RTKdata explains how Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) technology enables drones to achieve approximately 1-3 cm positioning accuracy, both horizontally and vertically, using continuous GNSS correction data during flight. Read more >>
Using Networked Transport of RTCM via Internet Protocol (NTRIP), these corrections are streamed over cellular or WiFi, with RTKdata.com delivering the corrections online as a simple RTK system for drone flights. This removes the need to deploy and maintain physical base stations and supports precise mapping, surveying, and autonomous operations.
A complete RTK system for drones consists of reference stations with known coordinates, an NTRIP caster that distributes correction data, and a drone rover that applies these corrections in real time. RTKdata.com provides access to a dense reference station network and internet-delivered corrections, allowing drones to reach “Fixed RTK” accuracy without additional base hardware.
Key benefits include reduced reliance on Ground Control Points, faster setup times, improved data quality, and increased efficiency for mapping, surveying, construction monitoring, agriculture, and response operations. Skipping base station setup can save around 15 minutes per job and enables operators to move between sites without rebuilding a base.
A step-by-step overview is provided for configuring an NTRIP connection, covering registration with RTKdata.com, entering server details into the drone controller, ensuring strong cellular or WiFi connectivity, operating in open environments, and confirming “Fixed RTK” status before starting a mission.
RTK is also compared with traditional GPS/GNSS, where standard positioning can drift by 1-5 meters due to atmospheric and signal-related factors, while RTK reduces this error to centimeter-level accuracy. While physical base stations may still be used in areas without connectivity, internet-based NTRIP RTK is presented as the modern standard for most day-to-day drone operations.
To find out more information, read ‘RTK for Drones: Ultimate Precision Explained’ here >>
