SparkFun RTK Express

The SparkFun RTK Express is a GNSS receiver that offers centimeter-level positioning. This makes it ideal for surveying, logging, post-processing, autonomous driving, navigation, and asset tracking. It can also function as a base station, creating an RTK system with a 14mm horizontal positional accuracy. Its built-in Bluetooth® connection allows it to work with any GIS application on a phone or tablet. With over five hours of battery life, it is perfect for extended field use.

The RTK Express is compatible with popular GIS software for Android and iOS, including SW Maps, Field Genius, SurvPC, Survey Master, Vespucci, QGIS, QField, and any GIS software that supports NMEA over Bluetooth.

Based on the same ZED-F9P u-blox receiver as the original RTK Surveyor, the RTK Express offers incredible performance and a wide range of features. The embedded display provides immediate feedback on horizontal positional accuracy, satellites in view, logging status, survey-in status, battery level, Bluetooth® MAC, and more. It also includes an accelerometer for digital leveling in the field.

The RTK Express can be used in four modes: GNSS Positioning (~30cm accuracy), GNSS Positioning with RTK (1.4cm accuracy), GNSS Base Station, and GNSS Base Station NTRIP Server.

Two cables are included with the RTK Express, allowing users to connect Serial Telemetry Radios or their own radio link. If a local correction source is within 10km, the device can also receive correction data over the Bluetooth® link from a user's phone.

Please note that the SparkFun RTK Express does not include an antenna, serial telemetry radio, or associated mounting pieces. These items will need to be purchased separately.

Features of the RTK Express include the ZED-F9P GNSS Receiver, which can concurrently receive GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou signals; the ESP32 WROOM Bluetooth® Transceiver; a 1300mAh internal battery; 3.3V TTL Serial ports for radio and data; and an embedded OLED Display. The device weighs 162g and measures 132mm x 101mm x 32mm.

This version of the RTK Express uses a reinforced edge mount SMA connector for better resiliency when a fixed 'stub' antenna is used.

Documents available include a Hookup Guide, RTK Product Manual, Schematic, Firmware Repo, and Hardware Repo. The device is also Certified OSHW: US002050.