Hi
So far we have been using TBC for calculating simple GPS measurements and now we would like to incorporate there some classical measurements (distance, angles) between certain points. I guess the only to do that is to import a "measurement file" from any Trimble Total Station or such. Unfortunately we don't have any, we have other brands.
Could anyone suggest:
1. the simplest file format (sample would be perfect) which we can create manually, which will look like made by a Trimble Total Station, and which we can later import into TBC?
2. perhaps any other way to add some simple distance/angle measurements into GPS survey to have all the data to be used in the adjustment.
Really appreciate all your time and help!
simon
> So far we have been using TBC for calculating simple GPS measurements and now we would like to incorporate there some classical measurements (distance, angles) between certain points. I guess the only to do that is to import a "measurement file" from any Trimble Total Station or such. Unfortunately we don't have any, we have other brands.
In the long run, it seems to me that the best answer is to use some third party software such as Star*Net or that of one of the other developers to combine GPS vectors with conventional survey measurements. Doesn't the history of Trimble suggest that the instant you become proficient with their software they will introduce some "new, improved" software that has no connection with what you already know? I've used Star*Net (for example) since 1988 and the basic functionality is still recognizable. Flat learning curve = GOOD. Steep learning curve = VERY BAD, possibly CRIMINAL.
You are right Kent. We've had a very bad experience with Trimble and their software support. If only we had a good substitute, we'd swap sides immediately.
Thanks for suggesting STAR*NET. It sounds like it does exactly what we need so we'll be looking at it very shortly!
If anyone has any other similar suggestions or can reply to my request for a sample file from Trimble Total Station, that would still be very appreciated.
Thanks!
simon
> Thanks for suggesting STAR*NET. It sounds like it does exactly what we need so we'll be looking at it very shortly!
One other third party least squares survey adjustment program that some posters have mentioned is marketed as "Columbus". It may be worth considering as well. I've never used it and don't have an opinion about it.
The weak link to Star*Net at present is that they sell the data collector conversion utilities as separate programs, not all of which perform equally well by the reports I've heard. I use data collector files in SDR format and the conversion on those works perfectly, so I've never had the problem of trying to get, say, Leica format data into Star*Net.
A few years ago, I was able to manually create an Autodesk Fieldbook FBK format file using conventional observations (occupied pt, backsight direction, hor angles face right and face left, vertical angles, slope distances, instrument and target heights, etc).
I'd hazard a guess that the FBK format is recognized by TBC although I haven't tried it.
If there is an FBK export option available for your total station, you might try that.
You should search the help drop down in TBC for "import data formats" There is a list there of everything that you can import. Like say .raw files from TDS, etc.
TBC and TGO before that are great programs but obviously work best with Trimble gear. I have to use Leica gear but with file conversions I can get most data into TBC (don't tell Leica though ;-))
Thanks for the response. The problem is that there is no Leica GSI format there and the other ones tell me nothing. All I have is a bunch of distance, Hz, Vert readings that I would like to use next to GPS vectors. Does it have to be so complicated? 🙁
