Emlid Reach M2

The Reach M2 from Emlid is a multi-band RTK and PPK module for mapping and navigation with medium-class drones. It records raw data in the unit itself and brings Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

The Reach M2 receives GPS, QZSS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo in two bands each (L1C/A and L2C, L1OF and L2OF, B1I and B2I, E1-B/C and E5b). Two bands allow the ionosphere to be removed. Emlid states two accuracies: kinematic, that is in motion, 7 mm + 1 ppm horizontally, and static, that is over a longer measurement on one point, 4 mm + 0.5 ppm. The ppm part grows with the distance from the base, 1 ppm equalling 1 mm per kilometre. The output rate is 10 Hz. Connection is through USB, UART and an event input that sets time marks, for example for camera triggers; Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are available wirelessly. The module measures 56.4 x 45.3 x 14.6 mm and weighs 35 g.

The strength for mapping flights is PPK: the recorded raw data are combined after the flight with base data from the same period, every image is assigned a position, and the number of ground control points can be reduced; check points remain useful for verification. In real-time operation the corrections come from your own base or an NTRIP service. The EU classes apply to the aircraft: from C1 upward geo-awareness and remote ID are mandatory, both resting on the GNSS position.

For selection it matters whether the camera supplies a trigger signal that the event input can accept. Raw data at 10 Hz grow with flight time, so memory is checked before every flight. The antenna shapes the quality of the record: clear view, ground plane and distance from transmitters. Antenna and event cables are the wear parts, and the module firmware belongs to upkeep.