Technology Update March 2008

Glacier Ridgeline Tablet
The Ridgeline Tablet from Glacier Computer delivers portable, rugged computing power to workers in harsh environments, including utility and construction applications. The Windows XP device is capable of running most any application while withstanding extremes of water and humidity at extreme temperatures.

Each tablet computer is designed and tested to withstand repeated 3-ft. drops to concrete, as well as IP 65 sealing mandates. It is equipped with a convenient touch-screen interface that workers use to retrieve and send information. The 10.4-in. display offers options for daylight readable functionality.

Each unit comes with an integrated 802.11 a/b/g radio, Bluetooth, numerous I/O and many hard drive options. Users can input data via touch screen or pen.

"Long battery life and wireless LAN technology allow instant access to a database, work order, blueprint, parts list or another computer," says Dan Poisson, director of engineering. "With an integrated GPS module, the Ridgeline Tablet becomes an indispensable tool to an employee in the field."

Trimble Wireless Data Controller
Trimble is now offering wireless capabilities for its LM80 Layout Manager. The solution incorporates a new controller and office software for real-time two-way data transfer between the project design team in the office and contractors at the jobsite.

The LM80 Layout Manager creates a digital replica of the building blueprint in the field, connecting both mechanical and robotic total stations to provide accurate, fast and simple building layout. The new wireless data controller includes wireless communications, Bluetooth connection capabilities, a highly visible screen and a fast processor. It enables design engineers to make changes immediately available to the contractor, and the contractor can transfer as-builts in real time to communicate progress reports and problems.

"As buildings become more architecturally complex, they also become more difficult for engineers to verify designs and contractors to perform layout," notes Pat Bohle, Building Construction Business Area Manager. "The Trimble LM80 Layout Manager, combined with the accuracy of a total station and capabilities of the new wireless data controller, deliver a powerful, easy to use tool to the general and concrete contractor."

Carlson Layout
Carlson Layout is designed to ease and speed the calculations required to lay out the foundations, columns and utilities of architectural buildings. Using conventional or robotic total stations, the system sets out corners, offsets and columns, minimizing the need for taping distances or making complicated calculations. The program moves smoothly between decimal feet and architectural feet and inches.

"This is a simple sketch and tap system, with point numbers optional," says Bruce Carlson, founder and president. "With Carlson Layout, building plans are digital and portable, in your pocket, ready for location, computing and staking."

Derived from the Carlson SurvCE 2.0, Carlson Layout offers a new layout interface that allows replication of paper blueprints or building digital plans simply and quickly. Traditional entry methods are also supported.

The program can be connected to most electronic total stations. Data can be imported with Carlson Survey, Civil and SurvCE and other desktop software.