A base DC50 package comes with software installed and ready to work. Inside the box, you will receive an assembled DC50 unit, a 1GB SD card, your 250 page printed manual, and any accessories you select.
The DC50 will connect to a single instrument through a standard 9 pin serial cable. Using Bluetooth, you can connect wirelessly to additional devices. To add Bluetooth communication to your unit, be sure to add it to your cart before checkout. If you'd like an integrated rod mount or a tripod hook, please add them also.
Features
The DC50 was designed for quick, accurate field work. The design team personally uses it daily for licensed surveying work. We are our own harshest critics - and it shows! Every aspect of this system has been polished to give you the best data collector possible.
Operation
The DC50 features a full keyboard with legendary HP calculator quality. Our unique work flow gives you single touch access to all main collection functions. For example, a single shot will trigger a sideshot at any time. You can immediately perform an offset by pressing a second key. Press a third to perform a stakeout shot. Digging through menus is a waste of valuable time. Don't let other devices waste yours.
We recognize that customization is key to getting the most out of your crew. The DC50 allows you full access to easy keyboard customization commands. In addition, we are the ONLY modern data collector which allows you to easily write custom routines for integration with our system.
Don't feel like writing your own programs? Other users are already posting their routines online. In addition, there is a vast library of software online that does everything from adding spreadsheet capabilities to personal organizers.
Learning Curve
We are confident that our system has the shortest learning curve of any modern data collector. Why are we so confident? Because that is what our customers tell us. Many report that with less than an hour of training they are able to complete the same amount of work on their first day using our system.
Part of the ease of learning the DC50 operation comes from our use of consistent interfaces throughout the program. We use easy to learn icon menus for access to certain calculation routines and configuration areas. For calculations with lots of input, we use informative data entry screens. Then subsequent calculations can be done using one touch menu functions.
Our software is completely integrated with the most powerful hand held calculator ever built. You always have access to its powerful calculation capabilities. You can perform math functions in any field, anywhere! Power users love the flexibility offered; others love the ease of use - make everyone happy.
Little Details
Surveyors know that little details matter. The DC50 has many little details that show just how much we care about our products. Take the screen for example.
Other modern data collectors have touch screens. Touch screens are nice...until you use them outside. Touch screens are just too fragile, too hard to clean, and really unnecessary for field work. The pretty colors disappear the moment sunlight hits them.
The DC50 doesn't have these issues. We worked with HP to change the manufacturing process so the screen is visible using polarized sunglasses. Our protective screen cover is made out of durable polycarbonate. We tested impact resistance by dropping heavy tools over six feet directly onto the screen. We left a small raised edge which lets you wipe it off on your shirt sleeve.
The DC50 has the easiest battery access available on any data collector. Running on four AA batteries, you can work days between charges. Run out at the jobsite? The local gas station has your backup supply.
Did we mention it floats?
Speed
Everything comes down to speed and accuracy. The DC50 is designed to give you the easiest to use, most productive modern data collector possible - at a reasonable price!
Connect
Connectivity on the DC50 is excellent. A base DC50 can connect with a wide variety of instruments using your current 9-pin serial cable. No special adapter is needed. If you upgrade to wireless Bluetooth, your DC50 will be able to communicate with up to three instruments simultaneously.
| Brand | Supported | Not Yet |
| Geodimeter | 600 series | |
| Leica | TC605/L, TC805/L TC905/L
TC302, TC303, TC305, TC307
TCR302, TCR303, TCR305, TCR307
TCR702, TCR703, TCR705
TC(R)702 auto, TC(R)703 auto, TC(R)705 auto
TC1100/L, TC1500/L, TC1700/L, TC1800/L
TCM1100/L, TCM1800/L
TCA1100/L, TCA1800/L
TC1101,TC1102, TC1103, TC1105
TCR1101, TCR1102, TCR1103 TCR1105
TCM1101, TCM1102, TCM1103 TCM1105
TCRM1101, TCRM1102, TCRM1103 TCRM1105
TCA1101, TCA1102, TCA1101 TCA1105
TCRA1101, TCRA1102, TCRA1101 TCRA1105 | 1200 |
| Nikon | all models | |
| Pentax | all models | |
| Sokkia | All Set Models
230RMC | SRX |
| Topcon | GTS/GPT Series (all older models)
CTS models
GTS/GTL Robotic Stations | AP-L1 |
| Trimble | 5600 series, all varieties | S6 |
| Wild | all models | |
| Zeiss | | all |
If your instrument is not yet supported, don't worry! In fact, if you will work with us you can help immensely. We have added instruments within days--sometimes even within hours!
