Trimble 50158 R8 User Manual

Trimble® R7/R8 GPS Receiver

User Guide



Version 2.11

Revision A

June 2004

Corporate Office

Hardware Limited Warranty

Trimble Navigation Limited
Engineering and Construction Division
5475 Kellenburger Road
Dayton, Ohio 45424-1099
U.S.A.

Copyright and Trademarks

© 2001-2004, Trimble Navigation Limited. All
rights reserved.

Trimble, the Globe & Triangle logo, and GPS
Total Station are trademarks of Trimble
Navigation Limited, registered in the United
States Patent and Trademark Office and other
countries. eRTK, Micro-Centred, SiteNet, Trimble
Geomatics Office, Trimble Survey Controller,
Trimble Survey Pro, TRIMMARK, TRIMTALK,
TSC1, TSCe, and Zephyr are trademarks of
Trimble Navigation Limited.

The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by
the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks
by Trimble Navigation Limited is under license

Microsoft and Windows are either registered
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other
countries.

All other trademarks are the property of their
respective owners.

Release Notice

This is the June 2004 release (Revision A) of the
Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide. It
applies to version 2.11 of the Trimble R7/R8 GPS
receivers.

Trimble warrants that this Trimble hardware
product (the “Product”) shall be free from defects
in materials and workmanship and will
substantially conform to Trimble’s applicable
published specifications for the Product for a
period of one (1) year, starting from the date of
delivery. The warranty set forth in this paragraph
shall not apply to software/firmware products.

Software and Firmware License, Limited
Warranty

This Trimble software and/or firmware product
(the “Software”) is licensed and not sold. Its use is
governed by the provisions of the applicable End
User License Agreement (“EULA”), if any,
included with the Software. In the absence of a
separate EULA included with the Software
providing different limited warranty terms,
exclusions, and limitations, the following terms
and conditions shall apply. Trimble warrants that
this Trimble Software product will substantially
conform to Trimble’s applicable published
specifications for the Software for a period of
ninety (90) days, starting from the date of
delivery.

Warranty Remedies

Trimble's sole liability and your exclusive remedy
under the warranties set forth above shall be, at
Trimble’s option, to repair or replace any Product
or Software that fails to conform to such warranty
(“Nonconforming Product”), or refund the
purchase price paid by you for any such
Nonconforming Product, upon your return of any
Nonconforming Product to Trimble in accordance
with Trimble’s standard return material
authorization procedures.

The following limited warranties give you specific
legal rights. You may have others, which vary
from state/jurisdiction to state/jurisdiction.

Warranty Exclusions and Disclaimer

These warranties shall be applied only in the event
and to the extent that: (i) the Products and
Software are properly and correctly installed,
configured, interfaced, maintained, stored, and
operated in accordance with Trimble’s relevant
operator's manual and specifications, and; (ii) the
Products and Software are not modified or
misused. The preceding warranties shall not apply
to, and Trimble shall not be responsible for defects

or performance problems resulting from (i) the
combination or utilization of the Product or
Software with products, information, data,
systems or devices not made, supplied or specified
by Trimble; (ii) the operation of the Product or
Software under any specification other than, or in
addition to, Trimble's standard specifications for
its products; (iii) the unauthorized modification or
use of the Product or Software; (iv) damage
caused by accident, lightning or other electrical
discharge, fresh or salt water immersion or spray;
or (v) normal wear and tear on consumable parts
(e.g., batteries).

THE WARRANTIES ABOVE STATE TRIMBLE'S
ENTIRE LIABILITY, AND YOUR EXCLUSIVE
REMEDIES, RELATING TO PERFORMANCE OF
THE PRODUCTS AND SOFTWARE. EXCEPT AS
OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN,
THE PRODUCTS, SOFTWARE, AND
ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTATION AND
MATERIALS ARE PROVIDED “AS-IS” AND
WITHOUT EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY
OF ANY KIND BY EITHER TRIMBLE
NAVIGATION LIMITED OR ANYONE WHO HAS
BEEN INVOLVED IN ITS CREATION,
PRODUCTION, INSTALLATION, OR
DISTRIBUTION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED
TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE, AND
NONINFRINGEMENT. THE STATED EXPRESS
WARRANTIES ARE IN LIEU OF ALL
OBLIGATIONS OR LIABILITIES ON THE PART
OF TRIMBLE ARISING OUT OF, OR IN
CONNECTION WITH, ANY PRODUCTS OR
SOFTWARE. SOME STATES AND
JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS
ON DURATION OR THE EXCLUSION OF AN
IMPLIED WARRANTY, SO THE ABOVE
LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

TRIMBLE NAVIGATION LIMITED IS NOT
RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OPERATION OR
FAILURE OF OPERATION OF GPS SATELLITES
OR THE AVAILABILITY OF GPS SATELLITE
SIGNALS.

FOR THE PRODUCT OR SOFTWARE LICENSE OR
U.S.$25.00. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT
PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, IN NO
EVENT SHALL TRIMBLE OR ITS SUPPLIERS BE
LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
WHATSOEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE
OR LEGAL THEORY RELATING IN ANY WAY TO
THE PRODUCTS, SOFTWARE, AND
ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTATION AND
MATERIALS, (INCLUDING, WITHOUT
LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF
BUSINESS PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION,
LOSS OF BUSINESS INFORMATION, OR ANY
OTHER PECUNIARY LOSS), REGARDLESS OF
WHETHER TRIMBLE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF
THE POSSIBILITY OF ANY SUCH LOSS AND
REGARDLESS OF THE COURSE OF DEALING
WHICH DEVELOPS OR HAS DEVELOPED
BETWEEN YOU AND TRIMBLE. BECAUSE SOME
STATES AND JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW
THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
FOR CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES, THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT
APPLY TO YOU.

Regulations and Safety

The Bluetooth module inside your receiver is a
radio-modem transmitter and receiver.

Regulations regarding the use of the radio­modems vary greatly from country to country. In
some countries, the unit can be used without
obtaining an end-user license. Other countries
require end-user licensing. Consult your local
communications governing agency for licensing
information.

Before operating this receiver, determine if
authorization or a license to operate the unit is
required in your country. It is the responsibility of
the end user to obtain an operator’s permit or
license for this receiver radio-modem for the
location or country of use.

TATEMENT ACCORDING FCC PART 15.19

S

Limitation of Liability

TRIMBLE’S ENTIRE LIABILITY UNDER ANY
PROVISION HEREIN SHALL BE LIMITED TO
THE GREATER OF THE AMOUNT PAID BY YOU

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.

STATEMENT ACCORDING FCC PART 15.21

Modifications not expressly approved by Trimble
could void the user's authority to operate the
equipment.

STATEMENT ACCORDING FCC PART 15.105

This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:

Type Approval

Type approval, or acceptance, covers technical
parameters of the equipment related to emissions

that can cause interference. Type approval is
granted to the manufacturer of the transmission
equipment, independent from the operation or
licensing of the units. Some countries have unique
technical requirements for operation in particular
radio-modem frequency bands. To comply with
those requirements, Trimble may have modified
your equipment to be granted Type approval.
Unauthorized modification of the units voids the
Type approval, the warranty, and the operational
license of the equipment.

Safety

EXPOSURE TO RADIO FREQUENCY
RADIATION

You must maintain a minimum separation distance
of 20 cm (approximately 8 in.) between yourself
and the radiating GSM antenna for this device to
satisfy the RF Exposure requirements of the FCC.

For mobile operation, the maximum gain of the
GSM antenna must not exceed 0 dBi.

– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

– Increase the separation between the equipment
and receiver.

– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is
connected.

-- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.

Contents

1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Related Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Warnings and Cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Technical Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Your Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Trimble R7 GPS Receiver

2 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Use and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

COCOM Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

3 Setting up the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Parts of the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Front panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Rear panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Top panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Bottom panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Setup Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Environmental conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Sources of electrical interference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

General guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Postprocessed Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide v

Contents

Pole-Mounted Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Backpack Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Other System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Radios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Cellular modems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

CompactFlash cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

4 General Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Button Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

LED Behavior. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Logging/Memory LED. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

SV Tracking LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Radio LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Battery 1 LED and Battery 2 LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Starting and Stopping the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Logging Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Logging internally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Logging to a Trimble controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Resetting to Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Formatting a CompactFlash Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Batteries and Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Battery charging and storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Operating with the TSC1/TSCe controller. . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Power output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

5 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Configuring the Receiver in Real Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Configuring the Receiver Using Application Files . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Application Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

vi Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Contents

Special application files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Timed application files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Applying application files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Storing application files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Naming application files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

6 Transferring Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Connecting to the Office Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Transferring Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Transferring Files Directly from a CompactFlash Card . . . . . . . . 66

Deleting Files in the Receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Supported File Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

7 Software Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

GPS Configurator Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Installing GPS Configurator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Configuring the Trimble R7 receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

WinFlash Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Installing WinFlash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Upgrading firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Adding frequencies for the 450 MHz internal radio . . . . . . . 74

Configuring the internal 900 MHz radio setup. . . . . . . . . . 76

8 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Physical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Positioning Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

9 Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide vii

Contents

Resetting to Factory Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Default behavior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Power up settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Logging after power loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Disabling logging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Application files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

10 Cables and Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Port 1, 2, and 3 Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Power/serial data cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Event Marker/1PPS Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

GPS Antennas and Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

11 Event Marker Input and 1PPS Output . . . . . . . . . . 99

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Event Marker Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Enabling and configuring event marker input . . . . . . . . . . 100

1PPS Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

1PPS pulse definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

ASCII time tag definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Enabling and configuring 1PPS output . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Trimble R8 GPS Receiver

12 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Use and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

COCOM Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

13 Setting up the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

viii Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Contents

Parts of the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Front panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Lower housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Setup Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Environmental conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Sources of electrical interference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

General guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Pole-Mounted Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Other System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Radios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Cellular modems and external radios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

14 General Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Button Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

LED Behavior. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

LED flash patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Starting and Stopping the Receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Logging Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Logging internally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Logging to a Trimble controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

Resetting to Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

Batteries and Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Battery charging and storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Power output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

15 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Configuring the Receiver in Real Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Configuring the Receiver Using Application Files . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Application Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Special application files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide ix

Contents

Applying application files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Storing application files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Naming application files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

16 Software Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

GPS Configurator Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Installing GPS Configurator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Configuring the Trimble R8 receiver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

WinFlash Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Installing WinFlash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Upgrading firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Adding frequencies for the 450 MHz internal radio . . . . . . . 144

Configuring the internal 900 MHz radio setup. . . . . . . . . . 146

Configuring the internal transceiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

17 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

Physical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

Positioning Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

18 Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Resetting to Factory Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

Default behavior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

Power up settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

19 Cables and Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

Port 1 and 2 Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

Power/Serial Data Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

x Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

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Appendixes

Trimble R7 / Trimble R8

A NMEA-0183 Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

NMEA-0183 Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

Common Message Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172

Message values. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172

NMEA Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

B RTCM Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

RTCM Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190

Message Scheduling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191

C Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide xi

Contents

xii Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

CHAPTER

1

Introduction 1

Welcome to the Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide. This
manual describes how to install, set up, and use a Trimble® R7 or
Trimble R8 GPS receiver.

Even if you have used other Global Positioning System (GPS)
products before, Trimble recommends that you spend some time
reading this manual to learn about the special features of this product.

If you are not familiar with GPS, visit our website for an interactive
look at Trimble and GPS at:

• www.trimble.com

Trimble assumes that you are familiar with the Microsoft®
Windows® operating system and know how to use a mouse, select
options from menus and dialogs, make selections from lists, and refer
to online help.

1.1 Related Information

An electronic copy of this manual is available in portable document
format (PDF) on the Trimble R7, Trimble R8, 5700, and 5800 GPS
Receiver CD. Use Adobe Reader to view the contents of this file.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 1

1 Introduction

Other sources of related information are:

• Release notes – the release notes describe new features of the
product, information not included in the manual, and any
changes to the manual. They are provided as a PDF on the CD.
Use Adobe Reader to view the contents of the release notes.

• Registration – register your receiver to automatically receive
e-mail notifications of Trimble R7 receiver firmware upgrades
and new functionality. To register, do one of the following:

–Run the Trimble R7, Trimble R8, 5700, and 5800 GPS

Receiver CD.

– Register electronically via the internet by completing the

form and submitting.

– Print the registration form that is on the CD, fill it in, and

fax or mail it to the address shown.

Contact your local Trimble Dealer for more information about
the support agreement contracts for software and firmware, and
an extended warranty program for hardware.

• Trimble training courses – consider a training course to help
you use your GPS system to its fullest potential. For more
information, visit the Trimble website at
www.trimble.com/training.html

1.2 Warnings and Cautions

Always follow the instructions that accompany a warning or a caution.

C

C

2 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

WARNING – Alerts you to a situation that is likely to cause serious

personal injury, irreparable damage to equipment, or unrecoverable data
loss.

Caution – Alerts you to a hazard or an unsafe practice that could cause
injury or property damage.

1.3 Technical Assistance

If you have a problem and cannot find the information you need in the
product documentation, contact your local Distributor. Alternatively,
request technical support using the Trimble website at:

• www.trimble.com/support.html

1.4 You r Comm ents

Your feedback about the supporting documentation helps us to
improve it with each revision. E-mail your comments to

[e-mail].

Introduction 1

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 3

1 Introduction

4 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

SECTION

I

ITRIMBLE R7 GPS RECEIVER

CHAPTER

2

Overview 2

In this chapter:

Q Introduction

Q Features

Q Use and Care

Q COCOM Limits

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 7

2 Overview

2.1 Introduction

Trimble R7 Operation

2.2 Features

This chapter introduces the Trimble R7 GPS receiver. This receiver is
designed for GPS surveying applications. The receiver features
one-touch logging for ease of use, and five LEDs that let you monitor
the survey in progress and the available battery capacity.

The Trimble R7 tracks GPS satellites on both the L1 and L2
frequencies to provide precise position data for land survey
applications. The receiver records GPS data on an internal
CompactFlash card and makes all data available through serial or USB
ports.

You can use the Trimble R7 alone by logging data internally, or as part
of the GPS Total Station® system, which logs GPS data from the
receiver to a Trimble controller running the Trimble Survey
Controller™ or Trimble Survey Pro™ software.

The receiver provides the following features:

• Trimble R-track technology, which allows the receiver to track
the L2 Civil signal (L2C)

• Centimeter-accuracy real-time positioning with RTK/OTF data,
and up to 10 Hz position updates

• Submeter-accuracy real-time positioning using pseudorange
corrections

• Adaptive dual-frequency RTK engine

• WAAS/EGNOS capability (Wide Area Augmentation
System/European Geo-Stationary Navigation System)

• Automatic OTF (on-the-fly) initialization while moving

• 1PPS (One Pulse Per Second) output

• Dual event-marker input

8 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

• USB port for data transfer

• Type I CompactFlash card for data storage

Overview 2

• Internal charging of batteries (no external battery charger
required)

• Three RS-232 serial ports for:

–NMEA output

– RTCM SC-104 input and output

– Trimble Format (CMR) input and output

• Two TNC ports for connecting to the GPS and radio antennas

2.3 Use and Care

The Trimble R7 is designed to withstand the rough treatment that
typically occurs in the field. However, the receiver is a high-precision
electronic instrument and should be treated with reasonable care.

C WARNING – Operating or storing the receiver outside the specified

temperature range can damage it. For more information, see Physical
specifications, page 80.

High-power signals from a nearby radio or radar transmitter can
overwhelm the receiver circuits. This does not harm the instrument,
but it can prevent the receiver electronics from functioning correctly.
Avoid using the receiver within 400 meters of powerful radar,
television, or other transmitters. Low-power transmitters such as those
used in cellphones and two-way radios normally do not interfere with
receiver operations.

Trimble R7 Operation

For more information, contact your local Trimble distributor.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 9

2 Overview

2.4 COCOM Limits

Trimble R7 Operation

The U.S. Department of Commerce requires that all exportable GPS
products contain performance limitations so that they cannot be used
in a manner that could threaten the security of the United States. The
following limitations are implemented on the Trimble R7 receiver.

Immediate access to satellite measurements and navigation results is
disabled when the receiver’s velocity is computed to be greater than
1000 knots, or its altitude is computed to be above 18,000 meters. The
receiver continuously resets until the COCOM situation is cleared.

10 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

CHAPTER

3

Setting up the Receiver 3

In this chapter:

Q Introduction

Q Parts of the Receiver

Q Setup Guidelines

Q Postprocessed Setup

Q Pole-mounted Setup

Q Backpack Setup

Q Other System Components

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 11

3 Setting up the Receiver

3.1 Introduction

Trimble R7 Operation

3.2 Parts of the Receiver

This chapter provides general setup information, connection
information, and cabling diagrams for the most common uses of the
Trimble R7 receiver.

All operating controls, ports, and connectors on the receiver are
located on its four main panels, as shown in Figure 3.1. This section
provides a brief overview of the features of each of these panels.

To p
panel

Front
panel

Bottom
panel

Figure 3.1 Panels on the Trimble R7 receiver

12 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Rear
panel

32.1 Front panel

Figure 3.2 shows the front panel of the Trimble R7. This panel
contains the five indicator LEDs, the two buttons, and the catch for the
CompactFlash/USB door.

Setting up the Receiver 3

Buttons

t

2

3

Trimble R7 Operation

CompactFlash/
USB door catch

Figure 3.2 Front panel

Indicator LEDs

The two buttons control data logging, data management, power, and
settings. For more information, see Button Functions, page 38.

The indicator LEDs show the status of logging, power, satellite
tracking, and radio reception. For more information, see LED
Behavior, page 39.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 13

3 Setting up the Receiver

32.2 Rear panel

Trimble R7 Operation

Figure 3.3 shows the rear panel of the Trimble R7. This panel contains
a slot for attaching the receiver catch lock, and the catches for the two
battery compartments on the bottom panel. The catch lock should
already be attached to your receiver.

Receiver
catch lock

Figure 3.3 Rear panel

Battery
compartment
catches

To mount the receiver on a pole, you need to attach the receiver
bracket to the pole and insert the catch lock into the bracket. For more
information, see Pole-Mounted Setup, page 22.

14 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

32.3 Top panel

Figure 3.4 shows the top panel of the Trimble R7. This panel contains
the three power/serial data ports and (TNC) ports for GPS and radio
antenna connections.

Setting up the Receiver 3

Trimble R7 Operation

Power/serial data ports

123

GPS antenna Radio antenna

Figure 3.4 Top panel

TNC ports

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 15

3 Setting up the Receiver

Each port on the top panel is marked with an icon to indicate its main
function.

Trimble R7 Operation

Table 3.1 Trimble R7 receiver ports

Icon Name Connections

Port 1 Trimble controller, event marker, or computer

Port 2 Power in, computer, 1PPS, or event marker

Port 3 External radio, power in

GPS GPS antenna

RADIO Radio communications antenna

The power/serial data ports are all 7 pin 0-shell Lemo connectors.
Both Port 2 and Port 3 can accept external power. For information on
default port settings, see Default Settings, page 85. For information on
connector pinouts, see Cables and Connectors, page 91.

