VIDEO: Trimble integrates GNSS and optical functionality into one surveying system

Trimble has released its new-generation surveying system: the Trimble ST30 smart target. This new system integrates optical and subscription-based GNSS functionality into a single solution. Focusing on traceability, redundancy, versatility, and safety, the ST30 introduces tilt compensation and automatic rod height measurements, giving surveyors a dual-use tool for both optical and GNSS applications. 

The ST30 is designed for a wide variety of surveying and construction tasks, including topographic surveys, stakeout, as-built verification, and cadastral work. The system integrates with Trimble's field, office, and cloud software solutions to provide trustworthy, traceable accuracy and enhance the integrity of collected data. These integrations include the Trimble S-, RTS-, or SPS-series of robotic total stations, Trimble Access, Trimble Siteworks, Trimble FieldLink field software, Trimble Business Center office software, and Trimble Connect common data environment. 

"The Trimble ST30 smart target enhances what's possible from a surveying system. It delivers a transformative field experience by ensuring uninterrupted productivity and accuracy with robust, reliable total station tracking," said Boris Skopljak, senior vice president, geospatial at Trimble. "With optical and GNSS tilt compensation, automated rod height, and integrated GNSS, users can reduce costly errors and work safely in more hard-to-access areas."

Features of Trimble's ST30 smart target system 

The ST30 smart target features an integrated design that unifies the 360-degree prism, IMU, GNSS receiver, and automated rod height functionality into a single device. Constructed with magnesium and aluminum, a protective top bumper, and shielded LEDs, it is engineered to meet the daily demands of challenging job sites, including wet conditions.

Features include:

• Fully adjustable rod height — Automatic rod height measurements minimize errors from forgetting to change the rod height, providing accuracy and removing a significant source of rework. 
• Prism accuracy — Accurate 360-degree prism for measurement results enables the millimeter-level precision required to expand optical workflows into additional tight-tolerance applications.
• Tilt compensation — By eliminating the need to constantly watch a level bubble, tilt compensation keeps operators focused on the task at hand and aware of active job site hazards. Because this capability applies to both total station and GNSS measurements to accelerate topographic and stakeout workflows, operators can safely measure hard-to-access points with a tilted pole while reducing instrument setups and avoiding manual offset calculations. 
• Active tracking and target ID — A new patented technology, the smart target's comprehensive three-pillar tracking system maintains a continuous lock on the target in challenging environments. Enhanced active tracking prevents false locks from reflective surfaces, target ID ensures the total station only follows the assigned target, and Trimble GeoLock GNSS-assisted technology quickly regains lost lock.
• Integrated GNSS — Available as a separate subscription beginning in 2027, high-accuracy GNSS brings integrated survey workflows to every station setup, reducing fieldwork complexity by streamlining site calibration and setup of control while also allowing users to work beyond the constraints of optical line-of-sight.

"The ST30's rugged design and automated features increase confidence on the job and reduce the potential for human error, which is particularly beneficial for an industry facing increased complexity, shorter deadlines and tighter tolerances," said Scott Crozier, senior vice president, civil construction at Trimble.