SensorCloud RTK is a multi-continent, IP-based RTK cloud network that simplifies the complex and cumbersome RTK corrections pipeline into a streamlined user experience. Designed by MicroStrain by HBK, it delivers centimeter-level position accuracy with unprecedented ease of implementation and cost-effectiveness for autonomous robotics applications.

SensorCloud RTK leverages a high-density base station network installed across the US, Europe, and other regions to deliver Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) corrections to compatible navigation systems. The service handles the backend logic of delivering exact corrections for your robot's location, cell backend communication, and device management, eliminating the need for you to manage multiple systems.

For the simplest implementation, you'll need a 3DM-GQ7-GNSS/INS navigation system and the 3DM-RTK cell modem. While you don't absolutely need the 3DM-RTK modem to use the service, it provides the easiest path to getting up and running with centimeter-level accuracy. The service is also compatible with the 3DM-CV7-GNSS/INS for higher-volume, cost-optimized production.

SensorCloud RTK delivers centimeter-level position accuracy when paired with compatible MicroStrain by HBK navigation systems. This level of accuracy is essential for applications like autonomous agriculture, precision drone operations, and delivery robots where precise positioning is critical for successful autonomous operation.

While free ground-truth stations for RTK corrections might seem appealing, they come with significant coverage limitations and commercial constraints. SensorCloud RTK provides:

• Comprehensive coverage through a high-density base station network
• No commercial usage restrictions
• Reliable and consistent service quality
• Professional technical support

Setting up SensorCloud RTK is designed to be simple. When using the 3DM-RTK modem with a 3DM-GQ7-GNSS/INS, it's truly plug-and-play – connect the modem to your navigation system, power it on, and the system will automatically connect to the SensorCloud RTK network to receive corrections. For custom implementations or alternative connection methods, our technical support team can provide guidance.

SensorCloud RTK is designed for any application that needs centimeter-level positioning accuracy. Key markets include:

• Autonomous agriculture (lawn mowers, spraying tractors, precision planters, weeders, pickers)
• Drones (photogrammetry, scanning, mapping, precise delivery, aerial spraying)
• Legged robots (security, site inspection, first responder applications)
• Wheeled delivery robots (food and package delivery, last-mile logistics)

SensorCloud RTK is designed with scalability in mind. You can start with the 3DM-GQ7-GNSS/INS and 3DM-RTK modem for development and testing, then seamlessly migrate to the cost-optimized 3DM-CV7-GNSS/INS for volume production.

For larger deployments, if your platform is already internet-connected, you can access our RTK corrections via our NTRIP API for a more cost-effective solution at scale. This approach eliminates the need for dedicated cellular modems in each unit while maintaining the same level of accuracy.

Our subscription model is flexible to accommodate growing fleet sizes, and our new supplier partnership enables better pricing for large-scale deployments.

Our high-density base station network is installed with built-in reliability across the US, Europe, and other regions. In Spring 2025, we switched to a new supplier which improved our performance and reliability while positioning us to offer better contracts and support for scale. The system is designed to maintain service even if individual base stations experience issues.

The 3DM-RTK modem requires cellular connectivity to receive RTK corrections from the cloud network. In areas with limited cellular coverage, performance may be affected. However, our navigation systems incorporate inertial sensors that help maintain accurate positioning during brief outages in RTK correction delivery. For applications in areas with consistently poor cellular coverage, please contact our technical team to discuss alternative solutions.

When using the 3DM-RTK modem with SensorCloud RTK, the system provides clear status indicators through our software interfaces. You can monitor the RTK Fix status in real-time, including the quality of the fix, the number of satellites being tracked, and the age of corrections. This transparency is crucial for debugging and ensuring reliable operation.

Yes, SensorCloud RTK is designed to work seamlessly with MicroStrain by HBK navigation systems, particularly the 3DM-GQ7-GNSS/INS and 3DM-CV7-GNSS/INS. While the service could potentially work with other systems that accept standard RTCM correction formats, we only provide support and guarantee performance with our own navigation systems.

Setting up your own base station requires significant expertise, infrastructure investment, and ongoing maintenance. It also limits your operational area to within range of your base station. SensorCloud RTK eliminates these challenges by providing a ready-to-use network that spans multiple continents, requires no infrastructure investment, and is professionally maintained. This approach is typically more cost-effective and allows for much greater operational flexibility.

We provide comprehensive support for SensorCloud RTK subscribers, including technical assistance with initial setup, troubleshooting guidance, and advice on optimizing your implementation. Our Applications Engineers have extensive experience with RTK implementations and can help ensure your autonomous systems achieve reliable centimeter-level accuracy.

To get started with SensorCloud RTK, contact our sales team to discuss your specific application requirements and the appropriate hardware configuration. We can recommend the right combination of navigation system and subscription package based on your accuracy needs, operational area, and deployment scale.