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Affordable RTK modules transforming smart agriculture
High-precision GNSS was too costly and complex but RTK GNSS innovations have made centimetre accuracy sustainable in Ag-Tech.
For most farms, centimetre-level positioning accuracy enabled by global navigation satellite system (GNSS) technology was out of reach, making applications from automated crop planting to cattle tracking unavailable to all but the largest organisations. Now, thanks to innovative approaches to GNSS, Ag-Tech organisations can access the benefits, regardless of scale.
Vendor innovations have been a critical enabler of democratised access to high-precision GNSS. By mass-producing GNSS receivers that feature real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning and offering affordable global RTK correction services, vendors, such as Quectel, are making precision positioning available to everyone.
RTK is no longer just for high-value machines, every device from seeders and sprayers to harvesters and livestock trackers can be precisely positioned. Tractors and sprayers can be guided accurately for reduced waste and higher yields. Livestock collars can utilize low-power modules like the Quectel LC76G, which features power draw of < 27 mW, to allow farmers to track animals for better herd management using virtual fencing. In addition, autonomous machinery can use features, such as the Quectel LG290P’s 20Hz RTK updates, to keep equipment running smoothly across large fields.
Precision at scale
Quectel’s comprehensive range of modules has been designed to support precision agriculture applications. The Quectel LC29H series offers compact, low-power dual-band modules with RTK and dead reckoning (DR). The series supports constellations including GPS, Galileo, BeiDou, GLONASS, QZSS and NavIC using modern L1 and L5 frequency bands to deliver centimetre-level accuracy even in tough conditions.
The Quectel LG290P, which has recently won the IoT Think Tank 2025 IoT Smart City Solution Award 2025, is a triple-band, high-speed receiver with excellent urban and orchard performance. The award recognizes innovations that deliver accuracy and reliability and Quectel’s success was for the LG290P’s adoption in projects that bring high-precision positioning into mainstream applications.
The Quectel LG580P offers an advanced RTK and heading capability for reliable machine control. The LG290P and LG580P support all constellations on L1, L2 and L5 bands, providing better accuracy and resiliency in difficult forested areas with extended baseline distances.
Global reach
Unlike old continuously operating reference station (CORS) networks, Quectel’s RTK Correction Solution uses the most advanced base stations, providing triple-band coverage with open RTCM protocols and simple cloud delivery. Developers can design their solutions in one country and scale globally with confidence.
Key Quectel GNSS features include:
· Accuracy: < 1 cm with RTK
· Bands: Dual Band L1 = L5 or Quad Band L1 + L2 + L5 + E6
· Coverage: USA, EU, APAC, LATAM and ANZ
Click here to view the RTK Network coverage map.
Quectel simplifies precision agriculture by being a single partner, providing RTK GNSS modules, correction services, SIM connectivity, cellular modules and antenna support under one roof.
More information:
GNSS modules: Overview | Quectel
GNSS RTK Correction Solution | Quectel]
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