Posted by Lori Gandelman on Sun, Feb 19, 2012 @ 11:52 PM
Last year, representatives of a wide variety of industries and companies joined together to form the Coalition to Save Our GPS. It's purpose was to resolve a serious threat to the reliability and viability of the Global Positioning System (GPS) - a national utility upon which millions of Americans rely every day.
To safeguard GPS, the Coalition sought a number of remedies from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which had granted a waiver to a company called LightSquared that allowed them to repurpose the satellite spectrum immediately neighboring that of the GPS.
LightSquared planned to transmit ground-based radio signals that would be one billion or more times more powerful as received on earth than GPS's low-powered satellite-based signals, potentially causing severe interference impacting millions of GPS receivers - including those used by the federal agencies, state and local governments, first responders, airlines, mariners, civil engineering, construction and surveying, agriculture, and everyday consumers in their cars and on handheld devices.
CSDS is pleased to report that the Coalition's efforts were rewarded when the FCC announced earlier this week that it will not approve LightSquared's proposal to build a national 4G-LTE network after testing showed that the network would interfere with most existing GPS devices.
Posted by Lori Gandleman on Thu, Feb 02, 2012 @ 01:09 AM
In recent years much em
phasis has been placed on collaboration and the ability emerging technology gives teams to interact and change the way they work together. In the wide-format printing industry this is particularly true, as HP has developed a new generation of plotters that not only produce high quality images at fast speeds, but also feature wireless connectivity and the ability to print direct from a thumb-drive without being connected to a computer. The result is increased effectiveness and efficiency for businesses. However, with the wide variety of printers on the market and a vast array of features to choose from, it's not always easy to determine the printer that's best for you. To get you started, below are 4 factors to consider:
1. Postscript vs. Non-postscript
If asked up front, a majority of AEC professionals will indicate they would prefer to purchase a postscript vs. non-postscript plotter, even though many really don't know the difference between the two. However, the exceptional quality afforded by a postscript printer also comes with a larger price tag, causing some people to reconsider. While a postscript printer is definitely the best choice for professionals who utilize graphics software, the capabilities it provides are not utilized by everyone. This being said, the consumer needs to consider whether to spend money on a feature that may not be needed? The question you want to ask yourself is "what will this plotter be used for 90% of the time?"
2. How do you communicate with co-workers and other professionals outside of your workplace?
Do you work for a large organization with multiple offices that regularly share plans and other documents? If so, you probably deploy much of your project information via tablets and other mobile devices that can be used in the field. But how do you print those documents, especially plans, once you've made changes and want to disseminate them to sub-contractors and others. Are you still printing them from one location and shipping to select individuals? If so, take time to learn more about printers that offer the technology to allow users to share documents more efficiently.
3. What type of medias do you print on?
Not all wide-format paper is created equal so it is important you not only use high-quality print media that will produce optimal output, but that you also select the appropriate printer for that media. For instance, some plotters are better than others for printing on substrates, such as vinyl or canvas. This being said, be diligent in your research. Take time to assess the needs of your office and learn what printers are recommended for the type of work you do. Also, study the media options available to you and make sure you know exactly what you are getting. Too often people let price dictate their purchase decision and they are disappointed when they don't get the output they were expecting. Bond, for example, is produced in a variety of weights and brightness levels and your output will be determined by the product you choose and the device it is printed on. If resolution and precision lines will determine the product you purchase, test a file on several printers and medias and compare the results. You might be surprised to find that the printer you thought you wanted is not the best solution for your needs.
4. Who will support your printer?
Once you decide on a printer, it's time to consider who will provide your service and support. This is an area where you really want to do your homework because when your printer is down, it's crucial to have a qualified technician who can provide an accurate diagnosis and promptly return your machine to optimal working condition. Look for a company who is an authorized sales and service provider for the brand of printer you are purchasing. Ask how many technicians they have, the years of experience they possess and if they have wide-format experience. Inquire about special certifications and designations the service department holds. Many manufacturers have tiers of service that distinguish one level of service provider from another. A top-tier service provider is typically held to shorter response times, higher first-time fix rates and nearly perfect customer satisfaction ratings; all metrics which help to ensure you will receive exceptional service.
