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Activating the Internal CDMA Modem ..... 3-23 Configuring the Receiver ..........3-25 MINTER Configuration ........... 3-35 Chapter 4 GR-3 Receiver Setup and Survey ....... 4-1 Receiver Setup ..............4-1 Step 1: Set up the Receivers ........4-1 Step 2: Measure Antenna Height ....... 4-4 Step 3: Collect Data ...........
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Table of Contents Deleting Files from the Receiver’s SD Card ....5-8 Managing Receiver Memory ........... 5-9 Managing Receiver Options ..........5-10 Checking the Receiver’s OAF ........5-10 Loading an OAF ............5-12 Clearing the NVRAM ............5-13 Using the MINTER to Clear the NVRAM ....5-13 Using PC-CDU to Clear the NVRAM ......
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Appendix C Regulatory Information ........C-1 UHF Radio Usage ............C-1 FCC Compliance .............. C-2 Community of Europe Compliance ........C-3 Canadian Emission Labeling Requirements ....C-3 WEEE Directive ............... C-3 Appendix D Warranty Terms ........... D-1 GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Preface Preface Thank you for purchasing this Topcon product. The materials available in this Manual (the “Manual”) have been prepared by Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. (“TPS”) for owners of Topcon products, and are designed to assist owners with the use of the receiver and its use is subject to these terms and conditions (the “Terms and Conditions”).
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Windows® is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. is used under license. Other product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.
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Terms and Conditions You may not assign or transfer the Software or this license without the express written consent of TPS. This license is effective until terminated. You may terminate the license at any time by destroying the Software and Manual. TPS may terminate the license if you fail to comply with any of the Terms or Conditions.
Supplementary information that can have an affect on system operation, system performance, NOTICE measurements, or personal safety. Notification that an action has the potential to adversely affect system operation, system CAUTION performance, data integrity, or personal health. GR-3 Operator’s Manual viii...
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Manual Conventions Notification that an action will result in system damage, loss of data, loss of warranty, or personal WARNING injury. Under no circumstances should this action be DANGER performed. P/N 7010-0736...
Chapter 1 Introduction The GR-3 receiver is a multi-frequency, GPS+ receiver built to be the most advanced and compact receiver for the surveying market. The receiver is a multi-function, multi-purpose receiver intended for precision markets. Precision markets means markets for equipment,...
For information on the status of this system, visit the European Satellite Navigation Industries website (http://www.european-satellite-navigation- industries.net). Despite numerous technical differences in the implementation of these systems, satellite positioning systems have three essential components: GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Principles of Operation • Space – GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO satellites orbit approximately 12,000 nautical miles above Earth and are equipped with a clock and radio. These satellites broadcast ranging signals and various digital information (ephemerides, almanacs, time and frequency corrections, and so forth). •...
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(as with the OmniSTAR service), and satellite based augmentation systems (WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS). The real-time kinematic (RTK) method is the most precise method of real-time surveying. RTK requires at least two receivers collecting GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Principles of Operation navigation data and communication data link between the receivers. One of the receivers is usually at a known location (Base) and the other is at an unknown location (Rover). The Base receiver collects carrier phase measurements, generates RTK corrections, and sends this data to the Rover receiver.
When the receiver operates in RTK mode, raw data measurements can also be recorded into the receiver’s internal memory. This allows the operator to double check real-time results obtained in the field. 1. MMC = multi-media card; SD = secure digital GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
• Setting different mask angles • Setting different survey parameters • Static or dynamic modes Getting Acquainted The GR-3 is a 72-channel GPS receiver, which includes the following: • External, detachable batteries • Two data ports • Interface for controlling and viewing data logging •...
Introduction Batteries The GR-3 receiver comes equipped with two detachable, rechargeable batteries (Figure 1-2) for powering the receiver. Figure 1-2. GR-3 Batteries The receiver draws power from one battery at a time before switching to the second battery. Each detachable battery can provide between 4h30m and 8h30m (approximate) of operation, depending on the mode of the receiver.
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Getting Acquainted • The STATUS button activates the battery LEDs. Press STATUS to display the amount of charge for the corresponding battery. • The two battery LEDs display the percentage of charge in the attached battery. – Green: indicates greater than 85% charge. –...
CAUTION modem is in transmitter mode. GR-3 Receiver The GR-3 receiver’s advanced design reduces the number of cables required for operation, allowing for more reliable and efficient surveying. The casing allocates space for two removable, rechargeable batteries, SD/MMC and SIM card slots, a Bluetooth wireless technology module, a multi-system receiver board, and a radio modem communications board.
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• Green blink – receiver is on and tracking satellites; one blink per tracked GPS satellite. • Orange blink – receiver is on and tracking satellites; one blink per tracked GLONASS satellite. RX TX STAT FUNCTION Battery Battery FUNCTION FUNCTION Power Button Button Figure 1-5. GR-3 MINTER P/N 7010-0736 1-11...
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The RX TX LED displays the status of the modem. Table 1-1 describes the LED colors and patterns for the different modems available for the GR-3 receiver. Table 1-1. RX TX LED Indications • No light – modem is turned off.
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Getting Acquainted Table 1-1. RX TX LED Indications (Continued) • Solid Orange (Red and Green) – the modem is initializing. • Green flashes – the modem is on, registered on the network, and is waiting for incoming calls (Slave mode). •...
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If FN key mode is “Occupation mode switch” Green Release to start recording (Kinematic or Static post-processing occupation mode). Pressed for 5–8 Release to turn serial port A baud rate to seconds 9600 bps. Pressed for > 8 No light No function. seconds GR-3 Operator’s Manual 1-14...
