What is NTRIP?
Network Transport of RTCM via Internet Protocol (NTRIP) is a revolutionary technology in the world of modern surveying and geolocation. Developed by the Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM), NTRIP serves as a standardized protocol designed to facilitate the transfer of GNSS corrections data over the Internet.
For those working in precision agriculture, construction, land surveying, and autonomous vehicle navigation, this advanced system plays a critical role in providing real-time, high-accuracy location data that supports the utmost efficiency and accuracy.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into this groundbreaking technology, covering its history, applications, and the various NTRIP services available.
What is NTRIP?
NTRIP is an online protocol for streaming Differential GNSS (DGNSS) or Real-Time Kinematic correction data. It enables the delivery of RTK correction data from the base station to the rover (mobile receiver).
Essentially, NTRIP is the “streaming service” that packages and delivers the corrections data. NTRIP can stream Differential GPS (DGPS) and Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) correction data in order to provide high precision location information.
How does NTRIP work?
NTRIP operates as a sophisticated system designed to transmit GNSS correction data from a stationary reference station to a mobile GNSS receiver, known as a rover, via the internet. In other words, it provides the pathway for signals to travel between a base station and a receiver.
Let’s break down the steps in this process:
- Data Collection and Processing: The process begins with data collection at the base stations, which are strategically positioned and have known coordinates. These stations receive signals from GNSS satellites such as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou. The base stations collect raw satellite data and transmit their precise location and satellite measurements to the NTRIP caster
- NTRIP Transmission: NTRIP is then used to transmit the correction data required by RTK systems. The NTRIP caster acts as an intermediary, streaming the raw GNSS data from the base stations over the internet to the receiver. This protocol ensures efficient and reliable delivery of the data.
- GNSS Receivers Receive Data and Perform Corrections: Once the data is transmitted through NTRIP, GNSS receivers, also known as rovers, complete a mathematical calculation by comparing the measurements from the satellites with the precise location data from the base stations, resulting in high-accuracy positioning to the centimeter level.
By leveraging the power of the internet, NTRIP offers a reliable and efficient method for delivering GNSS correction data to rovers with no need for a second local receiver to act as a base. For businesses looking to integrate the highest level of precision in their location-based services, selecting the best NTRIP service provider is crucial.
By partnering with an NTRIP service provider like Point One, you're not just acquiring data; you're enabling precision, efficiency, and innovation in your operations.
How do RTK corrections work?
Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) corrections provide a sophisticated enhancement to various GNSS satellite data, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou. These systems provide location data with reasonable accuracy, but factors such as atmospheric disturbances, satellite orbital variance, multipath effects, and clock inaccuracies can introduce errors. As a result, the location data is accurate within meters.
RTK corrections are designed to mitigate these inaccuracies and provide centimeter-level accuracy by supplying additional data points. RTK corrections rely on a network of base stations that cover a large geographic area. a group of base stations that cover a large geographic area. These stations receive GNSS signals and calculate errors in the data based on their known precise locations. Altogether, this creates an RTK network.
Each station acts as a fixed base, continuously monitoring GNSS signals. Once the station determines the necessary corrections by noting discrepancies between the GNSS data and their known location, that information is sent via NTRIP to the RTK receivers. By leveraging the speed of the internet, NTRIP ensures that the correction data is delivered efficiently and in real time to users.
Choosing the best RTK network for optimal performance and precise corrections is challenging as the market expands. Polaris RTK offers unparalleled GNSS accuracy with lightning-fast convergence times on our robust RTK Corrections Network.
With over 1,400 base stations worldwide, Point One offers the most comprehensive network, meaning unmatched density and the most modern, reliable base stations. Our network is the only one that has absolute transparency about where base stations are located, providing the ultimate reliability. Try Polaris today to make the most of this technology with best-in-class RTK solutions.
History of NTRIP
NTRIP was introduced by the RTCM in September 2004 as a solution to the increasing demand for accurate, real-time positioning data. Prior to NTRIP, GNSS correction data was typically transmitted via radio waves, which had limited range and were susceptible to interference. The advent of NTRIP revolutionized this process by utilizing the internet, offering a more reliable and far-reaching method for data transmission.
Over the years, NTRIP has undergone several updates to enhance its functionality and compatibility with various GNSS systems. Today, it stands as the standard for real-time GNSS corrections, widely adopted by professionals in numerous industries.
More about NTRIP
Let’s explore some frequently asked questions related to NTRIP:
What is the difference between NTRIP and RTCM?
NTRIP and RTCM (Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services) are both linked to GNSS technology but have distinct roles. RTCM is a standard format for the data used in differential GPS (DGPS) and RTK systems, specifying how correction information is formatted. NTRIP, on the other hand, is a protocol for streaming this RTCM-formatted data over the internet.
RTCM is about the content (the format of GNSS correction data), while NTRIP concerns the delivery method (how this data is transmitted).
Is NTRIP the same as CORS?
No, NTRIP and CORS (Continuously Operating Reference Stations) are not the same. CORS refers to a network of permanent GNSS reference stations that provide real-time correction data. NTRIP, on the other hand, is the protocol used to transmit this correction data from CORS (or other reference stations) to the end users.
How do I connect to an NTRIP server?
Connecting to an NTRIP server typically involves the following steps:
- Acquire credentials by selecting an NTRIP service provider.
- Configure your rover by entering the credentials into your GNSS receiver’s configuration interface.
- Select the NTRIP caster (server) you wish to connect to.
- Choose a mount point, which is essentially a specific stream of correction data.
- Establish a connection and start receiving correction data.
Use the most accurate RTK network
NTRIP is a critical component of any high-precision GNSS setup. Its ability to deliver real-time corrections over the internet makes it indispensable for professionals requiring location precision. By leveraging NTRIP, users can achieve unprecedented accuracy and reliability in their positioning tasks.
Get the most accurate location information by using Point One Navigation, a global NTRIP service provider known for precision in absolute and relative navigation.
Our advanced RTK solutions are designed to meet the demanding needs of various industries, providing you with the precision and reliability you require. Polaris RTK offers exceptional GNSS accuracy and reliability, providing centimeter-level precision with rapid convergence times.
With a location stack that makes it easy to build production-grade products quickly, Point One is built on advanced algorithms and the most modern infrastructure available. Its extensive global network of over 1400 base stations worldwide ensures robust coverage and redundancy, especially in urban centers. With easy setup and compatibility with any dual-band GNSS device, users can get started in just five minutes.
The Polaris RTK network also boasts 99.99% uptime, ensuring consistent performance for critical applications like autonomous vehicle navigation, precision agriculture, and construction surveying.
