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SXBLUE LEARNING BLOG: OUR GEOSPATIAL MAPPING BLOG

A word about Datum: to understand how SBAS systems work (WAAS / EGNOS /MSAS / GAGAN) lets discuss factors affecting local DGPS accuracy.

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Field Study - SXblue receivers: overcoming position error and achieving sub-meter horizontal accuracy with SXblue mapping grade receiver. Discussing data collection software, LIDAR DATA, SBAS, forest canopy percentage and other important factors.

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Atlas® GNSS Global Correction Service
Superior Positioning Accuracy, Positioning Sustainability and Convergence Time.

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SmartNet
Centimeter accurate GPS GNSS results using RTK Networks

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SXblue Toolbox: mapping software allowing post-processing activities on computers and mobile phones for surveying and geomatics professionals. Can connect to a NTRIP server for RTK corrections. Provides Centimeter accurate GPS GNSS positioning.

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GPS – The Error Budget Learn about dilution of precision, positioning accuracy, GPS Post Processing and Real-Time Kinematics

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Field Genius
Survey software / data collection tool featuring RPN calculator, Digital Terrain Modelling and other geoinformation tools.

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External references on:
WAAS service, SatNav, EGNOS, MSAS & more.

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FAQ

GENERAL QUESTIONS
GPS, GNSS meaning?
GPS stands for global position system, a (US satellite-based). GPS might refer by extension to the receiver. GNSS stands for Global Navigation Satellite System and regroup every regional satellite navigation system (GPS, GLONASS, BEIDOU, GALILEO, ect.).
A Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) is a broad term that describes various ways of enhancing the Global Positioning System (GPS). It provides improved location accuracy from the nominal GPS accuracy (15 meters) to about 1-3 cm in case of the best implementations. All SxBlue’s receivers are DGPS systems using SBAS corrections.
Satellite-based Augmentation System (SBAS) augments GNSS constellation(s) by providing ranging, integrity and correction information. While the main goal of SBAS is to provide integrity assurance for aviation, it also provides sub-meter (<1m) accuracy free of charge in various regions (see here).
Yes, these services have proven themselves for some time now and have shown excellent results. As WAAS (North and Central America), EGNOS (Europe), MSAS (Japan) and GAGAN (India) are operational, they can be used as sole means of navigation. We recommend that you refer to Sxbluegps.com for Web sites that provide details on the operational status.
Atlas is a GNSS-based global L-band correction service, providing its correction signals via L-band satellites at accuracies ranging from sub-meter (<1m) to sub-decimeter (<10cm) levels depending on subscription. The entire globe (75°N to 75°S) is virtually covered.
RTK stands for Real-Time Kinematic. It uses sophisticated techniques to reduce and remove errors common to a base station (or RTK network) and rover pair. RTK is used for applications that require higher accuracies, such as centimetre-level positioning, up to 1 cm. Most of these network users will need cellular coverage and data plans for RTK on the field.
It is an SBAS system provided by the USA FAA covering North America free of charge.
GNSS are faster and more stable due to their capacity to rely on more satellites. Differences are proband in cities, forests or other areas where line of sight with sky is obstruction to your geospatial surveying equipment.
TIPS FOR PURCHASING / USING YOUR NEW RECEIVER
The positions computed by your receiver are accurate (guaranteed) to within 1 meter 95% of the time (assuming a good view of the sky and minimal multipath). This accuracy is, conservatively, halve for z-values. With RTK corrections, it can go down to centimeter precision. Contact us for more details.
SXBlue receivers are a unique solution in that they are very compact, yet deliver very high performance. There are a number of DGPS products on the marketplace but very few of them are suitable for commercial use with such applications as GIS Mapping, due to their positioning performance and their update rates. SXBlue is up to the task and meets the needs for these applications. SXBlue also offers the facility of outputting raw measurement data for post-processing in the office.
For the best performance, please ensure that the sky above the SXBlue antenna is unobstructed for satellite tracking. The receiver tolerates a certain amount of signal blockage due to the availability of redundant satellites (only four are required for a position). However, the more satellites are blocked, the more impact this could have on your positioning accuracy.
Yes, we designed a model specifically for that purpose. A cigarette lighter plug is available from your dealer as well. It is important to use a proper charger manufactured by SXblue.
A Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) is a broad term to describe ways of enhancing the Global Positioning System (GPS). It provides improved location accuracy from the 15 meters nominal GPS accuracy to about 1-3 cm in case of the best implementations. All SxBlue’s receivers are DGPS systems using SBAS corrections.
SXBlue supports standard NMEA data messages. The $GPGSV data message contains satellite tracking information. Since the GPS automatically tracks GPS satellites when powered, this will give you information on the tracking status. If your receiver has computed a position, this will be contained within the $GPGGA data message. Additionally, SXBlue receiver has LEDs that give status indications.
Yes, you may have different NMEA messages turned on for the ports. Further, these NMEA messages may also be at different update rates.
GGA - essential fix data which provides 3D location and accuracy data. $GPGGA,123519,4807.038,N,01131.000,E,1,08,0.9,545.4, M,46.9,M,*47
Where:
GP means that it is a GPS position (GL would denote GLONASS).
GGA Global Positioning System Fix Data
123519 Fix taken at 12:35:19 UTC
4807.038,N Latitude 48 deg 07.038' N
01131.000,E Longitude 11 deg 31.000'

