FAQ
Device common problems and solutions
1. Which is more advanced, the satellite grader or the laser grader?
The satellite grader can replace the traditional laser grader. It is more convenient to use, not limited by distance or line-of-sight, and is particularly suitable for large-area field leveling. Satellite grading technology represents the current industry trend.
2. ls your grading system single or dual control? What is the difference?
The system inherently supports dual control. Single control, by default, only manages the lift of the grading blade. Dual control can simultaneously manage the blade lift and the tilt of the moldboard (or another second set of hydraulic valves).
3. Does the TMC10 system support real-time differential positioning via network (NTRIP)?
Yes. The system supports RTN (Real-Time Network) differential correction. It can use GPRS/4G networks and the NTRIP protocol to receive differential data from CORS base stations, achieving high-precision positioning.
4. Does the TMC10 system automatically control the dozer's blade?
No. The TMC10 is a guidance system. It guides the operator to manually control the blade by displaying the real-time difference (e.g., “Fill” or “Cut”) between the blade’s elevation and the design elevation on a tablet. The system itself does not directly control the hydraulic actuators.
5. Why must the sensors be installed in specific locations like the linkage and the arm?
This is determined by the system’s mechanical kinematics model. The model presets the sensor installation positions. Only by installing them at these specific points can the system accurately calculate the bucket’s precise 3D coordinates.
6. Can a camera be added to the TMC20 for remote monitoring of the construction site by office personnel?
Yes. However, this requires additional camera hardware and the corresponding remote monitoring software functionality. Contact us if needed.
7. on which excavator models can the TMC20 system be installed?
This system features a universal design and can theoretically be installed on various brands and models of excavators. Specific installation requires bracket adaptation based on the actual machine model.
8. What is the model of the GNSS receiver board used in the system? Which satelite systems and protocols does it support?
The system uses the UM980. It supports satellite systems including BeiDou, GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo. The communication protocol typically used is RTCM.
9. When starting automated operation, does the tractor reguire manual alignment to the AB line after making a turn?
Yes. After the tractor turns around, the driver needs to manually steer to bring the vehicle approximately back near the AB line. Then, upon re-engaging the auto-steering mode, the system will guide the vehicle precisely back to point A.
10. ls there a remote platform to view the tractor's operation status and trajectory?
Yes. We provide a remote precision agriculture platform (currently in Chinese version) where you can view the vehicle’s real-time location, operation trajectory, and other information.
11. What are the communication modes for the automatic steering system? Which one reguires a SlM card?
The satellite grader can replace the traditional laser grader. It is more convenient to use, not limited by distance or line-of-sight, and is particularly suitable for large-area field leveling. Satellite grading technology represents the current industry trend.
12.How to convert GNSS files to standard Rinex files?
Refer to the conversion tool usage tutorial.
13. How to configure ZXVPN online?
Refer to the Configuring ZXVPN Operation Manual.
14. How to upgrade the device firmware?
Refer to the Host Upgrade Firmware Operation Manual.
15.How to ensure higher accuracy in photogrammetry?
· Before photogrammetry, test the tilt measurement function. Measure a point and perform stake out. If the stake out accuracy is within 2cm, the tilt measurement is functioning well.
· After photogrammetry, check the accuracy. Measure the photogrammetry point again with regular tilt measurement. Use the “Great-circle distance” function to calculate the distance between the two points. If the distance is within 2.5cm, the measurement accuracy is basically acceptable. Then you can further verify using point stake out.
16.How to perform photogrammetry operations?
· Taking photos. Move around the object as the software suggests and take at least 5 photos.
· Selecting points. After taking photos, enter the photo gallery to choose and save suitable points. Note: Points with great color contrast to surrounding objects are preferred to prevent calculation failures.
17.Are there environmental requirements for photogrammetry?
· Avoid measuring in dim environments.
· Avoid measuring in extreme weather like heavy rain, dense fog, or heavy snow.
· Avoid measuring near high – rise buildings.
18.What should be checked before using photogrammetry?
· Check the satellite count and differential delay. There should be over 25 available satellites, with a differential delay of no more than 3 (preferably maintained at 1). These two status can be directly viewed at the top right corner of the software.
· Check the communication connection. The photogrammetry software and receiver must communicate via Wi-Fi, which can be checked in the communication settings.
· Check the inertial navigation (IMU) status. If it’s unavailable, the measurement interface will show a warning in red.
19. What operations might increase laser measurement errors?
· Strong impact of the pole tip on the ground can affect the IMU data of the receiver. Walking with the pole tilted after the IMU is activated may prevent the IMU from accurately sensing the initial posture.
20.How to ensure higher accuracy in laser measurements?
· Before laser measurement, test the tilt measurement function. Measure a point and then perform stake out. If the stake out accuracy is within 2cm, the tilt measurement is functioning well.
· After laser measurement, verify the accuracy. Compare the points measured with the laser with those measured using point – to – point survey. Use the “Great-circle distance” function to calculate the difference between the two points. If the difference is within 2cm, the measurement accuracy is basically acceptable. Then you can further verify using point stake out and laser stake out.
