Thanks for starting this discussion Tim, and I hope it doesn't get too
bogged down by people who feel the need to flash their analogue credentials.

Our experience in Iceland is that the total station technology is more or
less the same as it was 10 years ago, with the main development being in
surface scanning for standing features and in the integration with more
powerful data loggers. I'd say the biggest development in the digitization
of field survey is the move away from point-based topographic survey to
drone photogrammetry accompanied by ground control point survey.

The establishment of VRS networks by Trimble (and I presume their
competitors) means you are less likely to have to invest in a two-sensor
DGPS system. We use Trimble GeoExplorers which you can get either with an
RTK subscription for real-time accuracy, or post-process the survey data
using their proprietary software. Spits out shapefiles and other spatial
data formats.

There are a few custom-built apps here in Europe that capture data in
formats for easy migration into spatial SQL databases, like IntraSIS (a
proprietary PostGIS interface). I'd be really interested in hearing how
US-based contract archaeologists are integrating field capture with their
wider data management practices.

GP



On Tue, Oct 2, 2018 at 7:51 PM John Foster <[log in to unmask]>
wrote:

> I tend to draft all relevant field notes and graphics by hand.  I can't
> afford failure in the field.  John Foster, RPAPresident
> Greenwood-Associates.com
> Greenwood and Associates
> 310.717.5048
>
>       From: Timothy Scarlett <[log in to unmask]>
>  To: [log in to unmask]
>  Sent: Tuesday, October 2, 2018 10:04 AM
>  Subject: Re: Digital Survey gear
>
> I love measuring and drawing by hand. Don’t get me wrong. Drafting is a
> deeply satisfying activity for me during fieldwork.
>
> My question is not intended to open the digital vs. analog debate, which
> is entirely pointless in 2018. I find it valuable to measure and draw by
> hand and also to use LiDAR scans with sub-millimeter accuracy.
>
> Different tools, each with it’s advantages and disadvantages.
>
> I want to know what crews are using the professional field these days.
>
> THanks
> Tim
>
>
> > On Oct 2, 2018, at 12:57 PM, Carl Steen <
> [log in to unmask]> wrote:
> >
> > I agree with Richard, but would like to hear what other list members
> have to say. I know of people experimenting with using cheap smartphones as
> data collectors, but as I understand it, the results were variable.
> >
> >
> > On 10/2/2018 12:44 PM, Richard Lundin wrote:
> >> Tim:
> >>
> >> Being VERY old fashioned, I  and the rather elderly WRI Crew Members
> still,
> >> EFFECTIVELY, use my plane table and alidade for geological mapping and
> >> geophysical surveys. I train students on how to use it just as fast as
> as
> >> the EDM systems and you have a paper map that shows you if have done the
> >> work correctly and the relationships between the various survey points
> and
> >> features, IMMEDIATELY.
> >>
> >> It is great for work in other, less tech countries and WILL NOT go down
> >> from lack of the correct batteries or an EMP.
> >>
> >> So, get the new stuff, BUT, keep the old systems handy. YOU, MAY need
> them
> >> if things go bad as history says they will!
> >>
> >> Rich Lundin, WRI
> >>
> >> On Tue, Oct 2, 2018 at 8:43 AM Timothy Scarlett <[log in to unmask]>
> wrote:
> >>
> >>> Hi all,
> >>> It is time to replace our digital survey equipment and I need advice.
> We
> >>> have been using 10-15 year old total station and handheld gps units.
> Those
> >>> still work, but really need to be replaced with newer gear.
> >>>
> >>> For those working in CRM, what geospatial devices/instruments are you
> >>> using in the field with your crews? What do you like/dislike?
> >>> I’d like our students to learn to use the types of gear that they will
> >>> actually use when they take positions with companies and agencies.
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> Thanks
> >>> Tim Scarlett
> >>> Michigan Tech
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