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Getting Acquainted Table 1-2. FUNCTION Button Operations and REC LED Status (Continued) FN (FUNCTION) REC LED Status When data recording is on, and the FN key is... No free memory; hardware problem with data recording; SD/MMC card is not inserted. If FN key mode is “LED blink mode switch”...
(red) Figure 1-6. GR-3 Ports External Radio Antenna Connector The UHF and SS antennas connect to the external antenna connector on the GR-3 radome (Figure 1-7). Both modem antenna types include support for a GSM modem. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 1-16...
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The bottom connector (Figure 1-8) connects the receiver to either a standard 5/8'' thread pole/adapter or the quick disconnect (see “The quick disconnect adapter” on page 1-22 for details). Bottom Connector for Standard Setups Figure 1-8. GR-3 Quick Connector P/N 7010-0736 1-17...
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SIM card installed can be accessed via Modem-TPS for configuration purposes. A SIM card can be purchased from a local cellular provider. Card Slot (for SD/MMC card) Figure 1-9. GR-3 Card Slot Example 1. MMC = multi-media card; SD = secure digital GR-3 Operator’s Manual 1-18...
Cables The GR-3 package includes standard communication and power cables for configuring the receiver and providing a power source to the receiver. Table 1-3 lists the cables included in the GR-3 package. Table 1-3. GR-3 Package Cables Cable Description Cable Illustration...
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Introduction Along with the above cables, the GR-3 package with a GB-500 or GB-1000 receiver includes the cables listed in Table 1-4. Refer to the GB-500 Operator’s Manual or GB-1000 Operator’s Manual for further details on the accessories that come with these receivers.
22-006009-011) are used to level the tripod and secure the receiver or antenna to the tripod (Figure 1-11). Figure 1-11. Universal Tribrach and Tribrach Adapter For more details on the accessories and package options available for the GR-3, contact the local Topcon dealer. P/N 7010-0736 1-21...
Topcon offers a wide variety of accessories especially designed to extend job reliability and efficiency. For more details on the optional accessories available for the GR-3, contact the local Topcon dealer. The precision tribrach adapter (Figure 1-13) is used to precisely center, align, and level the tripod over a point.
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(Figure 1-15) allows the GR-3 Base and Rover systems to be configured and monitored directly in the field. TopSURV (field data collection software) and CE-CDU (receiver configuration and monitoring software) can be used on Topcon controllers to configure and manage the receiver. FC-100 FC-2000 Figure 1-15.
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Do not use the AA battery shell when the radio CAUTION modem is in transmitter mode. The GR-3 2m fixed height Tripod and Pole 1.(22-050911-01 and 22-050908-01). Pole not pictured. Tripod for the GR-3 (Figure 1- 18). Figure 1-18. Tripod GR-3 Operator’s Manual 1-24...
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Getting Acquainted Cradle-to-receiver charging cable (p/n 14-008072-01 (1.5m long) p/n 14-008072-02 (0.5 m long) Connects the receiver to the charging cradle for external power (Figure 1-19). Figure 1-19. Cradle-to-receiver Charging Cable Battery Recharger (01-050911-01) Charges the battieres. To grounded outlet Figure 1-20.
Introduction 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 receiver according to particular needs, thus only purchasing those options needed.
Chapter 2 Pre-survey Preparation Before beginning to survey with the GR-3 receiver, the following software needs to be installed and configurations need to be applied: Install receiver configuration software See “Installing Topcon Software” on page 2-2. Optional: install SD card and/or SIM card See “Installing the Optional SD and SIM Cards”...
The PC-CDU software exists in two versions: a full-functionality version called PC-CDU MS and a reduced-functionality version called PC-CDU Lite. PC-CDU Lite is available for free on the Topcon website (www.topconpositioning.com) or the GPS+ CD. Computer requirements for PC-CDU are: Windows® 98 or newer and an RS-232C or USB port, or Bluetooth capable.
Installing Topcon Software To Install PC-CDU: 1. Create a PC-CDU folder on the hard drive, and place the compressed PC-CDU zip file (retrieved from either the website or the GPS+ CD) in this folder. 2. Navigate to the PC-CDU folder, and double-click the PC- CDU_MS zip file.
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Figure 2-3. Installation Complete and Shortcut To uninstall Modem-TPS, use the Start menu on the computer: 1. Click Start Programs Modem-TPS Uninstall Modem- TPS, and click Yes at the prompt. 2. Click OK when the uninstall completes. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Installing Topcon Software Installing BTCONF BTCONF is a configuration program for the Bluetooth wireless technology module inside the receiver. BTCONF is available from the TPS website (www.topconpositioning.com) or on the GPS+ CD. Computer requirements for BTCONF are: Windows® 98 or newer and an RS-232C port or Bluetooth wireless technology.
2. Navigate to the FLoader folder, and double-click the FLoader zip file. 3. Extract the FLoader.exe file to the FLoader folder (Figure 2-5). 4. Optionally, create a shortcut on the computer’s desktop for quick access to FLoader (Figure 2-5). GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Installing the Optional SD and SIM Cards Figure 2-5. Extract Program and Create Shortcut To uninstall FLoader, navigate to the location of the *.exe file, select the file, and press Delete. Installing the Optional SD and SIM Cards Behind each detachable battery is a slot for the optional SD card or the optional SIM card.
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Switch Data plan and have subscriptions to the same service provider for proper data communication. 1. Ensure the receiver is turned off. 2. Remove the battery to the right of the MINTER. 3. If needed, snap the SIM card into its holder. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Before using the GR-3, fully charge the batteries for maximum operating time (Figure 2-8 on page 2-10). If the batteries are attached to the charging cradle or to the GR-3, an approximately 6-hour charge cycle will fully charge the batteries; the batteries charge simultaneously.
