Uploaded September 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Here we walk through a portable Starlink setup designed for GNSS field work and surveying. When working in remote areas without cell coverage, having a reliable internet connection is essential for high precision GNSS and RTK corrections.
You’ll learn:
• How to set up a compact Starlink terminal in a briefcase for portability
• Power options using lithium iron phosphate batteries and simple barrel jack connectors
• Tips to avoid voltage drop issues and maximize runtime in the field
• Cost breakdown, including the affordable $5/month Starlink “standby” plan that still provides more than enough bandwidth for RTK data
The briefcase is ~11lbs or 5kg.
Wiring Harness Schematics: cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/7/e/2/5/2/SparkFun_Starlink_Wiring_Harness.pdf
With this setup, you can achieve an RTK fix and maintain connectivity almost anywhere in the world, making it a powerful tool for surveyors, researchers, and anyone doing high precision GNSS work off the grid.
Everything you need to know about GNSS products and Surveying at SparkPNT: sparkfun.com/pnt
Products Shown:
SparkFun RTK Torch: sparkfun.com/sparkfun-rtk-torch.html
Telescopic Surveying Pole: sparkfun.com/telescopic-surveying-pole.html
The cheap/easy type of cables, no carrying case
Barrel Connector to Alligator Clips: amazon.com/dp/B07F5YS9L3
Barrel Connector to F2 Battery Tabs: amazon.com/dp/B0CMQQVMT2
The parts to build the briefcase shown in the video
Hard Sided Carrying case for Starlink Roam: amazon.com/dp/B0DGXX1NZ2
LiFePO4 12.8V 10Ah Battery: amazon.com/10Ah-LiFePO4-Battery-Rechargeable-Lithium/dp/B0DG2S1NPS
Inline Fuse Holder: amazon.com/Upgraded-Waterproof-Standard-YNZDRWA-Holders/dp/B0D7D25G62
Battery Charger: amazon.com/dp/B08R655YMT
Latching SPDT Switch with LED: amazon.com/Latching-Stainless-Waterproof-Pre-Wired-Self-Locking/dp/B0DSP2DPS1
Panel Mount 5.5x2.1mm Charging Jack: amazon.com/Maxmoral-Connector-Waterproof-Threaded-Mounting/dp/B07S5ZLFDG
Panel Mount Power Meter: amazon.com/Exqutoo-Digital-Voltmeter-Electronic-Experiments/dp/B0CQC6781P
Here we walk through a portable Starlink setup designed for GNSS field work and surveying. When working in remote areas without cell coverage, having a reliable internet connection is essential for high precision GNSS and RTK corrections.
You’ll learn:
• How to set up a compact Starlink terminal in a briefcase for portability
• Power options using lithium iron phosphate batteries and simple barrel jack connectors
• Tips to avoid voltage drop issues and maximize runtime in the field
• Cost breakdown, including the affordable $5/month Starlink “standby” plan that still provides more than enough bandwidth for RTK data
The briefcase is ~11lbs or 5kg.
Wiring Harness Schematics: cdn.sparkfun.com/assets/7/e/2/5/2/SparkFun_Starlink_Wiring_Harness.pdf
With this setup, you can achieve an RTK fix and maintain connectivity almost anywhere in the world, making it a powerful tool for surveyors, researchers, and anyone doing high precision GNSS work off the grid.
Everything you need to know about GNSS products and Surveying at SparkPNT: sparkfun.com/pnt
Products Shown:
SparkFun RTK Torch: sparkfun.com/sparkfun-rtk-torch.html
Telescopic Surveying Pole: sparkfun.com/telescopic-surveying-pole.html
The cheap/easy type of cables, no carrying case
Barrel Connector to Alligator Clips: amazon.com/dp/B07F5YS9L3
Barrel Connector to F2 Battery Tabs: amazon.com/dp/B0CMQQVMT2
The parts to build the briefcase shown in the video
Hard Sided Carrying case for Starlink Roam: amazon.com/dp/B0DGXX1NZ2
LiFePO4 12.8V 10Ah Battery: amazon.com/10Ah-LiFePO4-Battery-Rechargeable-Lithium/dp/B0DG2S1NPS
Inline Fuse Holder: amazon.com/Upgraded-Waterproof-Standard-YNZDRWA-Holders/dp/B0D7D25G62
Battery Charger: amazon.com/dp/B08R655YMT
Latching SPDT Switch with LED: amazon.com/Latching-Stainless-Waterproof-Pre-Wired-Self-Locking/dp/B0DSP2DPS1
Panel Mount 5.5x2.1mm Charging Jack: amazon.com/Maxmoral-Connector-Waterproof-Threaded-Mounting/dp/B07S5ZLFDG
Panel Mount Power Meter: amazon.com/Exqutoo-Digital-Voltmeter-Electronic-Experiments/dp/B0CQC6781P
