March 31

The second day of the conference was also the first and only full day for the exhibit hall to be open. Although several exhibitors commented that traffic was rather slow, attendees were able to take advantage of this by having more time to visit the different manufacturers' booths and explore the products on display. Exhibitors also took advantage of this day, introducing potential buyers to their current products and introducing some new ones.

Topcon announced three new products: the HiPerLite cable-free RTK GPS system; the GTS-230 series; and the HiPer+.

The HiPerLite is a cable-less RTK GPS system. The complete, integrated RTK base and rover system contains a high-performance 915 MHz spread spectrum radio, which provides interference-free communications up to 1.5 miles. Topcon's new system incorporates 40-channel dual-frequency GPS technology, the Paradigm Chip and tracking technology such as Co-Op tracking and Advanced Multipath Reduction (AMR). Topcon says it is offering the system at a "price tag that won't break the bank."

Staying with the wireless theme, the new GTS-230 series is the first electronic total station series with cable-free wireless operation.

And Topcon proudly announced that the HiPer+ is the world's first wireless dual-constellation GPS system and the first GPS system capable of 1Gb internal data storage. The HiPer+ offers an integrated design that includes GPS receiver, antenna, power supply and RTK radio link in a compact, waterproof, durable housing.

Sokkia also introduced a new product today. The SET230R, its new reflectorless total station features Sokkia's RED-tech (REvolutionary Digital processing technology) EDM that maximizes the speed and precision of reflectorless distance measurement. A new feature that the SET230R offers is the optional "Guide Light," which indicates left and right positions in green and red colors.

There was plenty to partake in off the show floor as well today. A panel session on "The New ACSM: Evolving into the Future" was held, moderated by Curt Sumner. Participants discussed the proposed new structure of the ACSM and the final vote is scheduled to take place in May. The ACSM award ceremony was also held this evening.