Kongsberg DPS112 – Differential GPS Position Reference for DP and Survey Operations

The Kongsberg DPS112 is a proven DGPS position reference designed for dynamic positioning systems and professional marine navigation. In many cases it serves as a primary or redundant position input to K-Pos and third‑party DP controllers, delivering stable, low‑noise position data with DGPS corrections. One thing I appreciate is how straightforward it is to integrate: standard NMEA outputs, flexible serial interfaces, and robust marine‑grade power make it a practical choice for refits as well as newbuilds.

From my experience, the DPS112 is typically used where dependable position availability matters—offshore support vessels, dredging, cable lay, and hydrographic support—especially when you want a mature, field‑tested sensor that crews already know how to operate.

Our Order Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Delivery: 1 week if in stock; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment before delivery
• Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• DGPS accuracy for DP – Uses differential corrections to stabilize position, typically reducing drift and improving repeatability for station‑keeping.
• Marine‑grade interfaces – Standard NMEA 0183 outputs over RS‑422/RS‑232 make it easy to feed DP, ECDIS, survey PCs, and logging systems.
• Beacon correction capability – Supports RTCM SC‑104 differential input (via integrated or external beacon source), which many operators still prefer for coastal operations.
• Event/PPS synchronization – Timing outputs simplify correlation with external sensors or data loggers in multi‑sensor setups.
• Rack/console installation – Typically fits a 19‑inch rack for clean bridge or instrument room integration.
• Field‑proven reliability – The DPS family has long service history; crews tend to find menus and alarms familiar, which helps reduce training friction.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

You might notice the DPS112 shows up on vessels that demand reliable, low‑latency position: offshore support vessels (DP Classed), dredgers, cable/pipe lay, buoy tenders, and multi‑cat workboats. It also works well as a survey backup feed to acquisition laptops, helping crews maintain position logging when primary survey GNSS is out for maintenance.

Advantages & Value

• Integration with DP – Straight into K-Pos and most third‑party DP racks via NMEA 0183; no exotic gateways required in most cases.
• Operational continuity – Mature firmware and predictable alarms keep bridge teams confident; that tends to reduce troubleshooting time offshore.
• Lifecycle economy – Spare parts and accessories are widely supported; compared to ripping and replacing, this often minimizes downtime and engineering hours.
• Compatibility – Plays nicely with existing antenna cabling, beacon receivers, and serial network topologies commonly found on legacy bridges.
• Supportable – Clear documentation and familiar menu structure; crews can perform basic checks without calling in a specialist every time.

Installation & Maintenance

• Mounting – Install in a 19″ rack or console within a dry, ventilated bridge or instrument room. Allow rear clearance for cabling and service.
• Power & grounding – 24 VDC feed with proper marine bonding; use shielded power pairs and connect shields at a single ground point to limit noise.
• Antenna siting – GPS and MF beacon antennas need an unobstructed view; keep clear of radar beams and high‑power VHF whips. Use quality coax with proper lightning protection.
• Wiring – RS‑422 NMEA to DP controller, ECDIS, or logging PC. Label talker IDs and baud rates; many issues are simply mismatched serial settings.
• Routine checks – Verify DGPS status and RTCM reception before critical ops; review SNR and alarm logs weekly. Clean connectors and check for water ingress around mast bases.
• Firmware and calibration – Keep firmware at a stable, vendor‑recommended version; note any change to NMEA sentence configuration after updates.

Quality & Certifications

• CE marked; typically conforms to IEC 60945 (marine navigation and radiocommunication equipment)
• Commonly supplied with IACS class type approvals (e.g., DNV, ABS, LR) for use as a DP position reference
• RoHS compliance where applicable
• Standard warranty: 12 months (365 days)

Recommended Supporting Components

• GPS L1 marine antenna – Active antenna with low-noise amplifier; mast‑top mount with lightning arrestor.
• MF beacon antenna/receiver – For coastal DGPS corrections where beacon coverage is available; improves consistency during slow drift operations.
• NMEA distribution unit – For feeding multiple consumers (DP, ECDIS, VDR, survey PC) without overloading a single port.
• Marine 24 VDC UPS – Keeps the receiver alive during generator changeovers and short power dips.