Other general considerations – Spectra Precision ProMark 800 Reference Manual User Manual
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Precise Surveying - Field Applications & Concepts
Integer Ambiguity: “Integer” refers to the number of entire 
wavelengths of signal carrier separating a satellite from a 
receiver. “Ambiguity” refers to the fact that this number is 
unknown at the beginning of a survey. Solving integer 
ambiguity therefore means determining the exact number of 
entire wavelengths.
Other General
Considerations
RTK Real-Time vs. Post-Processing
In real-time surveys, system initialization is achieved when 
the system has been able to fix an RTK solution for any new 
position it computes. You just have to make sure this 
operating status is maintained until the end of the survey. In 
real time, it is therefore quite natural that you make sure the 
initialization process has been successful. Should you lose 
the “RTK” position status, then the system has lost 
initialization and you should act to restore it.
In post-processed surveys, there is the same need for 
initialization except that the system is not always able to 
inform you, in real time, that this requirement is met. 
Remember that in this type of survey, your system is just a 
raw data collector.
It is only subsequently, when back at the office to post-
process the raw data that you will see if the complete set of 
collected data results in successful and sustained 
initialization.
Kinematic vs. Static
In static surveys, the risk of unsuccessful initialization is 
significantly lessened by the fact that the GNSS antenna is 
motionless and the system is operated for relatively long 
recording sessions with the best possible view of the sky.
This may not be true for kinematic surveys during which the 
rover is moved from place to place, with real risks of:
• Masking the GNSS antenna causing lock on satellites to
be lost.
Good distribution
of satellites in space
Excellent GDOP
(0 Poor distribution of satellites in space Poor GDOP (PDOP>5) Your GNSS antenna
