Septentrio PPK gets a boost with BaseFinder

Septentrio’s post-processing kinematic (PPK) software has been upgraded with multi-GNSS and BaseFinder functionality. BaseFinder improves project efficiency by automatically finding the most suitable reference station data needed for centimeter-level accuracy.

Both GeoTagZ and PP-SDK now feature BaseFinder, which speeds up survey workflow by automatically finding reference data needed for augmenting GNSS logs with sub-centimeter accuracy. BaseFinder accesses an online database of reference networks and extracts the most suitable corrections available. BaseFinder is available via an app or via an API and can be incorporated into any existing software.

PPK is often used for ground surveys with aerial drones, allowing high precision georeferencing without the need for a real-time base station link or ground control points (GCPs).

“Surveying without a base station will allow users to reduce costs and set-up time. With this PPK upgrade we are improving the end-user experience as well as developer experience,” said Danilo Sabbatini, product manager at Septentrio.

The new release of this GNSS post-processing software also includes two additional GNSS constellations: European Galileo and Chinese BeiDou. Having access to all the signals from all GNSS constellations improves reference network compatibility. It also improves positioning availability in difficult environments. This is particularly important when working in areas of low satellite visibility such as near tall structures or under foliage.

When doing photogrammetry with a drone, GNSS data is often recorded and then post-processed together with base station data to achieve sub-centimeter positioning accuracy. This base station data can be obtained either with proprietary base stations or by using base station data from a public reference network (see diagram below). Septentrio receivers are designed to bring accurate and reliable positioning to photogrammetry, aerial inspection, marine survey as well as mobile mapping.

GPS Post-Processing SDK architecture, bringing high-accuracy positioning without the need for a real-time correction stream. (Diagram: Septentrio)