TRIMBLE EUROPE 111256 Zmax Communication Unit User Manual Z Max Net Getting Started Guide

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GETTING STARTED GUIDE

Z-Max

.Net

www.thalesgroup.com/navigation

English

Trademarks

All product and brand names mentioned in this publication are

trademarks of their respective holders.

FCC Notice

Z-Max.Net Receiver complies with the limits for a Class B dig-

ital device, pursuant to the Part 15 of the FCC rules when it is

used in Portable Mode. See Note below related to Class B de-

vice.

Class B digital devices NOTE: This equipment has been tested

and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,

pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed

to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in

a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and

can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used

in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interfer-

ence to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee

that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this

equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television

reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment

off and on, the user is encouraged to try and correct the interfer-

ence by one or more of the following measures:

- Reorient or locate the receiving antenna.

- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different

from that to which the receiver is connected.

- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for

help.

When Z-Max.Net is used with an external power supply or con-

nected to an external device using the USB port, it complies

with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to the Part

15 of the FCC rules. See Note below related to Class A device.

Class A digital devices NOTE: This equipment has been tested

and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,

pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed

to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference

when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.

This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency

energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the in-

struction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio com-

munications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is

likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will

be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

Remark: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved

by Thales Navigation, could void the right for user to operate

the equipment.

RF Safety Exposure To Radio Frequency Energy (SAR)

Radio transmitting devices radiate Radio Frequency (RF) ener-

gy during its operation. RF energy can be absorbed into the hu-

man body and potentially can cause adverse health effects if

excessive levels are absorbed. The unit of measurement for hu-

man exposure to RF energy is "Specific Absorption Rate"

(SAR).

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Industrie

Canada (IC), and other agencies around the world have estab-

lished limits that incorporate a substantial safety margin de-

signed to assure the safety of all persons using this equipment.

In order to certify this unit for sale in the US, Canada and Eu-

rope this unit has been tested for RF exposure compliance at a

qualified test laboratory and found to comply with the regula-

tions regarding exposure to RF Energy.SAR was measured with

the unit (GSM Module) transmitting at its maximum certified

RF power. Often, however, during normal operation the unit

(GSM Module) will transmit much less than maximum power.

Transmit power is controlled automatically and, in general is re-

duced as you get closer to a cellular base station. This reduction

in transmit power will result in a lower RF energy exposure and

resulting SAR value.

SAR: ANSI/IEEE C95.1 1992

FCC OET Bulletin 65 Supplement C

1999/519/CE

The highest SAR value for this wireless survey system when

worn on the body, as described in this user guide, is 1.44 W/kg.

No separation from the body is required when the wireless sur-

vey system is in operation as the SAR measurements were taken

with the unit "touching" the surface of the body. The device

main intent use is for handheld operations only.

FCC and CE UHF Safety Statement

The different versions of the UHF Transmitters are FCC and CE

compliant.

In order to comply with FCC and CE RF exposure safety guide-

lines as body-worn, normal use of unit, the following must be

followed:

A distance of AT LEAST 10 feet (3 m) of separation between

the users body and the unit (UHF Transmitter). This distance

has been defined taken into account the FCC and CE Require-

ments and the worst output power configuration.

Do NOT use the device in a manner such that it is in direct con-

tact with the body (e.g. on the lap). Such use will likely exceed

FCC RF safety exposure limits. See www.fcc.gov/oet/rfsafety/

for more information on RF exposure safety.

Antenna Care/Unauthorized Modifications

Use only the supplied integral antenna. Unauthorized antenna

modifications or attachments could damage the unit and may vi-

olate FCC and CE regulations. Any changes or modifications

not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance

could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Replacing the Thales U-Link Transmitter Power Fuse

The Thales U-Link transmitter is protected by a 4-A fuse

inserted in the data/power cable. This Y-shaped cable is used to

connect the U-Link transmitter to the Z-Max.Net receiver via a

7-pin connector, and to the power battery.

Should you have to replace this fuse, please get a spare fuse,

4 A, fast acting, ATO type, and then do the following:

- Unplug the battery end of the data/power cable

- Open the fuse holder located along the data/power cable

- Extract the damaged fuse

- Insert the new fuse and then push the holder lid back into place

- Connect the data/power cable back to the battery.

Where to Find Information

This manual is designed to guide you through the basic

Z-Max.Net procedures. You can find additional information in

the Z-Max.Net Reference Manual, also provided on the

Z-Max.Net CD.

Warranties

Refer to the Z-Max.Net Reference Manual.

English

Table of Contents

Introduction..........................................................................1

System Components Overview ............................................... 1

Locating the Basic Components.............................................. 3

Z-Max.Net Front Panel............................................................ 3

Bluetooth® Port................................................................. 4

Status LEDs....................................................................... 4

Front Panel Display........................................................... 5

Control Keys...................................................................... 5

Power Key ......................................................................... 6

SD Card Reader and USB ................................................. 6

Z-Max.Net Rear Panel.............................................................6

GNSS Antenna Configurations ...............................................7

Base ................................................................................... 7

Pole-Mounted Rover ......................................................... 7

Backpack-Mounted Rover................................................. 7

Preparing For First-Time Use .............................................8

Charging the Power Module.................................................... 8

Attaching the Lateral Modules ................................................ 9

Attaching the GNSS Antenna Module .................................... 9

Inserting a Memory Card.......................................................10

Turning On/Off the System................................................... 10

Initializing the System........................................................... 11

Checking that Z-Max.Net Receives Satellites....................... 12

RTK Surveying ...................................................................13

RTK Surveying Method Requirements................................. 13

RTK Base Setup ....................................................................14

Choosing the Installation Site.......................................... 14

Setting Up the RTK Base................................................ 14

RTK Rover Setup .................................................................. 16

Establishing Bluetooth Communication with Z-Max.Net..... 18

Introduction ..................................................................... 18

Powering up the Whole Equipment................................. 19

Detecting Bluetooth-Enabled Devices ............................ 19

Finding Bluetooth Services ............................................. 20

Assigning Virtual Ports to Bluetooth .............................. 20

Saving Bluetooth Serial Port Settings ............................. 21

Defining/Saving Bluetooth Settings for FAST Survey ... 22

Toggling Bluetooth Between Base and Rover ................ 23

Configuring the RTK Base.................................................... 23

Launching FAST Survey................................................. 23

Configuring the Base and the Data Link ......................... 24

Entering the Base Position and ID................................... 25

Setting the Radio ............................................................. 26

Configuring the RTK Rover.................................................. 27

Case #1: Rover Using a UHF Radio Data Link .............. 28

English

Case #2: Rover Using a GSM/GPRS Data Link............. 30

Saving Base and Rover Settings ........................................... 32

Running an RTK Survey....................................................... 32

Logging RTK Points ....................................................... 33

Logging RTK Points in Continuous Mode ..................... 34

Staking out RTK Points .................................................. 35

Downloading RTK Results to GNSS Solutions.................... 37

Post-processing Surveying...............................................39

Reminder on the Static Surveying Method ........................... 39

Running a Static Survey........................................................ 40

Equipment Setup............................................................. 40

Getting the Z-Max.Net Unit Started in Static ................. 41

Starting Data Collection.................................................. 43

End of Data Collection.................................................... 43

Downloading Field Data to your PC..................................... 45

Post-Processing Field Data ................................................... 46

Front Panel Interface Function Diagram..........................48

English

1. Introduction

Congratulations! You have just acquired your new dual-

frequency Z-Max™.Net GNSS Surveying System from

Thales!

GNSS (or Global Navigation Satellite System) has

revolutionized control surveys, topographic data collection

and construction surveying. Purchasing the right tools for a

professional job is essential in today's competitive business

environment.