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(either port will charge both/either battery). 5. Plug the power supply to an available outlet. Leave for approximately 6 hours to fully charge the batteries. To grounded outlet Figure 2-8. Insert Batteries in Charger and Connect to Outlet GR-3 Operator’s Manual 2-10...
80% capacity after 500 charging cycles. These batteries do not need to be drained before recharging. Power Management Topcon’s PC-CDU software provides an interface for various configuration, monitoring, and management functions for the receiver. For power management of the receiver, PC-CDU enables the power source, enables the charging mode, and displays the current voltage for the batteries.
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5. Select the Turn on/off Slots drop-down list to set power output on internal slots (Figure 2-11). • On – slot C is powered if the receiver is turned on • Off – internal slot is not powered even if the receiver is turned GR-3 Operator’s Manual 2-12...
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Power Management • Always – internal slot is powered even if the receiver is turned off Figure 2-11. Select Power Output Modes – Ports and Slots 6. View the Voltages information (Figure 2-12 on page 2-13). • External – displays the external power supply’s voltage •...
V between the batteries. To check the status of the internal batteries, view the BATT LED or check the status using available Topcon software. • Check the BATT LEDs for battery status. – A green light indicates greater than 85% charge.
Powering the Receiver Using the Detachable Batteries The GR-3 receiver comes with two detachable, rechargeable batteries and an AA battery shell. Each battery can provide between 4.5 and 8.5 (approximate) hours of operation at room temperature, depending on the mode of the receiver and the capacity of the battery.
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Pre-survey Preparation Figure 2-14. Insert the GR-3 Batteries To detach the batteries: Using the clip at the top of the battery, gently pull down and out to detach the battery from the receiver (Figure 2-15). Figure 2-15. Detach the GR-3 Batteries...
Powering the Receiver 2. Insert four AA batteries as shown on the inside of the shell (and in Figure 2-16). • The batteries on the left lay with the positive end towards the bottom of the shell. • The batteries on the right lay with the positive end towards the top of the shell.
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Management” on page 2-11 for more information on setting the charger mode. 1. Connect the ODU-to-alligator clips cable to a 12-volt battery. 2. Connect the ODU-to-alligator clips cable to the receiver’s power port. 3. Turn on the receiver. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 2-18...
Powering the Receiver From receiver to auxiliary battery using ODU-to- alligator clips cable. Figure 2-18. Connect an Auxiliary Battery and the Receiver A single external 12 V, 2.3 A*h battery should run the receiver and modem for about 4.5 hours and the receiver for 6 hours. Turning On/Off the Receiver To turn ON the receiver, press and hold the power button until the LEDs briefly flash.
• upload an OAF • upload configuration files to a receiver Establishing a Wireless Connection The GR-3 receiver contains Bluetooth wireless technology that allows file transfer and synchronization between the receiver and any other external device that supports Bluetooth wireless technology; for example, an FC-100, or a computer with USB-to-Bluetooth adapter or PCMCA-to-Bluetooth adapter installed.
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Connecting the Receiver and a Computer Changing the receiver’s Port D default settings will affect the Bluetooth link. The default settings for NOTICE Port D are: 115200 bps, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, and no handshaking. The receiver and external device connection procedure varies slightly depending on the type of external device used.
Make sure the computer has the TPS USB driver installed and the USB option is enabled. You can find the TPS USB driver on the GPS+ CD, or you can download it from the Topcon website NOTE (www.topconpositioning.com). 1. Using the USB cable, connect the USB port of the computer to the receiver’s USB port.
Bluetooth Module Configuration Bluetooth Module Configuration Use BTCONF, Topcon’s Bluetooth module’s configuration program, and the computer to: • access the Bluetooth wireless technology module • configure the Bluetooth module • check or change the module’s configuration To access the Bluetooth wireless technology module, first download and install BTCONF, then connect the computer and the receiver and run the configuration program.
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• Bluetooth address – the unique electronic address for the module. • Firmware version – the current firmware version of the Bluetooth module. Figure 2-21. BTCONF Identification Tab The COM port and baud rate display in the lower left corner. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 2-24...
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Bluetooth Module Configuration 5. Click the Parameters tab (Figure 2-22 on page 2-25). The Parameters tab sets identifying and security information for your Bluetooth module. The security section allows you to set data security and unauthorized access parameters for the Bluetooth module.
• GPS satellites broadcast almanac data cyclically with a period of 12.5 minutes; GLONASS satellites broadcast almanac data cyclically with a period of 2.5 minutes. If the receiver has an almanac, you can considerably reduce the time needed to search for and lock onto satellite signals. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 2-26...
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Collecting Almanacs and Ephemerides The receiver regularly updates the almanac and ephemerides and stores the most recent versions in its Non-Volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM). Perform the following to collect Alamac and Ephemerides data: 1. Set up the receiver in a location with a clear view of the sky. 2.
• In applications intended for post-processing, the receivers typically log code phase and/or carrier phase measurements separately from common satellites and during the same time interval. This data is then processed using post-processing software (for example, Topcon Tools). P/N 7010-0736...
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RTK Rover. See “Configuring the Receiver” on page 3-25. Configure the communication data link for transmitting and receiving corrections. • Spread Spectrum GR-3: – For Spread Spectrum modem, see “Configuring a Spread Spectrum Radio Modem” on page 3-4 – For GSM/GPRS modem, see “Configuring a Spread Spectrum Radio with a GSM Modem”...
