Single-base RTK accuracy is not constant across distance, it degrades roughly linearly the further the rover moves from the base station, because atmospheric conditions between base and rover become less correlated with distance. This tool visualizes that relationship directly so you can decide, before you drive out to site, whether a single base setup will cover your whole project or whether you need to relocate the base partway through.
Why Distance Degrades Accuracy
RTK correction assumes that atmospheric delay affecting the base station's satellite signals is nearly identical to the delay affecting the rover's signals. That assumption holds well at short distances but weakens as separation increases, since the two receivers are now looking through different slices of atmosphere. This is the core reason single-base DGPS RTK has an effective working radius rather than unlimited range.
| Distance from Base | Typical Horizontal Accuracy | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 5 km | 1 to 2cm | Ideal, no action needed |
| 5 to 10 km | 2 to 3cm | Good for most survey work |
| 10 to 20 km | 3 to 6cm | Acceptable for topographic detail, verify against control |
| Above 20 km | 6cm+ | Relocate base or switch to network RTK |
What To Do When Your Site Exceeds Single-Base Range
Two practical solutions exist: physically relocate the base station partway through the project so no rover position ever exceeds the reliable radius, or switch to network RTK using permanent reference stations over mobile internet, which maintains consistent accuracy across a much larger area without moving your own equipment. For linear projects like pipelines or highways spanning tens of kilometres, base relocation every 15 to 20km is standard practice.
Base station relocation midway through a long linear corridor survey to maintain accuracy.
Planning a Long Corridor Survey?
We plan base placement and relocation strategy in advance so accuracy never degrades across your project.
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