Help & Advice
Full Description
Phantom 4 RTK - Next Generation Accuracy
The ultimate mapping solution for enterprise.
The Phantom 4 RTK is a mapping drone capable of seriously accurate data collection.
It is compatible with DJI Terra - the new 3D mapping software from DJI.
Most people are already familiar with the Phantom range of drones. The low barrier to entry makes the Phantom 4 RTK version even more attractive than existing solutions.
There's also a lower price point, new dedicated app and existing ecosystem of accessories.
In addition - the Phantom 4 RTK supports DJI's Mobile SDK - meaning functions are open to further automation and customisation through a mobile device.
As a DJI Enterprise specialist, HELIGUY.com™ can help you understand how the Phantom 4 RTK can benefit your organisation and give you guidance on what kind of configuration you'll need for any given application. Enquire now.
Phantom 4 RTK Accuracy
The DJI Phantom 4 RTK can produce extremely accurate data.
This custom built quadcopter is crafted from the ground up with accuracy in mind.
This results in:
- 1cm+1ppm RTK Horizontal Positioning Accuracy
- 1.5cm+1ppm RTK Vertical Positioning Accuracy
- 5cm Absolute Horizontal Accuracy of Photogrammetric Models
This is on par with some of the most advanced equipment available, but in a much easier to use, lower priced, compact and more reliable package.
The new technology in the Phantom 4 RTK means that fewer ground points are required to achieve the same high level of accuracy.
How is the RTK used on the Phantom 4 RTK?
The new RTK module, sitting on top of the existing Phantom 4 quadcopter body, collects centimeter-level positioning data in real-time.
Extremely accurate positional data is then added to image metadata.
An additional redundant GNSS module ensures that the Phantom 4 RTK will remain stable in flight regardless of the conditions.
The combination of these modules make for accurate data collection for a range of mapping, surveying or inspection workflows.
If you need more flexibility, the Phantom 4 RTK can also be used in conjunction with the D-RTK 2 Mobile Station, NTRIP (Network Transport of RTCM via Internet Protocol) using a 4G dongle or WiFi hotspot, or store the satellite observation data to be used for Post Processed Kinematics (PPK).
New TimeSync feature on Phantom 4 RTK
DJI have created a new TimeSync system.
The purpose of this system is to make sure that all users can take full advantage of the Phantom 4 RTK's power.
It continually aligns the flight controller, camera and RTK module during flight.
Each photo that is taken uses the most accurate fixed positioning data at the center of the 1" CMOS sensor on the Phantom 4 RTK.
Phantom 4 RTK Image Capture
The camera is the same as the Phantom 4 Pro, a 1" CMOS sensor which captures incredible detail.
This high resolution camera allows the Phantom 4 RTK to achieve a Ground Sample Distance (GSD) of 2.74 cm at 100 meters flight altitude.
DJI rigorously calibrate each camera before dispatch, to ensure that your Phantom 4 RTK will collect only the most accurate images.
The unique distortion parameters for the individual camera or image are also saved into image metadata - allowing you to take accuracy even further in post processing.
New Flight Planning Application for Phantom 4 RTK
In addition to the new hardware, there's a new GS RTK app being released.
This gives pilots intelligent control over their Phantom 4 RTK unit in two different modes, Photogrammetry and Waypoint Flight, in addition to the usual flight modes.
These planning functions let you select a flight path, overlap rate, camera parameters, speed, altitude and more.
This gives you complete control to ensure you're capturing the most accurate data for your workflow at any given time.
The automation makes even the most complex of surveying missions simple.
Other features of the app include support for directly loading KML area files, a new shutter priority mode for consistent exposures and strong wind alarms to prevent the risk of reduced data quality during a mission.
Changes to Phantom 4 RTK Remote Control
The remote controller for the Phantom 4 RTK has also had some additional features.
It's based on the Phantom 4 Pro+ remote with a built in screen.
In addition however, the following improvements have been made:
- Pre-installed GS RTK application.
- Built-in Micro-SD card slot.