While there are many factors to think about when you purchase a new wide-format printer, the four we have discussed in this post should be given prime consideration before you begin narrowing down your choices. Still have questions?
On February 21, 2012, CSDS and HP will conduct a free 1-hour webinar on the new Technical Series of Designjet printers. We'll address the items above and much more. Register today and be entered in our drawing for a free Apple iPad 2! Plus, the first 20 to register and attend the entire webinar will receive a $25 gift card.
Posted by Lori Gandleman on Thu, Jan 12, 2012 @ 06:55 PM
If you've been looking to get into high-speed laser scanning but were intimidated by the learning curve and relatively high costs involved with this emerging technology, your wait is over. With the Faro Focus 3D laser scanner, scanning is as easy as 1-2-3...literally!
Unlike conventional scanners, the Faro Focus 3D does not require an external computer because the user interface is all on-board. Its compact size and intuitive control concept with touchscreen display allows users to point, shoot and export data in 3 simple steps, making it as easy to use as a digital camera.
With the Faro Focus 3D, all set-up is fast and efficient - and no special targets are needed. In fact, printable black and white targets can be used for registration, eliminating the need for special targets typically required with conventional scanners. And, all point cloud data collected can be processed more easily into formats compatible with Revit, Navisworks, AutoCAD and other standard BIM and design applications.
Want to learn more? Attend a FREE hands-on seminar:
Find out why this affordable, precise and revolutionary simple scanner is gaining popularity among your peers by attending a free hands-on seminar at one of our three northern California locations.
Posted by Lori Gandleman on Tue, Jan 10, 2012 @ 05:30 PM
Keeping employees up-to-date and trained on the latest surveying equipment, mapping devices and related software is a major expediture of time and money for employers...but it doesn't have to be. With California Surveying & Drafting Supply's new online video training courses, cloudDVDs, companies can train individuals or groups of employees at a fraction of the cost of instructor-led training.
What are cloudDVDs?
A cloudDVDs is a modern, much more capable, virtual version of a traditional book. A cloudDVD is not limited to static text and images, nor is it bound by physical constraints. Rather, a cloudDVD is dynamic; it exists online, in "the cloud," and is most often made up of a combination of crystal clear instructor-led HD video, interactive animations, downloadable documents, text and graphics.
A cloudDVD collection is stored in a password-protected digital library, and is available to you anywhere you have access to the internet, including through a smart phone. An employer can purchase hours of viewing time, and assign a specific number of hours to each employee or have them grouped together. Any available cloudDVD title can be added to your library, and any unused hours expire after one year.
What type of content is available on cloudDVDs?
A wide variety of cloudDVD courses are available to train both novice and experienced users. Choices can be made from the following categories:
- Human Resources
- Microsoft
- MicroStation
- Spectra Precision
- Trimble
- Technical
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- Adobe
- Autodesk
- Business
- Education
- Google
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Sounds great, so how do I get started and begin accessing my Digital cloudDVD Library?
Click here to be directed to the CSDS cloudDVD training site. Once you make your selection(s) and provide payment, your cloudDVDs will be digitally delivered to your own personal Digital cloudDVD Library which you login to using the credentials you created at checkout. There are no physical copies of cloudDVDs delivered, all cloudDVD content is streamed directly to your computer or mobile device. You can access it via your smart phone by downloading easy-to-use (iPhone and Android) apps, or from any computer anywhere - all you need is a web browser.
FREE cloudDVD trial!
CSDS cloud DVD's are a convenient, mobile and cost-effective way to hone the skills of your employees, but don't take our word for it. We're offering a complimentary training session on select Trimble topics to the first 25 people to respond to this offer. Don't delay....this offer won't last long!
Posted by CSDS Blog on Tue, Dec 20, 2011 @ 01:29 PM
Is your message catching the eye of your customers?
At the new Century Graphics location in Roseville, we can help you succeed in capturing attention with:
- High-quality color posters
- Banners
- Tradeshow graphics
- POP Displays
- Fabric signs
- Window graphics
- Signage for retail and promotional events.
