Getting Started with u-blox Thingstream and PointPerfect

Contributors: bboyho

u-blox Thingstream Services

There are two key steps to be able to achieve centimeter positioning accuracy using the ZED-F9P through u-blox thingstream and PointPerfect services.

• Register with u-blox Thingstream and sign up for a PointPerfect IP (Internet Provider) plan (data stream)
• Configure the ZED-F9P with encryption key(s) so it can decrypt and use the correction data

By default, the ZED-F9P is configured such that the correction data is passed from a correction source to the ZED using the UART2 interface. However, it is also possible to read the correction data and push (write) it to the ZED using I²C. We just need to configure the modules so that the I²C port is enabled and set the protocol.

Thingstream and PointPerfect Services

You will need to use u-blox Thingstream and PointPerfect service.

Thingstream is u-blox service delivery platform for IoT Communication-as-a-Service, IoT Security-as-a-Service and IoT Location-as-a-Service.

PointPerfect is u-blox GNSS augmentation service which is designed to provide high-precision GNSS corrections to suitable receivers with decimeter-level location accuracy. The following webinar from u-blox has an excellent explanation of the service and how the system works.

PointPerfect data is delivered through Thingstream. The first step is to register with Thingstream and then request an IP plan. You can find the current pricing on u-blox portal. Select IoT Location-as-a-Service and then PointPerfect.

You may need to contact u-blox first, to enable the option to purchase the plan through your Thingstream account.

The PointPerfect IP plan provides unlimited access to the correction data stream via Internet Protocol (MQTT).

Once IP permissions are enabled on your Thingstream account, you will be able to add a new IP Location Thing and view its credentials:

• Login to Thingstream
• Select Location Services and then Location Things
• The Add Location Thing button (top right) will allow you to select and activate an IP plan.
• Add PointPerfect Thing, enter a name for the thing, and hit the Create button.
• Once your IP plan is active, you will be able to monitor your Activity and view your Credentials via the appropriate tabs.

Note: If you are lucky and received a card insert with your board, there is a special referral/redemption code that is included with the purchase of the HPG board. This provides 1-month of free, unlimited access to Point Perfect for a single device! This only applies to IP service and not the L-band service.

Graphic of card insert (top and bottom) included with compatible u-blox high precision GNSS modules.

The steps to active the IP plan with the special redemption code are similar to the process listed above:

• Login to Thingstream
• Select Location Services and then Location Things
• The Add Location Thing button (top right) will allow you to select and activate an IP plan.
• Select the Use a code and then Redeem your Thing.
• Enter the code provided on the card (under "Your Referral/Redemption Code:") into the field and follow the prompts to activate the promotion code.
• Once your IP plan is active, you will be able to monitor your Activity and view your Credentials via the appropriate tabs.