Emlid Reach RS2

Emlid Reach RS2 product review

Emlid Reach RS2 receiver features a 186 channel Ublox GNSS receiver board. Alongside an RTK subscription, the Emlid Reach RS2 can ensure centimetre accuracy in real-time. Since the receiver supports GPS, Galileo, Glonass, QZSS, and Beidou satellite constellations, it can provide a high level of accuracy, even in harsh conditions.

In this review, we have included a list of frequencies that Emlid Reach RS2 can support. The receiver also comes with an 868-915Mhz internal transmitter. In addition, there is a 3.5GB modem which you can use for a network rover setup. It works alongside a free ReachView App to let you survey points as well as log UBX and RINEX files.

RS2 main specifications

• RTK Enabled for 1-2cm accuracy. Compatible with RTK FIX
• 186 channels
• GPS, Glonass, Galileo, Beidou and QZSS
• 3.5G Mobile data
• UHF radio on 868-915Mhz frequency for rover/base setup
• Internal battery
• WiFi
• USB-C
• Bluetooth
• RS-232
• Weight: 950g
• Ingress protection: IP67
• Dimensions: 126x126x142mm
• Operating temperature: -20 to + 65 Degrees Celsius
• UHF radio distance: Up to 8 km

Industries that the Emlid RS2 is used in

• Surveying
• GIS applications
• Earthworks
• Roadworks
• Construction
• Agriculture
• Mapping
• Landfill
• Hydrographic
• UAV Base Station

What are the key features of the Emlid RTK GPS?

This unique, modern receiver comes with some excellent features that make it stand out. For instance, the receiver will get an RTK GNSS fix in a matter of seconds and maintain a perfect performance despite the conditions. This is the receiver to use if you need centimetre accuracy that can be gotten on distances of more than 100 km in PPK and 60 km in RTK.

The Emlid Reach RS2 is one of the few GPS devices that come with compact batteries with fantastic battery life. On a full charge, this battery will function for at least 22 hours when logging data and at least 16 hours when using the GPS as a network rover. But if you feel that this is not enough to serve your needs, you can use a power bank over USB-C to charge the GPS on the go. Even with that option, you will enjoy premium functionality.

The Emlid Reach RS2 is highly power-efficient and features a 2G fallback as well as global coverage. Additionally, the RINEX data logs are naturally compatible with CSRS-PPP, OPUS, AUSPOS, and many other PPP services, which means you will get to enjoy centimetre accuracy despite your location. The RTK GPS lets you process RINEX files online while enjoying premium accuracy.

Durability IP67, Shockproof, 5/8”

Emlid Reach RS2 is crafted with an impressive level of impact resistance. The main body of the device is manufactured using a two-step injection process. The body’s internal layer is moulded from polycarbonate, which is a highly durable material that does not get affected by destructive weather elements.

Amid the moulding process, a precision CNC machine threaded is inserted to form a single layer with the plastic. A special elastomer is used to cover the hard outer shell so that a shock absorber is formed around the device, thereby protecting it from impact.

There are conventional silicon bumpers, but they can’t beat the strength and durability of this construction method. The method also helps to ensure that heat does not reach the components, which means it can still function optimally under hot weather conditions. Silicon plugs are put in place to protect the connectors from water.

The Bottom Line

In this review of Emlid Reach RS2, we have included sufficient details to help you decide whether or not it would suit you. However, we believe that there is more to learn before you can use the GPS. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to check out the manufacturer’s website and learn more about the product before making a purchase.  Once you purchase the product, be sure to go through the user manual for correct setup and configuration instructions.

Using the Emlid as an RTK rover

When using this device in a rover configuration you may need the following accessories besides the receiver itself

• RTK Correction service. To achieve centimetre accuracy your receiver will need RTCM correction data so it can calculate your exact position. Without an RTK provider your receiver won’t be able achieve a 1-2 centimetre accuracy.
• Surveying software. Your receiver provides you with the coordinates you need but you still need surveying software in order to process this information. Which software you need depends on your needs. We recommend keeping it simple and don’t pay for things you don’t need. Having that said, if you do have to do complicated surveying work make sure you get the right software. Some recommended options are Apglos, Carlson, Aplitop and FieldGenius. If you need help, feel free to contact us by phone or via the chat below!
• Data collector. You might need a tablet or controller to run your software on. The type of tablet depends on which software you have choosen as some are Android based and some are Windows.
• Bracket and Holders. These are used to connect your tablet to your surveying pole so the whole set is easier to handle.
• Surveying pole. In order to get the best performance out of your receiver you want to minimise the disturbances around you and give it a clear sight to the satellites above. That why its recommended attaching your receiver on a 2 meter minimum surveying pole. These come in fixed rods and in telescopic rods.

