In modern times, technology plays a vital role in almost every professional, recreational or necessary activity in which people participate. One sometimes overlooked but pertinent issue demanded by the digitally-advanced world is directional accuracy. Regardless of whether an individual is attempting not to get lost while driving or performing a major professional task, products like RTK GPS and other navigational apparatuses often help people complete such jobs with greater speed and efficiency.
Overview Of Navigational Systems
There are several types of navigational systems commonly employed for various purposes. More advanced systems, like RTK GPS, are typically used in industries that require the obtainment of pinpoint coordinates, such as surveying, land usage, construction, resource exploration and aviation. Other less complicated apparatuses have applications in more frequent, everyday uses, including the downloading of driving directions.
These systems use satellite signals to identify, gather and process data that users interpret to perform the aforementioned tasks. Though there are many types of navigational systems, each one shares one common feature, a component known as a GNSS, an abbreviation for Global Navigational Satellite System, receiver.
GNSS Receiver Description
This device is the apparatus all navigational system users employ to receive and interpret collected data. The contraption has several specific components that execute an essential role in completing this process, including:
Baseboard Signal Processing Structure
Satellites give off various signals. The signal processing structure identifies these signals and determines their sequences.
Antenna
The antenna captures signals used to process GNSS-related information, in addition to filtering other noises and potential forms of interference.
Front End
This component receives the retrieved signals and converts, filters and digitizes said transmissions.
The Applications Processing Feature
Arguably, this is the most crucial component because this apparatus processes the accumulated data and presents it to the user in the information they can interpret and ultimately understand.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A GNSS Receiver
Numerous GNSS receivers are available for purchase on the open market. However, an individual’s specific needs will determine how simple or complex a device they should consider. Industry professionals maintain prospective purchasers should assess concerns, such as power consumption, expense, special features, the use of the apparatus for a specific type of project or activity, and the conduct of the action on the environment.
Furthermore, users should not overlook the perceived ease of use. Oftentimes, users learn how to operate special features and understand presented data at their own pace. However, companies hoping to complete a time-sensitive project might not have this luxury. Therefore, if complicated equipment must be employed, sufficient training time might need to be allotted in advance.
The Best GNSS Receivers Of 2020
Designating a specific product as the best is often subjective. Individuals might have differing views on this topic depending upon personal experiences and a host of other factors. However, contributors to a major online publication covering articles about different pieces of advanced technological apparatuses compiled a list of what they believe are the best GNSS receivers of 2020. It is also important to note that said professionals placed designated products into the specific following categories:
Versatility
Industry insiders suggest the Spectra Precision SP80 is the most versatile receiver because of several key features. This apparatus possesses the ability to perform data adjustments even during power outages, has optimal in-field movability and powerful hot-swap batteries.
Value
The Spectral Geospatial SP60 is considered the best receiver for its value, especially for highly demanding survey work. This device possesses the compatibility with several applications, including CenterPoint, RangePoint, ViewPoint and FieldPoint. Additionally, this component possesses extended Bluetooth and radio ranges and more than 250 MB of data storage capacity.
Accuracy
Those in the know maintain that the accuracy displayed by the Carlson BRx6+ is second to none. This device is said to yield measurable precision in as little as a few centimetres. Moreover, the apparatus is compatible with commonly employed surveying software and computer systems.
Cost
The Spectral Geospatial SP20 is said to provide significantly accurate coverage for most satellites and data formats. Furthermore, the device comes equipped with all necessary communication devices, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi compatibility and several USB ports. Industry insiders opine the fact that product prices sit at below $3,500 makes it a significant bargain.
