I am looking for any input from those of you who may have or have used the Carlson GPS, Topcon Hiper V and the Topcon GR5 systems. I will be using the Base/Rover system rather than using just the Rover with a network and am wondering what pros/cons you may have found with these systems. One thing I am interested in is the range of each system. Thanks for any feedback.
I use a topcon gr3 with 915 spread spectrum radios. It depends on the location of your base setup. You want to get to the highest elevation close to your project and of course with plenty of open sky. I can get 4000 feet solid and up to a mile iffy. I used to wish I had uhf radios but I am now satisfied with the robust signal I get from the 915s.
I use topcon Ga's and they are the bomb...easy to use, super acurate and I have been out 4kms from the base (2.5 miles)...thats in flat terrain..hilly areas will reduce that some.
I run a Topcon GR-3 base/rover setup. It has the digital UHF radios. I can easily get 5 miles with it. I have maintained a fix to 7 miles, but that isn't normal. Keep in mind this is in Western Kansas with wide open country, setting on the highest point I can find, and dealing with gently rolling hills. The GR-3's are really tough. The GR-5's have a similar construction, so I believe they would be also be very durable. Haven't had any experience with the newer Hiper family. Traded in an old set of Hipers about 3 years ago. They were ok, but replacing batteries wasn't fun.
James