TRIMBLE R8s

GNSS Receiver

User Guide

Version 1.00
Revision D
March 2020
Corporate Office installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be
Trimble Inc. determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
935 Stewart Drive encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more
Sunnyvale, California 94085 of the following measures:
USA – Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment and the
Geospatial Division
receiver.
Trimble Inc. – Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different
10368 Westmoor Drive from that to which the receiver is connected.
Westminster, CO 80021 – Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician
for help.
USA
Changes and modifications not expressly approved by the
www.trimble.com
manufacturer or registrant of this equipment can void your
Email: trimble_support@trimble.com
authority to operate this equipment under Federal
Legal Notices Communications Commission rules.

© 2020, Trimble Inc. All rights reserved. Canada

Trimble, the Globe & Triangle logo, BlueCap, CenterPoint, This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for
GPS Total Station, RangePoint, Recon, and TSC2 are radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the
trademarks of Trimble Inc., registered in the United States radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department
and in other countries. Access, CMR+, Digital Fieldbook, of Communications. This Category II radiocommunication
FieldPoint, Maxwell, Trimble Geomatics Office, Trimble Survey device complies with Industry Canada Standard RSS-310.
Controller, TRIMMARK, TRIMTALK, TSCe, and ViewPoint are
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits
trademarks of Trimble Inc.
radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux
The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans le
Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Trimble Inc. règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le
is under license. Ministère des Communications du Canada. Ce dispositif de
Microsoft, Windows, and Windows NT are either registered radiocommunication de catégorie II respecte la norme CNR-
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the 310 d’Industrie Canada.
United States and/or other countries.
Europe
All other trademarks are the property of their respective
This product has been tested and
owners.
found to comply with the essential
Release Notice requirements for a Class B device
This is the March 2020 release (Revision D) of the Trimble R8s pursuant to European Council Directive 1999/5/EC on R&TTE
receiver documentation. on EMC, thereby satisfying the requirements for CE Marking
and sale within the European Economic Area (EEA). These
Product Limited Warranty Information requirements are designed to provide reasonable protection
For applicable product Limited Warranty information, please against harmful interference when the equipment is
refer to the Limited Warranty Card included with this Trimble operated in a residential or commercial environment. The
product, or consult your local Trimble authorized dealer 450 MHz band is not harmonised across the European
Community.
Notices
Class B Statement – Notice to Users. This equipment has Australia and New Zealand
been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B This product conforms with the regulatory
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules and Part requirements of the Australian
90. These limits are designed to provide reasonable Communications and Media Authority
protection against harmful interference in a residential (ACMA) EMC framework, thus satisfying the
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate requirements for RCM marking and sale within Australia and
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in New Zealand.
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communication. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 2

Taiwan – Battery Recycling Requirements FCC Declaration of Conformity

The product contains a removable Lithium-ion battery. We, Trimble Inc.

Taiwanese regulations require that waste batteries are 935 Stewart Drive
recycled. PO Box 3642
廢電池請回收 Sunnyvale, CA 94088-3642
United States
+1-408-481-8000
Brazil Declare under sole responsibility that DoC products comply
Este produto está homologado pela ANATEL, de with Part 15 of FCC Rules.
acordo com os procedimentos regulamentados pela Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
Resolução 242/2000, e atende aos requisitos técnicos (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
aplicados. (2) This device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation
Este equipamento opera em caráter secundário, isto é,
não tem direito a proteção contra interferências RTTE Compliance statements
prejudicial, mesmo de estações do mesmo tipo, e não
Czech Trimble Inc. tímto prohlašuje, že
pode causar interferência a sistemas operando em
tento (Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS)
caráter primário.
je ve shodě se základními
Para maiores informações, consulte o site da ANATEL požadavky a dalšími příslušnými
www.anatel.gov.br. ustanoveními směrnice 1999/5/ES.

Modelo CBSMA-110A Danish Undertegnede Trimble Inc.

erklærer herved, at følgende
udstyr (Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS)
overholder de væsentlige krav og
øvrige relevante krav i direktiv
1999/5/EF.
Dutch Hierbij verklaart Trimble Inc. dat
het toestel (Trimble R8s Model 1
GNSS) in overeenstemming is met
de essentiële eisen en de andere
0757-13-6140 relevante bepalingen van richtlijn
1999/5/EG.
English Hereby, Trimble Inc., declares that
this equipment (Trimble R8s Model
1 GNSS) is in compliance with the
essential requirements and other
relevant provisions of Directive
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) 1999/5/EC.

For product recycling instructions and more Estonian Käesolevaga kinnitab Trimble Inc.
information, please go to seadme (Trimble R8s Model 1
www.trimble.com/Corporate/Environmental_ GNSS) vastavust direktiivi
Compliance.aspx. 1999/5/EÜ põhinõuetele ja
nimetatud direktiivist tulenevatele
Recycling in Europe: To recycle Trimble WEEE
teistele asjakohastele sätetele.
(Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment, products that run
on electrical power.), Call +31 497 53 24 30, and ask for the German Hiermit erklärt Trimble Inc., dass
“WEEE Associate”. Or, mail a request for recycling instructions sich das Gerät (Trimble R8s Model
to: 1 GNSS) in Übereinstimmung mit
den grundlegenden
Trimble Europe B.V. & Trimble International B.V.
Anforderungen und den übrigen
Industrieweg 187a einschlägigen Bestimmungen der
5683 CC Best Richtlinie 1999/5/EG befindet.
The Netherlands

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 3

Greek ΜΕ ΤΗΝ ΠΑΡΟΥΣΑ Trimble Inc. Norwegian Trimble Inc. erklærer herved at
ΔΗΛΩΝΕΙ ΟΤΙ (Trimble R8s Model 1 utstyret (Trimble R8s Model 1
GNSS) ΣΥΜΜΟΡΦΩΝΕΤΑΙ ΠΡΟΣ GNSS) i samsvar med de
ΤΙΣ ΟΥΣΙΩΔΕΙΣ ΑΠΑΙΤΗΣΕΙΣ ΚΑΙ ΤΙΣ grunnleggende krav og øvrige
ΛΟΙΠΕΣ ΣΧΕΤΙΚΕΣ ΔΙΑΤΑΞΕΙΣ ΤΗΣ relevante krav i direktiv 1999/5/EF.
ΟΔΗΓΙΑΣ 1999/5/ΕΚ. Polish Niniejszym Trimble Inc. oświadcza,
Hungarian Alulírott, Trimble Inc. nyilatkozom, że (Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS jest
hogy a (Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS) zgodny z zasadniczymi wymogami
megfelel a vonatkozó alapvetõ oraz pozostałymi stosownymi
követelményeknek és az postanowieniami Dyrektywy
1999/5/EC irányelv egyéb 1999/5/EC.
elõírásainak. Portuguese Trimble Inc. declara que este
Finnish Trimble Inc. vakuuttaa täten että (Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS) está
(Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS) conforme com os requisitos
tyyppinen laite on direktiivin essenciais e outras disposições da
1999/5/EY oleellisten vaatimusten Directiva 1999/5/CE.
ja sitä koskevien direktiivin muiden Slovak Trimble Inc. týmto vyhlasuje, že
ehtojen mukainen. (Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS) spĺňa
French Par la présente Trimble Inc. základné požiadavky a všetky
déclare que l'appareil (Trimble R8s príslušné ustanovenia Smernice
Model 1 GNSS) est conforme aux 1999/5/ES.
exigences essentielles et aux Slovenian Trimble Inc. izjavlja, da je ta
autres dispositions pertinentes de (Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS) skladu
la directive 1999/5/CE. z bistvenimi zahtevami in ostalimi
Icelandic Hér með lýsir Trimble Inc. yfir því að relevantnimi določili direktive
(Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS) er í 1999/5/ES.
samræmi við grunnkröfur og aðrar Spanish Por medio de la presente Trimble
kröfur, sem gerðar eru í tilskipun Inc. declara que el (Trimble R8s
1999/5/EC. Model 1 GNSS) cumple con los
Italian Con la presente Trimble Inc. requisitos esenciales y
dichiara che questo (Trimble R8s cualesquiera otras disposiciones
Model 1 GNSS) è conforme ai aplicables o exigibles de la
requisiti essenziali ed alle altre Directiva 1999/5/CE.
disposizioni pertinenti stabilite Swedish Härmed intygar Trimble Inc. att
dalla direttiva 1999/5/CE. denna (Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS)
Latvian Ar šo Trimble Inc. deklarē, ka står I överensstämmelse med de
(Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS) atbilst väsentliga egenskapskrav och
Direktīvas 1999/5/EK būtiskajām övriga relevanta bestämmelser
prasībām un citiem ar to som framgår av direktiv
saistītajiem noteikumiem. 1999/5/EG.
Lithuanian Šiuo Trimble Inc. deklaruoja, kad šis
(Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS)
atitinka esminius reikalavimus ir
kitas 1999/5/EB Direktyvos
nuostatas.
Maltese Hawnhekk, Trimble Inc., jiddikjara li
dan (Trimble R8s Model 1 GNSS)
jikkonforma mal-ħtiġijiet essenzjali
u ma provvedimenti oħrajn
relevanti li hemm fid-Dirrettiva
1999/5/EC.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 4

Safety Information
Before you use your Trimble product, make sure that you have read and understood all
safety requirements.

WARNING – This alert warns of a potential hazard which, if not avoided, could result
in severe injury or even death.

CAUTION – This alert warns of a potential hazard or unsafe practice that could
result in minor injury or property damage or irretrievable data loss.

NOTE – An absence of specific alerts does not mean that there are no safety risks involved.

Regulations and safety

The receivers contain integral Bluetooth® wireless technology, and may also send radio
signals through the antenna of an internal radio-modem, or through an externally-
connected data communications radio. Regulations regarding the use of the 450 MHz
radio-modems vary greatly from country to country. In some countries, the unit can be
used without obtaining an end-user license. Other countries require end-user licensing.
For licensing information, consult your local Trimble distribution partner. Bluetooth
operates in license-free bands.

Use and Care

This product is designed to withstand the rough treatment and tough environment that
typically occurs in applications. However, the receiver is a high-precision electronic
instrument and should be treated with reasonable care.

