wireless Networks"
-Go to your Launcher, and open LbsTestMode again
-Click "Delete GPS" Data
-Exit the App, and close it with a task killer.
-Open it again, and click "Get Position Test"
-It might take a while for something to show up....but it eventually will. Let it run for about ten minutes straight.
-Close the App again, and you should be good!
Upon Position test....I got:
Accuracy: 41 (meters)
Number of Satellites (INDOORS!): 9
Speed: (m/s)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just came across this when I was freaking out about my crappy GPS lock. Just got this phone to use on Mobilicity and was concerned there was some T-Mo setting that needed to be changed. Anywho, this works wickedly. Thanks a lot.

jdjs said:
I'm aware of the GPS issues with the Samsung Galaxy S. I have the Samsung Galaxy S 4G and I'm wondering if anyone with this phone is experiencing difficulties getting GPS to lock in.
Within approximately 10 minutes, I can see in the GPS Test app about 3 satellites in view. Given enough time, it picks up a few more and eventually locks in.
I've read about the Super GPS fix and the hardware fix but I'm not sure if it would be wise to try it on this phone since the fix was meant for a different model and I don't see any mention of anyone trying it on the GS4G:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=974702
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=974702
Please share your thoughts and experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the gs4g and tried GPS AIDs with some improvement . At the most I would lock onto 7 satellites when it felt like working. I lifted the contact as indicated in the thread above. I then deleted the old GPS data. Then in GPS AID I regenerated the DATA and rebooted. Now i get 12 locks on satellites all with green signal status. Very please. Google maps Locks on with in seconds....

fideli. said:
Just came across this when I was freaking out about my crappy GPS lock. Just got this phone to use on Mobilicity and was concerned there was some T-Mo setting that needed to be changed. Anywho, this works wickedly. Thanks a lot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I spoke too soon. I tried this in Calgary and it was great. I'm now in Toronto and I haven't gotten a lock since I got here on Monday. Tried messing around with the settings again, but just won't lock on. Also tried auto config to grab SUPL info from my provider, but that didn't work either. Still working on it.

Start over and flash krylon deoxed with odin, cwm, bionix. This resolved my 10-15m lock times completely. Now I get a lock in seconds.
Sent from my SGH-T959V using XDA Premium App

Amazing!
I tried this and got accuracy within 3 meters off 10 satellites. Before, it was about 80 meters. Just awesome.

You don't need launcher pro to get into LbsTestMode. In your phone's dialer, just type *#*#3214789650*#*# and it'll go into it.
As for what you suggested about going in and messing with the settings, the first lock takes forever because you've wiped out all the ephemeris data by deleting. It starts looking for satellites for your first lock which takes a while with no ephemeris data. Once it gets a lock, it starts downloading ephemeris data and subsequent locks are significantly faster because your phone now knows where the satellites are.
AGPS helps reduce the lock time a bit (by using mobile location and the SUPL server), but not by a huge amount. The largest reduction in time is due to the fact that you have updated ephemeris data. If your ephemeris data is outdated, your lock times will go up again.
If you don't believe me, try this: get your lock. Then shut off your GPS by using the pull down panel. Leave it off for at least 24-36 hours. Then try to get a lock again. It's going to take a long time again...
I've been tinkering with the GPS on this phone for a while now as well as my GF's Vibrant. There's no doubt in my mind that the SGS4G is improved over the Vibrant, but it's still not great.
I've also pulled apart both of these phones and done the hardware fix by bending the little tab every so slightly. Made a significant difference on the Vibrant which was having a problem maintaining locks and the GPS signal was bouncing all over. No noticeable difference on my phone.
My only conclusion is that the antenna on these things are poorly designed and just take a long time to get an initial lock. Once locked, it's pretty solid. Other phone manufacturers have GPS that work better though. No reason why Samsung couldn't do better.

[TIP] Have you tried MS Based aGPS to help gps lock?

