RTK Troubleshooting Guide
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Table of contents
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Summary
RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) delivers centimeter-level GNSS accuracy—if a steady correction stream is available. This guide shows how to diagnose the three main problem areas (connection, signal, hardware/config), validate NTRIP, keep RTK Fix with ~1 s correction age, and prevent repeat issues.
Key takeaways
- RTK depends on a reliable correction feed; internet dropouts and blocked ports break Fix.
- Most issues fall into three buckets: connection, signal quality, and hardware/configuration.
- Watch fix mode (Fix/Float/Single) and correction age—aim for under 1 second.
- Use the 7-step checklist to verify network, sky view, cables, NTRIP, firmware, pairing, and support.
- Prevent problems with clear sky views, routine checks, saved credentials, monitoring, and scheduled updates.
Introduction to RTK and troubleshooting
RTK is a high-precision GNSS method used in drones, agriculture, surveying, construction, and robotics. Even with robust networks like RTKdata, issues can appear. Understanding core failure modes helps you fix them quickly and get back to a stable Fix.
Common RTK issues
- Connection: weak cellular coverage, data caps, Wi-Fi drops, APN/firewall blocks, NTRIP server not reachable.
- Signal quality: blocked sky view (trees, buildings), multipath, RF interference, severe weather.
- Hardware/configuration: loose or corroded connectors, damaged cables/antenna, outdated firmware, wrong NTRIP login/port/mountpoint, device using internal GPS instead of the RTK receiver.
RTK troubleshooting checklist
Step 1: Check the network
Confirm internet at the rover/base. Test another SIM/provider if needed. Make sure the correction stream is active and correction age stays near or under 1 s.
Step 2: Inspect hardware
Give base and rover a clear sky view. Avoid obstructions. Check cables, antenna, and connectors for damage or rust. Reseat, tighten, and clean contacts.
Step 3: Validate NTRIP
Re-enter host, port, username, password, and mountpoint. Save changes and restart the app/device after any update.
Step 4: Monitor status
Watch Fix/Float/Single and correction age. If Fix does not hold, revisit network, sky view, and NTRIP setup.
Step 5: Update and calibrate
Install firmware/software updates. If prompted to “Initialize IMU,” complete the calibration.
Step 6: Re-pair devices
If the rover and base lost their link, re-bind Bluetooth/radio and verify the data path.
Step 7: Contact support
If issues repeat, collect short logs/screenshots and contact RTKdata support or run built-in diagnostics for deeper checks.
Open RTKdata Docs
Step-by-step guidance for RTCM, NTRIP credentials, mountpoints, and correction-age checks.
Preventing RTK problems
- Clean and check hardware regularly; replace worn antennas and cables early.
- Keep a secure backup of all NTRIP credentials and profiles.
- Mount antennas with a clear sky view; reduce multipath and interference.
- Watch correction age and status at the start of every session.
- Restart after network or setting changes; schedule firmware/software updates.
- For robotics or auto-steer, enable holdover/fallback to ride through brief outages.
Why choose RTKdata for reliable RTK corrections
RTKdata delivers stable correction streams, broad regional coverage, and responsive support. Need a quick test? Start a free trial. Have complex setups or coverage questions? Book a session with our team.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I have RTK Fix?
Check status: Fix vs Float vs Single. For full accuracy you want RTK Fix and a correction age near or under 1 s.
What causes most RTK problems?
Connection dropouts, blocked sky view, RF interference, bad cables, or misconfigured NTRIP settings.
What should I check first when accuracy drops?
Confirm internet, inspect antenna/cables, verify NTRIP, and move to open sky.
How do I validate NTRIP settings?
Re-enter host, port, username, password, and mountpoint, save, restart, and confirm corrections flow.
When should I contact RTKdata support?
If issues persist after all 7 steps, collect logs/screenshots and contact support or book a meeting for setup help.