Can the Emlid be configured in a Rover and Base setup?

When you don’t have access to an  RTK network you might have to setup your own base station in order to receive corrections. These are the accessories you might need besides the receiver itself:

• A second RTK GNSS receiver. preferably from the same brand. If you already have another one, then make sure they run on the same frequency.
• Surveying software. Your receiver provides you with the coordinates you need but you still need surveying software in order to process this information. Which software you need depends on your needs. We recommend keeping it simple and don’t pay for things you don’t need. Having that said, if you do have to do complicated surveying work make sure you get the right software. Some recommended options are Apglos, Carlson, Aplitop and FieldGenius. If you need help, feel free to contact us by phone or via the chat below!
• Data collector. You might need a tablet or controller to run your software on. The type of tablet depends on which software you have choosen as some are Android based and some are Windows.
• Bracket and Holders. These are used to connect your tablet to your surveying pole so the whole set is easier to handle.
• Surveying pole. In order to get the best performance out of your receiver you want to minimise the disturbances around you and give it a clear sight to the satellites above. That why its recommended attaching your receiver on a 2 meter minimum surveying pole. These come in fixed rods and in telescopic rods.
• Tripod and Tribrach. These are needed to setup your base station with the second receiver. The Tripod gives good stability so errors in sudden movements of the base station are avoided.
• External Radio. Most RTK GNSS receiver have an internal UHF radio build in. However, sometimes the power output is not strong enough to give you the workable distance you need and an external radio required. Internal radios can go up to 3 Watts that can work up to 8km. External radios can easily achieve 35 Watt outputs, thereby increasing your working range.

Emlid Reachview surveying application

The easiest to use software for data collection that is available both for Android and iOS. With ReachView, you can collect and stakeout points and control all the features of Reach receivers, such as setting up a base station, logging RINEX data, and configuring NMEA output.

Point collection:
create projects, save points, and export in industry standard formats

Record each position as a point with centimeter precise coordinates. Export projects and open them in GIS or CAD software like AutoCAD, ArcGIS, QGIS, and others.

Formats: DXF, CSV, GeoJSON, ESRI Shapefile

Stakeout:
Find points’ position on the ground

Stakeout is used to find exact physical locations of points. They can be collected in ReachView or imported from other CAD or GIS software. Process of stakeout in ReachView has two steps: map view and bulls-eye. Map’s purpose is to help you navigate to points on long distances. When you get closer than 40 cm to the point, bulls-eye turns on to make it easier for you to visually match receiver and point.

Formats: CSV, DXF and GeoJSONs

Logging in RINEX:
record raw data, position, and base correction logs

Record raw data, position and base correction logs. Point collection and recording of RAW data are independent processes and can be used simultaneously. ReachView has a simple and intuitive interface for logging configuration and control.

We provide our version of RTKLib for PPK. It’s free and can be downloaded from our docs.

RINEX raw data logs are compatible with OPUS, CSRS-PPP, AUSPOS, and other PPP services so you can now get centimeter-precise results in any place on Earth. Process RINEX files in an online service and get position with absolute accuracy.

• Reach RS2 gets fixed solution in just seconds and maintains robust performance even in challenging conditions. Centimeter accuracy can be achieved on distances up to 60 km in RTK, and 100 km in PPK mode.
• RINEX raw data logs are compatible with PPP services so you can now get centimeter-precise results in any place on Earth. Process RINEX files in an online service and get position with absolute accuracy.
• Reach RS2 features a power-efficient 3.5G HSPA modem with 2G fallback and global coverage. Now corrections can be accessed or broadcasted over NTRIP independently, without relying on Internet connection on your phone.
• Up to 22 hours of autonomous work when logging data and up to 16 hours as a 3G rover, even in cold weather—no more need to carry spare batteries with you. Reach RS2 can charge from a USB wall charger or a power bank over USB-C.
• Reach provides data in standard NMEA that is used by most GIS apps. Simply connect your device to Reach over Bluetooth or with a cable, and turn on “Position output” in ReachView.
• Reach is able turn on and off in sync with an external battery connected over RS-232. This helps when the power button is hard to reach. For example, if the receiver is placed on the roof of a tractor.
• Reach RS2 needs a base station as a source of corrections. That’s a requirement for centimeter accuracy in RTK and PPK. Base might be either another Reach RS2 receiver or NTRIP service. VRS is also supported. Reach RS2 works seamlessly with other Reach receivers over any link.

Additional Information

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