21.How to perform laser measurement operations?
· Initialization. Each time you enter the laser measurement interface, initialization is required, including for the IMU and the laser.
o The IMU can be initialized by gently shaking the staff back and forth.
o For laser measurement initialization, first check that the measurement interface can display distance properly, then walk straight for about 5 – 10m.
· Time limit for measurement. Measurement should be completed within 15 seconds after initialization. If it exceeds 15 seconds, re – initialization is needed.
· Measurement distance. To ensure a laser measurement accuracy within 2.5cm, the measurement distance should be within 5m.
· Stability of the laser aiming point. When measuring, try to keep the laser point steadily aimed at the target point without shaking before taking the measurement.
22.Are there environmental requirements for laser measurement?
· Avoid measuring on surfaces with very low reflectivity (e.g., black surfaces) or very high reflectivity (e.g., mirrors).
· Avoid measuring in strong light conditions.
· Avoid measuring in extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain, dense fog, or heavy snow.
· Avoid measuring near high – rise buildings.
23. What should be checked before using laser measurement?
· Check the number of satellites and differential delay. There should be over 25 available satellites, with a differential delay of no more than 3 (preferably maintained at 1). These two status can be directly viewed at the top right corner of the controller software.
· Check the inertial navigation (IMU) status. In the tilt measurement interface, there’s a section showing whether the IMU is available.
24. The device cannot receive satellite signals.
A. Check if the surrounding environment meets the conditions for satellite signal reception.
B. Ensure the registration code is not expired.
C. Verify if the device is restricted in the current area.
D. Make sure the satellite system is not turned off.
E. Check if the board firmware is correctly upgraded.
25.The device displays a registration code expired message.
A. Connect the handbook to the device hotspot.
B. Enter the website address 10.10.10.10 in the browser.
C. Go to “Device Operation” – Input the registration code – Click “Register”
26.Device shows area restrictions
-Method 1-
a. Connect the handbook to the device hotspot.
b. Enter the website address 10.10.10.10 in the browser.
c. Go to “Device Operation” – Enter the custom code – Click “Write”
-Method 2-
a. Open the T-Survey, connect the device via Bluetooth.
b. Go to “Configuration” – “Function Code Registration” – Input the custom code – Click “Register”
27.Device displays "Positioning Configuration Failed"
-Method 1-
a. Connect the handbook to the device hotspot.
b. Enter the website address 10.10.10.10 in the browser.
c. Go to “Device Operation” – Enter the custom code – Click “Write”
-Method 2-
a. Open the T-Survey, connect the device via Bluetooth.
b. Go to “Configuration” – “Communication Settings” – Enable debugging – Input the command “SET, FRESET, GNSS” – Click “Send”
28.The device cannot achieve a fixed solution.
A. Check whether differential data has been obtained:
– Check if the differential account is valid.
– If the device network is online.
– If the radio protocol and frequency match the base station.
B. Ensure the satellite reception environment is good.
C. Avoid using the device during thunderstorms.
29.The device prompts a large base station startup coordinate deviation
A. Check if the base station was started with fixed coordinates.
If the deviation between the fixed coordinates and the actual coordinates is significant.
It is recommended to obtain accurate fixed coordinates or switch to single-point coordinates for base station startup.
30. The device shows that the Ntrip Client connection failed.
A. Check if the device is properly inserted with a SIM card.
B. Verify if the mobile network is online.
C. Confirm if the CORS IP address, port, name, and password are correct, and account not expired.
31. The device displays that the Ntrip Server connection failed.
A. Check if the device is properly inserted with a SIM card.
B. Verify if the mobile network is online.
C. Confirm if the CORS IP address, port, name, and password are correct.
32. The device prompts the mobile network to be offline.
A. Try reinserting the SIM card.
B. Restart the device.
C. Switch network standards.
D. Ensure the correct APN name, username, and password are entered.
E. Verify if the SIM card can access the internet.
33. The built-in radio cannot receive differential data.
A. Check if the built-in antenna is properly connected.
B. Ensure the radio protocol and frequency match the base station.
34. Setting static mode displays does not meet the storage conditions
A. Check the PDOP limit and height cutoff angle.
B. Ensure the satellite reception environment is good.
C. Avoid using the device during thunderstorms.
35. How to download static data?
Log in to the website – Go to “File Management” – Select the date – Download the static raw data
36. How long can the device be fully charged?
Refer to section 2.5 of the Device User Manual.
37. What is the typical battery life of the device?
Refer to Chapter 2 of the Device User Manual.
38.How to confirm that the mobile network is online?
Login Web Page – “Advanced Options” – “Network Link” – “Network Status” – Check whether the mobile network status is displayed online.
39. How to enable or disable satellite systems?
Log in to the web page – “Other Configurations” – “System” (check to enable, not check to close)
40. How to configure the storage data?
Refer to section 3.12 of the Device User Manual.
