AZGPS FAQ Directory
GNSS Networks
GNSS Networks are revolutionizing how surveyors in Arizona and Southern California achieve accuracy, reliability, and speed in the field. By delivering Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) corrections through an internet-connected network of reference stations, they remove the need for on-site base setups — saving time, reducing complexity, and ensuring data consistency across every project.
The AZGPS GNSS Network provides continuous, secure correction coverage across Central and Southern Arizona and into Southern California. It’s a fully maintained CORS (Continuously Operating Reference Station) system designed to support surveyors, engineers, and GIS professionals who demand precise, reliable data anywhere they work.
🛰️ 1. What GNSS Networks Do
GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) networks use signals from GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou satellites. These signals are monitored by multiple fixed base stations, which send correction data to a central server. Surveyors connect their rovers or data collectors via NTRIP to receive real-time, centimeter-level corrections directly in the field.
⚖️ 2. GNSS Networks vs. Traditional Base–Rover RTK
Traditional RTK requires setting up your own base station on a known point, broadcasting corrections to your rover via UHF radio or Bluetooth.
While effective for small sites, it introduces limits — including range constraints, radio interference, and the need to reoccupy control points daily.
GNSS Network RTK eliminates those issues by providing statewide coverage with multi-base correction geometry.
This means:
- ✅ No need to set up or maintain your own base each day
- ✅ Instant corrections from the nearest reference stations
- ✅ Accuracy maintained over long distances
- ✅ Less downtime and fewer errors from signal dropouts
- ✅ Consistent results across multiple crews and regions
In short — network RTK provides the same precision as local base setups, but with more reliability, flexibility, and time savings.
📶 3. Broad Equipment Compatibility
The AZGPS GNSS Network supports all major GNSS equipment brands including Trimble, Leica, Topcon, Spectra Precision, Carlson, Hemisphere, and Emlid. If your device supports NTRIP or RTCM corrections, it can connect directly — no proprietary hardware or software required.
🌐 4. Expanding Coverage Across the Southwest
AZGPS operates an expanding network of base stations providing dense RTK coverage across Arizona and Southern California. The network’s local redundancy ensures consistent performance, even in remote or high-interference environments — ideal for boundary, construction, GIS, and infrastructure projects.
⚙️ 5. Why GNSS Networks Matter in 2025
As surveying continues to evolve, GNSS networks form the backbone of modern geospatial operations. They support not only traditional land surveys, but also UAV mapping, precision agriculture, smart construction, and autonomous equipment. To dive deeper, read our full article: GNSS Networks in 2025: The Backbone of Modern Surveying.
💼 6. Try the AZGPS GNSS Network — Free for 7 Days
Surveyors and engineers can now test the AZGPS GNSS Network at no cost with our 7-day Free Trial.
Experience the reliability, speed, and compatibility of our RTK corrections before subscribing.
Learn more or start your trial today on our
AZGPS GNSS Network Subscription Page.
In Summary
GNSS Networks represent the next generation of RTK positioning. With broad coverage, brand-agnostic compatibility, and 24/7 reliability, the AZGPS GNSS Network offers surveyors and engineers across Arizona and Southern California a smarter, faster, and more dependable way to work.
Learn more about network RTK technology in our detailed article here, or request your 7-Day Free Trial now at azgps.org/azgps-gnss-network-subscription/. You can also reach us directly through our Contact Form.
Land Surveying
Land surveying is the science, art, and legal process of measuring and mapping the Earth’s surface to determine property boundaries, land features, and elevations.
Surveyors use advanced instruments like GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems), total stations, and 3D scanners to collect precise geographic data for construction, engineering, and property ownership.
In Arizona, all official boundary or design surveys must be performed or supervised by a Registered Land Surveyor (RLS) licensed by the Arizona State Board of Technical Registration.
📍 1. The Purpose of Land Surveying
Land surveying defines where property boundaries begin and end. It ensures structures, utilities, and improvements are placed accurately and legally on the ground.
Surveying data also forms the foundation for mapping, engineering, and infrastructure development across Arizona.
🧭 2. Common Types of Surveys
Each survey type serves a different purpose:
- Boundary Surveys – Define property lines and corners.
- Topographic Surveys – Map elevation, contours, and site features.
- ALTA/NSPS Surveys – Meet national standards for real estate and title insurance (NSPS Standards).
- Construction Staking – Mark design locations for builders and contractors.
- Subdivision & Platting – Create or modify property parcels per Arizona Administrative Code R4-30.
- FEMA Elevation Certificates – Document elevation data for flood insurance or Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) requests.
⚙️ 3. Modern Technology in Surveying
Today’s Arizona surveyors use GNSS Network RTK, aerial drones, LiDAR, and 3D modeling software to achieve centimeter-level accuracy.
Learn more about GNSS technology from the National Geodetic Survey (NOAA NGS).
⚖️ 4. Legal and Professional Standards
Surveying work must comply with Arizona’s Administrative Code R4-30-301 through R4-30-312, which define standards of practice, accuracy, and documentation for Registered Land Surveyors.
Survey maps are legal records that may be filed with your County Recorder’s Office.
In Summary
Land surveying establishes the foundation for every property boundary, construction project, and infrastructure plan in Arizona.
A Registered Land Surveyor (RLS) ensures your site data is accurate, legally defensible, and compliant with state requirements.
Not sure which survey type you need? AZGPS offers free online estimates at
azgps.org/get-a-quote — simply describe your project and we’ll help you choose the right service.
If you’re unsure or prefer to speak directly, you can also reach out anytime using our
Contact Form.