yashsingh1/xdaforums huggingface dataset:
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] unknown_owner:
Woooow, slow your roll buddy, I didn't say it wasn't important for everyone, I said it wasn't important to me (notice all the references to "I"). Just wanted to make that correction. I knew what I typed when I said "Just for me" as in it was my take on it, my opinion for me. I know others want to use it the gps but just couldn't fathom a reason. Your reason makes sense to me and that's why I posted the question. I hope we are clear here, that's all.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] original G:
I Agree man. I will never use GPS on a 10 inch tab and this is not a big deal at all to me, but I can understand people wanting every aspect of their $500 table to be working right. I especially understand the few who actually use GPS regularly on a device this size (for work or otherwise) and those who wanted to start doing so with this device.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] unknown_owner:
I would think that this was tested by ASUS during the final build, it might have been a software glitch that may have knocked it out. I;m sure an update would fix it, so I could hold out for a fix.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] stephen44:
sure - no probs - I was really responding to your last line

"Really what is the fuss about the GPS not working?"

just wanted to point out the 'other side' - we are good !

Merry Xmas
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] nxp3:
GPS confirmed not working on mine

I downloaded a satelite testing apps. And I got at most 4 satelite but no fix, sometimes none at all in plain outdoor.

I know some people say they don't care about it not working, but paying 500 for something is a lot of money to just say ok, so what if the gps is not working. Second, there are location sensitive stuff that won't work well without GPS. You won't be able to geotag photos for instance.

I hope this is just a software problem and can be fixed else I will be shipping mine back once asus get their supplies back to normal. Cause I don't want to sit around a month without a tablet.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] jptech:
I agree, this was perhaps a great design choice from a style standpoint.

But from an engineering standpoint, ugh.

The whole thing is in a Faraday cage. I wouldn't expect the GPS to get a lock at all. This is also why the wifi didn't work right. I hope our second rev primes have this fixed.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] jzen:
It was late at night, dark and it was actually my touchpad that was running just as fast as my ipad 2. I did another test and it seems that on my prime it is only one site so far that seems to give it issues (droidgamers.com).

Yeah $500 is a lot to spend on a device that comes shipped with screen bleed and a non-working gps (on pretty much all devices shipped out)... Pretty sure in 2Q 2012 these will be shipping with plastic backs or some kinda plastic logo on the back.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] csmall:
It may be worth pointing out that the most popular tablet in the world doesn't come with gps in its wifi only model. The ipad2 only has gps in the 3g model. Millions of people enjoy great apps and functionality every day without a gps. The prime has one and it may or may not help from time to time... Still seems better than the ipad2
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] j0p3y:
Well. That's exactly what I wanted to point out.

External antenna does cost little (eBay) and will certainly do the trick.

There should be developed some DIY-kit with a mold for drilling a hole in the vackplate for the original antenna and/or a jackplug for an external antenna.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] max1001:
Soooo....anyone know a good bluetooth gps unit at a resonable price?
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] Greatcdn:
Working GPS

The GPS has become a very curious issue for me. I read about how poor it is etc. etc. Personally I just got my Prime in the mail yesterday, did the OTA updates, and it locked inside by the window in ~15 seconds. I then tried this again with no wifi in the same place about 7 hours later and it took about 15 seconds. Could quality control be the main issue here? Maybe with the earlier produced tablets? Comments anyone?
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] faxmonkey:
I thought the same thing after the updates, but the real test is to take the Prime out on a test drive with no wireless. You'll have to cache the maps or download free navigation software. If you are successful, make sure you make a video. :)
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] wernerzero:
What about a MiFi with GPS..? That would be really cool and offer lots of uses.

W.Z.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] max1001:
There are some of us with completely non-functioning GPS. No lock with or without gps indoor/outdoor. I am one of them. I am sure it's loose wiring or something.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] gogol:
People flamed and bashed Samsung for putting plastick back, but there is a clear reason for that.

Even Apple specifically applied patent to have plastic window in the form of logo:

http://www.tuaw.com/2010/12/24/apple-patent-application-puts-antenna-in-the-logo/

Why cant ASUS cut the lost, and come up with similar solution like that? Dont need to be a logo, just some rectangle plastic patch would be enough.

Takes time to redesign?