- Built-in speaker.
- Hot-swappable batteries.
- Can be used to connect to the internet using a 4G dongle.
DJI Terra
To take your missions further, the Phantom 4 RTK is compatible with DJI Terra - DJI's new mapping solution.
The models created in DJI Terra can be used in a huge array of applications, including public safety, construction, infrastructure, agriculture and media.
DJI Terra allows you to plan flights prior to your operations, collect and centralise drone data, create 3D maps from selected areas and carry out valuable data analysis.
There are two licences available for DJI Terra - Advanced and Pro. The Pro version (with extra features, such as 3D Reconstruction and 3D Mission Planning) is compatible with the Phantom 4 RTK. You can purchase the Terra licence on its own, or you can buy one of two combo bundles - one with the Phantom 4 RTK and DJI Terra, and another with these two items plus the D-RTK 2 Mobile Station.
Phantom 4 RTK FAQs
What propellers does the Phantom 4 RTK use?
The same 9450S Quick Release propellers as the Phantom 4 Pro.
What differential data formats are available from the Phantom 4 RTK's images?
Currently the Phantom 4 RTK supports RTCM 3.0 data, RTCM 3.1 data, MSM4 and MSM5 data under RTCM3.2.
How is camera distortion information stored?
Each Phantom 4 RTK camera goes through an advanced calibration process. OPEN-CV parameters are recorded in XMP files to ensure accuracy right down to the individual camera used to capture the imagery in question.
Are there any limitations to using waypoints with the Phantom 4 RTK?
There are some small restrictions. The distance between any two waypoints cannot be more than 2km. No more than 99 waypoints can be used in one mission and the total flight path cannot exceed 15km in length.
Drone Laws, Licences and Training Requirements
Drone Registration
Do I need UK drone registration?
Yes, you will need to register. Visit the CAA’s DMARES website. If you have already registered and have an Operator ID, ensure this is attached to your Phantom 4 RTK.
Where Can I Fly?
Without taking a drone training course, you will have to fly by the rules of the Open Category’s A3 subcategory (fly far from people). This says:
- No uninvolved people present within the area of flight;
- No flight within 150m horizontally of residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational areas.
Want more freedom? Take a drone training course.
Training Options
A2 CofC
An A2 CofC allows operations in the A2 subcategory (fly near to people) of the Open Category. This permits flights up to 50m horizontally from uninvolved people. This is allowed during the Transitional Period, which runs in the UK until December 31, 2022.
GVC
For operations which pose a greater risk than the Open Category or fall outside the Open Category parameters, a GVC is required to apply for an Operational Authorisation to fly in the Specific Category.
How Do I Get an A2 CofC or GVC?
Complete an A2 CofC or GVC with heliguy™ - a UK CAA-approved Recognised Assessment Entity - through our online training portal.
The A2 CofC involves a syllabus, followed by a multiple choice examination (sat remotely with Heliguy) and a period of practical flight training.
The GVC involves a syllabus, followed by a multiple-choice examination (sat remotely with Heliguy). Candidates are also required to produce an Operations Manual, and will undergo a practical flight assessment with a flight examiner.
Book an A2 CofC Course Book a GVC Course
Can I Fly Commercially With An A2 CofC or GVC?
Yes. Having an A2 CofC allows you to operate commercially. But the A2 CofC is not specifically a commercial permission; it is a competency which permits flights in the A2 subcategory, regardless of recreational or commercial flying.
You can fly commercially in the Open Category without an A2 CofC, but your operations will be restricted to the conditions of the A3 subcategory.
The GVC allows you to apply for an Operational Authorisation, which has replaced the Permission for Commercial Operation (PfCO), to fly in the Specific Category - geared towards enterprise drone pilots and for operations outside the remit of the Open Category.
Permission For Flight Association Members
Members of Flight Associations can fly under an Article 16 authorisation, which enables flights up to 30m of uninvolved people and 30m horizontal distance from an assembly of people in certain locations - without having to do an A2 CofC or GVC. Article 16 cannot be used for commercial reasons, though.
