Tractor planting accurately using RTK guidance
How RTK works

RTK tells the tractor where it really is.

Satellites give the tractor a position. A fixed base measures the small errors in that position and sends corrections over the internet. The tractor applies them and drives accurately and repeatably.

From satellites to accurate steering

The tractor still uses satellites. RTK simply gives it the extra information needed to remove most of the normal GNSS error.

The base knows its exact position

Because the base never moves, it can compare the satellite position with its accurately calibrated real position.

The correction travels over the internet

The base sends a small RTCM correction stream to our server, and NTRIP delivers it to the tractor through mobile data.

The tractor corrects its own position

The receiver combines the corrections with its satellite signals and reaches RTK FIX for centimetre-level, repeatable guidance.

RTCM is the correction data. NTRIP is the method used to send it over the internet. RTK FIX is the accurate solution shown on the tractor.

Four things must be in place

We check these before supply so you are not left paying for a service the machine cannot use.

1

RTK-ready receiver

The tractor must have a suitable GNSS receiver and the correct manufacturer RTK unlock.

2

NTRIP connection

The display, receiver or modem must be able to connect to an internet correction service.

3

Mobile data

The tractor needs a reliable internet connection while it is working.

4

Correct setup

The login, correction format, antenna offsets and steering calibration all need to be right.

Your own farm base or Base-Free RTK

Both send corrections to the tractor through NTRIP. The difference is where the correction comes from and how the service is priced.

Best for several machines

Farm RTK base

A local base is installed on your farm and joins the wider RTK Solutions network. One farm service can supply multiple compatible machines.

£2,995 + VAT including base and Year 1
  • £199 + VAT yearly from Year 2
  • Nearby physical correction source
  • Access to other available network bases
  • Battery, 4G and server failover

Base-Free RTK

The tractor receives corrections from an existing partner reference-station network, so no base is installed on the farm.

£400 + VAT per tractor per year
  • No farm hardware
  • One tractor per licence
  • UK-wide and supported European coverage
  • Free trial available

Not sure whether your machine is RTK-ready?

Send us the tractor, display and receiver model. We will check the unlocks, NTRIP support and which option makes the most sense.

Accuracy and RTK FIX availability depend on compatible equipment, correct setup, satellite visibility, correction latency, mobile data, antenna condition and local working conditions.