Modem-TPS before exiting NOTICE to prevent conflicts with serial port management. Topcon’s configuration and surveying software, TopSURV or Pocket-3D, also have the ability to configure Topcon receivers. Refer to the TopSURV or Pocket-3D manuals for details. P/N 7010-0736...
GR-3 Configuration Configuring a Spread Spectrum Radio Modem For Topcon receivers, the integrated TPS FH915+ radio modem provides TX/RX spread spectrum communications between a Base and Rover. To configure a SS radio modem, have the following ready: • Computer running Windows® 98 or newer •...
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Configuring a Spread Spectrum Radio Modem • Link Rate – select the data transmission rate for the RF link; either 9600, 12000, 17000, 24000, or 51000 bps. As opposed to a baud rate (the rate of data transfer through a serial cable interface), the link rate is the amount of data (measured in bits) the radio modem can transmit/receive over the air in a specified time period (measured in seconds).
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Otherwise, a radio connection will not be established. – networks in the same location are assigned to different channel numbers; otherwise, networks in close proximity will interfere with each other, and radio communication may fail. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
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Configuring a Spread Spectrum Radio Modem Base Rover Figure 3-2. Modem-TPS Radio Link Tab On the Radio Link tab, set the following parameters (Table 3-2) and click Apply Table 3-2. Receiver Parameters for the Radio Link Tab Parameter Base Receiver Rover Receiver Protocol Recommend selecting FH915...
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Configuring a Spread Spectrum Radio Modem Table 3-2. Receiver Parameters for the Radio Link Tab (Continued) Parameter Base Receiver Rover Receiver Channel Assign a channel on which to transmit/receive data. Each channel uses a unique communication frequency, allowing up to five simultaneously transmitting radio modems, without interference, at the jobsite.
25cm between the user and the NOTICE radio modem. For GR-3 receivers, the integrated TPS SS radio modem configured with a GSM module provides TX/RX GSM communications between a Base and Rover, or communication with a GPS network using IP based connections.
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• To ensure reliable and secure modem communication, this parameter must be larger then the period for transmitting differential corrections. If the base and rover are both GR-3 receivers with internal GSM modems, set the Send time to zero (0). P/N 7010-0736...
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Click Quit to return to the GSM tab. Signal quality is a reading of the strength of the GSM signal. The lower the number—the closer to zero—the better the signal quality. The minimum signal (cutoff) is -111db. Figure 3-6. View GSM Information GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-12...
25cm between the user and the NOTICE radio modem. For the GR-3 Digital UHF, the integrated radio modem provides TX/RX UHF communications between a Base Station and a Rover. To configure the UHF radio modem, have the following ready: •...
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Mode Select Transmitter Select Receiver Channel Select the desired frequency from the channel list. Note: The same channel must be used for both the base and rover to communicate properly. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-14...
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Configuring a Digital UHF Radio Modem Table 3-5. Receiver Parameters for the Radio Link Tab Parameter Base Receiver Rover Receiver Forward Error Enable to maximize data communication. The rover radio Correction (FEC) modem has the capability to check and correct transmission errors (if any) in an incoming data stream.
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5. When finished, click File Disconnect. 6. Click File Exit to close Modem-TPS. 7. Launch PC-CDU and set up the receiver to run as an RTK Base station. Figure 3-9. Apply Baud Rate Parameters GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-16...
25cm between the user and the NOTICE radio modem. For the GR-3 Digital UHF, the integrated radio modem configured with a Wavecom GSM Module provides TX/RX GSM communications between a Base and Rover, or communications with a GPS network using IP based connections. To configure a GSM modem, have the following ready: •...
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Shows the model of the Wavecom module and the GSM band that it uses. Status Shows whether the SIM card inserted into the GR-3 is registered on the service provider’s network. It will report one of three things: 1. Registered, home network 2.
Figure 3-11. Enable the GSM Module/View GSM Parameters 6. On the Serial Interface tab (Figure 3-10 on page 3-17), select a baud rate for the modem’s serial port. For the GR-3 digital UHF, the baud rate must be set to 115200. The same rate must be used for both the receiver and the modem.
• The ESN (Electronic Serial Number) is eight characters and is alpha-numeric. For example: F60E1594 To find the IMEI and ESN numbers: 1. Connect the computer running Modem-TPS and the receiver ® using an RS-232 cable or Bluetooth wireless technology. 2. Turn on the GR-3 receiver. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-20...
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Configuring a Digital UHF Radio with a CDMA Modem 3. Open Modem-TPS, and select COM1 as the port to which the receiver is connected. Click Connect. Figure 3-12. Connect to Modem-TPS The Digital UHF Modem page appears with the Radio Link tab open.
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5. If the Mode is turned Off, then select On from the drop-down menu, and click Apply. Figure 3-14. GSM/CDMA Tab - Mode ON 6. Once the Mode is turned on, click Cell Modem Info to display the ESN and IMEI numbers. Figure 3-15. ESN and IMEI Numbers GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-22...
Configuring a Digital UHF Radio with a CDMA Modem Sprint users must obtain the following numbers from the service provider when setting up the data plan in order to activate the internal CDMA modem: • The MSL (Master Subsidy Lock) or SPC (Service Provisioning Code) is a 6-digit number •...
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Figure 3-18. MSL, MDN, and MSID Numbers 3. (Sprint Users Only) Enter the 6-digit MSL, 10-digit MDN, and 10-digit MSID numbers, and then click Proceed to begin activating the modem. After a few minutes the modem is activated. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-24...
File Exit to close Modem-TPS. The CDMA modem is activated and ready to use. Configuring the Receiver The GR-3 can be configured in several ways for collecting data for RTK or post-processing. • A static Base station collects measurement information and saves this data to its internal memory.
