Is RTK training cost high? The "minimum knowledge" field members should learn

Table of Contents

• Introduction

• What is RTK?

• Benefits of RTK

• Challenges when introducing RTK

• The minimum knowledge field members should learn

• Ways to reduce RTK training costs

• Simple surveying with LRTK

• FAQ

Introduction

RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) positioning is a technology that uses satellite positioning with corrections applied to obtain centimeter-level high-accuracy positions in real time. In recent years, RTK has been increasingly used not only in surveying and construction but also across various outdoor fields such as railway and highway infrastructure inspection, drone surveying, and automated agriculture.

The benefits of highly accurate position information are immense, but when introducing a new technology on site, people often worry, "Will we be able to use it properly?" or "Will it take a lot of time and effort to learn?" RTK positioning, in particular, carries a technical impression, and many assume that teaching every field member would be difficult and that the training cost (time and effort for staff to acquire the skill) will be high. As a result, some hesitate to adopt high-precision technology.

But is RTK training cost really that high? What exactly constitutes the "minimum knowledge" needed on site? This article explains. By focusing on key points and mastering the basics, and by using user-friendly tools, even beginners can use RTK on site without undue burden. Finally, we also introduce simple surveying using the smartphone positioning solution LRTK, which further lowers the barrier to RTK use.

What is RTK?

RTK is a technology that achieves high-precision positioning by correcting position errors using two GNSS receivers. One is set up as a base station at a known location, and the other — a rover — is carried to the target to be measured. Both receivers simultaneously receive signals from the same satellites; the base station computes error information from the difference between its known precise position and the received data. This correction information is sent to the rover in real time, and by applying it to the rover’s observations, the usual meter-level positioning errors can be reduced to centimeter level.

Standalone positioning (using a single GNSS receiver) typically yields errors of about 5-10 m (16.4-32.8 ft), but RTK uses relative positioning with a base station to cancel out satellite signal error factors, achieving extremely high accuracy of about 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 in) in horizontal position and a few centimeters in elevation. Because corrections are applied in real time, high-precision coordinates can be obtained on site immediately without special post-processing.

Recently, network RTK that provides correction information without a privately set base station has become widespread. It receives correction data via mobile communications from sources such as the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan’s continuously operating reference stations, enabling centimeter-level positioning almost anywhere in Japan within cellular coverage. Also, by using CLAS, a satellite-delivered augmentation signal provided by Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System, high-precision positioning is possible even in mountain areas where internet coverage is unavailable. Thanks to technological advances, RTK positioning is becoming easier to use than before.

Benefits of RTK

Introducing RTK on site brings the following benefits:

• Dramatic improvement in positioning accuracy: Ordinary GPS positioning can be off by several meters, but RTK can determine positions with centimeter accuracy. This allows confident execution of tasks requiring high precision, such as setting out structures and managing heights.

• Greatly increased work efficiency: High-precision surveying can be performed in a short time, streamlining tasks that previously required arranging surveying teams or multiple people. A single person can walk with a GNSS rover to measure large areas, and real-time guidance for heavy machinery and as-built management become possible. For example, machine guidance for GNSS-equipped construction equipment is feasible thanks to RTK’s high accuracy.

• Real-time decision making: Because accurate coordinates are obtained on the spot, there is no need to take data back to the office for processing. You can immediately compare measurements with plans or decide on additional measurements, enabling instant responses on site.

• Improved safety: GNSS positioning can measure without line of sight, so measurements can be taken from a distance at dangerous locations such as cliffs or retaining walls. Equipping drones with RTK allows surveying of areas inaccessible to people, reducing risk to workers.

• Support for new technologies and automation: RTK is the foundation for next-generation technologies like autonomous driving and automated control of construction equipment. Examples such as robotic tractors in agriculture and unmanned surveying by drones, whose practical application is advancing thanks to RTK, are increasing. Adopting high-precision positioning directly supports on-site DX (digital transformation).

Challenges when introducing RTK

While RTK offers excellent benefits, there are some challenges when introducing it on site. On the equipment side, the initial investment tends to be large for high-precision GNSS receivers, base station equipment, and communication infrastructure. High-performance GNSS equipment is expensive, which can deter adoption on small to medium sites. Ongoing costs such as positioning service fees and equipment maintenance also need consideration.

