Microchip Releases Major Update to BlueSky™ GNSS Firewall Software to Strengthen Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Protection

Rhea-AI Summary

Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) announced a significant software update for its BlueSky GNSS Firewall, enhancing resilience against GPS vulnerabilities for critical infrastructure systems. The BlueSky GNSS Firewall Software Release 2.0 features real-time analysis capabilities to detect jamming and spoofing, improving GPS signal reception security. Developed following participation in DHS-hosted testing events, this update addresses evolving needs and integrates with the TimePictra management software for monitoring GNSS signals globally. This release is part of a subscription service, vital for maintaining uninterrupted service in key sectors.

Positive

• Enhanced GPS signal protection against jamming and spoofing.
• Real-time analysis improves operational resilience for infrastructure systems.
• Developed in response to industry testing, indicating proactive innovation.
• Integration with TimePictra software allows for comprehensive monitoring.

Negative

• None.

CHANDLER, Arizona, June 23, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Critical infrastructure systems including power utilities, financial services, mobile networks and transportation rely on Global Positioning System (GPS)-delivered timing to ensure ongoing operations. Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) today announced the release of a major software update for its BlueSky^™ GNSS Firewall product, providing a higher level of resiliency against GPS vulnerabilities for systems dependent on GPS signal reception. 

Microchip's BlueSky GNSS Firewall Software Release 2.0 performs real-time analysis to detect jamming and spoofing for protecting reception of the GPS signal and hardening response and recovery to avoid signal disruption. BlueSky GNSS Firewall Software Release 2.0 includes charting and advanced threshold settings of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) observables such as satellites-in-view, carrier-to-noise, position dispersion, phase time deviation and radio frequency (RF) power level to simplify system turn-up and deployment.

BlueSky GNSS Firewall Software Release 2.0 includes improvements developed by Microchip as a result of participation in an industry live-sky testing event hosted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate and open to all providers. Microchip's participation in the DHS-hosted GPS Testing for Critical Infrastructure (GET-CI) events, with scenarios including spoofed signals, has helped the company to identify new solutions to prevent signal disruptions. As a result of 2019 live-sky testing and other input, Microchip developed the Blue Sky GNSS Firewall Software Release 2.0 to address operators' evolving requirements.

As a leader in frequency and time systems, Microchip continuously innovates GPS signal reception security technologies for commercial and military operators similar to how network firewalls protect against virus threats. Updates are essential to defend against rapidly-evolving GNSS disruptions and enable critical infrastructure operators to avoid interruptions of service.

Microchip's BlueSky GNSS Firewall Software Release 2.0 is provided as part of a subscription service and is installed on the BlueSky GNSS Firewall device. When connected to Microchip's TimePictra management software, critical infrastructure operators also can monitor and analyze GNSS signals in cities, across geographic regions, throughout a country and even globally.

Other complementary devices and software in Microchip's suite of GPS systems and services include the TimeProvider^® 4100 Precise Timing Grandmaster with Gateway Clock, SyncServer 600/650 timing and frequency instrument, miniature atomic clock (MAC), Time Cesium and 5071A cesium primary frequency standard.

Availability

Contact your Microchip salesperson for ordering detail. Complete information is at https://www.microsemi.com/salescontacts.

Note: The Microchip name and logo and the Microchip logo are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. BlueSky and TimeProvider are trademarks of Microchip Technology Inc. in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.

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SOURCE Microchip Technology Inc.

FAQ

What is the BlueSky GNSS Firewall Software Release 2.0 by Microchip?

The BlueSky GNSS Firewall Software Release 2.0 is an advanced software update designed to improve GPS signal protection against vulnerabilities such as jamming and spoofing.

How does BlueSky GNSS Firewall improve GPS signal protection?

It provides real-time analysis to detect potential disruptions, enhancing the security and reliability of GPS signals for critical infrastructure.

When was the BlueSky GNSS Firewall Software Release 2.0 announced?

The software update was announced on June 23, 2020.

What are the benefits of the BlueSky GNSS Firewall Software Update?

Benefits include improved resilience against GPS signal vulnerabilities, real-time monitoring capabilities, and proactive development based on industry testing.

Is BlueSky GNSS Firewall Software Release 2.0 part of a subscription service?

Yes, the software is provided as part of a subscription service that can be installed on the BlueSky GNSS Firewall device.