Many enthusiasts and professionals in the field of geodesy and navigation today use OEM equipment such as GNSS modules and antennas to create their own GNSS RTK receivers. One popular solution is to use ArduSimple modules with UBLOX ZED-F9P. However, problems often arise where the assembled receiver does not work correctly or does not display important data in geodetic programs, like SurPad 4.2. In this article, we will look at how to solve this problem and configure data output using an ArduSimple-based receiver.

Problem

When assembling your own GNSS RTK receiver using ArduSimple (microe, SparkFun etc) modules, users often encounter the issue where the receiver does not display important data in geodetic programs. This can be caused by improper configuration of the NMEA data output, leading to incomplete or incorrect information display.

Solution

To ensure your receiver correctly displays data, you need to connect it to the U-Center software and configure the NMEA data output. Here is a step-by-step guide to the setup:

1. Connecting to U-Center:

• Connect your receiver to the computer using a USB cable.

• Launch U-Center and set the appropriate COM port and Baud Rate for your device.

2. Configuring NMEA Data Output:

• In U-Center, go to the Configuration View section.

• Select the "Messages" option and enable the output of the following messages:

• GPGGA: Provides core position fix data, including latitude, longitude, altitude, and quality of fix.

• GPRMC: Provides the minimum recommended data for navigation, including time, date, latitude, longitude, speed, and course.

• GPVTG: Provides information on course and speed over ground.

• GPGLL: Provides geographic position data, including latitude and longitude.

• GPGSA: Provides information on the status of the GNSS system and used satellites.

• GPGSV: Provides information on visible satellites, their positions, and status.

• GPGST: Provides data on pseudorange error statistics.

3. Saving Settings:

• After enabling the necessary messages, save the settings to the receiver’s memory so they persist after restarting the device.

Features of SurPad 4.2

SurPad 4.2 is a powerful and user-friendly geodetic program that provides a wide range of functions for conducting topographic surveys and geodetic measurements. The main features of SurPad 4.2 include:

• Support for Various Types of GNSS Receivers: SurPad 4.2 is compatible with many GNSS devices, making it a versatile tool for surveyors.

• RTK and Post-Processing Data Implementation: The program supports RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) and PPK (Post-Processing Kinematic) modes, ensuring high measurement accuracy.

• Creating and Editing Topographic Plans: SurPad 4.2 provides tools for creating, editing, and analyzing topographic data.

• Integration with GIS: The program allows integration with various Geographic Information Systems for more comprehensive data analysis and processing.

• User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive interface makes working with the program simple and efficient, allowing users to quickly learn and start utilizing all its features.
 

Building your own GNSS RTK receiver using OEM modules is a great opportunity for enthusiasts and professionals. However, it is important to correctly configure data output to ensure the receiver displays all necessary information in geodetic programs such as SurPad 4.2. By following the instructions above, you can quickly and easily configure your receiver and avoid data display issues.

If you have encountered similar problems and found other solutions, share them in the comments! Your experience can be valuable to other users facing similar challenges.