# IEC-61108-7 SBAS Standard for Shipborne Receivers: Preliminary Testing Validation Activities +
###### Abstract  
The IEC 61108-7 standard focuses on the minimum performance required by shipborne receivers using satellite-based augmentation system (SBAS) L1 signals to be compliant with the performance specified in IMO Resolution A.1046(27). Apart from the minimum performance requirements, the standard specifies the testing methods and a full set of scenarios with their pass/fail criteria. To verify the feasibility of the tests defined in the standard, a comprehensive test campaign was carried out in a joint effort by the European Satellite Services Provider (ESSP) and the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) under the coordination of the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA). This paper presents an assessment of the validity and appropriateness of the test scenarios and the minimum performance requirements specified in the IEC-61108-7 standard. To conduct the campaign, dedicated setups were designed and implemented at the JRC and ESSP laboratories, where live and simulated GPS+SBAS signals were used. For the analysis, all the test cases (TCs) described in the standard were implemented, and two commercial devices were tested. From the results, it emerged that all the TCs were properly designed and implemented, thereby confirming the feasibility of the tests defined in IEC 61108-7. SBAS; maritime; standardization; receivers; testing +
Footnote †: Academic Editor: [PERSON]  
including the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). One of the key IMO standards is the performance standard for shipborne GNSS receiver equipment, detailed in Resolution A.1046(27) [2]. The IMO is responsible for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention [3], which requires all passenger ships and most types of cargo ship to be equipped with GNSS equipment to aid in search and rescue operations and to improve overall maritime safety. Although the resolution was approved in 2011, it is important to note that the IMO periodically reviews and updates its standards and resolutions to reflect technological advancements and changing needs. However, the fundamental requirements outlined in A.1046(27) for accuracy, integrity, continuity, and availability are principles that remain relevant in the context of modern radio-navigation systems. The IEC has a pivotal role in the standardization of maritime GNSS technology through its specifications for maritime navigation and radio-communication equipment and systems. The IEC 61108 series is composed of several parts, each covering specific aspects and functionalities of GNSS receivers, ensuring that they meet stringent criteria for use in navigational equipment on board ships of all sizes and classes. These standards address the needs of mariners for precision, reliability, and continuity of service, even under adverse conditions. IEC 61108-1 [4] focuses on GPS receiver equipment, setting the minimum performance standards and methods of testing for GPS-based navigation. IEC 61108-2 [5] (for GLONASS), IEC 61108-3 [6] (Galileo), IEC 61108-4 [7] (DGNSS), IEC 61108-5 [8] (BeiDou), and IEC 61108-6 [9] (IRNSS) introduce the different GNSSs for multi-constellation GNSS receivers for enhanced redundancy and precision. Most commercial maritime GNSS receiver models are SBAS-compatible but exhibit differences in their performance since they are not certified according to any specific test standard. In [10], IALA (International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities) provides a description of all the elements of SBAS relevant to maritime administration (direct reception of SBAS signal in space (SiS) on board the vessels). This includes the reference requirements, the user equipment, the description of the service, and the operational scheme. IEC 61180-7 [11] was published on 3 May 2024.