Capture a Hovermap scan with PPK georeferencing

This article explains how to capture a Hovermap scan and record RINEX data for use in a PPK Georeferencing workflow. Use this procedure to ensure all required files are collected and offloaded correctly before moving to the RINEX file processing step.

For guidance on capturing good RTK data, including pre-mission fix checks and capture conditions, see Best Practice for RTK.

Prerequisites

• Hovermap ST-X with Backpack or Vehicle RTK kit

• Android mobile device with Commander 2.3 or later installed

• Supported Rover GNSS receiver (see table below)

• Manufacturer software installed on a device connected to the GNSS receiver

Procedure

Step 1: Set up hardware

1. Mount the Hovermap on the Backpack or Vehicle RTK kit. For instructions, see Set up the Backpack RTK Mount or Set up the Vehicle RTK Mount.

2. Connect and set up a supported GNSS receiver, then power on all hardware. See Set up a supported receiver for instructions.

3. Check the receiver has a GNSS fix before proceeding.

Step 2: Set up base corrections (optional)

If using a local base station, position a supported GNSS receiver over a known point at or near the site and start RINEX logging before beginning the scan.

If using a GNSS correction network instead, no field setup is required. Note the scan start and end time in UTC, and the correction site or mountpoint used, to download the correct base observation files from the network provider after the mission.

Step 3: Start RINEX logging

1. Access the rover GNSS receiver's logging settings using the manufacturer's software or interface.

2. Start a RINEX log and check that logging is active before beginning any scan.

Step 4: Configure GNSS settings and start the scan in Commander

1. Check that RINEX logging is active on the rover receiver. Commander displays a reminder prompt but does not indicate whether rover RINEX logging is active.

2. Open Commander and begin the mission workflow.

3. When the GNSS receiver is connected, a PPK toggle appears in the workflow. Enable the PPK toggle.

4. Tap Continue and complete the remaining workflow to start the scan.

Step 5: Stop logging and offload data

1. Stop the scan in Commander.

2. Stop the active RINEX log using the receiver's manufacturer software or interface.

3. Offload the scan data.

4. Offload the rover GNSS receiver data and, if a local base station was used, the base station RINEX data.

Some receivers output data in a proprietary format that must be converted to RINEX before processing. See the receiver data guide:

• Convert Leica GS18 GNSS data to RINEX format

• Convert Trimble GNSS data to RINEX format

• Export RINEX data from an Emlid receiver

Outcome

After completing these steps, scan data and RINEX log files are ready for the next step of the PPK Georeferencing workflow.

Next steps

Process RINEX files in Emlid Studio to generate the trajectory file needed for Aura processing.

See Understanding PPK Georeferencing for more information about the PPK workflow.