By offering a wide variety of printing options and services, our team of reprographic professionals can help you design and produce everything needed to promote your business or next special event.
Team moms and members of the general public will also find Century Graphics a great resource for customized soccer and baseball banners, photo enlargements and more. Cost effective and durable, banners and photos can be produced to most any size, on a variety of materials, for either indoor or outdoor use.
SMALL-FORMAT PRINTING & FINISHING SERVICES
While Century Graphics specializes in large-format printing, we also offer the following small-format printing and finishing services:
- Flyers
- Brochures
- Manuals
- Postcards
- Business cards
- Lamination
- Folding and stapling
- GBC, post or coil binding
Century Graphics in Roseville is located at 378 N. Sunrise Blvd #200 (next to Bob's Cycle Center and across from the Roseville Automall). We encourage you to drop by, meet our staff and learn about the many services we offer.
SPECIAL OFFER:
As an incentive to visit our new facility and try our services, Century Graphics is offering a free 24" x 36" color enlargement to customers who come in during the month of December. Click here to download your FREE coupon!
Posted by CSDS Blog on Wed, Sep 28, 2011 @ 02:03 PM
Information regarding a number of new Trimble products was released today at the InterGeo 2011 Conference in Nuremberg, Germany. Here's a quick look at the new technology coming your way:
Trimble S6 Robotic Total Station with Trimble VISION Technology
Now available with Trimble VISION technology, the Trimble S6 Total Station enables surveyors to remotely see and measure through a live video feed from the instrument on their data controller. By integrating survey data with the live video, surveyors can verify their work and ensure that they have captured everything before leaving the job. The calibrated camera allows users to easily integrate images into their survey workflows. Photo documentation also allows surveyors to complement the data they provide to clients with images of the job conditions and point attributes, making the data easier to understand.
The Trimble S6 Total Station continues to provide surveyors with power and flexibility. It includes the long-range EDM performance of Trimble DR Plus technology, making it capable of direct reflex measurements at more than double the range of previous models. Longer range means fewer instrument set-ups and easier access to more locations, saving surveyors time and money.
Trimble M3 Total Station with Trimble Access Field Software
The power of Trimble Access Field Software is now available on the Trimble M3 Mechanical Total Stations. Trimble Access software offers surveyors a new approach to surveying that expedites data collection, processing, analysis, and delivery through improved workflows, collaboration and control. Designed to support the surveyors� everyday work, including topographic surveys, staking, control and more, Trimble Access offers a familiar, easy-to-use interface to ensure a short learning-curve.
Trimble Access on the Trimble M3 allows surveyors the optional availability of Trimble Access Roads module. The Trimble Access Roads module imports road definitions from many third-party sources, allowing users to key in a complete road definition including horizontal and vertical alignments, templates and superelevation, and widening records. Users are guided through fast offsets, slope staking, real-time redesign and real-time quality control.
T
rimble GeoExplorer GeoXR Network Rover
The new rugged Trimble GeoExplorer GeoXR Network Rover is a purpose-built complete solution designed to make both high-accuracy surveying and handheld point measurement easier, more efficient and more flexible. The Trimble GeoXR Network Rover adds a new aspect to Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) surveying productivity by combining the functionality for high-accuracy field work with the flexibility and convenience of handheld positioning in one device.
The Trimble GeoXR can be used mounted on a survey rod with an external antenna for survey-grade accuracy and when connected to a Trimble VRS™ network, it serves as an advanced and highly productive rover. The receiver can be quickly removed from the rod and seamlessly switched to its integrated antenna—converting to a solution for handheld point measurement with easy access to features such as the integrated camera.
For GIS users, the Trimble GeoXH™ will also be offered in a centimeter-accurate configuration. With the Trimble GeoXH centimeter option, users can collect data in the field using Trimble TerraSync® Centimeter edition software for streamlined GIS workflows. The Centimeter option will be available as a paid service upgrade from the standard, 6000 series GeoXH.
Trimble Business Center Software Version 2.60
Trimble Business Center Software is a complete surveying office suite designed to manage, analyze and process all field survey data, including data from optical instruments (total stations and levels), GPS/GNSS and spatial stations (imaging and 3D scanning data).
