This setup guide will describe how to configure the FarmTRX mobile app for sending RTK corrections to the Yield Monitor Plus+ to improve the positional accuracy of your harvest data. This feature is exclusively available for Yield Monitor Plus+ users and requires a constant internet connection in the cab. Mobile App version 4.18 or greater is required.
Step 1: Determine Your Correction Source
Before setting up your NTRIP client, you will need to know what correction source is being used. Any corrections source will use the same set of parameters needed to configure the NTRIP client. For a source, you have several options:
- Government Provided CORS Network: Some states offer CORS networks that provide RTK correction data. These networks are often maintained by the State agricultural departments or other government agencies. Check if your state or region provides such a service and if there are base stations within range of your farm.
- Paid Independent Service Providers: Alternatively, you can access RTK correction data from independent service providers. This includes regional GNSS service provider networks that may offer more comprehensive coverage or specialized services tailored to specific agricultural regions.
- Free Services: Free NTRIP caster services, such as RTK2go®, provide access to RTK correction data at no cost. These services may rely on community-contributed base station data or partnerships with GNSS hardware manufacturers.
- DIY - Your Own Base Station: If you have a base station pushing corrections to a web client you will configure the client to point to your own server.
Step 2: Network Information
Regardless of the chosen correction source, you will need to gather specific information to configure your NTRIP client. Here's what is needed:
- IP Address or URL: This is the network address where the correction data is streamed from. It could be provided by your state's CORS network, an independent service provider, or a free service. If you're using your own base station, it is the IP address or URL of your server.
- Port Number: The port through which the correction data is transmitted. It is usually specified along with the IP address or URL.
- Mount Point: The mount point is a specific identifier for the correction stream you want to access. When selecting a mount point, consider factors such as proximity to your location, network coverage, and availability of correction data.
- Authentication Credentials (if required): Some networks or services may require authentication for access. If required, you will need to enter a username and password provided by the network administrator.
Gather this information from the chosen correction source before configuring the NTRIP client in the Harvest Mobile App.
Step 3: Configure NTRIP Client in Harvest Mobile App
- Connect to the Yield Monitor Plus+ on the FarmTRX Mobile App. Once connected, navigate to the “GPS” page from the app main menu.
- At the bottom of the screen, select the NTRIP client tab. This tab will only be available if connected to a Yield Monitor Plus+.
- Press “configure”.
- Using the parameters gathered in Step 2: Network Information, input each value into the relevant fields. This includes:
- IP Address or URL: Enter the network address provided by your chosen correction source.
- Port Number: Input the port number through which the correction data is transmitted.
- Mount Point: Specify the identifier for the correction stream you want to access.
- Authentication Credentials (if required): If authentication is needed, enter the provided username and password.
- Once entered click "Save" to complete the configuration process. This will store your settings and initiate the connection to the correction source.
- To start casting RTK corrections, press the toggle located at the top right of the screen so that it is turned to “On”.
Step 5: Verifying Successful Configuration
To confirm the configuration was successful and RTK corrections are active, check the following two indicators:
- Bytes Being Sent: On the NTRIP tab, observe the data transmission. If bytes are being sent, it indicates that the app is successfully communicating with the correction source.
- GPS Fix Mode: Navigate to the GPS Info tab within the app. Here, you'll find information about your GPS signal. Look for the "Fix Mode" parameter, which should indicate either "Float" or "Real Time."
Keep in mind that maintaining corrections requires constant internet connection and the app cannot be dismissed to the background.
Troubleshooting & Tips
There are several metrics to monitor to ensure your RTK corrections are maintained while harvesting:
- Confirm distance to mount point: Ensure that the distance between your location and the mount point (correction source) does not exceed roughly 30 kilometers (approximately 20 miles). This range may vary depending on factors such as terrain and signal strength.
- App must remain active: Correction data is sent to the Yield Monitor ECU via Bluetooth® channel. Therefore, the Harvest app must remain active and cannot be running in the background for continuous reception of corrections.
- Ensure internet connectivity: Corrections are pulled from the NTRIP client via an internet connection. Ensure that your device has cellular reception or use a modem in the combine cab broadcasting a Wi-Fi network to maintain connectivity throughout the operation.