Topcon GB-500 Operator's Manual
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Topcon GB-500 Operator's Manual

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GB-500
Operator's Manual
PRECISION GPS

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  • Page 1 GB-500 Operator’s Manual PRECISION GPS...
  • Page 3 Rev B ©Copyright Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. May, 2004 All contents in this manual are copyrighted by Topcon. All rights reserved. The information contained herein may not be used, accessed, copied, stored, displayed, sold, modified, published, or distributed, or otherwise reproduced without express written consent from Topcon.
  • Page 4 ECO#2231...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Rapid Static Surveying ........1-4 Kinematic Surveying ........1-5 Real Time Kinematic (RTK) Surveying ....1-6 Getting Acquainted ............1-7 GB-500 Receiver ............ 1-9 Front Panel ............. 1-11 PG-A1 Antenna ............1-11 Optional Accessories ............ 1-12 Storage Precautions ............1-12 Option Authorization File (OAF) .........
  • Page 6 Connecting the Antenna ..........2-16 Collecting Almanacs ............. 2-17 Chapter 3 Operation and Data Management ....3-1 Operating the GB-500 Receiver ........3-1 Power Key .............. 3-1 Hold Key and Hold LED ........3-2 Status LED ............. 3-2 Battery LEDs ............3-2 REC Key and Record LED ........
  • Page 7 Table of Contents Loading New Firmware ......... 3-22 Note on COCOM Restriction ........3-24 Chapter 4 Troubleshooting ..........4-1 Check This First ............4-1 Power Problems ............4-2 Receiver Problems ............4-3 Obtaining Technical Support ........4-7 Phone ..............4-7 E-mail ..............
  • Page 8 GRS Message ............D-8 GSA Message ............D-9 GST Message ............D-10 GSV Message ............D-10 HDT Message ............D-11 RMC Message ............D-12 VTG Message ............D-13 ZDA Message ............D-14 Appendix E Warranty Terms ..........E-1 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 9: Preface

    This instruction manual explains how to operate, inspect and adjust the GB-500, and other pertinent matters. In order to use the GB-500 efficiently and safely, please read “Handling and Safety Precautions” on page B-1 before use, and then use it as prescribed. Also, please make sure that this manual is always near at hand.

  • Page 10: Other Terms And Conditions

    The information and data in this Manual are a valuable asset of TPS and are developed by the expenditure of considerable work, time and money, and are the result of original selection, coordination and arrangement by TPS. Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 11 Other Terms and Conditions TRADEMARKS – GB-500™, FC-1000™, HiPer®, Topcon® and Topcon Positioning Systems™ are trademarks or registered trademarks of TPS. Windows® is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. Product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

  • Page 12: Regulatory Information

    Regulatory Information The following section provides information on this product’s compliance with government regulations. Community of Europe Compliance We Topcon Corporation declare EC Conformity for the following product: Product Identification: Brand: Topcon Model/Type: GEODETIC RECEIVER...

  • Page 13: Manual Conventions

    Manual Conventions Manufacturer: Name: Topcon Positioning Systems Address: 5758 W. Las Positas Blvd., Pleasanton, CA 94588 Country: USA Tel: 925-460-1300 Fax: 925-460-1336 Standards used: EN 55024:1998, EN 55022/1997 class A, EN60950:2000 Means of Conformity: The product is in conformity with Directive 89/336/EEC based on test results using harmonized standards in accordance with Article 10(1) of the Directive.
  • Page 14 Notification that an action has the potential to adversely affect system operation, system performance, data integrity, personal health. WARNING WARNING Notification that an action will result in system damage, loss of data, loss of warranty, or personal injury. Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 15: Introduction

    Topcon Positioning System’s GB-500 (Figure 1-1) is a dual- frequency, GPS+ receiver built to be the most advanced receiver for the surveying market. The GB-500 can receive and process both L1 and L2 signals, improving the accuracy of your survey points and positions.