Version 2.60 advances the capabilities of surveying offices with key new functionality, including:
- Stake-out Points Import - users can import stakeout points collected by Trimble Access Field Software. Office surveyors are able to easily validate the results for points, surfaces, and corridors that were staked in the field. The surveyor can ensure that the field-work conforms to specified criteria, create reports to deliver to clients, and archive all of the information for future needs.
- GPSeismic Export - users can export surveyed points to Trimbleï's newly acquired GPSeismic application. This export function solidifies the integration of seismic surveying workflows that go from field data collection, to office processing, to the powerful analysis tools contained in GPSeismic.
- Enhanced Baseline Processing - users can post-process GNSS observables faster by taking advantage of multi-core computer processing. By decreasing the time it takes to process baselines, the software enables office surveyors to spend more time analyzing results and creating deliverables.
Trimble Access Software Development Kit (SDK)
Software developers can now create tailored applications for customers and make them available for sale through the Trimble store. Trimble Access is a preferred field software platform for surveyors to control instruments and collect data more efficiently. A variety of specialized modules, developed by Trimble, are already available such as Roads, Tunnels, Monitoring and Mines. Tailoring workflows for the users' applications can enable a higher quality control process and more efficient workflows for field teams.
Trimble Access is a field and office solution for surveyors that expedites data collection, processing, analysis, and project information delivery through improved workflows, collaboration and control, which is enabled by wireless connectivity between the project team members. The complete solution speeds both typical and specialized surveying tasks, and enables easy, fast and secure two-way information sharing between the field survey crew and the office. Surveys can be completed faster with less time spent traveling back and forth to the office. Management and field crews can closely collaborate by viewing the same information in near real-time. With Trimble Access, productivity and efficiency can be significantly improved on projects. The four components of the Trimble Access solution include: Trimble Access services, base software for typical survey applications, specialized application modules, and the Trimble Connected Community.
Trimble's Connected Site Solutions
Trimble's Connected Site solutions for surveyors create seamless working relationships among Trimble products, technologies and services. Through the Connected Site, Trimble is focused on providing solutions that address the customers� full work processes. By carefully combining technology innovation with a deep understanding of the users' workflows, data integration and maintenance across the lifecycle of projects, Trimble helps surveyors reach new levels of productivity for their businesses.
Availability
The Trimble S6 Total Station with Trimble VISION Technology, Trimble Business Center Software version 2.60 and the Access Field Software SDK are available now. The Trimble M3 Total Station with Trimble Access Field Software and the Trimble GeoExplorer GeoXR Network Rover are expected to be available in the fourth quarter of 2011.
To learn more about these products, or to schedule a field demonstration, click here and we will have the appropriate product specialist contact you directly.
Posted by CSDS Blog on Fri, Sep 23, 2011 @ 04:28 PM
Why post-processing issues with Trimble Geomatics Office v1.63 will require an upgrade to TBC software
Recently it was discovered that processing of GPS baselines in Trimble Geomatics Office v1.63 cannot be performed because of a processor code that cannot be corrected (click here to see our Technical Support Note on this subject). As a result of this error, all data collected from September 2011 to the present will not post-process in Trimble Geomatics Office.
Unfortunately, the last build/update for Trimble Geomatics Office was in 2005 and Trimble has elected to proceed with Trimble Business Center as its replacement.
How can I post-process my data?
Trimble is providing temporary licenses through its local dealers that can be downloaded via the Internet and run without a dongle. This will allow post-processing of current data past the September 14th cut-off date. If you would like to obtain this license, please click here to complete a form with the information CSDS requires to make the request on your behalf. This will allow us to have a DVD sent to you with a temporary code from Trimble which will allow you to download and install TBC on your computer.
Posted by CSDS Blog on Wed, Aug 31, 2011 @ 10:26 AM
The California Surveying & Drafting Supply (CSDS) headquarters located at 4733 Auburn Blvd. in Sacramento, California is a location well-known to members of the AEC community. For 25 years, customers have relied on CSDS to provide them with the industry's leading equipment for surveying, mapping, construction and printing and imaging.
