Sparkfun RTK Torch as RTK base with GCS

Ground Control Software QGroundControl
1

Hi,
I use the following RTK configuration (in an environment without internet connection)

  1. GPS RTK Antenna with RS232 output
  2. RS232 USB converter
  3. PC with Mission Planner
  4. RTK base configuration in mission planner
  5. This RTK Base station PC is connection on the Wifi Access point of my Android RC, running QGC
  6. QGC Android integrates this RTK data to send it to the drone to use the RTK corrections in-flight (rover)

I would like to simplify the setup, especially steps 1 to 5 above with an all-in-one RTK base station include several outputs (USB, Wifi, ethernet).

I have found the RTK Torch from Sparkfun,
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/25662

Did someone already use it?
Do you have any advice/suggestion about this setup?
Thank you

2

Ì built a DIY version of the RTK torch a while back, for approx $330usd
It gets a lot of use both as a base station, and for precision surveying.

  • Ardusimple F9P
  • Survey grade antenna
  • ESP8266 running esp-link software
  • Rechargable drill battery and 5v regulator
  • HC06 Bluetooth adapter (easy connection from phone, and works around android wifi=internet bug)

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With ESP-link - it will join my wifi if it finds it. If it doesnt - it will create an AP i can connect to.

Connecting to the ESP-link IP address port 23 will recieve whatever the GPS sends out eg RTCM if configured in the GPS.

Mission planner connects via TCP 192.168.4.1 port 23 for RTK corrections

This solution provides wifi, bluetooth, usb connections but not ethernet.

This connection guide may help https://www.ardusimple.com/wifi-ntrip-master-hookup-guide/
(it uses thier ESP32 connection hardware/softare not esplink on esp8266 like i do.

I also use GNSS Master and SW maps android apps (both free and excellent) to do mapping.

I note - the DIY route takes a while and i had a few steep leaning curves, If you dont have spare time, then the RTK Torch looks pretty good.

Hint : Always set baud rates to 460800 on F9P for ESPlink as mission planner hardcodes this.
This is excellent : https://www.ardusimple.com/how-to-use-ardusimple-products-with-android-smartphones-tablets/

3

If you’re connecting your RTK setup to a laptop with MP then here’s another cheap option:

It will only give you the USB output, so it’s limited in that way but it’s got to be one of the cheapest ways to get an RTK base station. I don’t use it a lot, and I remember the initial setup was a bit of confusion, but the documentation got me through and it works. Did I mention it’s cheap?

4

Hello, thank you for your answers
@ kiwiPaul, I think I’ll get the Torch, your tips will help for the setup
@ Allister I already have such GPS antennas with USB but it isn’t fully compatible with my need since I’m looking for a wireless connection (no wire on the remote control with QGC) and QGC natively support Wifi connection. (And yes, it’s quite cheap ;-))

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