The TNC port connectors are color-coded for easy system setup.
Connect the yellow GPS antenna cable to the yellow TNC port marked
GPS, and connect the blue Range Pole antenna (RPA) cable to the blue
TNC connector marked RADIO. For more information on connecting
the Trimble R7 system, see the following sections in this chapter.

16 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

32.4 Bottom panel

Figure 3.5 shows the bottom panel of the Trimble R7. This panel
contains the USB port, the CompactFlash port, and the compartments
for the two internal batteries.

Internal battery

Setting up the Receiver 3

Trimble R7 Operation

CompactFlash/
USB door

CompactFlash port

USB port

C

Internal battery

compartment

Figure 3.5 Bottom panel

The CompactFlash/USB door conceals the CompactFlash port and
USB port. To open the door, push the catch on the front panel down.

WARNING – When no USB cable is connected, or when using the
receiver in a harsh environment, keep this door closed to keep moisture,
dust, and dirt out of the ports. The temperature rating of the receiver
applies only when all doors on the receiver are closed.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 17

3 Setting up the Receiver

3.3 Setup Guidelines

Trimble R7 Operation

33.1 Environmental conditions

33.2 Sources of electrical interference

Consider the following guidelines when setting up the Trimble R7.

Although the Trimble R7 has a waterproof housing, reasonable care
should be taken to keep the unit dry. Avoid exposure to extreme
environmental conditions, including:

• Water

• Heat greater than 65° C (149° F)

• Cold less than –40° C (–40° F)

• Corrosive fluids and gases

Avoiding these conditions improves the receiver performance and
long-term reliability.

Avoid the following sources of electrical and magnetic noise:

• Gasoline engines (spark plugs)

• Televisions and PC monitors

• Alternators and generators

• Electric motors

• Equipment with DC-to-AC converters

• Fluorescent lights

• Switching power supplies

18 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

33.3 General guidelines

The following guidelines apply whenever you set up your receiver for
operation:

• When plugging in a Lemo cable, make sure that the red dots on
the receiver port and the cable connector line up. Never use
force to plug cables in, as this may damage the connector pins.

• When disconnecting a Lemo cable, grasp the cable by the
sliding collar or lanyard and pull the cable connector straight
out of the port. Do not twist the connector or pull on the cable
itself.

• To securely connect a TNC cable, align the cable connector
with the receiver receptacle and thread the cable connector onto
the receptacle until snug.

• Insert the internal batteries with the battery contacts facing the
CompactFlash/USB door. The undersides of the batteries have a
center groove for alignment when being inserted into the
receiver.

Setting up the Receiver 3

Trimble R7 Operation

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 19

3 Setting up the Receiver

3.4 Postprocessed Setup

For a postprocessed survey, you only need:

Trimble R7 Operation

• the Trimble R7 receiver

• a Zephyr™ or Zephyr Geodetic antenna

• a GPS antenna cable

Other equipment, as described below, is optional.

To set up the Trimble R7 for a postprocessed survey:

1. Set up the tripod with the tribrach and antenna adapter over the
survey mark.

Instead of a tripod, you can use a range pole with a bipod.
However, Trimble recommends that you use a tripod for greater
stability.

2. Mount the antenna on the tribrach adapter.

3. Use the tripod clip to hang the receiver on the tripod.

4. Connect the yellow GPS antenna cable to the Zephyr antenna.

5. Connect the other end of the GPS antenna cable to the yellow
TNC port on the receiver.

6. If external power is required, connect a battery with a 0-shell
Lemo connection to Port 2 or Port 3 on the receiver.

20 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Setting up the Receiver 3

Figure 3.6 shows the Trimble R7 receiver postprocessed setup.

Trimble R7 Operation

Figure 3.6 Postprocessed setup

Note – Instead of hanging the receiver on the tripod, you can place the
receiver in its base case. Run the antenna cable out of the portal in the
side of the base case to the antenna so that the case can stay closed
while the receiver is running.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 21

3 Setting up the Receiver

3.1 Pole-Mounted Setup

To mount the Trimble R7 on a pole, you need to do the following:

Trimble R7 Operation

1. Mount the eRTK™ Range Pole antenna (RPA).

2. Mount the receiver.

3. Mount the Trimble controller.

This section provides detailed instructions on each of these three steps.

Mounting the Range Pole antenna (RPA)

To mount the RPA on the pole:

1. Install the RPA bracket 7.5 cm (3") from the pole top by placing
the two pieces together and securing with screws. If you are
using a 1" diameter pole, place the bracket inserts inside the
bracket before securing.

Note – You can use a quarter-wave whip (“rubber duck”)
antenna attached directly to the receiver instead of the RPA.

2. Connect the yellow TNC-to-TNC GPS cable and run it through
the RPA bracket clips where it is labeled on the bracket. Make
sure that the right-angle connector is at the top.

Note – The cable must be routed inside the RPA, through the
bracket, or it will affect the RPA radio reception performance.

3. Align the TNC connector on the RPA with the GPS antenna
cable on the bracket, and while feeding the cable through the
RPA, slide the RPA onto the bracket until it clicks.

22 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Setting up the Receiver 3

Figure 2.7 shows the Trimble R7 receiver pole-mounted setup.

RPA

TNC port
(aligned over
antenna cable)

Pole

GPS antenna
cable

RPA
bracket

Trimble R7 Operation

Figure 3.7 RPA and bracket

4. Mount the Zephyr antenna on the range pole.

5. Connect the GPS antenna cable. Make sure that the GPS cable
is not hanging over the top of the RPA.

6. Connect the blue TNC-to-TNC radio cable to the RPA.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 23

3 Setting up the Receiver

Mounting the Trimble R7 receiver

To mount the receiver on the pole:

Trimble R7 Operation

1. Attach the receiver bracket to the pole:

a. Place the bracket against the pole, approximately 0.5 m

from the ground.

Note – If you are using a 1" diameter pole, flip the black
insert around inside the bracket, as shown in Figure 3.8.

1

1

/

" pole

4

Bracket insert Bracket

1" pole

Figure 3.8 Receiver bracket insert

b. Close the gates of the bracket around the pole.

c. Seat the base of the clip lock in the opposite gate.

24 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Setting up the Receiver 3

d. Lock the clip lock.

If the clip lock is too tight to be locked, turn it one or two
turns counterclockwise and try again. If it is too loose, turn
it one or two turns clockwise and try to lock it again.

2. Mount the receiver on the bracket:

a. Pull the bracket side locks in towards the pole.

b. Set the receiver catch lock in the bracket.

c. Holding the receiver in the bracket, pull the side locks back

to their original positions, as shown in Figure 3.9.

Gates

Trimble R7 Operation

Clip lock

Side locks

Figure 3.9 Trimble R7 receiver bracket

3. Connect the blue TNC radio communications cable to the blue
TNC port on the receiver. If necessary, adjust the position of the
receiver to remove cable slack.

4. Connect the yellow TNC GPS antenna cable to the yellow TNC
port on the receiver. If necessary, adjust the position of the
receiver to remove cable slack.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 25

3 Setting up the Receiver

Mounting the TSC1/TSCe controller

To mount the TSC1™/TSCe™ controller on the pole:

Trimble R7 Operation

1. Mount the controller bracket on the pole:

a. Place the bracket against the pole at a comfortable height.

b. Rotate the clamping screw on the bracket pole until tight.

c. Place the controller into the cradle assembly and tighten

the clamping mechanism.

d. Any cables running down the pole should be run through

the machined groove on the inside of the controller
bracket.

e. Position the controller in the preferred position for

operation by pressing the spring-loaded release button on
the cradle, pulling the assembly outward, and rotating the
cradle assembly to the desired angle. Reseat the cradle in
the proper position by lining up the alignment pins and
pushing inward until the release button locks.

2. Connect one end of the 2 ft 0-shell to 0-shell Lemo cable to the
TSC1/TSCe controller.

3. Connect the other end of the Lemo cable to Port 1 on the
receiver.

4. Place the hand grip below the controller bracket (or above it,
depending on the position of the bracket), with the cables
running through the grip.

5. Secure any loose cables, using the velcro cable ties.

26 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Figure 2.10 shows the pole-mounted setup.

Setting up the Receiver 3

Zephyr antenna

RPA

Velc ro t ie

TSC1 / TSCe bracket

Hand grip

Trimble R7 Operation

Figure 3.10 Pole-mounted setup

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 27

3 Setting up the Receiver

3.1 Backpack Setup

Trimble R7 Operation

Both the whip and RPA antennae are suitable for use in a backpack.
The RPA is installed in the same manner as for the pole-mounted setup
(see Pole-Mounted Setup, page 22).

B

Tip – The RPA is tuned for operation with the GPS antenna cable running
through it. Operating it from a backpack may reduce its operating range.
Trimble recommends that you use the whip antenna.

To set up the Trimble R7 for use in a backpack:

1. Insert the receiver into the backpack with the ports on the top
panel facing upwards and the front panel facing outwards.
Secure the receiver around the middle with the velcro strap.

2. Attach the Zephyr™ antenna to a range pole.

3. Attach the whip antenna mount to one of the fittings on the top
of the backpack.

4. The backpack has a feedthrough on both sides at the top and on
both sides near the bottom to allow cables to be positioned out
of the way of the main zipper. Run the radio communications
cable through at the top, and connect it to the blue TNC port on
the receiver.

5. Connect the straight end of the yellow GPS cable to the yellow
TNC port on the receiver.

6. Run the right-angle connector on the yellow GPS cable through
the top or side slot on the backpack, and connect it to the
Zephyr antenna.

7. Connect one end of the 6 ft 0-shell to 0-shell cable to Port 1 on
the receiver.

8. Run the 0-shell cable through the side slot of the backpack and
connect it to the TSC1/TSCe controller.

28 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Figure 3.11 shows the backpack setup.

