I have an old TDS Ranger controller (which looks like a TSC 2) and it has an unknown software on it, which I assume is called TDS Survey Pro. I don't know for sure because the thing won't power up. It is an old controller that they use to run a Trimble M3. Someone I work with loves using that controller for total station work, and would like the old controller software installed on the TSC 3 (running Trimble Access). If I have the install disc, can I have Access and Survey pro on the same TSC 3, running as independent programs?
You'd have to buy a license code for Survey Pro, and even at that I'm not confident that they could both run on the same collector. Even if they would, the new version of Survey Pro would be vastly different than what's on that old Ranger. Your best bet is probably to try to find a used one of the same vintage on E-Bay.
Does it not power up because of battery / charge condition or is it dead?
Without more detail I'm guessing you'll need an activation key to unlock survey pro once installed. Probably gonna be a PITA. Tried getting the Survey Pro robotic module unlocked on a Ranger 500, from the 200 that came with instrument. After a lot of lost time getting passed around on the phone, finally got an answer that it would be $1200 for the key.
They do things totally differently now; even if you had the program on a CD it wouldn't install correctly on a TSC3. And they won't transfer the license, the licenses are tied to the serial numbers of the data collectors.
I haven't seen Survey Pro in a few years but it doesn't look anything like it used to, and all of the licensing and upgrades are web based now, just like with Access.
We have the install disc, but like you said - it's tied to the serial number anyway. It won't power up because the battery won't hold/accept a charge. The best option is likely to get a new battery for the old controller I suppose.
There should definitely still be batteries for a TSC2 available from someone. That's definitely your best option if that's all it is.
FYI I contacted NEI in Lafayette, LA - they have one left and they can't get any more. 337-237-1413 if you're interested.
Well, both Access and Survey Pro can be installed on a TSC3. We happen to have one or two at my company.
Survey Pro works very similar between the TSC2 and TSC3. I'm sure your local TDS shop could sell you a license to register the software. I'd fathom between $600-$2000 depending on modules you need.
Lastly, if you have a decent battery or electronics shop, they could recell the TSC2 battery. We've done that a couple times in the past at a previous employer.
Good luck!
~Raybies