I did a search this morning, and read a lot of posts regarding this robot, but it seems the topic has been quiet for a while.
We have a 5603 DR200+ which is serving us well, and are now looking to add a second robot. I've heard that parts are no longer being made for the 5600 series - is this true? If so, it seems the next logical step up is the S-6. what should I be looking for in buying a used S-6? I see options like: DR Plus, multitrack prisms, active prisms, etc. We need both the robotic and reflectorless options, but I don't think the camera (on the S-8?) is neceesary. I need more info on the radio link - are these internal on the S-6? there are quite a bit of parts to the 5603 to connect and have working just right - how is the S-6 diiferent?
we're trying to keep all our equipment Trimble, due to having excellent local dealer support.
suggestions on what I need to look for?
many thanks - you folks are great!
Yes, the 5600 series is no longer made. It became blue for a while as a Spectra Precision Focus series for while, but I believe that is discontinued now as well.
The S6 uses internal batteries and a different internal radio. I believe at minimum, you'll need a TSC2 with an internal radio. This internal radio in the TSC2 will only run the S-series robots. You'll still need to connect the old Georadio to the TSC2 to run a 5600 series.
The S-series will track any prism. I would highly suggest you get the 360 multitrack target for the S-series. Its expensive, but worth it. The S-series will not track the 360 prism from the 5600 series. Also, the S-series prism uses the same battery as the GPS rovers, no more battery stick.
Since the S-series will track any prism, it is great for turning multiple sets when running control. If you do this and your accuracy requirements are high, get some nodal prisms for this purpose.
I used an S-8 High Precision without the onboard camera. I found NOTHING that gun couldn't do (survey wise 😉 )
thanks - what is the difference between a multi-track prism and an active prism?
we have the 360 degree pole prism as well as the backsight prism with the diode for our 5603 - is an active prism similar to the 360 degree prism?
> thanks - what is the difference between a multi-track prism and an active prism?
> we have the 360 degree pole prism as well as the backsight prism with the diode for our 5603 - is an active prism similar to the 360 degree prism?
This is my understanding of it (We use the multitrack prism in active mode): The passive tracking option is when you're tracking by means of the instrument getting a return from the glass. You can lose lock by getting false returns from nearby reflective objects as you move in front of them. You can use any standard prism (360° or not) with this option.
Active tracking is when the prism emits a signal of it's own along with a target ID to identify itself to the instrument and verify that it is actually the target being tracked. This requires some form of infrared transmitter on the prism side. I'm pretty certain that 5600 prism would not be compatible with the S Series/VX.
The multitrack prism is the best option for maintaining lock, it'll let you choose between active or passive tracking (and semi-active if you have an S8), and you can run multiple prisms simultaneously if you want, just keep your target IDs straight. It's a 360° prism with a built in IR transmitter and multiple ID selector. Runs on the standard camcorder battery that the GPS units use. Also has a removable cover on the top to put your GPS rover onto and do integrated surveying, which is pretty slick.
Active stands for the use of the diodes as with the 5603
Multitarget stands for the 8 channels you can set on the prism and the S6, that's one of the differences with the 5603 prism. You can have multiple S6 guns at the same site, each one will only track the prism it is configured for. We have 4 of them and used once 3 of them at the same site, without any problems.
I agree on the advantages of the Active Multitarget, when used in passive mode it tracks and shoots distances on my safetyvest!
There is also the option of the S3, one of the differences with the S6 is that it only works with passive prisms ... that's why we have the S6.
The S6 is a real work horse, fast and reliable.
Christof.
> The S6 is a real work horse, fast and reliable.
>
> Christof.
:good: I wholeheartedly agree. I would trade it for any other instrument.
Every time I use my S-6 I am glad I have it. It is a stone-cold solid work horse, and it is dead accurate. I wanted to upgrade to the MS-50, I am glad I stuck with S-6.
The issue with the S-6 using passive prism is really not that big of a deal where I work. Once in a while it will pick up something other than the prism, but the instrument is so accurate in the track mode (better than the Leica in track mode in my opinion) that I just use it on track, and if I am concerned about lock on something else I just tilt the rod a little and watch the instant reaction.
In addition, the laser guide lights are so bright and fine that if you see them with prism not all that far from your head, you are locked on prism. When I traded up from 5603 to S6, I was worried about random tracking, but it is not a nuisance at all for me.
Trimble has a good dealers who actually have shops instead of working out of their houses or truck cabs, and they can service you.
I will also have to brag on the S6. I've had mine since 2005, and it gets used just about every day on construction sites. Only problem I have with tracking is those damn reflective vests and barrels. I don't wear one, but if you are working around folks that are, the active target would probably be better.
Never had any problems with accuracy, stake a lot of bridges and curb with it.
Should have been "Wouldn't trade it...>
Get the multi-track prism with it. This gun is bad (good bad)! I think the video camera seems silly, but I have not used it either.