The following seemed to have helped some people on my post on AF so figured I'd post it here as well.
If you're still having GPS issues in an area where you have data coverage, and you've tried changing the gps.conf and possibly updating your libraries as noted in other threads, have you tried changing your GPS settings to MS Based instead of the default of "Standalone"?
From wikipedia:
Mobile Station Based (MSB) - In MSB mode A-GPS operation, the A-GPS device receives ephemeris, reference location, reference time and other optional assistance data from the A-GPS server. With the help of the above data, the A-GPS device receives signals from the visible satellites and calculates the position.
You can do that by doing the following, as noted in my previous post:
My GPS was really taking a long time to lock. Usually 10 minutes or so using GPS Status before it would lock. I tried both just using gps only and then also with wireless network and it still took a long time. So I updated the lbstestmode.apk to use MS Based and the gps.conf file that was mentioned earlier and now I get a lock in GPS Status in about 8 seconds from a cold boot using only the GPS with no wireless network.
If anyone wants to try, I've attached a flashable zip. I took the zip posted by merkuralex earlier in the other gps thread (thanks merkuralex) and added the lbstestmode.apk posted in this SDX thread:
http://forum.sdx-developers.com/index.php?topic=13593.0
The following flashable zips are attached:
lbstestmode_mt_gps_conf.zip - contains the gps.conf file from the other thread + the lbstestmode.apk file.
lbstestmode.zip - contains only the lbstestmode.apk
I'll repost the instructions here (thanks to cornaljoe on sdx for the actual instructions):
Pre-1. Flash the one of the attached zips in CWM first to install the lbstestmode.apk (or just copy the lbstestmode.apk into /system/app/ if you'd rather) and then reboot your phone.
Follow these directions:
1. After boot create a shortcut to Activities -> LbsTestMode -> .LbsTestMode
You may have to install LauncherPro if your launcher doesn't support the activities option under shortcuts. Once installed all launchers will have this option.
My note: Just an FYI, LauncherPro can be downloaded from the Market for free if you don't already have it. Or any other app that allows you to create shortcuts (such as AnyCut I think can also do that)
2. Start LbsTestMode and goto the application settings and set it to MS Based and press back until you exit app.
3. Reboot phone and then use GPS Status under a clear sky until you get a lock.
The main thing to pay attention to is the numbers labeled Error(m) and Fix/Sat in the lower corners of the compass.
Error(m) is the accuracy of your location in meters which shows after you get a lock. Fix/Sat is the number of satellites locked and in view prospectively.
In GPS Status, you can do the following to force aGPS data to download:
3A. Click Menu --> Tools --> Manage A-GPS state --> Reset . This will clear all previous A-GPS data.
3B. Click Menu --> Tools --> Manage A-GPS state --> Download. This will download fresh A-GPS data.
3C. Let GPS Status lock. The first time will take longer as your gps/phone syncs the data.
After you get a lock, you can try powering down your phone and then restarting and see if your lock is faster from a cold start.
This may or may not help you. All I can say is that changing to MS Based helped my gps lock time--I usually have data access where I am.

I have done this, and it works perfect!

Cloudy and raining here today. I will definitely try it. Quick question though, you saying use either zip or use one before the other? I'm not really clear on this.
Also do You have to keep the short cut?

You need to apply the zip first (in CWM) or else you won't have the option to create the shortcut

Wich one, there's 2 zips? I've got it all installed and working. Even though its cloudy, I got instant lock on. I'll test it again tommarow when I go out of town. So far so good though.
Edit: indoors is about 10 sec lock on. Great find OP. Has anyone posted this over at hofo? Another question, will clearing data cache from apps hurt it any?
Sent from my MOTWX435KT using XDA App

Everything went great today. I left my phone off all night so it could get a solid cold start this morning. Its cloudy and rainy again today too. I hit the road this morning and fired the GPS up and it locked in about 15 seconds. Great job on this fix. Also since then it has been instant lock times when i try it.
Sent from my MOTWX435KT using XDA App

tcross8361 said:
Everything went great today. I left my phone off all night so it could get a solid cold start this morning. Its cloudy and rainy again today too. I hit the road this morning and fired the GPS up and it locked in about 15 seconds. Great job on this fix. Also since then it has been instant lock times when i try it.
Sent from my MOTWX435KT using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which ZIP did you use? I used the lbstestmode_mt_gps_conf.zip

idbl_fanatic said:
Which ZIP did you use? I used the lbstestmode_mt_gps_conf.zip
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually I installed them both...lol But that's the last one I used.
I did have a bit of a hiccup on my way home. After lunch I turned my phone off. When I got back on the road 3 hours later I turned it back on and started up Navigation. It took a minute or so on the first lock. I exited out of Navigation and waited 20 minutes or so. I started it up again and it took about 30 seconds. Every time after that it was instant lock. Still very impressed. It was very cloudy and rainy today though. I was getting 1.1 mb down and 500 kb up today also. I would post this over at HoFo for all the nay sayers, but I wouldn't be able to answer any technical questions if anyone had them.
This place is starting to remind me of Seatle, rain every day...lol. I guess Fall is here to stay.

You are wasting your time.
I have traced this code extensively. For those who are unaware the GPS works on RPCs, which are internally processed by the kernel and passed to the chipset.
The chipset on this phone does not know how to handle AGPS requests - XTRA requests to inject the time (NTP time) and the orbital data are flatly refused.
You can set whatever you want, the data will never get to the chip. The Froyo base load intentionally discards such attempts and never sends them. If you load Gingerbread (and build it from source, as I have) and FORCE it to be sent it will return an error every time.
The problem appears to be in the silicon and/or the radio driver itself, which there is no source for. If someone's going to fix this, it's going to be at the radio interface level - not in user space.
My CM7 port is capable of cramming the data in there but it's turned off right now as when I enable it there's a fairly decent chance that the consequence of trying to do so is that the radio locks up and forces a watchdog reset (that is, a reboot on the phone)