The essential piece of equipment for satellite location is the gnss receiver. They translate signals from observable satellites into an earthly location. The number of constellations the receiver is able to receive, such as gps, glonass, galileo, and beidou, determines how many satellites are visible.
We developed and regularly update this comprehensive review of gnss receivers from all significant manufacturers. Read our buyers’ guide below to find out what to take into account when choosing and purchasing a receiver.
8 things to take into account when choosing and purchasing a gnss receiver
The primary function of gnss receivers is to provide an accurate real-time location utilizing a variety of satellite constellations. But just like with every product, there are differences in receiver characteristics and cost.
The gnss receiver for sale in market is competitive, with bigger and smaller firms offering receivers with a variety of specs and extra features including built-in interfaces, bluetooth connectivity, shock- and water-resistant housing, and more.
The majority of receivers are up to a high level in terms of rtk accuracy and the number of monitored signals. Since high-precision measurements are no longer restricted to well-known companies, consumers may choose other, more affordable investments without sacrificing the accuracy of the data.
When investing, there are a lot of other things to consider. Purchasing a receiver with inadequate specifications for the task might result in lost measurements and thousands of dollars in repair or replacement expenses. When selecting a receiver, the following elements should be taken into account:
1. Measurements
The size of the receiver may influence a buying decision depending on the application. When comparing goods, it’s critical to know the maximum dimension a receiver may have because compact receivers frequently cost more.
2. Body weight
There are several reasons why the weight of a receiver may be significant, especially when it is mounted on moving equipment like drones, unmanned aerial vehicles, or even portable equipment.
It is crucial to establish whether there is a weight restriction in order to take into account the relative importance of these components in relation to their relative weight because the weight is frequently impacted by elements like power sources, enclosures, antennae, and other components.
3. Composition and toughness
There are several contexts and environments where gnss receivers are employed. The buyer must specify the circumstances and duration under which the recipient will be subjected. Knowing these factors helps the buyer avoid overspending on a receiver that is too robust for the task at hand while also ensuring that the equipment will be able to endure the working environment.
4. Accurate and monitored signals
Numerous gnss receivers currently meet a high degree of precision, as was previously noted. However, there are variations in companies and items, so a buyer should constantly review the specs to be certain.
Some satellite constellations may be more crucial than others depending on the area where the receiver will be utilized. Here is a list of constellations along with each constellation’s primary coverage area:
System\sowner\scoverage
Galileo europe, global gps, north america, global beidou, global glonass, global qzss, japan, and regional irnss/navic,
5. Battery life, internal and external power supplies, and operating power
Depending on the application, a receiver’s battery life and/or power source are crucial factors to take into account. For many mobile applications, including portable devices and uavs, receivers with built-in battery packs are useful. Additionally, in the event that an external power supply fails, an internal power source can guarantee the continuation of measurements. Different power sources may be needed for particular applications, which makes them another area where expenses might be reduced.
6. Capturing
A gnss receiver may record several types of information at different rates, including location and other types of data. A button click or other action can start recording, but a receiver can also continuously update the location as needed for uavs.
In most settings, the needed frequency of position updates is crucial, thus the attached receiver needs to be able to do this duty. Different file formats can be recorded by different receivers, and not all receivers support internal recording storage.
7. Capacity for storage
When the receiver isn’t linked to any external devices or networks, for instance, the ability to save recorded data may be a necessary function. Similar to internal battery packs, internal data storage can guard against data loss in the event that the receiver loses contact with an external storage device.
The maximal storage capacity and the frequency at which measurements are recorded have an impact on the receiver’s cost. To determine the minimal recording and storage needs, it is necessary to examine the configuration in which the receiver will operate.
Different formats might be used to transmit the measured data. Check whether formats work with the other hardware and software before you buy.
8. Interaction
There are several methods by which a receiver can connect with external processors, computers, and interfaces. There are wired and wireless (wi-fi/bluetooth) connections available, and the configuration will determine which is preferable for communication.
Knowing which kind of communication is necessary for a setup may help save money on an investment, as well as on the receiver’s space, weight, and energy use.
Communication channel
Some receivers come with customized interfaces that may be used to offer an interface on a connected computer, either built-in or provided with accessory software. However, an interface won’t always be necessary or useful, and a consumer shouldn’t pay more for it if it is unnecessary.
Alerts an alarm that can be generated on movement, a change in signal, or any other event is typical to use on remote receivers. As these features are frequently utilized in more specialized applications and need more built-in processing, such systems will push the receiver into a higher price range.
In conclusion
Gnss receivers are essential parts of the majority of remote stations, uavs, and measurement setups in general. Without an exact location, geo-measurements are rarely useful, thus purchasing a gnss receiver to supply this position is a serious decision.
High precision measures are becoming more and more standardized in the present competitive market, giving consumers the ability to compare receivers from major manufacturers with those from alternative, smaller rival firms.
The consumer has the option to just spend on the receiver’s essential functions thanks to the wide range of receivers available, from high-end waterproof goods to simple sensors.
