When performing field surveys with APEKS GNSS receivers, the Built-in Radio mode is the most reliable method for real-time data transmission between the Base and Rover. However, factors such as signal interference, mismatched settings, or hardware connection issues often lead to radio mode failures and interrupt your workflow.

Below is a detailed analysis of three core issues and a step-by-step troubleshooting guide to help you stay productive.

I. Unable to Establish Connection (Base ↔ Rover)

Common Symptoms:

1.The Rover cannot find the Base signal.

2. The status bar shows “AUTONOMOUS”.

3.The RTK status remains as “Single”.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Verify Working Modes: Ensure the Base is set to Base mode and the Rover is set to Rover mode.
• Match Frequency and Protocol: The transmission frequency (MHz) and protocol must be identical on both units.

Note: Different brands use different antenna frequencies. Ensure you are using the correct antenna; APEKS GNSS frequency is 450–470 MHz.

• Verify that the internal radio is turned on: Once activated, the ApekSurv software should display “Base” at the top.

Avoid Mode Errors: Ensure you haven’t accidentally selected “External Radio” or “Network” mode.

II. can connect, but the distance is short (the communication range is insufficient).

Common Symptoms:

1.The theoretical range of 5–15 km drops significantly to only 300–500 m

2.The link disconnects with even minor obstructions.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Check Transmission Power: Ensure the power isn’t set to “Low.” Adjust it to the maximum power supported by the device.
• Check the Antenna: Ensure you are using a dedicated Radio Antenna, not a GNSS antenna.
• Check if the antenna interface is loose or damaged
• Check the installation location: Check if the Base is set too low or obstructed by buildings or metal structures.
• check environmental Interference: Avoid setting up the Base near high-voltage lines, communication towers, or dense urban areas.

III. Unstable Data Reception / Frequent RTK Drops

Common Symptoms:

1.RTK status switch rapidly between Fix → Float → Single.

2.High latency or jumping coordinates.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Check Differential Output: Confirm the Base is correctly outputting RTCM 3.2.
• Check GNSS Satellite Status: Confirm the Base is active and ApekSurv shows a sufficient number of satellites (≥15，PDOP is corrcet) .
• Check for radio interference: Attempt to change the radio channel and frequency to avoid local interference.

IV. Signal Present but Unable to Achieve “Fix”

Common Symptoms:

1.The status shows “Float” and remains on “Float” for an extended period.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Check the number of satellites: the number of satellites is over than 18, it can be fixed.
• Check for radio interference: Try changing the frequency or channel to bypass interference.

V. No Signal from Internal Radio

Common Symptoms:

1. When configuring a base station, the ApekSurv software does not show “Base”.

2.The Base differential indicator light flashes abnormally.

Troubleshooting Steps:

• Antenna and Port: Inspect the antenna and the interface for physical damage.
• Firmware Update: Ensure your firmware is the latest version and that the update process was completed .
• Hardware Self-Test: Switching to external radio station test. If the external radio works correctly, there may be a hardware issue with the internal radio module.

Problem Type	Key reason	Standard Inspection Points
Built-in radio cannot connect (base ↔rover)	Radio link not established	①Base station is set to Base, and rover station is set to Rover. ② The frequency and protocol must be consistent (APEKS: 450–470 MHz). ③ Different brands require the installation of radio antennas on the corresponding frequency bands. ④ The built-in radio is confirmed to be open, but not choose External Radio / Network. ⑤ After the base station is turned on, ApekSurv show “Base” at the top.
can connect, but the communication distance is short.	Launch conditions or environment are limited	①Adjust the transmit power to the maximum supported by the device. ②Use dedicated radio antenna (not a GNSS antenna). ③Check if the antenna connector is loose or damaged. ④Increase the height of the base station to avoid obstruction by buildings or metal objects. ⑤Stay away from high-voltage lines, communication towers, or dense urban areas.
Unstable Data Reception / Frequent RTK Drops	abnormal radio quality or base station status	①The base is correctly outputting RTCM 3.2. ②The base station is active; ApekSurv displays “Base”. ③Number of satellites ≥15, PDOP reasonable ④Try changing the radio channel and frequency.
The radio has a signal but cannot be fixed.	Satellite conditions or interference	①Number of satellites >18 ②Change radio channels and frequencies to avoid interference.
Built-in radio has no signal at all	Antenna, firmware, or hardware abnormal	①Check the radio antenna and interface for damage. ②Confirm that the firmware is the latest version and the upgrade is complete. ③Switching to external radio station test. Determining if it is a built-in radio module problem

If problems persist, please feel free to contact us for further assistance.

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Company Name: Shanghai Apekstool (APEKS)
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Country: China
Website: https://www.apeksgnss.com/