Geneq Introduces Palm-Sized GPS/GLONASS RTK Receiver for Real-Time Centimeter Accuracy

Geneq Inc. has launched the SXBlue III GNSS, a palm-sized GNSS RTK receiver that uses both GPS and GLONASS for real-time centimeter accuracy. Via Bluetooth, it brings centimeter accuracy to any smartphone, handheld, tablet, or notebook computer that is Bluetooth-compliant.

According to the announcement, the SXBlue III GNSS uses new, patented technology that allows it to generate corrections for both GPS and GLONASS satellite data even if the user’s reference station (or RTK network) only supports GPS. This opens up productivity benefits of GLONASS to all high-precision users around the world, and not just ones who have access to GLONASS-enabled reference stations, Geneq said.

“With its competitive price and creative implementation of GLONASS, the SXBlue III GNSS will open new doors for users who want to improve their productivity with GLONASS but don’t have control over their reference station infrastructure,” said Jean-Yves Lauture, product engineer. “With the SXBlue III GNSS, the user doesn’t need to be concerned with their RTK reference station at all. It could be a 20 year-old GPS-only reference station and the SXBlue III GNSS will still create corrections for the GLONASS data and allow you the benefit of GPS/GLONASS RTK productivity in the field.”

By implementing GLONASS, the SXBlue III GNSS immediately increases your RTK productivity with its ability to track 55 satellites (31 GPS, 24 GLONASS). With 12 to 19 satellites in view at all times, the SXBlue III GNSS provides superior performance when working in tough environments such as in and around tree canopy, buildings, and rugged terrain.

The company reports the next-generation SXBlue III GNSS is a small, palm-sized unit that uses a 2.7-inch diameter GNSS antenna. The unit is  waterproof (submersible), dustproof, and ruggedized, with an IP-67 rating. Its Class-1 long-range Bluetooth 2.0 has a typical range of 250 meters. The internal, rechargeable, field replaceable Li-Ion battery has on-board LEDs to let the user know how much battery life is left. The operating temperature range of the SXBlue III GNSS is -40°C (-40°F) to 85°C (185°F).

In addition to the built-in long-range Bluetooth transceiver, the SXBlue III GNSS also has a standard DB-9 RS-232 port and a USB Type B port whose outputs are fully programmable up to 10-Hz standard with a 20-Hz option.

The SXBlue III GNSS is targeted at high-precision users in industries such as surveying, GIS, utilities, construction, agriculture, engineering, and other natural resource industries in addition to local, state, and federal government users.