Trimble launches IonoGuard to protect RTK during solar storms
Trimble and PTx Trimble have announced the release of IonoGuard, a new technology designed to improve RTK GNSS signal reliability during solar storms and ionospheric disturbances.
The feature is now available for users of the PTx Trimble NAV-900™ guidance controller and Trimble base stations equipped with the ProPoint positioning engine.
During solar maximum periods, such as Solar Cycle 25 (2024–2026), GNSS signals may be affected by ionospheric interference, especially in equatorial regions. This can lead to signal loss, delayed operations, and increased input waste during tasks like planting and spraying.
Tested in the field
Trimble states that IonoGuard was developed to maintain RTK correction integrity and reduce the risk of positioning dropouts during high solar activity. The company says the tool has already been tested in the field.
“The May 2024 solar storm was a real-world test for IonoGuard,” said Andrew Sunderman, VP of product & customer experience at PTx Trimble. “According to feedback from beta testers like Vantage Australia, IonoGuard helped maintain signal access and reduced downtime during critical work windows.”
Available now via firmware update
While the feature is designed to improve reliability, Trimble’s performance claims are based on internal testing and user feedback and have not been independently verified. IonoGuard is available as part of the latest PTx Trimble Precision-IQ firmware release. When used with compatible GNSS hardware, the system aims to deliver higher RTK performance during both routine operations and periods of solar disturbance.
