A guide to RTK network options

What makes for a better RTK network?

There are many options to consider when choosing an RTK network, and those options will vary based on where you or your project are located. In some regions of the United States, you can choose between state-run and private networks, whereas other regions will offer fewer options. Here’s a brief overview of your options:

State-run RTK networks.

Around 40% of US states have their own RTK networks, managed by the state government, that residents and businesses can use for free. See a complete list here > 

State-run RTK networks, if available in your area, are a great starting point. However, it’s worth noting that they can suffer from technical issues and don’t necessarily maintain the same uptime as private networks. 

Private RTK networks.

There are a number of private RTK networks operating around the United States. Some are limited to a specific state or region, while others offer more widespread coverage. 

Some are considered premium options due to their high price point and excellent accuracy. Examples include Smartnet, operated by Leica, and VRS Now, operated by Trimble. Both of these brands have spent years building a dense network of base stations to ensure consistent coverage over a widespread area. They have complete control over their entire network, including their hardware.

There are also budget options available, such as GEODNET. Companies like GEODNET do not own their own network of base stations. Instead, they create their network from base stations purchased and operated by individuals, essentially crowdsourcing from their customers to create a shared network. This allows them to offer RTK services at a much lower price point.

However, it should be noted that there are some drawbacks to these budget services. The central company has no control over where the base stations are placed, limiting their ability to ensure comprehensive coverage. Additionally, they can’t guarantee multiple reference points, which can reduce the accuracy of the collected points. 

So what’s the best RTK network?

An excellent option for many companies is RTK Premium, an RTK network with a multi-network architecture and dense base station spacing that offers the same professional-grade accuracy as premium tiers at a more accessible price point. This is possible due to RTK Premium’s streamlined operational structure.

Compare RTK networks:

	State-Run Networks	Private Networks with Professionally Managed Hardware	Private Networks with Crowdsourced User Hardware	RTK Premium
Uptime	Varies from state to state	Consistent	Varies by location	99.98%
Coverage area	Limited to each state	Varies from network to network	Typically high	Strong coverage throughout the United States
Virtual reference station	Typically yes	Varies from network to network	Typically no	Yes
Multi-network access	No	Typically no	Typically no	Yes
Support available	Varies from state to state	Yes	Yes	Yes
Reference system(s)	Typically NAD 83 (2011)	Typically NAD 83 (2011)	Typically NAD 83 (2011)	Several options, including NAD 83 (2011)
Cost	Usually free of charge	Annual fee:  $700-$3,300	Annual fee: $400 Monthly fee: $40	Annual fee: $900 Monthly fee: $100 (hourly options also available)

 

The performance, reliability, and other features of these networks can vary widely from state to state. Some states have extremely well-managed networks, with excellent coverage and good customer support. Others are prone to downtime and offer limited, if any, support. For more insight into individual state options, get in touch.