The human and training aspect is another significant hurdle. The construction industry is experiencing shortages of surveying and construction management personnel and an aging workforce, making training staff to handle new technologies an urgent issue. Operating RTK equipment and GNSS-specific knowledge involve technical expertise, so historically experienced surveyors or technicians handled them. Training staff to operate in the field is indispensable, but it is not easy to train newcomers from scratch amid busy work. Bringing equipment to the field without sufficient training can lead to setup or measurement mistakes, resulting in poor accuracy and rework.

For example, when installing a base station, it must be set at an accurate known point; inadequate knowledge can lead to incorrect placement that shifts all positioning data. There have also been cases where operators did not know the basic requirement to hold the rover pole vertically, measuring with the pole constantly tilted and producing large errors. Human errors from lack of training — such as input mistakes in antenna height (instrument height), or recording dubious data without checking satellite count or Fix status — are common on site.

Thus, RTK introduction poses both the “cost of acquiring equipment” and the “cost for people to master it.” However, the latter training cost can be greatly reduced with some ingenuity. The next section outlines the basic knowledge field members should at least grasp and ways to reduce the training burden.

The minimum knowledge field members should learn

You do not need expert-level deep knowledge to use RTK on site. Below are the basic points that on-site personnel should minimally understand.

• Accurate installation and coordinate setting of the base station: If you set up your own base station, install it on a known point with minimal error and enter accurate coordinate values before starting positioning. Skipping this can shift all measurement results, so the base station’s installation location and initial settings are the most important points.

• Keep the rover pole vertical at all times: The pole (or staff) with the GNSS receiver must be kept vertical with a bubble level during measurement. If the pole is tilted, vertical errors increase and accurate positions cannot be obtained.

• Prevent antenna height input errors: Always measure the height to the rover antenna (instrument height) correctly each time and set it in the receiver or software. When changing pole length or using a tripod, take care not to leave the previous value by mistake.

• Check satellite count and Fix status: Before starting measurements, confirm that a sufficient number of satellites are being tracked and that the solution is not float but fixed. Only a Fix solution provides centimeter-level accuracy. Never measure while conditions are unstable; always check that the display or indicator showing “FIX” is lit.

• Be mindful of obstructions and radio environment: RTK uses satellite signals from the sky, so it performs best in open sky conditions. Tall buildings or trees nearby can block signals or cause multipath reflections, degrading accuracy or preventing maintenance of a Fix. When positioning, ensure clear lines of sight and consider antenna placement; if necessary, remeasure at a spot with fewer obstructions.

• Coordinate system consistency: Coordinates obtained by GNSS are in global geodetic systems (such as WGS84), but construction and surveying sites may use JGD2011 or custom local coordinate systems. To avoid mismatches when comparing results with drawings or design values, set the positioning device’s coordinate system to match the project. There have been cases where data delivered in a global geodetic system were tens of meters off from drawing coordinates. Recent devices and services often have automatic coordinate transformation functions, but it’s helpful to habitually check observed results against known points after measurement.

Ways to reduce RTK training costs

If you cover the basic rules outlined above, field members can handle RTK surveying. To further reduce training effort, the following measures are effective.

• Standardize operating procedures: Create in-house manuals for RTK setup and measurement procedures so anyone can follow consistent steps. Prepare checklists that explicitly state items to confirm each time — for example, “confirm base station coordinates,” “keep pole vertical,” “re-enter antenna height,” “check FIX status” — so newcomers can perform tasks without omissions.

• Use hands-on training and OJT: Conduct training not only in the classroom but also in real or simulated field environments. Initially, have an experienced person demonstrate operations, then let the newcomer try under OJT supervision to gain experience. After a few site visits, they will grasp the workflow, so early practical participation accelerates skill acquisition.

• Choose easy-to-understand tools: If possible, adopt intuitive RTK systems to reduce training costs. Some dedicated devices have many settings and take time to master, but recent RTK apps for smartphones and tablets have appeared. These allow positioning by following menus and have clear displays; with such tools, beginners can become proficient quickly.

