Topcon Provides Machine Control Precision On A Budget

March 2014 – Topcon, the global leader in 2D and 3D grade indicate system development and technology, has announced a new low-cost solution – the X-33 GNSS excavator system.

The cost-effectiveness of Topcon’s X-33 system lies in its versatility. Thanks to the GX-30 control box at its heart, the system is fully upgradable, meaning businesses can progress from 2D to 3D or 3D indicate systems on a variety of machines across one work site. Installing sensors, cables and brackets on multiple machines means the control box, GNSS receiver and antennas can be moved between them, depending on what tasks are required.

“Topcon’s X-33 ensures a fast, accurate cut grade and completely eliminates over-excavation,” says Mike Milne, Managing Director of New Zealand Topcon importer and consultancy firm, Synergy Positioning Systems.

“The system allows the operator to cut to flat, vertical and 3D surfaces and the X-33’s clear and intuitive touchscreen display in the cab ensures all the information is right there at the operator’s fingertips. We’re excited to be able to offer such world-leading machine control technology at such a cost-effective price.”

The X-33 consists of two GNSS antennas, four TS-i3 tilt sensors, an MC-i3 GNSS receiver and the in-cab GX-30 control box with its touchscreen display panel.

The display panel allows the operator to check both overall machine position and bucket position at any time. The operator can also drill down for more information on any scenario, toggling through visualisations of plan, profile or sectional views. What’s more the system’s dual grade indicators assist with elevation control.

The X-33 allows for the creation of multiple, complex elevation and slope designs to be cut continuously without the need for the operator to continually reset the machine or laser, or wait for surveyor elevation pegs to be placed or re-placed.

Further detail regarding the Topcon X-33 GNSS excavator system is available at www.synergypositioning.co.nz.