GPS World

Tag: data collection

  • Spectra Precision Introduces New and Enhanced Survey Solutions

    Spectra Precision introduced at INTERGEO this week new and enhanced products in its portfolio of survey solutions. With the new additions, survey and construction professionals have more positioning instrument choices to meet their job requirements, the company said.

    Spectra Precision made the announcement at INTERGEO 2015, the world’s largest conference on geodesy, geoinformatics and land management.

    The new and enhanced products include:

    Spectra Precision FOCUS 35 RX – A new range of motorized total stations providing high-speed, accuracy and precision in measurement. The FOCUS 35 RX robotic instrument moves the power of the observer from the instrument to the range pole, improving efficiency. The speed of observation and precise positioning of the FOCUS 35 RX Robotic Total Station is provided by patented StepDrive motion technology, which controls the horizontal and vertical motion of the motors, eliminating the need for traditional motion locks. The FOCUS 35 RX includes a tracking sensor that uses LockNGo FastTrack tracking technology, enabling the instrument to constantly lock onto the prism.

    The FOCUS 35 RX is available in 2”, 3” or 5” accuracies, features market leading extended operating time with its dual battery system and is controlled externally by Spectra Precision Ranger, Nomad, or T41 data collectors running Spectra Precision Survey Pro or Spectra Precision Layout Pro field software on the Ranger or Nomad.

    “The streamlined design, extremely light weight, very quick turning speed and exceptional battery life enhance the overall value-proposition of the FOCUS 35 RX and make this instrument a very compelling choice for a wide range of survey and construction applications,” said Olivier Casabianca, Spectra Precision Business Area Director. “With the introduction of the FOCUS 35 RX, Spectra Precision continues to expand and improve its portfolio with powerful solutions using new technologies.”

    Spectra Precision Nomad 1050 Data Collector — The Nomad 900 has been updated with new features and capabilities. The Nomad 1050 has more RAM, more Flash and more speed. The base processor is now 1 GHz compared to 806 MHz on Nomad 900 and the Nomad 1050 has 512-MB RAM and 8GB flash storage. The other major enhancement is a new 3.75-G dual-mode GSM and CDMA WWAN modem to provide fast and versatile connectivity for Spectra Precision customers. Also, the new WWAN module uses an internal antenna eliminating the need for an external antenna.

    Spectra Precision Survey Pro 5.7 Field Software — Constant improvement and enhancement continues with Survey Pro. Survey Pro version 5.7 contains significant changes to enable more productive field data collection. Included in this update are new map displays that enable viewing and managing most of the map features that are located on the main map display. The GNSS and robotic staking screens can also display a map view to include background maps along with the standard dynamic guidance control option. The GNSS offsets routine has been updated and now includes a distance-distance option. For those customers who wish to use GNSS and robotic simultaneously, there are now enhanced options for configuration and switching between modes.

    Spectra Precision Survey Office v3.60 Software — Spectra Precision Survey Office now includes enhanced functionality; support for the Spectra Precision FOCUS DL-15 Digital Level and the import of leveling data from any DiNi level; least squares and 5 and 7 parameter Helmert transformations with reports; Geoid 12B support and grouping by country in the Coordinate System Manager; Point Cloud support plus many more additional enhancements.

    Spectra Precision MobileMapper Field GIS Application for Android Devices — A new version of the popular MobileMapper Field GIS application now running on Android devices. This new software is dedicated to GIS data collection and focuses on simplicity to maximize the number of field personnel contributing to the geospatial business. Primarily for MobileMapper 300 users, the application will be the key component of Spectra Precision’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) solution. This makes it possible to pair Android tablets and/or smart phones with the MobileMapper 300 GNSS receiver to collect GIS data with survey-grade accuracy.

    “With the introduction of these new and enhanced products into the Spectra Precision portfolio, survey and construction professionals have a wider range of economical choices to get the job done,” said Olivier Casabianca. “These new Spectra Precision optical products complement the ground-breaking line of Spectra Precision solutions, enabling Spectra Precision to offer a complete range of survey products.”