Learn from Samsung, how many variations Samsung has for their first Android tablet!
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] prayformojo:
This is the issue I'm having. Google maps can place me near my actual location when I'm connected to wifi, but I haven't gotten a single satellite lock since I've had the device with or without wifi. I haven't tried anything fancy like laying in an open field or whatever but I feel I shouldn't have to if things are working as they should. Are you planning to exchange yours in case there is chance of improvement? I'm wondering whether I should consider that option. Advice anyone?
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] clenz:
You should already have one - your smart phone. BT tether it to your prime and it works great.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] robomo:
GPS Driving Navigation comparison done between TF201 and TF101 in airplane mode:

http://xdaforums.com/showpost.php?p=21016695&postcount=100

youtube here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBxTVfA7l3E&feature=youtu.be
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] max1001:
Wait, care to give more details or instruction?
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] jyan_osu:
here ya go.. I just followed this way on my Prime and worked

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d43uq-gzI_I&list=UU1BcDf6iEVccOQC70is_UVA&index=14&feature=plcp
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] j0p3y:
What's the easiest or cheapest way to get functioning gps on this product?

I mean by using for instance external gps module, dongle or otherwise.

I like the looks and functionality of the Prime, but really need gps every once in a while.

Thank you.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] -lukin-:
Has anyone reported a functional GPS on this device? That meaning they can drive in their car and the satellite remains locked. No blue arrow bouncing. No "searching for GPS" nag. I'm trying to decide if I should return the device or send it to ASUS for "re-calibration". If there are working GPS out there, then I'm more likely to roll the dice with the repair.

I did post this question elsewhere and more information about my experience with GPS and communication with ASUS customer service. Check my posts if interested.

Thanks.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] jdbaker82:
Every prime is the same none function practically as a GPS I don't know how you missed the 30 or so threads and 120 pages in this thread but it does not work because of the solid aluminum backing on the prime that severily degrades the GPS signal.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] -lukin-:
I understand what you're saying. Based on my conversation with ASUS this morning, they have no knowledge of the aluminum degrading the signal and believe sending it for repairs will "fix" the GPS issue. I have also seen posts by individual who said their GPS works fine, not to forget there is a poll that shows approximately 30% say it works for them. All I want is the truth, just gimme some truth. Heh. Thanks for replying.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] n11:
May I suggest that you ignore the gps polls and many of the messages about it. Many folks start up their TF201 and get a gps fix based on wifi. They think everything is ok so they vote that way in a poll. I did that and later found what the real issues were. At that point my poll vote was counted and changing your vote is not allowed.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] nxp3:
I see you post in the gamestop thread, did you or were you able to return it to gamestop?
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] n11:
I haven't tried yet. I'm waiting for a response from Asus.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] sdelliott31:
Why arnt more people that get a lock or not getting a lock go for a walk or drive and then posting their results even if it's not recorded? There are 1128 posts and seemingly only a hand for that tell of driving or moving around with it. I'm pretty sure most everyone will get a lock, but how does it track?
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] shinzz:
What sort of response are you waiting for from Asus? Btw, I was finally able to return mine to Gamestop...
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] n11:
I've asked them to provide authorization for a return. That would avoid any potential issue with GameStop. The problem after all, belongs to Asus, not GameStop. But, in the end, I expect GameStop to do the right thing.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] Shocky0:
With perfect visibility of the sky mine can get a GPS lock outdoors without WIFI (using GPS Test).

At 7,500 ft cruising at 155 knots ground speed, I am not able to maintain a lock with the TF201. My wife's TF101 is able to hold a lock and track just fine.

I'm very disappointed. GPS was listed on the spec sheet and a highly sought after feature by myself. I loved my ex-TF101.

It seems that the GPS unit needs a perfectly clear view of the sky, inside of a car or airplane seems to block the signal entirely. I layed it on the sunvisor for about 15 minutes and it would get a lock but lose it the instant I picked up the unit to look at the map.

Ugh.. External GPS support in Android is non-existent and you have to use extra apps and mock locations.

Grrr.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] etm250r:
when I open maps or gps status my gps icon shows up but doesn't even blink as it should if it were searching. haven't seen a birdy yet...
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] nxp3:
How did you go about doing that...just try different people?
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] shinzz:
Checked multiple stores & different days. Some are strict with their policy and some just aren't.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] g0t0:
Got an email today from ASUS basically saying they can't reproduce my issue. I until tomorrow to further explain or they'll send it back. They probably huts agps'd it. Going to call them tomorrow and have them use gps apps from the market to see if they can find sat's. Then they need to let me know which one they used to find them.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] arn.yong:
Best way for ASUS to clean this problem up...

Well, I think the best thing that ASUS can do now for the people with the new transformer prime tablets is to make a replacement plastic cover for the back of the transformer prime, and then allowing people who bought the tablet to optionally change their tablet's back plates to plastic for better GPS connection (with the sacrifice of the ruggedness that aluminum would give, of course, but i think few would care if it would ensure better performance of this otherwise excellent tablet) :)
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] gabsi55:
I have to ask now if there is any possibility for an external gps receiever?

The only thing in this thread i found was the one to tether GPS signal from an smartphone.

