Leica Geosystems released the next generation of its Leica SP technology. SP Technology now also supports machine control with total stations, providing high precision and increased grading speed in environments where GPS is not useable. This additional functionality allows users to choose the positioning sensor for their machine control system and to achieve enhanced results in any environment. Using an inertial system SP technology enhances grading performance, resulting in higher productivity even on challenging job sites, according to the manufacturer.

Achieving Faster Results

SP technology provides improved hydraulic control that allows faster grading with increased smoothness and precision at high speeds, increasing machine utilization and productivity. Bulldozers can now take on even more fine grading jobs, completing work with less heavy equipment on site and helping contractors to finish their projects ahead of schedule and under budget.

By using inertial guidance with highly responsive hydraulic control, grading performance is enhanced. Leica SP technology compensates for various weaknesses that GPS and total stations have in normal machine control applications. Thus operators can achieve consistent and precise results even under the most difficult conditions. Machines equipped with SP technology reduce the need for rework and increase machine uptime during poor satellite (GPS/GLONASS) coverage, temporary loss of correction signals, or interrupted prism tracking when working with a total station, according to the manufacturer.

Total Precision in Any Environment

The next generation Leica SP Technology adds flexibility to speed and precision. Working with GPS or total station SP technology allows fast and precise grading even on challenging job sites. If GPS is not usable, e.g. when working in urban canyons, deep cuts, forested or mountainous areas, or in tunnels, the operator can swap the GPS sensors with a total station and can keep working with its 3D machine control system enjoying the same SP performance and speeds as with GPS.

Increased Value of Existing Hardware

SP Technology is an available upgrade or option to the Leica PowerGrade platform. Along with the PowerSnap concept, which allows easy and quick exchange of machine control panels, customers have flexibility and speed.

All dozers equipped with a Leica PowerGrade 3D system controlled by GPS or total station can be easily updated to get the full benefit of the SP Technology. A simple sensor swap, upgrade of software and recalibration of the machine is all that is required.

For more information, visit http://www.leica-geosystems.com/sp.

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