Hello there,
The statement you're referring to regarding the DJI M3E platform—specifically that "GLONASS is supported only when the RTK module is enabled"—refers to the types of satellite navigation systems the drone can utilize for positioning, and under what conditions.
GPS (Global Positioning System), Galileo, BeiDou, and GLONASS are all global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) that provide geolocation and time information to a GNSS receiver anywhere on or near the Earth where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more satellites. The availability of multiple systems (like GPS, Galileo, BeiDou, and GLONASS) enhances the accuracy, reliability, and coverage of positioning information.
The DJI M3E's ability to use GLONASS, however, is specifically tied to the activation of its RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) module. RTK is a technology that enhances the precision of position data derived from satellite-based positioning systems. It uses measurements of the phase of the signal's carrier wave, rather than the information content of the signal, and relies on a single reference station to provide real-time corrections, providing up to centimeter-level accuracy.
So, when the statement says "GLONASS is supported only when the RTK module is enabled," it means that the drone can only utilize the GLONASS satellites for improved positioning accuracy if the RTK module is active. Without the RTK module being enabled, the drone will not use GLONASS satellites for positioning and will rely on the other available systems (GPS, Galileo, and BeiDou) for its navigation.
This feature is particularly useful in applications requiring high precision, such as mapping, surveying, or any operation where precise positioning is critical. Enabling RTK and, by extension, GLONASS support ensures your drone has the best possible access to satellite signals, improving its positional accuracy and reliability, especially in challenging environments.
I hope this clarifies your question!
Roger - Owner of 2D DUMMIES™