  • Page 16: Gps Surveying

    Introduction The GB-500 is a multi-function, multi-purpose receiver intended for precision markets. Precision markets means markets for equipment, subsystems, components and software for surveying, construction, commercial mapping, civil engineering, precision agriculture and land-based construction and agriculture machine control, photogrammetry mapping, hydrographic and any use reasonably related to the foregoing.

  • Page 17: Post-Processing Surveying

    GPS Surveying Post-Processing Surveying Post-processing surveying involves recording observation data to the GB-500's built-in memory, downloading the observation data into a computer using data download software (such as, Topcon Link), and analyzing the data using post-processing software to obtain precise baseline vector information (such as, Topcon Tools).

  • Page 18: Rapid Static Surveying

    Generally, rapid static surveying is effective for vectors up to 10–15 miles long, observation time between 3 and 10 minutes, and data acquisition intervals varying between 1 and 5 seconds. However, the effective baseline distance and Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 19: Kinematic Surveying

    GPS Surveying observation time will vary with the number of satellites tracked, the DOP, the existence or absence of cycle slip or multi-path, other observation conditions, and with environmental conditions. Thanks to its short observation time, rapid static surveying increases work efficiency. On the other hand, the quantity of observation data obtained is small, so the precision and reliability of the data may be less than with static surveying.

  • Page 20: Real Time Kinematic (Rtk) Surveying

    The correction data of the carrier phase data, etc. obtained through observation at the reference station is transmitted to the rover via the modem. The rover, based on Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 21: Getting Acquainted

    (that is, severe multipath, dense tree canopy, etc.). Getting Acquainted The GB-500 is a receiver that has been configured for surveying. Depending on the firmware options, it can be upgraded for dual- frequency and GPS/GLONASS reception. A graphic LED display and operating keys enable any user to easily operate it, conduct various kinds of surveying, check operating conditions, and more.
  • Page 22 Introduction Figure 1-2. GB-500 System Configuration Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 23: Gb-500 Receiver

    Getting Acquainted GB-500 Receiver Standard firmware options for the GB-500 receiver include the following: • Dual-frequency – Enables reception of dual frequencies. • GLONASS – Enables reception of signals from GLONASS satellites. • RTK – Enables RTK processing (for the measuring interval, select either 1 Hz, 5 Hz, 10 Hz, or 20 Hz).
  • Page 24 Strap BT-60Q Battery Battery Cover Figure 1-4. GB-500 Strap Holes and Batteries The top of the receiver has ports for the antenna, power connection, and connection to external components. The USB port is located on the right side of the receiver. A hook on the back side allows the receiver to be attached to a tripod (Figure 1-5).

  • Page 25: Front Panel

    Front Panel The front panel (Figure 1-6) has three operating keys and five LEDs that display the status of the batteries and certain functions. See Chapter 3 for details on the GB-500 front panel. Battery 1 LED Battery 2 LED...

  • Page 26: Optional Accessories

    • Extension cable (2 m) – Used to extend the power cable. • Antenna cable (4m) – Used to connect the antenna and receiver. • Data cable – Used to connect the GB-500 to a computer (DB 9- pin connector).

  • Page 27: Option Authorization File (Oaf)

    5. Check each part of the tripod after extended use. Parts (screws or clamps) may work free over time. Option Authorization File (OAF) Topcon Positioning Systems issues an Option Authorization File (OAF) to enable the specific options that customers purchase. An Option Authorization File allows customers to customize and configure the a receiver according to particular needs, thus only purchasing those options needed.
  • Page 28 Introduction Notes: 1-14 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 29: Setup And Connections

    Remove this sheet before use. A slight current flows inside the GB-500 even when power is off. Therefore, if storing the GB-500 for a long time with the batteries installed, the batteries will run down and the GB-500 may become inoperable.

  • Page 30: Charging The Bt-60Q Batteries

    +40°C (+50°F to +104°F). • To maintain the life of the batteries, observe the specified charging time to the extent possible. • The batteries discharge even when not used, so be sure to charge them before using them. Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 31 Connecting and Charging the Batteries • When the batteries are not used for a long time, completely charge them once every 15 days, and keep them in a place with a temperature no greater than 30°C. Should a battery completely discharge, its performance will decline and fully charging it will become impossible.