What Happens If I Had A Valid PfCO?
Holders of a Standard Permission valid beyond December 31, 2020, will have their permissions brought into line with the new Operational Authorisation (which has replaced the PfCO) to enable operations in the Specific Category. On renewal, this permission will become an Operational Authorisation. This means that you will not need to sit a GVC course yet, but will be required to complete a PfCO to GVC conversion course before January 1, 2024.
From January 2023 (End of Transitional Period)
The rules will change for DJI aircraft in their current form. Updated information released nearer the time.
Product Specification
Phantom 4 RTK Specifications
Please see the full specs of the DJI Phantom 4 Pro RTK system below.
Phantom 4 RTK Aircraft Specs
Weight with Battery and Propellers Fitted |
1391 g |
Max Service Ceiling Above Sea Level |
6000 m (19685 ft) |
Max Ascent Speed |
6 m/s (automatic flight) 5 m/s (manual control) |
Max Descent Speed |
3 m/s |
Max Speed |
31 mph (50 kph) (P-mode) 36 mph (58 kph) (A-mode) |
Max Flight Time |
Approximately 30 minutes |
Operating Temperature |
0° to 40° C (32° to 104° F) |
Operating Frequency |
2.400 GHz to 2.483 GHz (Europe, Japan, Korea) 5.725 GHz to 5.850 GHz (United States, China) |
EIRP |
2.4 GHz CE (Europe) / MIC (Japan) / KCC (Korea): < 20 dBm 5.8 GHz FCC (United States) / SRRC (Mainland China) / NCC (Taiwan, China): < 26 dBm |
Hover Accuracy Range |
RTK enabled and functioning properly: Vertical: ±0.1 m; Horizontal: ±0.1 m RTK disabled: Vertical: ±0.1 m (with vision positioning); ±0.5 m (with GNSS positioning) Horizontal: ±0.3 m (with vision positioning); ±1.5 m (with GNSS positioning) |
Image Position Offset |
The position of the camera center is relative to the phase center of the onboard D-RTK antenna under the aircraft body’s axis: (36, 0, and 192 mm) already applied to the image coordinates in Exif data. The positive x, y, and z axes of the aircraft body point to the forward, rightward, and downward of the aircraft, respectively. |
GNSS Module Specs
Single-Frequency High-Sensitivity GNSS |
GPS + BeiDou + Galileo* (Asia); GPS + GLONASS + Galileo* (other regions) |
Multi-Frequency Multi-System High-Precision RTK GNSS |
Frequency Used GPS: L1/L2; GLONASS: L1/L2; BeiDou: B1/B2; Galileo*: E1/E5 First-Fixed Time: < 50 s Positioning Accuracy: Vertical 1.5 cm + 1 ppm (RMS); Horizontal 1 cm + 1 ppm (RMS) 1 ppm indicates an error with a 1 mm increase over 1 km of movement Velocity Accuracy: 0.03 m/s |
Mapping Functions Specifications
Mapping Accuracy |
Mapping accuracy meets the requirements of the ASPRS Accuracy Standards for Digital Orthophotos Class III. The actual accuracy depends on surrounding lighting and patterns, aircraft altitude, mapping software used, and other factors when shooting. |
Ground Sample Distance (GSD) |
(H/36.5) cm/pixel, H indicates the aircraft altitude relative to the shooting scene (unit: m) |
Acquisition Efficiency |
Max operating area of approx. 1 km2 for a single flight (at an altitude of 182 m, i.e., GSD is approx. 5 cm/pixel, meeting the requirements of the ASPRS Accuracy Standards for Digital Orthophotos Class III). |