  • TerraGo Edge 3.7 Combines Smart Forms, Advanced GPS for Mobile Data Collection

    TerraGo Edge 3.7 Combines Smart Forms, Advanced GPS for Mobile Data Collection

    Screengrab: TerraGo Edge 3.7TerraGo Edge version 3.7, now available, includes new intelligent, responsive forms, as well as GPS and GIS enhancements designed to dramatically improve the speed, quality and efficiency of asset inspections, land surveys and any location-based data-collection project.

    TerraGo Edge smart forms can accelerate the data-collection process by automating and accelerating user entries while eliminating unnecessary or redundant steps. Smart forms can be customized to meet the workflow requirements of customers in any industry.

    New features in version 3.7 include:

    Advanced Form Creation with New Smart Forms

    Form groups – new form element to organize multiple related fields
    Conditional fields – additional fields appear based on user entry of other fields
    Barcode and QR code support – instantly scans codes to eliminate manual entry
    Calculated fields – calculated result field based on other form field values
    Multiple form attachments – ability to attach two or more forms to a single Note

    Enhanced GPS and GIS Integration

    High-Accuracy CHC GPS integration – X20i (Sub-foot WAAS), X91i (Centimeter)
    Esri ArcGIS Online enhancements — access to custom basemaps

    Read about the complete list of features in the Release Notes.

    TerraGo Edge v3.7 can be downloaded for iOS or Android.

  • Esri and Leica Geosystems Combine for Mobile Data Collection

    The Leica Geosystems ZenoCollector2 comes with Esri Collector for ArcGIS.
    The Leica Geosystems ZenoCollector2 comes with Esri Collector for ArcGIS.

    Esri Collector for ArcGIS, a configurable mobile app for collecting and editing data in the field, has combined with the Zeno 20, Leica Geosystems’ ultra-rugged Android-based professional-grade handheld, in a new solution called ZenoCollector. ZenoCollector uses Collector for ArcGIS as its main user interface and comes bundled with an ArcGIS Online organizational subscription for one year.

    “Esri and Leica Geosystems recognize that enterprises may have particular field data collection challenges that smartphones can’t ideally meet,” said Esri president Jack Dangermond. “We’re excited to combine Collector for ArcGIS with Leica Geosystems’ industry-standard surveying units to create a more rugged and accurate solution for the more exacting needs of organizations.”

    ArcGIS Online connects ZenoCollector to the ArcGIS platform, automatically syncing field changes to enterprise information and giving everyone access to the latest data gathered in the field. Collector for ArcGIS also supports offline data collection. Any updates will be synchronized with the map once the user is reconnected.

    “We’re excited to raise mobile data collection solutions to the next level of precision and interoperability through rigorous connectivity between our survey-grade Leica Zeno series and Esri’s GIS solutions,” said Hexagon Geosystems President Juergen Dold. “This industry collaboration between Leica Geosystems and Esri is another joint commitment to make it easier for professionals around the world to capture, manage, and share their data, regardless if they’re in the office or the field, without sacrificing precision or interoperability.”

    Although Collector for ArcGIS is most often used on smartphones, field crews may need higher precision that only a dedicated survey device can deliver. ZenoCollector contains a professional-grade GNSS receiver that provides significantly higher position accuracies than GPS receivers on smartphones and other handheld GIS devices on the market.

    Leica’s Zeno series devices are also waterproof, even with the latch open, suiting the requirements of organizations operating in wet environments that would stress the tolerances of consumer-grade mobile devices.

    The announcement was made at the Esri User Conference, being held this week in San Diego.

     

  • Carlson Software Debuts BRx5 GNSS Receiver, Surveyor2 at InterGeo

    Bruce Carlson, president of Carlson Software, and William “Butch” Herter talk about the company’s new BRx5 GNSS Receiver and Surveyor2 data collector, among others, while at InterGeo 2014, held October 7-9 in Berlin.

    View our YouTube playlist for more InterGeo videos.

  • Juniper’s New Rugged Handheld Designed for Data-Collecting Efficiency

    The Allegro 2 by Juniper Systems. Photo: Juniper Systems
    The Allegro 2 by Juniper Systems. Photo: Juniper Systems

    Juniper Systems announced its newest rugged handheld computer, the Allegro 2, at the InterGeo 2014 trade show, held September 7-9 in Berlin. The handheld is the latest in the company’s Allegro product line, “with every bit of reliability,” the company says, but now with some major advancements.

