A method and system for variable data rate transmission in a real-time
kinematic (RTK) positioning system. An RTK positioning system having a
reference station and a rover utilizes wireless communications for data
transfer. The data transmission rate between the reference station and
the rover is dynamically controlled by a programmable transmission
controller. The transmission rate is determined on the basis of specific
parameters. Parameters that may be used to determine the data
transmission rate include rover demand, required rover accuracy,
satellite positioning system (SATPS) events, the required data for
ambiguities, and the type and content of the data transmitted.