Need advice, maybe tutoring, for data collector purchase

Every data collector from the newest Leica to a a 25 year old husky will be able to work seamlessly with any version of autocad. Autocad isn't the problem is this instance.

The primary issue is connecting to your other hardware. Newer instruments and GPS are usually set up to ONLY work with the the same brand data collector.

The second issue I would be aware of with older equipment is cabling issues. I would try and avoid pre-USB equipment as it is more problematic, as Windows is offering less and less support.

Every data collector from the newest Leica to a a 25 year old husky will be able to work seamlessly with any version of autocad. Autocad isn't the problem is this instance.

The primary issue is connecting to your other hardware. Newer instruments and GPS are usually set up to ONLY work with the the same brand data collector.

The second issue I would be aware of with older equipment is cabling issues. I would try and avoid pre-USB equipment as it is more problematic, as Windows is offering less and less support.

Thanks SummerP--.

Much like a kid on a high diving board for the first time, I'm staring at the 'water' with this purchase. I'm trying my hardest NOT to buy a $1K paperweight.

Mike

What is your application? What kind of data are you collecting and with what sensor?

Hi Lee,
I intend to collect raw survey data (PNEZD) data with either a Nikon or South total station. This data will flow through the instrument into the collector thence to Civil 3D '10.

thx

mike

Hi Lee,
I intend to collect raw survey data (PNEZD) data with either a Nikon or South total station. This data will flow through the instrument into the collector thence to Civil 3D '10.

thx

mike

Hi Lee,
I intend to collect raw survey data (PNEZD) data with either a Nikon or South total station. This data will flow through the instrument into the collector thence to Civil 3D '10.

thx

mike

I see I'm not the only one whose replies don't appear to post...lol.

Any data collector will give you an ASCII PNEZD file that will go into C3D with no problem... for cheap and easy I'd probably recommend Carlson. Personally I like a full keyboard, which will cost you more than a PDA-style device.

It sounds like most collectors probably do a lot more than you need... at least the last time I looked, a lot of things (like GNSS support) were optional with Carlson, and the base software was pretty cheap.

I don't think the C3D is the issue. You can just export to an ASCii file or TXT and import it into C3D. It doesn't sound like you want to use any of the advanced automatic drafting features that would require creation of a fieldbook file (FBK).

I think you should just get something easy to use like Carlson field software. That will run on most collectors and should have no problem communicating with your total station. That's where you need to consider the connectivity. Total station ==> Data collector ==> PC.

Are you looking at a new collector?

I don't think the C3D is the issue. You can just export to an ASCii file or TXT and import it into C3D. It doesn't sound like you want to use any of the advanced automatic drafting features that would require creation of a fieldbook file (FBK).

I think you should just get something easy to use like Carlson field software. That will run on most collectors and should have no problem communicating with your total station. That's where you need to consider the connectivity. Total station ==> Data collector ==> PC.

Are you looking at a new collector?

Dan Patterson, post: 383157, member: 1179 wrote: I don't think the C3D is the issue. You can just export to an ASCii file or TXT and import it into C3D. It doesn't sound like you want to use any of the advanced automatic drafting features that would require creation of a fieldbook file (FBK).

I think you should just get something easy to use like Carlson field software. That will run on most collectors and should have no problem communicating with your total station. That's where you need to consider the connectivity. Total station ==> Data collector ==> PC.

Are you looking at a new collector?

Hi Dan,

I'd consider any purchase, be it used or new, provided the package is complete. I don't want to keep ordering cables, software, chips, patches, etc. I'm hoping to find a person or an outfit that may be able to sell and train. I've contact some retailers are willing to sell, but won't provide training, hence, my caution.

thanks for resp...

Dan Patterson, post: 383157, member: 1179 wrote: I don't think the C3D is the issue. You can just export to an ASCii file or TXT and import it into C3D. It doesn't sound like you want to use any of the advanced automatic drafting features that would require creation of a fieldbook file (FBK).

I think you should just get something easy to use like Carlson field software. That will run on most collectors and should have no problem communicating with your total station. That's where you need to consider the connectivity. Total station ==> Data collector ==> PC.

Are you looking at a new collector?

Hi Dan,

I'd consider any purchase, be it used or new, provided the package is complete. I don't want to keep ordering cables, software, chips, patches, etc. I'm hoping to find a person or an outfit that may be able to sell and train. I've contact some retailers are willing to sell, but won't provide training, hence, my caution.

thanks for resp...

Getting an instrument with Bluetooth and a collector that will connect to it using Bluetooth will save you a lot of headaches. I would tell any vendor that if they want to sell you a system, they'll demo it, get it working, and give you at least enough training to get you going. If they can't do that much they're useless going forward and not someone you need to be dealing with.

http://www.carlsonsw.com/products/hardware/mini/

Go to Superior Instrument in Milldale CT and talk with Patrick. He is a straight shooter and they provide training and support.