Overcoming Common GNSS Challenges in Land Surveying

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) have transformed the way land surveyors work. With modern equipment like the GeoMax Zenith60 Pro, time spent in the field is reduced and accuracy is improved. But like every technology, GNSS is not without its challenges. Surveyors still face common GNSS challenges that can cause frustration and delays if not addressed properly.

Here are the most common GNSS challenges and how to overcome them.

1. Signal Blockages: Trees, Buildings, and Terrain

One of the most frequent issues surveyors face is loss of satellite visibility. Tall buildings, dense tree canopies, and rugged terrain can all block or weaken GNSS signals, reducing accuracy.

How to minimise it:

• Plan ahead – Use satellite prediction tools to identify when more satellites will be visible and schedule your fieldwork accordingly.

• Choose open areas – Where possible, position your base station or rover in locations with maximum sky visibility.

• Use multi-constellation receivers – Accessing GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou together increases the chance of strong coverage in difficult environments.

Recommendation: 

The Zenith60 Pro is designed for challenging field conditions with tilt compensation and advanced signal tracking, while the Zenith55 offers reliable performance at a competitive price point.

2. Multipath Errors

Multipath errors occur when signals bounce off surfaces like buildings, vehicles, or even water before reaching your GNSS receiver. The result is distorted measurements that compromise accuracy.

How to minimise it:

• Avoid reflective surfaces – Set up equipment away from glass, metal, or water.

• Use receivers with multipath rejection technology – Modern GNSS receivers can filter out weak reflected signals.

• Adjust antenna height – Raising the antenna slightly can reduce the impact of ground reflections.

Recommendation: 

Both the Zenith60 Pro and Zenith55 include multipath rejection technology to ensure reliable results, even in built-up environments.

3. Working in Remote or Low-Coverage Areas

In remote locations, surveyors may struggle with poor RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) network coverage. Without a stable correction service, achieving high precision can be difficult.

How to minimise it:

• Use a local base station – Setting up your own base improves reliability when no network is available.

• Leverage PPP (Precise Point Positioning) – Useful for isolated sites, although convergence times are longer.

• Choose a receiver with offline capabilities – Some devices allow you to store raw GNSS data for post-processing.

Recommendation: 

The ProNet correction service provides reliable RTK network coverage across the UK, ensuring consistent accuracy for both the Zenith60 Pro and Zenith55 receivers, even in remote or complex environments.

4. Practical Tips for Surveyors in the Field

• Carry backup power – GNSS receivers and controllers are only as good as their battery life.

• Maintain your equipment – Regular calibration and servicing prevent small issues from becoming major problems.

• Use hybrid methods – Combine GNSS with total stations or laser scanning when conditions demand it.

• Improve your workflow – Use X-PAD Software’s unique features like personalised codelists to adapt your workflow for maximum efficiency.

Contact us if you want to know more about the GeoMax GNSS ranges,  Zenith60 Pro and Zenith55, or the ProNet correction service. 

If you know what you are after, use our Build Your Own GNSS feature