    According to Juniper Systems, the Allegro 2 was designed for data-intensive applications, with meticulous attention paid to the engineering and design of the handheld to maximize efficiency and precision, both of which are critically important to high-volume data collection.

    Compared to the Allegro 1, the Allegro 2 has a newly designed keyboard in a QWERTY and numeric layout, with large, glove-friendly buttons for rapid — even non-visual — data entry. The new handheld features a custom Sun-to-Shade display that is 20 percent larger than the previous Allegro. It offers excellent visibility in any lighting conditions, the company said.

    The Allegro 2 is powered by an Overtime Technology battery, providing a 20+ hours of runtime. Its touchscreen uses capacitive technology, providing excellent durability, as well as crystal-clear imagery and greater sensitivity to touch, Juniper Systems said. The Allegro 2 has significantly enhanced GNSS performance, extended Bluetooth range, camera and video options, and a more powerful processor than the Allegro 1.

    “The Allegro 2 is our next-generation product, and it includes all of the latest enhancements available in its sister product, the Archer 2,” said John Florio, product manager at Juniper Systems. “The Allegro 2 was built from the ground up, based on user feedback on the jobs they have to do. Whether the customer is grading lumber in a log scaling yard, running a robotic total station, or performing a close-interval pipeline survey, the Allegro 2 is the best solution for the field today.”

    The Allegro 2 is scheduled to begin shipping in November.

     

     

  • Topcon Introduces Field Controller for Advanced Data Collection

    Topcon Positioning Group announces a new data controller — the FC-500 — with numerous features and benefits, including a large 4.3-inch touchscreen display and 5MP camera with built-in LED flash.

    The FC-500 is designed for the professional operating Topcon MAGNET Field, Site and Layout software and Topcon’s Pocket 3D.

    Ray Kerwin, director of global surveying products, said, “The FC-500 works with all Topcon GPS/GNSS receivers and total stations, and meets or exceeds all field application requirements.  Additionally, the FC-500 works with the new Topcon LN-100 instrument dedicated to BIM and one-person construction layout, simplifying workflow with the seamless integration with our MAGNET suite of software solutions.”

    Kerwin said, “With a sunlight readable screen, the controller is easy to use even in bright sunlight.  It is the ideal job site controller in any condition (waterproof up to one meter, IP68 rating) and the large camera format with built-in LED flash and built-in 8GB flash storage allows the storing of hundreds of job site photos.”

    The standard model has both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, while the FC-500 GEO has Bluetooth, WiFi and GPS.  A third model comes with the addition of a 3.5G cellular modem that allows access to the MAGNET Enterprise Solutions suite, “making the FC-500 the perfect field instrument for sending and receiving data files to the MAGNET cloud,” Kerwin said.

    For the GIS professional using MAGNET Field software, the FC-500 has a geotagging feature that allows imprinting file information, including GPS location, directly on photos.

  • Trimble’s GeoExplorer GNSS Data Collection Adds Remote Positioning Capability

    Trimble’s GeoExplorer GNSS Data Collection Adds Remote Positioning Capability

    Photo: Trimble

    Trimble has introduced the next generation of its Trimble GeoExplorer data collection solution. The new Geo 7X includes an integrated laser rangefinder module, extended GNSS capabilities and improved hardware performance. Together with robust field and office software, the new Trimble Geo 7X handheld can enhance productivity in difficult physical conditions and challenging GNSS environments.

    When faced with either obstructed satellites or inaccessible locations, GIS professionals now have the geospatial data collection tools they need in a single package, Trimble said. For times when occupying a position isn’t possible, users can take advantage of Trimble’s new Flightwave technology. With Flightwave technology, users can capture offset measurements from the Geo 7X’s rangefinder module for direct integration with Trimble data collection software. Users point and shoot to log the position, avoiding dangerous conditions or right-of-way challenges. In addition, Trimble’s field-proven Floodlight technology enhances field productivity when heavy overhead cover obstructs satellite signals.

    Photo: TrimbleThe Geo 7X is compatible with existing and planned GNSS satellite systems — including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and BeiDou — to maximize productivity with additional satellites and ranging signals.

