If you’re working on a land surveying project, you probably have a lot of equipment with GPS capabilities. But you’ll soon recognize that there are limitations to standard GPS technology. You’ll be in areas where the signal is weak, or you might have to deal with foliage that blocks your signal. These times are where a GNSS receiver comes in handy.
Here are some benefits of going with a GNSS receiver for your surveying equipment:
- GNSS Receivers Have More Channels Which Means Better Accuracy
Compared to a GPS, a GNSS receiver has more channels. It may have at least 12 channels all the way to over 70 channels. Remember, a GPS receiver collects signals from satellites. It will then take the signals and convert them into data for surveying work.
The more channels available with a GNSS receiver allows it to connect with more satellites and even dedicate specific channels to a satellite. As a result, you can expect more accurate data. With any surveying project, you want to have the most accurate data available so that you can make better decisions.
- It Offers Better Connectivity
With limited channels, GPS receivers can only connect with a few satellites. This issue can be an issue if you’re in an area with poor reception or if there is a lot of foliage that may be blocking the signals. You are basically trying to struggle to connect with one satellite.
With multiple channels, you can attempt to connect with numerous satellites. This means that there is a greater chance of getting the signals you need in problematic areas. It also translates to you having more stability when you do manage to get a connection.
- Cellular Networks Can Support GNSS Receivers
You’re not just limited to connection with satellites. Cellular networks can help provide more accurate data to your GNSS receiver. Your communication range will increase dramatically, and it can help improve your connection with reference stations that are near your location.
Cellular networks have a wide area of coverage, as most people use cell phones to communicate. The infrastructure already exists, so many GNSS receivers are taking advantage of it. This infrastructure is helpful in remote areas and can also help you increase the accuracy of your surveying data.
- GNSS Receivers Get the Benefit of GNSS Reference Networks
There are many GNSS reference stations throughout the world. There are advantages to having these GNSS stations. These permanent stations cover a huge area while also offering a stable coordinate system. The permanent stations also provide more accuracy since there is a relative position for your calculations.
What Features Are Available in GNSS Receiver?
As with other surveying equipment, GNSS receivers are seeing improvements regularly. It’s integrating Bluetooth technology, expanding antenna capabilities, and increasing the speed of connections. Here’s what you can expect from various models.
- Wireless communications – Many GNSS receivers will have multiple wireless connection capabilities. This type includes 4G LTE, Wi-FI, and Bluetooth.
- Simultaneous interaction with other devices – You can have two instruments measuring the same point and comparing the data so that you can get better data.
- Integration with Software – To make it easier to collect and calculate data, many receivers integrate with popular surveying applications.
As you can see, you want to upgrade to a GNSS receiver if you wish to have better connectivity, increased accuracy, and more stability while you are surveying. The advantages that a GNSS receiver offers over a standard GPS instrument are too significant to ignore. And if you start looking at the tools out there, you’ll find that there are many models, features, and price-points to choose.
Leave a Reply