Since this whole uproar about Light Squared I have been doing a lot of thinking about GPS and one thing I have never really given a lot of thought to is why we as surveyors use the particular brand of GPS and other equipment and software that we do.
In the field I personally use Topcon with Topsurv software. The reason why is simple. Topcon was the brand used by my predecessor and I walked into it. Topsurv came later. When I saw how simple and effective it is and discovered I could easily use networks and cor stations with it I immediately dumped TDS and picked it up.
Topsurv has come a long way since I started using it and I believe it is because Topcon listens to surveyors.
I also use a Topcon robot and total stations.
In the office it is AutoCad. I use Corpscon to compute Lat-Longs and Topsurv office for data processing.
I have tried Carlson and MicroSurvey and am less than satisfied with their functionality.
As I said I use all of this stuff because I have never really been exposed to anything else other than different total stations and the infamous TDS 48 way back when. Before that a T1 and a chain.
I want to ask everyone that reads this blog to please leave a comment and tell me what equipment and software you use and why.
I want to know everything from the field to office.
Please share. Your educational comments are greatly appreciated.
I will be posting a taste test comparison in a week or so.
Confucius also say that he who goes through turnstyle sideways at airport is going to bangcock...
ReplyDeleteGPS RTK - When on the road I use Trimble R8's with a TSC data collector. When in my hometown area I use a LeGant base receiver and a Hyper+ rover with a TDS data collector. I can also use the R8's as additional rovers when needed.
ReplyDeleteI use a Topcon reflectorless total station. Wanting a robotic but frankly if I have to setup a gun its a bad day. I use the TDS data collector with this also.
My deal is functionality... I like systems that can be integrated when need be. Brand loyalty don't mean crap to me. I prefer systems that have a proven track record and work well with others. I have used the SDR33, TDS48, Carlson, Leica DC's and to TDS is the best. GPS wise Trimble R8's kick butt especially in cover. My least favorite is the TSC but hey you gotta do what ya gotta do. I like it when I use the hyper switch gears setup the gun and use the TDS DC. That is the best scenario.
Office - Civil3d on subscription. Its the industry standard and dang near every engineer/architect uses AutoCad. Carlson just did not cut it for me.
Although it won’t happen, I’ll try to be brief. I have used many Instruments over the years – even Pentax… That’s right… a Pentax. Mostly Topcon. As far as GPS, at my current employer, we also use the “R8’s” and they work great – and without Glonass. We also have the Spectra-Precision Robotic / Prismless which is absolutely amazing. Talk about productivity… And scary precision – especially vertically… It is freaking “Bang on”. That damn Robot knows where the absolute center of the prism is I guaren damn tee ya…
ReplyDeleteAnyway (typical Dane…) To all the Owners / Surveyors out there, if you have a 2 man crew with the above mentioned capabilities – you actually have 2 crews going once you get past the investment.
“Sum Bitch”, there I go again… - Back on topic, as far as Construction Staking goes, TDS has everyone beat – hands down, but when it comes to Boundaries, ALTA’s & Topographic Survey’s, I really prefer the Trimble Field Controller Software. The pathetic only reason – Because TDS wont pull their head out of their ass and give me enough space to type in the appropriate descriptor without taking 10 shots or going into the “Note Mode” and although you tell your pimply faced poindexter at the cad station “I have some very important notes in the Raw Data” the puke never looks at it… Ok, I’m done.
As far as Automated drafing, Carlson’s “Field to Finish” is very impressive – once you have it set up the way you want it. BUT – only on the raw linework – but still a time saver – especially for poindexter… Carlson’s “Cad – Tools” suck in my opinion, But I’ve been running AutoCAD for around 20 years. I am sure everyone has their “Descriptor Key File” set up in AutoCAD by now, but did you know, that if you process you points and create an AutoCAD “Field Book” – you can actually “automatically” draft that as well if you have the “Import Field Book with Linework” checked. Personally, I played with that a wee bit but became so frustrated – by the time I was done getting pissed off – I could have the drafted the damn thing – since I shot it anyway.
Extremely long story short – very much personal preference and my advice to you John is simple. Let some more Surveyor’s “Chime in” and then maybe narrow it down to 2 or 3 and consider going out with one of their crews for a day – watch it in action – and go through the point dump and the processing of the points and see the “automation” I believe you are looking for. Some will not show you any of their “secrets” – but I’m sure some will be very willing to help.
Kindest Regards
Dane
As far as Automated drafing - dammit "DRAFTING"
ReplyDeleteI use a Leica 1200 Cell phone Rover on Leica's Network. I like it. It is efficient and quick. I have used Leica 530 RTK since 2004. I have never had any issues. I like the fact thet they have the complete set up.... not an integration with some other data collector by others. My old 530 has NEVER been down. It is an awsome machine and works all the time. I know several other firms which asked me for recomendations.... I recomended Leica. THey bought other brands (topcon) and have to send it away for repairs at least once a year. If you look at the down time and the quality of what you buy, I feel Leica makes the best product on the market....
ReplyDeleteR Waage