When OPUS Fails
Professional Survey Alternatives
How RTX PPP Works
Trimble CenterPoint RTX - Precise Point Positioning
Overview
RTX PPP (Precise Point Positioning) is a satellite-based correction service that provides centimeter-level accuracy without requiring a local base station or CORS network connection. It's ideal when OPUS is unavailable or CORS coverage is sparse.
How It Works
- Global network of reference stations monitors satellite signals
- Corrections broadcast via satellite or internet
- Your receiver applies corrections in real-time or post-processing
- Achieves cm-level accuracy after convergence (15-45 min)
Accuracy Specs
- Horizontal: 1-2 cm
- Vertical: 3-5 cm
- Convergence: 15-45 minutes
- Coverage: Global
Best Use Cases
- ✓ Remote areas with no CORS
- ✓ When OPUS servers are down
- ✓ International projects
- ✓ Long observation sessions (1-2+ hours)
- ✓ Post-processed applications
- ✓ Offshore/marine surveying
Workflow
Setup: Subscribe to RTX service and configure receiver
Observe: Collect data for 1-2+ hours with clear sky view
Process: Apply RTX corrections in Trimble Business Center or real-time in field
Verify: Check solution quality metrics and repeat measurements
💡 Pro Tip
RTX PPP excels when you can't connect to OPUS or local CORS networks. The longer your observation time, the better your results. For control work, observe for 2+ hours and verify with redundant observations.
How This Tool Works
Purpose
This interactive 3D visualization helps land surveyors explore professional alternatives when NOAA's OPUS (Online Positioning User Service) is unavailable or unsuitable for their project.
How to Use
- Click any method button at the bottom to activate
- Watch the 3D node highlight and display key information
- Review accuracy ratings and technical details
- Methods are color-coded by category
- Special modals provide deep-dive explanations
Categories
NGS OPUS-Related
Direct alternatives from National Geodetic Survey
Commercial Services
Subscription-based professional solutions
Independent Processing
Manual CORS baseline processing methods
PPP Solutions
Precise Point Positioning services
Real-Time
RTK and network-based immediate solutions
Understanding Accuracy
The reliability percentage shown represents:
- Overall solution quality
- Network availability and coverage
- Ease of use and accessibility
- Typical horizontal/vertical precision
3D Visualization
The central gray octahedron represents the failed OPUS connection. Each colored node surrounding it represents an alternative method. Brighter, more opaque connections indicate currently selected methods.
Navigation
• Click + drag to rotate view
• Scroll to zoom in/out
• Mobile: pinch to zoom, swipe to rotate
Created for professional land surveyors by Land Surveyors United community