qGIS began as demonstator in the forthcoming IP-Multicast service - part of the Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN) 3GPP-based satellite network operating over the Inmarsat-4 satellite constellation. qGIS was the first multicast-aware application to operate independently and without requirement for a multicast server within the Core Network. The Inmarsat IP-Multicast initiative is a European Space Agency project (European Space Agency; Grant Number: ARTES-3 17549/03).

What does qGIS do ?
Exchange location information and related situation awareness details between peers over direct multicast enabled IP networks without need for servers or HQ equipment.

Who uses qGIS ?
qGIS may be used in maritime co-ordination environments; land based location awareness systems and aeronautical tracking.

Is qGIS the same as Blue Force Tacking ?
Only in that both exchange location based information. qGIS is a network-centric solution and accounts for network capabilities, application requirements and communications patterns, and not designed with tactical environments in mind.

What requirements ?
A GPS receiver, a Laptop with XP and access to an IP network. Simulated GPS locations are generated within qGIS if you dont have a GPS receiver.

What IP networks are required ?
qGIS is network independent and will operate over any satellite or terrestrial network.

What is the refresh rate ?
1 second for local observations and immediate for remote observations (in live mode).

Updates ?
Yes, automatic from the MQL server.