In an exciting development for the GNSS surveying community, Carlson Software has introduced the new Viking receiver, designed to tackle one of the most significant challenges faced in this field: achieving reliable performance beneath dense tree canopies. This innovative GNSS base and rover receiver is specifically engineered to ensure consistent, centimeter-level accuracy, even in environments where issues like signal obstruction, multipath interference, and canopy coverage are prevalent.
Dane Sherman, who serves as the director of land surveying services at Acorn Engineering (https://acorn-engineering.com/), found the perfect testing ground for the Carlson Viking in Maine, USA. The region is characterized by towering pine trees that reach heights of 70 to 100 feet (approximately 21 to 30 meters), making it an ideal scenario to evaluate the receiver's capabilities.
Sherman and his team began utilizing the Viking shortly before its official launch, having made their purchase through Carlson dealer Wachusett Survey Solutions. This early access allowed Acorn Engineering to integrate the system into their field operations almost immediately. When Carlson announced the product's release on LinkedIn, Sherman enthusiastically shared, "It’s already helping Acorn Engineering to conquer the woods of New England!"
The initial field trials have showcased the receiver's effectiveness, particularly in challenging conditions marked by heavy overhead foliage. As Carlson's most advanced GNSS receiver to date, the Viking features the company's proprietary GAMA RTK engine and what they call “Triple-Fix” technology. This sophisticated design incorporates dual GNSS RTK modules alongside three independent RTK engines, which only deliver a validated position when all systems agree. This method aims to minimize false positioning fixes and enhance user confidence, especially in complex environments such as densely forested areas.
Sherman's decision to adopt the Viking stemmed from his extensive experience with Carlson equipment. Throughout his eight-year career in surveying, he has worked with GNSS systems from various manufacturers; however, Carlson remains the first platform he learned to use. He previously operated the BRx6 and BRx7 receivers, noting their durability and reliability in demanding field conditions without requiring many additional accessories.
Now leading the surveying department at Acorn Engineering, Sherman relies on this broader experience to choose the best tools for his team. "I’ll buy whatever is the best product," he stated, emphasizing that the Viking's outstanding performance was a key factor in the decision to purchase. While cost was not the primary consideration, he did mention that the pricing was competitive, and that the overall performance of the Viking consistently stood out. "Carlson just gives us more confidence that we’re getting good data," he added.
One of the notable features highlighted by Sherman is the Triple-Fix capability, which enhances both the speed and reliability of positioning. Although Acorn's team has yet to encounter conditions that truly test the limits of the Viking, he believes it is exceptionally well-suited for the typical forested landscapes found in New England. "It’s definitely made for this type of environment," he remarked.
In addition to its impressive positioning capabilities, the Viking boasts calibration-free tilt compensation, which allows for precise measurements even when poles are inclined at angles up to 60 degrees. The receiver is also equipped with dual hot-swappable batteries, a variety of communication options—including UHF radio, cellular, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi—and can function as either a base station or a rover. Its integration with Carlson SurvPC and Layout software, along with a web-based interface for configuration and monitoring, aims to enhance efficiency in field workflows.
Moreover, the Viking marks Carlson Software’s second GNSS receiver manufactured in the USA, following the VASCO-B, with assembly taking place at the company’s facility in Maysville, Kentucky. Although domestic manufacturing was not a critical factor for Acorn Engineering, Sherman considered it an "added bonus" to support local industry.
Customer support was another essential aspect in their decision-making process. Sherman noted that responsive technical assistance has been a consistent feature across Carlson products, which remains vital for operational success. "That is pretty important to the bottom line here," he pointed out, citing it as one reason for his continued partnership with Carlson systems.
Looking to the future, Sherman expressed optimism regarding the Viking's potential to unlock new opportunities as Acorn Engineering undertakes more ambitious projects. "Check back with us in a year!" he encouraged, hinting at the exciting developments that may lie ahead.