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Do not make other changes without consulting the PC-CDU Reference Manual. WARNING 1. Connect the receiver and computer as described in “Connecting the Receiver and a Computer” on page 2-20. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-26...
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Configuring the Receiver 2. Start PC-CDU on your computer. The PC-CDU main screen displays (Figure 3-19). Figure 3-19. PC-CDU Main Screen Notice that the lower-left hand corner shows the receiver status as “Disconnected”. 3. Click File Connect. 4. On the Connection Parameters dialog box, select the following parameters (Table 3-8), and click Connect (Figure 3-20).
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(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 3-21). Figure 3-21. PC-CDU Connection Established GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-28...
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Configuring the Receiver 5. Select Configuration Receiver. Click Apply after making any configuration change; otherwise, the receiver will not register the NOTICE change. 6. Click Set all parameters to defaults (Figure 3-22). Figure 3-22. Set All Parameters to Defaults 7. Click the MINTER tab, and configure the following settings (Table 3-9), then click Apply (Figure 3-23).
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8. Click the Positioning tab, and set the Elevation mask to 15 (Figure 3-24), then click Apply. Figure 3-24. Configure Receiver Positioning – Elevation Mask 9. For the Base receiver, click the Base tab, and set the following parameters (Figure 3-25 on page 3-31), then click Apply. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-30...
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Configuring the Receiver • GPS/GLO at one time – enable • Antenna position – enter Lat, Lon, and Alt values using one of the following methods: – If known, type in the values. – Enable Averaged, and enter the Averaged Span in seconds, then click Apply.
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The higher the specified confidence level, the longer the integer ambiguity search time. Figure 3-26. Rover Configuration Continue with step 11 for RTK surveys or step 12 on page 3-34. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-32...
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Configuring the Receiver 11. For RTK surveys, click the Ports tab and set the following port parameters for the serial port (Table 3-10), then click Apply (Figure 3-27 on page 3-34). For post-processed surveys, keep the default values NOTICE for these parameters. Table 3-10.
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Apply (Figure 3-28 on page 3-34). • Code multipath reduction – enable • Carrier multipath reduction – enable Figure 3-28. Configure Mulitpath Parameters 13. Click OK to save the settings and close the dialog box. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-34...
MINTER Configuration Once the receiver is configured, the configuration remains until you change it using PC-CDU/TopSURV/Pocket-3D or clearing the NVRAM. For more details on the settings available for configuring the Base and Rover receivers, refer to the PC-CDU Reference Manual. 14.
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2. On the PC-CDU Main window, click File Connect. 3. On the Connection Parameters dialog box, enable RTS/CTS handshaking (Figure 3-30). See “Connecting the Receiver and a Computer” on page 2-20 for details on setting other parameters. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-36...
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MINTER Configuration 4. Click Connect. Figure 3-30. Connection Parameters – MINTER Settings 5. Click Configuration Receiver, and then click the MINTER tab. Set the following parameters, and click Apply (Figure 3-31). See the following pages for descriptions of these parameters. •...
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Always Append to the File parameter If you want new receiver data to be appended to an existing log file, enter the desired file name in this parameter. The setting can be up to 20 characters long. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-38...
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MINTER Configuration Files Creation Mode parameter This parameter has the following operation modes: • Log file – If the log file radio button has been selected, pressing the FN closes the current log file. If data logging is off, pressing FN opens a new log file.
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Select Static or Kinematic to specify that the corresponding log file starts with a static (STOP) or kinematic (GO, Trajectory) occupation, respectively. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-40...
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MINTER Configuration Data Recording Auto-start parameter These radio buttons allow you to program your receiver’s behavior in the event of a power failure. Table 3-11 describes the different scenarios available and the results after power is restored to the receiver. “Specified file” refers to the file name entered in the Always append to file field.
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• After turning on the receiver using the power button. • After resetting the receiver (using PC-CDU). • After taking the receiver out of Sleep Mode. Figure 3-32. MINTER Tab GR-3 Operator’s Manual 3-42...
Chapter 4 GR-3 Receiver Setup and Survey After receiver survey configuration, set up each receiver, measure its height, and begin surveying. The MINTER provides quick access for: logging data, changing receiver modes, and viewing general data logging and satellite information during a survey.
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3. Insert the L-plug (horizontal spacer) into the precision tribrach adapter. 4. Attach the GR-3 receiver (or PG-A1 antenna) to the tribrach adapter. Attach the desired antenna to the antenna connector. 5. Carefully level the tripod and tighten the screws.
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1. If needed, attach the quick disconnect to the bipod/range pole. Use a bipod during post-process surveys to ensure the antenna/receiver does not move during data NOTICE logging. 2. Attach the GR-3 receiver to the quick disconnect. Make sure the receiver locks into place. P/N 7010-0736...
Quick disconnect 5/8 inch screw Lock Figure 4-2. Connect GR-3 Receiver to Bipod Step 2: Measure Antenna Height The location of the antenna relative to the point being measured is very important for both surveys in which the elevation of the points is important and in surveys for horizontal location only.
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Receiver Setup • Method of measuring the antenna height • Model of the antenna used Antennas have two types of measurements: • Vertical – measured from the marker to the antenna reference point (ARP) located on the bottom of the receiver at the base of the mounting threads.
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• SHMM to ARP vertical offset = 168mm • SHMM to ARP radius = 78.3mm to side; 95.8mm to corner Table 4-1 gives the offset values for the receivers. Table 4-1. Offset Values for GR-3 Receiver ARP To L1 Phase Center ARP To L2 Phase Center 228.8 MM.
