I have a 770d grader that I would like to fit with GPS control system. Which is best and what is the price?
Topcon, Trimble, and Leica are the top three manufacturers of grade control systems. You need to have an idea of the things you want to accomplish with this tool. (Do you need a 2D or 3D system? Fully auto or read only? GPS with laser augmentation?) There are a lot of questions to answer before you can understanding pricing. Good luck.
There is a company called Precision Equipment that sells used for all three manufacturers listed above. their website is prequipinc.com
not to be a party pooper on company endorsements, but if you only need to be able to track your pos, know your altitude, speed and gps location, why not just use an app for a tablet or phone? most are free to try out, maybe for nothing less than refining your tastes for pro gear..... on the other hand, I have found them to be just as accurate, plus even the mounts are cheaper, nevermind the license.
to be clear, I compared leica's system "jigsaw" to a free android apps "path tracker lite and Google earth"...... with little work, google earth and path tracker lite are free and compatable, jigsaw means you have to buy jigsaw gear, sending units, computer system, repeater units, and staff to moderate and execute... senseless if you have less than 100 employees.
We have really good luck with Trimble but as far as the "best" one on the market it really comes down to operator preference and customer service. You are probably going to have a better customer service experience with which ever brand dealer is closest to you. As far as cost goes it really depends on what you're needing out of the system like graderfun1 said.
Topcon works best for us, and it's about 110,000 to set up and install, including base station
Graderhead just curious how an app on a smartphone can be equal to trimble or topcon gps on a grader.
You will definitely need support from the dealer that sells the systems to you. With these systems a simple thing can render the system useless so you will need a dealer that will give you the training/assistance after you ahve made the purchase. I have 2 each 2D systems and 4 each 3D system all Topcon systems. I'm not saying Topcon is the best system however in South Australia the dealership has many trained staff that if one is on holidays or sick you still have someone to assist you, not leave stranded on the job. All the best Simonroadman