1 Fix quality:
0 = invalid,
1 = GPS fix (SPS),
2 = DGPS fix,
3 = PPS fix,
4 = Real Time Kinematic,
5 = Float RTK,
6 = estimated (dead reckoning) (2.3 feature),
7 = Manual input mode,
8 = Simulation mode
08 Number of satellites being tracked
0.9 Horizontal dilution of position
545.4,M Altitude, meters, above mean sea level
46.9,M Height of geoid (meaning sea level) above WGS84 ellipsoid
(empty field) time in seconds since last DGPS update
(empty field) DGPS station ID number
*47 the checksum data, always begins with "
Yes, the Serial, USB and Bluetooth ports can be used independently.
Red: when the receiver is powered, this LED will light up.
Green: once the receiver retrieves his position from satellites, this LED will light up.
Orange: as the differential position is computed, this light will stay on.
Yellow: as the receiver connects to SBAS or Atlas, this light will stay on.
Blue: stays on when the receiver and the data collector exchange data.
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“Initially, a number of DGPS options were tested, and WAAS proved to penetrate our forest canopy type the best. Short outages do occur, but the technology in the SXblue GPS allows our operations to continue virtually uninterrupted.”

J.D. IRWING LTD., New Brunswick, Canada

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SOFTWARE

This application can record, save and transfer raw data from the GNSS receiver, thereby allowing post-processing activities. It also acts as a NTRIP client, capable of connecting to a NTRIP server for RTK corrections, and thus allows the receiver to issue very accurate location information. FIND OUT MORE HERE.
FieldGenius software works flawlessly with Geneq GNSS receivers, and makes great use of high definition displays on SXPad data collectors with its high resolution interface and large/clear icons. FieldGenius includes more advanced features than any other data collection system. Find out more
FieldGenius has the ability to create and utilize DTM surfaces from existing survey data or create a DTM in real time as the data is collected. The TIN and contours will automatically update as each new shot is taken. Find out more
Atlas is the most flexible service on the market, delivering its correction signals via L-band satellites or over the internet at accuracies ranging from meter to sub-decimeter levels. It is Hemisphere GNSS’ new GNSS correction service, offering the most innovative correction service available in the industry, providing performance that meets or exceeds that delivered by other industry leaders, at market-leading prices. Find out more
Baselink technology allows Atlas-capable receivers such as SXblue to self-calibrate, self-survey, and automatically manage the transmission of RTK correction data to augment or extend established or new GNSS reference networks in areas of poor internet connectivity. Find out more
SureFix is Hemisphere’s all-new processor that runs in combination with Athena GNSS engine to provide high-fidelity RTK quality information that results in enhanced and improved RTK accuracy, availability, and guaranteed precision with virtually 100% reliability. Find out more
SmartNet is a network of permanent GPS and/or GNSS receivers whose combined data is used to generate RTK corrections for a rover. This network generated RTK corrections are called Network RTK. We propose users to subscribe to a Network RTK Service to receive RTK corrections with their rover (instead of setting up their own reference/base station). Ask us about this service!
Collector for ArcGIS is one of the mobile data collection application that makes it easy to collect field data and use it when the user is back to office. Find out more on our ‘Applications from partners’ page

VIDEOS

DEMO / INSTRUCTIONS
Esri survey123 RTK SxbluePlatinum
SXblue Distributor Questionnaire
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Made in Canada since 2003
1 800 463-4363

Your trusted source of centimeter-accurate GPS GNSS receivers manufactured in Canada

In the demanding world of surveying equipment, SXblue has gained recognition for its state-of-the-art GPS & GNSS receivers, developed and manufactured in Canada.

