Top 5 Reasons to Upgrade Your GNSS Receiver Now

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are the backbone of numerous modern applications, from precision agriculture to surveying. As technology rapidly evolves, upgrading your GNSS system can offer significant advantages. Here are the top five reasons why you should consider upgrading your GNSS system now.

One of the most compelling reasons to upgrade your GNSS system is the improvement in accuracy and precision. Modern GNSS receivers,  such as the  Emlid Reach RS2+  and RS3 can achieve centimeter-level accuracy, a significant leap from older systems. This enhanced precision is crucial for applications that require exact positioning, such as surveying, mapping, and construction.

Accurate GNSS data ensures precise boundary delineation, topographic mapping, and infrastructure development in surveying and mapping. In precision agriculture, farmers can optimize planting patterns, reduce wastage, and increase yields with precise location data. 

Upgrading to a new GNSS system like the Emlid Reach RS2+ or RS3 can significantly reduce errors, leading to more reliable data and better decision-making. The Reach RS2+ achieves centimeter accuracy up to 60 km in RTK mode and 100 km in PPK mode, while the RS3 provides tilt compensation with 20 mm accuracy even at tilt angles up to 60 degrees, ensuring precise measurements in challenging environments.

Upgraded GNSS systems benefit from advancements in satellite technology and signal processing. Modern systems utilize signals from multiple satellite constellations, such as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou, which enhances signal reliability and integrity.

This is particularly important in urban environments, where high-rise buildings and other obstacles can block or reflect signals, causing multipath errors. Multi-constellation support reduces these issues. Enhanced signal reliability ensures consistent performance even in remote areas where older systems might struggle.

Modern GNSS systems come packed with advanced features that were not available in older models. These include real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning, precise point positioning (PPP), and integration with other sensors such as inertial measurement units (IMUs).

RTK provides real-time corrections, delivering centimeter-level accuracy, which is crucial for applications like drone surveying and machine control. PPP offers high accuracy without the need for a nearby base station, ideal for remote and offshore operations. Combining GNSS with IMUs enhances positioning accuracy in environments where GNSS signals are weak or obstructed, such as inside tunnels or dense forests. The Emlid Reach features LoRa radio technology, allowing robust communication over long distances without sacrificing battery life. 

Upgrading your GNSS system can lead to significant gains in efficiency and productivity. Modern systems are designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive interfaces and automated processes that reduce the need for manual intervention. Faster data acquisition and processing speeds mean that projects can be completed more quickly, reducing labour costs and time-to-completion. Automation reduces the likelihood of human error and ensures consistent data quality, which is critical for large-scale projects. Modern GNSS systems can handle more data and integrate seamlessly with other technologies, allowing for scalable solutions that grow with your needs. 

The RS3 features a built-in industrial-grade battery that can operate for up to 22 hours, withstanding extreme temperatures and over 2000 charge cycles. By streamlining workflows and enhancing data processing, upgraded GNSS systems like the Emlid Reach RS2+ and RS3 enable users to accomplish more in less time, boosting overall productivity.

Technology is continuously evolving, and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements is essential for maintaining a competitive edge. Upgrading your GNSS system ensures that you are equipped with the latest technology, safeguarding your investment for the future. Newer systems are designed to be compatible with upcoming satellite constellations and signals, ensuring longevity and continued performance improvements.

As standards and regulations evolve, having an up-to-date GNSS system ensures compliance with the latest requirements. Manufacturers often phase out support for older systems, so upgrading ensures that you have access to ongoing technical support and software updates.