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RTK Set Up For DJI Drones

Overview

Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning improves GNSS accuracy from meter-level to centimetre-level by using correction data from a known reference source. DJI RTK-capable drones can receive corrections via:

  • DJI D-RTK 2 / D-RTK 3 Mobile Station

  • Network RTK (NTRIP)

  • Custom base stations

This article explains how to set up and verify RTK on supported DJI drones. For an explanation of what RTK is and whether you need it, see our separate RTK Explained article.


Supported DJI Platforms (Common Examples)

  • Matrice 300 RTK

  • Matrice 350 RTK

  • Matrice 30 / 30T (with RTK module)

  • Mavic 3 Enterprise / Enterprise Thermal

  • Matrice 4D / 4TD (Dock & non-Dock variants)

Always confirm RTK compatibility in the aircraft specifications.


What You Need Before Setup

  • RTK-capable DJI aircraft

  • DJI RC Plus / RC Plus 2 or compatible controller

  • DJI Pilot 2 (latest version recommended)

  • One of the following RTK correction sources:

    • D-RTK 2 or D-RTK 3 Mobile Station

    • Network RTK credentials (NTRIP)

  • Clear sky view for both aircraft and RTK source


RTK Setup Using DJI Pilot 2

Step 1: Power On Equipment

  1. Power on the RTK base station (if used)

  2. Power on the remote controller

  3. Power on the aircraft

Allow all devices to complete boot-up.


Step 2: Access RTK Settings

  1. Open DJI Pilot 2

  2. Enter the Flight Interface

  3. Tap Settings

  4. Navigate to Positioning / RTK


Step 3: Enable RTK

  • Toggle RTK Positioning to ON

  • Select the correction source:

    • D-RTK Mobile Station

    • Network RTK

    • Custom Base Station


Option A: Using DJI D-RTK 2 / D-RTK 3 Mobile Station

Setup Steps

  1. Place the D-RTK station on stable ground or a tripod

  2. Ensure a clear, unobstructed sky view

  3. Power on the station and allow GNSS convergence (typically 2–5 minutes)

  4. In DJI Pilot 2:

    • Select D-RTK Mobile Station

    • Wait for connection confirmation

Verification

  • RTK status should show FIX

  • GNSS icon will indicate high-precision positioning


Option B: Using Network RTK (NTRIP)

Required Information

  • NTRIP Server Address

  • Port

  • Mount Point

  • Username

  • Password

Setup Steps

  1. Select Network RTK

  2. Enter NTRIP credentials

  3. Save and connect

  4. Ensure the controller has a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or SIM)

Verification

  • RTK status changes from FLOAT to FIX

  • Positioning accuracy improves within seconds to minutes


Confirming RTK Is Working

Check the following indicators in DJI Pilot 2:

  • RTK Status: FIX

  • Horizontal Accuracy: approximately 1–3 cm

  • Vertical Accuracy: approximately 2–5 cm

  • Satellite Count: Stable across GNSS systems

RTK is not active if status remains OFF, FLOAT, or SINGLE.


Common Issues & Troubleshooting

RTK Will Not Fix

  • Ensure clear sky view (avoid buildings, trees, vehicles)

  • Check base station distance (typically <30–50 km for NTRIP)

  • Confirm correct NTRIP credentials

  • Restart aircraft, controller, and RTK source

RTK Disconnects in Flight

  • Check controller internet stability (for Network RTK)

  • Avoid rapid take-off before RTK reaches FIX

  • Ensure firmware is up to date on all devices

RTK Enabled but Accuracy Not Improving

  • Verify RTK source is connected

  • Check satellite signal strength

  • Confirm correct coordinate system if using custom base stations


Best Practices

  • Wait for RTK FIX before take-off

  • Use a tripod for mobile stations whenever possible

  • Keep firmware consistent across aircraft, controller, and RTK hardware

  • Re-check RTK status after battery swaps


When RTK Is Recommended

  • Surveying & mapping

  • Photogrammetry

  • Inspection with georeferenced data

  • Repeatable flight paths

  • Dock and automated missions requiring high positional accuracy

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