Our receivers are DGPS systems using SBAS / WAAS corrections. With RTK GPS corrections, our receivers easily attain centimeter precision. Long-lasting and affordable, our centimeter-accurate GPS & GNSS survey tools deliver robust performance even in difficult areas (case study). Also available: SXblue Toolbox, our new iOS app!


II SERIES

HIGH ACCURACY GPS / GNSS RECEIVERS FOR IPHONE & OTHER OS

  • Geospatial mapping with SBAS / WAAS
  • Great gps receiver for iphone
  • Robust and affordable RTK GPS receiver
  • DGPS mapping
  • Multi-GNSS including GPS Glonass Galileo BeiDou QZSS
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PLATINUM

CENTIMETER ACCURATE GPS RECEIVER FOR IPHONE, ANDROID ETC

  • iOS/Android/Windows compatible – great gps receiver for iphone
  • Compatible with different mapping software such as ESRI
  • All SXblue receivers perform DGPS surveying using SBAS / WAAS corrections
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PLATINUM AG

VEHICLE GUIDANCE RECEIVER

  • Centimeter accurate GPS, GNSS constellations
  • Global (SBAS or Atlas L-Band) or local RTK corrections services
  • 5V to 36V external power
  • Lightweight, completely dustproof, and ruggedized.
  • Upgradable, optional activations available
  • 394 channels
DISCOVER
SXBLUE SMART

GNSS SMART ANTENNA SXBLUE SMART

965 hardware channels for simultaneous tracking of all visible supported satellite signals:

  • GPS: L1, L1C, L2C, L2P, L5
  • GLO: G1, G2, G3
  • BDS: BDS-2: B1I, B2I, B3I BDS-3: B1I, B3I, B1C, B2a, B2b
  • GAL: E1, E5A, E5B, E6C, AltBOC
  • QZSS: L1, L2C, L5
  • SBAS: L1 IRNSS: L5
  • MSS L-Band (Reserve)
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RUGGED TABLETS FOR DATA COLLECTION

  • Windows 10 or Android
  • IP67, ruggedized tablet
  • 7″, 8″ or 10″ with 4GB RAM/64 GB internal
DISCOVER

ALL-IN-ONE RUGGED TABLET WITH AN INTERNAL ANTENNA

  • Certified IP 65 capable of enduring the harshest conditions
  • Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS + 2G, 3G, 4G FDD LTE compatible
  • Can receive RTK corrections
DISCOVER

GNSS RECEIVER INTEGRATED INTO A POCKET COMPUTER

  • A complete solution integrating GNSS technology and pocket computer
  • Advanced positioning technology for topographical survey
  • Real-Time sub-meter accuracy
  • Field Genius Data collecting software preinstalled
  • A complete solution that combines the positioning technology and versatility of a handheld computer
  • Flexible and light topographical survey tool
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DATA COLLECTORS

  • Windows Mobile 6.5 Pro, Android
  • VGA TFT color
  • Bluetooth with any SXblue or Smart Antenna
  • Robust for extreme conditions
  • Alphanumeric keyboard IP67-ROHS-CE
  • Sunlight readable
  • 5MP camera with autofocus
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CENTIMETER ACCURATE GPS GNSS RECEIVER RTK FOR A LOW COST

  • Affordable GNSS RTK receiver for centimeter accuracy
  • GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS and SBAS
  • 220/336 Channels
  • Single or triple-frequency
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
  • Trimble Maxwell technology
  • 8GB (SSD) Internal Memory
  • IP 67, Waterproof and Dustproof
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PERMANENT CORS GPS BASE STATION FOR SALE