Setting up the Receiver 3

Zephyr antenna

TSC1/TSCe bracket

Whip antenna

Trimble R7 Operation

Figure 3.11 Backpack setup

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 29

3 Setting up the Receiver

3.1 Other System Components

Trimble R7 Operation

31.1 Radios

This section describes optional components that you can use with the
Trimble R7 receiver.

Radios are the most common data link for Real-Time Kinematic
(RTK) surveying. The Trimble R7 receiver is available with an
optional internal radio in either the 450 or 900 MHz UHF bands. You
can also connect an external radio to Port 3, whether the internal radio
is installed or not.

The Trimble R7 supports the following Trimble base radios when
using the internal receiver radio:

•TRIMMARK™ 3

• TRIMMARK IIe

• TRIMTALK™ 450S

• SiteNet™ 450

• SiteNet 900

• Trimble R8 internal transmitter (base)

30 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Setting up the Receiver 3

Internal Radio Setup

You can configure the Trimble R7 optional internal radio using any of
the following:

• the GPS Configurator software

• the WinFlash software

• the Trimble Survey Controller software

For more information, refer to the GPS Configurator Help, the
WinFlash Help, or the Trimble Survey Controller User Guide.

By default, the internal UHF radio has only a few frequencies
installed. Use WinFlash to configure additional frequencies. For more
information, see Adding frequencies for the 450 MHz internal radio,
page 74.

External Radio Setup

To use an external radio with the Trimble R7 receiver, you need an
external power source for the radio.

Trimble R7 Operation

To set up a Trimble R7 using an external radio:

1. Connect one end of the yellow GPS antenna cable to the yellow
TNC port on the receiver.

2. Connect the other end of the GPS antenna cable to a Zephyr or
Zephyr Geodetic antenna.

3. Connect the external radio to Port 3 on the receiver.

4. Connect a radio antenna to the external radio.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 31

3 Setting up the Receiver

Trimble R7 Operation

Figure 3.12 shows a TRIMMARK 3 connected to a Trimble R7
receiver.

To antenna

To power supply

Figure 3.12 Connecting an external radio

5. Connect an external power source to Port 2 on the receiver.

Note – External rover radios must have their own power source
because the internal Lithium-Ion batteries do not supply enough
voltage. Alternatively, supply external power to port 2 of the
receiver, and enable power out on port 3.
Base radios must have their own power source because of their
high power consumption.

32 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Setting up the Receiver 3

Alternatively, you can apply external power directly to the
radio, if it supports it.

You can use a 10 Ah battery, a 6 Ah battery, or camcorder
batteries. The choice of power supply depends on the
application, and whether you are using the radio as a reference
or rover radio. For more information about the power
capabilities of the Trimble R7, see Batteries and Power,
page 45.

6. Configure the external radio using Trimble Survey Controller.
Alternatively, you can configure a TRIMMARK 3 radio using
WinFlash or the configuration software supplied with the radio.

For more information, refer to the Trimble Survey Controller
User Guide or the appropriate Help.

7. Set up any other equipment as required, depending on whether
you are using the radio as a reference or a rover radio.

30.1 Cellular modems

You can use a cellular modem instead of a radio as your data
communications link. Cellular modems and other radio links can be
used to extend the limits of your surveys.

To connect a cellular modem to a Trimble R7 receiver, you need the
following:

Trimble R7 Operation

• A Trimble R7 receiver

• A custom-designed cellular modem, or a cellphone that can
transmit and receive data

• Serial (cellphone to DB9) cable (supplied with the cellular
modem or phone)

• Trimble DB9 to 0-shell Lemo cable

Note – This cable is suitable only if flow control can be disabled
on the cellular modem. If the cellular modem does not support
this functionality, a special cable is required. For more

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 33

3 Setting up the Receiver

Trimble R7 Operation

information, refer to the document Using Cellular and CDPD
Modems for RTK, which is available from your local Trimble
Distributor.

Figure 3.13 shows the components required to connect a cellphone to
a Trimble R7 receiver.

DB9 to Lemo cable

Serial cable

Figure 3.13 Connecting a cellphone

For more information on using a cellular modem as a data link, refer to
the Trimble Survey Controller User Guide.

34 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

30.2 Antennas

The Trimble R7 receiver should normally be used with a Zephyr or
Zephyr Geodetic antenna. These antennas have been designed
specifically for use with the Trimble R7.

Use Figure 3.14 as a guide for measuring the height of the Zephyr and
Zephyr Geodetic antennas. The Zephyr antenna is designed to be
measured to the top of the notch. The Zephyr Geodetic (shown) has
been designed to be measured to the bottom of the notch.

Setting up the Receiver 3

Trimble R7 Operation

1.520

1.515

1.510

1.505

Figure 3.14 Measuring antenna height

Older models of antennas, such as the Choke Ring or
Micro-Centered™ L1/L2 antennas, need more power to operate than
the Zephyr models. To configure the receiver to output more power on
the antenna port, select the correct antenna type in GPS Configurator,
or through the Trimble controller. For information on how to do this,
contact your local Trimble Service Provider.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 35

3 Setting up the Receiver

30.3 CompactFlash cards

Trimble R7 Operation

The Trimble R7 logs data internally on a CompactFlash card.
However, it only support the Type I CompactFlash card. Trimble
recommends that you use an industrial-rated CompactFlash card, as
commercial cards have a limited operating temperature range.

Before logging data to a CompactFlash card, format the card to ensure
the integrity of the file system. To format the card, insert it in the
receiver and then hold down p for 30 seconds.

Note – Make sure that you format your CompactFlash card in the
receiver. This prevents data on the card from being corrupted if the
card is removed while data is being logged. Formatting the card in
your PC may cause data corruption, or loss of data.

When inserting the card, make sure that it slides into the card slot
properly.

C

36 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

WARNING –

– The Trimble R7 allows for a maximum of 512 files on the CompactFlash
card, regardless of the card’s capacity. The file names must be in 8.3
format, otherwise files copied to the CompactFlash card may cause data
corruption or loss of data when logging.
– If the card does not seat into the pins correctly, do not use force or you
may damage the pins. Remove the card and reinsert it carefully.

CHAPTER

4

General Operation 4

In this chapter:

Q Introduction

Q Button Functions

Q LED Behavior

Q Starting and Stopping the Receiver

Q Logging Data

Q Resetting to Defaults

Q Formatting a CompactFlash Card

Q Batteries and Power

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 37

4 General Operation

4.1 Introduction

Trimble R7 Operation

All the controls that you need for general operation of the Trimble R7
receiver are located on the front panel, as shown in Figure 4.1.

Data button

t

2

SV Tracking

LED

Logging/

Memory LED

Figure 4.1 Controls on the front panel of the Trimble R7

Radio/Event
Marker LED

Battery LEDs

Power button

3

For more information about other panels of the Trimble R7, see Parts
of the Receiver, page 12.

4.2 Button Functions

The Trimble R7 has only two buttons: a Power button, represented in
this manual by p, and a Data button, represented by d.

Use p to switch the receiver on or off, and to perform data
management functions such as deleting files or resetting the receiver.

38 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

General Operation 4

Use d to start or stop logging. This button is only effective when the
receiver is switched on and has completed any power-up and
initialization tasks.

Table 4.1 describes the main functions of the two buttons.

Table 4.1 Button functions

Action Power button Data button

Turn the receiver on Press

Turn the receiver off Hold for 2 seconds

Start logging data internally Press

Stop logging data internally Hold for 2 seconds

Delete the ephemeris file Hold for 15 seconds

Reset the receiver to factory defaults Hold for 15 seconds

Delete application files Hold for 30 seconds

Format the CompactFlash card Hold for 30 seconds

Note – The term “press” indicates that you should press the button
and release it immediately. The term “hold” indicates that you should
press the button and hold it down until the time indicated has elapsed.

Trimble R7 Operation

4.3 LED Behavior

The five LEDs on the top panel of the receiver indicate various
operating conditions. Generally, a lit or slowly flashing LED indicates
normal operation, an LED that is flashing quickly indicates a
condition that may require attention, and an unlit LED indicates that
no operation is occurring. The following table defines each possible
LED state.

The term … means that the LED …

Flash is lit briefly every 3 seconds

Slow flash alternates slowly between being lit and unlit

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 39

4 General Operation

Trimble R7 Operation

43.1 Logging/Memory LED

The term … means that the LED …

Fast flash alternates rapidly between being lit and unlit

On is lit

Off is unlit

The yellow Logging/Memory LED below the d button indicates the
status of data logging and memory usage.

Behavior Meaning

On Data is being logged.

Slow flash Enough FastStatic data has been logged. Alternatively, if

the red SV Tracking LED is on solid at the same time, the
receiver is in Monitor mode, and is checking for new
firmware to install.

Fast flash Data is being logged but memory is low.

Flash The receiver is in Sleep mode, and will wake up five

minutes before the scheduled start time of a timed
application file.

Off Data is not being logged, or the CompactFlash card is

full.

43.2 SV Tracking LED

The red SV Tracking LED below the SV icon indicates the status
of satellite tracking.

Behavior Meaning

Slow flash Tracking four or more satellites.

Fast flash Tracking three or fewer satellites.

Off Not tracking any satellites.

On The receiver is in Monitor mode, and is checking for new

firmware to install.

40 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

43.3 Radio LED

The green Radio LED below the Radio icon indicates the status
of data input and output.

Behavior Meaning

Slow flash A data packet or event marker has been received.

43.4 Battery 1 LED and Battery 2 LED

The Battery LEDs inside the two Battery icons indicate the status
of the two internal batteries, or the power sources connected on Ports 2
and 3.

