Pop Quiz: Do You Need 3D Grade Control?

If you answer 'true' to most of the questions in this quiz, a two-dimensional grade-control system might make your earthmoving equipment more profitable than an investment in 3D grade automation

Cat Slope Assist

Take this quick quiz before you buy a grade-control system for your earthmoving or other construction equipment.

True or false?

___ Most of my jobs involve working on flat planes or slight grades.

___ I tend to do the same types of jobs on most days.

___ I usually work in the same types of materials.

___ I’m not a technology expert and don’t have one in my company.

___ The price of a grade control system is my primary concern.

___ It’s not unusual to lose the GPS signal in areas where I work.

If you answered “true” to most of the questions, you might not need a 3D system—at least not yet. 2D could be a better option.

Try 2D

2D systems make a great first investment. They’re simpler and less expensive than 3D systems but deliver the same kinds of benefits.

  • Quick, precise grading with fewer passes and less rework
  • High productivity, even with less experienced operators
  • Big cost savings (fuel, materials and labor)

2D systems perform well in applications ranging from road construction and maintenance to pad building, site prep, ditch cutting and more. They’re especially effective for repetitive work that entails flatter planes and simple slopes. They’re also useful when working in areas where GPS signals are blocked or lost. In many cases, the components are portable, so they can be used on more than one machine. And 2D systems are scalable, so you can choose a simple system now and build on that investment with an easy upgrade to 3D.

Talk to a professional

Obviously, there’s more to choosing a grade control system than answering a few true-false questions, but let the quiz be a starting point. Meet with a professional. Evaluate your options together, then select the system that best meets your requirements.


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