Author: BSW Team
Subject: New ANTEX v1.3 converter


Dear BSW users,

The IGS plans to change the antenna model from relative PCV to
absolute PCV in the near future. The official date of the changes to
the new IGS antenna model is not yet specified in detail (see:
http://igscb.jpl.nasa.gov/mail/igsmail/2005/msg00193.html).


* The new converter

The BSW, Version 5.0, is already prepared for these changes. The only
program that needs to be updated is the tool that converts files from
ANTEX v1.3 to Bernese PCV format. In addition the satellite
information file has to be updated. 

The new converter allows for a variety of new and helpful options
including
- preparation of a completely new Bernese PCV file (relative or 
  absolute) from ANTEX,
- updating of the currently used old Bernese PCV file (containing old 
  satellite antenna names and no radome codes) with information from 
  ANTEX,
- updating of the Bernese PCV file in case of new PCV calibration values,
- conversion of relative Bernese PCV file (with all included antennas) 
  to an absolute Bernese PCV file,
- merging of new or individually calibrated antenna patterns from 
  (relative or absolute) ANTEX to your existing (relative or absolute) 
  Bernese PCV file, and
- adding patterns of antenna radome combinations that are not included 
  in ANTEX to the Bernese PCV file.


* Consistency of phase eccentricity file and satellite information file

If absolute receiver antenna patterns are used, absolute satellite
antenna patterns have to be used, too. Because absolute ANTEX files
contain satellite-specific patterns, the implementation of the new
converter requires the replacement of the satellite information
file. Because satellite antenna offsets are stored in this file (as 
in previous versions), care has to be taken to always use the phase
eccentricity file together with the corresponding satellite information 
file. Note that Version 4.2 is not capable to handle absolute satellite 
antenna patterns.


* Radome codes

Because, according to the new IGS policy, radome codes will be used
consistently for all antennas, the new converter forces the use of 
radome codes. Take your time to adapt your Bernese PCV file and station 
information file accordingly. More information is provided in a detailed 
readme file (see below).


* How to proceed

Note, that it is not necessary to switch to the new satellite
information file before the official change of the antenna model in the
IGS. But performing the switch to the new (relative) files already now 
is a good preparation for the official switch within the IGS.

Some of the users already want to run tests with the new absolute
antenna models. Consistent Bernese phase eccentricity files and
satellite information files are prepared by AIUB and are available at
the anonymous ftp server (see below). Be sure to never mix absolute and 
relative PCV and satellite information files!


* More details

For detailed instructions concerning the ANTEX converter and the new
satellite information files see the readme_antex.txt file available at 
the anonymous ftp server

http://www.aiub.unibe.ch/download/BSWUSER50/GEN


We hope that the new converter helps you to smoothly switch to absolute 
antenna phase patterns. In case of problems or questions do not hesitate 
to contact us. 

Best regards 

The BSW Team