Testing the maximum distance using radio

What and how did we test radio?

Logically we wanted to test the performance of correctional data through radio since this works differently from what we commonly use. We wanted to see what data we received from the basestation and we wanted to know the distance that could be achieved from the basestation and still get a fix.

As mentioned in this article; radio relies a lot on line of sight. Therefor it was important that we installed the basestation on a high location so that we could cover a larger area. We were able to install our basestation on top of a tower which ensured a wide view of the area. This enabled us to look further and really test the possible distance between the basestation and the rover.

Now it was important to identify and locate places that had a line of sight with our basestation. As you might understand, finding locations further and further away gets increasingly difficult. Our short range tests were already very successful, so now it was a matter of increasing the range while maintaining line of sight.

We spotted a blue flag in the distance somewhere near a canal, but now we had to identify where that was exactly and where we had to be to still have line of sight. After thourough detective work and a sharp eye, we were able to identify the blue flag and it was 11km from the basestation, a distance we had not tried yet.

After searching for the specific location where we had line-of-sight through the trees, we were able to find it. It was noticeable that the distance was making it more difficult and we had to be very precise with the orientation of the UNI itself and the exact placing. After rotating the UNI to properly face in the direction of the basestation and finding the exact location, we were able to measure a point with an accuraccy of 1.7cm (FIX) within a few minutes.

Can I also achieve this distance?

Theoretically, yes. However this was mainly a test to see how far we could take it. In normal circumstances, this distance would rarely be needed and you should be able to position or re-position the basestation closer to your surveying site. However, since we were able to achieve it, so should you in similar circumstances. We did not do anything that you are not able to do yourself, small adjustments in the radio settings to favour distance could help further.

Is this the maximum that can be achieved?

We are not entirely sure, this was the maximum that we were able to achieve during our test. However, we also had some suggestions and locations that might have been possible, but we ran out of time. We are very curious as well, so we will test larger distances in the future!