User's Manual

Table Of Contents
5 Using the GNSS Receiver
66 GeoExplorer 6000 Series User Guide
Improving GNSS productivity using Floodlight satellite
shadow reduction technology
The productivity of high-accuracy GNSS receivers can be affected by satellite shadow.
Satellite shadow occurs when the line of sight between a GNSS receiver and GNSS
satellites is partially or fully blocked by obstructions such as buildings, trees, or even
the landscape itself. The effect of satellite shadow is a reduction in the number of
satellites that the receiver can track. In general, the quality of your data decreases
when the number of satellites which is used to calculate the position is low, and in
many cases when large portions of the sky are obstructed, it is impossible to generate
any positions at all.
The Floodlight satellite shadow reduction technology option for the GeoExplorer 6000
series reduces the effects of satellite shadow to help deliver more positions and better
accuracy in conditions affected by satellite shadow.
The Floodlight technology option improves GNSS productivity using three key
technologies:
it enables GLONASS satellite tracking, which greatly increases the number of
satellites that the GNSS receiver can track. Tracking more satellites can help to
improve satellite geometry and thereby improve accuracy.
it utilizes barometric measurements to assist the GNSS receiver. The barometer
measurements can assist by improving both the vertical and horizontal
accuracy of positions, particularly in conditions where the satellite count is very
low, for example under tree canopy.
it improves the ability of the receiver to track weaker satellite signals which are
common when working in the shadows of trees and buildings.
To achieve optimum Floodlight technology
performance, it is important that the
barometer is kept free of obstructions. Make
sure that the Barometer seal located on the
underside of the device is kept clear and is not
covered by your fingers or any other covering.
Note – If you are using Trimble field software, for
example, the TerraSync software, make sure that
you have selected the correct option for
postprocessing data—if your base station(s)
provide corrections for GPS and GLONASS
satellites, select GPS + GLONASS. This affects
the accuracy of the Predicted Postprocessed Accuracy (PPA). See Accuracy settings and
using accuracy-based logging, page 68.
To purchase the Floodlight technology option, contact your Trimble reseller.
After purchase, you must activate the Floodlight technology option on the receiver. See
Activating the Floodlight technology and the NMEA output options, page 74.
Barometer