Receiver Setup Step 3: Collect Data See the remaining sections in this chapter for more information on collecting data. 1. Turn on the receiver. The STAT (status) light (LED) initially blinks red. 2. Once the receiver has locked on to one or more satellites, the STAT light blinks green for GPS satellites and orange for GLONASS satellites.
GR-3 Receiver Setup and Survey MINTER Operation The MINTER is the receiver’s minimum interface used to display and control data input and output (Figure 4-4). RX TX STAT FUNCTION Battery Battery FUNCTION FUNCTION Power Button Button Figure 4-4. GR-3 MINTER The MINTER performs numerous functions, including the following: •...
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MINTER Operation See “MINTER” on page 1-11 for a full description of the MINTER. To turn on/off the receiver, press the power button (Figure 4-5 on page 4-9). • When turning on, press the power button until the MINTER’s LEDs briefly flash. •...
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GR-3 Receiver Setup and Survey mode switch” for kinematic surveys. See “FN Key Mode parameter” on page 3-40 for details. Each time you turn off or on data recording, either a new file opens or data appends to a particular file. See “Always Append to the File parameter”...
Secondly, dual-frequency receivers need less observation time to reach the required accuracy. After the survey completes, data the receivers collect can be downloaded onto a computer and processed using post-processing software (for example, Topcon Tools). P/N 7010-0736 4-11...
GR-3 Receiver Setup and Survey Kinematic (Stop & Go) Surveying for Rover Stations In a kinematic stop and go survey, the stationary receiver (Base station) is set up at a known point such as a survey monument, or an unknown point. The receiver continually tracks satellites and logs raw data into its memory.
Real Time Kinematic Surveying This method of GPS survey allows the operator to reduce the point occupation time, thus permitting field crews to survey many more points compared to the other methods available. Real Time Kinematic Surveying In RTK surveying, one receiver serves as the reference station. The receiver conducts observations with its antenna affixed to a stationary tripod or another device.
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GR-3 Receiver Setup and Survey and phases; however, with a float solution, the phase ambiguity is not a fixed integer number and the “float” estimate is used instead. • RTK fixed – where the Rover receiver computes current relative coordinates, with ambiguity fixing, in differential mode.
PC-CDU and Topcon Link both provide file managers to download files from the receiver to your computer, and to delete files from the receiver. PC-CDU Lite and Topcon Link are both free utilities available via your Topcon Dealer or the Topcon website (www.topconpositioning.com).
Receiver and File Maintenance Downloading Files via Topcon Link Topcon Link provides two options for downloading files from a receiver: via Windows® Explorer or via the Topcon Link interface. Before you can download files, you must connect your receiver and computer (see “Connecting the Receiver and a Computer”...
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Downloading Files to a Computer Figure 5-2. Break Of Searching Receivers 4. To update information about the receivers connected to the computer port, click Search for connected receivers. 5. To view information about the receiver (Figure 5-3), right-click the receiver, and select the Properties option. 6.
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1. Connect your receiver and computer. See “Connecting the Receiver and a Computer” on page 2-20 for this procedure. 2. To start Topcon Link, click the Import from Device button on the Toolbar. 3. From the left panel of the Import from Device dialog box, double-click Topcon Receivers (Figure 5-5).
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Downloading Files to a Computer Figure 5-7. Receiver Properties 5. In the right panel of the Import From Device window, navigate to and select, or create, a folder to save the files (Figure 5-8). 6. To view the collected raw file, double click (or click Select in the pop-up menu) the receiver.
3. Click File File Manager, then click the Download path tab on the File Manager dialog box (Figure 5-10). Figure 5-10. Find Files to Download 4. Navigate to or create (using the Create button) the folder in which to download and store files. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
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Downloading Files to a Computer 5. Click the Download files tab and select the file(s) to download (Figure 5-11 on page 5-7). To select multiple files, press the shift key while clicking non- sequential files; or, press the Ctrl key and click individual files. Figure 5-11.
5. Click Yes at the delete files confirmation dialog box. PC-CDU deletes the selected files. 6. Click Exit on the File Manager screen. 7. Continue with other operations. Or Click File Disconnect, then File Exit to quit PC-CDU. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Managing Receiver Memory Figure 5-14. Delete Files Managing Receiver Memory When using the receiver in static or dynamic applications, you may need to know the amount of memory the receiver’s log file occupies. The specific memory size depends on the type of data being recorded. Use the formulas below to compute the approximate size of the receiver’s log files.
• -1 or “-----” – the firmware version does not support this option • 0 – the receiver option is disabled • positive integer – the option is enabled • yes or no – the option is either enabled or disabled GR-3 Operator’s Manual 5-10...
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Managing Receiver Options 3. When finished, click Exit on the Option Manager dialog box, then click File Disconnect to disconnect from PC-CDU (and prevent conflicts with serial port management). Figure 5-15. View Option Manager P/N 7010-0736 5-11...
Topcon Positioning System dealers provide customers with OAF files. For any OAF related questions, e-mail TPS at options@topcon.com and include the receiver’s ID number (see the bottom of the receiver for the ID). 1. To load a new OAF, follow steps one and two in “Checking the Receiver’s OAF”...
Clearing the NVRAM 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.
LED blinks, and becomes one of the following colors when the tests complete: • Orange – at least one blink is orange. • Red – no orange blink and at least one red blink. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 5-14...
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Changing Receiver Modes • Green – all other cases. The delimiter double-blink is followed by six LED blinks corresponding to six receiver tests, where each blink indicates the following information: Blink 1. Sufficient data for position computation. Blink 2. GPS S/N ratios are good (Table 5-1). Blink 3.