  • Page 32: Charging With The Ac Adaptor

    Connect the AC Adaptor (p/n 22-034101-01) connector to the external power port on the GB-500 (Figure 2-3). Figure 2-3. Charging the GB-500 with the AC Adapter The receiver’s charging status varies depending on the state of the batteries and power switch. Both battery LEDs use the same blink pattern while the corresponding battery charges.

  • Page 33: Battery Charging Order And Precautions

    Connecting and Charging the Batteries If the AC adaptor is connected when the GB-500 is turned off, charging-on-the-run will begin once the receiver is turned on. Check the battery LEDs for charging status (the percentage of battery charge). When charging completes, the battery LEDs are a solid green light.

  • Page 34: Connecting The Usb Cable

    Setup and Connections Connecting the USB Cable Connect the USB cable to the GB-500's USB port (Figure 2-4). Figure 2-4. Connecting the USB Cable NOTICE NOTICE The USB port is not waterproof with an attached cable. Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 35: Connecting The Serial Cables

    Connecting the Serial Cables Connect the serial (RS-232C) cables for the FC-1000 data collector, computer, modem, etc., to the GB-500's serial ports. The receiver has three serial ports: A, B and C. Each serial port corresponds to a specific external device (Figure 2-5): •...

  • Page 36: Attaching The Strap

    Setup and Connections Attaching the Strap The strap for the GB-500 provides an easy solution for carrying the receiver around the jobsite while performing surveys. Figure 2-6 illustrates the following steps: 1. Thread the strap through the strap holes. 2. Fold one end of the strap onto the velcro tape in the middle of the cover.

  • Page 37: Antenna Setup

    Antenna Setup Antenna Setup The standard antenna for the GB-500 is the PG-A1 antenna (Figure 2-7) for precise geodetic use. The PG-A1 is a light, compact, and fully waterproof antenna designed to be used for both static and kinematic surveying.
  • Page 38 Setup and Connections Antenna 5/8 inch L Plug Prism Adapter Model-3 Tribrach Model-2 Triibrach screw Figure 2-8. Antenna Setup on Tripod 2-10 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 39 Antenna Setup Use the following reference to level the tripod. 1. Set Up the Tripod Rotate the instrument 90° (100g) Extend the extension legs to suitable around its vertical axis and turn lengths and tighten the leg-screws. leveling screw C to center the bubble 2.

  • Page 40: Antenna On Rtk Pole

    1. Screw the PG-A1 antenna onto the RTK pole’s 5/8-inch screw. 2. Release the lock, adjust the pole’s length, and fasten the lock again. Antenna 5/8 inch screw Lock Figure 2-9. Antenna Setup on RTK Pole 2-12 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 41: Measuring Antenna Height

    Antenna Setup Measuring Antenna Height To accurately convert an observation taken at the antenna’s position to a point on the ground, the antenna’s height must be measured accurately. Inaccurate measurement of the antenna height will affect the vertical direction of the observation, and may affect the horizontal direction of the observation.

  • Page 42: Antenna Offsets

    • Electrical phase center from antenna height measuring position: b(L1)=26.8mm b(L2)=33mm • Antenna height measuring position from antenna reference point (ARP): c=27.5mm • Distance between antenna center and measuring position: d=89.7mm Normally, use b(L1) for the antenna offsets. 2-14 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 43 Antenna Setup Lower Edge of Metal Brim Figure 2-11. Measure Antenna Offset 2-15 P/N 31-050506-01 www.topconpositioning.com...

  • Page 44: Connecting The Antenna

    Connecting the Antenna Use the antenna cable to connect the GB-500 and antenna. 1. Connect the cable to the GB-500's antenna port (Figure 2-12). 2. Connect the cable to the PG-A1’s antenna port (Figure 2-12). Once connected, use the tripod hook on the back of the receiver to attach it securely to the tripod.