Learning to put these tools to work quickly and efficiently

will be the focus of the present guide.

System Components Overview

The table below provides an overview of the different key

items composing the Z-Max.Net System. Depending on

your purchase, based on the type of survey you wish to

perform, you may only have part of the listed items. Please

refer to the delivered packing list for an accurate description

of the equipment that has been delivered to you.

Conversely, as this table is just an overview, it does not list

all the possible items and accessories. For example, the list

of all the possible field terminals is provided but we

intentionally do not mention the field brackets that usually

come along with them. For more information on these items,

please contact your dealer.

For ordering information, please refer to the Z-Max.Net

Reference Manual.

English

Basic Post-Processing Rover, RTK

GPS Receiver

Module

V-Module (1)

(Void module) Communication

Module

Rover, Backpack

GNSS Antenna

Module Backpack UHF Antenna

Module (2)

Power Module Range Pole

RF Adapter Range Pole

Charger Max RF

Adapter

Mounting

Bracket

Field Terminal Radio

USB Cable

Thales

MobileMap-

per CE

Thales U-Link

transmitter

Serial Data

Cable

Juniper

Allegro CX

Pacific-Crest

UHF Transmitter

Static, Base Software RF Cables

HI measure-

ment tool

GNSS Solu-

tions CD GPS-RF cable

eHI Measure-

ment Plate

FAST Survey

CD UHF-RF cable

Transport Case Memory Device

(1) Also used in an RTK base using a

UHF radio as the data link.

(2) A void UHF antenna module also

exists.

Soft case SD Card (sold

by Thales)

English

Locating the Basic Components

As you are facing the front panel of the GPS receiver

module, the power module attaches to the left-hand side of

the receiver module and the communication module (or V-

module) to the right-hand side.

Z-Max.Net Front Panel

2. GNSS Antenna Module

3. Power Module 4. Communication Module

or V-Module

1. Receiver

Module

Status LEDs

Front Panel User Interface

Power key

Control keys

Z-Max.Net Bluetooth®

English

Bluetooth® Port

This device allows you to communicate with the Z-Max.Net

through a Bluetooth wireless connection. This port is

identified as “port C” on the Z-Max.Net.

Status LEDs

From left to right, the LEDs are:

•RTK Solution. This LED is only operational when the

receiver is configured as an RTK rover.

•Communication. This LED indicates when real-time

data is transmitted (base) or received (rover).

•Data Log. This LED shows the data logging status.

•Satellite/Power. After power up, this LED will continue

to blink red once every 1-2 seconds to indicate that the

unit is powered on. Between each red blink, the LED will

also blink green once for each satellite that the receiver is

tracking.

Color Meaning

Off Not a RTK rover

Blinking green Fixed solution

Blinking orange Float solution

Blinking red No RTK solution

Color Meaning

Off No data link has been configured

Blinking green Base: Transmits data

Rover: Base data received and used

Blinking red Base: Irrelevant

Rover: Base data received but not used

Not blinking Base: No data transmitted

Rover: No base data received

Color Meaning

Off No data logging in progress

Blinking green Data logging in progress. Blinks at the frequency of the

recording interval setting (20 seconds by default).

Red Unable to log data (memory full)

English

Front Panel Display

The front panel display is an 8-character, alphanumeric LED

display that is used to monitor receiver status, set receiver

parameters and configure the receiver to perform different

types of surveys.

The screen displays up to eight characters at one time.

Messages or parameters longer than eight characters are

scrolled from right to left.

Control Keys

The four control keys are used in conjunction with the front

panel display. They will work differently depending on

whether the screen is in Display or Edit mode.

Display Mode:

Edit Mode:

See Z-Max.Net Reference Manual for more information.

Key Operation

UP (yellow) Scrolls menu (at same level) forward

DOWN (yellow) Scrolls menu (at same level) backward

ENTER (green) Selects and moves down to next level or enters Edit mode

CANCEL (red) Returns to upper level

Key Operation

UP (yellow)

Data entry context: Scrolls forward through characters

Parameter list context: Scrolls forward

Fast scrolling if held depressed for 3 seconds

DOWN (yellow)

Data entry context: Scrolls backward through characters

Parameter list context: Scrolls backward

Fast scrolling if held depressed for 3 seconds

ENTER (green)

Parameter list context: Selects parameter

Data entry context: Accepts character and moves to next space

or quits Edit mode

CANCEL (red)

Data entry context: Deletes last edited character, stays in Edit

mode

Parameter list context: Moves from Edit mode to Display mode

without selecting the parameter.

Down key

Enter key

Cancel key

Up key

English

Power Key

This key is used to power up, power down or initialize the

unit (see page 10).

SD Card Reader and USB

Below the four control keys is a small door fastened by two

thumbscrews. Unscrew the attaching screws and open the

door to reveal the SD Card slot and the USB port.

The SD card slot holds the SD card that serves as the

receiver's data storage memory. All data recorded by the unit

is stored on the SD card. Warning! Use exclusively SD

cards sold by Thales.

The USB port is one of the external ports available for

connecting to a computer. The USB port is a type-B

connector.

Z-Max.Net Rear Panel

For connector pinout, see Z-Max.Net Reference Manual.

Power key

Handle

Port A (RS232)

Port B (RS232 or RS422)

External Power In (10-28 V DC)

English

GNSS Antenna Configurations

In all cases of use, the GNSS antenna module must be

connected to the receiver module. But there are three

different ways of doing this, as explained below.

Base

The GNSS antenna module (A) is directly attached to the

receiver module (B).



Pole-Mounted Rover

The GNSS antenna module (A) is attached

to the receiver module (B) via a UHF

antenna module or a Void UHF antenna

module (C). 

Backpack-Mounted Rover

The GNSS antenna module (A) is attached to the receiver

module (B) via a UHF antenna module or Void UHF antenna

module (C), a range pole adapter (D), a dual RF cable (E)

and a Max-RF adapter (F).



(A)

(B)

(C)

(A)

(B)

(D)

(C)

(F)

(E)

(A)

(B)

GPS

UHF

English

2. Preparing For First-Time Use

Charging the Power Module

To charge the power module:

• Plug in your charger and connect the power module to

the charger as shown opposite.

•Charge for a minimum of five hours or preferably

overnight (even if the charger indicates that the battery is

full).

• Verify that the battery is fully charged by pressing the

button on the back side of the power module. The four

LEDs should light up green.

The power module contains rechargeable lithium-ion battery

cells and “smart” charging circuitry. Recharging the power

module is done using the AC/DC power supply, included

with the system.

This power supply can also be used to provide power

directly to the Z-Max.Net through an external connector.

The charger is designed to work with a 110-240 VAC power

source and delivers 12 V DC of input voltage with at least

4-A current capability to the power module.

For more information on the characteristics and manage-

ment of the power module, see Z-Max.Net Reference Man-

ual.

Use of non-Thales power

supplies for charging the

power module is not

recommended.

English

Attaching the Lateral Modules

Whatever the type of module you are

attaching to the receiver module, i.e. a

power module on the left, or a commu-

nication or V-module on the right, do

the following:

• Insert the small ledge of the module

into the rear of the housing first as

shown opposite (left and right).

This will correctly align the

module.

• Using the ledge like a hinge, start swinging the module.

To make sure the module is correctly positioned

vertically, take care to align the protruding edges, on

either side of the connector pins, with the grooves in the

receiver module casting. Then swing the module closed

until the latch on the module clicks into place.

• Make sure the module is well seated and the latch on the

edge of the module clicks shut.

Attaching the GNSS Antenna Module

The base of the GNSS antenna module is circular except for

a flattened area. The top of the receiver module, UHF

antenna module or Void UHF antenna module is keyed so

there is only one way the GNSS antenna module can be

inserted.