Use the latest firmware version, available for download from the TPS website at www.topconpositioning.com, to ensure your receiver has the most recent updates. The GR-3 receiver must be loaded with firmware NOTICE version 3.0 or newer. Do not attempt to load firmware older than 3.0.
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Loading New Firmware The receiver uses FLoader, a Windows®-based utility, to load firmware onto the receiver and power boards. You can download FLoader to your computer from the TPS website. For more information, refer to the FLoader User’s Manual, also available on the TPS website at www.topconpositioning.com.
1. In FLoader, click the Device tab and set the Device Type as “Receiver.” Click Get from Device for device information (Figure 5-19). Figure 5-19. Set Device Type 2. Click the Program tab and set the Capture Method to “Soft Break Capture” (recommended) (Figure 5-20 on page 5-19). GR-3 Operator’s Manual 5-18...
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Loading New Firmware Figure 5-20. Program Tab Settings 3. Browse for and select the receiver board’s RAM file and Flash file (Figure 5-20). 4. Click Load and wait until 100% of the files load into the receiver. If you selected an incorrect file, an error message displays at the bottom of the dialog box.
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Select the NOTICE correct file. 9. Click File Exit. 10. Clear the receiver’s NVRAM (see “Clearing the NVRAM” on page 5-13) and update the almanac (see “Collecting Almanacs and Ephemerides” on page 2-26) after loading new firmware. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 5-20...
Loading New Firmware Loading Bluetooth Module Firmware Bluetooth module firmware is released as a compressed file that you download and decompress. This file contains the following two files: • btloader.ldr – the Bluetooth module RAM file • btmain.ldp – the Bluetooth module Flash file You must load both files when loading new firmware.
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4. Click Load and wait until 100% of the files load into your receiver (Figure 5-25). Figure 5-25. Bluetooth Firmware Load Complete If you selected an incorrect file, an error message displays at the bottom of the dialog box. Select the NOTICE correct file. 5. Click File Exit. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 5-22...
WARNING hardware. Check This First! Before contacting Topcon support, check the following: • Check all external receiver connections carefully to ensure correct and secure connections. Double check for worn or defective cables.
6-12. If “Can see the icon for the receiver’s Bluetooth module on the computer screen, but cannot connect to it,” see page 6-13. For modem issues: If “Modem-TPS cannot connect to the receiver,” see page 6-13. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Powering Problems For TX RX LED blinking issues: If “For internal FH915+ modems: the TX RX LED flashes red,” see page 6-15. If “For internal GSM modems: the TX RX LED flashes orange,” see page 6-15. Powering Problems All receivers are preset in the factory to “Auto mode” for both batteries.
RX/TX LED is solid green • The LED indicates that the rover has established a radio link with the base receiver, however it is not receiving RTK Corrections. • Check to make sure that the base is tracking enough satellites. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Receiver Problems • Check to make sure that the base is transmitting via a radio scanner or by setting up the base receiver with PC-CDU or application software. The RX/TX LED is flashing red on my receiver • A fault condition has been detected. •...
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• Refer to the PC-CDU Reference Manual for a detailed description of options. The receiver tracks too few satellites The elevation mask value is too high (above 15 degrees). Lower the elevation mask. See page 3-30 for information on setting the elevation mask. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
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Receiver Problems The survey is conducted near obstructions (tree canopy, tall buildings, and so forth). • Check that the Multipath Reduction boxes have been enabled. 1. Connect your receiver and a computer and start PC-CDU. See “Connecting the Receiver and a Computer”...
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• Check that the radio modem’s antenna is undamaged. If damaged, contact your TPS dealer to replace the antenna. The specified baud rate is incompatible with the baud rates the modem supports. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
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Receiver Problems The baud rate is the rate at which the receiver transmits differential messages to the modem and vice versa. Change the baud rate to that which your modem supports. Refer to the modem’s manual for information. The Base and Rover modems use different radio link parameters.
• Unplug the cable, then securely and properly reconnect it to the receiver. If using a cable, the cable is damaged. • Use an undamaged cable. • Contact your TPS dealer to purchase a new cable. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 6-10...
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Bluetooth Problems The COM port the receiver is attached to differs from the one selected in BTCONF. • Ensure that the RS232 cable is attached to the COM port specified in the BTCONF communication port list. • See “Bluetooth Module Configuration” on page 2-23 for details.
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• Check that the power cable is attached to the port marked “PWR”. • Unplug the cable, then securely and properly reconnect it to the receiver. • If the power cable is damaged, contact your Dealer to purchase a new cable. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 6-12...
Modem-TPS Problems The receiver’s Slot 2(C) is turned off. 1. Connect your receiver and a computer using an RS232 cable (see “Establishing an RS232 Cable Connection” on page 2-22). 2. Click Configuration Receiver General. 3. In the Turn on/off Slots area, enable the Slot 2(C) check box.
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• Check that the computer and receiver use the correct ports for communication. For the GR-3 receiver, this is port A. The corresponding modem options may be disabled or expired. • See “Managing Receiver Options” on page 5-10 for details on how to check current options.
TX RX LED Blink Pattern on Error Conditions TX RX LED Blink Pattern on Error Conditions For internal FH915+ modems: the TX RX LED flashes red A fault condition has been detected. • Check that the radio modem’s antenna is undamaged. Contact your dealer to replace the antenna.
If in doubt... support@topcon.com For quick and effective support, provide a detailed description of the problem. When e-mailing TPS customer support, provide the following information for better, faster service: 1. The receiver model and configuration settings. GR-3 Operator’s Manual 6-16...
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, and so forth.
