GPS Offset Left Side 20 metres Initially Despite "Soak"

Today despite clear weather the GPS tracking showed an offset of 15-20 metres to the left of my direction despite soaking for at least 3-4 after GPS acquired signal.

This occurred on both a run and a hike today starting from a similar point and heading in same direction.

First 5 minutes of the run and a hike were both offset to the left by a considerable amount.

Is this just satellite positions or some algorithm?

Members on the Fenix forums have said trying the watch on the other wrist helps, but surely issues occur due to poor signal from obstructions either way.

Top Replies

trux over 5 years ago in reply to Tom +1

Well, the GPS accuracy has its limits, but typically with this type of devices, some 5m are usually easily achieved under typical conditions (clear view on the sky), so the 20m are already indeed a bit…
trux over 5 years ago in reply to trux +1

BTW, just to make sure, is your ephemeris file (EPO) up-to-date?
trux over 5 years ago in reply to Tom +1

Check also the GPS version in Settings » About. Should be 2.60

All Replies

0 3347890 over 4 years ago

Hi, di you ever find a solution to this? Mine did something funny yesterday. It was similarly offset but happened had way through a run. It was a fenix 6s
https://forums.garmin.com/outdoor-recreation/outdoor-recreation/f/fenix-6-series/236526/gps-offset-problem/1122301#1122301

0 Tom over 4 years ago in reply to 3347890

Hi there, for me the issue seems to come and go, usually at the start of an activity.

If I am navigating a route it would show me on the watch being off course and offset by several metres.

Some of it is possibly caused by poor GPS reception and a bad fix on satellites.

Last night I went for a walk and it happened at the start.

Heading out (top red), actual route (blue), returning (bottom red)

I also took my Ambit3 Peak with me, which has the large antenna nub.

Much better track.

It showed in the distances as well, with the Garmin under recording by a significant amount, around 5% shorter.

Instinct

Ambit3