GIS Mapping Tools

A robust GIS mapping system consists of three primary components: a GNSS receiver, a GNSS base station, and a GIS field software application.

GNSS Receivers for GIS

An SBAS GNSS receiver is the primary tool used to collect positioning data in the field. The receiver may be mounted on a rod or specialized backpack held in a technician’s hand. The receiver captures corrections from a satellite network and sends corrected GPS data to a mobile app, so a technician can track their own location, find or update the location of an existing asset, or mark the location of a new asset.

There are several varieties of GPS receivers on the market. Popular models include the Emlid Reach RX, the EOS Arrow, the Trimble DA2, the Trimble TDC650 Handheld, the Trimble Geo 7X (now discontinued), the Bad Elf Flex, and the Juniper Geode.

All of these receivers have SBAS capabilities and can deliver sub-meter accuracy on their own. However, many brands choose to “lock” their hardware, requiring users to pay an additional subscription fee to access greater levels of accuracy, after they have already purchased their unit.

The Emlid Reach RX does not require an additional fee to “unlock” its centimeter-level accuracy capabilities. The Reach RX is survey-grade and ready for RTK corrections right out of the box, giving users the option to achieve centimeter-level accuracy right away or at some point in the future. This is beneficial for both:

  • Experienced service providers. Choosing the Reach RX allows companies to expand or upgrade their fleet of receivers without the hefty monthly expense of a fleet’s worth of subscription fees.
  • New users. The Reach RX is a fantastic option for up-and-coming companies looking to invest in a GNSS receiver that will grant them flexibility as their business expands, without the added cost of a subscription fee.

Compare RTK GPS Receivers

Unit

Sub-meter accuracy capabilities require subscription fee

Centimeter-level accuracy capabilities require subscription fee

Battery Life

Emlid Reach RX

No

No

16hr

EOS Arrow Gold

No

Yes

11hr

Trimble DA2

Yes

Yes

Uses an external power bank

Bad Elf Flex

No

Yes

11hr

Juniper Geode GNS3

No

Yes

16hr

 

Learn more about the Emlid Reach RX > 

GNSS Base Stations for GIS

A GNSS base station is necessary for applications that require the centimeter-level accuracy of RTK data. Unlike a GNSS receiver, which is carried from place to place when in use, a GNSS base station remains stationary, providing a consistent reference point for GPS data.

NTRIP services use a network for base stations to provide free or paid RTK corrections for virtually anyone using a GNSS receiver. However, GNSS receiver users also have the option to purchase their own base station, such as the Emlid Reach RS2+, so they can conduct their own RTK corrections without engaging an outside service provider.

GIS Field Software & Apps

There are a number of software programs and mobile apps on the market that allow workers to access maps and data in the field via tablets and smartphones. These apps pair seamlessly with GPS receivers to find assets, collect data, track location, and more.

The most popular field software platforms are:

  • ESRI ArcGIS Field Maps
  • QField
  • Blue Marble’s Global Mapper
  • Mergin Maps
  • Avenza Maps

All of these platforms are compatible with Apple iOS and Android phones and tablets.

E38 Survey Solutions is proud to offer affordable, high-precision GIS hardware from Emlid. The Emlid Reach RX GNSS receiver is compatible with every major GIS field software platform on the market, serving as the foundation for a reliable, user-friendly GIS system that can be deployed in virtually any environment.


To learn more about GIS receivers and base stations from E38, talk to a member of our team >