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Walker RTK: Why a compact GNSS receiver outperforms a smartphone with a built-in RTK module

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Global Navigation Systems (GNSS) have become an integral part of the modern world, providing accurate positioning and navigation. One of the key developments in this field is the introduction of Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) technology, which allows obtaining high-precision results with millimeter accuracy. In this article, we'll look at why the compact Walker RTK GNSS receiver outperforms smartphones and tablets with a built-in RTK module.

Stability of obtaining a FIXED solution

It is an important question, because we are considering RTK receivers with absolute accuracy. The data received must be accurate and the accuracy must be reliable, even though some instruments have an internal RTK module, this does not always mean that the data is reliable.

The Walker RTK GNSS receiver, like a smartphone with an internal RTK module, can be used in the hand. Walker RTK compared to RTK-Smartphone will show better performance and stability of measurements. We will write about this in the block on constructive advantage.

In practice, the Walker RTK has an important advantage, which is its ability to be raised higher using a pole or tripod. This allows you to improve the quality of satellite signal reception, especially in conditions where the direct view of satellites is limited by tall buildings, trees or other obstacles. Due to the fact that smartphones and tablets with a built-in RTK module are part of the device, their ability to lift or move to improve the signal is limited. In other words, you can only hold the smartphone at eye level, but this may not always be enough. Sometimes the receiver needs to be raised at least 2 - 2.5 meters, but the smartphone can't be used if it is raised to such a height.

This is essential in surveying and mapping applications where positioning accuracy and reliability are critical. With the help of a pole or a tripod, the Walker RTK can be placed at a higher level, providing a better viewing angle of the satellites and reducing the effect of interference on the signal.

Thus, the physical separation between the Walker RTK compact GNSS receiver and a smartphone with a built-in RTK module allows to improve the quality of the satellite signal and obtain more accurate positioning results in conditions with obstacles.

The positioning accuracy and design advantage of the Walker RTK

Another important advantage of the Walker RTK compact GNSS receiver is the possibility of accurate positioning with an accuracy of 1-2 cm. Smartphones are usually held in the user's hand, which makes it difficult to accurately determine their position, and the real accuracy in the hand can be at the level of 5-10 cm. At the same time, the Walker RTK can be mounted on a pole or tripod, allowing for geodetic accuracy.

The centimeter level of accuracy is particularly important in professional fields such as surveying, cartography, agriculture and construction, where measurement accuracy is of fundamental importance.

The use of a compact Walker RTK GNSS receiver with a surveying pole allows for geodetic-level accuracy and improved positioning results compared to RTK smartphones, which have limited ability to accurately position in the user's hands.

The reliability and stability of the RTK signal is another important factor in which the Walker RTK compact GNSS receiver has an advantage over smartphones and tablets with a built-in RTK module.

In smartphones, the satellite signal can be affected by various obstacles, including buildings, trees, terrain geometry and even the body of the human holding the smartphone. This may result in reduced signal quality and positioning accuracy.

In the case of the Walker RTK, its tubular design and antenna placement on top avoids obstructions that could interfere with a direct satellite signal. Additionally, using a pole or tripod allows you to place the receiver higher, providing a better view of the sky and a more reliable fixed signal.