So I am about to pull the trigger on a Topcon QS robot. I have already decided on the FC-2500 controller. Last decision is what software to put on the DC. I will use the DC with an older Hiper as well, which is currently driven by a monochrome Ranger with 4-5 yr old TDS. I was just going to go with topsurv, as I figured it would drive all of the equipment the best, but we are working on moving CAD over to Carlson, so I am starting to think about the SurvCE. I guess either way I am going to learn new software. I have read both are a pretty easy transition from TDS. I figure the SurvCE would integrate with the Carlson office suite easier, but I am pretty used to transferring TXT or CSV files now, so the topsurv probably wouldn’t bother me much. I was a bit worried that the SurvCE may not drive the robot and/or GPS as well as the topsurv.
Anyone worked through this recently, or can comment on both packages?
Have the same setup . Used both programs on the FC . Went with Topsurv for a few reasons . Topsurv is so easy to use and fast , no compatabilty issues . Easier to see . User can change read outs on the stake out screen .
Carlson is powerful but I had issues with communication with robot and is hard to see on the FC.
There is no doubt in my mind that Topsurv is the best software to run that robot.
This is coming from a guy with no hair left from trying to run a 9003 with SurvCE.
Don't doubt these words or you'll get dragged into a major headache.:pissed:
Thank you for the real-world experience guys!
> So I am about to pull the trigger on a Topcon QS robot. I have already decided on the FC-2500 controller. Last decision is what software to put on the DC. I will use the DC with an older Hiper as well, which is currently driven by a monochrome Ranger with 4-5 yr old TDS. I was just going to go with topsurv, as I figured it would drive all of the equipment the best, but we are working on moving CAD over to Carlson, so I am starting to think about the SurvCE. I guess either way I am going to learn new software. I have read both are a pretty easy transition from TDS. I figure the SurvCE would integrate with the Carlson office suite easier, but I am pretty used to transferring TXT or CSV files now, so the topsurv probably wouldn’t bother me much. I was a bit worried that the SurvCE may not drive the robot and/or GPS as well as the topsurv.
>
> Anyone worked through this recently, or can comment on both packages?
I've only used the SurvCE from Carlson... I wish I could afford something else. Clunky and non-intuitive are the best things that I can say about it.
