FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GNSS RTK and how does it function?

GNSS RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) is an advanced satellite positioning method that significantly improves the accuracy of standard GNSS signals such as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou. It operates by using a network of fixed base stations that detect errors in satellite data and transmit real-time corrections to mobile units (rovers), achieving centimeter-level precision. This makes it highly suitable for accuracy-critical fields like surveying, construction, precision farming, and autonomous systems.

 

 

 

 

What settings are required to connect a device to the RTK network (caster address, port, mount point)?

Connection Guidelines:

  • Protocol: Use NTRIP or NTRIPV2

  • Caster Address: Enter rtk.geodnet.com (may be listed as Server Address, Host, or IP)

    • For numeric input only, use IP: 13.56.117.10

  • Port: 2101 (may appear as Server Port or Host Port)

  • Username & Password: Provided with your account

  • Mount Point / Data Stream: Choose based on your use case. This may be labeled as Stream or Source Table.

    • Use “AUTO” for automatic region-based selection

      • Defaults: US – NAD83(2011)(2010.00), Europe – ETRS89(ETRF2000)(2010.00)

    • Specific needs: Use AUTO_WGS84 or AUTO_ITRF2020 depending on your requirements

  • Vertical Datum: The system uses ellipsoidal height relative to the chosen datum. For orthometric height, apply a local geoid or vertical transformation via post-processing.

Why is GNSS RTK so precise?

GNSS RTK achieves horizontal accuracy of 1–2 cm and vertical accuracy of 2–3 cm through several key mechanisms:

  • Live Corrections: Real-time data from base stations corrects errors like atmospheric distortion and satellite drift.

  • Differential Positioning: The system calculates the offset between the satellite signals and known base station coordinates, enabling precise positioning.

  • Carrier Phase Measurement: RTK uses the high-frequency carrier signal for position computation, allowing for greater accuracy than standard code-based GNSS methods.

How does GNSS RTK compare with other precision technologies?

GNSS RTK is a top-tier solution for tasks that demand real-time, high-accuracy positioning. While other technologies have their advantages depending on the scenario, RTK remains essential for critical applications like surveying, farming, and autonomous machinery.

  • Standard GNSS: Offers 3–10 meter accuracy, sufficient for basic navigation, but inadequate for precision tasks.

  • PPP (Precise Point Positioning): Achieves global decimeter-level precision without local base stations, though convergence is slower.

  • DGNSS (Differential GNSS): Provides sub-meter accuracy and is simpler to deploy, ideal for marine or moderate-precision land work.

  • INS (Inertial Navigation Systems): Fills in during GNSS outages but loses accuracy over time. Best used in tandem with GNSS.

  • LiDAR: Produces mm–cm accuracy for 3D modeling and mapping. Often used alongside RTK for autonomous navigation and environmental analysis.

What sets proRTK apart from others?

proRTK stands out by combining RTK and PPP technologies to offer centimeter-level accuracy with worldwide accessibility. Its decentralized architecture ensures consistent access to corrections globally, and the scalable structure of Geodnet’s system allows for easy growth based on your operational demands.

Under what conditions does GNSS RTK perform best?

GNSS RTK delivers optimal performance in open environments with unobstructed satellite visibility and minimal interference, maximizing accuracy.

What kinds of applications benefit from GNSS RTK?

GNSS RTK is highly effective for precision-demanding tasks such as:

  • Land and construction surveying

  • Smart agriculture

  • Infrastructure development

  • Navigation of autonomous systems

Which devices are compatible with your RTK data services?

Our RTK data is compatible with the majority of GNSS hardware supporting RTK corrections, provided they are compliant with RTCM and NTRIP standards.

Do I need my own RTK base station?

Not necessarily. Our services provide network-based RTK corrections, eliminating the need for personal base station setups. However, for specialized use cases, we offer optional, no-cost local base stations under specific terms upon request.

How many devices can access RTK data with a single license?

This depends on the subscription type. Standard licenses allow access to one data stream for one device. For larger needs involving multiple streams or devices, we recommend a custom plan that can be tailored for cost-efficiency and scalability.

What regions are covered by your RTK services?

Our RTK network has a global footprint, with strong coverage in North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and South Asia, ensuring reliable service in major operational zones.