Setting up a new GNSS receiver is easier when you follow a consistent workflow from the beginning. The Spectra Geospatial SP100 is a GNSS receiver designed for surveying applications, with IMU-based tilt compensation, triple-frequency GNSS support, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and compatibility with Spectra Geospatial Origin field software.

This guide walks through the main steps for getting an SP100 ready for field use, from installing the battery and powering on the receiver to connecting it with field software and configuring an RTK survey. Exact menus, connection methods, and available features can vary depending on the SP100 configuration, controller, software version, and correction source.

Step 1: Install the Battery and Power On

Before configuring the receiver, make sure the battery is properly installed and the unit has sufficient power for the setup process.

• Install the battery. Open the battery compartment and install the battery according to the SP100 Quick Start Guide. Make sure it is seated securely before closing the compartment.

• Secure the battery compartment. Confirm that the battery door is properly closed before operating the receiver.

• Power on the receiver. Press the power button and allow the receiver to complete its startup sequence.

• Check the receiver indicators. Use the status LEDs and, when connected, the field software to confirm that the receiver is operating normally.

Before a field survey, make sure the battery has enough charge for the planned work. If you are using external power or accessories, confirm that all connections are secure and compatible with the receiver.

Step 2: Establish a Connection to the Receiver

The SP100 provides Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for communication with compatible controllers and devices.

The exact connection procedure depends on the controller and software you are using.

• Turn on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth on the controller if required by your selected connection method.

• Enable the appropriate connection on the SP100 based on the receiver's current configuration and the user documentation.

• Select the SP100 from the available devices or networks on the controller.

• Complete any required authentication or pairing steps.

• Confirm the connection before proceeding to the field software.

If you are using a web-based configuration interface, use the network information and login procedure provided in the current SP100 documentation rather than assuming a universal IP address or factory credential.

For a multi-receiver operation, identify each receiver carefully before connecting to avoid configuring the wrong unit.

Step 3: Check Firmware and Software

Before taking the receiver into the field, check that the receiver and field software are running supported versions.

Spectra Geospatial provides firmware, product documentation, manuals, and software resources through its product and support pages.

A practical pre-job workflow is:

1. Check the SP100's current firmware version.

2. Check the version of your field software and controller software.

3. Review Spectra Geospatial's current support resources for applicable updates.

4. Install updates using the manufacturer's documented procedure.

5. Restart the receiver or controller if required.

6. Reconnect the receiver and confirm that communication still works.

Firmware and software updates may include bug fixes, feature improvements, and compatibility changes. Check the release information for the specific update rather than assuming that every release addresses the same performance issue.

If the receiver has been stored for an extended period, performing a software and firmware check before a major project is a sensible precaution.

Step 4: Connect the SP100 to Field Software

The SP100 is supported by Spectra Geospatial Origin GNSS and Origin Max. Spectra Geospatial's current supported-instrument information specifically lists the SP100 for these software packages.

To prepare the receiver for an RTK survey:

• Mount the receiver. Attach the SP100 to a compatible survey pole, tripod, or other appropriate mounting equipment.

• Attach required accessories. If your configuration uses a UHF radio, antenna, or other external equipment, install the appropriate accessories according to the equipment documentation.

• Open your field software. Launch Spectra Geospatial Origin or another application that officially supports the SP100.

• Create or open the project. Set the appropriate coordinate system, units, and other project parameters for the job.

• Connect to the SP100. Select the receiver from the available instruments and establish the connection using the supported communication method.

• Select the survey style. Configure the survey for the correction method you plan to use.

Origin GNSS supports survey styles and Base & Rover setup for GNSS workflows.

Configure the Correction Source

The correction source you choose depends on your equipment, location, available communications, and survey requirements.

Common options include:

• Network RTK: Receive corrections through an internet-based correction service.

• Base-and-rover RTK: Use a base receiver to provide corrections to a rover.

• Radio RTK: Use a compatible radio configuration where supported.

• Other supported correction services: Configure the correction source available for your region and equipment.

Spectra Geospatial also provides Origin tutorials covering RTK Network survey setup and other survey workflows.

Make sure the selected correction source, survey style, coordinate system, and geoid model are appropriate for the project before collecting points.

Step 5: Configure Tilt Compensation and Survey Settings

One of the SP100's key features is IMU-based tilt compensation. Spectra Geospatial states that the SP100 can measure points while the survey rod is tilted, eliminating the need to level the antenna for supported measurement workflows.

Before using tilt-based measurements:

• Follow the software's instructions for calibration or initialization when required.

• Confirm that the receiver is connected correctly.

• Verify the pole height and measurement method.

• Check that the survey style uses the intended tilt workflow.

• Follow your organization's required accuracy and quality-control procedures.