• Develop a “site surveying lead”: Not everyone needs advanced skills, but having a team member who is well-versed in RTK as a leader is reassuring. That person can teach others, support troubles on site, and improve overall training efficiency. Aim for a system where know-how circulates internally and skills accumulate on site without relying on external training.

Simple surveying with LRTK

A representative example of “easy-to-understand tools” mentioned above is the smartphone-based RTK system LRTK. LRTK is a solution that attaches a dedicated compact GNSS receiver to a smartphone and performs positioning and data management via an app. Unlike conventional dedicated equipment, operation is completed on a smartphone screen that users are already familiar with, so surveying can start without worrying about complicated specialized settings. Using an existing smartphone also lowers initial investment and reduces the adoption barrier.

For example, following menu prompts is often enough to receive correction information from a base station and to switch positioning modes or record with a single tap. The positioning status (Fix/Float) is indicated by color icons for easy recognition, and coordinate systems are automatically converted to JGD2011, so users need not worry about detailed calculations or adjustments. The app-style interface allows field personnel to operate intuitively like a smartphone app, significantly reducing training cost. As a result, new employees or those who switched from other industries can learn to operate in a short time and become effective on site.

LRTK does more than simply measure positions; by integrating the smartphone’s camera and sensors, it supports overall field work. You can take photos and save notes for each point while surveying, and easily share data in the cloud with your team. Sharing data and know-how internally levels skills across the team without relying on a specific veteran, improving training efficiency. Moreover, LRTK can continue high-precision positioning even where there is no communication infrastructure by directly receiving CLAS signals provided by Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System. This makes it useful for survey work in disaster-affected sites where communication is severed or in mountainous areas. Precision positioning that was once left to specialized surveying departments is becoming “simple surveying anyone can do” thanks to LRTK. As a trump card for embedding high-precision positioning on site, LRTK supports both reduced training burden and lower operational costs. If your site hesitates to introduce RTK because training seems difficult, using a simple surveying system like LRTK can greatly reduce the burden and allow you to adopt high-precision technology. Actively adopt the latest tools to promote on-site DX while keeping training costs down.

FAQ

Q: What is RTK? A: RTK is a technology that corrects GNSS (satellite positioning) errors to perform high-precision positioning in real time. Two receivers — a base station and a rover — observe satellites simultaneously, and using correction information from the base station, positions can be determined to within a few centimeters.

Q: How accurate is RTK positioning? A: Under good conditions, horizontal accuracy is about 1-2 cm, and vertical errors are within a few centimeters. This is far more accurate than standalone GPS positioning and is sufficient for precise construction and surveying. However, accuracy can deteriorate depending on the surrounding environment and satellite geometry.

Q: Can inexperienced people use RTK? A: Yes. With basic operational procedures and precautions, inexperienced people can perform RTK surveying. By following the points in this article — keeping the pole vertical, entering antenna height correctly, and checking Fix status — non-experts can utilize centimeter-level positioning on site. Smartphone app–type RTK devices have also appeared, making intuitive operation easier for beginners.

Q: What is needed to introduce RTK? A: Generally, a high-precision RTK-capable GNSS receiver and a means of obtaining correction information are required. If you set up your own base station, you need two receivers (one for the base and one for the rover) and radio communication equipment; with network RTK, a single rover receiver and a communication line (such as a mobile network) are sufficient. In the latter case, you subscribe to correction services provided by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan or private providers to receive correction data. With LRTK, you only need a smartphone, a compact receiver, and an app, and you can continue positioning even outside communication coverage by using CLAS satellite signals.

Q: Is any qualification or license required to use RTK equipment? A: Generally, no specific public qualification is required just to operate RTK positioning. Anyone can learn to operate it through training. However, there are cases where radio law licensing procedures are required if you use certain radio transmissions from a base station (many commercial RTK devices use specified low-power radios or the internet, which do not require licenses). Also, officially certifying surveying results requires national qualifications such as a licensed surveyor, but for on-site precision control, in-house training is usually sufficient.