These Patches Contain

Version 8.0p: Friday, January 27, 2009

SMI Field Survey Solutions Version 8.0p

One of the strengths of SMI products has been to help you perform your work with the fewest keystrokes possible. SMI continues to build on this strength with release 8 of SMI. The Version 8 SMI release centers the bulk of the functionality within the Classic SMI interface environment, which is very similar to the super efficient RPL interface with which so many of you are already familiar. Additionally, you can easily create your own command shortcuts using the function keys / command keys on your data collector or by using the Command Favorites menu. Command Favorites is a customizable screen menu that puts your most commonly used commands only two taps away.

If you are using the Allegro or Jett·ce you will want to “Auto Hide” the Taskbar so you can see the F6 – F10 command key assignments. To do this click START > Settings > Taskbar > AutoHide. You can then bring up the Taskbar by tapping on the very bottom of the touch screen or by pressing on the:

SMI Flex GPS Enhancements from Version 8.0m:

  1. NavCom is pleased to announce the release of V3.1.17 Software Ensemble for: RT-3010, RT-3020, SF-2040, SF-2050, NCT-2030M, NCT-2000 and NCT2100 Series Products. This ensemble has several changes and enhancements which were made based upon customer inputs and feedback. They are as follows:
    1. Improve RTG Dual and RTK Extend performance and reliability with enhanced satellite reacquisition, acquisition and SureNav. 1-sigma Error modeling of 0xB5, FOM and NMEA GST now includes RTK Extend navigation mode base on UKOAA guidelines.
    2. Addition of message containing Doppler information (0xB9).
    3. Ability for software reset using StarUtil or other control programs. Addition of initialization message (0x4e).
    4. Improve CMR RTK ambiguity resolution by repairing "clock valid" bit in CMR Type 0 messages.
  2. Navcom GPS Instrument Logging functions log additional messages for diagnostic purposes.
  3. Navcom GPS Instrument Logging functions store logging status in NVRAM. This allows the logging to resume after unit has had the power cycled.

Enhancements from Version 8.0m:

  1. Allegro MX is now supported.
  2. Sokkia SRX driver was added in the robotic versions.

SMI Flex GPS Enhancements from Version 8.0k:

  1. The WAAS delta offset now uses the same delta as the RTG offset. This change was made after we were informed by the FAA that WAAS uses the RTG deltas.

Fixed Issues from Version 8.0k:

  1. The Export RAW will now export all the raw data that the View command displays. Rarely this problem would occur, but when it did the software would just stop exporting the data.
  2. Chain file import has been optimized to support negative offsets within the templates.

Enhancements from Version 8.0k:

  1. Javad / TopCon GPS Instrument Logging functions (Start, Stop and Delete) have been added.
  2. Leica 500 series GPS Instrument Logging functions (Start, Stop and Delete) have been added.
  3. Leica Instrument Status (Graphical Satellite View) has been added.

SMI Flex GPS Enhancements from Version 8.0j:

  1. The StarFire satellites will now display in the GPS Status command when using StarFire receivers and the StarFire satellites are visible.

Fixed Issues from Version 8.0j:

  1. The built-in Transfer commands now support importing and exporting of the Backup.48d files.
  2. The GGA GPS driver now functions properly.
  3. The GGA shot qualities for RTK fix vs float are correct. RTK fix is 5 and Float is 4.
  4. The Insufficient Memory errors with some of the Construction commands.

Enhancements from Version 8.0j:

  1. Added 59 new Servo/Instrument Functions to the Favorite and Function Key commands.
  2. Added a new catagory for Servo/Instrument Functions to the Favorite and Function Key commands.
  3. Transfer - Import Jobs - Chains: When importing chain files created from other design software, right and left templates are sometimes created with unnecessary slope or offset records or even extra stations that follow a linear transition between stations. SMI now reads each chain file prior to be imported and optimizes the file, reducing the size of the file and improving performance when staking without affecting the accuracy of the chain.
    The original chain file is renamed with a CHB extension (Chain Backup) and kept in the same folder as the optimized chain which is named with the proper CH extension. This does not affect chains transferred via SMI Transfer, as the chain must be imported using the Transfer - Import Jobs command usually located along the top of Classic SMI for it to be optimized. You may however export the chain using Transfer - Export Jobs to the device, then re-import the chain using the Transfer menu.

