I am wondering if there are any other Magnet Field users out there that could help. We use specific linework in our company and I was wondering if I can import a .lin file into Field so that I can use it in the code lists? If not, is there a way that you would recommend I could get it into my data collector?
Following
I'm new to Magnet Field and currently only doing layout but I'm looking to learn what I can about the software.
T. Nelson - SAM
I'm not sure if you are referencing to import line types or feature codes.?ÿ
There are ways to import a feature code list. not line styles or line types such as fence and guide rail.. Is the lin file for Carlson or Autocad?
Are you looking for how to draw lines, arcs, rectangle etc with MF?
Magnet Field uses a few generic line styles, predefined. Not ment to be a full cad. Most export a point or raw file then let your CAD/Cogo process the codes into to specific line styles and blocks.?ÿ
I suppose you could use the correct layer names in MF, export a DWG. Then let CAD remap the line styles by layer.
We use AutoCAD with Civil 3D in the office. To create a line in AutoCAD, we add linework codes to our field codes such as:
EC1 B, which is Edge of Concrete 1 Begin
EC1 E, which is Edge of Concrete 1 End
I believe the linework codes are setup in AutoCAD. I'm not familiar with the entire field-to-finish process. We use MAGNET Field.
I recently learned how to create a stake report in MAGNET Field. It's useful because it shows you your occupied, backsight, staked points, etc. Handy for writing your field notes!
Field Dog (Mark)
Sometimes if you are not familiar with the process it may be better not to comment all. As this is confusing to others.
You have described "Control Codes". To edit these Control Codes in MF: go to
Exchange > To File
Data >Points
Format >Topcon Text Custom Report
At the bottom Left Select Code Style
At the bottom select Control Codes
These are user-definable control codes to match your Cogo software.
?ÿ
You don't add the string number to feature code in Magnet Field. The String number is a separate field that shows up next to the feature code.
?ÿ
You don't add the string number to feature code in Magnet Field. The String number is a separate field that shows up next to the feature code.
Our party chiefs use string numbers to keep track of their work. An example would be:
North EOP, EP1
South EOP, EP2
I can't recall seeing a separate string number field when I collect points. Nowadays, with mapping inherent in field software, string numbers shouldn't be necessary anymore. Can you set MAGNET Field to draw lines and curves when using control codes?
Nowadays, with mapping inherent in field software, string numbers shouldn't be necessary anymore
Huh..... that doesn't make sense at all. There is no EASY Button. You will need line sting numbers when running multiple lines simultaneously. There is no way for the software to know how to connect them, otherwise.
Yes, MF can draw lines strings, curves, circles, close rectangles, etc. The pull-down on right (shown below) is the control codes for line strings.
You will need line sting numbers when running multiple lines simultaneously. There is no way for the software to know how to connect them, otherwise.
Yes, you are absolutely correct! I do remember seeing the line string number field when using EC1, EP1, etc. If I go to Map View, will I see the line, curve, etc. being created? I have only recently been back to working with our survey crews, so I'm trying to remember everything.
What do you use for your uploads? I had nothing but a CSV for over a year (everyone else uses Microsurvey office and field) and swore at magnets poor line drawing function for a long time. Finally figured out I could import a .DXF so I could see everything on the map view.?ÿ
The main upsides to Magnet for me were pinch to zoom on the map screen and not having to click different buttons to move around the map like on Fieldgenius. The downside was terrible interaction with the points on the screen.?ÿ
?ÿ
Overall the software is pretty good when you learn a lot of the tricks. It's the hardware that's pure junk.?ÿ
It's the hardware that's pure junk.
What don't you like about it?
It's been an abusive relationship since the start. They sold us it with Fieldgenius on it (because that's what all our crews use and want to stick with) and it barely functioned at the start. Several emails, phone calls, firmware updates and software updates got it working a lot better but still terrible. Eventually to help me out they let me try magnet field on it. This helped a lot but we also had the RC unit fail, so it didn't have any range beyond 60 meters, then the ultrasonic motor failed (happened again just recently).?ÿ
Even at its best, it sometimes just freezes up, gets a lock but no tracking. Loses a lock easily. It's been the worst machine I've ever used. It might be fine now after the latest repair but I only used it twice just to make sure it worked and I've been using an 11 year old Leica with a Parani adapter and it is a much better robot than the Sokkia in every way except maximum range (hopefully solved somewhat with the longer antenna I ordered).?ÿ
My boss had bought 2 Sokkia SRX robots, both were okay (not great robots but they lasted and had no failures at least) and a Sokkia GPS which I still use. This ix robot basically lost all my bosses future purchases from Topcon/Sokkia. He's going to trade it on a replacement for the SRX the one crew uses still (it will stay as a backup in case my new 11 year old Leica ever conks out).?ÿ
Sorry, rant over. This discussion is about the software not the hardware. I'm pretty adaptable to different software (I can use Fieldgenius, Trimble access and magnet field - all have their strengths and all have really annoying missing features). I personally prefer it over Trimble access, and I'd call it a tie between it and Fieldgenius.
@leegreen The .lin file is for autocad. I was thinking to at least get it close to as in line color and layer and then we can just do a quick edit in cad.
?ÿ
@squirl I sold Topcon equipment and helped train people. I know some cool tricks that I wish were around when I was starting out 25 yrs ago. You can definitely add me to linkeden or facebook and I can help out if you have a question.
Ed Jolliffe?ÿ