We have found that Leica's Smartwork is pretty limited in it's FTF functions. For linework it has Beg END PC and that's about it. Also if you want to export an acsii file or rw5 and want to use double coding you can't use the codes list but will need to type the entire string in at each shot.
We want to use Carlson SurvCE running in the CS15. We have checked with Carlson and Leica to see how it works but they are giving us opposite opinions.
I was hoping to get some feedback that could let me know any practical issues with installing the SurvCE onto the CS15 and controlling the GS14 Viva GPS.
I'm not a very experienced user. But it's what they use here at NDOT for some of the construction survey crews.
The only real hookup so far that I've found is that for setting up the gs15/14 as a base station I have to use lecia's stock software to set it up because carlson didn't support the correct modulation type at the time. (it's probably been fixed or going to be fixed soon as I talked to carlson about fixing it awhile ago and they seemed like they planned to do it.)
other minor issues. for roving with cellular you have to install internet connection wizard onto windows and and use the windows control panel bluetooth connection wizard to make sure your controller and rover head have a bluetooh connection.
you HAVE to check both those EVERY time before booting into carlson which takes maybe 2 minutes?
lemme know if you have more questions.
Carlson SurvCE is AMAZING software with GREAT tech support. The leica equipment is nice too, but I don't really know about whats more compatible
We ran those that way at the last place I worked.....well sort of. We had to run the GPS through Smartworx and then we could run the total stations through Carlson all on the CS15. It was a huge pain.
I can't recall the exact compatibility issue (I think Smartworx would not run a Topcon and we were too cheap to get the GPS module for Carlson - there also may have been an issue with communicating with a GS14 in Carlson but I am not certain). That collector kind of stinks for running Carlson. It doesn't have all the same keys you would have on the Carlson collector which makes running their program easier.
With all that being said, Carlson is probably better field software for most users. I think the Smartworx stuff is good for really high end users who want to spend the time necessary to really learn every little thing in the software and instrumentation and then get super refined measurements. Honestly that's not necessary for 99% of surveying.
So akidnameddroo is correct. There are a couple of issues when using the GS15/CS15/Carlson combination.
First, you will still need to use Viva to program the radios as well as the onboard SIM connection if used. Carlson can not do this properly. In fact, using Carlson to do this can destroy the radio programming all together.
In addition, the Bluetooth connection is not solid. The GS14 uses a PAN Connection that Carlson doesn't handle well. The work around is to turn on the Recevier power and wait until you see the satellite light on the display show that satellites are being received. At that point you can power up the controller and the hotspot connection and everything works fine. If you don't start up this way the connection will fail most of the time.
I would certainly suggest talking to your Leica dealer about the items you feel Viva is lacking on the linework side of Viva Smartworx. Viva is powerful. Regardless if it is popular, or easy to use, it is some of the most powerful software out there, if you know how to use it properly.
I agree that in the past Carlson has been known for their support. I would say though that Leica's support is equal if you are using their hardware/software solution. Mix the two and both companies will probably just blame each other.
You described exactly what I experienced with the bluetooth connection.
However I don't have to use viva for cellular connection right now. (I boot up internet connection wizard before I start carlson)
I only have to use viva to set up the base station. To CONNECT to it i can use only carlson.
SO FAR carlson and leica haven't played the blame game yet. but you are correct in that at some point that might happen.