• Make sure the base of the GNSS antenna module is

oriented so that the flattened area is lined up with the

flattened area of the receptacle.

• Once aligned, insert the GNSS antenna module into the

antenna receptacle. The module should push easily into

place.

Please take all precau-

tions to keep connector

pins clean and avoid

touching them.

English

• Once in place, twist the threaded collar on the GNSS

antenna module until the antenna is securely locked in

place.

Inserting a Memory Card

A memory card is required if you want to run a post-process-

ing survey or more generally, when you want to log raw data

with your Z-Max.Net.

To install the SD Memory Card into the reader:

• Orient it so that the chamfered corner of the card is

oriented downwards, as shown opposite.

• Gently push the card into the reader until you feel a soft

“click”. The click indicates that the card is properly

seated. A correctly inserted SD card should not move

once you have removed your hand from the card.

Turning On/Off the System

• Power on the system by pressing the Power button on the

receiver front panel for about 2 seconds (until a beep is

emitted) and then releasing the Power button.

The SV/Power LED should begin to blink red once per

second to indicate that the receiver is powered up.

• To turn off the system, just press and hold the power key

for two seconds. The receiver will generate a beep every

second, a “shutdown” message will be displayed, and the

receiver will then power down.

Use exclusively SD

cards sold by Thales!

It is important to power

off the receiver using

the Power key on the

Front Panel before

removing the SD card.

English

Initializing the System

Initializing the system is recommended the first time you use

your system to:

• Clear the internal memory

• Reset the user settings to their default values

• Clear ephemeris and almanac information in memory

• Re-format the SD card. Note that initialization should

also be performed every time you prepare your SD card

for a new survey project. It’s always better to delete files

from the SD Card by running an initialization sequence

rather than using any other method.

Initializing the system is also appropriate any time the

Z-Max.Net does not work as expected.

To initialize the system from the Power button, assuming the

system is off, do the following:

• Press the Power button for at least 5 seconds.

The display will show “re-init”, indicating that the

receiver is in the initialization process.

The initialization process will take several minutes

depending on the size of the SD card. The front panel

will continue to display “re-init” until the process is com-

plete.

When complete, the receiver will be powered on and in

the normal state with the front panel displaying

“SYSINFO” and the SD card ready to use.

English

Checking that Z-Max.Net Receives

Satellites

If the GPS antenna has a reasonably good view to the sky,

within a few minutes, the receiver should begin to track sat-

ellites. This is indicated by the SV/Power LED:

1. It should blink red once per second to indicate that power

is on, and blink green several times between each red

blink.

2. It will blink green once for each satellite that is being

tracked. In normal conditions of reception, the system

should receive about eight satellites on average.

Please go outside after

initialization and make

sure your system has a

clear view of the sky in

all directions.

English

3. RTK Surveying

RTK Surveying Method Requirements

Key information is provided below.

1. Two units are needed: one (the base) is operated on an accurately known

position while the other (the rover) is used in the working area.

2. A data link must be established from the base to the rover. This data link

can be implemented in three different ways:

- UHF radio

- Cellular modem (GSM)

- Other external device

3. Depending on the chosen data link, the base will be either:

- A “real” base system (with UHF radio, GSM, or other external device)

- Or a “virtual” base system that delivers its data via a cellular modem

(GPRS).

The main Z-Max.Net RTK system configurations are illustrated below:

4. Two different rover setups can be used, backpack or range pole, yet

operated similarly. Only the pole-mounted rover system will be described

in this Guide. For more information on the backpack mounting, refer to the

Z-Max.Net Reference Manual.

5. RTK is easier to operate using a field terminal running FAST Survey. RTK

can also be operated from the receiver front panel display.

6. Whatever the base used (“real” or “virtual”), its distance to the rover, called

“baseline” (up to 50 km or 30 miles), must roughly be known to make sure

RTK results will achieve the expected level of accuracy.

When the base setup is

under your responsibil-

ity, make sure the base

is sited in a clear area

giving the best possible

view of the sky!

When this is possible,

avoid trees, buildings or

any high obstacles in the

vicinity of the base.

Having a clear view of

the sky will allow the

base to collect data from

a maximum of visible

satellites, which is highly

recommended to perform

a successful, accurate

and fast survey.

Base

UHF Radio

Rover

Data Link

Rover

Base Rover

GSM

GPRS

Data Link

Internet

English

RTK Base Setup

A typical base setup is described in this section in which:

• A conventional tripod is used

• A Thales U-Link radio is used for the data link

• RTK corrections data are transmitted in Ashtech CPD

(DBEN) format

• An external 12-V DC battery is used for powering both

the Z-Max.Net base and the U-Link transmitter

• A Bluetooth-enabled field terminal (MobileMapper CE)

is used, running the FAST Survey software, to set up the

base.

For other base configurations, it’s easy to extrapolate from

the instructions given below, knowing that configuring a

base always implies: 1) entering its geographical location

and 2) defining the data link.

Choosing the Installation Site

The installation site should offer the best possible GPS

reception conditions. The GNSS antenna should have a

clear view of the sky in all directions. There should be no,

or a minimum of satellite obstructions in the vicinity.

Setting Up the RTK Base

1. Connect the system components (power module, GNSS

antenna and V-module) as explained on page 9.

Because a UHF radio transmitter is used for the data link,

a V-module, and not a communication module, can be

attached to the right side of the receiver module.

2. Center and level the tripod over the ground mark.

English

3. Insert the brass tribrach adapter through the hole in the

HI measurement plate and screw the adapter/plate into

the 5/8” threaded receptacle in the bottom of the

Z-Max.Net receiver module.

4. Carefully place the Z-Max.Net assembly into the tribrach

mounted on the tripod over the point.

5. Use the tape to measure from the reference point on the

ground to the measurement point of the Z-Max.Net (see

Hb opposite). Later on, you will have to enter the value

read on the tape (see point 5. on page 25).

6. Using the power cable supplied (P/N

730477), connect the Z-Max.Net power

input (marked “PWR”) to the external

12-V DC battery.

7. Install the tripod for the UHF radio

transmitter a few meters away from the

Z-Max.Net tripod. The distance between

the two tripods is limited by the length (10

meters) of the data/power cable connecting the

Z-Max.Net receiver to the radio (see point 10 below).

8. Screw the radio antenna (A) to the antenna connector on

the U-Link radio (B).

9. Hook the flange on the radio into the mounting bracket

(C), and attach the mounting bracket to the telescoping

survey pole (D).

10. Connect the Y-shaped data/power cable (P/N 730476)

between 7-pin connector port B on the Z-Max.Net and

the 15-pin data/power port on the U-Link radio (E).

11. Connect the free end of the data/power cable to the

battery

12. Raise the UHF radio and its antenna together as high as

possible to maximize transmission distance.

“Hb” read

on tape

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D) (E)

English

The diagram below summarizes the different connections

described previously.

RTK Rover Setup

Two typical RTK rover setups are described:

•Rover Setup #1: RTK rover using a UHF radio data link

to communicate with an RTK base such as the one

described in the previous chapter.

•Rover Setup #2: RTK rover using a GSM/GPRS data

link to acquire corrections data from a provider using the

NTRIP protocol.

Use exclusively a 12-V

DC battery to power

the U-Link transmitter.

Using a 24-V DC bat-

tery is only allowed for

powering the

Z-Max.Net.

Power

U-Link Transmitter

External 12-V Battery

P/N 730476

P/N 430477

Z-Max.Net

English

The rover setup procedure is the following

1. Connect the system components (power module, GNSS

and UHF antenna modules, com module) as explained on

page 9, taking into account the following:

-Rover Setup #1: Because a UHF radio is used as the

data link, a UHF communication module, and not a

V-module, should be attached to the right side of the

receiver module. Connect the UHF antenna module

directly to the top of the receiver module and attach

the GNSS antenna module to the top of the UHF

antenna module.

