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Managing SPARTN Dynamic Keys for PointPerfect Flex L-band Corrections

Updated

Introduction

To successfully decode PointPerfect Flex L-band corrections received from the NEO-D9S, your F9 module requires SPARTN dynamic keys (UBX-RXM-SPARTNKEY) upon every power-up. These keys are stored in the F9’s RAM layer for security reasons, meaning they are not retained after a power cycle.

To ensure uninterrupted operation without frequent manual intervention, a structured approach is needed to fetch, store, and transmit these keys automatically.

 

Understanding the Dynamic Key Cycle

Each device receives two dynamic keys, both valid for four weeks but with staggered activation times. This setup allows offline operation for 28 to 56 days, depending on the key cycle.

To avoid interruptions in correction services, it is highly recommended to retrieve new keys every 28 days. If additional keys are required beyond the default allocation, contact services-support@u-blox.com for approval.

 

Setting Up Key Management - Overview

Key Management Steps:

  • Fetching Keys:
  • Storing Keys: Securely save them on the local host memory.
  • Converting to Binary & Transmitting Keys:
    • Convert the stored keys into UBX-RXM-SPARTNKEY binary format.
    • Send them over USB, UART, SPI, or I2C to the F9 module at startup.

(Sample script attached: Convert_Keys.py)

For detailed guides and scripts to help with integration, see below.

 

 

1. Fetching & Storing Keys 

Automated Provisioning (ZTP)

If managing multiple devices, use Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP) to automate:

  • Device registration (creating Thing)
  • Fetching dynamic keys and credentials

Refer to the Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP) & PointPerfect Flex ZTP API Script Guide for Automated Device Provisioning and Key retrieval

 

Manual Provisioning for a Single Thing

Log in to your portal and download the JSON file manually under the Location Thing Credentials section.

 

2. Sending Dynamic Keys to the F9 Module (UBX-RXM-SPARTNKEY)

This sample script converts the dynamic keys into a binary UBX-RXM-SPARTNKEY message, which transfers dynamic SPARTN keys to a u-blox receiver.

 

Configuration Requirements

Before running the script, you must edit it to provide the following connection details:

  • Have your *.JSON file ready
  • USB Port:
    • Windows: COM#
    • Linux: /dev/ttyACM0 (or /dev/ttyUSB0, depending on your setup).
  • Baud Rate: Typically 38400 (verify based on your device).

The Python script reads data from the retrieved *JSON file and transmits it to the F9 module via the specified serial port and baud rate.

A sample script is attached

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