  • Create your own correction service for agriculture, construction sites, machine control,
    utilities and many other applications
  • Up to 555 GNSS channels
  • Proven tracking technology for CORS GNSS reference station
  • Maximum efficiency and reliability
DISCOVER

OUR RECOMMENDED DATA COLLECTION SOFTWARE

INCLUDED WITH ANY COMBINATION OF DATA COLLECTOR AND:
– SXBLUE RECEIVER
– SMART ANTENNA
– SXPRO GNSS

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NUMEROUS COMPATIBLE DATA COLLECTION SOFTWARE FOR SXBLUE DEVICES

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ACHIEVE CM PRECISION WITH THESE CORRECTION SERVICES

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HIgh accuracy GPS - GNSS Receivers
The best High-Accuracy GPS Receivers : SXblue II series
  • Geospatial mapping with SBAS / WAAS
  • Robust and affordable RTK GPS receiver
  • DGPS mapping
  • Multi-GNSS including GPS Glonass Galileo BeiDou QZSS
MADE IN CANADA
centimeter accurate GPS/GNSS surveying equipment
SXblue Platinum – DGPS Survey grade equipment
  • iOS/Android/Windows compatible
  • Compatible with different mapping software such as ESRI
  • All SxBlue’s receivers are DGPS survey equipment using SBAS / WAAS corrections.
MADE IN CANADA
Vehicle Guidance Receiver
SXblue Platinum AG
  • GPS, GNSS Constellations
  • Global (SBAS or Atlas L-Band) or local RTK corrections services
  • 5V to 36V external power
  • Lightweight, completely dustproof and ruggedized.
  • Upgradable, optional activations available
  • 394 channels
MADE IN CANADA
Permanent GPS base station
NET20 Pro
  • Create your own correction service for: Agriculture, Construction site, Machine Control,
    Utilities and many other applications
  • Up to 555 GNSS channels
  • Proven tracking technology for CORS GNSS reference station
  • Maximum efficiency and reliability
Receiver with Integrated smart antenna
F100 / F90 RECEIVER
  • This new F100 GNSS is equipped with a BD990 board, 336channels.
  • Built-in 5watt radio support effective working distance 10KM.
  • Built-in 13600mAh battery
  • Color LCD display, multi-touch
  • Built-in tilt compensator, correcting coordinates automatically according to the tilt direction
The most cost-effective GNSS RTK receiver
SXblue Premier
  • Affordable GNSS RTK receiver for centimeter accuracy
  • GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS and SBAS
  • 220/336 Channels
  • Single or triple-frequency
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
  • Trimble Maxwell technology
  • 8GB (SSD) Internal Memory
  • IP 67, Waterproof and Dustproof
Handheld computer with positioning technology for topographical survey
SXPro GNSS
  • All-in-One GNSS receiver
  • Real-Time sub-meter accuracy
  • Field Genius Data collecting software preinstalled
  • Complete solution that combines the positioning technology and versatility of a handheld computer
  • Flexible and light topographical survey tool
Data Collectors
SXPad
  1. Windows Mobile 6.5 Pro, Android
  2. VGA TFT color, Sunlight readable
  3. Bluetooth with any SXblue or Smart Antenna
  4. Robust for extreme conditions
  5. Alphanumeric keyboard IP67-ROHS-CE
  6. Sunlight readable
  7. 5MP camera with autofocus
  8. 10 hours battery life
Heavy Duty Tablets
SXTab
  • Windows 10 or Android
  • IP67, ruggedized tablet
  • 7″, 8″ or 10″ with 4GB RAM/64 GB internal
Professional data collection software
Data Collection Software
INCLUDED WITH ANY COMBINATION OF DATA COLLECTOR AND:
  • SXBLUE
  • SMART ANTENNA
  • SXPRO GNSS

field genius

MADE IN CANADA
SUPPORTED APPS FOR OUR SXBLUE RECEIVERS
Compatible Applications


fulcrum, terrago, ntrip, cmt, arcpad, esri, amigocollect, fieldscout

GNSS RTK NETWORK & L-BAND CORRECTION SERVICE
RTK & L-Band Correction Service

Atlas, HxGN SmartNet

SXblue GPS