  • Page 45: Collecting Almanacs

    Collecting Almanacs Collecting Almanacs Each satellite broadcasts a message (almanac) which gives the approximate orbit for itself and all other satellites. If the receiver has an almanac, you can considerably reduce the time needed to search for and lock on to satellite signals. The receiver regularly updates the almanac and stores the most recent almanac in its Non-Volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM).
  • Page 46 Setup and Connections Notes: 2-18 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manuall...

  • Page 47: Operation And Data Management

    Chapter 3 peration and Data Management Before operating the GB-500 receiver, use a computer or data collector and the appropriate software to set the various configuration parameters. Operating the GB-500 Receiver The GB-500 receiver’s front panel uses keys to perform various functions and LEDs to display various information (Figure 3-1).

  • Page 48: Hold Key And Hold Led

    • Charging – a 0.1 second light in 1 second intervals • Not in use – a 0.1 second light in 5 second intervals See page 2-4 for details on the Battery LED status during charge. Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 49: Rec Key And Record Led

    Operating the GB-500 Receiver REC Key and Record LED The REC key begins data collection, or toggles between types of data collection. The REC LED displays data recording statuses: • Green or Orange – data recording started; blinks each time data is written to the memory •...
  • Page 50 CDU (control display unit) applications or for data recording. This operation may require from fractions of a second to several minutes, depending on the circumstances and the amount of internal memory. Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 51 Operating the GB-500 Receiver Table 3-1. REC Key Functions and REC LED Status REC Key REC LED Status When data recording is off, and the REC key is... No light No data recording. Orange blink Internal file system test in progress.
  • Page 52 No light Release to stop data recording. seconds Pressed for 5–8 Release to turn serial port A baud rate seconds to 9600 bps. Pressed for > 8 No light No function (data recording still on). seconds Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 53: Managing Data

    31st day = 31). • S – the session number (a to z). NOTICE NOTICE This file name is managed in the GB-500. A different file name may be displayed depending on the controller, downloading software, etc. P/N 31-050506-01 www.topconpositioning.com...

  • Page 54: Downloading Observation Data Files

    Operation and Data Management Downloading Observation Data Files The GB-500 records observation data as a file in the internal memory. To post-process the file, download it to a computer. To download files, use either a serial port or the USB port and a computer with downloading software installed (such as PC- CDU or Topcon Link).
  • Page 55 Managing Data 2. Once the receiver and a computer are connected, start PC-CDU on the computer. The PC-CDU main screen displays (Figure 3-3). Figure 3-3. PC-CDU Main Screen Notice that the lower-left hand corner shows the receiver status as “Disconnected”. 3.
  • Page 56 • for USB connections (Figure 3-6): –Set the Connection mode (Direct). –Set the port for your computer (USB) from the Port drop-down list. –Select the receiver’s ID from the Rec ID drop-down list. Figure 3-6. USB Connection Parameters 3-10 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 57 Managing Data Once a PC-CDU connection with the receiver has been established, the current communications settings—such as, port name, baud rate (if applicable), and flow control (if applicable)—display in the lower-left corner of the main window of PC-CDU. A timer begins to count up in the lower- right corner as well (Figure 3-7).
  • Page 58 (Figure 3-10 on page 3-13). To select multiple files, hold down the Shift key and click on non-sequential files to select several files at once; or, hold down the Ctrl key and click on individual files. 3-12 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 59 Managing Data Figure 3-10. Download Files 9. Click the Download button. During the download, status indicators display next to each file (Figure 3-11). • Blue indicator – file in queue for downloading. • Red indicator – file currently downloading. • Green indicator – file has successfully downloaded. 3-13 Figure 3-11.

  • Page 60: Deleting Files From The Receiver

    To delete files, use either a serial port or the USB port and a computer with downloading software installed (such as PC- CDU or Topcon Link). The following procedure describes using PC-CDU to delete files from the receiver. 1. Follow step 1 on page 3-8 to step 5 page 3-11.
  • Page 61 Managing Data Figure 3-13. Delete Files 6. Continue with other operations, or click File Disconnect, then File Exit to quit PC-CDU (Figure 3-14). Figure 3-14. Click Disconnect then Exit 3-15 P/N 31-050506-01 www.topconpositioning.com...