-Rover Setup #2: Because a GSM/GPRS modem is

used as the data link, a GSM communication module,

and not a V-module, should be attached to the right

side of the receiver module. Because a UHF antenna

is not needed, connect a void UHF antenna module

directly to the top of the receiver module and attach

the GNSS antenna module to the top of the void UHF

antenna module.

2. Mount the Z-Max.Net assembly on the survey pole:

- Remove the brass adapter from the top of the pole

and attach it to the base of the Z-Max.Net assembly.

- Seat the Z-Max.Net onto the pole.

If no adapter is available, just thread the pole directly

on to the base of the receiver.

3. Determine the height of the range pole (see Hr opposite).

If you are using a standard pole, this height is given by

the pole manufacturer so you don’t need to measure it.

You will later have to remember this height when setting

the rover (see point 2. on page 28)

4. Mount the field terminal on its field bracket and then

secure the assembly onto the survey pole.

English

Establishing Bluetooth Communication

with Z-Max.Net

Introduction

This section explains how to control the Z-Max.Net system

from a Bluetooth-enabled field terminal (Thales

MobileMapper CE).

Please carefully read these preliminary notes:

• When using Bluetooth communication, you will be

asked repeatedly to enter the Z-Max.Net PIN number

while setting up the base or the rover. By default, the PIN

number for all Z-Max.Net units is “12345”.

To enter the PIN number using MobileMapper CE’s virtual keyboard,

follow the instructions below:

- To display the virtual keyboard, tap in the task bar and then

Keyboard. Don’t forget to tap inside the Enter PIN field before enter-

ing the PIN number.

- To hide the virtual keyboard, tap in the task bar and then Hide

Input Panel. If the task bar is hidden by the virtual keyboard, first tap

and hold the keyboard’s title bar and move it upward until the task

bar becomes visible, then select Hide Input Panel from the task bar.

• The “Tap and hold an item” instruction mentioned

several times in what follows means you have to:

- Tap on the item using the stylus

- And keep the stylus in contact with the screen until

dots and then a pop-up menu appears. Then you will

have to tap one of the functions in the prompted

menu.

Base

Rover

Field

Ter minal

Bluetooth

Manager

COM3

COM4

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Powering up the Whole Equipment

It is assumed that the base and rover you have set up are

next to each other.

1. First of all, turn on each of the Z-Max.Net units you will

be using (a base and a rover, or simply a rover) by

pressing the power button for about two seconds until a

beep is emitted.

2. Press the red Power button on the MobileMapper CE

until the Power LED lights up (green).

Detecting Bluetooth-Enabled Devices

In this step, you will run Bluetooth Manager to find the

Bluetooth-enabled devices within range of the field

terminal.

1. On the MobileMapper CE, tap in the task bar, then

Settings and then Control Panel.

2. Double-tap the Bluetooth Manager icon.

3. In the Bluetooth Manager window, tap on the ON button.

Wait until Bluetooth Manager has detected the

Z-Max.Net unit(s) you have just turned on. Bluetooth

Manager will also detect any Bluetooth-enabled devices

present in the vicinity such as cell phones, computers,

etc. (The larger the number of Bluetooth-enabled

devices, the longer the time to detect all of them.)

4. In the Authentication Request window that appears

following the detection of the Z-Max.Net units, tap

successively the PIN number for each unit (“12345” by

default, yours may be different) (see Introduction on

page 18 to do this).

5. Tap OK. Bluetooth Manager then updates the list of

Bluetooth-enabled devices to show the serial number of

the Z-Max.Net units (rather than obscure Bluetooth ID

numbers).

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Finding Bluetooth Services

In this step, you will list the services available from the

detected Bluetooth-enabled devices.

For each detected Z-Max.Net unit, do the following:

1. Tap and hold the now green Z-Max.Net icon in the list

and then tap Find Services from the pop-up menu. Wait

until a “+” sign appears before the icon.

2. Expand the Z-Max.Net icon by tapping on the “+” sign.

This unveils Bluetooth Serial Port that is currently red

crossed. (“Bluetooth Serial Port” is the only Bluetooth

service available from the Z-Max.Net units.)

Assigning Virtual Ports to Bluetooth

In this step, you will ask Bluetooth Manager to assign a vir-

tual port in the field terminal for each Bluetooth connection

you need.

For each detected Z-Max.Net unit, do the following:

1. Tap and hold Bluetooth Serial Port and then tap Configure.

This opens the Configure Serial Port window.

2. Select a free virtual port (COM3: for the base, COM4: for

the rover) and then tap OK to close the window.

3. Tap and hold Bluetooth Serial Port and then tap Connect.

Re-enter the PIN number if requested. Wait until the

Bluetooth Serial Port line appears with a green mark

meaning that the Bluetooth connection with the Z-

Max.Net is now established.

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Saving Bluetooth Serial Port Settings

You will save much time when next starting your system if

you follow the procedure below the first time you set up the

required Bluetooth connections.

For each detected Z-Max.Net unit, do the following:

1. Tap and hold Bluetooth Serial Port and then tap

successively Auto Connect and then Save Settings.

With these options activated, and provided you do not

turn off Bluetooth Manager before shutting down the

field terminal, Bluetooth Manager will automatically

restore the Bluetooth connections when you next turn on

your field terminal.

Obviously, Bluetooth Manager will only be able to

restore connections with the Z-Max units that are present

in the vicinity and powered up at that time.

You will then simply be asked to re-enter the PIN

number for each of these units.

Before moving on to FAST Survey, do the following:.

2. Tap OK in the upper-right corner to close the Bluetooth

Manager window. This does not turn off Bluetooth

Manager but simply frees the screen for other tasks.

3. For the same reason, close the Control Panel window.

Note the presence of the Bluetooth icon ( ) in the task

bar meaning that Bluetooth continues to be active.

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Defining/Saving Bluetooth Settings for FAST Survey

FAST Survey can communicate with only one Z-Max.Net

unit at a time. This step provides the procedure to let FAST

Survey communicate with the desired Z-Max.Net unit via

Bluetooth and save these settings in a configuration file so

these settings can quickly be restored whenever necessary.

1. Run FAST Survey on the field terminal

2. In FAST Survey, tap on the Equip tab and then on the

Comm Setup function.

3. In the Port Number field, select “COM3” (for

communicating with the base)

4. Check the This is a Bluetooth port option and then select

“Other” as the Bluetooth Driver

5. Tap OK to close the window. FAST Survey is now

communicating with the base through COM3. At this

stage, you can communicate with the base for

configuration or monitoring purposes.

6. Tap on top of the screen

7. Tap the Save button

8. Name the configuration file (for example “Z-Max Base”)

9. Tap OK and then Close

10.Repeat the above steps 2 to 9 for the Z-Max.Net rover

you are using. This time you will select “COM4” and not

“COM3” in the Comm Set up window (point 3.) and you

will enter “Z-Max Rover” as the name for the

configuration file (point 8.).

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Toggling Bluetooth Between Base and Rover

Now that you have saved the two ways FAST Survey can

communicate with your Z-Max.Net system, it’s easy to tog-

gle Bluetooth communication from the base to the rover or

the other way around:

1. Tap on top of the screen

2. Tap on the name of the configuration corresponding to

the unit you wish to communicate with and then tap

Select. As a result, FAST Survey automatically updates

the settings in the Comm Setup function to let you

communicate with the chosen unit.

Configuring the RTK Base

Launching FAST Survey

1. On the field terminal, launch the FAST Survey software

by double-tapping on the FAST Survey icon.

2. Choose Select New/Existing Job. A new screen is now

displayed.

3. In the Name field, type in the name of the job you wish to

create. For example, type in “Job1.crd”.

