Blog posts of '2025' 'September'

Surveying provides the framework upon which the built environment is constructed. Roads, bridges, utilities, housing developments and industrial projects all depend on precise measurements carried out by professional surveyors. The equipment chosen for these tasks directly affects accuracy, speed and the safety of teams working on site.

Over the last three decades, the industry has moved through a period of remarkable change. Manual total stations, once the standard, have gradually been overtaken by robotic and hybrid solutions that combine mechanical precision with digital processing and software integration. These innovations have reduced the need for large survey teams, improved accuracy and created entirely new possibilities for data capture, such as 3D scanning and cloud-based collaboration.

At Hitechniques, we have supplied the Irish market with surveying instruments and technical services since 1991. Our customers range from DIY users and construction professionals to large-scale quarries, renewable energy projects and engineering firms. As the authorised distributor for GeoMax in Ireland, we not only provide instruments such as manual and robotic total stations, GNSS and RTK equipment, but also deliver training, hire services and calibration support. This combination ensures surveyors have the confidence to adopt new technology and apply it effectively to their projects.

This article traces the journey of surveying equipment, from the early reliance on manual total stations to the advanced robotic solutions available today. It also looks forward to the technologies shaping the future and explains how Hitechniques continues to play a central role in supporting professionals across Ireland.

Key Takeaways

• Manual total stations laid the groundwork, pairing EDM with angular measurement, but needed multiple operators and manual effort.
• Technological advances (optics, sensors, GNSS, batteries, software) unlocked more accuracy and paved the way for automation.
• Robotic total stations allow single-operator workflows, motorised prism tracking, faster project delivery and fewer errors.
• Integrated systems combining GNSS/RTK, data-logging and modern software platforms enable hybrid workflows and richer outputs.
• Emerging frontiers like 3D scanning, cloud connectivity, and digital twin capabilities are transforming survey deliverables.

Did you know that switching from manual to robotic total stations can reduce field crew size by up to 40 per cent?

Early Surveying Tools and Manual Total Stations

Surveying has long relied on the ability to measure distances and angles with precision. For centuries, surveyors used chains, tapes and compasses, often combined with theodolites to measure horizontal and vertical angles. These tools demanded significant skill, time and manpower, but they laid the foundations of modern surveying practice.

The development of electronic distance measurement (EDM) in the mid-20th century revolutionised the field. EDM technology employed light or infrared beams to measure distances more accurately and far faster than manual chains or tapes. This advance paved the way for the total station, an instrument that combined EDM with angular measurement in one unit.

Manual total stations quickly became indispensable across construction and civil engineering. Their operation required at least two people: one to aim and record readings at the instrument, and another to hold a prism or reflector at the measurement point. The process included:

• Aiming the telescope at the prism.
• Recording horizontal and vertical angles.
• Triggering the EDM to measure distance.
• Writing down or logging results manually.

These instruments provided excellent accuracy, often within millimetres, but they were labour-intensive. Any miscommunication between operators could cause errors, and data still had to be transferred to processing software back in the office. Despite these limitations, manual total stations represented a major leap forward from traditional methods and remain in use today where budgets are tighter or simplicity is preferred.

Technological Advances That Paved the Way

The leap from manual to robotic solutions was made possible by a series of incremental but important innovations.

• Optics and sensor improvements: Sharper telescopes, better angle encoders and more reliable EDM sensors increased accuracy and reliability.
• Digital electronics: The introduction of onboard memory and integration with handheld data loggers reduced transcription errors and sped up office processing.
• Battery technology: Longer-lasting and rechargeable batteries allowed surveyors to spend entire days in the field without interruptions.
• Software integration: Data could be imported directly into CAD and GIS packages, creating a smoother link between fieldwork and design.
• GNSS positioning: Although initially limited by accuracy, GNSS technology offered surveyors an alternative for establishing control points and large-scale positioning.

Accessories also played a role. Lightweight tripods, sturdier poles, and reliable prisms all contributed to more efficient workflows. At Hitechniques, we continue to supply these essentials, ensuring surveyors can rely on complete solutions, not just the core instrument.

The Rise of Robotic Total Stations

Robotic total stations marked a decisive turning point in the evolution of surveying. Unlike their manual predecessors, which required at least two operators, robotic instruments are designed for single-person use. A motorised mechanism automatically locks onto and tracks the prism, while the surveyor controls the instrument remotely using a field controller.

