I was wondering if anyone on this board is using Spectra Precision's Focus 30 or the Topcon QS Series. I'm starting to gather information and prices on these two robots and was wondering if anyone has any experience with these new ones.
Gary
I saw and tried out a Spectra Precision gun in the hallway at the PLSO Convention last week. My initial reaction was that, while there are some sort of neat features in the software, my Trimble 5603s are working just fine.
I bought a Topcon 9003 last year with the FC2500 which I run Carlson SurvCE. I've worked out most of the Carlson issues, but have had radion issues with the FC 2500 and the robot. It appears Topcon has had same issues and moved the antena to the top of the rod. At least i would have to stand on my tailgate to get the radio connection over the hump in the road.
I would seriously look at the Leica 1200 series the price has came down a lot and my experience with them they are much better than Topcon or Spectra.
In a good environment the Topcon works great, but here we are pretty well wooded and hilly.
I like it, but should have bucked up for the Leica.
I live in hilly and wooded terrain as well. Currently running a 5603 that I really like, but it is 9 years old and a couple of years ago I had to spend $7500 to replace the EDM and some other misc repairs. I'm happy with it, but I figure I can sell it now while it still works well and get a decent price, and apply that to a new robot with a 3 year warranty. Plus there are specials for 0% for 24 months.
Good information about the Topcon. I might see if there are any Focus 10's (5603's)still available, that way I can make use of my extra batteries, cable, etc. I have for the 5603.
But still want to try out the Topcon and Spectra models.
If you replaced the boards - and it was done right - you probably have no reason to expect that you will necessarily be replacing other parts. So I wouldn't trade in a 5603 for that reason.
Some of these new guns have smaller batteries with longer lives and lighter, more potent radios. That would be a reason to make a switch.
I am kinda looking a a Robot too this year. I got some initial info, and the guy I was talking to said that yes the Topcons have had a few problems mostly with radio lacking in the past, he is impressed by the new QS. His opinion was that Trimble probably has teh best robot for the last few years, but that no other manufacturer could touch the QS for uptime and productivity.
Take that with a grain of salt, he is a salesman, but they carry a bunch of different lines, so he has experience with more then just the QS.
A new QS with DC, radios and ready to go will run you about $25k I hear.
What's a trimble S6 or S8 running these days? have their prices come down?
S8 new listed at around 40K
I bought a 5603 a couple of years ago, new. What a mistake. I could have saved a bundle buying used. Never again. Next time, if there is a next time, it'll be used.