CAUTION – Operating or storing the receiver outside the specified temperature

range can damage it.

Type approval
Type approval, or acceptance, covers technical parameters of the equipment related to
emissions that can cause interference. Type approval is granted to the manufacturer of
the transmission equipment, independent from the operation or licensing of the units.
Some countries have unique technical requirements for operation in particular radio-

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 5

 Safety Information

modem frequency bands. To comply with those requirements, Trimble may have modified
your equipment to be granted type approval.
Unauthorized modification of the units voids the type approval, the warranty, and the
operational license of the equipment.

Operation near other radio equipment

When operating the receiver in member states of the European Union and in other
counties which adhere to the EU R&TTE requirements, while in the vicinity of aeronautical
radionavigation equipment operating between 2700 and 2900 MHz, or Fixed, Fixed Satellite
(space to Earth), or Mobile systems operating at 4170 MHz, a minimum separation of 5
meters must be maintained between the receiver and such radio equipment.

Exposure to radio frequency radiation

For 450 MHz radio
Safety. Exposure to RF energy is an important safety consideration. The FCC has adopted a
safety standard for human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic energy emitted
by FCC regulated equipment as a result of its actions in General Docket 79-144 on March
13, 1986.
Proper use of this radio modem results in exposure below government limits. The
following precautions are recommended:
l DO NOT operate the transmitter when someone is within 20 cm (7.8 inches) of the
antenna.
l DO NOT co-locate (place within 25 cm (9.8 inches)) the radio antenna with any other
transmitting antenna.
l DO NOT operate the transmitter unless all RF connectors are secure and any open
connectors are properly terminated.
l DO NOT operate the equipment near electrical blasting caps or in an explosive
atmosphere.
l All equipment must be properly grounded according to Trimble installation
instructions for safe operation.
l All equipment should be serviced only by a qualified technician.

For GSM radio

For your own safety, and in terms of the RF Exposure requirements of the FCC, always
observe the precautions listed here.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 6

 Safety Information

l Always maintain a minimum separation distance of 20 cm (7.8 inches) between yourself

and the radiating antenna on the receiver radio modem.
l Do not collocate (place within 20 cm) the radio antenna with any other transmitting
antenna
NOTE – The optional GSM radio cannot legally be operated in Brazil.

For Bluetooth radio

The radiated output power of the internal Bluetooth wireless radio and the Wi-Fi radio
included in some Trimble receivers is far below the FCC radio frequency exposure limits.
Nevertheless, the wireless radio(s) shall be used in such a manner that the Trimble receiver
is 20 cm or further from the human body. The internal wireless radio(s) operate within
guidelines found in radio frequency safety standards and recommendations, which reflect
the consensus of the scientific community. Trimble therefore believes that the internal
wireless radio(s) are safe for use by consumers. The level of energy emitted is far less than
the electromagnetic energy emitted by wireless devices such as mobile phones. However,
the use of wireless radios may be restricted in some situations or environments, such as
on aircraft. If you are unsure of restrictions, you are encouraged to ask for authorization
before turning on the wireless radio.

Installing antennas
CAUTION – For your own safety, and in terms of the RF exposure requirements of
the FCC, always observe these precautions:
l Always maintain a minimum separation distance of cm ( inches) between yourself
and the radiating antenna.
l Do not co-locate the antenna with any other transmitting device.

This device has been designed to operate with the antennas listed below.
UHF antennas not included in this list, or that have a gain greater than 5 dBi, are strictly
prohibited for use with this device. The required antenna impedance is 50 W..
The antennas that can be used (country dependent) with the 450 MHz radio are 0 dBi and
5 dBi whip antennas.
The antenna that can be used with the GSM radio is the 0 dBi whip antenna.
To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should
be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that
permitted for successful communication.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 7

 Safety Information

Trimble receiver internal radios have been designed to operate with the antennas listed
below. Antennas not included in this list are strictly prohibited for use with this device. The
required antenna impedance is 50 ohms.
To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should
be an approved Trimble antenna, so that the equivalent isotropically radiated power
(e.i.r.p.) is not more than that permitted for successful communication.

Lithium-ion Battery safety

WARNING – Charge and use the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery only in strict
accordance with the instructions. Charging or using the battery in unauthorized
equipment can cause an explosion or fire, and can result in personal injury and/or
equipment damage. To prevent injury or damage:
l Do not charge or use the battery if it appears to be damaged or leaking.
l Charge the Lithium-ion batteries only in a Trimble battery charger, such as the dual
battery charger P/N 61116-00 (black) or P/N 53018010 (grey), or the five-battery
system charger P/N (yellow/grey) or another charger specified for this battery. Be
sure to follow all instructions that are provided with the battery charger.
l Discontinue charging a battery that gives off extreme heat or a burning odor.
l Use the battery only in Trimble equipment that is specified to use it.
l Use the battery only for its intended use and according to the instructions in the
product documentation.

WARNING – Do not damage the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery. A damaged

battery can cause an explosion or fire, and can result in personal injury and/or
property damage.
To prevent injury or damage:
l Do not use or charge the battery if it appears to be damaged. Signs of damage
include, but are not limited to, discoloration, warping, and leaking battery fluid.
l Do not expose the battery to fire, high temperature, or direct sunlight.
l Do not immerse the battery in water.
l Do not use or store the battery inside a vehicle during hot weather.
l Do not drop or puncture the battery.
l Do not open the battery or short-circuit its contacts.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 8

 Safety Information

WARNING – Avoid contact with the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery if it appears to

be leaking. Battery fluid is corrosive, and contact with it can result in personal injury
and/or property damage.
To prevent injury or damage:
l If the battery leaks, avoid contact with the battery fluid.
l If battery fluid gets into your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes with clean water and
seek medical attention. Do not rub your eyes!
l If battery fluid gets onto your skin or clothing, immediately use clean water to wash
off the battery fluid.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 9

Contents
Safety Information 5
Regulations and safety 5
Use and Care 5
Type approval 5
Operation near other radio equipment 6
Exposure to radio frequency radiation 6
For 450 MHz radio 6
For GSM radio 6
For Bluetooth radio 7
Installing antennas 7
Lithium-ion Battery safety 8

1 Introduction 13
Introduction 14
Use and care 14
COCOM limits 14
Related information 15
Technical support 15

2 Setting up the Receiver 16

Parts of the R8s receiver 17
Front panel 17
Lower housing 17
External UHF or GSM antenna 19
Setup guidelines 19
Operation near other radio equipment 19
Environmental conditions 19
Sources of electrical interference 19
General guidelines 20
Setting up the receiver on a range pole 20
Other system components 21
Radios 21
Internal GSM setup 22
Internal radio setup 22
Cellular modems and external radios 22

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 10

3 General Operation 24
Front panel controls 25
Button functions 25
LED behavior 26
Charging the receiver's battery 27
Storing the Lithium-ion battery 29
Disposing of the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery 29
Power output 29
Firmware 29
Logging data 30
Logging internally 30
Logging to a Trimble controller 31

4 Configuring the receiver 32

Configuring the receiver in real time 33
Configuring the receiver using application files 33

5 Default Settings 34
Default receiver settings 35
Resetting the receiver to factory defaults 36
Default behavior 36
Power up settings 36

6 Cables and Connectors 37

Port 1 and 2 connectors 38
Power/serial data cables 40

7 NMEA Output Messages 42

NMEA-0183 messages: Overview 43
NMEA-0183 messages: Common message elements 45
NMEA Message values 45
List of supported NMEA messages 46
NMEA-0183 message: DP (Dynamic Positioning) 46
NMEA-0183 message: DTM 47
NMEA-0183 message: GBS 48
NMEA-0183 message: GGA 49
NMEA-0183 message: GLL 51
NMEA-0183 message: GNS 52
NMEA-0183 message: GRS 55
NMEA-0183 message: GSA 56

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 11

 NMEA-0183 message: GST 57
NMEA-0183 message: GSV 57
NMEA-0183 message: HDT 59
NMEA-0183 message: LLQ 59
NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,AVR 60
NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,BPQ 61
NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,GGK 62
NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,PJK 64
NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,PJT 66
NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,VGK 66
NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,VHD 67
NMEA-0183 message: RMC 69
NMEA-0183 message: ROT 69
NMEA-0183 message: VTG 70
NMEA-0183 message: ZDA 71

8 RTCM Output 72
RTCM Output: Generated messages 72
Message scheduling 73

9 Troubleshooting 74
Troubleshooting LED conditions 74
Troubleshooting receiver issues 75

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 12

 1
Introduction
n Introduction
n Use and care
n COCOM limits
n Related information
n Technical support
This manual describes how to set up and use a Trimble® R8s GNSS receiver.
Even if you have used other Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) products before,
Trimble recommends that you spend some time reading this manual to learn about the
special features of your receiver.
If you are not familiar with GNSS, visit our website for an interactive look at Trimble and
GNSS at www.trimble.com.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 13

 1 Introduction

Introduction
The receiver incorporates a GNSS antenna, receiver, internal radio with a transmit option
or an internal GSM module, and a battery in a rugged light-weight unit that is ideally suited
as an all-on-the-pole RTK rover. Three LEDs allow you to monitor the satellite tracking,
radio reception, data logging status, and power. Bluetooth wireless technology provides
cable-free communications between receiver and controller.
The circuitry in the Trimble R8s GNSS receiver provides up to 440 channels for satellite
tracking, and supports logging raw GNSS observables to the internal receiver memory or
to a handheld controller for postprocessed applications.
The receiver is available in a number of configurations that match the needs of your
workflow. This includes configurations for post-processing workflows, for use as a base
station or rover, or for total flexibility as both a base station and RTK / VRS rover.

Use and care

The receiver can withstand the rough treatment that typically occurs in the field. However,
it is a high-precision electronic instrument and should be treated with reasonable care.

WARNING – Operating or storing the receiver outside the specified temperature

range can damage it.

High-power signals from a nearby radio or radar transmitter can overwhelm the receiver
circuits. This does not harm the instrument, but it can prevent the receiver electronics
from functioning correctly. Avoid using the receiver within 400 meters of powerful radar,
television, or other transmitters. Low-power transmitters such as those used in cellphones
and two-way radios normally do not interfere with receiver operations.
For more information, contact your local Trimble distributor.