How robotic total stations transform workflows

In a traditional manual setup, one operator would manage the total station while another held the prism at the measurement point. Communication between the two was essential, and mistakes could occur if instructions were misheard or data was noted incorrectly. Robotic total stations eliminate much of this inefficiency. A single operator can move freely around the site with the prism, taking measurements that are instantly captured and stored digitally.

This transformation has a clear effect on productivity:

• Smaller field crews: one person can complete tasks that once required two or three.
• Faster project delivery: surveys can be completed in significantly less time, often reducing overall field time by 30–40 per cent.
• Digital accuracy: automatic data capture reduces transcription errors.
• Flexibility: surveyors can switch easily between layout, monitoring and topographic tasks.

An example from Hitechniques’ range

The GeoMax Zoom95, supplied by Hitechniques, demonstrates the advantages of robotic technology. It offers motorised automation, automatic prism tracking and compatibility with both Windows and Android field controllers. Combined with software integration, this allows surveyors to manage projects with a high degree of control, even in demanding field conditions.

Balancing benefits with challenges

Robotic systems do come with challenges. The initial investment is higher than that of a manual total station, and surveyors require training to make full use of the advanced functions. Regular calibration and servicing are essential to maintain accuracy. Battery life and field conditions must also be managed carefully.

Despite these considerations, the overall return on investment is strong. Reduced labour costs, faster project turnaround and greater accuracy lead to long-term efficiency gains for firms that adopt robotic total stations. For surveyors in Ireland, the availability of local sales, training and servicing from Hitechniques ensures these challenges are well supported, making the transition smoother and more cost-effective.

Integration with GNSS, RTK and Software

Modern survey workflows rarely rely on just one technology. Instead, surveyors often combine robotic total stations with GNSS and RTK systems.

This hybrid approach allows:

• GNSS to establish control points quickly and efficiently.
• Robotic total stations to take over where higher accuracy and line-of-sight measurements are required.
• Software to integrate data from multiple sources, producing comprehensive results for clients.

Field controllers and cloud-based platforms now allow surveyors to check data on site, share it instantly with colleagues and feed it into design workflows with minimal delay.

At Hitechniques, we provide both GNSS/RTK instruments and the accessories needed to make these integrations seamless, including poles, prisms and data loggers. With this combination, surveyors can switch smoothly between methods, choosing the most efficient tool for the task at hand.

Emerging Frontiers in Surveying

The future of surveying is increasingly defined by automation and digital capture. While robotic total stations already provide significant improvements, the industry is moving further towards integrated and data-rich solutions.

Developments shaping the next stage

• 3D scanning and digital capture: Hitechniques supports surveyors with 3D scanning services that provide comprehensive site data. This is invaluable for applications such as building information modelling (BIM), quarry stockpile measurement and structural monitoring.
• Proprietary innovations: GeoMax solutions such as MOS (Multi Observational System) and XRTK improve accuracy and adaptability, ensuring surveyors achieve reliable results even under challenging conditions.
• Cloud connectivity: Remote access, data sharing and collaboration are becoming central to modern projects, enabling teams to work together in real time regardless of location.
• Digital twins: The ability to create a complete digital replica of a site allows ongoing monitoring and analysis, giving stakeholders a more accurate picture throughout the lifecycle of a project.

These advances highlight that surveying is no longer just about capturing measurements. It is now about producing rich datasets that support planning, design, construction and maintenance.

Practical Impacts for Surveyors and Organisations

Investing in robotic and integrated surveying solutions has tangible benefits:

• Cost savings: reduced field teams and faster workflows lead to lower project costs.
• Accuracy: high-precision measurements reduce disputes and rework.
• Safety: less time spent in potentially hazardous locations, such as roads or unstable ground.
• Skills development: surveyors now build expertise in data handling and software alongside traditional measurement skills.

For many firms, the decision to move from manual to robotic systems comes down to balancing initial cost with long-term return on investment. By partnering with Hitechniques, surveyors gain not only access to equipment but also the training and support needed to maximise efficiency.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite their advantages, robotic and advanced systems also bring challenges:

• Higher purchase costs compared to manual instruments.
• Calibration and servicing requirements, which must be carried out regularly to maintain accuracy. Hitechniques provides this service locally in Ireland.
• Battery dependence, requiring surveyors to plan fieldwork carefully and carry backups.
• Large datasets, which must be processed, stored and managed effectively.

These challenges highlight the importance of choosing the right supplier. Having access to hire options, technical support and training ensures that limitations are minimised and surveyors can focus on delivering results.

