The Problem: One of the most common mistakes is positioning the antenna too close to reflective surfaces, under tree canopy, or in areas with limited sky view. This significantly degrades signal quality and can prevent proper RTK initialization.
How to Fix It:
• Maintain minimum 15° elevation mask above horizon
• Keep antenna at least 2 meters from reflective surfaces
• Ensure clear view of sky in all directions
• Use a ground plane for handheld units to reduce multipath
The Problem: Mismatched communication parameters between receiver and correction source, or using wrong correction formats, can prevent RTK corrections from being received properly.
How to Fix It:
• Verify correction format (RTCM 3.x is recommended)
• Match baud rates and communication protocols exactly
• Test communication before heading to the field
• Keep backup communication methods ready
The Problem: Using poorly positioned base stations or ignoring base station health indicators can result in unreliable corrections and reduced accuracy.
How to Fix It:
• Monitor base station signal quality indicators regularly
• Verify base station coordinates are accurate
• Check age of corrections (should be less than 10 seconds)
• Use multiple base stations when available for redundancy
The Problem: Starting measurements before RTK initialization is complete or ignoring fix quality indicators leads to inaccurate positioning data.
How to Fix It:
• Wait for “RTK Fixed” status before taking measurements
• Allow 2-5 minutes for proper initialization
• Monitor position quality indicators continuously
• Re-initialize if fix is lost during work
The Problem: Using incorrect datum, projection, or coordinate system parameters can result in systematic errors that affect all measurements.
How to Fix It:
• Verify project coordinate system requirements before setup
• Use correct datum and projection parameters
• Test setup with known control points
• Document all coordinate system settings for future reference
Poor battery management is a frequent cause of field failures. Common issues include not charging batteries fully before use, ignoring low battery warnings, using old or degraded batteries, and having no backup power plan.
Best practices: Always carry spare batteries, monitor battery levels regularly throughout the day, use manufacturer-recommended batteries, and replace batteries that no longer hold adequate charge.
Using outdated firmware versions, incompatible software configurations, skipping calibration procedures, and ignoring software updates can lead to performance problems and compatibility issues.
Best practices: Keep firmware updated to the latest stable versions, perform regular equipment calibration according to manufacturer specifications, and test equipment after any updates before field use.
Critical setup mistakes include incorrect antenna height measurement, not leveling the antenna properly, measuring to the wrong reference point, and using inconsistent setup procedures between measurements.
Skipping redundant measurements, not checking against known control points, ignoring quality indicators, and insufficient documentation can compromise the reliability of survey results.
Regular equipment training sessions, staying updated on industry best practices, learning from experienced operators, and attending manufacturer workshops are essential for preventing common mistakes.
Develop written procedures for equipment setup, create comprehensive setup checklists, implement quality control steps at each phase of work, and document lessons learned from past projects.
Connect with RTK service providers who offer comprehensive training and technical support to help you avoid these common mistakes.