NovAtel (Hexagon)
Overview
NovAtel is a Canadian-based precision positioning technology company that specializes in satellite navigation and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) solutions for professional surveying, construction, agriculture, and autonomous applications. Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, NovAtel has established itself as a leading provider of high-precision positioning equipment and software. The company was acquired by Hexagon AB in 2010 and now operates as the Positioning Intelligence division within Hexagon's Geospatial enterprise.
Company History and Development
NovAtel was founded in 1978 in Calgary, Alberta, during the early days of satellite navigation technology. The company initially focused on research and development in GPS positioning, recognizing the potential of satellite-based navigation systems for professional applications. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, NovAtel established itself as an innovator in GNSS receiver design and manufacturing.
The company's early breakthroughs included pioneering work in real-time kinematic (RTK) GPS positioning, which significantly improved accuracy and reduced convergence time compared to traditional post-processing methods. This technological advancement made GNSS solutions more practical for real-time surveying and construction applications.
In 2000, NovAtel went public on the NASDAQ stock exchange, reflecting its growing significance in the positioning technology market. The company continued to innovate throughout the 2000s, expanding its product portfolio and geographic presence.
The acquisition by Hexagon AB in 2010 marked a significant milestone. Hexagon, a Swedish multinational company specializing in digital solutions and positioning intelligence, integrated NovAtel's technologies into its broader ecosystem of surveying, construction, and agricultural solutions. This acquisition strengthened NovAtel's market position and expanded its capabilities through access to Hexagon's extensive software platforms and global distribution network.
Core Technologies
NovAtel's technological foundation rests on several key competencies:
GNSS Receiver Architecture
NovAtel has developed proprietary GNSS receiver technology capable of processing signals from multiple satellite constellations simultaneously. Modern NovAtel receivers track GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, and QZSS signals, providing redundancy and improved accuracy in challenging environments such as urban canyons and forests where signal obstruction is common.
Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) Positioning
RTK positioning represents one of NovAtel's signature technologies. By utilizing a base station and rover configuration with real-time corrections transmitted via radio or cellular networks, RTK systems achieve centimeter-level accuracy. NovAtel's RTK algorithms employ advanced techniques for integer ambiguity resolution, enabling rapid convergence to precise positions.
Post-Processing Software
NovAtel provides sophisticated post-processing software that allows surveyors to achieve high-precision results even without real-time correction infrastructure. This capability is valuable for projects in remote areas or situations where real-time connectivity is unavailable.
Inertial Measurement Integration
Many NovAtel systems incorporate inertial measurement units (IMUs) that work in conjunction with GNSS receivers. This fusion approach provides positioning solutions that remain accurate during periods of signal loss and enables attitude determination (roll, pitch, and heading), which is critical for surveying and autonomous vehicle applications.
Main Product Lines
Professional GNSS Receivers
NovAtel manufactures a comprehensive range of professional-grade GNSS receivers designed for surveying, mapping, and construction applications. These receivers feature multiple frequency bands, multi-constellation support, and advanced signal processing capabilities that deliver centimeter to millimeter-level accuracy.
The company's product range includes compact single-frequency receivers for cost-sensitive applications and high-end multi-frequency, multi-constellation receivers for demanding professional work requiring maximum accuracy and reliability.
Positioning Boards and Modules
NovAtel produces OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) positioning boards and modules that enable other companies to integrate GNSS and inertial capabilities into their own products. These modules are utilized in various applications from surveying instruments to autonomous vehicles and industrial equipment.
Software Solutions
NovAtel provides software platforms that complement its hardware offerings. These include receiver control software, post-processing applications, and integration tools that enable users to develop custom positioning solutions tailored to specific applications.
Integrated Positioning Systems
The company offers complete integrated systems combining GNSS receivers, inertial sensors, and software for specialized applications such as autonomous vehicle navigation, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) positioning, and machine control for construction and agricultural equipment.
Market Position and Competitive Standing
NovAtel maintains a strong position within the professional GNSS market, particularly in sectors requiring high-precision positioning. The company competes with other major positioning technology providers but distinguishes itself through receiver design expertise, multi-constellation support, and integration with Hexagon's broader ecosystem of surveying and construction software.
The acquisition by Hexagon enhanced NovAtel's market position by providing access to integrated solutions that combine positioning hardware with advanced software platforms for workflow automation and data management.
Global Presence
As part of Hexagon, NovAtel operates through an extensive global distribution network spanning North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and other regions. The company maintains engineering and technical support operations in multiple countries, ensuring responsive customer service across international markets.
NovAtel's products are utilized by surveying firms, construction companies, agricultural operations, and autonomous vehicle manufacturers worldwide. The company continues to invest in research and development to advance positioning technology capabilities and expand its market reach.
Conclusion
NovAtel represents a significant Canadian contribution to precision positioning technology. From its 1978 founding through its integration into Hexagon, the company has maintained a focus on innovation in GNSS technology and positioning solutions for professional applications. Today, NovAtel remains a key player in the global positioning market, serving professionals across surveying, construction, agriculture, and autonomous systems industries.