Case Example: Transitioning from Manual to Robotic

Consider a construction firm in Ireland that had relied on manual total stations for many years. A typical job required a two-person crew: one at the instrument, another handling the prism. Fieldwork often took a full day, and manual note-taking meant additional time was needed in the office.

After upgrading to a robotic total station:

• A single operator could complete the same survey in less than a day.
• Data was captured digitally, removing the need for manual transcription.
• Labour costs were reduced by approximately 40 per cent over the course of a project.
• Survey teams were redeployed to other tasks, improving overall productivity.

While training and initial investment were necessary, the long-term gains were clear. The company achieved a return on investment within a short period, and the quality of deliverables improved. This example illustrates why more and more firms are making the transition.

Manual vs Robotic Total Stations

Timeline: Key Milestones in Surveying Technology

• Chains and Compasses (Ancient–19th Century): Provided the first systematic way to measure land, though limited in accuracy and dependent on manual effort.
• Theodolites (16th Century onwards): Introduced precise angular measurement, establishing the foundation of modern surveying.
• Electronic Distance Measurement (1960s): Replaced tapes and chains with instruments using light and radio waves, drastically improving speed and accuracy.
• Total Stations (1970s–1980s): Combined EDM with theodolite functionality in one instrument, simplifying workflows and improving productivity.
• Robotic Total Stations (1990s–2000s): Motorised instruments capable of tracking a prism automatically, enabling one-person surveying and reducing field crew sizes.
• GNSS and RTK (1990s onwards): Added satellite-based positioning with centimetre-level accuracy, creating opportunities for hybrid workflows.
• Digital Data Capture (2000s): Instruments began storing and transferring data digitally, reducing transcription errors and streamlining integration with CAD.
• Integrated Solutions (2010s): Introduction of 3D scanning, LiDAR and cloud-based collaboration allowed surveyors to deliver detailed models and share results instantly.
• Future Trends (2020s and beyond): Use of digital twins, AI-driven automation and innovations such as GeoMax MOS and XRTK are pushing surveying into an era of richer data and seamless connectivity.

Hitechniques Role

Since 1991, Hitechniques has been supplying surveyors, engineers and construction professionals in Ireland with trusted measurement solutions. We are proud to be the authorised distributor for GeoMax equipment, providing both manual and robotic total stations as well as GNSS/RTK instruments.

Our offering goes far beyond equipment sales. We provide:

• Calibration and servicing from our Irish facilities.
• Hire options for short- and long-term needs.
• Technical support to keep surveyors working effectively.
• Training to help clients adopt new technologies with confidence.

Our customer base spans DIY enthusiasts, construction professionals, quarries, wind farms and large engineering firms. In every case, our goal is to provide the right tools and the right support to ensure accurate and efficient results.

Conclusion: Robotic Total Stations

The journey from manual total stations to robotic solutions represents a major step forward in surveying technology. Accuracy, efficiency and flexibility have improved dramatically, and the ability to integrate GNSS, RTK and 3D scanning means surveyors can now achieve results that were previously unthinkable.

Looking ahead, we expect to see further automation, improved digital capture, and even tighter integration of data across platforms. For organisations, the key will be to invest wisely, train staff effectively, and work with trusted partners.

At Hitechniques, we are committed to helping surveyors embrace these advances, ensuring they have the equipment, support and training needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.

Discover how Hitechniques can equip your projects with robotic total stations and provide the expertise to deploy them with confidence. Contact us today to find out more.

Glossary of Key Terms

• EDM (Electronic Distance Measurement): Technology that uses electromagnetic waves to measure distances quickly and accurately, replacing manual tape or chain measurements. Essential to the development of total stations.
• GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System): A satellite-based positioning system that allows surveyors to determine exact coordinates anywhere on Earth. Often combined with total stations for hybrid workflows.
• RTK (Real-Time Kinematic): A GNSS correction technique providing centimetre-level accuracy in real time, critical for precision engineering and construction tasks.
• Prism: A reflective device used with total stations to return measurement signals. Robotic stations automatically track the prism, allowing one-person operation.
• Robotic Total Station: A motorised and remote-controlled total station capable of tracking prisms and recording data digitally, reducing the need for multiple operators.
• LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging): A scanning technology that measures millions of points using laser pulses, producing detailed 3D models of sites and structures.
• Digital Twin: A virtual model of a physical site or asset created from survey data. Increasingly used in construction and infrastructure management to monitor conditions and simulate scenarios.
• BIM (Building Information Modelling): A digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility, which integrates survey data into wider design and project workflows.
• Control Point: A known, fixed reference point used as the basis for survey measurements. Establishing accurate control is vital for both manual and robotic surveys.

