EMLID Tutorial: How to handle NTRIP and LiDAR Collection

What needs the hotspot and what doesn't? And in what order? Here's the steps!

The Emlid GNSS receiver is a powerful tool for capturing data for LiDAR surveys, but it can be tricky to use, especially when it comes to configuring the NTRIP connection. In this tutorial, we'll walk you through the steps for setting up and using the Emlid GNSS receiver for a LiDAR survey.

1. Arrive at the site: Before you start your survey, make sure you have all the necessary equipment.

2. Get out your Emlid Reach RS2(+) and targets: Decide where you want to place the Emlid and targets, and then set them up according to your missions specifications.

3. Connect the Emlid to your phone hotspot and NTRIP: Use the Emlid Flow app to connect your Emlid GNSS receiver to your phone and configure the NTRIP connection. In the GNSS settings, set the mode to "Kinematic."

4. Capture any points you need: Use the Emlid GNSS receiver to capture any points you need for your survey, including targets, known points, survey nails, monuments, utilities, and any other points of interest. Aim for a capture time of 1 minute per point while in FIX. If you're using a monument or known point as your base, aim for a capture time of 3 minutes.

5. Find an open area for the Emlid: Make sure you place the Emlid GNSS receiver in an open area where it has a clear view of the sky.

6. Reboot the Emlid and switch to Static mode: After you've captured all the points you need, reboot the Emlid GNSS receiver and switch the GNSS mode to "Static." At this point, you no longer need NTRIP or Internet.

7. In the Emlid Flow app, go to the Logging - RAW DATA section and start logging RINEX data according to the settings you've chosen. Instructions on that are here.

8. Set up your drone and LiDAR: Follow the ROCK Academy instructions to set up your drone and LiDAR unit.

9. Fly your mission: Once everything is set up, fly your mission for as long as it takes to capture the data you need.

10. When you're finished, break down and pack up all your LiDAR gear.

11. Go to your Emlid GNSS receiver and connect to its WiFi network: Connect your phone to the Emlid GNSS receiver's WiFi network.

12. Stop logging and download the files: In the Emlid Connect app, stop logging and download the files you've captured.

13. Save the files to your phone: Transfer the files to your phone, and then either email them to yourself or save them to a cloud storage service. You'll need this file for ROCK Desktop on the PC. 

Tips on Datums:

• Go through all your available datums and make a list. You may have 10 options, but you'll probably only end up using 2-3 based on client needs. You should isolate the exact EPSG you need when doing a project for a client - this is for the GCP's and points from the EMLID and the final deliverables.
• Some datums have different options for vertical datums (such as geoids) and units.