COCOM limits
The U.S. Department of Commerce requires that all exportable GPS products contain
performance limitations so that they cannot be used in a manner that could threaten the
security of the United States. The following limitations are implemented on the receiver.
Immediate access to satellite measurements and navigation results is disabled when the
receiver’s velocity is computed to be greater than 1000 knots, or its altitude is computed to
be above 18,000 meters. The receiver continuously resets until the COCOM situation is
cleared.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 14

 1 Introduction

Related information
An electronic copy of this manual is available in portable document format (PDF) at
www.trimble.com. Use Adobe Reader to view the contents of this file.
Sources of related information include the following:
l Release notes – The release notes describe new features of the product, information
not included in the manuals, and any changes to the manuals. They can be
downloaded from the Trimble website at www.trimble.com/Support/Support_AZ.aspx.
l Trimble training courses – Consider a training course to help you use your GNSS
system to its fullest potential. For more information, go to the Trimble website at
www.trimble.com/Support/Index_Training.aspx.
l Registration – Register your receiver to automatically receive e-mail notifications of
receiver firmware upgrades and new functionality. To register, go to www.trimble.com.
Contact your local Trimble distribution partner for more information about the
support agreement contracts for software and firmware, and an extended warranty
program for hardware.

Technical support
If you have a problem and cannot find the information you need in the product
documentation, contact your local dealer. Alternatively, go to the Support area of the
Trimble website (www.trimble.com/Support.shtml). Select the product you need
information on. Product updates, documentation, and any support issues are available for
download.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 15

 2
Setting up the Receiver
n Parts of the R8s receiver
n Setup guidelines, page 19
n Setting up the receiver on a range pole
n Other system components

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 16

 2 Setting up the Receiver

Parts of the R8s receiver

All operating controls on the receiver are located on the front panel. Serial ports and
connectors are located on the bottom of the unit.

Front panel
The following image shows the receiver front panel, which contains the three indicator light
emitting diodes (LEDs), and the Power button.

The Power button controls the receiver’s power on or off functions.

The indicator LEDs show the status of power, satellite tracking, and radio reception. For
more information, see LED behavior, page 26.

Lower housing
The following image shows the receiver lower housing, which contains the two serial ports,
one TNC radio antenna or GSM antenna connector (depending on the internal
communication module ordered), the removable battery compartment and the ⅝-11
threaded insert.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 17

 2 Setting up the Receiver

❶ Radio antenna connection

❷ Port 2

❸ Port 1

Each port or connector on the receiver is marked with an icon to indicate its main function:

Icon Name Connection

Port 1 Device, computer, external radio, power in

Port 2 Device, computer, external radio

Radio Radio communications antenna

Port 1 is a 7-pin 0-shell Lemo connector that supports RS-232 comms and external power
input.
Port 1 has no power outputs.
Port 2 is a DB-9 male connector that allows for full 9-pin RS-232 comms. Port 2 does not
support power in or out. For more information, see Cables and Connectors, page 37 and
Cables and Connectors, page 37.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 18

 2 Setting up the Receiver

The TNC connector is for connecting a radio antenna to the receiver internal radio. A whip
“rubber duck” antenna is supplied with the system for units with internal UHF radios. This
connector is not used if you are using an external UHF radio or GSM.

External UHF or GSM antenna

Depending on which module you have purchased, use this TNC connection for an external
antenna for the UHF or GSM antenna.
For more information on connecting the receiver, see the following sections in this chapter.

Setup guidelines
Consider the following guidelines when setting up the receiver.

CAUTION – To satisfy the RF Exposure requirements of the FCC, you must maintain
a minimum separation distance of 20 cm (approximately 8 in.) between yourself and the
radiating UHF antenna for this device. For mobile operation, the maximum gain of the
UHF antenna must not exceed 0 dBi.

Operation near other radio equipment

When operating the receiver in member states of the European Union and in other
counties which adhere to the EU R&TTE requirements, while in the vicinity of aeronautical
radionavigation equipment operating between 2700 and 2900 MHz, or Fixed, Fixed Satellite
(space to Earth) or Mobile systems operating at 4170 MHz, a minimum separation of 5
meters must be maintained between the receiver and such radio equipment.

Environmental conditions
Although the receiver has a waterproof housing, take reasonable care to protect the unit.
Avoid exposure to extreme environmental conditions, including:
l Water
l Heat greater than 65 °C (149 °F)
l Cold less than –40 °C (–40 °F)
l Corrosive fluids and gases

Sources of electrical interference

Avoid the following sources of electrical and magnetic noise:

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 19

 2 Setting up the Receiver

l Gasoline engines (spark plugs)

l Televisions and PC monitors
l Alternators and generators
l Electric motors
l Equipment with DC-to-AC converters
l Fluorescent lights
l Switching power supplies

General guidelines

WARNING – These receivers use a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery. To avoid

personal injury or equipment damage, ensure that you read and understand the
Safety Information at the front of this manual.

The following guidelines apply whenever you set up the receiver for operation:
l When plugging in a Lemo cable, make sure that the red dots on the receiver port and
the cable connector line up. Do not use force to plug cables in, as this may damage the
connector pins.
l When disconnecting a Lemo cable, grasp the cable by the sliding collar or lanyard and
then pull the cable connector straight out of the port. Do not twist the connector or
pull on the cable itself.
l To securely connect a TNC cable, align the cable connector with the receiver receptacle
and then thread the cable connector onto the receptacle until it is snug.
l To insert the internal battery, place the battery in the battery compartment, ensuring
that the contact points are in the correct position to align with the contacts in the
receiver. Slide the battery and compartment as a unit upward into the receiver until the
battery compartment latches are locked into position.

Setting up the receiver on a range pole

To mount the receiver on a range pole:
1. Thread the receiver onto the range pole.

2. Attach the controller bracket to the pole.

3. Insert the controller into the controller bracket.

NOTE – When using a Trimble TSC3, Trimble TSC2,® Trimble TCU, Trimble Tablet Rugged PC, or
Trimble Slate controller, no cabling is required, as shown below.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 20

 2 Setting up the Receiver

Other system components

This section describes optional components that you can use with the receiver.

Radios
Radios are the most common data link for Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) surveying. The
receiver is available with an optional internal radio in the 450 MHz UHF band, or with an
internal GSM module. You can also connect an external radio to either receiver port,
whether or not the internal radio is installed.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 21

 2 Setting up the Receiver

The receiver supports the following Trimble base radios with the internal 450 MHz radio:
l Trimble TDL 450H
l Trimble TDL 450L
l Trimble HPB450
l Trimble PDL450
l Receiver internal 450 MHz transmitter
l TRIMMARK™ 3 radio
l SiteNet™ 450 radio

Internal GSM setup

You can configure the optional internal GSM Module using the Trimble Access™ software.
For more information, refer to the field software documentation.

Internal radio setup

To configure the optional internal radio, use the Trimble Access software.
For more information, refer to the Trimble Access Help.
By default, the internal radio has only a few “test” frequencies installed at the factory. If you
purchased the transmit option, the broadcast frequencies must be programmed by the
Trimble distribution partner. You can program the receive frequencies using the Trimble
Access software. Refer to the Trimble Access Help.

Cellular modems and external radios

For a data communications link, you can use an internal or external radio, or an internal or
external cellular modem.
To connect an external cellular modem to the receiver, you need the following:
l A Trimble R8s GNSS receiver.
l A cellular modem, or a cellphone that can transmit and receive data.
l Serial (cellphone to DB9) cable (supplied with the cellular modem or phone).
l Port 2 of the receiver supports full RS-232 protocol, and should function properly with
most cellular phone cables. Some cellular units may require custom cabling.
Alternatively, the receiver also supports a cable-free Bluetooth connection with
Bluetooth-enabled cell phones.
For more information on using an external cellular modem as a data link, refer to the
Trimble Access or Trimble Survey Controller documentation.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 22

 2 Setting up the Receiver

To connect an external radio modem to a receiver, you need the following:

l A receiver.
l An external radio capable of receiving and decoding Trimble data packets.
l Serial cable for either Port 1 or Port 2 of the receiver, as supplied by the radio
manufacturer.
l Radio mount for the range pole.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 23

 3
General Operation
n Front panel controls
n Button functions
n LED behavior
n Logging data
All the controls that you need for general receiver operation are on the front panel.
For more information about other receiver panels, see Parts of the R8s receiver, page 17.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 24

 3 General Operation

Front panel controls

The following image shows the receiver front panel controls for the power on/off functions,
or receiver reset. The LEDs provide power, radio, data logging, and SV tracking status
information.

❶ Satellite tracking LED

❷ Radio LED

❸ Power / Data status LED

❹ Power button

Button functions
The receiver has only one button, the Power button. Press the Power button to turn on or
turn off the receiver, and to perform other functions, as described below:

To... Do this...

turn on the receiver Press the Power button

turn off the receiver Hold the Power button for 2

seconds

clear the ephemeris file and reset the receiver to the Hold the Power button for 15
factory defaults seconds

Delete application files Hold the Power button for 30

seconds

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 25

 3 General Operation

NOTE – The term “press” means to press the button and release it immediately. The term “hold”
means to press the button and hold it down for the given time.

LED behavior
The three LEDs on the front panel of the receiver indicate various operating conditions.
Generally, a lit or slowly flashing LED indicates normal operation, a LED that is flashing
quickly indicates a condition that may require attention, and an unlit LED indicates that no
operation is occurring.
The LED flash rates are:
l SLOW FLASH = LED is on and off equally for 0.5 seconds.
l FAST FLASH = LED is on and off equally for 0.1 seconds.

