Help Intermittent GPS problem on Galaxy W

[has4]

Hi all,

I've had intermittent problems with GPS reception since the beginning. Using the GPS status app, I sometimes get a good fix within 1-2 minutes with good satellite signal strength. Then - without changing my location - suddenly all satellites disappear, even under clear sky and I cannot get another fix. Restart doesn't help.

The GPS function therefore works at random times only. I think it usually stops after 5-10 minutes, when all off the GPS signal goes again.

I read some advice for the Galaxy S to go into a special GPS diagnostics mode by dialling a long code, but this does not do anything on the Galaxy W.

I attributed the problem for a while to GPS status, but even after uninstalling and checking on my GPS reception with "GPS fix", the problem pretty much remains. There seems to be no difference whether WIFI or 3G data is enabled.

Any thoughts or similar experiences?

Thanks

 

[kencham]

On my W I can't make the GPS work without data (which matters as I want to use it abroad for a couple of months and the data is expensive). Normal standalone GPS devices can work without data - is it because they have better hardware? Or am I doing something wrong? I have asked Samsung Support but no reply yet. Doesn't sound as serious as your problem though. Anyone else?

 

[has4]

Kencham,

using packet data (or WIFI) the GPS system can download the A-GPS dataset quicker - which I believe it can also get purely through the GPS receiver. A-GPS makes locking to the satellites faster.

I still think my problem must be some software bug, because sometimes the GPS works fine - then the signal goes to zero in an instant.

If you need a reliable GPS by the way, get a Garmin eTrex - fantastic and cheap.

 

[kencham]

has4,
Okay, thanks. I spoke to the shop where I bought it and they are going to replace the phone. Yeah Garmin eTrex is great but I am trying to minimise weight on a long cycle trip so am experimenting with a smartphone for GPS and camera. What are you going to do next to try to solve your problem?

 

[has4]

Hi,
I've had a suspicion for a while that "GPS status" is causing the trouble. I've uninstalled it - things got a bit better, though still a bit random. The last 48 hours I've had no more problems. Always finding some satellites, although not always strong enough to fix a location.
I contacted Samsung and they sent me instructions how to do a factory reset to check whether it's a software or hardware fault.
Let's see how things go...

 

[dannymur]

Hi,
I've had a suspicion for a while that "GPS status" is causing the trouble. I've uninstalled it - things got a bit better, though still a bit random. The last 48 hours I've had no more problems. Always finding some satellites, although not always strong enough to fix a location.
I contacted Samsung and they sent me instructions how to do a factory reset to check whether it's a software or hardware fault.
Let's see how things go...

Hi, you probably tried this already, but in this post, from Fasterfix XDA thread, there is an interesting small mod to the

/system/etc/gps.conf

Just in case it may help you, NTP server specific settings for your country may be what you require.....

Link to post

 

[has4]

Hi Dannymur,
I've heard about the gps.conf fix, it sounds promising. However, I have not rooted my phone, because "it ain't too broke" at the moment. For a week now my GPS has been doing ok: satellite signal comes on within 10-20 signals - fix outdoors within a minute.
Is there any way to get write access as root to that gps.conf without doing the whole "rooting" business?
Thanks.