Note that FAST Survey has its own, large, virtual

keyboard (see opposite). If you tap inside the Name field,

FAST Survey will automatically display its virtual

keyboard. You just have to type in a name using this

keyboard and then tap OK.

4. Tap OK to create the job. The screen then displays the

Units tab.

5. On the Units tab, set the desired units and parameters for

the job.

New Job screen

FAST Survey virtual

keyboard

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6. Tap on the GPS tab.

7. On the GPS tab, choose the coordinate system to be used

in the job as well as the geoid model. Note that the

coordinate system and the geoid model may have been

uploaded earlier to the field terminal using one of the

GNSS Solutions tools (see GNSS Solutions Reference

Manual for more information). A large number of

coordinate systems are stored in FAST Survey. To select

one of them, tap on the Edit Projection List button and then

Add Predefined.

8. After selecting all the desired parameters, tap OK (located

on top of the screen).

Configuring the Base and the Data Link

Reminder: In this example, you will be configuring a UHF

data link to provide the rover with RTK corrections data in

CPD (DBEN) format.

1. Tap on the Equip tab, then the Instrument function, select

“Thales/Ashtech” from the scroll-down menu and finally

tap OK.

2. Tap on top of the screen

3. Tap on the name of the configuration corresponding to

the base (e.g. “Z-Max Base”) and then tap Select. As a

result, FAST Survey automatically updates the settings in

the Comm Setup function to let you communicate with the

base.

Alternately, you can tap on the Comm Setup button on the

Equip tab and then, in the Port Number field, select the port

you assigned to communicate with the base (see point 2.

in Assigning Virtual Ports to Bluetooth on page 20).

Also, enable “This is a Bluetooth port” and select

“Other” as the Bluetooth Driver. Then tap OK

4. Tap on the Configure Base button and then choose

“Z-Max” from the Receiver Type scroll-down menu.

GPS tab screen

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5. Enter the antenna height you measured previously (see

point 5. page 15) as well as the method you used for this

measurement. If you used the method described on

page 15, check Slant.

6. Select the type of GPS antenna used, i.e. “[Z-Max GPS]

Thales Navigation” as you are using the Z-Max.Net

antenna directly connected to the receiver.

7. Tap on the Ports tab. With Bluetooth and the Thales radio

used, make the following choices:

• Type: “THL” (Thales Radio)

• Data Port: “C” (Bluetooth connection to field

terminal)

• Radio Port: “B”

• Message Type: “Ashtech CPD”.

8. Tap OK to send these parameters to the Z-Max.Net

receiver. Re-enter the PIN number. The Z-Max.Net emits

a beep. A new menu appears asking you to enter the

initialization position for the base.

Entering the Base Position and ID

Up to six different options are possible to enter this

position:

English

9. Choose the option that suits you best. For example, to

enter the coordinates of the base:

- Tap successively on From New Position, then Enter Lat/

Lon

- Type in the latitude, longitude and altitude and then

tap OK. FAST Survey then displays the WGS84 coor-

dinates of this position after making the transforma-

tion to WGS84 if necessary.

-Tap

Yes.

10.FAST Survey then asks you to enter the Reference Station

ID (4 characters max.).

11. Enter the ID you would like to assign to the base and

then tap OK. The message “Connecting to Receiver” is

displayed and a beep is emitted meaning that the

Z-Max.Net is being configured. After a few seconds,

FAST Survey prompts you to check the radio settings:

Setting the Radio

12.Tap Yes. In the US, a channel/frequency table will be

shown. In Europe, a single channel will be displayed

along with the corresponding frequency.

13.For example, if the frequency must be set to

444.125 MHz (it’s always a multiple of 12.5 kHz), type

in “444.125” in the Frequency to Set field and then tap Set

Radio.

14.Wait until FAST Survey displays the “Base Configuration

Successful” message and the Z-Max.Net emits a beep.

Base coordinates screen

Base Station ID screen

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15. Check the LEDs on the Z-Max.Net front panel to make

sure the system is functioning correctly (refer to page 4

to read the meaning of each LED). Typically, two LEDS

should blink green as shown opposite.

You can also monitor the Z-Max.Net rover from the

MobileMapper CE screen using FAST Survey’s Equip

tab>Monitor Skyplot function (see figure below).

Tap Back to return to the menu.

16. You can now let the base operate on its own and move on

to the rover configuration. Keep the field terminal on.

Also, keep FAST Survey running and leave the job open

as this is needed to configure the rover (see hereafter).

Configuring the RTK Rover

1. Tap on top of the screen

2. Tap on the name of the configuration corresponding to

the rover (e.g. “Z-Max Rover”) and then tap Select. As a

result, FAST Survey automatically updates the settings in

the Comm Setup function to let you communicate with

the rover.

Current position

Computation

uncertainties

Number of

received satellites

GPS constellation

geometry

English

Alternately, you can tap on the Comm Setup button on the

Equip tab and then, in the Port Number field, select the port

you assigned to communicate with the rover (see point 2.

in Assigning Virtual Ports to Bluetooth on page 20).

Also, enable “This is a Bluetooth port” and select

“Other” as the Bluetooth Driver. Then tap OK.

Case #1: Rover Using a UHF Radio Data Link

1. Tap on Configure Rover

2. In the Rod Hgt field, type in the height mentioned earlier

(Hr; see point 3. on page 17) and then check the Vertical

option.

3. Tap on the Receiver tab and check that the receiver used is

“Z-Max”. Also, as you are using a UHF antenna module

-although a void one- between the GNSS antenna and the

receiver module, select the “[Z-Max GPS UHF] Thales

Navigation” antenna in the Antenna Type field.

4. Tap on the Ports tab and make the following choices:

-Base Config field (at the bottom): “Manual”

- Type: “THL” (Thales radio)

- Data Port: “C” (Bluetooth connection to field

terminal)

- Radio Port: “D”

- Message Type: “Ashtech (CPD/DSNP LRK)”

5. Tap the OK button located on top of the screen. The

message “Connecting to Receiver” is displayed and the

Z-Max.Net emits a beep meaning that it’s being

configured.

English

6. After a few seconds, another message is displayed

prompting you to check the radio settings:

7. Tap Yes. In the US, a channel/frequency table will be

shown. In Europe, a single channel will be displayed

along with the corresponding frequency.

8. For example, if the frequency must be set to

444.125 MHz (it’s always a multiple of 12.5 kHz), type

in “444.125” in the Frequency to Set field and then tap Set

Radio.

9. Wait a few seconds. A beep is emitted by the Z-Max.Net

once it has been configured as a rover.

The survey can now begin.

You can first check the LEDs on the Z-Max.Net front

panel to make sure the system is functioning correctly

(refer to page 4 to know the meaning of each LED).

You can also monitor the Z-Max.Net rover from the field

terminal screen using FAST Survey’s Equip tab>Monitor

Skyplot function.

English

Case #2: Rover Using a GSM/GPRS Data Link

Reminder: You do not need to install and run your own

base as in this case you will be using RTK corrections data

from a provider using the NTRIP protocol. This means you

just have to set up and use your rover. Below is the key

information you need to know in this case of use:

• A GPRS data link is used to receive RTK corrections

data from an NTRIP caster. The GPRS provider is

assumed to have delivered the following information so

you can start your modem:

• The NTRIP service provider is assumed to have

delivered the following information so you can access

the NTRIP service:

Follow the instructions below to set up the rover:

1. Tap on Configure Rover

2. In the Rod Hgt field, type in the height mentioned earlier

(Hr; see point 3. on page 17) and then check the Vertical

option.

3. Tap on the Receiver tab and check that the receiver used is

the Z-Max.Net. Also, select the “[Z-Max GPS UHF]

Thales Navigation” antenna in the Antenna Type field.

