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Hi Gain Bluetooth Dongle on the DC

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Hoosier Surveyor
(@hoosier_surveyor)
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I am using an RT4 with SurvPC7 and max out at connection to total station at 450'. I am fairly certain that the limitation is on the DC and not the gun (Zoom 90 with LR ZRT82 handle) as the gun is rated at 400m.

Has anyone tried a hi gain bluetooth dongle (see attached image) to increase the range of their DC? Maybe get it mounted high on the rod?

I am seeking to reach 700'.  I have done the usual troubleshooting: Using bluetooth from gun LR handle and not internal, turn off DC wifi and cellular, no external interference (bean field in the middle of nowhere).  

Experiences? Ideas?

 


 
Posted : August 12, 2025 7:50 am
jhframe
(@jim-frame)
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I've never tried a USB variant, but I've been using a Parani SD1000 (RS232 9-pin serial) adapter with a 5dBi antenna for about 15 years now.  With my Zoom80 I regularly get over 1,000 feet with no trouble.


 
Posted : August 12, 2025 8:10 am
Hoosier Surveyor
(@hoosier_surveyor)
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So you just setup the connection as a serial cable? Match dip switches for channel selection? Do you use upgraded antennas? What is power consumption like? Can you connect to external power? I am aware of these, but have never tried them.

Thanks for the input.


 
Posted : August 12, 2025 8:21 am