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RTK Set Up For DJI Drones

Updated over a week ago

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.


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: ~1–2 cm

  • Vertical Accuracy: ~2–3 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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