How to Process Static GNSS Data for Post-Processing (PPK)
Post-Processing Kinematic (PPK) is a powerful GNSS method that lets you collect field data and correct it later using base station data. It’s perfect when real-time RTK isn’t available or stable — especially in remote areas.
This article walks you through the full workflow for static data collection and PPK correction using tools like Emlid Studio, RTKLib, or Leica Infinity.
📦 What You Need
- 🛰️ GNSS receiver (that logs RINEX or proprietary raw data)
- 📁 RINEX files from base station (can be from a CORS or your own base)
- 💻 Software for PPK (Emlid Studio, RTKLib, etc.)
📍 Step 1: Collect Static GNSS Data
- Place your GNSS receiver on a fixed point
- Set to log raw data (RINEX or UBX) for 10–60 minutes depending on baseline distance
- Ensure your antenna height is measured precisely
- Record the start and stop time
Tip: Log longer if your base station is far (10+ km) or if sky visibility is limited.
🔄 Step 2: Get Base RINEX Data
You’ll need base station data that covers the same time window. You can get this from:
- ✔️ A known CORS station (government or online services like AUSPOS or IBGE)
- ✔️ Your own base receiver (if you logged simultaneously)
Download the base RINEX and note the antenna height and coordinates.
⚙️ Step 3: Process in PPK Software
Example: Using Emlid Studio
- Open Emlid Studio
- Select “Process static logs”
- Load rover RINEX file
- Load base RINEX and enter base coordinates
- Choose output format (CSV, POS, DXF)
- Click “Process”
You’ll get precise coordinates for your rover point (centimeter-level accuracy).
Other Software Options:
- RTKLib: Open-source and versatile but has a steeper learning curve
- Leica Infinity: Used with Leica GS receivers, integrates network and local base options
- Trimble Business Center: For Trimble GNSS post-processing and geodetic transformation
📈 Step 4: Export and Use Your Corrected Coordinates
Once processed, you can export the corrected point into:
- 📊 CSV – for CAD or GIS use
- 📍 KML – for Google Earth
- 🗺️ DXF – for drafting software
💡 Pro Tips for Better PPK Results
- ⏱️ Always overlap observation time between base and rover
- 🌐 Use multi-constellation settings if available (GPS + GLONASS + Galileo)
- 📐 Double-check antenna height inputs — they affect final accuracy
- 🧭 Use known base coordinates to reduce georeferencing errors
🧠 When to Use PPK
- 🏞️ Remote locations with no RTK correction service
- 🕒 Long observation jobs where RTK isn’t stable
- 📏 Precise geodetic projects needing sub-centimeter accuracy
📥 Need Help With PPK Processing?
Send us your raw data files (RINEX or UBX), and we’ll process them and return corrected coordinates. We also provide PPK kits for low-cost surveying!
Next article: “Top Free Tools for GNSS Surveying You Should Know”