Spectra Geospatial Origin provides an IMU calibration workflow for supported receivers, including the SP100. The Origin documentation explains that IMU calibration can be used when the pole requires a bias adjustment or when the physical vial or pole condition makes vial-based calibration less suitable.

Tilt compensation can make field measurements more flexible, but it does not replace proper survey procedures. Confirm that measurements meet the required tolerance before accepting important points.

Step 6: Verify the Setup Before Collecting Data

Before starting the actual survey, perform a quick field check.

Verify:

• The SP100 is securely mounted.

• The controller is communicating with the receiver.

• The receiver has sufficient battery power.

• Satellite tracking is available.

• The selected correction source is connected.

• The receiver has obtained the expected RTK status or fix.

• The coordinate system and geoid settings are correct.

• The antenna or radio equipment is securely connected when applicable.

• The pole height and measurement settings are correct.

• The reported accuracy meets the project's requirements.

For important survey work, collect a check measurement or occupy a known point when appropriate. This provides an additional opportunity to identify an incorrect coordinate system, correction source, antenna height, or other setup issue before collecting a large amount of data.

SP100 Setup Checklist

Common SP100 Setup Mistakes to Avoid

A few setup issues can create unnecessary problems in the field:

• Using the wrong coordinate system or geoid model. These errors may not be obvious until positions or elevations are compared with known data.

• Starting work without checking the correction source. A receiver can be connected to the controller without necessarily receiving the RTK corrections required for the intended survey.

• Entering the wrong antenna or pole height. A measurement can appear to have a good GNSS solution while still producing an incorrect elevation if the height is wrong.

• Skipping software and firmware checks. Compatibility problems can sometimes be avoided by confirming supported versions before a project begins.

• Failing to verify the RTK solution. Do not assume that a receiver is ready to collect high-accuracy points simply because it is connected.

• Ignoring accessories and radio connections. A loose or incorrectly configured antenna or radio connection can interrupt correction data in applicable RTK configurations.

• Relying on tilt compensation without following the required workflow. The feature improves flexibility, but survey procedures and accuracy checks still matter.

Ready to Set Up Your Spectra Geospatial SP100?

Setting up the Spectra Geospatial SP100 involves powering the receiver, connecting it to the controller, checking software versions, and configuring the appropriate survey and correction settings. Before collecting points, verify the coordinate system, geoid model, correction source, antenna or pole height, connection, and reported accuracy. For IMU-based tilt compensation, follow the required calibration and measurement procedures.

Need help choosing the right SP100 configuration for your correction method, radio requirements, software, and field workflow? Contact Titan Tools Direct for guidance, or refer to Spectra Geospatial’s official documentation for additional setup information.

Questions?

Need help setting up your Spectra Geospatial SP100 GNSS receiver or choosing the right configuration?

Call us 540-600-4204

Email: Support@TitanToolsDirect.Com

Our knowledgeable team can assist with SP100 setup, compatibility, accessories, and technical questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy a Spectra Geospatial SP100 GNSS receiver?

You can buy the Spectra Geospatial SP100 GNSS receiver from Titan Tools Direct, with configurations and accessories for surveying and RTK positioning workflows.

Do I need a computer to set up the SP100?

Not necessarily. The SP100 can connect to supported controllers and field software through its available communication options. The exact setup depends on your receiver configuration and controller. Spectra Geospatial Origin supports the SP100 through Origin GNSS and Origin Max.

What should I check before using a new SP100 on a job?

Check the receiver's firmware, field software version, battery level, receiver-to-controller connection, coordinate system, geoid model, correction source, and antenna or pole-height settings. You should also verify that the receiver is producing the expected positioning status and accuracy before collecting project data.

Can the SP100 be used for base-and-rover RTK surveys?

Yes. Spectra Geospatial lists Base and Rover configurations for the SP100, and Origin GNSS and Origin Max support Base & Rover setup in their GNSS survey workflows. The exact equipment and configuration required depend on the SP100 model and radio or correction options selected.

Does the SP100 support tilt compensation?

Yes. The SP100 features IMU-based tilt compensation. Spectra Geospatial's Origin documentation specifically identifies the SP100 as an IMU tilt-compensation receiver and describes workflows for measuring points while the survey rod is tilted.

Is Spectra Geospatial Origin compatible with the SP100?

Yes. Spectra Geospatial lists the SP100 as a supported instrument for Origin GNSS and Origin Max.

How often should I check for firmware updates?

Check Spectra Geospatial's current support resources before major projects and periodically during the life of the equipment. Rather than assuming that every update is necessary, review the applicable release information and compatibility requirements for your receiver, controller, and field software. Spectra Geospatial provides firmware and product-support resources through its website.

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