  • Page 62: Checking Options

    (such as, PC-CDU or Topcon Link). The following procedure describes using PC-CDU to the receiver’s OAF. For a complete list of options and their details, visit the Topcon website. 1. Connect the receiver and computer using an RS232 or USB cable and start PC-CDU.
  • Page 63 Managing Data • 0 – the receiver option is disabled. • positive integer – the option is enabled. • yes or no – the option is either enabled or disabled. 3. When finished, click Exit on the Option Manager screen, then click File Disconnect to prevent conflicts with serial port management.

  • Page 64: Loading An Oaf

    Operation and Data Management Loading an OAF Topcon Positioning System dealers provide customers with OAF files. For any OAF related questions, E-mail TPS at options@topconps.com. Please have your receiver ID number available (see “Checking Firmware Version” on page 3-20). 1. To load a new OAF, follow steps one and two in “Checking Options”...

  • Page 65: Clearing The Nvram

    Managing Data Clearing the NVRAM The receiver’s Non-Volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM) holds data required for satellite tracking, such as ephemeris data and receiver position. The NVRAM also keeps the current receiver’s settings, such as active antenna input, elevation masks and recording interval, and information about the receiver’s internal file system.

  • Page 66: Use Pc-Cdu To Clear Nvram

    CAUTION Do not use firmware versions 2.2p3 or older. 1. Connect the receiver and computer using an RS232 or USB cable and start PC-CDU. Click File Connect, select the desired connection parameters, and click Connect. 3-20 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 67 2. Click on Help About (Figure 3-19). Figure 3-19. Help About The About PC-CDU dialog box opens (Figure 3-20). Figure 3-20. About PC-CDU – GB-500 About PC-CDU lists important information about the different hardware accessories and software properties. This list includes the following, which you will need if you contact TPS or your dealer: •...

  • Page 68: Loading New Firmware

    1. Download and install FLoader, if applicable. Download and unzip the new firmware package(s) to your computer. 2. Connect the receiver and computer using an RS232 or USB cable and activate FLoader (Figure 3-21 on page 3-23). 3-22 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 69 Managing Data Figure 3-21. FLoader Main Screen 3. On the Connection tab, select the COM port on your computer that connects with your receiver and select its speed (usually 115200) (Figure 3-21). 4. Click the Device tab and set the Device Type as Receiver (Figure 3-22).

  • Page 70: Note On Cocom Restriction

    Almanacs” on page 2-17) after loading new firmware. Note on COCOM Restriction The GB-500 will stop the calculation of any position and speed, as well as the output and recording of any observation data, if it exceeds the range specified by COCOM (if the moving velocity of...

  • Page 71: Troubleshooting

    Chapter 4 roubleshooting In general, as long as you follow the maintenance and safety instructions provided in this manual, you should have few problems with your receiver. This chapter describes possible error message that may display, as well as how to obtain technical support. WARNING WARNING Do not attempt to repair equipment yourself.

  • Page 72: Power Problems

    2-1. are discharged. The receiver may have If after charging your internal batteries, a defective charger or and your receiver does not power up, defective internal contact TPS Customer Support for batteries. advice. Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 73: Receiver Problems

    Receiver Problems Receiver Problems The following are some of the most commonly encountered receiver problems. Problem The receiver cannot establish a connection to a computer or external controller. Causes Solutions The cable is not • Check that the cable connector is properly plugged in.
  • Page 74 • Check the receiver’s current options receiver options may using the configuration software. be disabled or expired. • Enable or prolong the validity of the corresponding receiver options by ordering a new OAF with the desired options activated. Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 75 Receiver Problems There are not enough • Ensure that both the Rover and Base common satellites. In receivers use the same, and updated, order to obtain a fixed almanac. solution, the Base and • Check the elevation masks of the Rover should track at Rover and Base receivers;...
  • Page 76 • If the error continues, contact TPS customer support. Problem One or both Battery LEDs do not light up. Causes Solutions No battery is installed. • Install the batteries. • Check that the batteries are properly installed. Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 77: Obtaining Technical Support