Receiver mode Power LED Radio LED Satellite

Green Green LED
Amber

Receiver OFF OFF OFF OFF

Receiver ON: ON N/A N/A

Healthy power

Low power Fast flash N/A N/A

Tracking <4 SVs ON N/A Fast flash

Tracking >4 SVs ON N/A Slow flash

Logging data internally Flashes off every 3 N/A N/A

seconds

Transmitting internally N/A Flashes off when N/A

transmitting

Receiving valid data ON Slow flash N/A

packets

No data packets ON OFF N/A

Receiver in monitor ON Slow flash ON

NOTE – If a column shows “N/A”, that specific LED may or may not be on, but it is not relevant to
that particular mode.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 26

 3 General Operation

Charging the receiver's battery

WARNING – Charge and use the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery only in strict
accordance with the instructions. Charging or using the battery in unauthorized
equipment can cause an explosion or fire, and can result in personal injury and/or
equipment damage. To prevent injury or damage:
l Do not charge or use the battery if it appears to be damaged or leaking.
l Charge the Lithium-ion batteries only in a Trimble battery charger, such as the dual
battery charger P/N 61116-00 (black) or P/N 53018010 (grey), or the five-battery
system charger P/N (yellow/grey) or another charger specified for this battery. Be
sure to follow all instructions that are provided with the battery charger.
l Discontinue charging a battery that gives off extreme heat or a burning odor.
l Use the battery only in Trimble equipment that is specified to use it.
l Use the battery only for its intended use and according to the instructions in the
product documentation.

WARNING – Do not damage the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery. A damaged

battery can cause an explosion or fire, and can result in personal injury and/or
property damage.
To prevent injury or damage:
l Do not use or charge the battery if it appears to be damaged. Signs of damage
include, but are not limited to, discoloration, warping, and leaking battery fluid.
l Do not expose the battery to fire, high temperature, or direct sunlight.
l Do not immerse the battery in water.
l Do not use or store the battery inside a vehicle during hot weather.
l Do not drop or puncture the battery.
l Do not open the battery or short-circuit its contacts.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 27

 3 General Operation

WARNING – Avoid contact with the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery if it appears to

be leaking. Battery fluid is corrosive, and contact with it can result in personal injury
and/or property damage.
To prevent injury or damage:
l If the battery leaks, avoid contact with the battery fluid.
l If battery fluid gets into your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes with clean water and
seek medical attention. Do not rub your eyes!
l If battery fluid gets onto your skin or clothing, immediately use clean water to wash
off the battery fluid.

The receiver can be powered by its internal battery or by an external power source
connected to Port 1.
If an external power source is connected to Port 1, it is used in preference to the internal
battery. When there is no external power source connected, or if the external power
supply fails, the internal battery is used.
The receiver is supplied with two rechargeable Lithium-ion batteries, and a dual battery
charger. Charge the Lithium-ion batteries only in a Trimble battery charger, such as the
dual battery charger P/N 61116-00 (black) or P/N 53018010 (grey), or the five-battery
system charger P/N 49499-00 (yellow/grey) or another charger specified for this battery.
The two batteries charge sequentially and take approximately four hours each to fully
charge.
To protect the battery from deep discharge (5 V or less), the receiver is designed to switch
batteries or cease drawing power when the battery pack discharges to 5.9 V.
A battery that has reached the deep discharge level cannot be recharged and must be
replaced. The following recommendations provide optimal performance and extend the
life of your batteries:
l Fully charge all new batteries before use.
l Do not allow the batteries to discharge below 5 V.
l Keep all batteries on continuous charge when not in use. Batteries may be kept on
charge indefinitely without damage to the receiver or batteries.
l Do not store batteries in the receiver or external charger unless power is applied.
l If you must store the batteries, fully charge them before storing and then recharge
them at least every three months.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 28

 3 General Operation

Charging the battery

The rechargeable Lithium-ion battery is supplied partially charged. Charge the battery
completely before using it for the first time. If the battery has been stored for longer than
six months, charge it before use.
To protect the battery from deep discharge (5 V or less), the receiver is designed to switch
batteries or cease drawing power when the battery pack discharges to 5.9 V.
A battery that has reached the deep discharge level cannot be recharged and must be
replaced. The following recommendations provide optimal performance and extend the
life of your batteries:
l Fully charge all new batteries prior to use.
l Do not allow the batteries to discharge below 5 V.
l Keep all batteries on continuous charge when not in use. Batteries may be kept on
charge indefinitely without damage to the receiver or batteries.
l Do not store batteries in the receiver or external charger unless power is applied.
l If you must store the batteries, fully charge them before storing and then recharge
them at least every three months.

Storing the Lithium-ion battery

All battery types discharge over time when they are not being used. Batteries also
discharge faster in colder temperatures. If a Lithium-ion battery is to be stored for long
periods of time, make sure it is fully charged before storing and re-charged at least every
three months.

Disposing of the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery

Discharge the Lithium-ion battery before disposing of it. When disposing of the battery,
ensure that you do so in an environmentally sensitive manner. Adhere to any local and
national regulations concerning battery disposal or recycling.

Power output
The receiver does not supply power from either of its two ports.

Firmware
A receiver’s firmware is the program inside the receiver that controls receiver operations
and hardware. You can upgrade the firmware for the receiver using the Trimble
Installation Manager software that you can download from www.trimble.com.
For more information, refer to the Trimble Installation Manger Help.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 29

 3 General Operation

CAUTION – Downgrading the firmware deletes all application files on the receiver.

Logging data
You can log data internally or to a Trimble controller.

Logging internally
The receiver logs raw data on internal memory.
You can then use the Trimble Data Transfer utility or Trimble Business Center software to
transfer logged data files to the office computer.
NOTE – If you use the Data Transfer utility to download the internally-logged files, a DAT (*.dat) file
is automatically created after the download. DAT files do not contain GLONASS data. If you have
Trimble Business Center software, the T0x (T01 or T02) file that is stored on the receiver can be
directly downloaded. The T0x files contain any collected GLONASS data. Trimble Business Center
software can process GLONASS data, if you purchased that option.

CAUTION – The receiver allows for a maximum of 200 files on the internal memory.
The filenames must be in 8.3 format, otherwise, files copied to the internal memory may
cause data corruption or loss of data when logging.
Data is logged using the current logging settings configured in the receiver. Data files
logged internally are named automatically.

The receiver allows for a maximum of 200 files on the internal memory. The filenames must
be in 8.3 format, otherwise, files copied to the internal memory may cause data corruption
or loss of data when logging.
Data is logged using the current logging settings configured in the receiver. Data files
logged internally are named automatically.
To begin internal logging, you must use a Trimble controller running the Trimble Access
software. The receiver does not have a continuously running internal clock when it is
turned off, so you can conduct timed survey sessions only if the receiver is turned on and
connected to a power source.
When the internal memory is full, the receiver stops logging data, and the Power LED stops
flashing and remains on continuously. Existing data files are not overwritten. You can use
the Auto-delete option to override this action and automatically delete the oldest files
when the receiver memory is full. However, you should use this option with caution
because it can result in loss of data.
Approximate storage requirements for different logging rates are shown below. The values
shown are for a one-hour logging session with six satellites visible.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 30

 3 General Operation

Logging rate Memory required

10 Hz 2,588 KB

1 Hz 335 KB

5 seconds 87 KB

15 seconds 37 KB

Logging to a Trimble controller

When the receiver is connected to a Trimble controller running the Trimble Access
software, you can log GNSS data from the receiver to the controller, or to a data card
inserted in the controller. When you use a Trimble controller, you do not use the receiver’s
controls. Instead, you use the controller functions to set logging options, specify filenames,
and control when logging occurs.
Controller software job files and the corresponding raw data files can be transferred to an
office computer using the Trimble Data Transfer utility.
For more information on logging data from a receiver using a Trimble controller, refer to
the user guide for your particular controller.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 31

 4
Configuring the receiver
n Configuring the receiver in real time
n Configuring the receiver using application files
The receiver has no controls to change settings. To configure the receiver, do one of the
following:
l Configure the receiver in real time using the Trimble Access software.
l Apply the settings in an application file.
This chapter provides a brief overview of each of these methods and describes the
contents and use of application files.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 32

 4 Configuring the receiver

Configuring the receiver in real time

The Trimble Access software supports real-time configuration of the receiver.
When you configure the receiver in real time, use the software to specify which settings you
want to change. When you apply the changes, the receiver settings change immediately.
Any changes that you apply to the receiver are reflected in the current application file,
which is always present in the receiver. The current application file always records the most
recent configuration, so if you apply further changes (either in real time or using an
application file) the current file is updated and there is no record of the changes that you
applied originally.

Configuring the receiver using application files

The receiver Web Interface can be used to create and apply application files. Refer to the
receiver Web Interface help for more information.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 33

 5
Default Settings
n Default receiver settings
n Resetting the receiver to factory defaults
All receiver settings are stored in application files. The default application file is stored
permanently in the receiver, and contains the factory default settings for the receiver.
Whenever the receiver is reset to its factory defaults, the current settings (stored in the
current application file, current.cfg) are reset to the values in the default application file.
For more information, see Configuring the receiver using application files, page 33.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 34

 5 Default Settings

Default receiver settings

These settings are defined in the default application file.

Function Settings Factory default

SV Enable - All SVs enabled

General Controls Elevation mask 13°

PDOP mask 7

RTK positioning mode Low Latency

Motion Kinematic

Serial Port 1: Baud rate 38400

Format 8-None-1

Flow control None

Serial Port 2: Baud rate 38400

Format 8-None-1

Flow control None

Input Setup Station Any

NMEA/ASCII (all All ports Off

supported messages)

Streamed Output All types Off

Offset=00

RT17/Binary All ports Off

Reference Position Latitude 0°

Longitude 0°

Altitude 0.00 m HAE

Antenna Type Trimble R8s Model 1 internal

Height (true vertical) 0.00 m

Group All

Measurement method Bottom of mount

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 35

 5 Default Settings

Resetting the receiver to factory defaults

To reset the receiver to its factory defaults, press and hold down the receiver’s Power
button for 15 seconds.

Default behavior
The factory defaults specified above are applied whenever you start the receiver. If a power
up file is present in the receiver, its settings are applied immediately after the default
settings, so you can use a power up file to define your own set of defaults.

When you turn the receiver then logging settings are … and logging …
on and …

it is the first time that the the factory defaults does not begin
receiver has been used automatically

you have reset the receiver the factory defaults, or those in the does not begin
to its factory defaults power up file automatically

you have performed a full the factory defaults, because resetting does not begin
reset deletes any power up file automatically

Power up settings
When you turn off the receiver, any changes that you have made to logging settings are
lost and these settings are returned to the factory defaults. Other settings remain as
defined in the current file. The next time you turn on the receiver, the receiver checks for a
power up file and, if one is present, applies the settings in this file.