Further Reading

• Survey identifies trends in profession’s use of tech: A 2024 RICS survey analysing how emerging technologies are being adopted in surveying, highlighting opportunities and barriers.
• Improving Surveying Efficiency by Using Robots and Precision Positioning: Case study-style article showing how robotic surveying and precision positioning improve speed and accuracy in construction layouts.
• Efficiency of Terrestrial Laser Scanning in Survey Works: Research assessing applications of LiDAR in site modelling, deformation monitoring and stockpile measurement.

For some Matterport Pro3 users, projects don’t always happen just down the road. Whether you’re scanning property abroad, documenting construction projects across Europe, or capturing commercial spaces further afield, it’s essential to understand the rules and best practices for travelling with your Pro3 camera and accessories.

Airline regulations around lithium-ion batteries are strict, and failing to follow them can cause major delays at the airport—or worse, confiscation of equipment. Below, we’ve outlined the key regulations and some practical packing advice to help you travel with confidence.

Airline Regulations for the Matterport Pro3

When flying commercially with the Matterport Pro3, you must follow these rules:

• Battery must be removed from the camera – the Pro3 battery cannot remain inside the device during air travel.
• Batteries must be in carry-on luggage – they are not permitted in the hold under any circumstances.
• Camera itself may travel in either carry-on or checked baggage – depending on your preference and luggage allowance.

These rules are in line with international aviation safety standards for lithium-ion batteries. Always double-check with your airline, as specific carriers may impose additional restrictions.

Recommended Packing Strategy

Based on experience, here’s a tried-and-tested approach to dividing equipment between carry-on and hold luggage:

Carry-On Bag

• Matterport Pro3 Camera – protects against rough handling and baggage loss.
• Camera Batteries – lithium-ion batteries must always stay with you.
• iPad – essential for controlling the camera and reviewing scans on site.
• Power Banks – useful for keeping iPad charged during capture.

Hold Luggage

• Tripod – sturdy but heavy, best kept in checked baggage.
• Leveller – precision levelling tool designed for the Pro3.
• Dolly – faster capture and reduced operator fatigue. Essential for mesh floors.
• Wedges – AKA door stops for keeping doors open.
• Chargers and Cables – safe in the hold, helps reduce clutter in carry-on.

This setup keeps all sensitive electronics and batteries with you while freeing up valuable cabin space for the essentials you’ll need in transit.

Cost-Saving Tip: Leave Gear at Your Destination

If you travel to the same location regularly, it may be worth investing in duplicate equipment that remains on site. Over time, this can save significant hassle and reduce baggage costs. Items that are ideal to duplicate include:

• Tripod
• Leveller
• Dolly
• Wedges

Not only does this strategy lighten your travel load, but it also speeds up your workflow when you arrive—your equipment will already be waiting.

Final Thoughts

Travelling with the Matterport Pro3 doesn’t need to be stressful if you plan ahead and follow airline regulations. Keep your batteries in your carry-on, pack strategically, and consider leaving larger accessories at your regular destinations. By doing so, you’ll protect your investment, save time, and ensure you’re always ready to capture high-quality scans wherever your work takes you.

Precision in excavation is not just a question of speed, it is a determining factor in project quality, safety, and cost efficiency. Digital machine control technology has moved the construction sector forward by replacing guesswork and manual checking with accurate, real-time positioning data directly in the operator’s cab. At Hitechniques, we provide Unicontrol’s 2D and 3D machine control systems, giving contractors of all sizes the flexibility to choose the right level of technology for their current projects and to grow into more advanced systems when needed.

In this article, we explain the differences between 2D and 3D machine control, how each system works, the benefits and limitations of both, and how contractors can plan a technology pathway that protects their investment.

Key Takeaways

• Unicontrol 2D offers an affordable entry point into machine control with ±2 mm accuracy, no GNSS requirement, and a fast learning curve.
• Unicontrol 3D delivers centimetre-level accuracy with GNSS positioning, design file support, and advanced as-built documentation capabilities.
• Both systems feature intuitive cab-mounted tablets, IMU sensors, and remote diagnostics via Unicontrol Cloud.
• Contractors can start with Unicontrol 2D and upgrade to 3D without replacing existing sensors or hardware.
• Choosing between 2D and 3D depends on budget, project complexity, documentation needs, and long-term scalability plans.

