I saw recently that Verizon was offering a free mobile hot spot with a smart phone plan. Normally, there is a $30-50/mo "teathering" charge to allow internet access through other devices. I'm not sure how much data usage you're allowed under this plan, though.
So, it got me thinking, are there any GPS recievers that can connect to an RTK network via WiFi? Seems like a good way to go if you can make it work.
I do know that Verizon has a 5GB cap on their "unlimited" wireless data plan for mobile phones. However, I'm not sure if that applies in this case.
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I had a quote yesterday from Verizon for one of their My-Fi units.
Older 3G unit Free with free setup
3GB per month $30 5GB per month $50
I forget what the 10GB plan was
if you want 4GLTE more equipment cost
The receivers themselves do not connect to the hotspot. Your data collector has to have wifi capabilities. If it does, you are in business. This is what I use for my network connection and it works better than both external (Airlink, cell phones, etc.) and internal modems. It is more versatile as well. You can use the hotspot for more than just surveying. My advice is to jump in with both feet.
Unless you plan on watching youtube while you work all day 3gb is plenty.
I use a Verizon MiFi to connect to the local Trimble VRS everyday. We have only one subscription to Trimble's network, and use it a ton. I had to buy a powerful after-market battery to get 12 hours out of the MiFi.
I subscribe to Verizon's cheapest data plan (I think 256 MB)...it's like $30/month or so.
We have never exceeded the data limit for a given month. I've been told the GNSS receiver uses only a few MB's each day.
Pretty slick set-up...can check email with a laptop as well...this has saved me more than once, being able to download a .dwg in the middle of nowhere.
This sounds like a great way to connect to the network, how long does your DC battery last running wifi. I wonder if it would be possible to transmit corrections from a local base station to your own server IP. Always looking to get away from Paccrest and the 460 mhz bandwidth.
> This sounds like a great way to connect to the network, how long does your DC battery last running wifi. I wonder if it would be possible to transmit corrections from a local base station to your own server IP. Always looking to get away from Paccrest and the 460 mhz bandwidth.
The data collector battery does not last long at all. I was shocked that we only get about 3 hours from the TSC2 when we have bluetooth and wifi cranking...Oh well, take the good with the bad I guess.
For the Trimble collector, I purchased 2 additional batteries plus the original, so we usually get through the day (also have truck chargers).
I ordered a TSC3 today...curious if the battery life will improve. Hopefully so, because at $250 a pop- batteries aren't cheap.
I'm not sure about transmitting our own corrections via a server IP...around here, there's not much radio traffic, so we use the 35 watt radios or VRS...if you figure something out, let me know.
Thanks for the info. My only experience with Network RTK was at my old job and we plugged an AirLink Raven directly into the Hiper, so I assumed that it was the receiver itself that needed the connection to the internet. So, with the newer equipment, it's the DC that has the WiFi and makes the internet conection? Interesting.
You are going to love the TSC3 and should see improved battery life. I know Verizon is CDMA but if you ever decide to switch the internal GSM, it may extend your power capabilities. I am still using my Verizon Mifi with my TSC3. Regarding dialing into a local base, this was an option a couple years ago but I haven't tried it without streaming through Network software since then. If you can establish a static IP at the base you can do it via a TCP/IP connection. If I remember correctly, you are only able to connect one rover to the base at a time this way. It's been a while so I'm sure things are different by now. I would look into who provides a RTN in your area and it will solve your radio issues (introduces cellular coverage into the mix though). Good luck
If you wanted to occasionally download or upload a big file, how fast would this service be?
5 Gigs of data is enough to run a VRS rover 24/7 for a month....more than enough for even the harshest slave master....
The MiFi works great....I have also seen reduced battery life in the TSC2 when running WiFi and bluetooth....
Questions on using the Verizon Wireless MiFi setup.
What's the range on the MiFi unit ? How far can an RTK Rover travel away from the Verizon Wireless unit? Similiar to range of Bluetooth, or UHF radios? Looking for ball park range.
For the guys using this device, do you carry it arround with you, or are you leaving it stationary on the job site?
I read the post about using an extended life battery to power the MiFi device.
Thinking about getting the Global variant Version Wireleass MiFi unit, but had a few Q's
Thx guys