RTK GPS for Beginners: Setup Costs, Equipment & Field Tips (2026)

Table of Contents

• Introduction

• What is RTK GPS? (Overview of High‑Accuracy Positioning)

• Benefits of Introducing RTK GPS

• Equipment and Preparations Needed for Introduction

• Private Base Station Method vs. Network RTK Method

• Costs Involved in Introduction

• Steps to Introduce RTK GPS (Step‑by‑Step)

• Practical Tips for Field Application of RTK GPS

• Legal Requirements and Cautions at Introduction

• Simple Surveying with LRTK (A New Approach)

• FAQ

Introduction

On construction survey and civil engineering sites, conventional GPS positioning can produce errors of several meters, making accuracy insufficient in some cases. The technology attracting attention to address this issue is RTK GPS positioning. By using RTK (Real Time Kinematic), relative positioning with two GNSS receivers (a base station and a rover) cancels error sources and enables highly accurate position measurements within a few centimeters. Being able to obtain high‑accuracy position information on site immediately improves surveying efficiency and the precision of construction management, and it is increasingly used in a wide range of fields such as smart construction (i‑Construction) and precision agriculture.

This article provides a comprehensive explanation for those introducing RTK GPS for the first time, covering the basic mechanism, required equipment, introduction procedures, costs, on‑site usage tips, and legal cautions. In the latter part of the article, we also introduce LRTK, a new solution that can achieve high‑accuracy positioning more easily than traditional methods. This complete guide is intended to help beginner to intermediate survey personnel form a concrete image of RTK GPS introduction.

What is RTK GPS? (Overview of High‑Accuracy Positioning)

RTK GPS (Real Time Kinematic positioning) is a positioning method that uses two GNSS receivers—a base station and a rover—to compute positions with high accuracy in real time. Standalone GPS positioning typically produces position deviations on the order of about 5–10 m (16.4–32.8 ft) due to satellite signal errors, but with RTK a base station is installed at a known precise coordinate point, the errors in the satellite data it receives are calculated, and correction information is generated. This correction information is sent to the rover, and by applying the correction to its own positioning results, the rover can cancel error sources and achieve centimeter‑level accuracy.

The key point of RTK positioning is that both receivers observe signals from the same satellites, allowing common errors (satellite clock errors, ionospheric and tropospheric effects, etc.) to be canceled out. As a result, relative positioning can produce high‑accuracy coordinates in real time that ordinary GPS cannot. In other words, it can be described as a real‑time differential correction GPS.

Benefits of Introducing RTK GPS

Let’s organize the benefits you can get by introducing RTK GPS.

• Centimeter‑level high accuracy: Traditionally, millimeter or sub‑centimeter accuracy required long static observations or surveying with a total station, but RTK can secure accuracy within a few cm in a short time. It is particularly powerful in situations that require high precision, such as boundary surveys and as‑built verification.

• Immediate position acquisition: Because corrections are applied in real time, you can simply bring the rover to the point you want to measure and obtain coordinates on the spot. There is no need to perform office calculations after observation, allowing instant confirmation of results on site.

• Efficient operations and labor savings: RTK surveying does not inherently require line‑of‑sight between points. Unlike total stations, you don’t need to consider line‑of‑sight between points or set up prisms; as long as GNSS signals are received, you can measure even across obstacles. This makes surveying easier at sites with complex terrain or structures. Also, because a single worker can walk with the rover pole and collect points, one‑person surveying is possible, leading to reduced staffing and shorter work times.

• Improved safety: For survey targets on roads or at heights, GNSS enables positioning from a distance, reducing the need to enter hazardous areas. The need to place targets at height is eliminated, offering safety benefits.

• Easy digital integration: Coordinate data obtained by GNSS receivers and controllers (data collectors) can be smoothly imported into surveying CAD or GIS. Compared to handwritten field notes, direct data input reduces human error and enables instant drawing production, directly supporting digital construction management.

As shown above, introducing RTK GPS offers significant advantages in terms of accuracy, speed, and efficiency. Especially with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism promoting i‑Construction (improving construction productivity using ICT), demand for high‑accuracy GNSS surveying is likely to continue growing.

Equipment and Preparations Needed for Introduction

To operate RTK GPS you need several pieces of equipment and preparatory steps. Below are the basic elements.

