We use both Microstation and AutoCAD to deliver survey drawings. One thing we've been wondering about Microstation lately, is whether or not there is a better, faster way of importing our linework.
We've seen directly converted .FWD files used to import linework (from Leica software). We run Topcon (Magnet and Topsurv) and TDS data collectors. Anyone seen or know where to get a conversion program that converts different formats into Microstation .FWD format (including .raw, .job, .tsj., or the like)?
Thanks!
Is FWD the old Fieldworks file format?
Not sure what you are trying to do here. I am not a where of Leica software directly creating linework from a FWD file, as you say. They are using InRoads or Power Survey to import your survey data, this creates a FWD file. Then InRoads or Power Survey will draw the linework, points, and contours in the Microstation CAD file.
Microstation and AutCAOD are your media like paper, vellum or mylar.
InRoads and C3D are drafting tools like your pencil, triangle, protractor, and leroy machine,.
Microstation does NOT read or write a FWD file. InRoads and Power Survey create and FWD (Field Book) file from your imported survey data.
Microstation is the CAD platform (as is AutoCAD and IntelliCAD), and InRoads is a third party application that uses your input to analyze and enhance the data for drafting (as is Carlson or Civil 3D). The 3rd party applications run on top of the CAD platform.
To answer your question:
"Anyone know where to get a conversion program that converts different formats into Microstation .FWD format (including .raw, .job, .tsj., or the like)?"
The answer is InRoads or Power Survey, they can import .raw . rw5 .sdr
You .tsj file is Topcon format, so you would first need to export that the to .raw or .sdr or .rw5. Same with the .job file, that is C3D.
Feel free to contact me directly.
Lee Green
lee@leegreen.com
> We use both Microstation and AutoCAD to deliver survey drawings. One thing we've been wondering about Microstation lately, is whether or not there is a better, faster way of importing our linework.
>
> We've seen directly converted .FWD files used to import linework (from Leica software). We run Topcon (Magnet and Topsurv) and TDS data collectors. Anyone seen or know where to get a conversion program that converts different formats into Microstation .FWD format (including .raw, .job, .tsj., or the like)?
>
> Thanks!
Paul -
I ran into the same thing when I started w/ my current employer, we would have to guess at where the breaks should be which was a complete PITA. There was literally NO linework at all when the data was imported.
Its not that you are importing something specific from Leica, its the basis to which the data was collected vs the .xin file setup that is being used to read the data as its brought in. You can do it natively with some of the manufactures exports, or like what I do is process it all / adjust it in TBC and then export out at an ASCII file format.
Coding that matches the .xin file will be used to create your linework, symbology, ect... If done correctly will save you quite a bit of time in the office trying to figure out what was trying to be conveyed by the field crews. Greatest thing about it is that once you get in there and get a handle on what the .xin is looking for, you can create your own codes, link to symbols, ect...
As previously stated, an import into InRoads, field data sent graphics / committed, and then on to the .dtm surface file is a bit different than on the AutoDesk side of things, but TBH I actually prefer ( I know, Im about the only one o.O ) to use InRoads vs all other programs that I have dealt with.
There are many publicly available .xin file bases out there that you can start your shops ( master file ) from if you should desire to get into it. If you need some assistance with it drop me a line and I will see if I can help any.
--Allen
