What degree of GPS VNAV smoothing tolerances is acceptable?

The acceptable degree of GPS VNAV (Vertical Navigation) smoothing tolerances is typically in the range of 1 to 6 degrees. This range is established to ensure that the vertical navigation provided by GPS systems remains accurate and reliable while filtering out any potential noise or fluctuations that could be caused by various factors, such as environmental conditions or system limitations.

Vertical navigation is particularly critical in aviation and other applications where altitude management is essential. The choice of 1 to 6 degrees allows for a balance between sensitivity and stability, helping to maintain a smooth and reliable flight path. This tolerance ensures that the system can adequately respond to changes in altitude without being overly affected by transient disturbances.

The other ranges provided in the options either fall below or exceed this established tolerance, which may compromise the performance of GPS VNAV systems. A narrower tolerance, like 1 to 3 degrees, might not accommodate necessary adjustments in varying conditions, while a broader tolerance, such as 3 to 8 degrees, could introduce more variability than is acceptable for safe navigation. Thus, the range of 1 to 6 degrees is the most suitable choice for maintaining effective VNAV operations.