I think about an external bluetooth GPS receiever or something. (Would be better for my use anyway)

tia
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] Lock-N-Load:
There are many references buried around here to people using things like the pharos igps-500 external GPS receiver
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] liderbug:
Teardown

http://androidcommunity.com/asus-transformer-prime-teardown-details-gps-issue-20120104/
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] Danny-B-:
What makes a good GPS Antenna ? I mean .. arent they able to make an accessory that will plug into the dock connector etc (headphone socket) and redirect the ariel to that instead of the internal wiring ??

reason i ask is that for some phones, they use the headphone wiring to recieve the signals for FM radio etc ... surely they can do similar for GPS ?

Obviously bundling this accessory with the prime ...

Sh1t ... should i patent this .. Lol
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] nxp3:
On a windows system you buy a piece of hardware it comes with a driver. A company would not have a reason to make it if it's not widely used, they wouldn't make any money. With a lot of tablets that don't even have standard jacks such as usb...they wouldn't sell many at all and wouldn't be worth producing it. for phone to get fm it was prewired to headphone already....the GPS isn't wired to the headphones. And you wouldn't be using a headphone while using GPS anyway so that doesn't make sense while you always need a headphone if you want to listen to fm on the phone anyway.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] Nomad 666:
just a thought

Someone (not me) will eventually cut a hole in the Ali case to help the WIFI & GPS. Then fit an aftermarket protective cover to the entire back. The carbon fiber ones look nice.

Then post exactly where to cut so other brave souls can try.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] Sokonomi:
That brave soul aint gonna be me! :p

What you should do if it works, is go and beat the asus engineers over the head with it. :rolleyes:
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] MK17:
Has there been anyone officially confirm better reception with the cover removed? I have searched a lot and most people point blame at it (rightfully so) but I haven't seen any conclusive tests.

Don't get me wrong, I do believe it, but it would be nice to know how much better. I wouldn't be against drilling some small holes in the case to look like speaker ports if it meant a night and day difference.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] SamsungVibrant:
AnandTech report

Yikes good thing I read this AndroidPolice report where they talk about AnandTech's findings. I almost ordered the Prime before I had seen this.

I'm sure you guys have read it already, but for those who haven't here are the links.

http://www.anandtech.com/show/5285/asus-eee-pad-transformer-prime-gps-issue-explained

http://www.androidpolice.com/2012/0...-why-it-cant-be-fixed-with-a-software-update/

Basically as you all know the all Aluminum back does not allow GPS/WiFi signal to penetrate fully and reach the antenna.

I think the most simple solution is to design a new back with a Plastic "Asus" logo, and place the Antenna behind the plastic logo where signal can penetrate. Do a warranty fix for all the customers and just replace the back. Should be a simple fix.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] tnimk:
My gps does not lock onto any satellites at all. Inside and outside. Not even a blip.

For those that have made some changes to the gpsconfig, were you able to get any (even minor improvements) or was it completely just dead?
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] buxtahuda:
Well, I'm still more than willing to do physical modifications to all my possessions ^.^ I've already started looking into this, but have ultimately decided against it. It seems a level of precision I know I don't have the tools for would be needed to create a proper RF window. It's also my understanding that the Tegra 3 processor is likely the largest source of interference with the aluminum casing just compounding the issue.

http://xdaforums.com/showthread.php?t=1431233

If I remember correctly, properly modifying the gpsconfig does do a world of help; however, that is because it then downloads information ahead of time to help pinpoint the satellites. It's just like having the WiFi on while you're using the GPS, you're just getting the WiFi part out of the way in adavance. If you move too far while there's no lock and you've no WiFi to update sat info with, then it will lose accuracy and eventually the signal altogether.

Again, this is just my "understanding" of the matter.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] tnimk:
Thanks, I was wondering if there was even a chance or if it was just completely dead. I'm hoping after ICS comes out things might work a bit better.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] BarryH_GEG:
This will be proven soon enough with the plastic-back Teg3 Lenovo and Acer tablets that are going in to production this month. I'd bet you a paycheck that neither have GPS issues and perform as well as their predecessors. Shielding isn't a new concept. Even if the Teg3 (and it's still a big if) creates more interference than other SoCs, that can (and should) be compensated for in design. And Nvidia would be nuts to create a SoC that was so sensitive to placement in devices that have so little real estate to work with. Manufacturers would simply choose a different SoC that was more flexible in order to achieve their design and performance goals. Nvidia's first with a high-performance chip and, just like Teg2, they won't be the last. So I doubt Teg3 is contributing to the Prime's poor GPS performance but, if it is, it's at best a secondary problem.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] Krisfone:
Asus seems to have tacitly acknowledged problem - new "upmarket" version CES!!