Allegro CX MicroMonitor Firmware version 2.0

    The Allegro CX MicroMonitor Firmware Update is an enhancement that improves the performance and speed of the Allegro CX. Applying this update speeds up the applications that run on the Allegro CX and increases the overall performance of the unit. The memory bus speed has been increased to improve overall application performance, the PCMCIA timings have been changed to speed up PC cards and the C_Drive has been improved to shorten access times. This update also includes an Operating System control panel applet that allows a user more control over system performance and battery life to better meet individual needs.

    Download this uMon_Update_Installer.exe file to your desktop PC, and then double-click on the file to extract the Allegro CX installation files. Detailed install instructions open automatically when the file is extracted.

Fixed Issues from Version 8.0i:

  1. The Export RAW problem when it says there is no RAW data for the job when using the built-in Transfer command has been resolved.
  2. The problem where the RAW data seems to stop recording has been resolved.
    1. View RAW will now show all the RAW data for the job
    2. The built in Export RAW will export all the RAW data for the job
  3. The Geoid status display problems have been fixed.
  4. When exporting chain files the filenames will not have the SMITFRTMP prefix on the files.
  5. Geodimeter 600 and Trimble 5600 instruments will not search when the prism gets obstructed while using real-time stake or graphical stakeout.

New Jett·ce Operating System:

    Two Technologies has updated the Jett·ce operating system to version 4.20.087. All Jett·ce units manufactured after May 26, 2005 are equipped with the operating system version 4.20.087. The Jett·ce operating system version 4.20.087 includes the following updates:
    1. Fix for the hidden taskbar lockup at boot up.
    2. Fix for the Bluetooth lockup from the device being suspended and restarted repeatedly.
    3. Added "Sticky Key" functionality for Blue key.
    4. Added the Transcriber program (handwriting recognition).
    If you have purchased a Jett·ce data collector prior to May 26, Eagle Point will be sending you an operating system upgrade. Eagle Point will follow up to assist you in the updating process of your data collector(s) or answer any questions you may have. Even though the process of updating users has already begun, it may be 30 before you receive your update.

Enhancements from Version 8.0h:

  1. The Jett·ce data collector now produces audible cues when performing operations or errors occur.
  2. The Select Coordinate System dialog will now only display the coordinate system groups that are installed. The Installation will not install files for coordinate systems outside of North America unless the World option is chosen.
  3. The 2-corner, 3-corner and Point on Grade commands have been added to the Construction card. These commands will be available for the Construction, Construction with Robotic and DOT cards.

SMI Flex GPS Enhancements from Version 8.0h:

  1. Solid Earth Tide (SET) corrections will now be applied to a Starfire Base as well as a Starfire Rover.
  2. Added a new Quickstart command (QUIK) to the instrument function menu for the Starfire receivers. Running this command will not change any base parameters.

Fixed Issues from Version 8.0h:

  1. The Settings command will immediately apply the changes for the Com port and baud rate. You will no long need to exit the software and restart for the changes to take place.
  2. Bluetooth communication lock up errors caused by being out of range or Bluetooth being unavailable have been corrected.
  3. In Command Favorites and Command Keys modifications will now get saved to the specified menu.
  4. In Command Favorites and Command Keys the Delete command will now permanently delete the specified menu from the list.
  5. Graphical Stakeout will now start shot requests for the Topcon Total Station instrument when the command opens.
  6. Speed improvements have been made for the Javad instrument driver. This reduces the time required to obtain a position for many commands.

Enhancements from Version 8.0g:

  1. We have doubled the number of points that can be stored in a single storage file. If your device has sufficient room, you can change the storage file size to 4 MB. To do this go to File > Settings > Size of Storage File. This larger storage file size allows for storage of over 46,000 points depending on the SMI toggles like Elevation, Notes, and Raw. You will need to reset your device for this change to take effect.
  2. The maximum number of commands available in each "Command Favorites" menu has been increased to 50.
  3. We added 15 additional commands to the default Command Favorites Calculator menu.
  4. On the SMI Jett·ce, the Random Points (RPTS) key will automatically set the ALPHA mode toggle on. This allows for quicker access to the Backspace function, which requires the ALPHA key to be active on the Jett·ce data collector.