Bluetooth
The DC50 features optional Bluetooth connectivity. In fact, we are the only data collector to offer built-in long range Bluetooth. While other units offer around 30 feet of range, a DC50 with long range bluetooth can communicate up to 1700 feet with a paired Universal Bluetooth radio. This can eliminate the need for a seperate radio system for most users!
Single Bluetooth
The optional DC50 Bluetooth modules are mounted internally in the case. There are no protruding antennas to snag or break. If your total station has Bluetooth connectivity, you will be able to connect and free yourself from cable issues. Don't have Bluetooth in your instrument? No problem. Using one of our Universal Bluetooth radios, you can easily add a power efficient module to your instrument. These radios will run for 3-5 weeks on just four AA batteries. They are the only Bluetooth radios on the market with internal antennas for maximum durability.
With a paired Precision Bluetooth radio, conventional total stations can be turned into "robots". Leaving one crew member at the instrument to aim, you can control exactly where and when your shot is triggered from the rod-just like with a robot!
Dual Blueooth
With dual Bluetooth radios installed you have all of the features of the single Bluetooth adapter, but you can communicate with multiple instruments at once. This allows for several unique possibilities. You could have one of the adapters configured to communicate with a total station or robot, and the second adapter could be connected to a Leica Disto for accurate offsets. Once we enable GPS, you could have your total station configured on one adapter, and your GPS receiver configured on the other, and switch between each in a second. Robotic users could then use any GPS receiver to aim the instrument at the push of a button.
In the future look for internet access support for Virtual Reference Station RTK. This will require a connection to a cell phone, which will be very convenient via Bluetooth. Feel free to request something you dream up. Who knows? It could be the next big thing!
Data
The DC50 uses human readable, industry standard formats for data storage. This means you most likely already have support for our data without the need for any additional software or transfer utilities.
Coordinates
Coordinates are stored in a plain ASC text file editable by anything. Most CAD packages can natively use plain text, or have plugins available. Here is an example of the ASC files generated by the DC50:
1,5000,5000,500,CONTROL
2,5100,5000,500,CONTROL
3,4994.08389935,5028.53954849,499.987273402,SET SMAW
4,5021.25538098,5010.88616199,500.260120957,FND TBAR
5,5049.15547557,5025.17548241,500.164010433,SET N+T
6,4999.99631616,4999.99610467,499.949381098,CHK 1
7,5021.24453019,5010.88144882,500.235602692,CHK 4
8,5048.49587774,4993.16699801,500.063535887,SET N+T
9,5049.15301305,5025.17563283,500.139360524,CHK 5
10,5019.65800366,5009.66533332,500.613091487,SET NAIL
11,5022.45081863,5009.29313448,500.6284406,SET NAIL
12,5022.825398,5012.11222167,500.636182632,SET NAIL
13,5020.03998416,5012.46627516,500.625690554,SET NAIL
14,4976.57210704,5027.10367354,499.719723251,EP
15,5001.77519312,5033.64495062,500.078564905,EP
Raw Data
Raw data is stored in the standard RW5 format. This format is another very well supported file format usable in most CAD systems. Here is an example of the RW5 file exported by the DC50:
SS,OP3,FP29,AR264.3302,ZE92.121,SD25.57,--EP
SS,OP3,FP30,AR226.1119,ZE92.2455,SD33.4,--EP
SP,PN32,N 5100.,E 5000.,EL100.,--CONTROL
SP,PN31,N 5000.,E 5000.,EL100.,--CONTROL
LS,HI5.61,HR4.84
OC,OP31,N 5000.,E 5000.,EL100.,--CONTROL
BK,OP31,BP32,BS0.,BC0.
--LOADED TO INSTRUMENT BS ANGLE OF 0.
RD,BD 1:359.5959
RD,FD 1:140.4419
RD,ZD 1:91.2102
MD,SD 1:43.66
RD,BV 2:179.5946
RD,FV 2:320.4404
RD,ZV 2:268.3918
MD,SD 2:43.66
SS,OP31,FP33,AR140.4419,ZE91.2052,SD43.66,--SET FORM
RD,BD 1:0.
