Compliance of low-cost, single-frequency GNSS receivers to standards consistent with ISO for control surveying

The emergence of single-frequency, navigation-type Global Navigation Satellite System receivers capable to provide carrier phase data [the so-called high sensitivity (HS) carrier phase positioning] has been steadily growing over the recent years. The main purpose of this study is to metrologically evaluate two low-cost, HS receivers, namely the u-blox LEA-6T and NEO-7P, in control surveying specifications. The evaluation was carried out within a published framework of standards and associated guidelines that are consistent with standards from the International Standards Organisation. The survey results were obtained from sufficient independent testing and proof and achieved an accuracy classification of ‘1 cm’ at 95% confidence level. This indicates that the particular type of receiver used with geodetic antennas can provide positioning results for general purpose control surveying applications that are comparable to using geodetic receivers and with a significantly lower cost.