What is RTK?

RTK, or Real-Time Kinematic, is an advanced GNSS positioning technique that uses a fixed base station and a mobile rover to achieve centimeter-level accuracy. It provides real-time corrections to standard GPS data, allowing for precise measurements essential for applications like surveying, agriculture, and autonomous navigation.

RTK offers superior accuracy compared to standard GPS by using real-time error corrections from a base station. While typical GPS provides accuracy within a few meters, RTK can achieve centimeter-level precision, making it ideal for applications requiring exact positioning, such as precision farming and construction.

RTK requires a minimum of five satellites: four for standard GNSS positioning and an additional one to enable real-time error correction. The accuracy and reliability of RTK measurements improve with more satellites in view, especially in challenging environments.

RTK's accuracy diminishes with increased baseline length, typically limited to 10-20 km from the base station. It is also susceptible to signal obstructions, multipath effects, and requires a constant data link between the base station and rover, making it less effective in densely built or obstructed areas.

RTK is widely used in IoT applications requiring high-precision location data, such as autonomous vehicles, UAVs (drones), precision agriculture, and construction. Its ability to deliver real-time kinematic corrections ensures accurate navigation and positioning in dynamic IoT environments.

RTK surveys typically achieve 1-2 cm accuracy under optimal conditions, which is far more precise than conventional GPS. This high level of accuracy is critical for applications like surveying, drone mapping, and machine control in construction.