By default, each battery LED indicates the status of the external power
source on the corresponding port. If no external source is detected,
each LED indicates the status of an internal battery. The color of the
LED indicates whether the power source is currently in use (green) or
is on standby (yellow).

Color Meaning Behavior Meaning

Green Power source

is in use

Yellow Power source

is on standby

On Healthy

Fast flash Low power

Off No power source is present

On Healthy

Fast flash Low power

Flash Dead

Off No power source is present

General Operation 4

Trimble R7 Operation

4.4 Starting and Stopping the Receiver

To turn on the receiver, press p.

To turn off the receiver, hold down p for two seconds.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 41

4 General Operation

4.5 Logging Data

Trimble R7 Operation

45.1 Logging internally

You can log data to the CompactFlash card in the receiver, or to the
survey device.

The Trimble R7 receiver logs GPS data internally on a CompactFlash
card. You can then use the Trimble Data Transfer utility to transfer
logged data files to your office computer. The transferred files are in
Trimble DAT (.dat) format.

C

WARNING – The Trimble R7 allows for a maximum of 512 files on the
CompactFlash card, regardless of the card’s capacity. The file names
must be in 8.3 format, otherwise files copied to the CompactFlash card
may cause data corruption or loss of data when logging.

Data is logged using the current logging settings configured in the
receiver. Data files logged internally are named automatically.

To begin internal logging, press d. The Logging/Memory LED lights
up.

To stop logging, hold down d for at least two seconds. The
Logging/Memory LED turns off.

Note – When the CompactFlash card is full, the receiver stops logging
data, and the Logging/Memory LED switches off. Existing data files
are not overwritten.

Approximate storage requirements for different logging rates are
shown in Table 4.2. The values shown are for a one-hour logging
session with six satellites visible.

Table 4.2 Storage requirements

Logging rate Memory required

10 Hz 2,588 KB

1Hz 335 KB

42 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Table 4.2 Storage requirements (continued)

Logging rate Memory required

5 seconds 87 KB

15 seconds 37 KB

Note – If power is lost, or the CompactFlash card is removed while
logging, the file system is designed so that a maximum of ten seconds
of data will be lost, regardless of the logging rate. To ensure that this
behavior occurs, use GPS Configurator to perform a quick format of
the CompactFlash card before logging data to the card for the first
time.

45.2 Logging to a Trimble controller

When the Trimble R7 receiver is connected to a Trimble controller,
you can log GPS data from the receiver to the controller, or to a PC
card inserted in the controller. When you use a Trimble controller, you
do not use the receiver’s controls. Instead, you use the controller
functions to set logging options, specify filenames, and control when
logging occurs.

General Operation 4

Trimble R7 Operation

Data is stored in job files, which can be transferred to your office
computer using Trimble’s Data Transfer utility.

For more information on logging data from a receiver using a Trimble
controller refer, to the user guide for your particular controller.

4.6 Resetting to Defaults

To reset the receiver to its factory default settings, hold down p for at
least 15 seconds.

C

WARNING – Make sure that you do not hold down p for more than 30
seconds. After 30 seconds, any application files stored in the receiver are
deleted and the CompactFlash card is reformatted.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 43

4 General Operation

Resetting the receiver to its factory defaults also deletes any ephemeris
file in the receiver.

Trimble R7 Operation

4.7 Formatting a CompactFlash Card

C

For more information, see Chapter 9, Default Settings.

To format a CompactFlash card for use in a Trimble R7 receiver, insert
the card in the CompactFlash port, then hold down p for at least 30
seconds. After 15 seconds, the receiver is reset to its factory defaults,
and any ephemeris file is deleted. After 30 seconds, any files stored on
the card are deleted and the CompactFlash card is reformatted.

WARNING – Formatting a CompactFlash card while it is in the receiver
deletes all the data files on the card and all the application files in the
receiver.

Note – When you use p to format the CompactFlash card, a quick
format is performed. A quick format reformats the card for use with
the Trimble R7 receiver and deletes all data on the card. A full format
checks the card for errors or bad sectors, and is only necessary if the
card is corrupted. To perform a full format, use GPS Configurator. For
more information, see GPS Configurator Software, page 70.

44 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

4.8 Batteries and Power

General Operation 4

C

WARNING – Do not damage the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery. A
damaged battery can cause an explosion or fire, and can result in
personal injury and/or property damage.
To prevent injury or damage:
– Do not use or charge the battery if it appears to be damaged. Signs of
damage include, but are not limited to, discoloration, warping, and leaking
battery fluid.
– Do not expose the battery to fire, high temperature, or direct sunlight.
– Do not immerse the battery in water.
– Do not use or store the battery inside a vehicle during hot weather.
– Do not drop or puncture the battery.
– Do not open the battery or short-circuit its contacts.

The Trimble R7 can be powered either by its two internal batteries or
by an external power source connected to Port 2 or Port 3. The charge
provided by the internal batteries depends on the type of survey and
operating conditions. Typically, one battery provides about 3.5 hours
of power during an RTK survey using the internal radio, and about
5 hours during a survey without the internal radio.

The external power source is always used in preference to the internal
batteries. When there is no external power source connected, or if the
external power supply fails, the internal batteries are used. The
internal batteries are drained in turn, and the receiver automatically
switches to the full battery when the first battery is drained.

Trimble R7 Operation

If no external power is supplied and both internal batteries are drained,
none of the data that you have logged is lost. When internal or external
power is restored, the receiver restarts in the same state as when power
was lost. For example, if the receiver was logging data, the data file is
not corrupted, and when power is restored the receiver resumes
logging with the same settings as before.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 45

4 General Operation

Trimble R7 Operation

The power supply that is supplied with the Trimble R7 receiver
charges the receiver internal batteries while they are still in the
receiver. To do this, connect the power supply to the power/serial data
cable, connect the cable to Port 2 on the receiver, and connect the
power supply to an AC power source, as shown in Figure 4.2.

Power/serial data cable

2

3

To AC
power supply

Figure 4.2 Charging the batteries

The two internal batteries take approximately eight hours to charge.
They are charged individually, so each battery takes approximately
four hours to charge. The internal batteries start charging whenever an
external power supply of greater than 15 V is detected.

46 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

General Operation 4

C

WARNING – Avoid contact with the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery if it
appears to be leaking. Battery fluid is corrosive, and contact with it can
result in personal injury and/or property damage.
To prevent injury or damage:
– If the battery leaks, avoid contact with the battery fluid.
– If battery fluid gets into your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes with
clean water and seek medical attention. Do not rub your eyes!
– If battery fluid gets onto your skin or clothing, immediately use clean
water to wash off the battery fluid.

Each receiver in your system is supplied with two internal Lithium-ion
battery packs. To charge both sets of batteries, connect both receivers
to power supplies as shown in Figure 3.2.

48.1 Battery charging and storage

All battery types discharge over time when they are not being used.
Batteries also discharge faster in colder temperatures. If a Lithium-ion
battery is to be stored for long periods of time, make sure it is fully
charged before storing and re-charged at least every three months.

C

WARNING – Charge and use the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery only in
strict accordance with the instructions. Charging or using the battery in
unauthorized equipment can cause an explosion or fire, and can result in
personal injury and/or equipment damage.
To prevent injury or damage:
– Do not charge or use the battery if it appears to be damaged or leaking.
– Charge the Lithium-ion battery only in a Trimble product that is specified
to charge it. Be sure to follow all instructions that are provided with the
battery charger.
– Discontinue charging a battery that gives off extreme heat or a burning
odor.
– Use the battery only in Trimble equipment that is specified to use it.
– Use the battery only for its intended use and according to the
instructions in the product documentation.

Trimble R7 Operation

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 47

4 General Operation

Trimble R7 Operation

Charging the Lithium-ion battery

The rechargeable Lithium-ion battery is supplied partially charged.
Charge the battery completely before using it for the first time. If the
battery has been stored for longer than six months, charge it before
use.

To protect the battery from deep discharge (5 volts or less), the
Trimble R7 system is designed to switch batteries or cease drawing
power when the battery pack discharges to 5.9 volts.

A battery that has reached the deep discharge level cannot be
recharged and must be replaced. The following recommendations
provide optimal performance and extend the life of your batteries:

• Fully charge all new batteries prior to use.

• Do not allow the batteries to discharge below 5 volts.

• Keep all batteries on continuous charge when not in use.
Batteries may be kept on charge indefinitely without damage to
the receiver or batteries.

• Do not store batteries in the receiver or external charger unless
power is applied.

• If you must store the batteries, fully charge them before storing
and then recharge them at least every three months.

Disposing of the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery

Discharge the Lithium-ion battery before disposing of it. When
disposing of the battery, be sure to do so in an environmentally
sensitive manner. Adhere to any local and national regulations
concerning battery disposal or recycling.

48.2 Operating with the TSC1/TSCe controller

If the receiver is being powered by its internal batteries, it does not
supply power to the TSC1/TSCe controller when they are connected.
However, the TSC1/TSCe batteries and the Trimble R7 batteries can

48 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

General Operation 4

be charged at the same time from the same power supply. To charge
both sets of batteries, use two standard power/serial data cables to
connect the TSC1/TSCe controller and the receiver to a power supply,
as shown in Figure 4.3.

Power/serial data cables

2

3

Trimble R7 Operation

To AC
power supply

Figure 4.3 Charging receiver and TSC1/TSCe batteries

48.3 Power output

If the receiver is being supplied with power from an external source,
power is automatically output on Port 1. The output voltage is
approximately 0.5 V less than the input voltage. Port 1 outputs a
maximum voltage of 20 V, even if the input voltage is higher.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 49

4 General Operation

Trimble R7 Operation

48.4 Firmware

You can use GPS Configurator or Trimble Survey Controller to enable
power output on Port 3. Port 3 can be enabled for power output
regardless of whether power is supplied internally or externally.

