SCADA and RFI interference on RTK surveys

Abstract

This thesis investigated interference between SCADA radio transmissions and RTK radio transmissions. The research primarily focused on the SCADA network controlled by State Water Corporation. Previous research conducted by USQ students has indicated the validity of interference to GNSS from outside RF (radio frequencies). Anecdotally, it has been observed that SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) has detrimentally affected RTK surveying when in the vicinity of such transmitters The objective of the study was to quantify the extent and severity of any such interference, and from this information, produce a map specific to State Water’s SCADA network showing all potential areas where RTK Surveying might be compromised by the SCADA network. The field survey examined 4 State Water operated SCADA sites at two different locations. A third site, minimally affected by RFI was used as a reference site. At each site a series of coordinated points was measured using conventional traversing techniques and static GNSS, thereby eliminating RF interference. Leica 500 and 1200 RTK receivers were used to measure the test points with the result being compared to the control coordinates. It was found that accuracy and precision of the RTK results was negatively affected when operated in the vicinity of SCADA and other RF interference. This dissertation will show the extent of the effect and comment upon potential ‘zone of influence’ that surrounds the SCADA sites tested