Cool Tool of the Day: Topcon Ultra-Compact Field Controllers

Although many minds out there are already set to weekend time, The Machine Works crew wanted to pass along two cool, new products from Topcon Positioning Systems (TPS).

Today, the company announced the release of its FC-25 series of pocket-sized, rugged field controllers. Both the FC-25 and the FC-25A utilize Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system, which comes with 256MB RAM and 2GB of flash memory.

The main features of the new systems also include:
• Lightweight design (11.3 oz.)
• Fast 533MHz processor
• 640×480 VGA 3.5-in. TFT touch screen
• 5-key keyboard
• Integrated wireless LAN and Bluetooth connectivity
• SDHC card slot and USB port
• Replaceable Li-ion battery
• Dustproof / waterproof (IP65 rating)
• Drop-proof from 5 ft
• Built-in 20-channel L1 GPS receiver
• TopSURV software

Additionally, the FC-25A includes a built-in 3MP camera, compass and altimeter.

Mark Contino, vice president of TPS product marketing, said, “The FC-25 series is the perfect field controller; it’s small, fast, accurate and is rugged enough to be used on any jobsite.

“With built-in sensors for GIS applications (20-channel GPS receiver), the units provide positional information by point positioning or DGPS using SBAS corrections.”

Both new units “are designed for optimum efficiency and productive in various work sites, including GIS and construction projects,” Contino said. “The new controllers have Bluetooth connectivity, and with a battery life of almost eight hours, it is a true workhorse for any job on any applicable project.”

Contino said, “The FC-25A’s 3MP auto focus camera, electronic compass and altimeter is especially designed to collect data on any jobsite, but is extremely helpful on GIS projects.”