On Port 3, the output voltage is approximately 0.5 V less than the
input voltage. For example, if power is being supplied from the
internal Lithium ion batteries, the maximum battery voltage is 8.4 V,
so the maximum output voltage is 7.9 V.

Note – When you start a survey using Trimble Survey Controller, and
you are using an external radio, the software automatically enables
power output on Port 3.

A receiver’s firmware is the program inside the receiver that makes the
receiver run and controls the hardware. When you need to upgrade the
firmware for your Trimble R7 receiver, Trimble recommends that you
use WinFlash. For more information, see WinFlash Software, page 71.

C

50 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

WARNING – Upgrading the firmware deletes all application files on the

Trimble R7 receiver.

An alternative method of upgrading your firmware is to copy the .elf
file directly to the CompactFlash card from your computer.

To do this:

1. Connect the CompactFlash card to your desktop computer.

2. Using Windows Explorer, copy the .elf file from your computer
to the CompactFlash card.

3. Disconnect the CompactFlash card from your computer and
insert it into the receiver.

4. Turn the receiver off.

5. Hold down d and press p.

General Operation 4

The receiver starts up in Monitor mode, automatically detects
the newer version of the firmware, and installs it. In Monitor
mode, the red SV Tracking LED is lit solidly and the yellow
Logging/Memory LED flashes slowly.

The upgrade takes about two minutes. Once the upgrade
procedure is complete, the receiver restarts automatically.

Trimble R7 Operation

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 51

4 General Operation

Trimble R7 Operation

52 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

CHAPTER

5

Configuration 5

In this chapter:

Q Introduction

Q Configuring the Receiver in Real Time

Q Configuring the Receiver Using Application Files

Q Application Files

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 53

5 Configuration

5.1 Introduction

Trimble R7 Operation

5.2 Configuring the Receiver in Real Time

The Trimble R7 receiver has no controls for changing settings. To
configure the receiver, use external software, such as the GPS
Configurator or Trimble Survey Controller software.

There are two ways to configure the Trimble R7:

• Configuring the receiver in real time

• Applying the settings in an application file

This chapter provides a brief overview of each of these methods, and
describes the contents and use of application files.

The GPS Configurator and Trimble Survey Controller software
support real-time configuration of the Trimble R7 receiver.

When you configure the receiver in real time, you use one of these
software applications to specify which settings you want to change.
When you apply the changes, the receiver settings change
immediately.

Any changes that you apply to the receiver are reflected in the Current
application file, which is always present in the receiver. The Current
application file always records the most recent configuration, so if you
apply further changes (either in real time or using an application file)
the Current file is updated and there is no record of the changes that
you applied originally.

For more information on configuring the receiver in real time, see
Chapter 7, Software Utilities.

54 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Configuration 5

5.3 Configuring the Receiver Using Application Files

An application file contains information for configuring a receiver. To
configure a receiver using an application file, you need to create the
application file, transfer it to the receiver, and then apply the file
settings. GPS Configurator does this for you automatically when you
work with configuration files.

For more information on applying application files, see Chapter 7,
Software Utilities.

5.4 Application Files

An application file is organized into records. Each record stores
configuration information for a particular area of receiver operation.
Application files can include the following records:

• File Storage

• General Controls

• Serial Port Baud/Format

Trimble R7 Operation

• Reference Position

• Logging Rate

• SV Enable/Disable

•Output Message

• Antenna

• Device Control

• Static/Kinematic

• Input Message

• Timed Activation

An application file does not have to contain all of these records. When
you apply an application file, any option that is not included in the
records in the file remains at its current setting. For example, if you

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 55

5 Configuration

Trimble R7 Operation

54.1 Special application files

apply an application file that only specifies the elevation mask to use,
all other settings remain as they were before the application file was
applied.

You can store up to twenty different application files in battery-backed
memory on the receiver. You can apply an application file’s settings at
the time it is transferred to the receiver, or at any time afterwards.

The Trimble R7 has three special application files, which control
important aspects of the receiver’s configuration.

Default application file

The default application file (Default.cfg) contains the original receiver
configuration, and cannot be changed. This file configures the receiver
after it is reset. You can reset the receiver by holding down p for at
least 15 seconds, or by using the reset option in GPS Configurator.

For more information on the default receiver settings, see Default
Settings, page 85.

Although you cannot change or delete the default application file, you
can use a power up application file to override any or all of the default
settings.

Current application file

The current application file (Current.cfg) reflects the current receiver
configuration. Whenever you change the receiver’s configuration,
either in real time or by applying an application file, the current file
changes to match the new configuration.

You cannot delete the current file or change it directly, but every
change to the receiver’s current configuration is applied to the current
file as well.

56 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Configuration 5

When you switch off the receiver then turn it on again, all the settings
from the current application file are applied, so you do not lose any
changes that you have made. The only exceptions are the following
logging parameters:

• Logging rate

• Position rate

• Elevation mask

These parameters are always reset to the factory default values
whenever the receiver is switched off.

Power Up application file

The power up application file (Power_up.cfg) is optional. If a power
up file is present, its settings are applied whenever the receiver is
powered up.

In this file, you can specify that the receiver is reset to defaults before
the power up settings are applied. This ensures that restarting the
receiver always results in the same configuration. This method is
useful for defining “default” settings for the receiver that differ from
those in the default file, which cannot be changed.

Trimble R7 Operation

Alternatively, you can specify that the power up settings are applied
immediately after the current application file’s settings have been
applied. Restarting the receiver results in a configuration that uses
your default settings for the options you define in the power up file,
but the current settings for all other options.

By default, there is no POWER_UP application file on the receiver. To
use a power up application file, you must create and save a
POWER_UP application file in GPS Configurator. If you save this file
to disk, the file is called Power_up.cfg. The extension .cfg is used by
convention to identify application files on the office computer. When
you transfer this file to the receiver, the file is saved on the receiver as
POWER_UP, and becomes the new power up file.

The power up file is the only special application file that you can
overwrite or delete from the receiver.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 57

5 Configuration

54.2 Timed application files

Trimble R7 Operation

A timed application file contains a Timed Activation record which
specifies when this file is to be applied. The main use of a timed
application file is to automatically start or stop logging at a predefined
time.

The Timed Activation record specifies:

• the UTC date and time when the application file is to be applied
for the first time

• the interval at which the file is to be reapplied

If you do not specify a repeat interval, the settings are applied only
once, at the specified time. If the file specifies a repeat interval, the
file’s settings are reapplied at the specified interval until the file is
deactivated.

Note – If the receiver is logging continuously, the current logging
takes precedence over any timed application file stored in the receiver.

Defining timed application files

To send timed application files to a Trimble R7, set up scheduled
survey sessions in GPS Configurator. You can define multiple
sessions, each specifying:

• basic logging parameters (data logging rate, position logging
rate, and elevation mask)

• a starting time

• a duration

When you apply the current settings in GPS Configurator, each
defined survey session is sent to the Trimble R7 as a pair of timed
application files: the first includes the logging settings and start time,
and the second contains settings that stop logging at the end time
(which is calculated automatically from the duration you specify).

For more information on scheduled survey sessions, refer to the GPS
Configurator Help.

58 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

The receiver can store up to 20 application files, so you can define a
maximum of 10 scheduled survey sessions (10 pairs of start/stop timed
application files).

Sleep mode

Whenever you press p to turn off the Trimble R7, it checks for a
timed application file that is due to be activated in the future. If one
exists, the receiver goes into Sleep mode instead of powering down.

In Sleep mode, the yellow Logging/Memory LED flashes every three
seconds. The receiver wakes up five minutes before the scheduled
activation time, so that it is ready to begin logging at the scheduled
time.

54.3 Applying application files

An application file’s settings do not affect the receiver’s configuration
until you apply the application file. You can do this at the same time
that you save the file. Alternatively, save the file on the computer or in
the receiver, then open it later and apply its settings.

Configuration 5

Trimble R7 Operation

Note – If the application file is a timed file, its settings do not take
effect as soon as you apply the file, but at the time that the file specifies
for its activation.

54.4 Storing application files

You can store application files that you create in GPS Configurator on
the receiver and on the computer. For example, each file can represent
a different user sharing the same receiver, or a particular mode of
operation or survey style. Saving application files on your computer as
well as in your receiver is optional, but it is useful because:

• it gives you a permanent copy of the settings you have sent to a
receiver, for audit or your own reference.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 59

5 Configuration

• you can use the same file to configure multiple receivers
identically.

Trimble R7 Operation

54.5 Naming application files

• you can use an existing application file as a template for
creating other application files with similar settings.

The application filename in the office computer and in the receiver is
always the same. This makes it easier to recognize and keep track of
your application files.

When you change the name of the application file in the receiver, this
changes the application filename on your computer. When you
transfer an application file from the receiver and save it to the
computer, the system renames the file to match the internal receiver
file. However, if you use Windows Explorer, for example, to change
the .cfg filename on the computer, this does not change the internal
receiver filename. This means that the GPS receiver does not
recognize the change to the filename on the computer.

60 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

CHAPTER

6

Transferring Data 6

In this chapter:

Q Introduction

Q Connecting to the Office Computer

Q Transferring Data

Q Transferring Files Directly from a Compactflash Card

Q Deleting Files in the Receiver

Q Supported File Types

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 61

6 Transferring Data

6.1 Introduction

Trimble R7 Operation

The Trimble R7 receiver keeps satellite measurements and other data
in files stored on a CompactFlash card. These files cannot be
processed until you transfer them to your office computer.

Note – The receiver supports a maximum of 512 files on the
CompactFlash cards.

