This guide explains how to use the Emlid Reach RX/RX2 with the DroneDeploy Ground app’s Mobile 3D Scan capture mode to achieve centimeter-level positioning for georeferenced ground scans. This workflow focuses on a simple, reliable setup in the field for high-accuracy mobile scanning.
What you’ll need
- Mobile device: iPhone Pro/Pro Max or iPad Pro (2020 or newer) with LiDAR. A device from our Recommended and Supported Devices list here.
- RTK rover: Emlid Reach RX or RX2
- Mounting: Emlid Scanning Handle + SP Connect mount (phone case or iPad adhesive).
- Network: Internet connectivity on the device (the app connects to DroneDeploy’s RTK network automatically).
Before you begin (important notes)
- The app connects to DroneDeploy’s RTK network automatically; no custom NTRIP credentials needed.
- Only the Emlid Reach RX and RX2 is supported; support for additional receivers (e.g., Trimble DA2) is planned.
- Expect a small, consistent offset on some devices due to the camera-to-sensor baseline (improvements are in progress).
- RTK-enabled scans are processed as georeferenced maps and appear under the project’s Maps dropdown.
Step-by-step: Connect Reach RX/RX2 to Ground Mobile 3D Scan
- Power on your Reach RX/RX2 receiver.
- In the DroneDeploy Ground app, navigate to your project’s Exterior and select Scan mode.
- Tap the connection bar and pick Emlid Reach RX/RX2 from the list.
- The light ring on the Reach will flash, indicating it’s connected. Wait for a green “RTK Fixed” indicator before scanning or for the light on the Reach to turn green. (If you see white or yellow, move to open sky and allow up to 1 minute for full correction.)
This is the pairing screen you’ll see when linking Emlid RX/RX2 to DroneDeploy. Make sure the status bar turns green before proceeding
After connecting, monitor this status in-app. Start scanning once you see status: RTK Fixed solution (green) or green lights on the Reach. You’ll see live RTK status while you’re scanning
Our app uses DroneDeploy’s RTK network; you do not need your own NTRIP credentials.
Field best practices for accurate scans
Before scan: Plan your path for full site coverage. During scan:
- Move at a steady pace; keep the device’s orientation consistent.
- Walk in straight lines or gentle curves - avoid sudden turns or spins.
- Cover textureless or challenging surfaces from multiple directions.
- Close the loop when possible, finishing near your starting location with slight overlap.
Pro tip: Place 1 - 2 control points (survey-grade) on site to validate results.
Processing and where to find results
- Scans captured in RTK-connected mode are automatically georeferenced.
- Find them in your project under the Maps dropdown (not as individual vertical scan pins).
Known limitations
| Issue | Description | Impact | Resolution Status |
| Camera-to-Sensor Offset | The offset between the iOS camera lens and the Emlid RX sensor is not yet modeled. | Will result in a few cm geolocation shift. | Auto offset for known devices and Manual offset entry coming soon. |
| Map Priority | RTK maps processed after drone orthos may display as the default map. | May cause confusion with orthos maps. | Create a new project for testing. Work is planned to prevent 3D scan maps from being the default |
| Limited RTK Device Support | Only Emlid Reach RX and RX2 is currently supported. | Other receivers won’t connect. | Trimble DA2 support coming. |
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Resolution |
| Cannot connect to Emlid RX | Bluetooth conflict or low battery | Restart device; ensure no other app is paired |
| RTK stuck on SINGLE or FLOAT | Poor satellite geometry or interference | Move to open sky; wait 30–60 seconds |
| Scan not uploading | Weak WiFi or large file | Reconnect to stable network |
| Offset in model | Camera-to-sensor baseline not corrected | Note direction for feedback submission |
FAQs
- Do I need my own NTRIP credentials?
No. The app connects to DroneDeploy’s RTK network automatically. - Where do my RTK scans appear?
Under the project’s Maps dropdown on the DroneDeploy website after processing. - Can I still use GCPs?
Yes. For survey-grade workflows or validation, you can survey GCPs with Emlid RS2+/RS3 using NTRIP in the Emlid Flow app and upload to DroneDeploy’s Smart Uploader. See “Collecting Ground Control Points with the Emlid.”
Related resources
v2.2