We have a Trimble Pro XRS backpack GPS unit and TSC1 with Asset Surveyor software (Sub-Meter GPS)
They are fairly old uits, but have been real work horses over the years.
Is there any data that needs to be downloaded to the data collector or firmware to ensure the unit is working with as many satellites as possible, given that technology has changed quite a bit in the last 13 years?
In tree canopy I am getting weird results.
Unable to maintain lock on more than 3 or 4 satellites. The satellite view map is erratic, in other words the number of satellites in view above my elevation mask changes. There might be 5, then 3, then 6, ect.
I was under the impression that once you have locked onto 1 or 2 satellites, the unit records the emphemeris data and should have a real good handle on what should be in view above your elevation mask.
I did let it "cook" for 5 minutes in the open and was able to maintain lock of 5-7 satellites. However, I could not use the unit under tree canopy, even walking along a road.
Being a sub-meter unit, it has always been very forgiving under tree canopy.
I am going to download the latest almanac, but wondered if there is anything else I can do. I checked the Trimble web-site and apparently since these units were manufactured in 2000, they do not qualify for any updated firmware.
I had the same unit for several years. It is great for corner search or other less accurate applications. Performance under canopy was always a crap shoot though. Set it out in the open for about a half hour to ensure you have a complete new almanac. Check your planning software before venturing under canopy to ensure you operating with the maximum number of SV.
Thanks, I'm going to do some mission planning and give it one more try tomorrow.
Yup. We had to trash ours several years ago when the TSC1 wouldn't pick up the new omni-star correction and was going to require a 4k data collector. It collects dust in an all but destroyed pelican case. I keep it in case I figure out how to use the antenna and collect data as L1 and process against the base, but as of yet, I haven't figured it out. No firmware or software updates available. Like you, ours worked and worked and worked and on the big GIS projects, ultimately made more money than our 5700 until recently, and the XRS has been out of service for a few years.