Appendix A Specifications This TPS product is a 72-channel GNSS receiver with an internal radio modem, a Bluetooth® wireless technology module, an optional GMS module, and a rugged magnesium housing complete with MINTER and cable connectors. Performance specifications assume a minimum of 6 GPS satellites above 15 degrees in elevation and NOTICE adherence to the procedures recommended in this...
General Details Table A-1 lists the receiver’s general specifications. Table A-1. Receiver General Specifications Physical Enclosure Magnesium, IP66 extrusion, rainproof Color Topcon Yellow and Topcon Grey Dimensions W:156.6 x H:234.5 x D:156.6 mm Weight 1.78 kg Antenna Internal Battery...
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Receiver Specifications Table A-1. Receiver General Specifications (Continued) Storage temperature -20 C° to +35 C° with batteries -40 C° to +75 C° without batteries Humidity Power External batteries Li-ion, 3900 mAh, 7.2 V; 2 batteries; detachable Battery size 132 x 52 x 25 (mm) Battery weight 165 g (1 battery) Operating time...
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10cm code phase and 0.1mm carrier phase precision RTCM SC104 version 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, and 3.0 I/O Multiple Base RTCM Geoid and Magnetic Variation models RAIM Different DATUMs support Output of grid coordinates CMR and CMR+ support GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Cinderella days is an option that turns a single frequency, GPS receiver into a dual-frequency, GPS+GLONASS receiver for 24 hours every other Tuesday at GPS midnight. Refer to Topcon’s website for more information and specific Cinderella day dates. Bluetooth Module Details Table A-3 lists the Bluetooth wireless technology module’s general...
Receiver Specifications Table A-3. Bluetooth Module Specifications (Continued) Frequency Country North America and Europe Code Internal TPS Spread Spectrum Modem Details Table A-4 lists the internal TPS spread spectrum modem’s general specifications. Table A-4. Internal TPS Spread Spectrum Specifications General Frequency Range 902 to 928 MHz, United States country/region/...
Connector Reverse polarity TNC Gain 2.5 dBi Digital UHF Modem General Specifications Table A-5 lists the Digital UHF modem’s general specifications. Table A-5. GR-3 Digital UHF Modem General Specifications Parameter Specification Operating frequency range 410-470 MHz country/region/purpose dependent Modulation techniques...
Digital UHF Transmitter Specifications Table A-5. GR-3 Digital UHF Modem General Specifications (Continued) Parameter Specification Data speed of serial interface Max 115200 bps Forward Error Correction Available Scrambling Available Communication mode Half-Duplex Digital UHF Transmitter Specifications Table A-6 lists the Digital UHF Transmitter’s general specifications.
Spread Reverse Modem I/O RF/GSM output from Spectrum polarity TNC modem antenna Power Connector Rimmed in red, the power connector (Figure A-1) is a sealed receptacle, 5 pin, ODU part number G80F1C-T05QF00-0000. Figure A-1. Power Connector GR-3 Operator’s Manual A-12...
Digital UHF Receiver Specifications Table A-9 gives power connector specifications. Table A-9. Power Connector Specifications Number Signal Name Details Power_INP 9 to 21 volts DC input Power_INP 9 to 21 volts DC input Power_GND Ground, power return Power_GND Ground, power return Aux_Power 9 to 21 volts DC input Serial C-RS232 Connector...
TPS cable connector (Figure A-3). Figure A-3. USB Connector for GGD Options Table A-11 gives the USB connector specifications. Table A-11. USB Specifications Number Signal Name Details USB_PWR Bus power input USB D- Data minus USB D+ Data plus Ground GR-3 Operator’s Manual A-14...
Appendix B Safety Warnings General Warnings To comply with RF exposure requirements, maintain at least 25cm between the user and the NOTICE radio modem. TPS receivers are designed for survey and survey related uses (that is, surveying coordinates, WARNING distances, angles and depths, and recording such measurements).
• Do not short circuit. • Do not crush or modify. This product contains a CR Lithium Battery which contains Perchlorate Material - special handling WARNING may apply. See http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/ perchlorate/ Note: This is applicable to California, USA only. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Usage Warnings Usage Warnings Handling the cord on this product, or cords associated with accessories sold with this product, will expose you to lead, a chemical known to the WARNING State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. If this product has been dropped, altered, transported or shipped without proper packaging, or CAUTION...
Appendix C Regulatory Information The following sections provide information on this product’s compliance with government regulations for use. UHF Radio Usage Using a UHF radio requires a license. Operating a UHF radio without a license may result in fines or NOTICE other penalties.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. Any changes or modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by the party responsible for CAUTION compliance could void your authority to operate such equipment. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
Community of Europe Compliance Community of Europe Compliance The product described in this manual is in compliance with the R&TTE and EMC directives from the European Community. Canadian Emission Labeling Requirements 1. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
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Regulatory Information information about the take-back and recycling of this product, please contact your supplier where you purchased the product or consult. GR-3 Operator’s Manual...
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1-8, 2-9, 2-15 Batteries CDMA Modem See also Power management 3-23 Activation 2-15 attach 3-20 Setting Up 2-17, 2-18 auxiliary Charging cradle base station 2-17 powering GR-3 2-16 battery shell status button P/N 7010-0736 P/N 7010-0736 Index Index...
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Modem configuration 1-22, 4-2 Horizontal spacer See Radio configuration 1-22, 4-2 part number Modem frequency range 1-12 Modem status 1-10 Modem, types for GR-3 2-3, 3-3 Modem-TPS Information mode computer requirements 5-14 disconnect 5-16 sleep install 5-14 STAT LED...
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