4. Tap on the Ports tab and make the following choices:

-Base Config field (at the bottom): “Manual”

Modem SIM PIN number (if any)

Access Point Name

Password for GPRS connection

Caster IP address (xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx)

IP port number

Password for access to NTRIP caster

English

- Type: “NTRIP”

- Data Port: “C”

5. Tap the Add button located at the bottom of the screen.

6. Enter the properties of the GPRS provider. The screen

opposite only gives examples of what these properties

might be.

By appropriately naming this set of information (Name

field on top), you will be able to directly select this

configuration from the Base Config field on the previous

screen.

7. Tap the NTRIP Settings button and enter the properties of

the NTRIP service you want to use. The screen opposite

only gives examples of what these properties might be.

8. Tap OK three times.

9. The message “Connecting to Receiver” is displayed and a

beep is then emitted indicating that the Z-Max.Net is

being configured.

A new screen appears on which you can see the current

status of the com module’s modem (READY; see screen

opposite).

10. Tap Connect. The Connecting to Caster message is

displayed. Then a new screen appears from which you

can see all the stations available from your NTRIP

provider

11. From the drop-down list associated with the Mount Point

field, select the base station you would like to work with.

The rest of the screen provides information on the

selected station. The Format field is automatically preset

following the selection of a station but you can still

change it if the pre-setting is incorrect (see screen

opposite).

English

12.Tap OK. After a while, The GSM STATUS switches to

ONLINE (see screen opposite) and the Z-Max.Net

should start receiving corrections data. After a few

seconds the RTK Solution LED (far left) should blink

green meaning that the RTK position solution is fixed

and so you can start surveying.

13.Tap Close and proceed with the survey as such (see next

chapters).

You can monitor the Z-Max.Net rover from the field

terminal screen using FAST Survey’s Equip tab>Monitor

Skyplot function.

Saving Base and Rover Settings

When you configure your base or rover from FAST Survey,

a Save operation is automatically performed at the end of

the procedure and so you don’t need to save anything manu-

ally.

After a power cycle, your base or rover will therefore con-

tinue to operate according to the last loaded configuration.

Running an RTK Survey

If you have followed all the instructions provided in this

RTK Surveying chapter, your rover is now fully configured

and so you can start your survey using your field-terminal-

controlled rover.

NOTE: To start the survey with the correct antenna height

when using FAST Survey, the rover should always have

been set up last.

The present section describes the main types of surveys you

can perform with FAST Survey and your Z-Max.Net,

namely:

- RTK point logging (Stop & Go survey)

- RTK point logging in continuous mode (trajectory sur-

vey)

- RTK staking out.

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Logging RTK Points

1. Tap on the Surv tab and then on Store Points. The screen

now displayed allows you to log all your points.

The figure below summarizes all the functions available

from that screen.

For example, you are on a point that you want to log. Do

the following:

2. Type in the point name and description in the

corresponding two fields (see above)

3. Tap on the “A” button

4. Enter the number of readings you want before FAST

Survey is allowed to compute an average position for this

point. For example, type in “5” and tap OK.

Messages follow successively indicating that the system

is taking the 5 requested readings. Then FAST Survey

displays the average coordinates it has determined.

5. Tap OK if you agree. The “Point Stored” message appears

briefly. The screen then shows the location of the point

together with its name and description.

Logging point

with offset

GPS antenna height

Current position and related

quality figures

Enter the point name and

description in these two fields Graphic Display area

Your current position

and heading

Logging point

(general case)

Provides access to

monitor screen

Viewing parameters

Zoom settings

Logging point with

position averaging Configures general

case of point logging

Current status of

position solution

English

6. After logging all your points, tap MENU in the upper-

right corner of the screen to return to the menu.

Logging RTK Points in Continuous Mode

1. On the Surv tab, select the Auto by Interval function. Two

different modes are possible: Time or Distance.

2. If you choose Distance, enter the horizontal and vertical

increment value respectively in the X/Y and Z fields,

according to the chosen unit. If you choose Time, enter

the increment value, in seconds.

3. Enter a point Id. for the start point in the Starting Pt ID

field. This field will be incremented by one after each

point logging. You do not need to define a name

finishing with a figure. FAST Survey will place one

anyway when incrementing this field.

4. Press OK to switch to the graphic screen (see figure

below) and start logging the first point.

The S button lets you instantly log the position of a point.

The X button allows you to pause data logging in

continuous mode.

If data logging in continuous mode is paused, you can

still continue to log points in manual mode using the S

button.

Used to pause/resume

data logging

Point Id.

incremented

automatically

Used to log a point’s

position manually

English

Tap the X button again (changed into a right arrow during

pause) to resume data logging in continuous mode.

If you come back to the main menu by tapping on

MENU, then data logging in continuous mode is

automatically stopped.

Staking out RTK Points

1. Tap on the Surv tab and then select Stakeout Points. The

screen now displayed allows you to stake out your

points.

2. On this screen, FAST Survey asks you to choose the

point you want to stake out. You can either type in its

coordinates in the Northing, Easting and Elevation fields, or

select a pre-defined point from the points list (see

File>List Points). You can also, define graphically this

point by tapping on the point on the graphic screen, or

define that point according to azimuth, slope and

horizontal distance.

Coordinates of point

to be staked out

Name of point to

be staked out Provides access to

graphic screen

Provides access to points list.

Example of points list:

English

3. Once you have chosen a point, tapping on the OK button

will display a graphic screen from which you can easily

stake out your point:

The target radius is automatically changed as the

distance from you to the point changes.

When getting closer to the point, markers appear at the

four corners of the target (see below left) informing you

that you have arrived at the target. You can now

materialize and log the position of this point.

4. Tapping on the STORE button allows you to start

performing measurements to determine the target

position.

Your current position and

heading

Provides access to

monitor screen

Takes you back to the point

selection screen

Point to be staked out (target)

Provides access to the detailed

stakeout screen below

Stakeout screen

Detailed stakeout screen

Next point

Logs the point

Your current position

and heading

Point to be staked out

Used to select which guidance

data to display

Used to select which data to

display for the point:

coordinates or quality data

Configures general

case of point logging

English

The number of measurements will depend on the value

entered earlier through the File tab>Configure Readings

function. Once the position has been determined, FAST

Survey displays the results of the computation so that

you can check them (see below right).

5. Tap OK if you are satisfied with the results. FAST Survey

will then save these results and will take you back to the

stakeout screen for the next point.

Downloading RTK Results to GNSS Solu-

tions

Back at the office, do the following to download and view

the RTK results stored in the job you have just finished.

1. Prepare your field terminal for data downloading. With

MobileMapper CE, do the following:

- Clip the I/O module at the back of the unit.

- Connect the MobileMapper CE’s I/O module to the

PC using the USB cable provided.

2. Switch on the field terminal and then launch FAST

Survey

3. Select File>6. Data Transfer>Carlson SurvCadd/Carlson Survey.

English

4. On the PC:

- Launch GNSS Solutions and then click Create a new

Project

- Name the project and click OK

- Select the spatial reference system that was used

during your RTK survey, select the appropriate time

zone and then click OK

- Click Do Not Import Anything Now. A new empty project

opens in GNSS Solutions.

- Select Tools>Preferences and make sure Show RTK

functions is enabled otherwise check it and then click

- From the menu bar, select Project>Download Positions

from External Device

- In the dialog that opens, select RTK Results in the left

pane and then FAST Survey data collector in the right

pane

- Click OK. This opens the Data Transfer dialog box.

- To be able to configure the connection to the

MobileMapper CE the first time you download RTK

results, clear the Automatic transfer option and then

click OK. Two error messages may appear in the next

step. Just click OK when this happens. The SurvCom

window then appears on the screen.

