I currently use a Spectra SP80 as a network rover. I would like to upgrade to a base / rover setup. My first thought is buy a sp80 to use as a base and buy the Spectra Precision Office Software.
Any comments on this setup or software?
Thanks
I personally think that a matched base rover pair will provide you with better under canopy performance that mixing in another brand of base.
However as you already know, your SP80 works great in any network that provides GPS+GLONASS corrections with a multitude of correction formats (CMR+, RTCM3.x, CMRx.) There is not a lot of technology in a base (well at least when compared to a rover.)
But, the SP80 has a unique ability to use Galileo, BeiDou and even L1 phase to SBAS (the WAAS) satellites. (Which are geosynchronous, so there is no Doppler, which is extra helpful.)
With matched base/rover you won't need to worry about radio mode compatibility since both the radios are identical (in this case Pacific Crest XDL.) Also, you can choose to use the ATOM COMPACT or SUPER COMPACT protocol, unique to SP devices. This will make the batteries last a bit longer on the base (as there is more compression in ATOM than RTCM 3.2 MSM.)
The SP80 base also has the ability to be controlled by text messaging. It can alert you if it is moved, it can alert you where it is if stolen. I really like the way that the SP80's Wi-Fi works too.
If you want to save a few bucks, you might consider the SP60. But I personally would want the dual batteries, the internal cell modem and additional memory capabilities of the SP80 (especially for a base.)
So, what is the downside? Perhaps price. Capable bases that will work really well can be found for 1/2 the price.
SPSO (Spectra Precision Survey Office) is also a great tool. I am not sure how you will use it (perhaps processing base/rover vectors?) OPUS-Static and OPUS-Projects have taken most of my personal processing slack. However, if you are going to purchase SPSO be sure to purchase it with the Base receiver as it saves $500 to bundle.
There is a crazy good sale on SP80's until the end of March, so now is a good time to purchase.
Don't forget to budget for the yearly maintenance on the SP80's (they include 2-years when purchased.) And SPSO should be good for 1-year from the time of purchase.
M
Thanks for the reply Mark,
I like the idea of a SP80 for a base for all the reasons you mentioned. Could you give me some of the other less expensive options so I can compare?
Yes, I will be using the office software for base / rover static vectors.
Could you give me info on the sale you mentioned ?
Thanks!