FP700 Tutorial Videos

Full Tutorial & Support Guide –  including drone setup, safety, autonomous flight, maintenance, and troubleshooting

Lesson 12: RTK Base Station Setup & Use

Using an RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) base station provides centimeter-level positioning accuracy for your FP700, crucial for precise mapping and operations. This lesson covers setting up and using the RTK base station.

(Note: The FP700 drone itself has built-in RTK capabilities, often utilizing network RTK services via the remote controller’s internet connection. This lesson focuses on scenarios where a physical base station is used).

Setting Up the RTK Base Station:

  1. Choose Location: Select a suitable location for the base station:
    1. Open Sky: Must have a clear, unobstructed view of the sky in all directions to receive signals from multiple GNSS satellites. Avoid proximity to tall buildings, trees, or other obstructions.
    2. Stable Ground: Place the tripod on firm, level ground to prevent movement during operation.
    3. Elevation: Placing it at a relatively high point within the operating area can improve signal reception.
    4. Safety: Ensure the location is safe from potential interference or damage (e.g., away from heavy machinery paths).
  2. Assemble Tripod & Mount: Set up the tripod securely. Mount the RTK base station antenna onto the tripod, ensuring it’s vertically aligned.
  3. Power On Base Station: Connect the power source and turn on the base station. Check indicator lights for status (e.g., power, satellite lock). Allow sufficient time for the base station to acquire satellite signals and establish a stable position (may take several minutes).
  4. Mode Check: Ensure the base station is in the correct operating mode (Base Station mode, not Rover mode). Some models might require a button press to switch modes.

Connecting Drone/RC to Base Station:

  1. Power On Drone & RC: Turn on the remote controller and the FP700 drone.
  2. Open Agri Assistant App: Launch the app on the remote controller.
  3. Navigate to RTK Settings: Go to the Drone Settings or Device Management section and find the RTK settings menu.
  4. Change Data Source: Select the RTK data source option. Change it from “Network RTK” (or default) to “RTK Base Station” (or similar wording).
  5. Link Base Station: The app should search for nearby base stations or provide an option to manually enter the base station’s ID or frequency. Follow the app prompts to establish a communication link between the drone/RC system and the base station.
  6. Confirm Status: Wait for the app to confirm a successful connection and check the RTK status indicator. It should display “FIX” or “Fixed Solution” indicating centimeter-level accuracy is achieved. Do not start operations until a Fixed solution is obtained.

During Operation:

  • Ensure the base station remains undisturbed and powered throughout the operation.
  • Monitor the RTK status in the app periodically. If the status changes from “Fixed”, land the drone and troubleshoot the connection or base station position.

Using an RTK base station ensures the highest level of positioning accuracy for your FP700 operations.