When you use the Power button to turn off and then logging set- and all other set-
then turn on the receiver and … tings are … tings are …

you changed the receiver settings by applying an the factory the last settings
application file defaults used

you changed the receiver settings using the factory the last settings
configuration software defaults used

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 36

 6
Cables and Connectors
n Port 1 and 2 connectors
n Power/serial data cables
This chapter describes the pinouts for the receiver standard and optional cables. This
information can be used to prepare special cables for connecting the receiver to devices
and instruments not supported by the standard and optional cables.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 37

 6 Cables and Connectors

Port 1 and 2 connectors

The following figures show the receiver serial ports and pinout connections.

Port 1:

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 38

 6 Cables and Connectors

Port 2:

Pin Port 1 – 7-pin Lemo Port 2 – DB-9

1 Signal ground DCD

2 Power ground RXD

3 TXD TXD

4 N/C DTR

5 N/C Signal ground

6 + Power in DSR

7 TRXD RTS

8 N/A CTS

9 N/A Ring indicator

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 39

 6 Cables and Connectors

Power/serial data cables

The data-I/O cable is supplied with the receiver.
The table below assumes that the cable is attached to the connector labeled Port 2:

DB-9 Female 9-pin DB-9 Female 9-pin

Pin Function Pin Function

1-6 DCD5_232 4 DTR5_232

2 RX5_232 3 TX5_232

3 TX5_232 2 RX5_232

4 DTR5_232 1-6 DCD5_232

5 GND 5 GND

7 RTS5_232 8 CTS5_232

8 CTS5_232 7 RTS5_232

9 no connection RI5_232 9 9

This data cable may be used for firmware upgrades and other computer functions with the
receiver. Power must be supplied to the receiver through Port 1, or from the internal
battery.
NOTE – This pinout information also applies to the power/serial data cable, which is optional for use
with the receiver. This cable can be used for firmware upgrades through Port 1, while also supplying
external power.
The table below assumes that the cable is attached to the connector labeled Port 1:

Lemo 0-shell connector 7- Dir- DE9-F connector 7 Cond Power lead 2 Cond
pin ection

Pin Function Pin Color Function Color Function

1 GND <--> 5 Brown Signal

ground

2 GND --> Black V-OUT

3 TX3_232 --> 2 Orange TXD

4 RTS/TXD --> 8 Blue RTS

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 40

 6 Cables and Connectors

Lemo 0-shell connector 7- Dir- DE9-F connector 7 Cond Power lead 2 Cond
pin ection

Pin Function Pin Color Function Color Function

5 CTS/RXD <-- 7 Green CTS

6 PWR_IN <-- Red Power IN

(+)

7 RX3_232 <-- 3 Yellow TXD

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 41

 7
NMEA Output Messages
n NMEA-0183 messages: Overview
n NMEA-0183 messages: Common message elements
n List of supported NMEA messages
This appendix describes the formats of the subset of NMEA-0183 messages that are
available for output by the receiver. For a copy of the NMEA-0183 Standard, go to the
National Marine Electronics Association website at www.nmea.org.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 42

 7 NMEA Output Messages

NMEA-0183 messages: Overview

When NMEA-0183 output is enabled, a subset of NMEA-0183 messages can be output to
external instruments and equipment connected to the receiver serial ports. These NMEA-
0183 messages let external devices use selected data collected or computed by the GNSS
receiver.
All messages conform to the NMEA-0183 version 3.01 format. All begin with $ and end with
a carriage return and a line feed. Data fields follow comma (,) delimiters and are variable in
length. Null fields still follow comma (,) delimiters, but contain no information.
An asterisk (*) delimiter and checksum value follow the last field of data contained in an
NMEA-0183 message. The checksum is the 8-bit exclusive of all characters in the message,
including the commas between fields, but not including the $ and asterisk delimiters. The
hexadecimal result is converted to two ASCII characters (0–9, A–F). The most significant
character appears first.
The following table summarizes the set of NMEA messages supported by the receiver.

Message Function

DP Dynamic positioning (proprietary Fugro message)

DTM Datum reference information

GBS GNSS satellite fault detection (RAIM support)

GGK Time, position, position type, DOP

GLL Position data: position fix, time of position fix, and status

GNS GNS Fix data

GRS GRS range residuals

GSA GPS DOP and active satellites

GST Position error statistics

GSV Number of SVs in view, PRN, elevation, azimuth, and SNR

HDT Heading from True North

LLQ Leica local position and quality

PJK Local coordinate position output

PJT Projection type

PTNL,AVR Time, yaw, tilt, range, mode, PDOP, and number of SVs for Moving Baseline

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 43

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Message Function

RTK

PTNL,BPQ Base station position and position quality indicator

PTNL,DG L-band corrections and beacon signal strength and related information

PTNL,GGK Time, position, position type, and DOP values

PTNL,PJK Time, position, position type, and DOP values

PTNL, REX Rover Extended output

PTNL,VGK Time, locator vector, type, and DOP values

PTNL,VHD Heading Information

RMC Position, Velocity, and Time

ROT Rate of turn

VTG Actual track made good and speed over ground

ZDA UTC day, month, and year, and local time zone offset

For a copy of the NMEA-0183 Standard, go to the National Marine Electronics Association
website at www.nmea.org.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 44

 7 NMEA Output Messages

NMEA-0183 messages: Common message elements

Each message contains:
l a message ID consisting of $GP followed by the message type. For example, the
message ID of the GGA message is $GPGGA.
l a comma.
l a number of fields, depending on the message type, separated by commas.
l an asterisk.
l a checksum value.
The following example shows a simple message with a message ID ($GPGGA), followed by
13 fields and a checksum value:
$GPGGA,172814.0,3723.46587704,N,12202.26957864,W,2,6,1.2,18.893,M,-
25.669,M,2.0,0031*4F

NMEA Message values

NMEA messages that the receiver generates contains the following values:

Value Description

Latitude and Latitude is represented as ddmm.mmmm and longitude is

Longitude represented as dddmm.mmmm, where:
l dd or ddd is degrees
l mm.mmmm is minutes and decimal fractions of minutes

Direction Direction (north, south, east, or west) is represented by a single

character: N , S , E , or W.

Time Time values are presented in Universal Time Coordinated (UTC) and
are represented as hhmmss.ss, where:
l hh is hours, from 00 through 23
l mm is minutes
l ss.ss is seconds with variable length decimal-fraction of seconds

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 45

 7 NMEA Output Messages

List of supported NMEA messages

NMEA-0183 message: DP (Dynamic Positioning)
Proprietary Fugro message
The resulting message is shorter than the maximum defined message length of 82
characters, even with mm level resolution in Latitude/Longitude.
$PFUGDP,GG,hhmmss.ss, ddmm.mmmmm,N, dddmm.mmmmm,E,
NN,Q,DD,aa.a,bb.b,ddd,rr.r
An example of the DP message string is:
$PFUGDP,GN,033615.00,3953.88002,N,10506.75324,W,13,9,FF,0.1,0.1,149,0.1*13

DP message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $PFUGDP

1 Two-character code for GPS (GP), GLONASS (GL) or GNSS (GN) data

2 UTC time (hhmmss.ss)

3-4 Latitude, in degrees and decimal minutes (ddmm.mmmmm) and Latitude sign
(N/S)

5-6 Longitude, in degrees and decimal minutes (dddmm.mmmmm) and Longitude

sign (E/W)

7 Total number of satellites (GPS + GLONASS)

8 DPVOA (UK00A) quality indicator1

9 DGNSS mode indicator (as NMEA standard for $ GNS)

10 Error ellipse standard deviation semi-major axis, in meters (aa.a)

11 Error ellipse standard deviation semi-minor axis, in meters (bb.b)

12 Direction of the error ellipse, in degrees

13 RMS value of the standard deviation of the range inputs to the navigation
process1

1 This quality indicator is defined in Guidelines on the use of DGPS in as a positioning reference
in DP Control Systems IMCA M141, dated Oct 1997 www.imca-

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 46

 7 NMEA Output Messages

int.com/publications/marine/imca.html.

NMEA-0183 message: DTM

The DTM message identifies the local geodetic datum and datum offsets from a reference
datum. This sentence is used to define the datum to which a position location, and
geographic locations in subsequent sentences, is referenced.
An example of the DTM message string is:
$GPDTM,W84,,0.0,N,0.0,W,0.0,W84*7D

DTM message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $GPDTM

1 Local datum code (CCC):

W84 – WGS-84
W72 – WGS-72
S85 – SGS85
P90 – PE90
999 – User-defined
IHO datum code

2 Local datum subdivision code (x)

3 Latitude offset, in minutes (x.x)

4 N/S (x)

5 Longitude offset, in minutes (x.x)

6 E/W (x)

7 Altitude offset, in meters (x.x)

8 Reference datum code (CCC):

W84 – WGS-84
W72 – WGS-72
S85 – SGS85
P90 – PE90

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 47

 7 NMEA Output Messages

NMEA-0183 message: GBS

GNSS satellite fault detection (RAIM support)
An example of the GBS message string is:
$GPGBS,015509.00,-0.031,-0.186,0.219,19,0.000,-0.354,6.972*4D

GBS message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $--GBS.
Talker ID can be:
GA: Galileo
GB: BeiDou
GP: GPS. To provide information specific to the GPS constellation when more
than one constellation is used for the differential position fix.
GL: GLONASS. To provide information specific to the GLONASS constellation
when more than one constellation is used for the differential position fix.
GN: Combined GNSS position. GNSS position fix from more than one
constellation, for example, GPS and GLONASS.
GQ: QZSS

1 UTC of position fix

2 Expected error in latitude, in meters, due to bias, with noise = 0

3 Expected error in longitude, in meters, due to bias, with noise = 0

4 Expected error in altitude, in meters, due to bias, with noise = 0

5 ID number of most likely failed satellite

6 Probability of missed detection of most likely failed satellite

7 Estimate of bias, in meters, on the most likely failed satellite

8 Standard deviation of bias estimate

9 The checksum data, always begins with *

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 48

 7 NMEA Output Messages

If NMEA-0183 version 4.10 is selected, the 9th, 10th, and 11th fields become:

Field Meaning

9 System ID based on:

GPS 1
GLONASS 2
Galileo 3
BeiDou 4
QZSS 0

10 Signal ID based on:

GPS 1
GLONASS 1
Galileo 7
BeiDou Null
QZSS Null

11 The checksum data, always begins with *

NMEA-0183 message: GGA

Time, position, and fix related data
An example of the GBS message string is:
$GPGGA,172814.0,3723.46587704,N,12202.26957864,W,2,6,1.2,18.893,M,-25.669,M,2.0
0031*4F
NOTE – The data string exceeds the NMEA standard length.

