Gibson Surveying and Mapping Limited is now up and running and are in the process of purchasing two S6 total stations and a VRS system from Survey Solutions Limited in Loanhead near Edinburgh Scotland. These guys are the best in the UK hands down for Trimble equipment and support.
We were originally using the Trimble GPS VRS system but unfortunately there was no phone signal at all in this remote area.... We carried the S6 and equipment up 1000 ft in height and a total of 5 km in distance over two days. This was the only location where the vehicle could be used. We located and surveyed the cabling from the turbines to the sub station in the valley.... was a slog but got there eventually.
Is this his first attempt to setting up a total station? Try using the channel ID lock, if random reflectors are causing you grief. We use the multitrack prism assemblies at work. I love them, I can change between targets swiftly and with ease. I miss conventional surveying. The economy here has really affected that type of work here. I'm now working for a government contractor on an underwater piling operation on the lower Ohio river. The S6 has been a real life saver. :) Have a good day bro!
I haven't moved to the S6 yet. I'm still at the 5600 Robotic. It works really well so I don't see the need to cycle it out just yet. I did get a new R6 up from a 5800. If you want to check out something cool check out the new Richo Geo Camera. It has a GPS built into it. We just got one and it works awesome. You will need Arcview though. But it works good for inventory for those Wind Farms. Around 1400$ total package.
I use the Trimble 5600 Total Robotic and I loose lock really close also. But working 100ft or more it shoots really fast. I find that at time I set to control points and then just bust that thing out because it's so much faster. I just got a new R6 so I'll have to see how good that does in the bushes.
Great, I was reall impressed when your S6 locked the prism in the bushes (0:50)!! I myself use The Leica TCRA 1203+ total station, and must admit that it never locks a prism in such conditions) Good Luck!
I once did a small 200+ point survey along a road and without knowing it had locked onto a reflective sign post. Not until I downloaded the survey did I realise that all the points were a one position. I now have to constantly look at the distance reading to make sure it doesn't happen again... You have to admit though it is a very good instrument overall.
It also locks onto car lights. Working here in suburban Melbourne in Oz as opposed to northern hemisphere winters, we just turn the safety vests (don't have to wear jackets) inside out. If in doubt I keep my hand over the prism a few seconds and wait for "NO TARGET" from that incredibly annoying, yet useful voice.
"Thanks for noticing." lol... drove it over a Manhole which didn't have a secure cover on it on another site. Down she went... devastated. A costly repair.
S6 superb.... NOT.... it has a nasty habit of locking on to reflective jackets, lamposts and the best... JCB's with metallic paint... lol some days it can be a nightmare. Overall if you are not working on a construction site or near the road then this is the instrument for you.... lol joking.
