What Is NTRIP and How to Use It with Android Devices

Modern RTK GNSS surveying often relies on something called NTRIP to deliver correction data over the internet. If you’re using an Android phone or tablet with your GNSS rover, NTRIP is one of the easiest ways to get centimeter-level accuracy in real time.

🌐 What Is NTRIP?

NTRIP stands for Networked Transport of RTCM via Internet Protocol.

It’s a system that streams GNSS correction data from a caster server to your rover over the internet. It allows your receiver to achieve RTK FIX using live corrections from a remote base station or a continuously operating reference station (CORS) network.

🧭 How NTRIP Works (Simplified)

1. Your GNSS rover connects to the internet via Android (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
2. You enter your NTRIP caster’s details (IP, port, mount point, credentials).
3. Your GNSS receiver receives live correction data (RTCM).
4. You achieve centimeter-level accuracy as long as the connection is stable.

📱 How to Use NTRIP on Android

Follow these steps to use your Android phone for RTK corrections via NTRIP:

1. Install a GNSS-compatible data collector app (e.g., Field Genius Android, Lefebure NTRIP Client, SW Maps, or SurvX).
2. Make sure your GNSS rover is paired with the Android phone via Bluetooth or USB.
3. Launch the app and go to the NTRIP settings.
4. Enter your caster IP, port, username, password, and mountpoint (usually provided by your RTK provider).
5. Start the connection — once it’s successful, your rover will begin receiving RTCM corrections.

You should see your rover status go from SINGLE ➝ FLOAT ➝ FIX within 10–30 seconds.

🧰 What You Need

• 📡 GNSS Rover (e.g. Emlid RS2, South Galaxy G1, Trimble R8s)
• 📱 Android device with mobile internet
• 🔗 Bluetooth or cable to connect to GNSS receiver
• 🛰️ NTRIP caster access (public or paid subscription)

Tip: Some regions offer free public CORS NTRIP access — check with your local surveying authority.

✅ Advantages of NTRIP

• ✔️ Long-range coverage (up to 50 km or more)
• ✔️ No need for radio setup
• ✔️ Easy setup with modern Android apps
• ✔️ Ideal for mobile and urban survey jobs

❗ Common Issues to Watch

• 📶 Mobile internet coverage — ensure you have good signal
• 🔐 Incorrect mountpoint or login info
• ❌ App not authorized to use Bluetooth/GNSS

Always test your NTRIP setup in a known location before starting a critical job.

🔧 Need Help Setting Up NTRIP?

We offer free tutorials and tested GNSS kits that support Android NTRIP workflows. Contact us if you’re not sure how to get started!

🛒 See Compatible Android RTK Kits

Next article: Using Free Public NTRIP Services — Pros, Cons, and How to Access Them