I am using a Trimble TSC2 that is dialing into a TDOT Bast Station for Auto-Corrections. Some of the places I go RTK just doesn't seem to work. I have been looking at Faststatic and PPK as other options. It looks like either one would work ,does anyone have a preference? Is there any addition equipment that I would need to look at getting to make either one of these processes to work? For post processing what software do I have to have?
One of my toys..er, tools is a Trimble R8 Model 1 which operates here in TX on the Western Data Systems Cooperative RTK Network. I have the GSM module on the GPS head which uses the cell phone simm card. I do not have to have an external phone/modem, but I also do not have the radio module to plug in to use the unit as a base or rover. I am limited on my service area due to the terrain here in central TX. If I drop off of a ridge and into a ravine, I will lose my connection. I have several base/rover setups so I have not pursued any RTK bridge.
As far as fast static:
In your configurations, your fast static survey style will collect data for as long as your battery holds out. I have many files over 5 hours long containing static data collected @ 5 second epochs. After extracting the DAT file, you can submit this file to OPUS-S (minimum 2 hours observation) for a post processed file, option: record a shorter file (less than 2 hours) and submit to OPUS-RS. You can get a DAT file extractor from Trimble or TEQC.
It is also best to monitor your battery and close your file before the battery runs out. Also, it is suggested to have the data cable (Trimble 32960-or variant) running from the GPS head to the data collector and not rely on bluetooth.
As far as PPK:
Never used it since I have only 1 unit, but you got me to thinking perhaps I could collect the data, download my nearest CORS station (or several) and post process it with my Trimble Business Center. I'll check with my vendor.
PPK is the way to go. If you set in one spot then it's basically a static session but you can also topo with it. So I always use PPK.
> .... For post processing what software do I have to have?...
If you are using Trimble you will need TBC, with the post processing module. This will run you about $3000, maybe more. You will also need a second receiver to act as base. You may just as well buy a radio to go with second receiver and go to RTK-ing.
Rapid Static is better for control. Better quality positions. Occupation times on point in the order of several minutes.
PPK is better for topo. Reduced occupation time (a few seconds per point) at a slight cost in precision.
> > .... For post processing what software do I have to have?...
> If you are using Trimble you will need TBC, with the post processing module. This will run you about $3000, maybe more. You will also need a second receiver to act as base. You may just as well buy a radio to go with second receiver and go to RTK-ing.
>
> Rapid Static is better for control. Better quality positions. Occupation times on point in the order of several minutes.
>
> PPK is better for topo. Reduced occupation time (a few seconds per point) at a slight cost in precision.
Thank you for the information, this has really helped. I have been so frustrated because I couldn't get any information out of the reseller who sold me the equipment or Trimble themselves. Every time I asked either about FastStatic or PPK, I was asked "Why in the world would you want to use those processes when you can get auto-correction from the bast station!" When I explained why, I never was told anything. I have basically taught myself GIS and how to use the GPS equipment. I did have training on the basics of how to collect point data and how to do offsets, but that is it. Everything I know, I have had to go out into the field and just fumble through to figure out. This is website has really been great! Again, I appreciate your help. It is helpful to be able to get people's opinions and bounce ideas off people. No one in the company I work for uses or understands how to use my equipment so I have been alone in my quest for bettering myself with this equipment.
:good: :good: :good:
If you can teach yourself nothing can get in your way. Very few people even try and that is what sets you apart.
Asking for help counts as teaching yourself. So keep asking questions, and keep rocking out the RSE's (redneck science experiments).
Check out http://www.geod.nrcan.gc.ca/products-produits/ppp_e.php
You can do some fun things with the Topcon Tools demo, it will do the static post-processing for up to 5 stations, which works pretty well if it is 4 CORS + yours, or if you can get the static files for the base stations your RTK network uses. Very interesting to compare the RTK to the post-processed with the same rover & base stations. (Well, it used to be, maybe it's boringly close now.) As has been said here many times, always good to compare your home-cooked static with OPUS or some other.
Mike McInnis at System Dividends is a great source for GPS training, especially for Trimble gear.