    (support@topcon.com). Website The Topcon Positioning Systems website provides current information about Topcon’s line of products. The support area of the website provides access to frequently asked questions, configuration procedures, manuals, e-mail support, etc. To access the TPS website home page, use: www.topconpositioning.com...
  • Page 78 Troubleshooting Notes: Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 79: Base Checks & Adjustments

    NOTICE NOTICE Your kit may not include one or more of the devices mentioned in this chapter. Contact your Topcon dealer for more information on purchasing any of these devices. Pointers on adjustment: 1. Adjust the eyepiece of the telescope prior to any checking operation that involves sighting through the telescope.

  • Page 80: Adjusting The Base

    2. Tighten the holding ring with the adjusting pin until it is properly adjusted. 3. Re-tighten the set screw upon completing the adjustment. Adjusting Screws Set Screw Leveling Leveling Holding Ring Screw Screw Figure A-1. Base Components Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 81: Checking & Adjusting The Plate Level

    Checking & Adjusting the Plate Level Checking & Adjusting the Plate Level The plate level will need to be adjusted if the axis of the plate level is not perpendicular to the vertical axis. Checking the Plate Level 1. Place the plate level parallel to a line running through the center of two leveling screws;...

  • Page 82: Adjusting The Plate Level

    3. Rotate the instrument 180° or 200g around the vertical axis once more and check bubble movement (Figure A-2 on page A-3). If the bubble is still displaced, then repeat the adjustment. Level adjustment capstan screw Half amount of displacement Figure A-3. Adjusting the Plate Level Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 83: Checking & Adjusting The Circular Level

    Checking & Adjusting the Circular Level Checking & Adjusting the Circular Level Adjustment is required if the axis of the circular level is not perpendicular to the vertical axis. Checking the Circular Level Carefully level the instrument with the plate level. If the bubble of the circular level is centered properly, adjustment is not required (Figure A-4).

  • Page 84: Checking & Adjusting The Optical Plummet Telescope

    However, only half of the displacement is corrected (Figure A-6). Capstan Adjustment Screws 1/2 of Capstan displacement Eyepiece Adjustment Screws Plummet Telescope Figure A-6. Adjusting the Optical Plummet Telescope Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 85 Checking & Adjusting the Optical Plummet Telescope 2. Use the leveling screws to align the point and center mark, correcting the other half of the displacement. 3. Rotate the instrument 180° or 200g around the vertical axis once more and check the center mark (Figure A-2 on page A-3).
  • Page 86 Base Checks & Adjustments Notes: Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 87: Handling And Safety Precautions

    The GB-500 can withstand ordinary rain, etc. However, its water resistance cannot be guaranteed if submerged. • Mounting the instrument on a Tripod: When mounting the GB-500 on a tripod, use a wooden tripod whenever possible. A metal tripod can produce vibrations that affect the precision of measurement.
  • Page 88 • About the almanac: Before using the GB-500 for the first time, before using it after a long period of non-use, or after resetting the NVRAM, track satellites for about 15 minutes in order to obtain new almanac information.

  • Page 89: Safety Cautions

    Safety Cautions • An external controller accesses the GB-500: When accessing the GB-500 from a personal computer or some other external controller, a D port will exist among the serial ports. The D port is for internal control only. Therefore, do not change the communication speed or other parameters of port D from the external controller/computer.
  • Page 90 A short circuiting battery can cause a fire. Do not short circuit the battery when storing it. CAUTION CAUTION Do not connect or disconnect equipment with wet hands, you are at risk of electric shock if you do! Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 91 Safety Cautions CAUTION CAUTION Risk of injury by overturning the carrying case. Do not stand or sit on the carrying cases. CAUTION CAUTION Please note that the tips of tripod can be hazardous, be aware of this when setting up or carrying the tripod.
  • Page 92 A falling instrument can be dangerous, check that you fix the instrument to the tripod correctly. CAUTION CAUTION A falling tripod and instrument can cause injury. Always check that the screws of tripod are securely tightened. Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 93 Appendix C pecifications This TPS product is a 40-channel GPS+ receiver in a rugged housing complete with display, user-keys, and cable connectors. Receiver Specifications Table C-1 lists receiver component details. Table C-1. Receiver Specifications Component Details Channel Number of channels 40 L1 20 L1/L2 Receiving frequency...

