Real time kinematic (RTK) is surveying technology that is used to correct the errors in global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). This is positioning system that measures relative positions and found errors in GNSS using RTK technology. RTK technology is composed of two receivers, one is called GNNS receiver or base station, and the seconder receiver is called rovers which moves freely. The GNNS receiver is static station whose coordinates are measured by precision method. The base station use the global navigation system to compute the errors by comparing it with precise location. The error detected by base station is transferred in real-time to the rover receiver. Thus, the objective of the antenna at GNNS receiver is to be at one point, and send corrections to moving receiver.
Rover receivers use the corrections to get better its computed position and attain centimeter level precision. Generally, more than one rover receiver is used and connected to one base if the input base match with output base. Traditional global network system receivers determine the signal travelling time from satellite to receiver. These receivers determine the location with two to four meter accuracy. But the incorporation of Real time kinematic provides the location in centimeter accuracy.
Real time kinematic technology is generally used in construction that requires high frequency such as drone navigation, cadastral survey and other construction activities. The benefits of this technology are:
This system relies on the satellites, radio communication and positioning, thus it helps in quick surveying as compared to the traditional systems. RTK technology helps in quick development of the constructional surveys. RTK gives centimeter level accuracy and thus it eliminates the human error which occurs in traditional survey system. However, there are some limitations with this technology, such as unavailability in lands with obstructions (mountains, trees), in marine areas or the projects that disturb the communication in system. Furthermore, the system requires pre-surveyed station with its proper coordinates.