Topography - Terrestrial Laser Scanner Trimble GX

Parameter to be measured:

optional: handheld operation unit (TSC2), Wireless kit

nominal currently (2009) one of the most precise TLS on the market (angular and distance resolution, laser footprint)
green laser works better on snow and moist surfaces than IR lasers
both operation software options PointScape (Windows) and PocketScape (Windows Mobile) are intuitive and well designed
PointScape enables scanning selected polygons (opposed to rectangular selections, saves time)
support of target spheres (beside flat targets)
SureScan option: automatic adjustment of angular resolution during scanning to achieve homogeneous spatial resolution
carrying backpack enables cross-country transport (not including tripod, batteries and targets)

bulky and heavy: transport in the original box as ordinary flight baggage not possible; carrying in the field is painful
limited scan distance: typical distance in the field is less than 250 m
limited scan speed: typical speed < 500 points/s
poor camera with heavy distortion in live view; bright scenes (snow under sun) can appear completely blinded
painful selection of scan polygon when spanning more than the current angle of view
polygon scan area selection not available in PocketScape
high power consumption: standard battery pack usually lasts 2 - 3 hours, occasional shutdown on low battery without warning observed
start-up time of ~ 3 min
runs on 24 Volts - car battery adapter is included, but needs two batteries
no tilt-mount available; for looking up-/downward, though setting up scanner inclinated on tripod is possible within limits

Laser is not eye safe, take care
fit of target spheres can be very poor (without warning); verify or repeat in alternative software
reflective targets seem to be "overexposed" (at least at shorter distances) and cannot be used
laser beam can partially penetrate PE target spheres
minimum range ~ 2 m
cables attached to moving part of scanner - danger of "strangling" during rotation
check if you really need the handheld operation unit TSC2: operability is usually better on a larger screen of a real laptop

with Wifi-kit ~ 120000 € (2009, Germany)

Projects that used the above equipment:

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