Rover operation guidelines

Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) operation provides centimeter-level precision by eliminating errors that are present in the GNSS system. For all RTK operations, you require both a rover receiver and a source of corrections from a base station or network of base stations.

This topic introduces the concept of rover operation, provides information to help you identify good setup locations, describes best practices for setting up the equipment, and outlines the precautions that you need to take to protect the equipment.

The second part of the RTK GNSS system is the rover receiver. The rover receiver is moved between the points that require measurement or stakeout. The rover receiver is connected to a base station or to a source of RTK corrections such as a VRS™ system or the Trimble CenterPoint RTX correction service. The connection is provided by:

  • an integrated radio

  • an integrated cellular modem

  • an integrated Wi-Fi module

  • a cellular modem in the controller

  • an integrated GNSS antenna (L-Band)

In most rover applications, the receiver operates entirely from its own integrated battery unit. However, you can use an external power supply if one is provided. The internal battery then acts as an uninterruptible power supply, covering any external power failures.

For good rover operation, observe the following setup guidelines:

  • Place the GNSS antenna in a location that has a clear line of sight to the sky in all directions. Do not place the antenna near vertical obstructions such as buildings, deep cuttings, site vehicles, towers, or tree canopy. GNSS rovers and the base station receive the same satellite signals from the same satellites. The system needs five common satellites to provide RTK positioning.

    The GNSS receiver and its cabling should be installed in accordance with all national and local electrical codes, regulations, and practices. The receiver and cabling should be installed where they will not become energized as a result of falling nearby power lines, nor be mounted where they are subjected to over-voltage transients, particularly lightning. Such installations require additional protective means that are detailed in national and local electrical codes.

    Take care not to touch overhead power lines with the Trimble R10 GNSS receiver or the range pole when moving the equipment into position. Touching overhead power lines may cause electrocution, leading to serious injury.

  • GNSS satellites are constantly moving. Because you cannot measure at a specific location now does not mean that you will not be able to measure there later, when satellite coverage at the location improves. Use GNSS planning software to identify the daily best and worst satellite coverage times for your location and then choose measurement times that coincide with optimal GNSS performance. This is especially important when operating in the worst GNSS locations. You can use Trimble GNSS Planning Online at www.gnssplanning.com. To use online GNSS planning, may need to first install the Microsoft Silverlight® add-on for your Internet browser.

  • To get a fixed position solution with centimeter precision, initialize the RTK rover receiver. For initialization to take place, the receiver must track at least five satellites that the base station is also tracking. In a dual-satellite constellation operation, for example, GPS and GLONASS, the receiver must track at least six satellites.

  • To continue to survey at centimeter precisions, the rover must continuously track at least four satellites that the base station is also tracking. The communications link between the base and rover receivers must also be maintained.

  • Loss of the satellite signals will result in a loss of centimeter position precision.

  • If the radio link or cellular signal is lost, xFill takes over, which allows for centimeter precisions.

    The Trimble R10 GNSS receiver is not suited to on-vehicle operation where it will be subject to heavy vibration, that is, operation in rough ungraded terrain. Use in these conditions can damage the receiver.