Considering getting a S6 and trying to decide what software to get. I do primarily construction staking and allot of it. Back in the day the Trimble software just didn't compare to TDs for staking. Used the last TSC software before Access last year and it seemed way better than before but I really didn't do that much staking with it. So is anyone using Access for construction staking? Roads, slope staking, curbs, sewer, water storm etc. Using alignments and also points and being able to define staking by points and offsets etc. How does it compare to the tried and true "I can run it in my sleep" TDS?
Thanks in advance!
I've been using trimble for about a month now and don't think I will ever be able to do it "in my sleep". TDS is still the "Way to Go" if you want my opinion.
I've got both and Access is the clear winner. TDS is not what it used to be. Access is worlds better in controlling the S-series guns. I have no idea why TDS doesn't work as good as Access but it doesn't. TDS is easier to do computations and rotating/translating but if your doing construction staking I would take it that all computations are done in the office. I think stakeout in both are equal. Just wait until you have thousands of points and then Access pulls away fast. Also if you have background images they are quick regens as per TDS there is always a hourglass turning. I think TDS a decade ago was great. Now the program just doesn't compare to their competition. Access would be a great if they would just take the easiness of TDS on computations and incorporated into their program. If your a trimble guy (I'm not) it should be an easy decision. If I had it to do over again I would buy another Leica and use their controller running Fieldgenius. But Trimble has a hard backpack case and all others just don't understand that a one man survey crew needs a third arm. Not the case with Trimble. ONLY reason I bought a Trimble.
Leica has straps for its cases, transforming them into back packs.
I agree with Phillip that the S6 will run better with Access. However, if you do a lot of on-the-fly job requests and/or field fits requiring in the field calculations, TDS is probably a better choice, especially if you know the software inside-out. I personally do not like it but can see its benefits.
In the end, make sure that your DC talks to your gun with no downtime and errors, that's pretty much the key deciding factor I would suggest.
S6s and R8s run best with Access.
TDS is now price pointed with the Focus and Epoch instruments.
Let me understand this? You are choosing an S6 over a Leica because the case turns into a backpack?!? Really?!?
> Considering getting a S6 and trying to decide what software to get. I do primarily construction staking and allot of it. Back in the day the Trimble software just didn't compare to TDs for staking. Used the last TSC software before Access last year and it seemed way better than before but I really didn't do that much staking with it. So is anyone using Access for construction staking? Roads, slope staking, curbs, sewer, water storm etc. Using alignments and also points and being able to define staking by points and offsets etc. How does it compare to the tried and true "I can run it in my sleep" TDS?
>
> Thanks in advance!
I've been a tds guy forever, I've just upgraded my TSC software to Access. The "S" series gun will run seamlessly with Access and TSC. The computational capabilities on TDS are far more robust (or they seem, since I'm not as proficient with access yet). Someone described TDS as Access' competitor, let's make sure we understand that they are owned by the same company and it seems Trimble is more interested in converting people to their Trimble brand. The TDS support is not what it used to be, so that may be something else to take into consideration. I figure it's better that I spend my time becoming as proficient with access as I am with TDS, it seems to be the way of the future.
BTW I run an S8 with access and a 5600 with TDS.
Ralph
> Let me understand this? You are choosing an S6 over a Leica because the case turns into a backpack?!? Really?!?
Yes. Really.
> > Let me understand this? You are choosing an S6 over a Leica because the case turns into a backpack?!? Really?!?
>
> Yes. Really.
The straps came in handy on a recent barrier island job. BONUS!
TRIMBLE...there's no substitute. 😀
I want to change my answer.
I am now of the opinion that the trimble software is very basic in the cogo and calculation areas. Also you can take a TDS software package and sit down and play with it as a learning tool. Not so with trimble, it won't let you do squat unless it is connected to an instrument of some sort, basically a paper weight anywhere other than the field.
Vern,
We set up an convetional instrument in the settings,
of course you have to key in all your angels and distances this way,
but you can practice without setting up a gun.
did you explore the staking from the map, from a linked dxf? We love it!
Chr.
yes it's great for staking what is already calculated but if you want to calculate something in the field you better have another calculator.
> I want to change my answer.
>
> I am now of the opinion that the trimble software is very basic in the cogo and calculation areas. Also you can take a TDS software package and sit down and play with it as a learning tool. Not so with trimble, it won't let you do squat unless it is connected to an instrument of some sort, basically a paper weight anywhere other than the field.
You simply go to settings and create an instrument called "manual", from there key in all your data.
I'm starting to realize the power of customization via style sheets. Great addition.
Ralph
If you get Trimble Access, run it on the TSC3. Access runs a little slow on the TSC2. I like the old TDS software that ran on the 48. I have not used it on the Trimble Survey Controller.