    Featuring a new 1 GHz processor and 4 GB of memory running Microsoft Windows 6.5 Professional operating system, the Geo 7X offers enhanced computing performance. Other standard features include a 4.2 inch sunlight readable LED touch display and a 5 MP camera for geo-tagging assets. For wireless connectivity, the integrated modem allows users to send and receive data via GSM networks as well as Verizon’s CDMA network in the U.S. And with its IP65 rating, the rugged handheld GNSS receiver is sealed against water and dust.

    With the introduction of the Geo 7X, Trimble also delivers updates to its field and office software portfolio to extend Trimble’s end-to-end data collection solutions with new software workflows and compatibility. In addition to the field-proven Trimble TerraSync and Positions software, the Geo 7X now supports the customizable data collection workflows of Trimble TerraFlex software. Consisting of mobile software and Cloud services, TerraFlex offers a fast and efficient way to collect, process and manage data. Field data is automatically synced with a central server to streamline office operations and drive higher productivity.

    ”We believe that true productivity is being able to map assets — the first time, every time and anywhere. We’ve built upon our productivity-enabling Floodlight technology and pushed it forward several steps,” said Alain Samaha, business area director of GIS and geospatial software solutions for Trimble’s Geospatial Division. “Users now can position themselves in the optimal location and accurately measure assets remotely with a single, integrated device together with simple software workflows. The Trimble Geo 7X allows mobile GIS users to be productive wherever they need to work.”

    Photo: TrimbleThe Trimble Geo 7X and supporting software are expected to be available in fourth quarter of 2013 through Trimble’s authorized GIS Distribution Channel.

  • Altus Positioning Introduces GIS-1 for Data Collection

    Altus Positioning Introduces GIS-1 for Data Collection

    Photo: Altus Positioning Systems
    Photo: Altus Positioning Systems

    Altus Positioning Systems is expanding its line of GNSS surveying products with the introduction of the GIS-1, a versatile personal digital assistant (PDA) for data collection and geolocation.

    The GIS-1 is a powerful PDA that integrates modern wireless technologies on a rugged Windows Mobile platform for effective portable computing for mobile survey applications. It can be used as a data collection device with Altus’ APS-series GNSS survey instruments, providing up to eight hours of operation time in the field between charges. In addition, the unit’s built-in L-1 GPS receiver and 3.2 megapixel camera can be used for navigation and GIS applications. It can even be used as a smartphone.

    “The GIS-1 is a versatile tool for surveyors and GIS professionals,” said Neil Vancans, president of Altus Positioning Systems. “With the Windows  Mobile operating system, it supports a wide range of software applications for data collection. By itself, the GIS-1 is a convenient low-cost GPS navigation device with 2.5-meter accuracy.”

    “It’s ideal for GIS work,” Vancans added. “The user can quickly and easily locate assets with 2.5-meter accuracy with the GIS-1, then switch to the APS-3 for more precise RTK work if needed.”

    The GIS-1 supports a wide range of wireless options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a Tri-Band GSM/GPRS/EDGE/HSPA cellular modem.

  • Data Collector

    Data Collector

    The Nexteq T8C by Nexteq Navigation is a multi-functional GIS data collector that integrates voice recording, photo, cellular voice and data, Bluetooth, and a microSD slot into a lightweight and durable package. Combined with a long-lasting battery, an outdoor-readable three-inch color LCD touchscreen, and waterproof/dustproof protection, the T8C offers users a solution for field work. Equipped with NexGeo data collection software running on Windows Mobile 6.5, the T8C provides users with an open, flexible, and scalable solution applications. The T8C also supports third-party Windows Mobile applications.

    The built-in high-sensitivity SiRF Star IV GPS receiver provides real-time positions for applications in harsh environments with better than 2-meter accuracy with SBAS coverage. An external GPS antenna can further improve the positioning capability.

  • ArcGIS for Windows Mobile Simplifies Field Data Collection

    Esri has released ArcGIS for Windows Mobile 3.1, coinciding with the release of Trimble Positions field collection software. The Trimble Positions software suite extends the ArcGIS for Windows Mobile application and software developer kit (SDK) with support for high-accuracy GNSS mobile GIS data collection.

    The Trimble Positions software suite is designed for users who require high-accuracy data collection workflows using Esri’s ArcGIS for Windows Mobile technology. The latest version of ArcGIS for Windows Mobile, combined with Trimble Positions software, simplifies field collection activities and requires little to no GNSS or GIS data collection experience, Esri said. ArcGIS for Windows Mobile and Trimble Positions support both real-time and postprocessing workflows, streamlining the process of collecting GPS data.