Software common problems and solutions
1. What communication solution is recommended for areas with poor network signals?
Using Radio mode is recommended. Since mobile network signals might be weak in remote rural areas, using a UHF radio is not limited by network coverage. Furthermore, local farms may already have a shared radio base station network available.
2. How can l set up the system to upload agricultural machinery operation data to the Precision Agriculture Platform?
Within the software settings of the auto-steering or guidance system, locate the data upload function (usually requiring a password, e.g., 2022). Correctly enter the server IP address, port number, and other information provided by the platform, and then turn on the “Data Upload” switch.
3. What is the main purpose of the Precision Agriculture Platform?
This platform is used for remote monitoring and management of agricultural machinery. You can view the real-time location, historical operation tracks, worked area, and other information of your machinery, functioning as a centralized equipment information management center.
4. Can the control software be installed and used on any tablet?
No. The software is developed and optimized for specific models of industrial tablets. Hardware resources vary greatly between different tablets, and the software cannot guarantee compatibility and stability on all Android tablets.
5.what causes lagging/stuttering during photogrammetry?
· Only run the measuring software on the controller. Other software might consume resources needed for photogrammetry, causing the measurement to crash or lag halfway.
6. Can a camera be added to the TMC20 for remote monitoring of the construction site by office personnel?
A. Check the PDOP limit and height cutoff angle.
B. Ensure the satellite reception environment is good.
7.Device Bluetooth cannot be found.
A. Click “Search Bluetooth Devices” again.
B. Ensure that the location information on the device is enabled.
C. Check if the device is turned on.
D. Verify if the Bluetooth name of the device has been changed.
E. Ensure that the device is not too far away from the device.
8.Device Bluetooth cannot be connected
A. Re-search for Bluetooth and connect again.
B. Pairing is required for initial connection.
9.Device cannot connect to Bluetooth through NFC
A. Check if the NFC on the device is working properly.
B. Verify if the NFC tag content matches the actual Bluetooth address of the device.
C. Confirm if the NFC tag is locked.
10. invalid solution displayed when connecting the device's Bluetooth on the handbook.
A. Check if the surroundings meet the reception conditions.
B. Check if the registration code has expired.
C. Verify if there are any regional restrictions.
D. Ensure that the Bluetooth is connected.
E. Check if the satellite system is turned off
11. Software prompts that the registration code has expired.
Go to “Configuration” – “Instrument Registration” – Input the registration code – Click “Register”
12.Measurement prompts that the software has expired
Go to “Projects” – “About Software” – “Software Activation” – Enter the registration code – Click “Activate”
13. Handbook fails to retrieve access points from the network.
A. Check if the handbook has internet access.
B. Verify the correctness of the CORS IP address, port, username and password.
14. The device fails to retrieve access points from the network
A. Check whether the device is inserted with SIM card.
B. Check if the mobile network is online.
C. Verify the correctness of the CORS IP address, port, name and password.
15. The device network failed to obtain a fixed solution.
A. Check if the device is inserted with a SIM card.
B. Check if the device has internet access.
C. Ensure the CORS account is valid.
D. Ensure the satellite reception environment is good.
E. Check if there is any thunderstorm or rainy weather.
16.Handbook network failed to obtain a fixed solution.
A. Check if the handbook has internet access.
B. Ensure the CORS account is valid.
C. Ensure the satellite reception environment is good.
D. Check if there is any thunderstorm or rainy weather.
17. The built-in radio failed to obtain a fixed solution.
A. Check if the built-in antenna is connected.
B. Configure the radio protocol and frequency to match the base station.
C. Ensure the satellite reception environment is good.
D. Check if there is any thunderstorm or rainy weather.
18. Check if there is any thunderstorm or rainy weather.
Check if the base station is started with fixed coordinates.
If the deviation between fixed coordinates and actual coordinates is too large.
It is recommended to reacquire fixed coordinates or switch to single-point coordinates to start the base station.
19. Software displays a fixed solution, but data collection is not possible.
The tilt is enabled, but the inertial navigation correlation has not been completed.
20. How to complete the inertial navigation convergence of the device?
A. Confirm that the input pole height matches the actual pole height.
B. Rock the centering rod back and forth for 5-10 seconds.
If convergence is not completed, rotate the centering rod 90°, then rock the centering rod back and forth for 5-10 seconds.
21. How to find the central meridian?
In the coordinate system, there is a positioning icon for the central meridian. When the device is connected and receiving signals, clicking it will automatically find the correct central meridian.
22. How to configure ZXVPN?
Go to “Configuration” – “Instrument Settings” – “VPN Settings” – Click “Default” – Click “Confirm”
23. VPN status shows offline.
A. Check if the device is inserted with a SIM card.
B. Check if the device has internet access.
24. How to export data?
Go to “Project” – “Data export” – Select data format and length unit for export – Click “Export”
25. How to import data?
Go to “Project” – “Data Import” – Select data format and parameters for import – Click “Next” – Locate the file to be imported – Click “OK”