Version 6 · Currentdocs/hardware/antenna-mounting

Antenna Mounting

Proper antenna installation is critical for achieving optimal RTK performance. The GNSS antenna is the foundation of your base station's accuracy.

Mounting Requirements

The antenna must be mounted such that it meets ALL of the following criteria:

Requirement	Specification
Stability	Unable to move, even in heavy winds
Sky View	Clear, unobstructed view of the sky in all directions
Clearance	2 feet or more above any other structures within 25 feet
EMI	Clear of any electromagnetic interference sources
Vibration	Clear of harmonic noise or vibration sources (e.g., HVAC systems)
Level	Reasonably plumb (vertical)
Orientation	Arrow on antenna bottom oriented north

[Arrow Orientation]

The orientation arrow is located on the bottom of the antenna, opposite the cable connector. Point this arrow toward true north.

Sky View Requirements

Ideal Installation

                    Sky View Cone
                        │
                       /│\
                      / │ \
                     /  │  \  10° above horizon
                    /   │   \    minimum
                   /    │    \
──────────────────/─────●─────\──────────────────
                       ANT

Full 360° view of the sky
10° elevation mask minimum (higher is better)
No obstructions from buildings, trees, or structures

Common Obstructions to Avoid

Obstruction	Problem	Solution
Buildings	Block satellites, cause multipath	Mount higher or relocate
Trees	Signal attenuation, especially when wet	Clear of canopy
Metal structures	Multipath reflections	Distance of 2x structure height
Power lines	EMI interference	Minimum 50 feet away
HVAC units	Vibration, EMI	Minimum 25 feet away

Mount Types

Pole Mount (Recommended for CORS)

Best for permanent installations with maximum sky view.

Requirements:

Schedule 40 or 80 steel pipe (1.5" to 2" diameter)
Minimum 10 feet above roofline
Guyed or bracketed for wind stability
Lightning protection recommended

Tripod Mount (Mobile Base)

Standard survey tripod with 5/8"-11 threaded adapter.

Requirements:

Stable, level ground
Tripod legs fully extended and locked
Weighted or staked in windy conditions

Roof Mount

For installations where pole mounting isn't feasible.

Requirements:

Non-penetrating roof mount OR properly sealed penetration
Minimum 2 feet above roof surface
Away from HVAC, vents, and elevator equipment

Installation Best Practices

1. Site Survey

Before installation:

Identify potential obstructions at all elevations
Check for EMI sources (transformers, radio towers)
Verify cellular/internet connectivity
Plan cable routing

2. Antenna Height Measurement

Accurate antenna height is essential:

Measure from ground mark to Antenna Reference Point (ARP)
ARP is typically the bottom of the antenna mount
Check antenna specifications for exact ARP location
Record measurement to nearest millimeter

3. Cable Management

Use UV-resistant cable ties
Provide drip loops before enclosure entry
Avoid sharp bends in coax cable
Protect connectors from moisture

4. Grounding

For permanent installations:

Ground antenna mount to building ground
Use lightning arrestor on coax cable
Follow local electrical codes

Troubleshooting Poor Performance

Low Satellite Count

Cause	Solution
Obstructions	Relocate or raise antenna
Damaged cable	Replace coax cable
Connector issue	Check and reseat connections

High Position Noise

Cause	Solution
Multipath	Move away from reflective surfaces
Antenna movement	Secure mount, check for vibration
EMI interference	Identify and eliminate source

Intermittent Tracking

Cause	Solution
Loose connection	Tighten all connectors
Cable damage	Inspect and replace if needed
Antenna issue	Test with known-good antenna

Professional Installation Support

Need help with your installation? Contact Discovery Management Group for:

Site survey assistance
Installation guidance
Remote troubleshooting