Does anyone have experience with both units? I use the Trimble 4600, mostly for post process kinematic. What's the story on Locus and their software? Is it a better hardware and software than the Trimble 4600?

I had brief experience with the Trimble units on a project for one of my municipal clients last year. I needed a control network set up for a sewer study in this small town of about 5000. Hired a friend to supply the units, one man and post processing. I supplied myself, son and two vehicles. We ran 10 points, repeat occupations, in one day from 2 knowns. Data wasn't really tight enough for the man doing the processing so my son and I reoccupied the points another day. Good results, no complaints. The overall simplicity of this type of static work inspired me to take the plunge and buy into this great new technology. We scanned all the BB talk, magazines, etc., for as much info as possible. Also determined our immediate needs. The Locus system just kept jumping out at us. We have three Locus units, kinematic option, all hardware and software for about $14,000. The locus processing software has to be about as simple to use as a basic word processor. Some things could be added, like a means to review sv data quality for time trim, but all in all, first rate stuff.
Now, after 6 months of comparing my locus results with the network we built with the trimble units, I'm glad I bought the Locus. Simple, light weight, all in one "box", very cost effective...I could keep going but would sound like an advertisement.

J.D. Billings

J.D. Does that simple as a word processor software include the Least Squares adjustment?

Jon,

It took me about 10 projects, all small 2-4 control points, to feel confident with the Locus processing software. Now, after having checked into multitudes of Locus derived points by conventional ties, I am thoroughly confident in the hardware and software.
As for the "word processor" statement: I still can't build a decent letter head templet in MS Word that won't disintegrate if I pass line 54 on page one of a document.

J.D.


I need to mention that the trimble experience I had last year on the one project was my first and only hands on gps experience prior to purchasing the Locus system.

Modified By J.D. Billings on 3/6/2001 at 11:43 PM

Thanks for the input. I may purchase somemore units and I was wondering if it was worth the switch.