Satellite navigation systems are an important part of everyday life for many individuals and professions. People utilize this technology to execute far more tasks than help motorists get from location to location. A variety of industries employ advanced applications to pinpoint a location’s precise coordinates or identify vital natural resources. One such type of technology is RTK GPS.
Brief Overview
RTK GPS, an abbreviation for Real-Time Kinematic Global Positioning System, is one of the most advanced forms of satellite navigation technology.
How Does Real-Time Kinematic Work?
The RTK version of GPS uses a function known as carrier-based ranging to identify, gather and interpret satellite-generated data. This system employs only one base station to check the collected information’s accuracy. Industries such as surveying and resource exploration favour the technology as they require pinpoint accuracy to perform specific industry-related functions.
Additionally, industries, like engineering, construction, land use and aviation employ the RTK model, as pinpoint accuracy in determining coordinates is crucial to their successes and, in certain instances, the well-being of those engaged in or benefit from the actions performed by said individuals.
Carrier-based positioning is said to be more accurate than other commonly utilized data collecting techniques because said practice reduces the chances of corrupting such sensitive information. Various errors, such as satellite clock malfunctions or ionosphere disruptions could inhibit a GPS signal’s smooth transmission from space to earth, which can lead to transmission delays or inaccuracies.
Real-time kinematics significantly reduce the occurrence of these possible mishaps. In the process, the accuracy of this application typically falls within as little as three to five centimeters. The accuracy of other GPS applications is usually within several meters.
The GNSS Receiver
Individuals or entities that employ RTK applications or any other GPS must have some type of information-processing device at their disposal. That contraption is known as a GNSS, short for Global Navigation Satellite System Receiver.
1.The GNSS Receiver’s Function
The receiver’s job is to search for and locate the signals transmitted by satellites. These signals help determine the user’s location and other pertinent measurements, including their rate of travel. There are many different types of GNSS units. However, all systems contain several common functional elements, such as:
2.A Front End
This component identifies, captures, and processes the satellite-transmitted signals.
3.Baseboard Signal Processing
This feature employs numerous processing sequences to identify and interpret satellite-transmitted signals. Such sequences track the validity of the messages. Once they confirm the efficacy, the processor secures and interprets collected data.
4.Antenna
The antenna’s responsibility is to detect and capture pertinent signals.
5.Application Processing
An application processing unit interprets the satellite-generated data in a way that can be understood by the user.
GNSS Receiver Costs
GNSS receiver costs can vary widely. In today’s technologically-driven world, basic GPS applications can work on a mobile phone for a limited amount of money or, in certain instances, at no charge. However, receivers used to accompany more advanced systems, such as an RTK application, will be far more pricey.
Specific monetary amounts are difficult to gauge. Components could range in price from several hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. Exact costs will hinge on numerous critical factors, including:
1.The Intended Purposes
Those who need RTK applications are involved in work necessitating precision accuracy. Apparatuses capable of producing razor-sharp accuracy will prove more costly than those that are not quite as precise.
2.Additional Features
Like any other technological contraption, additional features could significantly hike the overall costs. Instruments equipped with numerous extras and intricate gadgetry will be more expensive than devices containing only basic elements.
3.The Intended Environment
The environment for the intended use of the apparatus might also impact overall costs. The construction of some systems makes them capable of handling potentially harsh conditions, such as temperature extremes, excessive wind and extreme weather phenomena. However, such objects have materials capable of withstanding the elements while still maintaining the unit’s optimal functionality. That said, this added protection often equates to additional costs.