As our staff has grown and our services have evolved, so too has our desire for a building that can better address the needs of our employees and our customers. Rather than relocate, in June we decided to embark on a major renovation of our facility. This remodel will not only give us an updated look but, more importantly, provide us with the ability to serve our customers better. Anticipated to be complete in late September, the new layout will feature:
- a larger conference room
- a customer training classroom with a kitchen
- a new demo room for our printing & imaging equipment
- access to the service and reprographics departments from the main showroom
- and much more!
The next time you are in the area, we invite you to stop by and see how the construction is progressing. Or stay in touch with us via social media. By becoming a part of our online communities, you will have access to industry news and product information, learn about upcoming trainings and events, and receive special customer promotions. Click here to connect with us on Twitter or Facebook and begin receiving timely updates.
Those who like our Facebook page by Wednesday, September 7, will be entered in a drawing for one of 40 sets of Sacramento Rivercats play-off tickets. To qualify, click on the Facebook coupon below and complete the form for your chance to SCORE BIG!
Posted by CSDS Blog on Wed, Aug 24, 2011 @ 01:14 PM
The following post appeared on www.pobonline.com on August 22, 2011 and holds particular interest for Mapping & GIS professionals.
Trimble announced the release of its next generation of Trimble TerraSync software. TerraSync software is used by utilities, public sector, natural resources, and many other organizations worldwide as a key component of enterprise Geographic Information System (GIS) data collection and asset management projects. The latest release focuses on updates requested by users to address their changing needs.
Key updates in the TerraSync software include:
- QuickPoint data collection mode for easy, productive one-click data capture.
- Working in Trimble QuickPoint data collection mode, repetitive point features can be collected with a single press of a button or a tap of the screen.
Trimble LaserAce 1000 rangefinder integration. Data collection in QuickPoint mode is fast and efficient—just one remote measurement is required to log point features to collect more measurements in less time. In addition, Trimble introduced its new TerraSync Centimeter edition—supporting Trimble surveying instruments, including the Trimble R8 GNSS receiver. By leveraging RTK receivers, field workers can achieve centimeter-accuracy using existing GIS workflows.
"With the latest TerraSync software release, GIS field workers can be more efficient in the field. Providing new, streamlined ways of collecting data can save organizations time and money,” said Daniel Wallace, general manager of Trimble's GIS Data Collection Division. "In addition, support for both laser rangefinders and RTK receivers allow organizations to access the tools and technologies that provide everyday advantage without sacrificing GIS efficiencies.”
To increase efficiency in the office, a new version of Trimble GPS Pathfinder Office software has also been released which is fully integrated with TerraSync software—including enhancements to the Data Dictionary Editor module, updates to TerraSync Studio and Configuration Manager, improved support for the Web Map Server protocol and new coordinate systems.
Trimble TerraSync software and the new version of GPS Pathfinder Office software are available now from California Surveying & Drafting Supply. For additional information about TerraSync software, we invite you to visit: www.csdsinc.com or email: sales@csdsinc.com.
Posted by CSDS Blog on Wed, Aug 17, 2011 @ 01:31 PM
As part of the its Fast Track Webinar Series, Trimble will present a complimentary webinar on Wednesday, August 24, dedicated to uncovering the true "Scan to BIM" workflow. The one-hour presentation will cover the basic principles of processing a point cloud to create a deliverable that a contractor can use for project analysis.
The processes covered will include:
- registration of point clouds
- basic modeling functions
- export of point cloud data
Questions Trimble will address include:
- What type of deliverables should I be asking for?
- What do I do with the model and how do I integrate it (E57 format) into my existing 3D modeling suite?
- What are the options available today for incorporating scanning into my organization?
- What are the basics of how to utilize RealWorks to convert scan cloud data into a 3D model?
- How do I bring Realworks raw cloud data into NavisWorks?
Designed for contractors looking to implement laser scanning, this session will be a high level overview to give a better understanding of the processes necessary to take advantage of the power of laser scanning.
Registration is limited, so click here to sign-up today!