Unicontrol 3D lets you work directly from 3D design files with centimetre-level accuracy.

Understanding Unicontrol 2D

Key Features in Detail

Unicontrol 2D is designed for contractors who want to take a step into machine control without the higher initial cost of GNSS-based systems. The system provides instant height and slope guidance using Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors installed on the machine’s moving parts and, optionally, a laser receiver for height reference. The data is displayed on a large, rugged tablet that sits in the cab, allowing operators to see their bucket position in real time.

Components include:

• Cab-mounted tablet with a responsive touch screen and clear visual layout.
• IMU sensors on the boom, stick, and bucket for angular measurement.
• Control interface via joystick buttons or auxiliary controls.
• Optional Spectra Precision laser receiver for reference height, extending the system’s versatility.
• Unicontrol Cloud for software updates, file storage, and remote diagnostics.

Operator Experience

Most operators can become proficient with Unicontrol 2D in under an hour. The interface shows the bucket tip position relative to the target slope or depth, and audible cues can be set to alert the operator when the target is reached. This means fewer stoppages to check with a grade rod or laser level.

Benefits

• Low capital investment starting from around €8,200.
• Minimal hardware requirements and quick installation.
• Works without GNSS, making it suitable for covered sites or urban areas with poor satellite visibility.
• Reduces the risk of over-digging or undercutting.
• Cuts down on surveying costs for simpler projects.
• Can be expanded to 3D without replacing the existing sensors.

Typical Applications

• Preparing house foundations.
• Levelling small commercial sites.
• Creating simple slopes for drainage.
• Agricultural works such as levelling plots or farm roads.

Understanding Unicontrol 3D

Key Features in Detail

Unicontrol 3D is a fully featured machine control system that uses GNSS for accurate three-dimensional positioning. Dual GNSS antennas mounted on the machine, combined with IMU sensors, track the bucket’s location and orientation at all times. Operators can import full design files, work to complex models, and create as-built records without leaving the cab.

Core components include:

• Dual GNSS antennas for position and heading accuracy.
• IMU sensors installed on machine components.
• Cab-mounted tablet with advanced but intuitive software.
• Design file support for DXF and LandXML formats.
• Onboard surface creation tools allowing operators to map or create designs directly.
• Cloud connectivity for design uploads, system updates, and diagnostics.
• Fallback 2D mode for working when satellite reception is temporarily unavailable.

Operator Experience

Training time is short thanks to Unicontrol’s clean, icon-based menus and minimal button count. Operators can switch between plan view, profile view, and 3D perspective to match their preferences. In-built calibration routines ensure accuracy, and remote support can help troubleshoot or guide users in real time.

Benefits

• Suitable for large, complex projects that demand tight tolerances.
• Reduces dependency on site surveyors for setting out and checking work.
• Increases productivity by up to 50% compared to traditional methods.
• Handles multiple design layers and surface types.
• Provides comprehensive as-built documentation for compliance and quality control.
• Works with a wide range of machines and attachments.

Typical Applications

• Road construction with complex profiles.
• Bulk earthworks involving cut and fill balancing.
• Large housing or commercial developments.
• Civil engineering works requiring accurate tie-ins.

Technical Comparison: How the Systems Work

Positional Awareness

• 2D system: Uses IMU sensors to measure angles of boom, stick, and bucket, with a laser receiver to set and maintain height reference.
• 3D system: Adds GNSS receivers for absolute positioning on site coordinates, enabling full model execution.
  
  

Guidance Display

• 2D: Simple cross-section view showing bucket relative to design slope.
• 3D: Multiple viewing modes including 3D terrain model overlay.

Data Flow and Connectivity

• 2D: Primarily operates with onboard settings; optional cloud connection for updates.
• 3D: Integrates directly with design workflows, receiving files via cloud and exporting as-built data.

Benefits and Use Cases

Why Contractors Choose Unicontrol 2D

• Affordability: Lower initial cost allows small businesses to adopt machine control sooner.
• Speed of adoption: Minimal training needed for proficiency.
• Simplicity: No GNSS setup or calibration required for most jobs.
• Reliability: Works indoors and in obstructed environments.

Use Cases:

• Farm road levelling.
• Car park base preparation.
• Drainage trench excavation.

Why Contractors Choose Unicontrol 3D

• Design-driven: Ability to work directly to 3D models without manual interpretation.
• Documentation: Creates accurate as-built records for client handover.
• Productivity: Reduced passes, less rework, faster completion times.
• Scalability: Supports large teams and multiple machine types.