Asus has "released" a new and tweaked version of ATP at CES yesterday. It has a plastic strip along the top to improve wifi and GPS and will have 1920 X 1080 resolution at a $100 premium. Dodgy and dubious way to acknowledge existing problem with the "new" ATP, which is still on pre-order and yet to be shipped out to lots of customers and they go and release a new model with fixes to the reported problems. Reminds me of Apple's iphone "antenna gate", not impressed with either of them. Asus could of course advise original ATP customers to hold the ATP in a certain way to improve wifi and GPS reception!!!!!!
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] nunyabiz:
It has not been "released", its a demo unit that isnt expected until Q2 (May/June)
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] gogol:
By that time, we might hear "Google Nexus Tablet" :)

During IO of course ...
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] fuzzer:
I'm unhappy with the GPS not working for navigation, however it does work for location, so apps relying on that will work fine...Still not sure if i'll keep it, gotta wait for my bluetooth headset to test the wifi/blutooth issue....

For navigation i got these, and they work great...

bluetooth gps receiver:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000HZI2YY?ie=UTF8&seller=A1K4QMY6EFGAY0&sn=GreaTech33

Bluetooth GPS on prime:

http://www.androidpit.com/en/android/market/apps/app/googoo.android.btgps/Bluetooth-GPS
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] doeboy711:
There is a almost 500 post thread about this. Check it out here
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] Krisfone:
Sorry, you are quite right

Yes, I should have said Asus has "announced" a new model upmarket version of ATP. The early release of ICS is good but sounds like Asus trying to close the gate after the horse has bolted, in an effort to mollify original ATP customers!
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] prayformojo:
GPS Post-ICS

Has anyone done any rigorous comparison of GPS performance since the ICS update?

My testing is not close to what I would call rigorous, but I wanted to share my observations and see if anyone has feedback:

I updated to ICS last night and used the GPS status app to test performance. Couldn't see or lock a single satellite indoors still (even with wifi), but I stepped out on my patio and was able to lock 8-9 with and without wifi in under 30 sec.

Today before I left for work I pulled up google maps in my driveway and it placed me exactly. I drove a couple of blocks and then pulled over. My position on the map had not changed from my driveway. I checked GPS status and after about 20 sec I was locked on about 5 satellites (though the number kept jumping around - is that normal?), but my position in google maps was still not updating.

Does anyone know why google maps is not able to place me even when satellites are locked? Does the lock need to be in place a certain amount of time before it can place me?

Anyway, my conclusion is that ICS has not yet made GPS functional in the way I was hoping, but I'm now hoping that further improvement is possible. Thoughts?
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] nxp3:
You may be able tos ee satelites but did you actually get a "fix" Getting your house right is probably when you were connected through wifi and once you drove off it had no signal to get your location that's why the google maps was unable to update. Yours is just as broke as ever. No software is going to fix a hardware issue.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] Krisfone:
QC issues as well?

Couldn't agree more. I had 2 ATP's on pre-order but have cancelled both. There seems to be a lot of variability in product reviews on Amazon and other sites. While GPS alone is not a deal breaker, wifi issues put me off. Many people seem to have no issues with wifi or GPS but others mention that wifi connection drops completely when using bluetooth.

Looks like both metal back and poor quality control are at play here with Asus rushing to be first with quad core and rolling out what has turned out to be a beta for customers to test instead of pre-launch testing. To add insult to injury, they play the Apple card and take GPS off the specs once the issue came to light and "announce" a revised model even before the current model is shipping!

Matter of principle, however good they may be at product support after purchase and with OTA updates, this has not served to enhance their reputation. Customer loyalty is not built on such shaky foundations.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] BarryH_GEG:
At this point guys, the Prime doesn't have GPS. The removal of the toggle in the control panel in ICS is sort of Asus' last comment on the issue. So while it still has a GPS chip, it's no longer a supported feature. It's not on Asus' website(s) and future purchasers of an ICS version won't even see it. If everyone wants to keep pursuing it and trying to make it work it's nothing more than a garage project. The manufacturer has spoken.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] tshoulihane:
I don't know about your little world, but mine does have GPS.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] BarryH_GEG:
And how's that GPS performance working out for you? Slap CoPilot on that bad boy and get in your car and take it for a spin. You have a GPS chip. You don't have working GPS. And even though the devs here are brilliant, they can't use s/w to overcome a h/w problem.
[Asus  Eee Pad Transformer Prime] prayformojo:
I was definitely able to get a fix even without wifi in my car. Or at least the screen read "5/7" at the bottom where I believe 5 is the fixed number and 7 is the number detected (in GPS Status app) -- I can take a screenshot later if necessary. I just don't understand why this fix didn't lead to an accurate repositioning of my location in Google Maps, though.

I'm pretty sure others in this thread have reported something similar and suggested that perhaps there is a software issue preventing the GPS from sending the appropriate data to the navigation software (I have no idea what I'm talking about here but this was my interpretation of what I read). Has this theory been dismissed?