GPS and RTK are two different types of satellite positioning systems. The main difference between the two is their accuracy and precision. GPS relies on satellites that have a clear line of sight. RTK relies on satellites to provide real-time corrections and is better for precision.
GNSS
GNSS and RTK are two different kinds of positioning systems that are often used in the same applications. They are helpful for businesses because they can help them optimize efficiency and reduce operating costs. The difference between them is in the way they calculate position. GNSS systems require a precise measurement of the time it takes for a signal to travel from the satellite to a receiver. Because this signal travels through the atmosphere and ionosphere, the accuracy of the position calculated by the receiver is limited to about two to four meters. RTK fixes this problem using a different technique that can provide centimeter-level accuracy.
Using RTK is a better choice for users looking to increase their GPS position accuracy. Traditional GNSS receivers only offer accuracy of about seven to 13 feet. By contrast, RTK receivers can provide accuracy to a centimeter. While GNSS receivers measure position data, RTK uses a carrier-based ranging technique that relies on a single reference station to improve accuracy.
In the world of satellite positioning, both GNSS and RTK have advantages and disadvantages. GNSS has a more precise position measurement. However, it still requires an accurate satellite receiver to obtain accurate positioning data. In addition, the RTK receiver can reduce the ionospheric delay.
Generally, the GNSS receiver is more expensive than an equivalent antenna, but it contains more advanced technology that allows it to track sub-meter positions and navigate crowded areas. In addition, RTK GNSS-capable surveying equipment comes with active real-time corrections and receives the latest RTCM correction data from the local RTK network. In addition, GNSS antennas can import digital terrain models (DTM) into a survey.
GNSS is a global positioning system that helps users find their location accurately. GNSS receivers can catch signals even in heavily-constructed areas, which means they can provide accurate positioning even through a 20-cm brick wall. Alternatively, smart electronic devices can work with local signals or private stations to acquire the best signal possible. As a result, the accuracy of RTK receivers can reach two centimeters.
GNSS receivers
The most significant difference between GNSS and RTK is the precision of the location data. GNSS receivers can receive corrections from satellites in almost every location on Earth. Still, they can be slow to acquire a fixed position, and the initialization process may take up to an hour. Multi-band receivers can achieve a fixed position more quickly and have a more extended baseline, but they are generally more expensive.
The difference between GNSS receivers and RTK systems is in the frequency range. For example, a DGPS antenna may require two hundred bits of data per second, while an RTK receiver can require as much as two thousand bits per second. For RTK to work correctly, the base station transmitter must be more powerful than the rover’s radio antenna.
While GNSS receivers are generally accurate, RTK systems can improve them to a point within centimeters. RTK receivers can also fix antenna positions to within a few centimeters. RTK requires at least five satellites to be effective. When choosing between RTK and GPS receivers, they must consider their accuracy and sensitivity.
RTK receivers are cheaper than GNSS receivers. In North America, an RTK receiver can cost less than US$7,000. In other regions, the price may be much less. It is also possible to purchase a complete RTK receiver for less than $300. You should also be aware that RTK receivers are much more accurate than code-based GNSS receivers.
GNSS error correction
GNSS error correction refers to detecting errors in satellite signals. The difference between GPS and RTK lies in how these corrections are generated. While GPS uses satellite signals and PPP corrections are derived from radio signals from fixed base stations, network RTK uses Internet-based communication to transfer the error information. Network RTK can improve position accuracy to two centimeters but requires a stable internet connection and a subscription to a local NTRIP service provider.
GNSS error correction is an essential factor in navigation. It helps the user receive precise positions, even if multiple GNSS signals exist in the same area. However, errors are still present in GNSS signals, which may make the data inaccurate. To improve GNSS positioning, users should use a high-accuracy GNSS device.
Although technology has significantly improved in recent years, it is still relatively expensive. RTK receivers cost several thousand dollars, making it challenging to select the best one for a particular application. Typically, there are two types of GNSS receivers: multi-band and single-band. Each has a different range of frequencies but achieves the same accuracy level under ideal conditions. If you want the best price, check rtkgpssurveyequipment.com/rtk-GPS-system/ as soon as possible!
While GNSS error correction has improved the reliability of a GNSS system, it is not a replacement for GPS. Instead, it is an additional component of a GPS. In contrast, a GPS receiver can provide centimeter-level positioning accuracy.