Topcon mmGPS users

Black Hawk Co. IA., post: 452568, member: 7339 wrote: Greetings,
Although actually "Equipment", figured this would be best thread to initiate a specific discussion for any Topcon mmGPS users, present / past to include the newer LZ-T5 and legacy Laser / Transmitter. In addition to any users still using FC-2***'s on TopSurv, and those specific to Magnet on FC-5000. Specific may be procedures, methods, likes / dislikes, results, projects, adaptability, etc. Simply to create a central resource for those of interest. Only see a few random discussions regarding equipment....

Our specific goal was to incorporate with our current (Legacy) Topcon GPS equipment (2 Hiper+'s and a GR3) using FC-2500's on TopSurv V8.2.3 (last). Utilization is focused on Network RTN (VRS) to simply maintain Vertical derived results under Network RTK (N/RTK) use. For self, wanted to adapt (invest) in mmGPS since 2009 with legacy Laser / Transmitter, and finally budgeted in 2014 to acquire newer LZ-T5 in Dec. 2015. Initial 2016 uses were prelim. Survey and profile design for AMG (Machine Control) Profile Milling (Contractor using Robotic T.S.'s), and numerous Prelim. / Site plan Surveys for Bridge replacement projects, a couple deck reconstruction projects, and another prelim. for Profile design on HMA/ACC Inlay (prev. PCC) into Interstate Bridge overpass. Uses also included Construction staking on small bridge layouts and a couple bridge Grading projects. Due to TopSurv not capable of recording any peripheral details of the mmGPS Laser, we maintained log entries in field book specific to project utilization's and result details / notes beyond standard point checks.

We did find results on a vast # of projects where the LZ-T5 was out of spec., and by Fall 2016 addressed with Topcon. Since we documented, returned early 2017 and was found to have bad internal components (they never did explain specific's), yet validated it failed tests and repaired under warranty. Discussing with dealer after repair, a regional Paving Contractor also returned their LZ-T5's (not sure #) for same concerns.

In mid 2017, we opted to upgrade to Magnet Field w/FC-5000's another year, and obtaining another PZL-1 Sensor to support our dual N/RTK rover uses. Projects in 2017 continued as part of another prelim. for profile design on a bridge overpass structure (PCC segment planned for ACC Inlay 2018+), prelim. site survey for tie-in ends on a realignment / relocation for 700' L. + bridge replacement project, additional QA-QC Tests using Transmitter with (and without) known point offset, and in addition to results with and without field calibrations (TopSurv does not maintain results per job / file, yet understand that an update of Magnet now does store ?), and a few more site prelim. / topo projects.

We don't plan on moving to Magnet till mid. 2018 at soonest, and possibly not till early 2019 to see if Topcon may release a newer FC-5*** in late 2018.

Happy to post up link(s) to anything of interest regarding further topic, and see if this grows over time.

Thanks,

Geoff T. (Ia. PLS)

Geoff,

You've posted a lot of run on sentences. I am very familiar with TopSurv, Magnet and mmGPS. But your method of typing is difficult to understand (appears to be interpreted from foreign language). Not sure if your trying to state your experience or asking a question. What I do gather from you post is your software is much older than some of your hardware. In order to gain the most production, with less hassle, it is best to upgrade to the latest software. I suggest you upgrade to Magnet 4.3 or newer, along with a Windows 10 Tablet PC such as the FC-5000 or Panasonic ToughPAD.

leegreen, post: 452585, member: 2332 wrote: But your method of typing is difficult to understand

I noted the same thing this morning, but decided not to play grammar police. However, since Lee has already opened that door: we're not dealing with battlefield reports sent via Morse code; there's plenty of time and bandwidth available to compose a comprehensible post, especially if you want to encourage useful responses. Little niceties like articles, prepositions and punctuation don't take long to type and add immensely to readability.

Foremost, far from trying to state experience. Was trying to open door of conversation regarding mmGPS equipment since not really any specific threads.
Second, upgrading to Magnet not happening at moment, and nothing to do with a failed transmitter / laser as stated. Don't believe I mentioned anything regarding a hassle with TopSurv, it supports mmGPS. Simply wanted to clarify utilization, that was all.
Third, attempt to simply compose without a novel..... so point regarding grammar taken.

Now, possibly everyone else will stick to topic of discussion.

Thanks,

Roger that. Frame out.

Pros using mmGPS
Laser accuracy for vertical with RTK horizontal accuracy.
Works well on pavers, graders and curb machine guidance
Easy setup.
Can span across 4 transmitters to cover additional distance

Cons:
Only works with Topcon Software
Requires constant line of site from Transmitter to Receiver
Very heavy hardware on top of pole. Would be nice if you could use Hiper SR or Sokkia GCX 2 or 3 w/ mmGPS