- In the SurvCom window, click on the Options button

and then select the ActiveSync option in the upper-

right combo box (this option is last in the list)

- Click OK

- Select the “Data” folder on the MobileMapper CE

and click Exit

- In the new dialog that appears, you can now see the

list of jobs stored in the MobileMapper CE

- Click on the job you want to download. The name of

the selected job appears in the upper field.

-In the Directory field, choose the folder on your PC

where you would like to store this job

- Click OK. RTK results are now downloaded to the

project open in GNSS Solutions. At the end of the

transfer, these results can be seen on the project’s

Survey view.

NOTE: When next

downloading RTK

results, the connection to

the field terminal does

not need to be re-

configured. This means

you can skip this step by

checking the Automatic

Transfer option in the

Data Transfer dialog box.

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4. Post-processing Surveying

This chapter only discusses the static mode of surveying.

For more information on Continuous (Trajectory) or

Stop&Go kinematic methods, please refer to the Z-Max.Net

Reference Manual.

Reminder on the Static Surveying Method

Typical Use: Surveying a New Control Point.

Key Instructions:

1. Two units needed: one (the base) operated on an accurately known

position and the other (the rover) on the point to be surveyed. There

can be several rovers logging data at the same time.

2. Approximate distance between the two units (baseline) must be

known.

3. Data must be collected simultaneously by the two units. Use the

same logging interval on both units.

4. Observation time is determined by last unit set up (start) and first unit

turned off (end). We recommend that you start the base first and you

turn it off last.

5. Required observation time mainly depends on distance between the

two units (+ reception conditions). Rover unit estimates observation

time needed.

When Estimated Base Line Len on the Z-Max.Net front panel

decreases down to “000km”, you can stop collecting data.

Make sure the base is

sited in a clear area giv-

ing the best possible

view of the sky!

When this is possible,

avoid trees, buildings or

any high obstacles in the

vicinity of the base.

Having a clear view of

the sky will allow the

base to collect data from

a maximum of visible

satellites, which is highly

recommended to perform

a successful, accurate

and fast survey.

Data collected on surveyed point:

Base

Baseline

(Range)

Observation time

Data collected at base:

Time Organization

Equipment Involved -

Field Organization

Known Point Survey Point

Rover

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Running a Static Survey

A typical survey is described in this chapter using a conven-

tional tripod. No field terminal is used as controlling system

operation from the Z-Max.Net front panel is quite easy in

this case.

Equipment Setup

The equipment setup instructions are the same for both the

base and the rover. Install and run the base first.

In both cases, the installation site should offer the best pos-

sible GPS reception conditions. The antenna should have a

clear view of the sky in all directions. There should be no,

or a minimum of satellite obstructions in the vicinity.

1. Make sure the chosen point is suitable for GNSS obser-

vations.

2. Connect the system components as explained on page 9.

For postprocessing surveys, a V-module, and not a com-

munication module, should be attached to the right side

of the receiver module.

3. A memory card is required to log raw data. Insert this

card as explained on page 10. Formatting a memory card

for the Z-Max.Net requires that you re-initialize the

Z-Max.Net with the SD card inserted (see page 11).

4. Position the tripod over the chosen point

5. Insert the brass tribrach adapter through the hole in the

HI measurement plate and screw the adapter/plate into

the 5/8” threaded receptacle in the bottom of the

Z-Max.Net receiver module.

English

6. Once the tripod is accurately centered and leveled over

the point, and the tribrach adapter and HI measurement

plate are attached to the receiver module, carefully place

the assembly into the tribrach mounted on the tripod over

the point.

7. Use the tape measure to measure from the center of the

point to the measurement point of the Z-Max.Net (see

Hb opposite). Later on, you will have to enter the value

read on the tape (see point 4. on page 42).

Getting the Z-Max.Net Unit Started in Static

1. Press the Power button on the receiver module front

panel for 2 seconds until a beep is emitted.

2. Configure the system to perform a static survey: By

default, the Z-Max.Net system is configured to perform a

static survey. When turned on and once enough satellites

are received above 10 degrees of elevation, the receiver

automatically begins to collect and store data in a new

data file with a data recording interval of 10 seconds.

In the event the Z-Max.Net would not be configured to

run in static, do the following to re-configure the

Z-Max.Net:

• Press the Down key until SURVCONF is displayed

• Press the Enter key

• Press the Down key and then the Enter key again

• Press the Down key until STATIC is displayed

• Press ENTER The screen now displays MODE:STATIC.

(The front panel interface is thoroughly described in the

Z-Max.Net Reference Manual. See also page 48 in this

guide.)

“Hb” read

on tape

Down key

Enter key

Cancel key

Up key

English

3. Enter the Site ID:

• Press the Cancel key to return to SURVCONF

• Press the Down key until the screen displays

SURVEY:STATIC

• Press the Enter key. SITE ID:??? is displayed. You can

now enter the site ID:

• Press the Enter key again

• Enter the first of the four characters making up the

Site ID pressing the Up or Down arrow until the

desired character is displayed, then press Enter. Set

the second character using the same Up or Down key,

etc.

• After defining the last character, press the Enter key

to validate the site ID. The screen displays the

entered site ID (e.g. “SITE ID:0005”)

4. Enter the Hb height measured earlier with the tape (see

point 7. on page 41):

• Press the Up key. The screen displays ANT HT:..

• Press the Enter key

• Enter the first character of the antenna height meas-

ured previously using the Up or Down key, then press

Enter. Set the second character using the same Up or

Down key, etc.

• After defining the last character, press the Enter key

to validate the HI. The screen displays the entered HI

(e.g. “ANT HT:01.5703m”)

5. Set the recording interval:

• Press the Cancel key to return to SURVEY:STATIC

• Press the Up key until SURVCONF is displayed

• Press the Enter key. You can now enter the recording

interval:

Down key

Enter key

Cancel key

Up key

English

• Press the Enter key

• Enter the first character of the recording interval

using the Up or Down key, then press Enter. Set the

second character using the same Up or Down key,

etc.

• After defining the last character, press the Enter key

to validate the recording interval. The screen displays

the entered interval (e.g. “REC INT:20.0s”)

6. For the static “rover” only, enter the approximate length

of the baseline:

• Return to the SURVEY:STATIC root menu, press Enter,

press the Up key twice and then enter this length

(ESTIMATED BASELINE LEN:xxxkm). This parameter is

very important as it will be used by the Z-Max.Net to

help you determine the end of data collection.

Starting Data Collection

1. Start raw data logging as follows:

• Return to the root menu and then press the Down key

until SESSIONS is displayed

•Press Enter. START SESSION is now displayed.

• Press Enter again. Start Session? is now displayed.

• Press Enter again. DONE is displayed for a few sec-

onds. Data logging is now in progress as indicated on

the Data Log LED which should blink green once at

the frequency of the data recording interval.

End of Data Collection

1. Return to the SURVEY:STATIC root menu, press Enter,

press the Up key twice. The screen should now display

the ESTIMATED BASE LINE LEN parameter.

English

2. Let the Z-Max.Net rover collect data until this parameter

goes down to “000 km”. A message is then displayed

informing you that you can stop data collection. But

always use your own judgement to decide the moment

when to stop data collection.

Remember the amount of data required is dependent on a

number of factors including:

- The quality of the satellite geometry (PDOP),

- The number of satellites above the elevation mask,

- Any obstructions between the satellites and the GPS

antenna

- The distance (or vector length) between the receivers

collecting data simultaneously.

3. To end data collection, just turn off the Z-Max.Net sys-

tem by pressing the Power button for 2 seconds. When

the receiver is powered down the active measurement

file is automatically closed.

When the receiver is powered back up a new measure-

ment file will be automatically created.

After data collection is complete, take all Z-Max.Net

systems used in the survey to the office and download

the data to an office computer as described in Download-

ing Field Data to your PC on page 45. The data is now

ready for post-processing using GNSS Solutions.