GGA message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $GPGGA

1 UTC of position fix

2 Latitude

3 Direction of latitude:
N: North
S: South

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 49

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

4 Longitude

5 Direction of longitude:
E: East
W: West

6 GPS Quality indicator:

0: Fix not valid
1: GPS fix
2: Differential GPS fix (DGNSS), SBAS, OmniSTAR VBS, Beacon, RTX in GVBS mode
3: Not applicable
4: RTK Fixed, xFill
5: RTK Float, OmniSTAR XP/HP, Location RTK, RTX
6: INS Dead reckoning

7 Number of SVs in use, range from 00 through to 24+

8 HDOP

9 Orthometric height (MSL reference)

10 M: unit of measure for orthometric height is meters

11 Geoid separation

12 M: geoid separation measured in meters

13 Age of differential GPS data record, Type 1 or Type 9. Null field when DGPS is not
used.

14 Reference station ID, range 0000-4095. A null field when any reference station ID
is selected and no corrections are received. See table below for a description of
the field values.

15 The checksum data, always begins with *

NOTE – If a user-defined geoid model, or an inclined plane is loaded into the receiver, then the
height output in the NMEA GGA string is always the orthometric height (height above a geoid). The
orthometric height is output even if no user-defined geoid is loaded (there is a simplified default
geoid in the receiver), or if a user-defined geoid is loaded, or if an inclined plane is used.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 50

 7 NMEA Output Messages

When using one of the MSS (Mobile Satellite Services), the Reference Station ID field
indicates the following services:

Reference Station ID Service

0002 CenterPoint or ViewPoint RTX

0005 RangePoint RTX

0006 FieldPoint RTX

0100 VBS

1000 HP

1001 HP/XP (Orbits)

1002 HP/G2 (Orbits)

1008 XP (GPS)

1012 G2 (GPS)

1013 G2 (GPS/GLONASS)

1014 G2 (GLONASS)

1016 HP/XP (GPS)

1020 HP/G2 (GPS)

1021 HP/G2 (GPS/GLONASS)

NMEA-0183 message: GLL

Position data: position fix, time of position fix, and status
An example of the GLL message string is:
$GPGLL,3953.88008971,N,10506.75318910,W,034138.00,A,D*7A

GLL message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $GPGLL

1 Latitude in dd mm,mmmm format (0-7 decimal places)

2 Direction of latitude N: North S: South

3 Longitude in ddd mm,mmmm format (0-7 decimal places)

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 51

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

4 Direction of longitude E: East W: West

5 UTC of position in hhmmss.ss format

6 Status indicator:
A: Data valid
V: Data not valid
This value is set to V (Data not valid) for all Mode Indicator values except A
(Autonomous) and D (Differential)

7 The checksum data, always begins with *

Mode indicator:
A: Autonomous mode
D: Differential mode
E: Estimated (dead reckoning) mode
M: Manual input mode
S: Simulator mode
N: Data not valid

NMEA-0183 message: GNS

GNSS fix data
GNSS capable receivers will always output this message with the GN talker ID.
GNSS capable receivers will also output this message with other talker ID's when using
more than one constellation for the position fix.
An example of the GNS message output from a GNSS capable receiver is:
$GNGNS,014035.00,4332.69262,S,17235.48549,E,RR,13,0.9,25.63,11.24,,U,*70<CR><LF>
$GPGNS,014035.00,,,,,,8,,,,1.0,23*76<CR><LF>
$GLGNS,014035.00,,,,,,5,,,,1.0,23*67<CR><LF>

GNS message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $--GNS
Talker ID can be:

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 52

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

GA: Galileo
GB: BeiDou
GP: GPS
GL: GLONASS. When more than one constellation is used.
GN: Combined GNSS position, for example, GPS and GLONASS.
GQ: QZSS

1 UTC of position fix

2 Latitude

3 Direction of latitude:
N: North
S: South

4 Longitude

5 Direction of longitude:
E: East
W: West

6 Mode indicator:
l Variable character field with one character for each supported constellation.
l First character is for GPS.
l Second character is for GLONASS.
l Third character is Galileo.
l Fourth character is for BeiDou.
l Fifth character is for QZSS.
l Subsequent characters will be added for new constellations.
Each character will be one of the following:
N = No fix. Satellite system not used in position fix, or fix not valid
A = Autonomous. Satellite system used in non-differential mode in position fix
D = Differential (including all OmniSTAR services). Satellite system used in
differential mode in position fix

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 53

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

P = Precise. Satellite system used in precision mode. Precision mode is defined

as: no deliberate degradation (such as Selective Availability) and higher
resolution code (P-code) is used to compute position fix
R = Real Time Kinematic. Satellite system used in RTK mode with fixed integers
F = Float RTK. Satellite system used in real-time kinematic mode with floating
integers
E = Estimated (dead reckoning) Mode
M = Manual Input Mode
S = Simulator Mode

7 Number of SVs in use, range 00–99

8 HDOP calculated using all the satellites (GPS, GLONASS, and any future satellites)
used in computing the solution reported in each GNS sentence.

9 Orthometric height in meters (MSL reference)

10 Geoidal separation in meters – The difference between the earth ellipsoid

surface and mean-sea-level (geoid) surface defined by the reference datum
used in the position solution.
“-” = mean-sea-level surface below ellipsoid.

11 Age of differential data – Null if talker ID is GN, additional GNS messages follow
with Age of differential data.

12 Reference station ID1 , range 0000-4095

– Null if Talker ID is GN. Additional GNS messages follow with Reference station
ID.

13 This field is added when the IEC61162-1:2010/NMEA 0183 V4.10 option is selected
in the NMEA I/O Configuration page. It shows if a position is safe (S) or unsafe
(U).

14 The checksum data, always begins with *

NOTE – If a user-defined geoid model, or an inclined plane is loaded into the receiver, then the
height output in the NMEA GNS string is always the orthometric height (height above a geoid). The
orthometric height is output even if no user-defined geoid is loaded (there is a default geoid in the
receiver), or if a user-defined geoid is loaded, or if an inclined plane is used.
1

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 54

 7 NMEA Output Messages

When using OmniSTAR services, the Reference Station ID indicates the following services:
VBS 100=VBS; 1000=HP; 1001 = HP/XP (Orbits) ; 1002 = HP/G2 (Orbits); 1008 = XP (GPS); 1012
= G2 (GPS); 1013 = G2 (GPS/GLONASS); 1014 = G2 (GLONASS); 1016 = HP/XP (GPS); 1020 =
HP/G2 (GPS) ; 1021 = HP/G2 (GPS/GLONASS).

NMEA-0183 message: GRS

GRS range residuals
The GRS message is used to support the Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring
(RAIM).
NOTE – Because the contents of this NMEA message do not change significantly during a one-
second interval, the receiver outputs this message at a maximum rate of 1 Hz.
An example of the GRS message string is:
$GPGRS,220320.0,0,-0.8,-0.2,-0.1, -0.2,0.8,0.6,,,,,,1,*55

GRS message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $GPGRS
Talker ID can be:
GA: Galileo
GB: BeiDou
GP: GPS. To provide information specific to the GPS constellation when more
than one constellation is used for the differential position fix.
GL: GLONASS. To provide information specific to the GLONASS constellation
when more than one constellation is used for the differential position fix.
GN: Combined GNSS position. GNSS position fix from more than one
constellation, for example, GPS and GLONASS.
GQ: QZSS

1 UTC of GGA position fix

2 Residuals
0: Residuals used to calculate position given in the matching GGA line
1: Residuals recomputed after the GGA position was computed

3–14 Range residuals for satellites used in the navigation solution, in meters

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 55

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

15 Satellite System ID: GP(1), GL(2), GA(3), GB(4), GQ(0)

NMEA-0183 message: GSA

GPS DOP and active satellites
An example of the GSA message string is:
$GNGSA,A,3,21,5,29,25,12,10,26,2,,,,,1.2,0.7,1.0*27
$GNGSA,A,3,65,67,80,81,82,88,66,,,,,,1.2,0.7,1.0*20

GSA message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $GNGSA

1 Mode 1, M = manual, A = automatic

2 Mode 2, Fix type, 1 = not available, 2 = 2D, 3 = 3D

3 PRN number, 01 through 32 for GPS, 33 through 64 for SBAS, 64+ for GLONASS

4 PDOP: 0.5 through 99.9

5 HDOP: 0.5 through 99.9

6 VDOP: 0.5 through 99.9

7 The checksum data, always begins with *

If NMEA-0183 version 4.10 is selected, the 7th and 8th fields become:

Field Meaning

7 System ID based on:

GPS 1
GLONASS 2
Galileo 3
BeiDou 4
QZSS 0

8 The checksum data, always begins with *

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 56

 7 NMEA Output Messages

NMEA-0183 message: GST

Position error statistics
An example of the GST message string is:
$GPGST,172814.0,0.006,0.023,0.020,273.6,0.023,0.020,0.031*6A
The Talker ID ($--) will vary depending on the satellite system used for the position solution:
l $GP - GPS only
l $GL - GLONASS only
l $GN - Combined

