LIVERMORE, Calif. –  Topcon Positioning Systems (TPS) announced a new laser scanner, the GLS-1500, that speeds up point cloud collection – 30,000 points per second – in an ‘all-in-one’ design to reduce the amount of equipment needed in the field.

“Topcon’s Precise Scan technology data collection – at 30,000 points per second and a 150 meter range – sets the bar for the industry,” Fred Moser, Topcon laser scanner sales manager, said. “The GLS-1500 is 10 times faster than the previous model.

“The GLS-1500 is designed to provide quick and hassle-free setups to save time and improve productivity,” Moser said. “Portability, accuracy and dependability are key customer needs. The GLS-1500 meets those needs in an all on-board, one-person instrument, that saves time and labor costs.”

It has a built-in 2.0 megapixel digital camera so when connected to a PC and using Topcon’s ScanMaster software, a live video feed of the job site can be streamed to aid in scan setup and data acquisition. Also, the GLS-1500 has an onboard data collector with keypad and LCD display which allows it to be used as a stand-alone laser scanner.

Data collected from the GLS-1500 can be stored onboard on an SD memory card or logged into a PC. Moser said, “With the GLS-1500’s built-in wireless LAN connection, you can control the scanner on a PC from the comfort of your vehicle.”

Topcon’s Precise Scan Technology is an innovation that allows consistent, high accuracy measurements over a wide range of distances. Utilizing lens arrays, and SAW filtering, the GLS-1500 provides unparalleled stable and precise accuracy measurements from 1 – 150 meters.

The GLS-1500 features include: 

-- 30,000 precise points per second. 10 times faster data collection than previous models;

-- Precise Scan Technology for industry-leading clean point cloud data;

-- Lens array optics technology to maintain distance accuracy from 1-150 meters;

-- Additional ranging past 330 meters;

-- Onboard scan control software stores scan data and images to a standard SD card for easy download;

-- Eye-safe and invisible Class 1 laser.

“With the Class 1 laser classification, users can scan near airports, busy traffic areas, and populated areas with no effect to the people or the environment.” Moser said. The use of a Class 1 invisible laser offers the benefit of low power consumption. “With lower power consumption, the GLS-1500 can operate for longer times with fewer battery changes and that saves time on the job.”

Moser said, “The GLS-1500 has what the operator needs onboard in the field – in one instrument. It is yet another example of Topcon’s ‘field-to-finish’ solutions for surveyors and civil engineers.”


Topcon Positioning Systems, Inc. (TPS) designs and manufactures precise positioning products and solutions for the global surveying, construction, agriculture, civil engineering, mapping and GIS, asset management and mobile control markets. TPS’ parent company, Topcon Corporation (Tokyo Stock Exchange – 7732), was founded in 1932.