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Orbit Neo NTRIP RTK Setup

NTRIP RTK Setup Overview

NTRIP (Networked Transport of RTCM via Internet Protocol) provides a convenient way to receive RTK corrections from a network of reference stations. This method eliminates the need for a local base station by using commercial or public NTRIP services.

Requirements

  • Orbit Neo GPS module
  • Internet connection for the ground control station
  • NTRIP service subscription
  • Telemetry link between ground station and drone
  • Mission Planner ground control software

NTRIP Service Subscription

Subscribe to a local NTRIP provider to obtain server URL, port, mountpoint name, and login credentials for your region.

Setup with Mission Planner (Ardupilot)

Configure NTRIP Client

  1. Open Mission Planner and connect to your vehicle
  2. Navigate to Config/Tuning > Full Parameter List
  3. Set the following parameters:
    • GPS_INJECT_TO: Set to 0 to enable GPS1 to receive RTK corrections
    • GPS_RATE_MS: Set to 100 for 10Hz update rate
  4. Go to the Initial Setup tab
  5. Select Optional Hardware > RTK/GPS Inject
  6. Enter your NTRIP details:
    • Server IP/hostname and port
    • Mountpoint
    • Username and password
  7. Click Connect to establish a connection with the NTRIP server

Mission Planner NTRIP Setup

NTRIP SETUP NTRIP SUCCESS

Forward Corrections to Vehicle

  1. Select the appropriate telemetry connection port from the dropdown
  2. Set the baud rate (typically 57600)
  3. Click Start to begin forwarding RTCM3 corrections to the vehicle
  4. Check the message counter to confirm data is being received and sent

Verifying RTK Operation

Status Indicators

  1. In Mission Planner:
    • Check the RTK status indicator in the HUD
    • Status will show “RTK Float” during initial convergence
    • Status will change to “RTK Fixed” when centimeter accuracy is achieved

Performance Verification

  1. With RTK Fixed status, position hold accuracy should be within 10 cm
  2. Observe the satellite count and signal quality indicators
  3. Perform a short flight test to verify consistent positioning accuracy

Troubleshooting NTRIP Connections

  • No connection to NTRIP server: Check internet connectivity and service credentials
  • Corrections received but no RTK fix: Verify the mountpoint is appropriate for your location
  • Intermittent RTK fix: Check telemetry link quality and range
  • Float but not Fixed: Ensure you’re within the coverage area of your NTRIP service
  • Connection dropouts: Consider using a mobile internet connection with better coverage

Tips for Optimal Performance

  • Choose the closest NTRIP mountpoint to your operating location
  • Use a reliable internet connection with good bandwidth
  • Maintain clear line of sight between the drone and the sky
  • Keep the telemetry link within optimal range and line of sight
  • Allow sufficient time (1-2 minutes) for RTK to converge to a fixed solution