GST message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $GPGST

1 UTC of position fix

2 RMS value of the pseudorange residuals; includes carrier phase residuals

during periods of RTK (float) and RTK (fixed) processing

3 Error ellipse semi-major axis 1 sigma error, in meters

4 Error ellipse semi-minor axis 1 sigma error, in meters

5 Error ellipse orientation, degrees from true north

6 Latitude 1 sigma error, in meters

7 Longitude 1 sigma error, in meters

8 Height 1 sigma error, in meters

9 The checksum data, always begins with *

NMEA-0183 message: GSV

Satellite information
The GSV message string identifies the number of SVs in view, the PRN numbers, elevations,
azimuths, and SNR values. Example GSV message strings are:
$GPGSV,8,1,25,21,44,141,47,15,14,049,44,6,31,255,46,3,25,280,44*75
$GPGSV,8,2,25,18,61,057,48,22,68,320,52,27,34,268,47,24,32,076,45*76
$GPGSV,8,3,25,14,51,214,49,19,23,308,46*7E

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 57

 7 NMEA Output Messages

$GPGSV,8,4,25,51,44,183,49,46,41,169,43,48,36,220,45*47
$GLGSV,8,5,25,82,49,219,52,76,22,051,41,83,37,316,51,67,57,010,51*6C
$GLGSV,8,6,25,77,24,108,44,81,10,181,46,78,1,152,34,66,18,060,45*50
$GLGSV,8,7,25,68,37,284,50*5C
$GBGSV,8,8,25,111,35,221,47,112,4,179,39,114,48,290,48*11

GSV message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID

1 Total number of messages of this type in this cycle

2 Message number

3 Total number of SVs visible

4 SV PRN number

5 Elevation, in degrees, 90° maximum

6 Azimuth, degrees from True North, 000° through 359°

7 SNR, 00 through 99 dB (null when not tracking)

8–11 Information about second SV, same format as fields 4 through 7

12–15 Information about third SV, same format as fields 4 through 7

16–19 Information about fourth SV, same format as fields 4 through 7

20 The checksum data, always begins with *

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 58

 7 NMEA Output Messages

NOTE –
$GPGSV indicates GPS and SBAS satellites. If the PRN is greater than 32, this indicates an
SBAS PRN, 87 should be added to the GSV PRN number to determine the SBAS PRN
number.
$GLGSV indicates GLONASS satellites. 64 should be subtracted from the GSV PRN number
to determine the GLONASS PRN number.
$GBGSV indicates BeiDou satellites. 100 should be subtracted from the GSV PRN number
to determine the BeiDou PRN number.
$GAGSV indicates Galileo satellites.
$GQGSV indicates QZSS satellites.

NMEA-0183 message: HDT

Heading from True North
NOTE – The heading computation in this message is computed from the moving baseline vector,
which requires a two-antenna system.
An example of the HDT string is:
$GPHDT,123.456,T*00

Heading from true north message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $GPHDT

1 Heading in degrees

2 T: Indicates heading relative to True North

3 The checksum data, always begins with *

NMEA-0183 message: LLQ

Leica local position and quality
An example of the LLQ message string is:
$GPLLQ,034137.00,210712,,M,,M,3,15,0.011,,M*15

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $GPLLQ

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 59

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

1 hhmmss.ss – UTC time of position

2 ddmmyy – UTC date

3 xxx.xxx – Grid easting (meters)

4 M – Meter, fixed text

5 xxxx.xxxx – Grid northing (meters)

6 M – Meter, fixed text

7 x – GPS quality. 0 = not valid. 1 = GPS Nav Fix. 2 = DGPS Fix. 3 = RTK Fix.

8 x – Number of satellites used in computation

9 xx.xx – Position quality (meters)

10 xxxx.xxxx – Height (meters)

11 M – Meter, fixed text

*hh – checksum

<CR> – carriage return

<LF> – Line feed

NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,AVR

Time, yaw, tilt/roll, range for moving baseline RTK
NOTE – The heading computation in this message is computed from the moving baseline vector,
which requires a two-antenna system.
An example of the PTNL,AVR message string is:
$PTNL,AVR,212405.20,+52.1531,Yaw,-0.0806,Tilt,,,12.575,3,1.4,16*39
$PTNL,AVR,212604.30,+52.1800,Yaw,,,-0.0807,Roll,12.579,3,1.4,16*21

AVR message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $PTNL,AVR

1 UTC of vector fix

2 Yaw angle, in degrees

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 60

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

3 Yaw

4 Tilt angle, in degrees

5 Tilt

6 Reserved

7 Reserved

8 Range, in meters (between antennas)

9 GPS quality indicator:

0: Fix not available or invalid
1: Autonomous GPS fix
2: Differential carrier phase solution RTK (Float)
3: Differential carrier phase solution RTK (Fix)
4: Differential code-based solution, DGPS

10 PDOP

11 Number of satellites used in solution

12 The checksum data, always begins with *

NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,BPQ

Base station position and quality indicator
This message describes the base station position and its quality. It is used when the
moving base antenna position and quality are required on one serial port (along with a
heading message) from a receiver in heading mode.
An example of the PTNL,BPQ message string is:
$PTNL,BPQ,224445.06,021207,3723.09383914,N,12200.32620132,W,EHT-5.923,M,5*

BPQ message fields

Field Meaning

0 Talker ID

1 BPQ

2 UTC time of position fix, in hhmmss.ss format. Hours must be two numbers, so

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 61

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

may be padded, for example, 7 is shown as 07.

3 UTC date of position fix, in ddmmyy format. Day must be two numbers, so may
be padded, for example, 8 is shown as 08.

4 Latitude, in degrees and decimal minutes (ddmm.mmmmmmm)

5 Direction of latitude:
N: North
S: South

6 Longitude, in degrees and decimal minutes (dddmm.mmmmmmm). Should

contain 3 digits of ddd.

7 Direction of longitude:
E: East
W: West

8 Height Ellipsoidal height of fix (antenna height above ellipsoid). Must start with
EHT.

9 M: ellipsoidal height is measured in meters

10 GPS quality indicator:

0: Fix not available or invalid
1: Autonomous GPS fix
2: Differential SBAS, or OmniSTAR VBS
4: RTK Fixed
5: OmniSTAR XP, OmniSTAR HP, CenterPoint RTX, Float RTK, or Location RTK

11 The checksum data, always begins with *

NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,GGK

Time, position, position type, DOP
An example of the PTNL,GGK message string is:
$PTNL,GGK,102939.00,051910,5000.97323841,N,00827.62010742,E,5,09,1.9,EHT150.790,M*
73

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 62

 7 NMEA Output Messages

PTNL,GGK message fields

Field Meaning

0 Talker ID $PTNL

1 Message ID GGK

2 UTC time of position fix, in hhmmss.ss format. Hours must be two numbers, so
may be padded. For example, 7 is shown as 07.

3 UTC date of position fix, in ddmmyy format. Day must be two numbers, so may
be padded. For example, 8 is shown as 08.

4 Latitude, in degrees and decimal minutes (dddmm.mmmmmmm)

5 Direction of latitude:
N: North
S: South

6 Longitude, in degrees and decimal minutes (dddmm.mmmmmmm). Should

contain three digits of ddd.

7 Direction of longitude:
E: East
W: West

8 GPS Quality indicator:

0: Fix not available or invalid
1: Autonomous GPS fix
2: RTK float solution
3: RTK fix solution
4: Differential, code phase only solution (DGPS)
5: SBAS solution – WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS
6: RTK float or RTK location 3D Network solution
7: RTK fixed 3D Network solution
8: RTK float or RTK location 2D in a Network solution
9: RTK fixed 2D Network solution
10: OmniSTAR HP/XP solution
11: OmniSTAR VBS solution

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 63

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

12: Location RTK solution

13: Beacon DGPS
14: CenterPoint RTX
15: xFill

9 Number of satellites in fix

10 Dilution of Precision of fix (DOP)

11 Ellipsoidal height of fix (antenna height above ellipsoid). Must start with EHT.

12 M: ellipsoidal height is measured in meters

13 The checksum data, always begins with *

NOTE – The PTNL,GGK message is longer than the NMEA-0183 standard of 80 characters.
NOTE – Even if a user-defined geoid model, or an inclined plane is loaded into the receiver, then the
height output in the NMEA GGK string is always an ellipsoid height, for example, EHT24.123.

NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,PJK

Local coordinate position output
Some examples of the PTNL,PJK message string are:
$PTNL,PJK,202831.50,011112,+805083.350,N,+388997.346,E,10,09,1.5,GHT+25.478,M*77
$PTNL,PJK,010717.00,081796,+732646.511,N,+1731051.091,E,1,05,2.7,EHT+28.345,M*7C

PTNL,PJK message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $PTNL,PJK

1 UTC of position fix

2 Date

3 Northing, in meters

4 Direction of Northing will always be N (North)

5 Easting, in meters

6 Direction of Easting will always be E (East)

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 64

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

7 GPS Quality indicator:

0: Fix not available or invalid
1: Autonomous GPS fix
2: RTK float solution
3: RTK fix solution
4: Differential, code phase only solution (DGPS)
5: SBAS solution – WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS
6: RTK Float 3D network solution
7: RTK Fixed 3D network solution
8: RTK Float 2D network solution
9: RTK Fixed 2D network solution
10: OmniSTAR HP/XP solution
11: OmniSTAR VBS solution
12: Location RTK
13: Beacon DGPS
14: CenterPoint RTX
15: xFill

8 Number of satellites in fix

9 DOP of fix

10 Height of Antenna Phase Center (see Note below)

11 M: height is measured in meters

12 The checksum data, always begins with *

NOTE – The PTNL,PJK message is longer than the NMEA-0183 standard of 80 characters.
NOTE – If a user-defined geoid model, or an inclined plane is loaded into the receiver, then the
NMEA PJK string will always report the orthometric height (the field starts with the letters GHT). If the
latitude/longitude of the receiver is outside the user-defined geoid model bounds, then the height is
shown as ellipsoidal height (the field starts with the letters EHT).
NOTE – If the receiver does not have an application file, this string returns nothing in fields 3, 4, 5, 6,
or 10.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 65

 7 NMEA Output Messages

NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,PJT

Projection type
An example of the PTNL,PJT message string is:
$PTNL,PJT,NAD83(Conus),California Zone 4 0404,*51

PTNL,PJT message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $PTNL,PJT

1 Coordinate system name (can include multiple words)

2 Project name (can include multiple words)

3 The checksum data, always begins with *

NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,VGK

Vector information
An example of the PTNL,VGK message string is:
$PTNL,VGK,160159.00,010997,-0000.161,00009.985,-0000.002,3,07,1,4,M*0B

