Does anyone here own or have any experiences using the Trimble M3 3" reflectorless instrument. It is essentially the Nikon NPL-322 - I think. Looking to pick one up for myself
How does the file transfer work, any on-board software?
Any thoughts or experiences appreciated. Thanks
N10,000, E7,000, Z100.00
PLS - IL, MO, AR, KS, MN, KY
I too am interested in these responses as I am looking for a good LOW cost basic gun.
It is pretty much the same as a Nikon Nivo C or a Spectra Precision Focus 8. Not much in common with a NPL-332.
2 differences to the nivo (there are probably more)
1) Nivo/Focus 8 runs Survey Pro, M3 runs Trimble Access
2) Nivo/Focus 8 has no number keypad, touchscreen only. M3 has number keypad.
If you want to buy a 2nd hand Nivo C I have one for sale -
https://surveyorconnect.com/index.php?mode=thread&id=248078
Ah i see you were looking at the old M3 which is indeed similar to a NPL-332.
If it's the same as the NPL-332 then you can transfer files up and down using a serial cable and a program like hyperterminal. Nice little instrument, used one for years (NPL-332) - for the day it had a lot of in-built software for a low price. NOt sure what the software would be on an old M3.
As Squowse said, the old M3 is pretty much identical to the Nikon; the software is slightly different but not much. The original ones don't have Bluetooth, you have to cable up if you use a collector.
The new M3 is a sweet little gun; same basic platform as the Nivo C but with a better keyboard and Trimble Access onboard. They have a USB host port for transfer to a thumb drive.
The biggest thing you're getting with the M3 is Access; if you're going to use a data collector you're better off with a Spectra Focus 6, it's a lot cheaper.