  • Page 94: Appendix C Specifications

    Internal memory Optionally upgradable to 1 Gb maximum Data recording time 74 hours subject to 8 Mb, 15-second interval, L1/L2, and 5 satellites Ports Antenna Lemo coaxial cable 50ohm x 1port External power ODU 5pin x 1port Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 95: Receiver Specifications

    Receiver Specifications Table C-1. Receiver Specifications (Continued) Component Details Serial ODU 7pin x 3ports Type B connector (USB1.1) x 1port Environment Operating -20°C to +55°C temperature Storage temperature -30°C to +60°C Power Consumption 3.4W (with PG-A1 antenna and batteries) Maximum operating Approximately 9 hours (at +20°C and using two time BT-60Q batteries)

  • Page 96: Port Configurations

    Specifications Port Configurations The GB-500 is equipped with three serial ports (RS-232C), an external power port, a GPS antenna port, and a USB port. The pin assignment on each port is shown below. Serial Port (RS-232) For ports A, B, and C. The RS-232 connectors (Figure C-1) are sealed receptacle, 7 pin, ODU ports.
  • Page 97 Port Configurations Table C-3 gives the RS232 cable connector specifications for Port B. To use serial port B, install the appropriate firmware option. Table C-3. RS232 Connector Specifications for Port B Number Signal Name Details Power_OUT Power Output (Supplied Voltage) Signal ground Clear to send Request to send...

  • Page 98: External Power Port

    Figure C-2. External Power Port Table C-5 gives the external power connector specifications. Table C-5. External Power Connector Specifications Number Signal Name Details Power_INP Power input Power_INP Power input Power_GND Power ground Power_GND Power ground Not used Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 99: Usb Port

    Antenna USB Port The USB port (Figure C-3) provides connection through a USB cable to a computer. Figure C-3. USB Port Table C-6 gives the USB port specifications. Table C-6. USB Port Specifications Number Signal Name Details USB_PWR Bus power input USB D- Data minus USB D+...

  • Page 100: Bt-60Q Battery

    -40°C to +55°C temperature DC 2.7 to 12V Input voltage BT-60Q Battery The battery life varies depending upon the ambient temperature and the usage conditions of the GB-500. Table C-8 lists battery component details. Table C-8. Battery Specifications Component Details Type...

  • Page 101: Discharge Characteristics

    BC-29 Charger Discharge Characteristics The discharge characteristics of the battery at high temperature is the same as that at room temperature. However, when discharge occurs at low temperature, the capacity of the battery tends to decrease. The capacity of the battery at a temperature of minus 20 degrees Celsius will decrease to 80% of the capacity at room temperature (20 degrees Celsius).

  • Page 102: Ac Adapter

    50 to 60 Hz Output DC 12 V 2.5 A (30 W) Connectors Input (AC): Standard 3-pins AC receptacle Output (DC): SAE Battery charge time 7 hours for Full Charge 6 hours for 90% Charge C-10 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 103: Nmea Standards

    Appendix D MEA Standards NMEA-0183 is a standard intended to facilitate the connectivity and compatibility between equipment manufactured by different manufacturers. This standard defines the data exchange protocol, message type, and data transmission specification between the transmitting and receiving terminals, and is widely used in many applications.

  • Page 104: Fields

    NMEA Standards TOPCON receivers support the following transmission identifiers: • GP – Global Positioning System (GPS) • GL – GLONASS • GN – Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) In general, the transmission identifier notifies the receiving terminal whether the position information included in the message is generated by GPS alone, GLONASS alone, or the combination of GPS with GLONASS.