    With ArcGIS for Windows Mobile, data collected with Trimble Positions can be automatically synced to an enterprise server when Trimble Positions Desktop is used to manage data from incoming field crews. Office administrators can easily check for new sessions, differentially correct the data, and verify that it meets accuracy requirements before updating the enterprise database at the touch of a button, Esri said.

  • Trimble Adds Two Handhelds to GIS Data Collection Portfolio

    Trimble introduced today the Trimble Geo 5 and Juno 5 handheld GNSS devices, further extending Trimble’s portfolio for data collection, maintenance and inspection applications. The Geo 5 and Juno 5 series are both optimized for GIS field workflows, including Trimble’s TerraSync field software available on all Trimble GIS platforms.

    Since 1994, the Trimble GeoExplorer line of GNSS handhelds has been used for professional GIS data-collection applications. While the GeoExplorer 6000 series is the most capable Trimble handheld for GIS data collection, not all customers require the larger screen and innovative Floodlight technology of the 6000 series. The Geo 5 provides the essential functions for all day, submeter productivity in a smaller package, Trimble said.

    The Trimble Juno product line is used worldwide for maintenance, inspections and asset management applications. With the addition of the Juno 5 series, Trimble is providing a rugged handheld that delivers the capabilities and convenience of a smartphone, Trimble said. The Juno 5’s slim, ergonomic design is thinner and lighter than other rugged computing products in its class today and provides a more advanced feature set than the Juno 3 series.

    “Whether users are engaged in initial data-collection tasks or inspection of assets, it is critical they have a complete solution they trust,” said Daniel Wallace, general manager of Trimble’s GIS Data Collection Division. “Now with two platforms in both the Geo and Juno families, customers can confidently choose a handheld that best fits their needs. Trimble TerraSync software is the unifying workflow that brings these choices together, so customers can always trust the quality of their data throughout the complete lifecycle of a field management project.”

    Complete with wireless communications options, integrated cameras and bright, sunlight-readable screens, both devices are built for work in the field and rugged enough to withstand shock, vibration, water and dust.

  • Toyota, Denso Develop Device for Real-time Vehicle Data Collection

    Toyota Motor Corporation and DENSO Corporation are jointly developing an on-board communications network device, CAN-Gateway ECU, that can take data gathered while driving and apply it to create a virtual simulation that enables a new way to enjoy driving.

    The CAN-Gateway ECU captures driving data — including GPS data, accelerator pedal strokes, steering angles, brake operation signals, gear shift signals, engine rpm count, water temperature, and vehicle speed — from a dedicated on-board GPS as well as CAN information exchanged among on-board ECUs. The device can wirelessly transmit (by Bluetooth) the data to software installed on smartphones or other devices for real-time monitoring. As this data is accumulated, it can serve as a driving coaching guide.

    Furthermore, software makers can use the data to create games or a wide variety of other software using standard creation tools, with no need to deal with the complicated nature of the onboard CAN protocol.

    The CAN-Gateway ECU can be fitted to the Toyota “86” rear-wheel-drive compact sports car. It is scheduled to be tested in Japan in spring 2013 by people active in car racing, before the scheduled Japan launch at the end of 2013.

    Further development is under way to enable vehicle data from drives on major circuits in Japan such as Fuji Speedway to be recorded onto USB flash drives for input into the racing game Gran Turismo, a PlayStation 3 home entertainment console title. Driving scenarios can then be recreated with the data and run simultaneously with other data to enjoy real-time, side-by-side track-run comparisons. Additionally, the user can reproduce aspects of a drive on a circuit such as the steering path taken, and where and when the brakes and accelerator were used, in the game for analysis and critique.

    USB memory data format and Bluetooth transmission protocol will be finalized after Toyota and DENSO review feedback with Polyphony Digital Inc., Densan System Co., Ltd. and other software makers, taking their expertise into account before specifications are finalized. Following this, information necessary for connecting to the CAN-Gateway ECU will be gradually made available to other software makers, DENSO said, thereby allowing for even broader development of software that explores new ways of enjoying cars.