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Setting Up RTK and Resolving Common Issues

  • Updated

This guide explains how to properly configure RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) for GPS devices in the Locusview mobile app for both Gen 2 and Gen 3 users, including a setup checklist and troubleshooting guide.

Checklist (Before You Begin)

  • GPS On & Paired: Power on the GPS device and ensure it is paired to the tablet via Bluetooth.
  • Turn on Google Location Services 
    • Open Google Maps.
    • If you see “Make it your map,” tap Skip.
    • Tap the Locate Me button (target icon) and choose While Using This App when prompted.
    • If prompted “For a better experience, your device will need to use Location Accuracy,” tap Turn On. The map should zoom to your blue pin.
  • Good Internet Connection: Ensure stable cellular data or Wi-Fi connectivity.
  • Correct Credentials: Verify you have the correct RTK/NTRIP Address, Port, Username, and Password.

RTK Setup

Select the gen you are using: 

Gen 2 — Configure RTK
  1. Open Locusview
    • Launch the Locusview mobile app on the tablet.
  2. Menu → Devices (External Hardware)
    • Tap the Menu icon (☰) → Devices (or External Hardware).
  3. Re-select the GPS
    • Even if the GPS already shows as selected, tap it again to refresh the Bluetooth link.
  4. Open RTK
    • From Devices/External Hardware, open RTK (sometimes labeled NTRIP).
  5. Enter Server Details
    • Address: type in all lowercase.
    • Port: 10000.
    • Username: Only the first letter capitalized. Exception: If username is rtk, use all lowercase.
    • Password: Only the A is capitalized (e.g., Axxxx). Exception: If the password is rtk, use all lowercase.
  6. Connect & Choose Stream
    • Tap Connect to server. If successful, a list of streams appears.
    • Select your state from the list.
  7. Verify RTK Status
    • Look for RTK Connected / Fixed in the status area and confirm sub-foot accuracy.
    • If any errors occur, they will display at the top of the screen.
Gen 3 — Configure RTK
  1. Open Locusview
    • Launch the Locusview mobile app on the tablet.
  2. Menu → Devices (External Hardware)
    • Tap the Menu icon (☰) → Devices (or External Hardware).
  3. Re-select the GPS
    • Even if the GPS is already selected, tap it again to refresh the connection before configuring RTK.
  4. Open RTK
    • From Devices/External Hardware, open RTK (sometimes labeled NTRIP).
  5. Enter Server Details
    • Address: type in all lowercase.
    • Port: 10000.
    • Username: Only the first letter capitalized. Exception: If username is rtk, use all lowercase.
    • Password: Only the A is capitalized. Exception: If password is rtk, use all lowercase.
  6. Select Stream
    • Tap Select Stream. If successful, a list of streams appears.
    • Choose your state from the list.
  7. Verify RTK Status
    • Confirm RTK Connected / Fixed and sub-foot accuracy.
    • Any errors will display at the top of the screen.

Troubleshooting Errors

  • No connection to the GPS error:
    • Turn the GPS off, then back on.
    • Force close the Locusview app.
    • Reopen Locusview → Menu > Devices and select the GPS again.
    • Set up RTK once more using the steps above.
  • “Connection failed. Verify settings and retry" error
    • Ensure Google Location Services is on 
    • Check your credentials carefully:
      • Address: all lowercase.
      • Port: 10000.
      • Username: first letter capitalized (unless rtk).
      • Password: only “A” capitalized (unless rtk).
    • Common causes: misspelled address or incorrect capitalization.
    • Force close Locusview, power the GPS off/on, and retry.
  • RTK connects but accuracy is poor (DGPS or Float):
    • Move to an open-sky area; avoid buildings or obstructions.
    • Ensure stable internet; toggle Airplane Mode on/off to refresh.
    • Re-select the GPS and confirm the correct state stream is chosen.
  • Frequent disconnects:
    • Check for weak signal or Wi-Fi drops.
    • Ensure only one device is using the same RTK credentials at a time.

Additional Notes and Best Practices

  • Always re-select the GPS before configuring RTK to refresh the Bluetooth link.
  • Open Locusview after the GPS is powered on and paired.
  • Keep GPS firmware updated and fully charged.
  • If shared credentials are in use, only one active session can connect at a time.

FAQs

  • Where do errors appear during RTK setup?
    Errors display at the top of the RTK screen in Locusview.
  • My address works on one tablet but not another.
    Re-enable Google Location Services and verify the address is all lowercase on both devices.
  • Do capitalization rules matter?
    Yes. Address must be lowercase. Username is first-letter uppercase (unless it’s rtk). Password has only the “A” uppercase (unless it’s rtk).
  • I connected but don’t see my state.
    Gen 2: tap Connect to server first, then pick your state. Gen 3: tap Select Stream, then choose your state. If you are in Kentucky, the city is fine. 

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