Hi @Mac1
Regarding disconnecting QGC GPS:
The “UDP” box in picture above should be checked so you have NMEA from Companion.
When Companion in the ROV starts receiving NMEA and resends to QGC, you should have an audio message like “EK2 changed” and also a change in the QGC log (click the loudspeaker symbol in top list QGC)
Double check so ALL of your IP units could communicate, use Ping command to check them.
(ROV/Companion, QGC computer, Laptop 2)