Cost-Effective RTK GNSS Receivers & Antennas for Drones & Robotics

A Guide to Achieving Optimal GNSS Antenna Performance

ArduSimple shares a step-by-step guide to installing GNSS antennas, covering best practices for avoiding obstructions, reducing interference, and achieving optimal performance Feature Article by ArduSimple
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Below, ArduSimple provides a detailed tutorial on how to install a GNSS antenna to ensure maximum precision. Whether working with drones or other equipment requiring high-accuracy, these tips will help users to achieve reliable data. 

Achieving consistent GNSS accuracy can be a challenge, but proper antenna installation is crucial to minimizing fluctuations in performance.


Small errors in antenna setup can drastically affect the accuracy of your GNSS receiver. This video highlights the importance of avoiding common pitfalls, such as signal obstructions from buildings, trees, or other structures, as well as interference from nearby electronics.

How to Choose the Right Location

Positioning the antenna in an open area with a clear view of the sky is critical. For vehicle installations, the best placement is typically on the roof, where windows and other obstructions won’t interfere with the signal.

In urban environments where buildings can block satellite views, the available satellites may be clustered in certain regions of the sky, leading to poor geometry and lower accuracy.

For surveyors, installing the antenna at intersections or in open spaces is more effective than placing it between buildings, where signals may be limited. Similarly, for autonomous vehicles, selecting a spot away from trees or tall structures is advised for recalibration stops.

If you are in dense urban environment, using survey grade GNSS antennas can significantly reduce the multipath error compared to non-survey grade antennas.

Reducing Interference

Installing ground plates is recommended to increase the directivity of the GNSS antenna and reduce noise from other electronic devices. On drones, adding a ground plate to the radio antenna can also help direct the transmission away from the GNSS antenna, improving performance.

In any setup, ensuring the antenna is placed away from noise sources like electric motors or video transmitters is key to maintaining signal integrity.

Environmental Considerations

Environmental factors like airflow and direct sunlight can also impact the receiver’s precision. Placing the receiver in a protective box made of plastic or cardboard can help shield it from these elements, preserving the accuracy of the internal oscillator.

Monitoring Signal Strength

One way to verify your antenna installation is through monitoring the signal strength. Ideally, a well-installed antenna should connect to more than 10 satellites with a signal strength over 40 dB, and a few satellites above 50 dB. Using advanced GNSS software, users can monitor the real-time average carrier-to-noise ratio to ensure optimal signal strength.

Summary

In conclusion, optimal GNSS antenna installation requires:

  • A location with a clear view of the sky, free from obstructions.
  • Secure mounting on a stable structure like a tripod or magnetic stand.
  • Ground plates to improve antenna directivity and reduce interference.
  • Placement of receivers in protective boxes to avoid environmental effects.
  • Monitoring of signal strength to ensure the best possible accuracy.

By following these steps, you’ll enhance your GNSS system’s reliability and precision, ensuring smoother data acquisition and navigation.

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Posted by William Mackenzie Connect & Contact