GNSS Receivers and Positioning Systems for Surveying
Trimble R780 GNSS System
The Trimble R780 GNSS receiver is a highly accurate GNSS system built to handle the toughest survey environments.
Trimble R12 GNSS System
Accurate – Reliable – Productive. More than 30% better performance in challenging environments with ground-breaking signal management and rugged durability.
Trimble R750 Modular GNSS Receiver
Modern, scalable, connected GNSS
The Trimble® R750 GNSS receiver incorporates the latest industry-leading positioning technology from Trimble.
Trimble R980 GNSS System
Dependable and versatile GNSS system tailored to enhance survey productivity.
SP60 L1/L2 GNSS Single Receiver Kit with Charger
The Spectra Geospatial SP60 GNSS receiver delivers high accuracy for GIS and RTK applications with Z-Blade technology, RTX support, and scalable configurations.
Geode GNS3H HAS Multi-Frequency Receiver
A compact, ultra-rugged GNSS receiver delivering submeter to 20 cm accuracy with L1, L2, L5, and Galileo HAS support for flexible field data collection.
Geode GNS3H Upgradeable Receiver
A compact, rugged single-frequency GNSS receiver delivering real-time submeter accuracy, with flexible upgrade paths to multi-frequency and Galileo HAS corrections, plus open compatibility with Android, iOS, and Windows applications.
Juniper Systems Geode GNS3M Multi-Frequency Receiver
Multi-frequency (L1, L2, L5), submeter to sub-foot accuracy depending on GNSS corrections. Easily collect real-time GNSS data into any Android, iOS or Windows
Juniper Systems Geode GNS3M
Single frequency GNSS receiver, submeter accuracy, upgradeable to multi-frequency. Easily collect real-time GNSS data into any Android, iOS or Windows application
Don't see what you need?
Click here to let us know and we'll help you find what you're looking for.What is a GNSS Receiver?
Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) receivers and positioning systems are used to process spatial information received from satellites. These tools use the gathered information to calculate their position on Earth. This technology was originally developed for military use, but it's now used in everyday life, from smartphones and car navigation to ridesharing and package tracking. The types of GNSS receivers are single-frequency receivers, dual-frequency receivers, and multi-frequency receivers.
Duncan-Parnell offers GNSS receivers that give you precise positioning data, whether you're looking for the latest industry-leading positioning technology or a compact, ultra-rugged GNSS receiver for flexible field data collection. We offer receivers and positioning systems for every professional application.
How to Choose a GNSS Receiver
When selecting a GNSS receiver, consider these five core functions to improve the efficiency of your GIS projects and fieldwork.
1. Considering a Traditional Base/Rover RTK or Network RTK
Start by deciding between a traditional base/rover RTK and Network RTK. A base/rover RTK system relies on an on-site physical receiver on a tripod to broadcast corrections via radio to a mobile rover. Network RTK (NTRIP) uses a cellular connection to pull correction data from a regional network of reference stations.
Choose a traditional base/rover RTK setup if you work in remote, off-grid locations or you need the highest level of local vertical precision. Network RTK is the best option if you work in urban environments with strong cell service and want to maximize efficiency by eliminating setup time.
2. Choosing Handheld vs. Pole-Mounted GNSS Receivers to Optimize Workflow
The choice between handheld and pole-mounted GNSS receivers depends on the accuracy required for your application. Handheld GNSS receivers are compact devices ideal for applications that require submeter accuracy. Pole-mounted GNSS receivers should be used when centimeter accuracy is required.
3. GNSS Receiver Storage Capacity
Trimble receivers offer ample onboard memory for any survey job. Premium models like the Trimble R780 include 9 GB of internal memory. The Trimble R750 provides 9.25 GB, and the Trimble R12i includes 6 GB — more than enough to log raw GNSS observations and field data across extended field sessions without offloading. When paired with a Trimble data collector, total available storage increases further to support even the most data-intensive projects.
Protecting your data with GNSS receiver storage capacity involves maximizing internal logging and using expandable memory like USB and SD cards to safeguard raw and processed positioning records. Robust storage enables hardware-level cryptographic encryption, routine backups, and local data protection to prevent unauthorized access, tampering, or loss.
4. GNSS Receiver Communication and Field-to-Office Data Flow
GNSS receivers communicate positioning data to a paired data collector, such as the Trimble TSC710 or TSC510, via Bluetooth, a standard in modern field workflows. Wired connections are also supported for modular receiver setups or in environments where wireless communication isn't permitted. From the data collector, project data syncs to Trimble Connect, Trimble's cloud-based common data environment. This enables real-time collaboration between the field and the office. Teams can access, review and share field data without manual file transfers, keeping projects moving efficiently from collection to completion.
GNSS Receiver and Positioning Systems FAQs
How Do RTK and Static Surveying Methods Differ, and Which GNSS Receivers Support Each?
Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) provides real-time centimeter accuracy for rapid data collection in the field. Static surveying uses longer observation sessions and post-processing to achieve the highest possible accuracy. All Trimble receivers support both methods, from premium systems like the Trimble R12 GNSS System, Trimble R780 GNSS System, and Trimble R750 Modular GNSS Receiver, to entry-level options like the Trimble R580 Centimeter Kit.
What Accuracy Can I Expect From Different GNSS Receiver Models?
The accuracy of GNSS receiver models varies. The entry-level Geode GNS3H Upgradeable Receiver delivers submeter accuracy. Midrange devices like Trimble R580 deliver centimeter accuracy. Premium models like the Trimble R12i LT GNSS System and the Trimble R780 GNSS System achieve 8mm horizontal/15mm vertical accuracy even in challenging environments, thanks to Trimble ProPoint and tilt compensation.
What Is Trimble ProPoint™ Technology, and How Does It Specifically Improve GNSS Performance?
Trimble ProPoint™ is an advanced GNSS engine that improves GNSS receiver performance in challenging conditions. It tracks all constellations and frequencies, mitigating errors and extracting data from weaker signals. This offers up to 30% better performance in challenging environments.
High-Accuracy GNSS Positioning Without a Traditional Hardware Investment
Duncan-Parnell also offers Trimble Catalyst, an innovative software-defined GNSS positioning system. This flexible solution enables high-accuracy GNSS data collection on your compatible Android device via a convenient subscription model. Trimble Catalyst is ideal for professionals who want agility and cost-effective precision.