L5 GPS logger

GPS/GNSS
1

I’m trying to build a logging survey device using an Android tablet and the Sparksfun antenna with L5 reception (SPK6618H). The RTK Express is perfect for my use case except that it doesn’t support L5. Are there any similar products that would? The OTG port on the tablet is taken with other hardware, so ideally it would connect to the tablet via bluetooth. Worst case I could use a hub.

2

Welcome @Kris46 !

L2 is still more useful than L5 if I could only pick one (in my opinion).

I’m a big fan of Sparkfun’s Quad-band Postcard.

If you have specific requirements for logging with a manufacturer’s proprietary “RAW” format, you might also consider the U-blox X20 or a Mosaic X5 based system, etc.

All these will work with L1/L2/L5 and that very nice antenna, it really just depends on your specific direction for your logging application.

3

Thanks! Yeah, I was focused on L5 because I need to survey in urban areas. But if L2 is all need I’d much prefer a pre-built solution like the Express.

4

Well, I said "if I could only pick one " :wink:
But much of that opinion is related to OPUS, which probably isn’t a factor for you.

Everything we read about L5 on the internet says it will be superior to L2 one day, I just haven’t personally experienced it. I can say I have noticed better performance under tree canopy when comparing devices that utilize L1/L2/L5 verses L1/L2 only (a PostCard/Torch verse Facet/Express for example) in side-by-side tests.

But it’s important to remember that canopy is similar to an urban environment where you have to be realistic with yourself about any GNSS device’s performance/accuracy in those conditions.

There’s no right or wrong answer. If you mainly need waypoints/tracks, then pick a device with the formfactor that suits you best.

You mentioned logging, so will you be performing any post-processing ?
Any reason you wouldn’t consider a network RTK rover via a NTRIP correction source?
Half the States (in the US) have free RTK Networks, or a PointPerfect Account is very cheap if your state doesn’t have a free CORS network.