This guide explains how to use the Emlid Reach RX with the DroneDeploy Ground app’s Mobile 3D Scan capture mode to achieve centimeter-level positioning for georeferenced ground scans. This workflow is currently in beta and focuses on a simple, reliable setup in the field for high-accuracy mobile scanning.
What you’ll need
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Mobile device: iPhone Pro/Pro Max or iPad Pro (2020 or newer) with LiDAR. A device from our Recommended and Supported Devices list here.
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RTK rover: Emlid Reach RX (only model supported in this beta).
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Mounting: Emlid Scanning Handle + SP Connect mount (phone case or iPad adhesive).
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Network: Internet connectivity on the device (the app connects to DroneDeploy’s RTK network automatically).
Before you begin (important notes)
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The app connects to DroneDeploy’s RTK network automatically; no custom NTRIP credentials are needed in this beta.
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Only the Emlid Reach RX is supported in this phase; support for additional receivers (e.g., RX2, Trimble DA2) is planned.
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Expect a small, consistent offset on some devices due to the camera-to-sensor baseline (improvements are in progress).
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RTK-enabled scans are processed as georeferenced maps and appear under the project’s Maps dropdown.
Step-by-step: Connect Reach RX to Ground Mobile 3D Scan
- Power on your Reach RX 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 from the list.
- The light ring on the RX will flash, indicating it’s connected. Wait for a green “RTK Fixed” indicator before scanning or for the light on the RX 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 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 RX. 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
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Scans captured in RTK-connected mode are automatically georeferenced.
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Find them in your project under the Maps dropdown (not as individual vertical scan pins).
Known limitations (beta)
| 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 is currently supported. | Other receivers won’t connect. | RX2 and 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
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Do I need my own NTRIP credentials?
No. In this beta, the app connects to DroneDeploy’s RTK network automatically. -
Which Emlid devices are supported?
Emlid Reach RX only (initial beta). Future updates aim to include RX2 and Trimble DA2. -
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.”