• GNSS receivers (for base station and rover): At least two GNSS receivers capable of high‑accuracy positioning are required. Both receivers should be dual‑frequency or higher (L1/L2 or L5 support) suitable for RTK, and it is desirable they support multi‑GNSS such as GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS (Michibiki), not just GPS. Standard surveying GNSS antennas should also be provided for each.

• Base station mounting equipment: The receiver serving as the base station should be firmly fixed at a known point. Use dedicated tripods, poles, or brackets to secure it so it does not move, and accurately measure and record the antenna height (distance from the ground to the antenna phase center).

• Rover carrying equipment: The rover is carried by the worker to measure each point. Typically, a surveying pole about 2 m (6.6 ft) in height is used with the GNSS antenna mounted on top, and a bubble level is installed near the bottom of the pole so it can be kept vertical. In some cases the rover may be mounted on a backpack or vehicle, but most often a handheld pole style is used.

• Communication method (transmission of correction information): You need a way to deliver correction information calculated at the base station to the rover in real time. Typical methods are radio modems or Internet‑based NTRIP communication. For radio, business UHF radios or license‑exempt low‑power radios (920 MHz band) can be used to transmit directly between base and rover. With NTRIP, the base station is connected to the Internet to distribute correction data, and the rover receives that data over a cellular network. If using NTRIP, you must obtain the address and login information for the data distribution server (NTRIP caster), so arrange a correction data service contract and acquire accounts in advance.

• Power supplies and batteries: Prepare power supplies for GNSS receivers and radios. Portable batteries are standard in the field; insufficient battery capacity can halt surveying, so allow ample capacity. If a mobile device (smartphone or tablet) is used for the rover, ensure its charging is also arranged.

• Knowledge of known point coordinates: You need accurate latitude, longitude, and height (elevation or ellipsoid height) for the point where the base station is installed. For public surveys, you can use control points from the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan (e.g., GNSS reference stations or triangulation points). If installing at an arbitrary point, determine its coordinates beforehand by long static observation or separate RTK measurement, or set an approximate value and perform localization later against known points.

The basic prerequisites can be summarized simply as the “three‑point set” required to start RTK surveying: "a GNSS receiver for the base station + a GNSS receiver for the rover", "a communication method connecting both stations", and "accurate coordinates for the base station".

Private Base Station Method vs. Network RTK Method

There are two main ways to obtain RTK correction information.

• Operate by installing your own base station (private base station RTK)

• Receive correction information using an existing reference station network (network RTK)

Below we compare their characteristics, merits, and demerits.

● Characteristics of the private base station method: You install your own GNSS receiver for the base station near the site and transmit correction information to the rover by radio. For example, in a construction site using private RTK, you fix one receiver at a local known point (e.g., a fourth‑order triangulation point) and the operator carries a second receiver (the rover) for surveying. A main advantage is that direct communication between base and rover avoids dependence on external communication infrastructure. This allows RTK positioning to continue in mountainous areas or locations without cellular coverage, as long as radio range permits. Once you have your own base station, you can avoid external service fees, which can be cost‑effective if you conduct RTK surveys frequently over the long term. You can also operate multiple rovers simultaneously without per‑unit subscription fees, since one base can distribute corrections to many rovers. Installing the base at a known point yields stable accuracy, and keeping the distance (baseline) between base and rover short reduces residual errors and maintains high accuracy. Drawbacks include higher initial hurdles: you need a full set of base‑station equipment (receiver, antenna, radio, tripod, batteries, etc.), resulting in larger initial investment. Setup and managing base points require expertise, so inexperienced users may find introduction cumbersome. If using licensed radios, radio station registration and license acquisition are required. If the working area is wide, a single base may not cover the whole range, requiring repeated relocations.

● Characteristics of the network RTK method: This method receives correction information over the Internet from a preexisting network of reference stations, such as GNSS reference station networks managed by the Geospatial Information Authority or private VRS services. An advantage is that required equipment can be minimized to just the rover receiver, making on‑site setup simple. It is an accessible option for newcomers to RTK or those unfamiliar with surveying equipment. Because you only need to power on and connect to the service to receive corrections, it is particularly effective for short‑duration surveys or spot high‑accuracy positioning. If cellular coverage is available, you can move over a wide area while continuously receiving corrections, which is convenient for surveying on the move or for teams moving between multiple sites. Disadvantages include recurring running costs for using external services—many network RTK services charge monthly fees or licensing costs that accumulate over long periods. When multiple receivers are used simultaneously, each may require a contract, increasing costs. Coverage limitations can also apply; while nationwide reference networks exist in Japan, some regions (remote islands, overseas) may have limited network RTK availability. Service providers may use different geodetic datums or height systems, so you may need to convert coordinates to the system required for your work. Depending on third‑party services introduces risks of temporary unavailability due to server maintenance, and network RTK cannot be used in areas without cellular coverage.