On returning to the office after completing a survey, transfer the field
data to a computer that has the Trimble Geomatics Office™ software
installed. You can then process the survey data in Trimble Geomatics
Office to produce baselines and coordinates.

62 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

6.2 Connecting to the Office Computer

The Trimble R7 has three serial (COM) ports and one USB port for
connection to the office computer. A USB connection is up to ten
times faster than normal serial communications.

Use the standard power/serial data cable to connect the receiver to the
computer, as shown in Figure 6.1.

Power/serial data

cable

Transferring Data 6

Trimble R7 Operation

Serial (COM) port

Por t 2

Figure 6.1 Connecting the Trimble R7 to a computer for serial data transfer

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 63

6 Transferring Data

Trimble R7 Operation

Use the USB cable to connect the receiver to the computer, as shown
in Figure 6.2.

USB cable

USB port

Figure 6.2 Connecting the Trimble R7 to a computer for USB data transfer

Note – When the receiver is connected to a USB port on a computer, it
is treated as a peripheral device of the computer. If the receiver is
unplugged or powered down, a warning message is displayed on the
computer.

64 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

USB port

6.3 Transferring Data

Transfer the data files to the computer using the Trimble Data Transfer
utility. You can run this utility as a standalone program or from within
Trimble Geomatics Office. For more information about the transfer
process, refer to the Data Transfer Help.

Note – When you connect to a receiver in the Data Transfer utility, you
must use a GPS Receiver (R/5000 Series) device definition. If you use
a GPS Receiver (4000 Series) device definition, the Data Transfer
utility will be unable to establish communication with the receiver.

When transfer is complete, the Data Transfer utility automatically
converts the file to the DAT format. If you are using Data Transfer
from within Trimble Geomatics Office, the Check-in dialog appears.
For more information, refer to the Trimble Geomatics Office User
Guide.

Note – A file in DAT format is approximately six times the size of the
corresponding file in the Trimble R7 internal format. Before
transferring files, make sure that there is enough space on your
computer.

Transferring Data 6

Trimble R7 Operation

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 65

6 Transferring Data

6.4 Transferring Files Directly from a CompactFlash

Card

Trimble R7 Operation

All data is stored in a Trimble R7 receiver on an internal
CompactFlash card. There are two ways to transfer files between the
receiver and the office computer:

• Connect the receiver to the office computer and use the Data
Transfer utility to transfer files.

• Remove the CompactFlash card from the receiver and connect it
directly to your office computer, where it functions like a
normal disk drive. Use Windows Explorer to transfer files.

When you use the Data Transfer utility to transfer data files from the
CompactFlash card while it is still inserted in the receiver, the Data
Transfer utility converts the raw receiver data (.T01) files you select
into the Trimble DAT file format.

However, if you connect the CompactFlash card to your computer and
then copy or move files to your computer, it treats the card like any
other disk drive, and transfers the files without converting them. You
need to convert these raw receiver files to DAT format files before you
can use them on your office computer.

You can convert receiver data files by using a Windows Explorer
extension which is installed on your computer when you install the
Data Transfer utility.

Note – Although this extension is only available if you have the Data
Transfer utility installed, you do not have to run the Data Transfer
utility to use it.

66 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Transferring Data 6

To convert a .T01 file on your office computer into the DAT format:

1. On your office computer, open Windows Explorer and navigate
to the location of the .T01 file.

2. Right-click the file, and from the menu that appears select
Convert to DAT format:

Trimble R7 Operation

The DAT File Conversion dialog appears while the file is
converted. When the dialog disappears, the file conversion is
complete.

A new file with the same filename but a .dat extension appears
in the same folder as the .T01 file.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 67

6 Transferring Data

6.1 Deleting Files in the Receiver

Trimble R7 Operation

6.2 Supported File Types

Table 6.1 Supported file types

You can delete files stored in the receiver at any time. Do one of the
following:

• Use the Data Transfer utility in Trimble Geomatics Office.

• Use the TSC1/TSCe controller.

• Hold down the power button p for 30 seconds after the
receiver has been powered on. (When you use this method, all
data is deleted, and the CompactFlash card is reformatted.)

• Use GPS Configurator.

Table 6.1 shows the file types that you can transfer to or from a
Trimble R7 receiver, and the software or utility that you must use to
transfer each file type.

File Type Extensions Transfer from

Trimbl e R 7?

Ephemeris .eph Yes No Data Transfer

Raw observations .T01, .dat Yes No Data Transfer

Receiver firmware files .elf No Yes WinFlash

Application files .cfg Yes Yes GPS

Transfer to

Trim ble R7?

Software

Configurator

Note – The Trimble R7 receiver supports a maximum of 512 files on
the CompactFlash card. Files stored on the compact flash must be 8.3
format. The Trimble R7 receiver does not support extended file names.

68 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

CHAPTER

7

Software Utilities 7

In this chapter:

Q Introduction

Q GPS Configurator Software

Q WinFlash Software

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 69

7 Software Utilities

7.1 Introduction

Trimble R7 Operation

7.2 GPS Configurator Software

72.1 Installing GPS Configurator

This chapter provides information on the software utilities that you
can use with the Trimble R7 receiver.

GPS Configurator is office software that configures selected Trimble
GPS receivers.

GPS Configurator lets you:

• edit and save configuration files to the receiver and the
computer

• check current receiver settings and operation

• change receiver settings in real time

A copy of GPS Configurator is included on the Trimble R7,
Trimble R8, 5700, and 5800 GPS Receivers CD.

To install the software:

1. Insert the disk into the CD drive on your office computer.

2. From the main menu select Install individual software
packages.

3. Select Install GPS Configurator vX.XX.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

70 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

70.1 Configuring the Trimble R7 receiver

To configure a Trimble R7 receiver using GPS Configurator:

Software Utilities 7

1. Connect Port 1 or 2 on the receiver to a serial (COM) port on
the computer and apply power.

2. To start GPS Configurator, click and then select
Programs / Trimble / GPS Configurator / GPS Configurator.

3. Select Trimble R7 in the Device Type dialog.

The software automatically establishes a connection with the
receiver.

4. Make appropriate selections for your required receiver settings.

For more information, refer to the GPS Configurator Help.

5. Click

Apply.

The settings in GPS Configurator are applied to the receiver.

7.1 WinFlash Software

WinFlash communicates with Trimble products to perform various
functions including:

• installing software, firmware, and option upgrades

• running diagnostics (for example, retrieving configuration
information)

Trimble R7 Operation

• configuring radios

For more information, online help is also available when using
WinFlash.

Note – WinFlash runs on Microsoft Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, Me, or
XP operating systems.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 71

7 Software Utilities

71.1 Installing WinFlash

Trimble R7 Operation

70.1 Upgrading firmware

WinFlash can be installed from the Trimble R7, Trimble R8, 5700, and
5800 GPS Receivers CD, or from the Trimble website.

Installing WinFlash from the CD

1. Insert the disk into the CD drive on your computer.

2. From the main menu select Install individual software
packages.

3. Select Install WinFlash vX.XX with Trimble R7 drivers and
firmware.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Your Trimble R7 receiver is supplied with the latest version of receiver
firmware installed. If a later version becomes available, upgrade the
firmware installed on your receiver.

WinFlash guides you through the firmware upgrade process. The steps
required are described below. For more information, refer to the
WinFlash Help.

To upgrade the Trimble R7 receiver firmware:

1. Start WinFlash.

The Device Configuration screen appears.

2. From the Device type list select Trimble R7 Receiver.

3. From the PC serial port field select the serial (COM) port on
the computer that the receiver is connected to.

4. Click

72 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Next.

Software Utilities 7

The Operation Selection screen appears. The Operations list
shows all of the supported operations for the selected device. A
description of the selected operation is shown in the Description
field.

Trimble R7 Operation

5. Select GPS software upgrade and click

Next.

The GPS Software Selection window appears. This screen
prompts you to select the software that you want to install on
the Trimble R7 receiver.

6. Select the latest version from the Available Software list and
click

Next.

The Settings Review window appears. This screen prompts you
to connect the receiver, suggests a connection method, and then
lists the receiver configuration and selected operation.

7. If all is correct, click

Finish.

Based on the selections shown above, the Software Upgrade
window appears and shows the status of the operation (for
example,

8. Click

Establishing communication with the Trimble R7. Please wait.).

OK.

The Software Upgrade window appears again and states that the
operation was completed successfully.

9. Click

Menu to select another operation, or click Exit to quit

WinFlash.

10. If you click
that you want to quit WinFlash. Click

Exit, another screen appears asking you to confirm

OK.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 73

7 Software Utilities

70.1 Adding frequencies for the 450 MHz internal radio

Trimble R7 Operation

If your receiver has the optional internal radio installed, you can use
WinFlash to add receiving frequencies to the default list.

To add radio receiving frequencies:

1. Start WinFlash.

The Device Configuration screen appears.

2. From the Device type list select Trimble R7 Receiver.

3. From the PC serial port field select the serial (COM) port on
the computer that the receiver is connected to.

4. Click

Next.

The Operation Selection screen appears. The Operations list
shows all of the supported operations for the selected device. A
description of the selected operation is shown in the Description
field.

5. Select Configure Radio and click

Next.

74 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

The Frequency Selection window appears:

Software Utilities 7

Trimble R7 Operation

6. In the Wireless Format group, select the appropriate channel and
wireless mode. The Wireless Mode must be the same for all
radios in your network.

7. In the Specify Frequency field, enter the frequency you require.

8. Click

Add. The new frequency appears in the Selected

Frequencies list.

Note – The frequencies that you program must conform to the channel
spacing and minimum tuning requirements for the radio. To view this
information, click

Radio Info. You may select either 12.5 or 25 kHz

channel spacing. All radios in your network must use the same
channel spacing.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 75

7 Software Utilities

9. When you have configured all the frequencies you require, click

OK.