RD,FD 1:92.1621
RD,ZD 1:92.0307
MD,SD 1:30.245
RD,BV 2:179.5939
RD,FV 2:272.1601
RD,ZV 2:267.5708
MD,SD 2:30.245
SS,OP31,FP34,AR92.16215,ZE92.02595,SD30.245,--FND TBAR
Memory
Data storage on the DC50 is very secure. All data is saved onto a secure digital memory card. You may already have several of these in your house being used in digital cameras or MP3 players.
The DC50 can use SD cards up to 2 gigabytes in size. This means that you have enough storage space to store your entire life's work several times over. These SD cards are exceptionally rugged and will protect your valuable data.
File transfers are completely problem free. Simply place the SD card in your computer and then drag and drop your files. You can even transfer entire jobs between crews out in the field in seconds with only two keystrokes!
Compare
Comparisons will naturally be made to the old HP 48GX calculator used for so long. In these modern times, comparisons will also be made with the “dedicated” data collectors manufactured by other companies.
HP-48GX
We'd prefer you think of the DC50 as a modern data collector that happens to incorporate the tradition and quality of that venerable old workhorse. You may be familiar with the many quirks of the 48GX system. Things such as waiting between pressing keys and seeing anything happen, trying to keep the unit warm or cold to keep it working and flimsy environmental cases that pop open when you drop it.
The DC50 DOESN'T have any of these issues. It utilizes the same type of speedy processor found in all other modern data collectors. It has massive amounts of memory available for use. We've tested it from 130F° down to -40F°. The environmental case is built to resist any field condition you may encounter, and many you'd better hope you never do!
The DC50 DOES carry on the tradition of quality and efficiency valued by so many professionals. It has a quality HP keyboard, powerful HP mathematical capability, and decades of testing and refinement. It has the power to do things never possible before.
In short, the DC50 is a modern system with none of the familiar drawbacks, all of the valued benefits, and many of the advancements offered by modern technology. All this while maintaining the great tradition that came before.
Windows Mobile Devices
Many people automatically assume that the DC50 must be slower than the “dedicated” data collectors offered by our competitors. Nothing could be farther than the truth. In fact, our data import and export is the fastest available. Out plotting (with full automatic linework) is the fastest available. According to whom? Our customers!
The operating system of our unit has been around over a decade longer than Windows Mobile. Is it any wonder the DC50 has less crashes and more uptime?
We try to work everything smarter. For example, you can load GEOID for the entire continental united states onto your SD card directly from the NGS webpage. As you move into new areas, the DC50 automatically extracts and prepares the area. The only thing you'll notice is a 1-second delay as this happens.
Our interface is responsive and fast. It wasn't designed to make you dig into menus using a stylus (which always gets lost). We give quick, one touch keystroke access. You never have long, random pauses that can happen so often in Windows Mobile. Should a disaster happen and the DC50 freeze, a complete reboot (reopening your data files and resuming exactly where you left off) takes only seconds.
Our Bluetooth is problem free! Unlike the Windows mobile, which randomly turns off communications or refuses to connect, ours takes seconds to configure and will never bother you again.
Forgot to charge the unit the night before? Not a problem. Most our competitors will only last a day on a charge; we'll last several days.
In short, practicing surveyors designed it for maximum productivity. We challenge you to give it a try, risk free! You'll be glad you did.
Support
It is our personal goal to provide the best support available. We do this by offering direct phone support. You can actually call and talk to the person who designed and wrote the software for your unit. There aren't many companies left that offer that "old-time" personal support.
We also have the fastest repair in the industry. Should your unit be damaged, we can mail a replacement overnight if needed. Meaning you don't have to spend money renting a unit for a month while yours is getting fixed.
Due to the modular nature of the DC50, individual parts can be replaced very easily. John spent over $3000 and 3 months waiting for his broken "former" data collector to return. If you'd broken the screen like that on a DC50, repairs would have been completed within a day or two, and cost $150.
If you were to completely destroy your DC50 through a rather unfortunate accident involving an airplane, two llamas and a troop of circus clowns, total repair cost would probably be about $700.
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