If you’re investing in high-precision GNSS equipment, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to use a network correction service like SmartNet or operate your own local RTK base station.
Both solutions can deliver centimetre-level accuracy, but they have different advantages depending on your project size, location, and workflow.
At Red Edge Resources, we support customers using both technologies and help them choose the best solution for their specific needs.
What Is SmartNet?
SmartNet is a network RTK correction service that uses a network of permanently installed reference stations to generate highly accurate correction data.
Instead of setting up your own base station, your GNSS rover connects to the SmartNet network over the internet and receives corrections in real time.
This eliminates the need to transport, power, and maintain a physical base station.
👉 Learn more about SmartNet subscriptions:
https://rededgeresources.com.au/smartnet-subscription/
What Is a Local RTK Base Station?
A local RTK base station is a GNSS receiver installed over a known control point that broadcasts correction data directly to one or more rovers.
Corrections are typically transmitted via:
- UHF radio
- Internet (NTRIP)
- Private IP networks
Many mining companies and major infrastructure projects operate dedicated base stations to maintain complete control over their positioning infrastructure.
👉 Explore our Stonex GNSS base stations and rovers:
https://rededgeresources.com.au/stonex-gps-gnss-survey-equipment/
Accuracy Comparison
When properly configured, both SmartNet and a local RTK base station can provide centimetre-level positioning accuracy.
For most surveying and construction applications, the difference in final accuracy is negligible.
The decision is usually based on convenience, coverage, reliability, and operational requirements rather than precision alone.
Advantages of SmartNet
No Hardware to Set Up
One of the biggest benefits of SmartNet is simplicity.
There’s no need to:
- Transport a base station
- Set up tripods
- Configure radios
- Monitor batteries
- Secure equipment against theft
Simply connect your rover and start working.
Faster Project Mobilisation
With SmartNet, surveyors can arrive on site and begin work almost immediately without spending time establishing a base station.
This is especially valuable for short-duration projects or jobs spread across multiple locations.
Reduced Maintenance
Owning a base station means maintaining hardware, updating firmware, replacing batteries, and troubleshooting communications.
SmartNet removes much of this responsibility, allowing contractors to focus on productive work.
Excellent for Multiple Crews
If several survey teams are working across different areas with mobile coverage, SmartNet enables each rover to receive corrections independently without requiring additional base stations.
Advantages of a Local RTK Base Station
Independence from Mobile Coverage
Many remote Australian projects have limited or unreliable mobile data coverage.
A local RTK base station broadcasting over UHF radio can continue operating where internet-based services are unavailable.
This is particularly valuable in remote mining regions.
Complete Operational Control
With your own base station, you control:
- Equipment location
- Radio settings
- Communications infrastructure
- Data transmission
- Site configuration
For long-term projects, this level of control can be highly advantageous.
Suitable for Isolated Sites
Remote mines, quarries, and infrastructure projects often establish permanent site control networks using dedicated base stations.
These systems operate independently of public RTK networks and provide consistent corrections across the project.
No Ongoing Subscription Fees
After purchasing the hardware, local base stations generally do not require annual correction subscriptions.
For organisations running multiple rovers over many years, this can provide long-term cost benefits.
SmartNet vs Local Base Station Comparison
| Feature | SmartNet | Local RTK Base |
|---|---|---|
| Centimetre Accuracy | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Requires Internet | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not necessarily |
| Requires Base Hardware | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Fast Site Setup | ✅ Excellent | ⚠️ Moderate |
| Ideal for Short Jobs | ✅ Excellent | ⚠️ Good |
| Works Without Mobile Coverage | ❌ Limited | ✅ Excellent |
| Ongoing Subscription | ✅ Yes | ❌ Usually No |
| Full Infrastructure Control | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes |
| Easy Multi-Site Operation | ✅ Excellent | ⚠️ Requires Planning |
Which Is Better for Mining?
The answer depends on the operation.
For large remote mine sites, dedicated RTK base stations often provide greater independence and reliability, particularly where mobile coverage is limited.
However, exploration teams, consultants, and contractors moving between sites may benefit from the flexibility and simplicity of SmartNet.
Many mining organisations actually use both:
- Permanent local base stations on active sites
- SmartNet subscriptions for regional work and backup positioning
Which Is Better for Civil Construction?
For civil contractors working in metropolitan and regional areas with reliable mobile coverage, SmartNet is often the most convenient option.
Benefits include:
- No daily base setup
- Faster mobilisation
- Reduced equipment to transport
- Simplified workflows
For long-term projects or remote locations, a dedicated base station may still be the preferred solution.
Can You Use Both?
Absolutely.
Many contractors maintain a SmartNet subscription while also owning a local RTK base station.
This provides maximum flexibility:
- Use SmartNet for day-to-day work.
- Switch to the base station on remote projects or where mobile coverage is unavailable.
- Maintain redundancy in case one correction source becomes unavailable.
Choosing the Right GNSS Equipment
Whether you choose SmartNet or a local base station, high-quality GNSS hardware is essential.
Red Edge Resources supplies professional Stonex GNSS rovers and base stations designed for surveying, construction, mining, and machine control applications across Australia.
👉 View our Stonex GNSS solutions:
https://rededgeresources.com.au/stonex-gps-gnss-survey-equipment/
Why Choose Red Edge Resources?
At Red Edge Resources, we don’t believe there is a one-size-fits-all answer.
We help our customers assess their projects, operating environments, and budgets to determine whether SmartNet, a local RTK base station, or a combination of both will deliver the best results.
We supply and support:
- Stonex GNSS rovers
- Stonex RTK base stations
- SmartNet subscriptions
- Machine control systems
- Mining positioning solutions
- Surveying technology
- Installation, training, and technical support
👉 SmartNet Subscription:
https://rededgeresources.com.au/smartnet-subscription/
👉 Stonex GNSS Equipment:
https://rededgeresources.com.au/stonex-gps-gnss-survey-equipment/
👉 Machine Control Solutions:
https://rededgeresources.com.au/machine-control/
Final Verdict
For many Australian surveyors and contractors, SmartNet offers the easiest and fastest way to achieve RTK accuracy, particularly in areas with reliable mobile coverage.
However, local RTK base stations remain the preferred choice for remote mining operations, permanent project sites, and organisations requiring complete control over their GNSS infrastructure.
In many cases, the best solution is not choosing one over the other—but using both strategically to maximise reliability, flexibility, and productivity.
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