Trimble R7 Operation

70.1 Configuring the internal 900 MHz radio setup

WinFlash updates the receiver radio frequencies and then
restarts the receiver.

To configure the internal 900 MHz radio, use one of the following:

• Trimble Survey Controller running on a Trimble controller

• WinFlash (provided on the Trimble R7, Trimble R8, 5700, and
5800 GPS Receivers CD)

The internal radio has 40 selectable networks. You must choose the
same network that is configured in the base radio you want to receive
from.

Trimble Survey Controller

To configure the radio network using Trimble Survey Controller:

1. Connect the data/power cable to the controller and the receiver
and turn on the controller. The receiver starts automatically.

2. From the main menu on the controller, select Configuration.

3. In the dialog that appears, select Survey styles, then from the
Type field, select RTK.

4. Select Rover radio, then from the Typ e field select Trimble
Internal.

5. Tap the

! softkey.

6. Once connected, in the Network number field enter the number
of the network set on your base radio.

Note – The Base Radio Mode field is not used here.

7. Tap the

76 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

E softkey to complete configuration.

WinFlash

To configure the radio network using WinFlash:

Software Utilities 7

1. Connect the data/power cable to Port 1 on the receiver.

2. Connect the female DE-9 connector on the other end of the
data/power cable to a serial (COM) port on the computer.

3. Start WinFlash. The Device Configuration dialog appears.

4. From the Device type list, select Trimble R7 Receiver.

5. From the PC serial port field, select the serial port on the
computer that the receiver is connected to and click

Next.

6. From the Operation selection dialog, select Configure radio and
click

Next.

7. Confirm that your current settings are correct and click

Finish.

The Configure 900MHz radio dialog appears.

8. In the Network number field, select the same network that is set
on your base radio.

9. In the Country setting field, select one of the following
(according to how your base radio was shipped):

– Your country (if available). This sets the radio to the a specific
frequency range being transmitted by the base radio.

– A single frequency. This limits the frequencies used to those
authorized in your particular country.

Trimble R7 Operation

10. Click

OK.

WinFlash updates the radio settings and then restarts the receiver.

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 77

7 Software Utilities

Trimble R7 Operation

78 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

CHAPTER

8

Specifications 8

In this chapter:

Q Introduction

Q Physical Specifications

Q Positioning Specifications

Q Technical Specifications

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 79

8 Specifications

8.1 Introduction

Trimble R7 Operation

8.2 Physical Specifications

This chapter lists the specifications of the Trimble R7 receiver.

Table 8.1 lists physical specifications for the Trimble R7. The
temperature rating of the receiver applies only when all doors on the
receiver are closed.

Table 8.1 Physical specifications

Feature Specification

Size 13.5 cm W x 8.5 cm H x 24 cm L

(5.3 in. W x 3.4 in. H x 9.5 in. L)

Weight
(with 2 batteries inserted)

Battery life
(at 20 °C)

Power input 11–28 V DC

Operating temperature

Storage temperature –40 °C to +80 °C (–40 °F to +176 °F)

Humidity 100% condensing, unit fully sealed

Casing Dust-proof, shock- and vibration-resistant

a

The USB port only operates when the temperature is above 0 °C (32 °F). The internal

batteries only charge when the temperature is in the range 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F)

1.4 kg (3.0 lb)

RTK with internal radio: 3.5 hours

No internal radio: 5 hours

–40 °C to +65 °C (–40 °F to +149 °F)

a

80 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

8.3 Positioning Specifications

Table 8.2 lists positioning specifications for the Trimble R7.

Specifications 8

Table 8.2 Positioning specifications

Positioning Mode Horizontal Accuracy

(RMS)

RTK (OTF) Synchronized 1 cm + 1 ppm

(× baseline length)

Low Latency 2 cm + 2 ppm

(× baseline length)

L1 C/A Code
Phase

Static/
FastStatic

WAAS N/A Less than 5 m

a

Depends on radio link latency.

b

3D RMS values depend on WAAS system performance.

Synchronized/

.25 m + 1 ppm RMS .50 m + 1 ppm RMS

Low Latency

N/A 5 mm + 0.5 ppm

(× baseline length)

b

Vertical Accuracy
(RMS)

2 cm + 1 ppm
(× baseline length)

3 cm + 2 ppm

a

(× baseline length)

5 mm + 1 ppm
(× baseline length)

Less than 5 m

Trimble R7 Operation

a

b

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 81

8 Specifications

8.4 Technical Specifications

Table 8.3 lists technical specifications for the Trimble R7.

Trimble R7 Operation

Table 8.3 Technical specifications

Feature Specification

Tracking 24 Channels L1 C/A Code, L2C, L1/L2 Full Cycle

Carrier, WAAS/EGNOS support

Fully operational during P-code encryption

WAAS satellite tracking

Signal processing Maxwell V architecture

Very low-noise C/A code processing

Multipath suppression

Start-up Cold start: < 60 seconds from power on

Warm start: < 30 seconds with recent ephemeris

Initialization Automatic while moving or static

Minimum
initialization time

Communications Three RS-232 serial ports (Port 1, Port 2, and Port 3)

Configuration Via user-definable application files or GPS

10 sec + 0.5 × baseline length (km)

Baud rates up to 115,200 bps

RTS/CTS flow control negotiation supported on Port 3
only

One USB port (download only)

Configurator

Output formats NMEA-0183: AVR; GGA; GSA; GST; GSV;

PTNL,GGK; PTNL,GGK_SYNC; HDT; PTNL,PJK;
PTNL,PJT; ROT PTNL,VGK; VHD; VTG; ZDA

GSOF (Trimble Binary Streamed Output)

1PPS

RT17

82 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

CHAPTER

9

Default Settings 9

In this chapter:

Q Introduction

Q Default Settings

Q Resetting to Factory Defaults

Q Examples

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 83

9 Default Settings

9.1 Introduction

Trimble R7 Operation

All Trimble R7 receiver settings are stored in application files. The
Default application file, Default.cfg, is stored permanently in the
receiver, and contains the factory default settings for the Trimble R7.
Whenever the receiver is reset to its factory defaults, the current
settings (stored in the Current application file, Current.cfg) are reset to
the values in the Default application file.

You cannot modify the Default application file. However, if there is a
Power Up application file (Power_Up.cfg) in the receiver, the settings
in this file can be applied immediately after the Default application
file, overriding the factory defaults.

For more information about application files, see Application Files,
page 55.

84 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

9.2 Default Settings

Table 9.1 shows the default settings for the Trimble R7 receiver, as
defined in the default application file.

Table 9.1 Default settings

Function Factory Default

SV Enable All SVs enabled

General Controls: Elevation mask 13°

Power Output 3 Disabled

1PPS time tags Off

ASCII time tags Off

Serial Port 1: Baud rate 38400

Default Settings 9

Trimble R7 Operation

PDOP mask 7

RTK positioning mode Low Latency

Motion Kinematic

Format 8-None-1

Flow control None

Serial Port 2: Baud rate 38400

Format 8-None-1

Serial Port 3: Baud rate 38400

Format 8-None-1

Flow control None

Input Setup: Station Any

NMEA/ASCII (all messages) All Ports Off

Streamed output All Types Off

Offset = 00

RT17/Binary All Ports Off

CMR output [Static] CMR: cref ID 0000

RTCM output RTCM: Type 1 ID 0000

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 85

9 Default Settings

Trimble R7 Operation

9.3 Resetting to Factory Defaults

Table 9.1 Default settings (continued)

Function Factory Default

Reference position: Latitude 0°

Longitude 0°

Altitude 0.00 m HAE

Antenna: Type Unknown external

Height (true vertical) 0.00 m

Group All

Measurement method Bottom of antenna mount

Logging rate 15 sec

Position rate 5 min

Measurement rate 10 Hz

To reset the receiver to its factory defaults, as defined above, do one of
the following:

• Press and hold down p on the receiver for 15 seconds.

• In GPS Configurator, select Connect to Receiver and then click Reset

receiver in the General tab.

86 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide

Default Settings 9

9.4 Examples

The following examples show how the Trimble R7 uses the default
settings and special application files in various situations.

94.1 Default behavior

The factory defaults specified above are applied whenever you start
the receiver. If a Power Up file is present in the receiver, its settings
are applied immediately after the default settings, so you can use a
Power Up file to define your own set of defaults.

When you turn the receiver on and … then logging settings are … and logging …

it is the first time that the receiver has
been used

you have reset the receiver to its factory
defaults

you have performed a full reset the factory defaults, because

a

A factory default setting is only used if the setting is not defined in the Power Up file.

the factory defaults does not begin

automatically

the factory defaults, or those
in the Power Up file

resetting deletes any Power
Up file

a

does not begin
automatically

does not begin
automatically

Trimble R7 Operation

Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide 87

9 Default Settings

94.2 Power up settings

Trimble R7 Operation

When you turn the receiver off, any changes that you have made to
logging settings are lost and these settings are returned to the factory
defaults. Other settings remain as defined in the Current file. The next
time you turn on the receiver, the receiver checks for a power up file
and, if one is present, applies the settings in this file.

When you use p to turn the receiver
off then on again and …

you changed the receiver settings by
applying an application file

you changed the receiver settings using
configuration software

there is a Power Up application file in the
receiver

a

A factory default setting is used only if the setting is not defined in the Power Up file.

then logging
settings are …

the factory defaults the last settings used

the factory defaults the last settings used

the factory defaults, or
those in the Power Up

a

file

and all other settings
are …

the last settings used, or
those in the Power Up
file

a

88 Trimble R7/R8 GPS Receiver User Guide