Trimble RTS - FieldLink "Field Calibration"

Trimble RTS - FieldLink "Field Calibration"

Field Calibration Overview

The purpose of a field calibration within Field Link is to check the main components that vary between RTS models. To start and complete a field calibration proceed with the following steps.
  1. To start a field calibration you're going to need to find a desolate area.
    1. Avoid heavy foot traffic areas that could block the line of sight
    2. Avoid heavy equipment that can cause great vibration
    3. Avoid reflective surfaces like galvanized steel and A/C Ducts
  2. Set Up RTS unit on tripod
    1. Ensure that the tripod legs are separated 24”- 32” from each other to create a stable base
    2. If you're set up on a dirt surface, step on the bottom of the tripod legs to ensure a secure foot placement into the ground.
    3. The RTS must be attached with bell assembly screw
    4. RTS must be leveled with tribrach bubble level or Face Display bubble levels
  3. Grab your prism pole and tablet with Field Link installed.
    1. Mount your prism on the prism pole
    2. The rod height for the prism must be within 2 feet above or below the RTS height
    3. Attach Data Collector to the prism pole
  4. Turn on your tablet or data collector
    1. Open Field Link
    2. Connect the tablet via radio to the RTS unit

    3. Open the Prism menu and select the target type drop down tab to select the prism. Must use a passive prism or set the prism into passive mode.
    4. Close the Prism menu
  5. Press CALIBRATE INSTRUMENT 

    1. Now walk in front of the RTS unit to lock on to the prism.
    2. Walk away from the RTS at the required minimum distance to start the field calibration, 65’ 7 ⅜” or slightly further.

    3. NOTE: Depending on RTS Model, Camera display may not be available.
  6. Place prism pole onto the ground.
    1. Plumb the prism pole using the attached bubble level
      1. Avoid placing the prism pole in front of other reflective objects
    2. Press the Measure button on the blue banner to start the calibration

      1. Once the field calibration has started the prism pole must stay in place
      2. Line of sight must not be obstructed between prism and RTS
      3. If the test fails restart the process ensure that none of the said reasons caused a failure
        1. The prism was higher or lower than the RTS
        2. The prism is not in passive prism or in prism mode
        3. Line of sight was obstructed
        4. Prism pole or RTS was moved during the field calibration process
      4. Once the test has been completed a green banner will appear on the screen stating “Field Calibration Successful” 
      5. A blue banner will appear as well stating what components were tested and the option to save a PDF document as a result


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