HxGN SmartNet: Complete Review & Top HxGN Alternatives [2024]
GNSS corrections are used in various fields, from agriculture to construction. They enhance positional accuracy and operational efficiency, making them essential for surveying, mapping, and other geodetic tasks.
HxGN SmartNet is one of these GNSS correction solutions, but how accurate is it in correcting positioning errors?
In this HxGN SmartNet review, we’ll explore all the features of HxGN SmartNet and its offerings. We’ll also highlight the top HxGN SmartNet alternatives so you can find the best GNSS corrections service for your business.
What is HxGN SmartNet?
HxGN SmartNet is a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) correction service with 5,300 reference stations. HxGN SmartNet combines three forms of GNSS corrections: network RTK, RTK bridging, and precise point positioning (PPP) to deliver real-time correction data.
SmartNet generates RTK corrections in three ways: master-auxiliary corrections, individualized max (i-Max), and virtual reference stations (VRS). i-Max uses a physical reference station to generate RTK corrections, while VRS uses a virtual one. Master-auxiliary corrections, on the other hand, are a rover-controlled network solution.
HxGN SmartNet is used for location tracking in automotive applications, precision agriculture, land surveying and mapping, construction site management, and autonomous vehicle navigation
SmartNet Review
Here’s a review of SmartNet, analyzing its features and offerings, its competencies, benefits, and potential drawbacks, as well as its pricing and other HxGN products.
HxGNSmartNet Products and Offerings
SmartNet has three main products and offerings: Correction services, RINEX data services, and an HxGN SmartNet mobile app.
Correction services
HxGN SmartNet offers correction services for Leica Geosystems GS Smart Antennas using network RTK, RTK bridging, and precise point positioning (PPP). It has three products for correction services: HxGN SmartNet Pro, HxGN SmartNet+, and HxGN SmartNet PPP, offering different levels of coverage for users.
RINEX data services
RINEX data services are a foundation for SmartNet. They position reference stations in the millimeter world and give users access to RINEX data. RINEX data services are purpose-built for users to get the data they need.
HxGN SmartNet app
HxGN SmartNet has a mobile application for users to stay updated on their SmartNet usage. Users can view the real-time status of reference stations in the network, test connection to the NTRIP source table, and see the status of the rover’s position in real-time. Users also get push notifications from HxGN operators and can create their own support tickets via the app if they need help.
HxGN SmartNet Pros
HxGN SmartNet stands out for its positioning technology. Here are some of its benefits:
- Has a network of over 5,000 base stations, providing users with extensive coverage and centimeter accuracy
- Combines three forms of GNSS corrections: network RTK, RTK bridging, and precise point positioning (PPP)
- Offers a mobile app for real-time visibility
HxGN SmartNet Cons
But despite its benefits, it still has several drawbacks, which include:
- SmartNet plans range from state only to national–and can cost upwards of $5,000/year. If you want nationwide coverage or if you travel between states, SmartNet is not right for you.
- Can only work effectively with Leica Geosystems GS sensors. Accuracy is reduced with other sensors.
- Users have to manually connect to a different base station for each location rather than be automatically assigned to the most suitable base station.
- SmartNet is limited to surveying since there’s no way to integrate with their services. Users with robotics, ADAs, or traveling fleets, like drones, will have a challenging time working with SmartNet.
- Users need technical experience to set up their HxGN SmartNet.
HxGN SmartNet Pricing
Unfortunately, pricing information is not available on HxGN SmartNet’s website.
Other HxGN Products
Other HxGN products and services include:
- HxDR: HxDR is a Hexagon digital reality product for hosting digital reality applications. It provides cloud storage, visualization, and collaborative tools for users and microprocessors for processing data.
- HxGN AgrOn Track Controller: The HxGN AgrOn Track Controller is an electromagnetic steering product for farm machines and automobiles such as tractors and harvesters. It also uses an inertial navigation unit for precise positioning and supports a satellite navigation system.
- HxGN AgrOn Ti10: HxGN AgrOn Ti10 supports greater connectivity between field-ops by displaying precision agriculture needs such as soil moisture levels and crop health metrics on one screen.
- Intergraph Smart® 3D: Intergraph Smart® 3D supports the creation and maintenance of 3D models in production facilities and powers the development of digital twins.
- HxGN AgrOn Raw Material Traceability: HxGN AgrOn Raw Material Traceability is built to track the flow of raw materials to the processing plant. It has WiFi for communication and a data management model.