Use Cases:

• Motorway interchanges.
• Airport runways and aprons.
• Multi-level landscaping projects.

Operator Perspective and Training

A common concern when upgrading technology is operator readiness. With Unicontrol’s interface, both systems have a learning curve measured in minutes rather than days. For 2D, operators quickly grasp depth and slope indications. For 3D, the added complexity is balanced by clear graphics and easy-to-access menus.

Hitechniques offers on-site training and remote assistance, ensuring that both new and experienced operators get the most from the system.

Integration with Existing Workflows

Unicontrol systems are designed to fit into existing contractor processes. For 2D, this means working alongside basic site surveying tools. For 3D, integration includes importing design files from engineers, syncing via the cloud, and exporting as-built data for verification.

Workflow advantages of 3D integration:

• Direct link between design office and machine cab.
• Real-time updates if design changes mid-project.
• As-built documentation immediately available for quality assurance.

Upgrade Path and Scalability

Starting with 2D is a sensible approach for many small to medium-sized contractors. The same sensors and tablet can be retained when upgrading to 3D, with the main additions being GNSS antennas and associated cabling. This approach means no wasted investment in hardware.

Subscription models, such as Unicontrol OnDemand, allow contractors to access 3D capabilities for a fixed monthly fee, which can be useful for specific high-value projects.

Choosing the Right System: Contractor Decision Guide

Consider:

• Budget: Initial investment and long-term ROI.
• Project scale: Single small site vs multi-phase development.
• Documentation needs: Client handover requirements.
• Operator skill levels: Ease of adoption for your team.

Case Scenarios

Case 1: Small Civil Contractor

A contractor specialising in residential drainage works adopts Unicontrol 2D. Within weeks, project times are reduced by 20% as fewer checks are needed, and over-excavation is eliminated.

Case 2: Large Infrastructure Project

A civil engineering firm working on a bypass project equips excavators with Unicontrol 3D. With complex cut-and-fill designs and tight tolerances, the system enables direct execution from digital models, reducing surveyor input by half and keeping the project on schedule.

Conclusion: 3D vs 2D Machine Control

Both Unicontrol 2D and Unicontrol 3D deliver measurable gains in productivity, accuracy, and cost efficiency. The right choice depends on your current project needs, future growth plans, and working environments.

Hitechniques ensures that whichever path you take, you’ll benefit from robust hardware, intuitive software, and full support throughout the system’s life. Contact us to arrange a demonstration and see how Unicontrol can transform your excavation workflow.

Contact Hitechniques today to arrange your Unicontrol demonstration and see how precision machine control can transform your projects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the main difference between Unicontrol 2D and Unicontrol 3D?

Unicontrol 2D uses IMU sensors and an optional laser receiver to provide accurate height and slope guidance, making it ideal for simpler grading and levelling tasks. Unicontrol 3D adds GNSS positioning and the ability to work directly from 3D design files, making it suitable for complex projects and larger sites.

Do I need GNSS for Unicontrol 2D?

No. Unicontrol 2D does not require GNSS signals and can be used in areas where satellite reception is unavailable, such as covered sites or urban locations with obstructions.

Can I upgrade from Unicontrol 2D to Unicontrol 3D?

Yes. The system is designed to be scalable. You can keep the existing sensors and tablet from your 2D setup and add GNSS antennas and associated components to enable 3D functionality.

How accurate are the systems?

Unicontrol 2D can achieve accuracy within ±2 mm when properly calibrated. Unicontrol 3D delivers centimetre-level accuracy using multi-constellation GNSS positioning.

What machines can Unicontrol be fitted to?

Both systems are compatible with a wide range of construction equipment including excavators, wheel loaders, and dozers. Unicontrol 3D also supports specialised attachments such as swing booms and tilt rotators.

How long does it take to train operators?

Most operators can become confident with Unicontrol 2D in less than an hour. Unicontrol 3D, despite its additional capabilities, has a similarly short learning curve thanks to its intuitive interface.

Does Unicontrol 3D work without satellite reception?

If GNSS signal is temporarily unavailable, Unicontrol 3D can switch to 2D mode so work can continue without interruption.

What are the typical costs?

As a guide, Unicontrol 2D starts from approximately €8,200, rising to around €10,300 with the optional laser receiver. A full Unicontrol 3D system is typically around €22,200 including GNSS hardware. Subscription options are also available.

Is there a trial available?

Yes. Hitechniques can arrange demonstrations and trial periods so you can experience the benefits of Unicontrol before making a full purchase decision.