Long time listener, first time caller.
I've had about 5 years experience with the
the Magellan/Thales Z-Max (previous employer's)
for multiple station static GPS logging, and found
the front panel set-up and removable SD cards to
make for a great work flow (for me).
I am looking for new and used options at this point.
Are any of you guys using or aware of more modern systems (smaller package)
which can accomplish this without a data collector required either
tethered to the unit or required for set-up?
You can take Static Obs with a Hiper without a data collector. There is no SD card, you have to plug the Hiper into the computer for download. But, not all Hipers have onboard memory, it's an ugrade.
I run PC-CDU on a tablet. I can capture the data stream from the HiperLite and create a RINEX file for OPUS.
No need for the memory "upgrade".
The Leica GS15 and GS14 can log static data without a data collector. Both units have a built-in web interface for controlling the settings in the receiver. The web interface is basically a built-in website that controls the receiver without a data collector. You can set the receiver to start logging static as soon as it is turned on and gains a position. You can also setup a wake-up session where the receiver will turn on and then off automatically at a given time period. Basically you can control everything via the web interface except RTK settings. The GS15 is scalable with different models and the GS14 comes fully loaded as a base/rover with static options. Both units have a SD card interface. The GS15 SD card is easy to remove and the GS14 SD card can be removed but it is actually a Micro SD and is under the battery compartment. In either case you would need one of the receivers and the GEV234 cable to interface with your PC.
You can also collect the static data straight into RINEX or also in the Leica MDB format. The RINEX feature is nice so that you can use any post-processing software or send it straight to OPUS.
We have a Hiper II system that you don't need a collector. It has SD card slots for memory. You just hit a button on the front to turn static off and on.
I have a Topcon GB-500 that works perfect for running static.
BLH:-D
I was just looking at something simlar with Trimbles "new" R10 setup.
It appears you can start logging data on power up.
Another fairly expensive option you could add to your list. :excruciating:
look at an epoch system, I have an Epoch 35 which I might sell. It stores Static to an SD card and is also nice for Network RTK. GNSS receiver. Not sure what you are looking for but email me if you are interested. Trimble will do the same but the autostart options are extra.
Be careful of using units that use SD cards. They are usually designed to use an SD card with max memory size in mind. SD card capacities keep on increasing & you may have a difficult time finding one that is compatible with your unit.
I had some experience with the Zmax units that you mentioned. It uses max 128mb SD cards. I think we tried 512/1 GB cards using the SD card reformat software. Unit would not read them. Not sure why. You could not format 512 mb or higher cards on the unit itself.
On the other hand, if it is an onboard memory module yunit you may have difficulty downloading the unit if PC hardware & software changes.:-$
Not to hijack, but could I connect to my GS15 using Bluetooth on my smart phone, and start a static session on the GS15? That would save having to carry the CS15 to a static setup. I am working on a big science project using OPUS Projects, and most of our new points are in secure locations. We have been setting up our Leica GS15 and SR 530 units on secure sites, and let them run for 3 days at a time. We observe on Benchmarks with the old Ashtech Z 12 receivers to bring in better vertical control.
> Are any of you guys using or aware of more modern systems (smaller package)
> which can accomplish this without a data collector required either
> tethered to the unit or required for set-up?
This probably isn't more modern, but the Trimble 4000ssi is an excellent receiver to use as a static base if you don't need logging at less than 5 second epochs. It has a nice keypad on the front panel that you run the thing from without needing any DC at all to enter antenna height et cet. Not a compact package, but probably there are quite a few to be had for bargain prices. With a ground plane antenna, I've had excellent results from mine.
my experience is that if you use an sd card that the manufacturer recommends, you will be fine. I always buy 2 and keep a spare. Havent ever filled one card up yet.