● Which is easier for first‑time users?: Generally, network RTK wins in terms of ease of initial introduction. With fewer devices and simpler setup, it is especially suitable for beginners who want to try RTK. Conversely, if you need to operate regardless of communication environment, the private base station method offers more freedom. In remote mountainous areas with no communication infrastructure, a private base station may be the only solution. Also, if you survey the same site daily, installing a base station once can provide stable, repeatable control and feel more convenient in the long run. Conclusion: the current mainstream approach is a two‑step strategy: start easily with network RTK to build know‑how, and consider a private base station later as needed. Use the service first to accumulate operational experience, and if usage frequency increases and cost/opportunity benefits justify it, introduce your own base station.

Costs Involved in Introduction

Costs for introducing RTK GPS vary widely depending on the chosen method and equipment configuration. Below is a rough cost guideline.

• Equipment purchase costs: Conventional surveying GNSS systems (dual‑frequency receivers from major manufacturers, base + rover sets) typically required an initial investment of several million yen. High‑performance antennas, controllers (data collectors), and radio modems increase the total cost. However, in recent years, low‑cost GNSS chipsets and simplified high‑accuracy receivers have emerged, and equipment that can be introduced at relatively affordable price ranges (from several hundred thousand yen) is increasingly available. For example, if you use network RTK with only a rover, you may only need a high‑accuracy GNSS receiver and compatible app, allowing you to start for under ¥1,000,000 in some cases. Conversely, if you set up a full private base station, plan on ¥2,000,000–¥3,000,000 or more for two receivers plus peripheral equipment.

• Communication costs: For network RTK, there are correction service fees. These vary by provider and contract, but monthly fees from several thousand to several tens of thousands of yen are typical. Some annual contracts may cost several hundred thousand yen, and long‑term use accumulates significant total costs. With a private base station using radio, external service fees are unnecessary, but licensed radio equipment may incur radio station license acquisition costs and maintenance expenses. License‑exempt low‑power radios have almost no maintenance costs but have limited range.

• Training and introduction support costs: Introducing new surveying equipment involves training costs. You may attend manufacturer or dealer training and need a trial period to gain proficiency. Internal training time and the effort to prepare manuals are non‑trivial. Including these non‑visible costs in your plan is prudent.

• Total cost comparison: From a long‑term perspective, private base stations have high upfront costs but for organizations that survey frequently, they may become cheaper than paying recurring service fees. Conversely, for spot or short‑term projects, using network RTK can be more cost‑effective than buying expensive equipment. The key is to choose based on operational cost‑effectiveness. Additionally, low‑cost smartphone‑based RTK solutions (such as LRTK described later) are reducing initial costs and lowering the introduction barrier.

Note: This article refrains from listing specific product names or prices, but many manufacturers offer RTK‑capable equipment across various price ranges. Compare multiple options and choose equipment and services that match your needs.

Steps to Introduce RTK GPS (Step‑by‑Step)

Below is a step‑by‑step flow to get started with RTK surveying. Details vary by equipment and environment, but this overview helps you understand the whole process.

• Base station installation and preparation The first step in starting RTK positioning is to install the GNSS receiver that will serve as the base station. Choose and fix the base point (ideally a triangulation point or other known point), secure the antenna on a tripod, and measure and input the antenna height. Set the receiver to base station mode and register the precise coordinates of that point in the receiver or software. If you know the public coordinate values, input them; if not, you can temporarily set an approximate value and perform localization later. If connecting the base station to the Internet, enable online access via a SIM card or mobile router and configure the NTRIP caster information (address, port, mount point, login ID/PW) to start distributing correction data. For radio transmission, set the transmitter frequency channel and output and ensure communication with the rover is possible. Monitor the base station’s satellite reception status (number of satellites and DOP) to ensure stable data collection.

• Rover startup and connection Next, power on the rover GNSS receiver and configure it to receive corrections from the base station. Mount the rover antenna on the pole and set the antenna height if needed. For NTRIP, input the same caster information on the rover and connect in client mode. Check correction data reception on the rover device or connected tablet (look for “Connected” or correction reception indicators). For radio, power the rover radio and set it to the same channel to receive. Once set properly, the rover will begin to receive corrections from the base station.