SMI Flex GPS Enhancements from Version 8.0g:

  1. With either the NCT or NCTG driver active the new NMEA command is available under INFN (Instrument Functions Menu). This new function allows the SMI Flex GPS system to be used with NMEA compliant software programs. For example: ESRI's ArcPad and DeLorme mapping products. The current baud rate will remain unchanged (typically 19200) and will need to be verified in the NMEA software.
    Note: To return the SMI Flex GPS receiver to native mode for operation with the SMI software you will need to run the PORTS command also in INFN prior to selecting the ROVER command.
    The following NMEA messages will be made available to the NMEA compliant software:
    1. GGA On Change (from once a second to 25 times a second)
    2. GSA every 3 seconds
    3. GSV every 2 seconds
    4. RMC every 5 seconds
    5. VTG every 4 seconds
  2. Added the ability for the SMI Flex system to work as an RTK Rover with so called VRS networks (Virtual Reference Stations). These network RTK systems typically require a position from the rover prior to generating RTK corrections for the Rover. Select the new the GGA command in INFN to start outputting the NMEA GGA message to the radio/cell modem (data port) every 30 seconds.
  3. The INFN PORTS command will stop all NMEA messages when selected.

Fixed Issues from Version 8.0g:

  1. The internal clock of SMI will synchronize its self with the data collectors BIOS clock when the device is woke up from suspend mode and when SMI starts. This resolves many time stamp related issues and allows for multiple sun shots to be performed in an 8-hour day possibly without exiting or resetting your clock.
  2. The on screen Geoid on/off toggle now displays its correct state after performing an install or running the Clear command.
  3. In Command Favorites and Command Keys the Delete command will now permanently delete the specified menu from the list.
  4. When performing NAD-27 to NAD-83 coordinate transformations you will no longer need to install the Alaska files.

Enhancements from Version 8.0f:

  1. The new Jett·ce Desktop Emulator product was added to the SMI Product line. This product can be installed by selecting "Install SMI Version 8 to PC". The Desktop Emulators contain a majority of the features found in the real field products, allowing you to perform survey calculation in the office without having the actual data collector. These emulators are also a good training tool allowing multiple users to familiarize themselves with the product prior to be required to use the system in the field.
  2. Leica GPS receivers
    1. Configured to use CMR corrections. This allows compatibility with SMI Flex GPS receivers using CMR corrections
    2. A new instrument function softkey of PDLCH was added, this allows SMI to set the Leica Pacific Crest PDL radio channel
    3. A new keyin of LCAPDLCH was added for the new Leica Change Channel command
    4. The Leica Change PDL Channel command was added to the GPS menu group
    5. Graphical Stakeout will now update the position 5 times per second
  3. Two new macros were added to switch from GPS Rover to Total Station and back both found in GPS Command Group
    1. Switch from GPS to TS
    2. Switch from TS to GPS
  4. The Geoid on/off status in the GPS screen will display the correct state for all cases

SMI Flex GPS Enhancements from Version 8.0f:

  1. The Start/Stop button now function properly in the GPS Static Logging Dialog
  2. The LOG softkey in the GPS NeXT menu now starts the GPS Static Logging Dialog
  3. The ITRF displacement vectors are now applied to the new Solid Earth Tide (SET) RTG navigation modes

Fixed Issues from Version 8.0f:

  1. SMI Jett·ce +/- key now runs the correct change sign function in all cases
  2. Graphical Stakeout cut/fill will now display in the current unit when in State Plane

SMI Flex GPS Enhancements from Version 8.0e:

  1. GPS diagnostics now displays the Navcom firmware version installed on the connected Navcom receiver.

Fixed Issues from Version 8.0e:

  1. The problem where pressing the ESC key multiple times unloaded the SMI product has been fixed.

Enhancements from Version 8.0d

  1. SMI has developed a new data collector aimed to satisfy SMI users wanting to upgrade to our new windows platform but desire a lower cost solution to the Allegro CX data collector. Key features of the SMI Jett·ce include.
    1. Custom Keyboard / Overlay which closely resembles the HP 48 layout
    2. 10 Custom Command Keys
    3. Color QVGA Touch Screen
    4. 10 Hour Runtime
    5. Optional Bluetooth Communications
    6. 64 MB Ram and 64 MB Built-in Storage