  • Page 105: Supported Messages

    Supported Messages Supported Messages Table D-1 lists NMEA messages the GB-500 receiver supports. Table D-1. Supported NMEA Messages Message Description Data on time, position, and positioning Position and positioning mode Data on time, position and positioning of GPS+GLONASS (GNSS) Residual error of distance for each satellite...
  • Page 106 GPS only, GLONASS only, or a combination of GPS and GLONASS. • When the GB-500 uses GPS+GLONASS data for RTK and DGPS positioning, the age of differential GPS data and the differential reference station ID will be shown regarding the GPS data.

  • Page 107: Gll Message

    Supported Messages • In general, when operating a GPS/GLONASS receiver, use the GNS message rather than the GGA message. The GGA message is used mainly for GPS only receivers. GLL Message This message outputs data on the current latitude/longitude and positioning state, and is described in Table D-3.

  • Page 108: Gns Message

    Horizontal dilution of precision (HDOP) [-] Altitude above geoid in selected datum [meters] Geoidal separation: the difference between the earth ellipsoid and geoid defined by the reference datum [meters] Age of differential data [seconds] (see the note below) Checksum Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 109 When the GB-500 is performing RTK or DGPS positioning using GPS alone or GLONASS alone, one GNS message will be output for the positioning result. When the GB-500 is performing RTK or DGPS using GPS+GLONASS, three serial GNS messages will be output for each positioning result.

  • Page 110: Grs Message

    • When either GPS or GLONASS is used, the transmission identifier will be set to GP or GL, respectively. • If GPS and GLONASS are used together, the GB-500 will create 2 GRS messages. The first message indicates the residual error of distance for GPS and the next message indicates the residual error of distance for GLONASS.

  • Page 111: Gsa Message

    • When either GPS or GLONASS is used, the transmission identifier will be set to GP or GL, respectively. • If GPS and GLONASS are used together, the GB-500 will create two GSA messages once. The first message is for GPS and the next message for GLONASS.

  • Page 112: Gst Message

    Total number of messages, 1 to 3 Message number, 1 to 3 Total number of satellites in view Satellite ID number (see GSA for ID numbers), elevation in degrees, azimuth in degrees and C/A signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in dB*Hz Checksum D-10 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 113: Hdt Message

    Supported Messages The number of sets consisting of satellite number, elevation angle, azimuthal angle, and SNR is variable (up to four sets for each message). If the number of satellites exceeds four, multiple messages will be output. The first field indicates the total number of messages and the second field indicates the order of this message.

  • Page 114: Rmc Message

    A: Autonomous. Satellite system used in non-differential mode in position fix D: Differential. Satellite system used in differential mode in position fix E: Estimated (dead reckoning) mode M: Manual input mode S: Simulator mode N: Data not valid Checksum D-12 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 115: Vtg Message

    Supported Messages VTG Message This message outputs the traveling direction and velocity, and is described in Table D-11. Table D-11. VTG Message Ouputs Field Description True course [degrees] Symbol “T” indicates True course Magnetic course [degrees] Symbol “M” indicates Magnetic course Horizontal speed [knots] Symbol “N”...

  • Page 116: Zda Message

    Month (varies between 01 to 12) Year Local zone hours (varies from -13 to +13) Local zone minutes (varies from 00 to 59) Checksum The local time zone hour and minute refers to the difference from UTC. D-14 Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 117: Warranty Terms

    1. The warranty against defects in Topcon battery, charger, or cable is 90 days. P/N 31-050506-01...
  • Page 118 Warranty Terms Notes: Topcon GB-500 Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 120 TOPCON Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. Phone: 925 • 460 • 1300 Fax: 925 • 460 • 1315 ©2004 Topcon Corporation. All Rights Reserved. No unauthorized duplication. Printed in U.S.A. GB-500 Operator’s Manual P/N: 31-050506-01 Rev. A 03/04 50...

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