• Confirm establishment of RTK solution (Fix) After the rover receives corrections, check the solution status from the receiver. Initially the rover will be in Single mode (no corrections). With corrections applied, it becomes Float, and finally converges to Fixed. A fixed solution (Fix) means integer carrier‑phase ambiguity resolution has been achieved, indicating centimeter‑level accuracy. In open sky conditions, Fix is often achieved in tens of seconds to a few minutes. Confirm that the rover shows a “FIX” indicator or acceptable precision metrics (standard deviation) on the display. Whether the Fix remains stable is a key indicator of RTK functioning properly.

• Measuring points Once you have an RTK fixed solution, proceed to survey target points. Move the rover to each point, place the antenna (pole tip) over the point, keep it still for several seconds to stabilize, then press the data collector or app’s “Start Observation” or “Record Point” button to log coordinates. Many systems automatically average positions for several seconds before saving, or let you choose instantaneous recording. Always keep the pole vertical; pole tilt causes coordinate errors, so check the bubble and maintain verticality (some receivers have tilt‑compensation, but vertical placement is the standard practice). When surveying multiple points, prepare a point name/number list in advance so you can link recorded coordinates to names. Importing a point list into the app and selecting points while surveying helps avoid confusion later.

• Check and save results After surveying all necessary points, verify and save the collected data. If possible on site, re‑measure a known control point and compare the measured coordinates with official coordinates to validate system accuracy (within a few cm is acceptable). If there is a large discrepancy, check for input errors in the base station coordinates or datum differences. If everything is fine, securely save all collected points. Data collectors typically store coordinate lists in internal memory, so back up or sync to the cloud. Finally, power off and pack equipment. After outdoor work, remember to recharge batteries and perform equipment cleaning and inspection.

These are the typical steps for RTK surveying. On first introduction you may encounter questions at each step, but understanding the basic flow should help you handle on‑site situations calmly.

Practical Tips for Field Application of RTK GPS

Here are several tips and cautions to help RTK surveying run smoothly on site. Pay attention to the following points to maintain high accuracy and avoid troubles.

• Ensure a favorable positioning environment: GNSS signals suffer when sky visibility is poor, reducing the number of tracked satellites and causing multipath (reflections). Place the base and rover in as open areas as possible. In areas between buildings or with dense trees, fixed solution acquisition may take longer or accuracy may be unstable, so consider slightly relocating points or changing observation time to periods with better satellite geometry. Vertical accuracy is especially affected by ionospheric effects, so allow extra observation time where necessary.

• Distance between base and rover: If the base is too far from the rover, localized atmospheric differences can leave residual errors even for common error sources. Generally, a shorter baseline yields better accuracy. Within a few kilometers baseline, errors are typically within a few cm, but beyond 10 km, time to fix and stability tend to worsen. For network RTK, the distance to the virtual reference point affects results. For wide‑area surveys, consider relocating a private base closer to the site center or dividing the area into sections.

• Coordinate systems and height systems: Coordinates obtained with RTK depend on the coordinate system set at the base station. If you input coordinates in the Japan Geodetic Datum (e.g., JGD2011), results will be in that system; if you input WGS84 values, results will be in WGS84. Always confirm that the coordinate and height systems match those required for deliverables. Network RTK services also specify which datum they provide (e.g., a specific plane rectangular coordinate zone), so transform if necessary. GNSS heights are typically ellipsoid heights; converting to orthometric heights (elevation) requires a geoid model. If elevations are needed in survey deliverables, use GSI geoid values or tie into known benchmark elevations.

• Stable equipment operation: Monitor GNSS receivers and radio battery levels. Carry spare batteries for long surveys, and be aware of capacity loss in cold climates. Keep firmware and software updated to avoid known bugs. Avoid moving the receiver or crowding the antenna with people during observations, as this can affect accuracy.

• Handling communication issues: For NTRIP, check local cellular reception. If you enter a coverage gap, corrections stop and the solution may revert to Float. In mountainous areas, consider placing a pocket Wi‑Fi or smartphone at a higher location, or prepare a SIM from another carrier. For radio, if line‑of‑sight is blocked or distances are too far, communication drops. License‑exempt low‑power radios realistically have a line‑of‑sight limit of about 1 km. For larger ranges, consider repeaters or higher‑power radios (which may require licenses). Watch for radio interference from nearby equipment; changing channels or switching from Wi‑Fi tethering to USB tethering for NTRIP can sometimes improve stability.

