Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning is a satellite navigation technique used to enhance the precision of position data derived from satellite-based positioning systems (like GPS).

It utilizes measurements of the phase of the signal's carrier wave in addition to the information content of the signal and relies on a single reference station or interconnected stations providing real-time corrections, providing a level of precision that can be as high as centimeter (CM) accuracy under ideal conditions.

RTK technology is widely applied in various scenarios for utility locating and mapping, thanks to its high precision and reliability.

It is particularly useful for the following situations:

Rural Areas: The open environments of rural areas, with minimal obstructions to satellite signals, make them ideal for RTK applications. Here, RTK helps in the accurate mapping of utilities buried underground or the precise location of infrastructure components.

Suburban Areas: In suburbs, RTK is used for mapping utilities and infrastructure with high accuracy. Its ability to achieve submeter to centimeter-level precision makes it invaluable for planning and maintenance operations.

Environments with Unobstructed Signal to Satellites and Base Stations: Any environment where the line of sight to satellites and the communication with base stations is unobstructed is suitable for RTK. This includes open fields, agricultural lands, and large construction sites.

RTK technology offers several significant advantages:

Fast: RTK provides real-time data, allowing for immediate decision-making and mapping. This speed is crucial in construction and surveying projects where time is of the essence.

Affordable: Compared to traditional surveying methods or other high-precision technologies, RTK systems are more cost-effective, making high-accuracy location data accessible for a wider range of projects.

Portable: RTK equipment is portable and can be easily set up and moved as needed across different locations, offering flexibility in surveying and mapping tasks.

CM Accuracy: Perhaps the most significant advantage of RTK is its ability to achieve centimeter-level accuracy under ideal conditions, making it an indispensable tool for detailed and precise mapping of utilities and infrastructure.