- HxGN AgrOn Haul-Out Dynamic Allocation: HxGN AgrOn Haul-Out Dynamic Allocation allows users to monitor the position of each piece of farm equipment and control tools, such as increasing or reducing a tractor's speed.
HxGN SmartNet GNSS Corrections Alternatives
You may be considering a SmartNet alternative if you want a more affordable, less complex network with better coverage.
Let’s take a look at some of the best options:
1. Point One Polaris
Polaris by Point One is a modern RTK service that offers 99.99% network uptime, less than 5 minutes connection time, and a 5-second network convergence time—allowing users to achieve precise positioning quickly and save valuable time.
Polaris has one of the comprehensive RTK coverage networks, with over 1,400 modern, reliable base stations, and an unmatched density with geographical reach across the United States, Europe, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. The service supports accurate positioning even in areas without adequate cell coverage or an occluded sky.
Polaris enables automatic connections to nearby base stations for greater efficiency and reliability and is transparent about the locations of its base stations. It’s easy to use and integrate, works with almost all GNSS receivers, and has a self-service portal for users to activate their devices and credentials.
Features & offerings:
- Centimeter precision for surveying, mapping, agriculture, autonomous drones and vehicles, and more
- Highest overall density of U.S. RTK corrections networks with extra RTK base stations in urban centers
- 99.9% uptime and 5 seconds network convergence time
- One NTRIP mount point for easy setup and use
- Choose from ITRF2014, NAD83, or the datum appropriate for your location
- Compatible with dual-band GNSS receivers
- Compatible with GNSS modern receivers such as Bad Elf Flex, Carlson BRX7, DJI Mavic 3E, and Emlid RS2
Pricing:
- Standard: $125/mo; $1500/yr
- Enterprise customers can request a custom quote
Experience Polaris RTK with a free trial.
2. Trimble
Trimble offers commercial real-time kinematics (RTK) products for GPS accuracy and increased productivity, which can be used for construction and geospatial activities. Its RTK has a miniaturized build for portability.
Trimble also has Trimble RTX, an RTK correction service that delivers GNSS corrections to users over satellite or the internet, and software-defined GNSS RTK-enabled systems.
Features & offerings:
- Miniaturized RTK hardware for portability
- Satellite and internet-delivered RTK corrections
- Software-defined GNSS system with RTK
- Access to RTK correction using CORS network with Trimble VRS Now
- GNSS CORS network management software
Pricing: Trimble solutions are only purchased via authorized dealers
3. NovAtel
NovAtel offers satellite-based GPS and GNSS correction services with NovAtel Terrastar, a corrections coverage map, and the Oceanix correction service for marine operations. Each of these correction services transmits correction data to NovAtel receivers via an internet connection or a satellite link. NovAtel Terrastar uses independent PPP positioning for GNSS corrections and RTK augmentation to bridge any RTK outage gap.
NovAtel also offers Inertial Navigation Systems that integrate NovAtel GNSS receivers with inertial measurement units (IMUs) for accuracy and reliability in challenging environments.
Features & offerings:
- Oceanix Correction Services for correction services for precise marine applications
- RTK From the Sky technology for centimeter-level positioning without regional constraints
- Interactive corrections coverage map showing where corrections are delivered over L-Band
- NovAtel Terrastar for transmitting correction data
- NovAtel Correct for GNSS and GPS correction
Pricing: Pricing information is not available on the website
Use the Best SmartNet Alternative for Ultimate RTK Precision
HxGN SmartNet offers centimeter-accurate RTK corrections for Leica Geosystems GS sensors. But, with reduced accuracy for other sensors, a limited base station network compared to alternatives, high price point, and very limited flexibility, it may not be the right fit–especially for anyone traveling between states.
Polaris by Point One is an RTK solution for delivering GNSS correction services for your devices with centimeter accuracy. It has one of the largest RTK coverage networks, with over 1,400 modern and reliable base stations and extensive geographical reach.
It also powers automatic connections to the closest local base stations so users don’t have to worry about lost signals, ensuring continuous and reliable data transmission. Polaris RTK also solves the problem of limited cell coverage and occluded skies by delivering corrections with L-Band satellite signals.
And, with instant activation and an easy to use web app, you can get started in 5 minutes.
Ready to experience the best in precision navigation today?
