The SparkFun RTK Postcard and Portability Shield: A High-Precision, Flexible Duo
In our newest video, we explore how these two boards come together to create a powerful, portable, and flexible GNSS surveying device.
The RTK Postcard reaches its full potential as a surveyor when combined with the Portability Shield, combining the quadband reception of the LG290P with the display and datalogging capabilties of the shield. Check out our latest video to watch us demo it, and keep reading to learn more about all the devices involved.
The SparkFun RTK Postcard: High Precision and Full Flexibility
The RTK Postcard is a breakout board, giving you the flexibility to design the layout however you like while providing direct access to all the pins. It features:
- Quad-Band, multi-constellation, high-precision, RTK GNSS receiver
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless data transfer
- Open-source OS firmware (RTK Everywhere) so you don’t have to dig through pages of datasheets to get started
$174.95
The SparkFun Portability Shield: Take RTK Precision on the Go
The Portability Shield is designed to be pin-compatible with the RTK Postcard. After soldering headers, the two come together like any shield, leaving room for a battery in the middle. This shield enhances functionality with:
- 1.3” OLED display for real-time monitoring
- Five-way button for navigation and configuration
- MicroSD card slot for data logging
- LiPo battery charger with a fuel gauge for portable operation
- Our engineers even designed a housing for this unit, and you can download the STEP files from our product page. Attach an antenna using the SMA connector on top, and you’ve got a handheld, high-precision GNSS rover device.
The best part of combining these two boards? They operate plug-and-play without the need for new code. If you want a deeper dive into the specs and navigation of this unit, check out the original video we did with our founder, Nathan.
RTK Fix Mode: Achieving Inch-Level Accuracy
One of the standout features of the RTK Postcard is its ability to achieve RTK Fix mode, providing:
- 1 to 2 meters of accuracy in standard mode
- Inch-level accuracy (down to 0.026 meters) in RTK Fix mode
This level of accuracy makes it perfect for applications like:
- Surveying
- Ground control units for drones
- Robotics projects
A Perfect Middle Ground in the SparkPNT Ecosystem
At SparkPNT, we offer a wide range of GNSS products, allowing you the freedom to choose your hardware. You can start from scratch with prototyping solutions like the ZED-F9P or choose a fully built unit like the RTK Facet. And now, you can opt for a flexible middle ground with the RTK Postcard + Portability Shield. We like to call this combination a 90% project—providing an extremely high-precision GNSS solution in a flexible form factor, all for under a few hundred dollars.