SMI Flex GPS Enhancements from Version 8.0d:

  1. Support for the new Navcom 3.0.4 firmware. Version 8 will continue to support 2.23.x and previously supported firmware.
    1. RTK Extend™ -  Combines the capabilities of the StarFire global decimeter positioning system with RTK to overcome the problem of communication dropouts. The RTK Extend feature overcomes this problem by continuously computing both RTK and StarFire solutions. During periods of successful RTK operation, the system keeps the back-up StarFire solution locked to the RTK solution until needed. If the receiver loses communication with the base station, it continues to output and position with RTK accuracy using the StarFire solution for up to 20 minutes. Once the communication link is restored, the system automatically switches back to the RTK solution.
    2. SureNav™ - Intelligently evaluates all combinations of single or dual frequency, 2D or 3D, type of corrections available including DGPS, WAAS/EGNOS, StarFire and RTK to select which of the 16 different operating modes will optimize performance. SureNav constantly evaluates navigation mode selection and smoothly transitions between navigation modes as appropriate. This decreases outage time in marginal signal conditions by combining single frequency and dual frequency measurements. 
    3. Solid Earth Tide corrections - The RTG positions are now adjusted for the effects of solid earth tides real-time. The system now models the effects of solid earth tides and automatically corrects the positions output by the receiver to remove the effects of solid earth tides on elevations.
    4. Improved RTK Performance - Ability to process multi-hertz CMR corrections at the rover. Corrected compatibility issues when broadcasting CMR & RTCM corrections for use with other manufacturer’s receivers. Improved ambiguity resolution at longer ranges.
    5. Improved Satellite acquisition - More reliable satellite acquisition in poor signal conditions.
    6. Internal data logging enhancements - If active, internal data logging will automatically resume following a power fail, or when the operator powers the unit off and on.
  2. Changed RTCM RTK Corrections Messages to 18/19 rather then 20/21 to allow for a larger list of manufacturers capable of receiving corrections from a SMI Flex Base.
  3. NCT and NCTG Driver automatically detect Starfire receivers and don't prompt for internal radios.
  4. More values are saved to RAM allowing the receivers to power up in the exact same state they were when powered off.

Fixed Issues from Version 8.0d:

  1. GEO 600 and Trimble 5600 Graphical Stakeout will now acquire first shot.
  2. GEO 600 and Trimble 5600 Graphical Stakeout shot update have been updated to 1 second vs. 10 seconds.
  3. When in a Local Coordinate System, long-range East/West distances in Graphical Stakeout were off by the SMI Earth Curvature Correction. This has been resolved.
  4. The slow communication issue after the device goes to sleep especially noticeable with Bluetooth has been resolved. This affected all instrument drivers causing slower operation of the device.
  5. An issue that caused SMI Transfer to timeout with DOT Versions has been resolved.
  6. FSPT from the staking menu and FSPT from the Construction menu were being swapped when used as custom command keys. These command are now referred to as FSPTC for Construction and FSPT for standard staking.
  7. Numerous other Custom Command Keys display names were updated to avoid confusion with similarly named commands.
  8. Juniper Systems has updated the Allegro CX Operating System to version 1.04. All Allegro CXs repaired and manufactured after December 21, 2004 are equipped with the operating system version 1.04. The Allegro CX Operation System Version 1.04 includes the following updates:
    1. Improves IrDA connectivity and speed has been dramatically improved through higher voltage.
    2. Memory Leak: The memory leak only occurred on monochrome units. The problem occurred during the process when the Allegro periodically checks the status of the display heater. In previous versions of the operating system every time this process ran, a small amount of RAM memory was used. After prolonged use, the RAM memory becomes depleted; this phenomenon is known as a memory leak. 
    3. Implements Microsoft QFE 040409_KB838793 regarding Microsoft ActiveSync file synchronization. File Synchronization using ActiveSync: Microsoft ActiveSync on CE .NET 4.2 was corrected so that desktop files that were previously synchronized with the handheld were not erroneously deleted from the desktop PC during the next synchronization with the handheld.
    4. For more information see Upgrading the Allegro CX Operating System