Optimeye GPS Performance

The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy, validity, and reliability of Catapult Sports’ OptimEye S5 athlete tracking devices.

Background

Since the release of Catapult’s minimax S4/V4 athlete tracking devices, extensive research has been conducted in the field of utilizing GPS sensors for tracking athletic performance. Research has covered various aspects including validity, reliability, quantification of match demands, load monitoring, performance analysis, correlations with other physiological/performance measures, military efficacy and application, relationships with anthropometric and injury data, development and validation of specific algorithms, technique assessment, and application in medical populations/research.

Methodology

The current study replicated the study design used for white paper testing of Catapult minimax S4/V4 in 2009. A single athlete performed 10 replicates of 10m and 20m straight-line sprints and 10 replicates for both a 12.5m and 25m change of direction course.

Testing Environment

Testing was conducted in an open, unobstructed environment on a grass field.

Validity and Reliability Assessment

Validity was assessed by comparing the distance recorded by GPS devices with a measuring tape as the criterion measure. Reliability was assessed by calculating the standard estimate of the error and bias.

Results

Results showed improved validity and reliability for the OptimEye devices relative to minimaxX. Improvements in bias in the magnitude of 3.17%, 14.63%, 9.99%, and 2.10% were reported for the 10m, 12.5m, 25m, and 20m courses respectively. A statistically significant improvement (p<0.05) was found for the S5 measuring distance. The reported errors in S5 measurement were within estimated experimental error indicating good validity for distance measurement. Conclusion OptimEye S5 devices show improved performance compared to minimax and have been shown to be valid for use in the assessment of human motion.

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