Technical information

226 | Chapter 18 Entering Observations
Using a Data Collector
If you capture field observations with a data collector, then you can down-
load that information directly into a drawing using one of the data collector
programs included with Survey, Survey Link DC or Geodimeter. You can also
use the Data Collection/Input
➤ Other command to customize your menu to
run other data collection software programs.
The Survey Link DC and Geodimeter data collection programs take the obser-
vations entered into your data collector (traverses, sideshots, linework, and
point symbols), and convert the raw data files into field book files automat-
ically. The field book files, which you can import into a drawing and point
database, are ASCII text files that organize your observed data using the
Survey Command Language. Survey supports data transfer from Leica/WILD,
TDS, Sokkia/Leitz SDR, Topcon FC4, and Geodimeter data collectors. You can
set up these data collectors to use Survey figure descriptions, description
keys, and Survey Command Language.
To provide maximum flexibility, the collector should be set to record raw
angles and distances. Data Collectors set up with description key codes plot
symbols at point locations and provide layer control for points and symbols
when you import a field book file. If you enter figure commands into your
data collector when collecting field data, then you can use point codes in
your data collector to both match the figure prefixes and plot the figures that
you collected. To successfully download the data collector and convert the
raw data file into a Survey field book file, set the communication parameters
that are particular to your data collector.
To eliminate data entry errors, creating a field book is the best way to import
survey information. It is important to note that field book data is stored in
the same format as would be entered with the Survey Command Line.
After you are familiar with the Survey Command Language you can
manually create field book files in a text editor and then import these files
into a drawing. You can also edit field book files to correct information that
may have been missed in the field.
Key Concepts
■ When locating survey data, make sure the collector is recording raw angles
and distances.
■ You can use description key codes in the field to automatically plot
symbols at point locations.
■ When setting up the communication, the settings for the collector and
the collector program that you are using in Survey (Survey Link DC, or
Geodimeter) must be set the same.