Here's a data sheet for the 5600 DR200+ and DR300+ and DR Standard, which says what is in each (it is appears to be different for DRXXX+ and DR Standard) and what distance measurement method is used.
It is the RMT that has IR diodes in it that the tracker (lower "scope") on the instrument can detect and follow, hence this is what controls the vertical and horizontal pointing of the instrument. Without the RMT (an active system) 5600's can't track. I think Trimble S series can track both active and passive targets, and the active target still uses the RMT IR diode method, but the "tracker" is incorporated into the single instrument scope.
one can still measure a distance and an angle by measuring to the prism without autolock being turned on.
Dane,
I apologize, profusely. I did not accurately interpret your original post and incorrectly assumed you were referring to a DR+ instrument. You never mentioned reflector-less measurement. That was my assumption.
Please, forgive me. I guess I was so concerned with reflector-less measurements to a prism that I felt compelled to save you from yourself.
I guess I am the one that needs saving. I will do my penance and speak only when spoken to in the future. Or, at least, speak only when I have fully understood a topic as written.
I have been using a variant of this instrument for about 15 years, DR+ and non DR+ and I am currently running a Spectra Precision Focus 10 and I thought that experience would be a help. Sorry to get in the way.
JA, PLS SoCal
Jerry no need to apologize. I did get a lot of help out of your comments. To be honest the thought of taking a reflectorless shot on a prism never occurred to me. BTW can you tell me if the Focus line is reaching its end of life any time soon?
Dane Mince, post: 393588, member: 296 wrote: Jerry no need to apologize. I did get a lot of help out of your comments. To be honest the thought of taking a reflectorless shot on a prism never occurred to me. BTW can you tell me if the Focus line is reaching its end of life any time soon?
Dane,
I no longer feel qualified to provide any information regarding the Focus 10. I do know that Spectra Precision no longer sells them.
I, also, know that it has been tougher than it used to be to get parts and accessories. I recently had all of my batteries recelled and was able to get the internal battery replaced and a system tune-up/cleaning with little fuss, but I am told that system boards and radios are scarce.
I have paired mine with a Carlson RT3 and hope that it will last another five years.
JA, PLS SoCal