Are there any Focus 30 users out there? I would love to hear some opinions from experienced users. I have read that they are re-branded Trimbles but that's not much help to me since I've never been a Trimble user. I have also read that when you buy a Trimble you are stuck with paying for upgrades on a regular basis. Is that also true for Spectra Precision and the Focus 30?
I've got some experience with Topcon and Leica robots, mostly Topcon. Truth be told I think they're both a pain. I work in very congested construction sites with people often walking between me and the target. I find both brands lacking in their ability to stay on the prism and to reacquire it.
My regular gun is a Topcon 8203 with TopSurv. It's a hassle to switch between robotic and conventional modes. I'm pretty happy with the TopSurv software, maybe not as nice as Carlson or TDS but I still like it. The Leica is a nice TS but I hate the software. I can see where Smartworx might be okay for a typical survey company with multiple crews doing data collection but that's not what I do. I do construction layout and SmartWorx just gets in the way of getting the job done.
Focus 30 touts its stepdrive technology. As a user does it matter?
I went to the online Spectra Precision dealer locator, they don't list a dealer in Washington State. Is that true?
Thanks for your input.
I've seen them in action at the local dealer and have a friend that uses one. From what I've heard the early ones had a real problem tracking anything reflective, but the problem was corrected with a firmware update.
I'm like you, I've been down the Topcon 800/8000 path, but after that experience moved on to a Leica TCRA1105 Plus. I use a Ranger TC3/Survey Pro 5.1 with mine and it works great. It's a good light gun and very accurate and the Power Search works every time, but I would enjoy a little faster tracking and better auto searching with my next robot. I'm going to check out the S3/S6 and Focus 30 before my next purchase.
Kelly
I am a Spectra Dealer. We have sold the Focus 30 for about 3 years. I would be happy to answer any questions that you might have. Message me your email or phone number if you would like me to contact you.