Phantom 4 RTK Gimbal Specifications
Stabilization |
3-axis (pitch, roll, yaw) |
Controllable Range |
Pitch: -90° to +30° |
Max Controllable Angular Speed |
Pitch: 90°/s |
Angular Vibration Range |
±0.02° |
Vision System
Velocity Range |
≤ 31 mph (50 kph) at 6.6 ft (2 m) above ground with adequate lighting |
Altitude Range |
0 - 10 m (0 - 33 ft) |
Operating Range |
0 - 10 m (0 - 33 ft) |
Obstacle Sensory Range |
0.7 - 30 m (2 - 98 ft) |
Field of View |
Forward/Rear: 60° (horizontal), ±27° (vertical) Downward: 70° (front and rear), 50° (left and right) |
Measuring Frequency |
Forward/Rear: 10 Hz Downward: 20 Hz |
Operating Environmental Conditions |
Surfaces with clear patterns and adequate lighting (> 15 lux) |
Infrared Sensing System
Obstacle Sensory Range |
0.2 - 7 m (0.6 - 23 ft ) |
Field of View |
70°(Horizontal), ±10°(Vertical) |
Measuring Frequency |
10 Hz |
Operating Environment |
Surface with diffuse reflection material, and reflectivity > 8% (such as wall, trees, humans, etc.) |
Phantom 4 RTK Camera Specs
Sensor |
1’’ CMOS; Effective pixels: 20M |
Lens Specs |
FOV (Field of View) 84°, 8.8 mm (35 mm format equivalent: 24 mm), f/2.8 - f/11, auto focus at 1 m - ∞ |
ISO Range |
Video: 100 - 3200 (Auto), 100 - 6400 (Manual) Photo: 100 - 3200 (Auto), 100 - 12800 (Manual) |
Mechanical Shutter |
8 - 1/2000 s |
Electronic Shutter |
8 - 1/8000 s |
Max Image Size |
4864×3648 (4:3) 5472×3648 (3:2) |
Still Photography Modes |
Single shot |
Video Recording Modes |
H.264, 4K: 3840×2160 30p |
Photo Format |
JPEG |
Video Format |
MOV |
Supported File Systems |
FAT32 (≤ 32 GB) exFAT (> 32 GB) |
Supported SD Cards |
microSD Max Capacity: 128 GB. Write speed ≥15MB/s. Class 10 or UHS-1 rating required |
Operating Temperature |
0° to 40° C (32° to 104° F) |
Phantom 4 RTK Remote Controller Specs
Operating Frequency |
2.400 GHz to 2.483 GHz (Europe, Japan, Korea) 5.725 GHz to 5.850 GHz (United States, China) |
EIRP |
2.4 GHz CE / MIC / KCC: < 20 dBm 5.8 GHz FCC / SRRC / NCC: < 26 dBm |
Max Transmission Distance |
FCC / NCC: 4.3 mi (7 km) CE / MIC / KCC / SRRC: 3.1 mi (5 km) (Unobstructed, free of interference) |
Power Consumption |
16 W (typical value) |
Display Device |
5.5 inch screen 1920×1080 1000 cd/m2 Android system 4G RAM + 16G ROM |
Operating Temperature |
0° to 40° C (32° to 104° F) |
Phantom 4 RTK Battery Specifications
Capacity |
5870 mAh |
Voltage |
15.2 V |
Battery Type |
LiPo 4S |
Energy |
89.2 Wh |
Net Weight |
468 g |
Operating Temperature |
-10° to 40° C (14° to 104° F) |
Max Charging Power |
160 W |
Charging Hub Specs
Voltage |
17.5 V |
Operating Temperature |
5° to 40° C (41° to 104° F) |
Remote Controller Intelligent Battery (WB37)
Capacity |
4920 mAh |
Voltage |
7.6 V |
Battery Type |
LiPo 2S |
Energy |
37.39 Wh |
Operating Temperature |
-20° to 40° C (-4° to 104° F) |
Intelligent Battery Charging Hub Specification
Input Voltage |
17.3 to 26.2 V |
Output Voltage and Current |
8.7 V, 6 A; 5 V, 2 A |
Operating Temperature |
5° to 40° C (41° to 104° F) |
AC Power Adapter Specs
Voltage |
17.4 V |
Rated Power |
160 W |
