Want to use the Autel EVO II Enterprise drone for mapping? Here we explain how to set up NTRIP for the EVO II Enterprise drone to achieve high-precision positioning of the drone.
Please note: Before using this function, the EVO II RTK module must be installed.
What is the local NTRIP setting?
Local NTRIP settings refer to obtaining differential data by connecting to a local NTRIP service to improve the positioning accuracy of the drone. This setting usually requires a local base station or a specific network service.
Autel EVO II Enterprise supports RTK modules, so you can use Reach RS2/RS2+ as a base station, or you can use the local NTRIP option in Emlid Flow for data measurement.
How to implement the local NTRIP service?
For basic integrated geomapping with Autel EVO II Enterprise and Reach RS2/RS2+, we need the following hardware requirements:
- Before using the local NTRIP option, the base station and rover should be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Autel EVO II Enterprise drone as a rover, requires the optional RTK module.
- Use the corresponding smart controller version of EVO II Enterprise to connect to NTRIP through its built-in network function.
- Choose base or NTRIP service: Set Reach RS2/RS2+ as the base using local NTRIP or Set Reach RS2/RS2+ as the base using Emlid Caster.
View More: What is the NTRIP Network RTK?
How to set up local NTRIP for Autel EVO II Enterprise?
- Power on the drone and remote controller.
- Make sure the drone and smart remote controller are properly paired and powered on.
- Check that the RTK module is installed and connected to the drone.
- Enter the Autel Explorer app:
- Open the Autel Explorer app on the smart remote controller (make sure it is the latest version).
- Enter the Settings menu and find the RTK Settings option.
- Configure NTRIP parameters:
- Select "Local NTRIP" mode.
- Enter the following information:
- Server address (IP or domain name): The address of the local NTRIP server.
- Port number: Usually 2101 or other specified port.
- Username and password: If the service requires authentication.
- Mount point: Select a suitable mount point, usually listed by the service provider. Confirm that the network connection is normal and the remote control can access the server.
Connect and verify the NTRIP service
Click "Connect" or "Apply" and wait for the RTK status to update.
Observe the RTK status on the application interface, which usually shows "FIX" (fixed solution) to successfully obtain high-precision positioning, or "FLOAT" (floating solution) to indicate that it is still optimizing.
Check positioning accuracy
Enter the flight interface to view the number of GPS/RTK satellites and positioning accuracy. After successful configuration, the accuracy should reach the centimeter level.
UAV surveying and mapping
Once communication is established between Reach and the drone, you can perform flights. Make sure the Autel EVO II Enterprise has a clear view of the sky before continuing with the mission.
After the flight is complete, you can download the geotagged images and use them for further mapping in photogrammetry software.
Notes on local NTRIP service for Autel EVO II Enterprise
Network stability: Local NTRIP requires a stable network connection. If the signal is interrupted, it may cause the RTK state to be lost and fall back to normal GPS mode.
Base station distance: The distance between the local base station and the drone is recommended to be within 10-20 kilometers to ensure data quality. The transmission distance of Autel EVO II V3 series drones can reach 15KM.
Environmental interference: Avoid using in areas with dense high-rise buildings or strong electromagnetic interference, which may affect signal reception.
Firmware update: Make sure the firmware of the drone, RTK module and remote controller are all the latest version to avoid compatibility issues.
Local NTRIP vs. Cloud NTRIP
Autel EVO II RTK series drones, Autel EVO II RTK Enterprise series drones, and Autel EVO MAX RTK series drones all support RTK, PPK, and network RTK functions, and can perform high-precision positioning tasks in complex terrains. They are widely used in aerial photography, building inspection, or precision agriculture.
Compared with cloud NTRIP, local NTRIP services have lower latency and more reliable data transmission in local settings, which is especially suitable for remote areas or specific tasks.
Summary
RTK drones have great potential in the surveying and mapping industry. NTRIP services can be used to perform drone geographic image tagging, improve surveying and mapping conditions and tasks, and can also be combined with PPK functions to obtain high-precision results, which is convenient for further mapping.