English

Downloading Field Data to your PC

The easiest and fastest way to download your field data is to

use the card reader attached to the office PC. This procedure

is described in the present section. It is assumed that GNSS

Solutions has already been installed on your PC.

If you don’t have a card reader, you can download your

field data directly from the Z-Max.Net via a USB or RS 232

link. This procedure is described in the Z-Max.Net Refer-

ence manual. Please refer to this manual for more informa-

tion.

Back in your office, do the following to download your

field data.

1. On the Z-Max.Net:

- Remove the SD card from the Z-Max.Net

- Insert the SD Card in your local SD card reader.

2. On the PC:

- From the Windows task bar, select Start>Pro-

grams>GNSS Solutions>Tools>Download.

(Double-click in the right side of the window if

you want to change to the parent directory and open

another folder on your PC.)

- In the Download window, click on the drive combo

box (see below) in the left-hand pane and select the

letter corresponding to the local SD card reader

(example: SD card reader is “F:”).

After downloading your

field data, do not forget to

re-insert the SD card into

the Z-Max.Net before tak-

ing it back to the field!

English

The left side of the Download window then lists the

files present on the SD card.

- Select the files you want to download. If necessary,

hold down the Ctrl key to make a multiple selection.

-Press the F5 key. A Copying file dialog appears during

data transfer.

After the transfer is complete, notice in the right side

of the Download window that each downloaded file

has been split into different files named with a prefix

as explained opposite.

- Close the Download window.

3. Repeat the previous two steps for each of the Z-Max.Net

units involved in the project to download their respective

files to the same project folder on your office computer.

Post-Processing Field Data

1. On your office computer, launch GNSS Solutions

2. Click Create a New Project, enter a project name and then

click OK.

3. Click Import Raw Data from Files.

4. Browse your computer to change to the folder containing

the data files you have just downloaded.

5. Select the files you want to import and click Open.

Files resulting from the

downloading of an

observation file are

named as follows:

X<Downloadedfilename>

where prefix X = “E” for

Ephemeris Data, “B” for

Position Data, “D” for

GPS Raw Data and “W”

for SBAS Data.

English

The Importing GPS Data dialog lists the files you want to

import (top). Each row describes one of these files (file-

name, associated Site ID, etc.)

6. At the bottom of the window, define which of the sites is

the control point (base) and enter or check its known

coordinates. You can also fix the control point if neces-

sary by selecting one of the options available in the Fixed

column. If you select <Blank>, the point won’t be fixed.

7. Click OK>To Import to import the data into the project.

Depending on the type of survey, you can go even faster

by running, in one operation, the Import, Process and

Adjust functions.

For more information on GNSS Solutions, please refer to

the GNSS Solutions Reference Manual.

English

5. Front Panel Interface Function

Diagram

SYSINFO SURVEY:

Current Mode SURVCONF SESSIONS SETTINGS COM

OPTN

RCVR

VERSION

RCVR

S/N

OPTIONS

BAT

MEM RTK ROVER

STATIC

 SITE

 ANT HT

 BASELINE

 STATUS

RTK BASE

 SITE

 ANT HT

 ANT RAD

 BASE POS

 STATUS

KINEMATIC

 SITE

 ANT HT

 STATUS

RTK ROVER

STATIC

RTK BASE

 PORT/TYPE

 REC INT

 ELEV MASK

 Select SURVEY MODE

 REC INT

 ELEV MASK

 SBAS

 Select SURVEY MODE

KINEMATIC

 EPOCH CNTR

 MIN SV

 REC INT

 ELEV MASK

 Select SURVEY MODE

STOP

SESSION

START

SESSION

LIST

SESSION

NEW

SESSION

DELETE

ALL

MEMORY

RESET

RESET TO

FACTORY

DEFAULTS

BAUD

RATE

LANGUAGE

BEEP

SAVE

THALES

RADIO

PDL

GSM

ROVER

GSM

BASE

Symbology:

Thin arrow - Enter or Cancel Key

Thick Arrow - Up or Down Key

See Reference Manual

English

Index

Access Point Name 30

Auto connect (Bluetooth) 21

Backpack 2, 13

Baseline 13, 39

Baseline length 43

Bluetooth 18

Bluetooth icon 21

Bluetooth port 4

Caster IP address 30

Cellular modem 13

Charger 2, 8

Charging the power module 8

Collar (threaded) 10

Communication LED 4

Communication module 2

Control keys 5

Coordinate system 24

Data collection 43

Data link 13, 24

Data Log LED 4

DBEN 14, 24

Detecting Bluetooth devices 19

Display mode 5

Downloading field data 45

Edit mode 5

Entering base position 25

Entering height 15, 17, 25, 28, 42

Estimated baseline length 43

External power 15

External Power In 6

FAST Survey 13

FAST Survey CD 2

Field bracket 1

Finding Bluetooth services 20

Flattened area 9

Formatting, re-formatting SD card 11

Front panel display 5

Front panel interface 41

Geoid model 24

GNSS antenna module 2, 7

GNSS Solutions CD 2

GNSS Solutions software 45

GPRS 13, 30

GPS receiver module 2, 3

GPS-RF cable 2

Handle 6

HI measurement plate 2, 15, 40

HI measurement tool 2

Initializing 11

Inserting modules 9

IP port number 30

Job 23

Juniper Allegro CX 2

Latch 9

Logging interval 39

Max RF adapter 2

Modem SIM PIN number 30

Monitor skyplot 27, 29

Mounting bracket 2

NTRIP 30

Observation time 39

Ordering information 1

Other external device 13

Pacific-Crest UHF Transmitter 2

Password for access to NTRIP caster 30

Password for GPRS connection 30

PIN number 18, 19

Port A 6

Port B 6

Post-processing field data 46

Power key 6

Power Module 2

English

Range pole 2

Range pole RF adapter 2

Range-Pole 13

RTCM 3.0 31

RTK Solution LED 4

Satellite/Power LED 4

Saving Bluetooth connections for FAST

Survey 22

Saving Bluetooth settings 21

SD Card 2, 10

SD card reader 6

Serial data cable 2

Site ID 42

Soft case 2

Stake out 35

Static 41

Status LEDs 4

Stop & Go 39

Tap and hold 18

Thales MobileMapper CE 2

Thales U-Link transmitter 2

Toggling from base to rover 23

Trajectory 39

Turning On/Off 10

UHF antenna module 2

UHF radio 13

UHF-RF cable 2

U-Link 14

Units 23

USB cable 2

USB port 6

Virtual (ports) 20

V-module 2, 3

Thales

Survey Solutions Contact Information

In USA +1 408 615 3970 • Fax +1 408 615 5200

Toll Free (Sales in USA/Canada) 1 800 922 2401

In South America +56 2 273 32 14 • Fax +56 2 273 31 87

Email surveysales@thalesnavigation.com

In Singapore +65 6235 3678 • Fax +65 6235 4869

In China +86 10 6566 9866 • Fax +86 10 6566 0246

Email surveysalesapac@thalesnavigation.com

In France +33 2 28 09 38 00 • Fax +33 2 28 09 39 39

In Germany +49 81 6564 7930 • Fax +49 81 6564 7950

In Russia +7 095 956 5400 • Fax +7 095 956 5360

In the Netherlands +31 78 61 57 988 • Fax +31 78 61 52 027

Email surveysalesemea@thalesnavigation.com

Web site www.thalesgroup.com/navigation

ZMAX®.NET

GETTING STARTED GUIDE

TRIMBLE EUROPE 111256 Zmax Communication Unit User Manual Z Max Net Getting Started Guide

TRIMBLE NANTES S.A.S. Zmax Communication Unit Z Max Net Getting Started Guide

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