• Accuracy verification and troubleshooting: Perform equipment checks and test observations before going to the field. Especially during initial introduction, verify accuracy by surveying known points. If you experience issues such as inability to obtain a fixed solution or no correction reception, methodically isolate causes: move to a more open location, check that corrections are being received on the rover, ensure both base and rover are set to the same GNSS systems and frequencies, and verify the base coordinate input. Restarting equipment in the order base → rover can resolve some problems. If unresolved, change observation timing to when satellite geometry is better, or switch to a different base or correction service. Typical trouble examples and remedies are covered in the FAQ below.

Legal Requirements and Cautions at Introduction

When introducing and operating RTK GPS, pay attention to related laws and systems. Main points are listed below.

• Survey Act and public surveys: In Japan, surveying operations are regulated under the Survey Act. Ordinary internal surveying by private companies usually does not require special permission, but public surveys whose results are accepted by national or local governments (e.g., mapping or surveys for public works) require surveyor registration, assignment of licensed surveyors, and compliance with operational regulations. GNSS‑based public surveys must follow guidelines set by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan. As part of this, using GNSS equipment that has passed the GSI performance test (so‑called “Class 1 GNSS surveying equipment”) is recommended. However, this is a standard for high‑trust public surveys; private construction surveys or as‑built checks do not always require Class 1 equipment. The important thing is to use equipment and methods that meet the accuracy and reliability required by the intended application. Even for in‑house surveys, if results feed into official drawings or boundary determinations, perform them under supervision of licensed surveyors where appropriate.

• Frequency bands and Radio Law compliance: If you use radio to transmit correction information from the base, ensure the radio equipment is compliant with Radio Law. In Japan, license‑exempt low‑power radios (e.g., 920 MHz band under 10 mW) can be used without a license but have limited range. For longer distances using high‑power radios (e.g., digital simple mobile radio in the 351 MHz band or UHF business radios of 1 W+), you must apply to the relevant communications bureau for a radio station license. Radio station licenses may require certified radio operators, so if you lack in‑house expertise, using license‑exempt communications (cellular or low‑power radios) is safer. Also use devices with technical conformity certification (GITEI/technical conformity) to avoid being classified as unauthorized radio stations.

• Handling of survey results: When using RTK GPS results for official deliverables (e.g., cadastral surveys or public works), verify that the achieved accuracy and methods are appropriate. For tasks requiring millimeter‑level precision, combine GNSS surveying with total stations for verification. For electronic deliverables, organize coordinates according to required formats (e.g., GSI SIMA format). Even after introducing RTK, do not neglect classical surveying knowledge and legal requirements—tools change, but surveying fundamentals remain.

• Certifications and conformity: As mentioned, there are public certifications such as Class 1 GNSS surveying equipment, but some modern smartphone‑linked GNSS receivers may not be registered. This does not necessarily imply insufficient accuracy; manufacturers may not apply for registration due to cost or market factors. There are cases where unregistered simplified GNSS devices achieve performance comparable to Class 1 devices when validated. However, for public surveys, registered equipment is generally required; for typical construction surveys and as‑built checks, unregistered devices may still be used after in‑house validation.

In short, RTK GPS introduction requires technical consideration as well as legal and procedural compliance. In most cases, common‑sense precautions are sufficient, but if in doubt, consult a licensed surveyor or specialist.

Simple Surveying with LRTK (A New Approach)

As covered above, traditional RTK approaches typically involve either installing your own base station or subscribing to an external network RTK service. Recently, however, new approaches have emerged to further reduce this burden and enable easier high‑accuracy positioning. One such approach is LRTK. LRTK is a smartphone‑linked positioning solution designed to minimize specialized equipment and complicated settings and to make “cm‑level positioning usable by anyone” as intuitively as possible.

LRTK combines a dedicated compact GNSS receiver with a smartphone app to achieve RTK‑grade high accuracy with remarkably simple procedures. For example, attaching a receiver to a smartphone and holding it in your hand, you can press a button in the app at the point to be measured and immediately obtain high‑accuracy coordinates for that point. It can also provide vertical positioning not achievable with standalone GPS; horizontal accuracy reaches approximately ±1–2 cm (±0.4–0.8 in), and vertical accuracy is within a few centimeters, reaching practical surveying levels. Operation is highly intuitive, eliminating most of the complicated setup and on‑site adjustments required by conventional RTK equipment.