PTNL,VGK message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $PTNL,VGK

1 UTC of vector in hhmmss.ss format

2 Date in mmddyy format

3 East component of vector, in meters

4 North component of vector, in meters

5 Up component of vector, in meters

6 GPS Quality indicator:

0: Fix not available or invalid
1: Autonomous GPS fix
2: RTK float solution
3: RTK fix solution

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 66

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

4: Differential, code phase only solution (DGPS)

5: SBAS solution – WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS
6: RTK Float 3D network solution
7: RTK Fixed 3D network solution
8: RTK Float 2D network solution
9: RTK Fixed 2D network solution
10: OmniSTAR HP/XP solution
11: OmniSTAR VBS solution
12: Location RTK
13: Beacon DGPS
14: CenterPoint RTX
15: xFill

7 Number of satellites if fix solution

8 DOP of fix

9 M: Vector components are in meters

10 The checksum data, always begins with *

NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,VHD

Heading information
NOTE – The heading computation in this message is computed from the moving baseline vector,
which requires a two-antenna system.
An example of the PTNL,VHD message string is:
$PTNL,VHD,030556.00,093098,187.718,-22.138,-76.929,-5.015,0.033,0.006,3,07,2.4,M*22

PTNL,VHD message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $PTNL

1 VHD

2 UTC of position in hhmmss.ss format

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 67

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

3 Date in mmddyy format

4 Azimuth

5 Rate of change of azimuth = azimuth/time

6 Vertical angle

7 Rate of change of vertical angle = vertical/time

8 Range

9 Rate of change of range between antenna = range/time

10 GPS Quality indicator:

0: Fix not available or invalid
1: Autonomous GPS fix
2: RTK float solution
3: RTK fix solution
4: Differential, code phase only solution (DGPS)
5: SBAS solution – WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS
6: RTK Float 3D network solution
7: RTK Fixed 3D network solution
8: RTK Float 2D network solution
9: RTK Fixed 2D network solution
10: OmniSTAR HP/XP solution
11: OmniSTAR VBS solution
12: Location RTK
13: Beacon DGPS
14: CenterPoint RTX
15: xFill

11 Number of satellites used in solution

12 PDOP

13 M

14 The checksum data, always begins with *

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 68

 7 NMEA Output Messages

NMEA-0183 message: RMC

Position, velocity, and time
NOTE – The heading computation in this message is derived from consecutive positions. For
heading using a moving baseline system, see NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,AVR, page 60.
The RMC string is:
$GPRMC,123519,A,4807.038,N,01131.000,E,022.4,084.4,230394,003.1,W*6A

GPRMC message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $--RMC
Talker ID can be:
GP: GPS only
GN: More than one constellation

1 UTC of position fix

2 Status A=active or V=void

3 Latitude

4 Longitude

5 Speed over the ground in knots

6 Track angle in degrees (True)

7 Date

8 Magnetic variation, in degrees

9 The checksum data, always begins with *

NMEA-0183 message: ROT

Rate and direction of turn
NOTE – The heading computation in this message is derived from consecutive positions. For
heading using a moving baseline system, see NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,AVR, page 60.
An example of the ROT string is:
$GPROT,35.6,A*4E

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 69

 7 NMEA Output Messages

ROT message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $GPROT

1 Rate of turn, degrees/minutes, “–” indicates bow turns to port

2 A: Valid data
V: Invalid data

3 The checksum data, always begins with *

NMEA-0183 message: VTG

Track made good and speed over ground
NOTE – The heading computation in this message is derived from consecutive positions. For
heading using a moving baseline system, see NMEA-0183 message: PTNL,AVR, page 60.
An example of the VTG message string is:
$GPVTG,140.88,T,,M,8.04,N,14.89,K,D*05

VTG message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $GPVTG

1 Track made good (degrees true)

2 T: track made good is relative to true north

3 Track made good (degrees magnetic)

4 M: track made good is relative to magnetic north

5 Speed, in knots

6 N: speed is measured in knots

7 Speed over ground in kilometers/hour (kph)

8 K: speed over ground is measured in kph

9 Mode indicator:
A: Autonomous mode
D: Differential mode

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 70

 7 NMEA Output Messages

Field Meaning

E: Estimated (dead reckoning) mode

M: Manual Input mode
S: Simulator mode
N: Data not valid

10 The checksum data, always begins with *

NMEA-0183 message: ZDA

UTC day, month, and year, and local time zone offset
An example of the ZDA message string is:
$GPZDA,172809.456,12,07,1996,00,00*45

ZDA message fields

Field Meaning

0 Message ID $--ZDA
Talker ID can be:
GP: GPS only
GN: More than one constellation

1 UTC

2 Day, ranging between 01 and 31

3 Month, ranging between 01 and 12

4 Year

5 Local time zone offset from GMT, ranging from 00 through ±13 hours

6 Local time zone offset from GMT, ranging from 00 through 59 minutes

7 The checksum data, always begins with *

Fields 5 and 6 together yield the total offset. For example, if field 5 is -5 and field 6 is +15,
local time is 5 hours and 15 minutes earlier than GMT.

1This is the same as the definition in the GST message in the NMEA 183 Standard For Interfacing Marine
Electronic Devices from version 2.20, dated January 1 1997 www.nmea.org/0183.htm.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 71

 8
RTCM Output
n RTCM Output: Generated messages
n Message scheduling

RTCM Output: Generated messages

Messages that are generated when you select a specific RTCM version are shown in the
following table. For details of the individual messages, refer to the RTCM documentation at
www.rtcm.org.

Selection Message

Version 2 1 3 22 59

USCG, 9-3 3 9-3

RTCM/RTK, 2.2+2.3 1 3 18 19 22 23 24 59

RTK Only, 2.2+2.3 3 18 19 22 23 24 59

RTCM/RTK, 2.3 18 19 23 24

RTK Only, 2.3 18 19 22

RTCM/RTK, 2.2 1 3 18 19 22 59

RTK Only, 2.2 3 18 19 22 59

RTCM/RTK, 2.1 1 3 18 19 22 59

RTK Only, 2.1 3 18 19 22 59

RTCM/RTK, 3.x 1004 1006 1008 1012 1013 1033

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 72

 8 RTCM Output

Message scheduling
The following table shows the frequency at which messages are generated when they are
enabled in a base receiver:

Type Frequency

1 Every second

3 The tenth second after the first measurement, then every ten seconds after
that

9-3 Every second

18 Every second

19 Every second

22 The fifth second after the first measurement, then every ten seconds after
that

23 The fourth second after the first measurement, then every ten seconds after
that

24 The fourth second after the first measurement, then every ten seconds after
that

59-sub, The fifth second after the first measurement, then every ten seconds after
13 that

1004 Every second

1006 Every ten seconds, offset by two seconds

1008 Every ten seconds, offset by one second

1012 Every second

1013 Every ten seconds, offset by three seconds

1033 Every ten seconds

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 73

 9
Troubleshooting
n Troubleshooting LED conditions
n Troubleshooting receiver issues
This chapter provides a brief overview problems and causes. Please read this section
before you contact Technical support, page 15.

Troubleshooting LED conditions

An LED that is flashing quickly indicates a condition that may require attention, and an unlit
LED indicates that no operation is occurring. The following table describes some LED
conditions, possible causes, and how to solve them.

The SV Tracking LED is lit solidly and the Logging/Memory LED is flashing slowly

Possible cause Solution

The receiver is in Turn on or turn off the receiver. If that does not fix the problem,
Monitor mode, ready load the latest version of the firmware using Trimble Installation
for new firmware to Manager. See Upgrading the receiver firmware, page 1.
be loaded or new
options to be added.

The SV Tracking LED is flashing rapidly

Possible cause Solution

The receiver is tracking fewer Wait until the SV Tracking LED is flashing slowly.
than four satellites.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 74

 9 Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting receiver issues

This section describes some possible receiver issues, possible causes, and how to solve
them.

The receiver does not turn on

Possible cause Solution

External power Check the charge on the external power supply, and check the
is too low. fuse if applicable. If required, replace the battery.

Internal power Do the following:

is too low. l Check the charge on the internal batteries and replace if
required.
l Ensure battery contacts are clean.

External power Check that the Lemo connection is seated properly.

is not properly
connected. Check for broken or bent pins in the connector.

Faulty external Try a different cable.

power cable.
Check pinouts with multimeter to ensure internal wiring is
intact.

The receiver does not log data

Possible cause Solution

Insufficient Delete old files using the Trimble Access software, or by holding
internal down the Power button for 30 seconds. For more information, see
memory. Button functions, page 25.

The receiver is Wait until the SV Tracking LED is flashing slowly.

tracking fewer
than four
satellites.

The receiver is not responding

Possible cause Solution

The receiver Turn off the receiver and then turn it back on again. For more
needs a soft information, see Button functions, page 25.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 75

 9 Troubleshooting

Possible cause Solution

reset.

The receiver Press the Power button for 30 seconds. For more information, see
needs a full Button functions, page 25.
reset.

Reference receiver is not broadcasting

Possible cause Solution

Port settings between Use the Trimble Access software to connect directly to
reference receiver and radio the radio and change the port settings. Try to connect to
are incorrect. the radio through the receiver to ensure that they are
communicating.

Faulty cable between receiver Try a different cable.

and radio.
Examine the ports for missing pins.

Use a multimeter to check pinouts.

No power to radio. If the radio has its own power supply, check the charge
and connections.

The rover receiver is not receiving radio

Possible cause Solution

Reference receiver is not Ensure the reference base GNSS receiver is set up,
broadcasting. powered, and transmitting GNSS corrections.

Incorrect over air baud rates Connect to the roving receiver’s radio and check to
between reference and rover. ensure it has the same setting as the reference receiver.

Incorrect port settings If the radio is receiving data (the Power LED is flashing)
between roving external radio and the receiver is not getting radio communications, use
and receiver. the Trimble Access software to check that the port
settings are correct.

The cellular modem does not Disable flow control on the modem.
have hardware flow control
Use a special cable. For more information, refer to the
enabled.
document Using Cellular and CDPD Modems for RTK,
which is available from your Trimble Reseller.

Trimble R8s GNSS Receiver User Guide | 76