SparkFun Electronics has introduced the RTK Torch, a device designed for high-precision geolocation and GIS applications. The device offers tri-band reception, tilt compensation, and millimeter accuracy to meet the needs of users requiring precise measurements.
The RTK Torch is capable of providing millimeter-grade measurements and allows users to connect their phone to the device via Bluetooth to receive NMEA output and work with most GIS software. It features Zero-Touch RTK technology, which automatically provides WiFi credentials for a hotspot or another WiFi network, enabling the device to start receiving corrections with no additional setup required and no NTRIP credentials necessary. These corrections are sourced from u-blox PointPerfect and are accessible in the United States, Europe, and select areas in Australia, Canada, Brazil, and Korea.
This system comes with a one-month free subscription to PointPerfect, and additional subscriptions can be purchased if desired. In the event that PointPerfect coverage is not available in a particular area, corrections from a local base station or service can be transmitted to the device over NTRIP via Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity.
The SparkFun RTK Torch is housed in an IP67-rated enclosure, making it waterproof when submerged up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes when the USB cover is securely closed. Inside the device, users will find an ESP32, a UM980 L1/L2/L5 high precision GNSS receiver from Unicore, and an IM-19 for tilt compensation. With the addition of L5 reception, this portable GNSS device is well-suited for areas with dense canopy cover where traditional L1/L2 reception might encounter obstacles.
The RTK Torch can be utilized for a range of applications including GNSS Positioning with approximately 400mm accuracy; GNSS Positioning with RTK for 8mm accuracy using a local base station; GNSS Positioning with PPP-RTK for 14 to 60mm accuracy with PointPerfect corrections; GNSS Positioning with Tilt Compensation; GNSS Base Station; and GNSS Base Station NTRIP Server.