Unlike conventional RTK, LRTK users do not need to prepare a private base station or subscribe to an external correction service. Proprietary algorithms using cloud correction data and multi‑point observations enable a single receiver to achieve centimeter‑level accuracy. Obtained coordinates are automatically transformed into Japanese reference coordinate systems and displayed on a map, with post‑processing and data management handled in the cloud. In short, with just a smartphone and an LRTK device, even non‑surveying specialists can easily perform precise surveying.

LRTK can be seen as a third option that eliminates the downsides of both private base stations and network RTK. Its compact, portable equipment, lack of need to arrange communication environments, and one‑button on‑site operation provide convenience unmatched by traditional methods. Of course, the optimal positioning method depends on site conditions and purpose, but for those who want to try high‑accuracy surveying more casually or need high‑precision positioning without specialized expertise, LRTK is a very promising solution. Cutting‑edge technology is making centimeter‑level positioning increasingly accessible.

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between RTK and conventional GPS positioning? A: Standalone GPS (GNSS) determines position only from satellite signals and typically has errors of about 5–10 m (16.4–32.8 ft). RTK uses correction information from a base station to cancel error sources, enabling positioning at centimeter‑level accuracy. The biggest difference is that RTK dramatically increases positioning accuracy compared to conventional GPS.

Q: What accuracy can be obtained with RTK surveying? A: Under suitable conditions, RTK surveying can typically achieve horizontal positions of about ±1–3 cm (±0.4–1.2 in) and vertical accuracy of about ±3–5 cm (±1.2–2.0 in). Accuracy depends on baseline length to the base station and satellite reception conditions. A shorter baseline and open sky yield better results; with multi‑GNSS and multi‑frequency receivers you can improve and stabilize accuracy further.

Q: How much does it cost to introduce an RTK surveying system? A: Costs vary by equipment and method. A high‑performance surveying GNSS set for base and rover can reach several million yen. Buying only a rover and using network RTK can start from several hundred thousand to around ¥1,000,000. Smartphone‑based simplified RTK devices can significantly reduce initial cost. Running costs include monthly service fees for network RTK (several thousand to several tens of thousands of yen). Private base stations avoid service fees but may incur radio license and maintenance costs. Choose the setup that best matches your purpose and budget; the availability of low‑cost devices has lowered the introduction hurdle in recent years.

Q: What is required to use network RTK? A: To use network RTK you need an RTK‑capable GNSS receiver (rover) and Internet connectivity. Specifically, a receiver and antenna plus a communication terminal to connect to the correction service (a receiver with built‑in SIM or a smartphone used for tethering) are sufficient. You must contract with a network RTK service provider and register the login ID, server information, and coordinate system in the receiver or app. In short, one receiver and a communication environment are enough to operate network RTK, making it simpler than the conventional approach.

Q: Are there benefits to installing your own base station? A: Yes. Installing your own base station allows RTK surveying even where cellular coverage is absent (e.g., mountainous areas), eliminates ongoing service fees, and provides stable control managed by your organization. It also allows multiple rovers to operate simultaneously without additional subscription costs. However, private base stations require higher initial investment and operational effort, so consider site conditions and usage frequency. A sensible approach is to start with network RTK and move to a private base station if usage increases.

Q: Do I need qualifications or permits to perform RTK surveying? A: Operating the equipment itself does not require national qualifications. Anyone can purchase and use RTK equipment. However, if survey results are used for official purposes (public surveys, cadastral surveys), operations must be conducted under licensed surveyors and surveyor registration requirements apply. Also, opening a radio station for correction transmission may require radio operator qualifications and license applications; for example, using radios of 1 W or more requires a radio operator qualification and station opening application. Using license‑exempt low‑power radios or Internet communications generally does not require licenses. In summary, internal trial use of RTK does not require special permission, but public or official surveying must follow the Survey Act and related procedures.

Q: What is LRTK and how does it work? A: LRTK is a new positioning approach that enables cm‑level accuracy using a compact GNSS receiver and a smartphone, without the need for users to set up a base station or perform complex communication configurations. Proprietary algorithms and cloud services allow users to obtain RTK‑grade accuracy by simply pressing a button on a smartphone. LRTK significantly lowers introduction and operational barriers compared to traditional RTK, making high‑accuracy surveying more accessible even to non‑specialists. Accuracy is comparable to conventional RTK in many cases, bringing precision surveying within easier reach.