Surveying professionals depend on the accuracy and reliability of their equipment to gather precise geospatial data. As real-time kinematic (RTK) technology has become more accessible, it’s increasingly used for surveying and construction projects, thanks to its ability to provide centimeter-level accuracy in real-time.
For someone looking to purchase RTK equipment for the first time, deciding between new or used gear can be a challenging choice. Both options come with their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. This article explores both options and when it makes sense to purchase new or use depending on your needs.
Understanding RTK Survey Equipment
Key Factors to Consider When Purchasing RTK Equipment
Advantages of Purchasing New RTK Survey Equipment
Disadvantages of Purchasing New RTK Survey Equipment
Advantages of Purchasing Used RTK Survey Equipment
Disadvantages of Purchasing Used RTK Survey Equipment
Conclusion: Why New RTK Equipment is the Better Choice
Before delving into the pros and cons of new versus used RTK equipment, let’s quickly summarize what RTK surveying entails. RTK is a precise satellite navigation method that uses the signals from GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) to calculate location data with incredible accuracy. RTK involves a base station and one rover. The base station passes correction to the rover to correct errors in the satellite signals, delivering results accurate to +/- 8 mm in the horizontal and +/- 15 mm in the vertical. This level of precision is critical for tasks in construction, agriculture, mapping, and any other industry where accurate geospatial data is needed. Check out our video below to learn a little bit more about how RTK works?
Whether you decide to purchase new or used RTK equipment, certain factors are critical to your decision-making process:
With these factors in mind, let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of buying new or used RTK equipment.
1. Access to the Latest Technology
New RTK equipment often comes equipped with the latest technological advancements. Surveying technology is constantly evolving, with improvements in accuracy, ease of use, and integration with other devices and software. The difference in performance between 6th generation RTK, like the Hemisphere S321 and 7th generation RTK like the Hemisphere S631 can be massive.
Newer technology will perform better under trees, near buildings and help you survey faster in the field. Newer models also typically provide more accurate results due to advancements in GNSS technology, better data processing algorithms, and improved error correction techniques. On top of this with up-to-date equipment can handle larger datasets and process information more quickly, reducing survey times.
2. Warranty and Manufacturer Support
One of the most significant advantages of buying new RTK equipment is the warranty and support that comes with it. When you purchase a new system from a reputable vendor, you’re covered for repairs, software updates, and general support for a specified period.
Knowing that your investment is backed by a warranty can offer peace of mind, especially if you encounter any problems with the equipment. Things happen that you can’t always predict, and having warranty will help you avoid any unnecessary headaches. New equipment often comes with free software updates for a certain period. These updates are essential for maintaining compatibility with other systems and ensuring optimal performance.
Another thing to consider is the level of support and service the vendor is going to provide you. With new equipment, you are often going to be buying directly from a distributor or dealer. These shops often provide a lot more service than you would see from a private sale of used equipment. Here at Bench-Mark we offer comprehensive training, live tech support, and access to our Survey-Assistant.com training website, all for free with every RTK system.
3. Reliability and Longevity
When you purchase new RTK survey equipment, you’re not inheriting any potential problems from previous users. Used equipment, regardless of how well it was maintained, may have hidden issues that only become apparent after extensive use. New equipment is guaranteed to work perfectly straight out of the box. There’s no risk of malfunctioning parts or degraded accuracy due to wear and tear.
For first-time buyers, this reliability is critical as it allows you to focus on learning the equipment and applying it to your work rather than dealing with the potential headaches of breakdowns or inaccuracies. With lots of experience, dealing with the potentially hidden issues can be easy, but without understanding the specifics of the equipment, it can be really hard to find out and fix the source of your issues.
4. Customization and Scalability
When purchasing new RTK equipment, you can often customize the system to meet your specific needs. Many manufacturers allow buyers to add accessories, software features, or additional capabilities to the system, ensuring that it works for their particular use cases. Tailoring the system to your needs means you won’t need to buy additional components down the road. Newer systems are more likely to be compatible with upcoming technology, ensuring your investment remains useful for a longer period.
5. Tax Incentives and Depreciation
Purchasing new equipment also qualifies for tax incentives, such as capital cost allowances or accelerated depreciation, which can help offset the cost. For business owners, this can be a valuable financial benefit. Check out this article to learn a bit more about possible tax incentives: Growing Your Business Tax Write-Offs of Survey Equipment.
1. Higher Initial Cost
The most obvious drawback of buying new equipment is the price. RTK systems are a significant investment, often ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. For new or small businesses, this upfront cost can be prohibitive. Many first-time buyers may not have the budget for top-of-the-line equipment. However, financing options and payment plans can help alleviate the initial financial burden. While the higher cost of new equipment can be a downside, it’s essential to view this expense as an investment in the future reliability and success of your surveying operations.
2. Depreciation
Like any technology, new RTK equipment begins to depreciate the moment it’s purchased. If you plan to upgrade your equipment in the future or sell it after a few years, you’ll likely face a reduced resale value. While new equipment holds its value longer than used equipment, it will still depreciate over time, and selling it may not recover a significant portion of your initial investment.
Despite this, the longer lifespan and reliability of new equipment often make up for the depreciation.
1. Lower Initial Cost
The most obvious benefit of buying used RTK equipment is the lower cost. Second-hand equipment is generally much cheaper than new gear, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget. Used equipment can be up to 50% cheaper than new systems, depending on its condition and age. For some first-time buyers, the reduced upfront cost can be the deciding factor, particularly if the equipment has been well-maintained and is still in good working condition.
2. Proven Technology
Used Equipment is often a known commodity. The hiccups and downsides have been solved by other people. This means when you receive your equipment you are ready to start working.
1. Potential for Hidden Issues
One of the biggest risks when purchasing used RTK equipment is that it may come with hidden problems that are not immediately apparent. Physical wear on components, such as antennas, cables, and receivers, can affect the overall performance of the system. Used equipment may be several years old, meaning it lacks the latest features and improvements that newer models offer.
For first-time buyers, navigating these potential pitfalls can be difficult, as it requires a thorough understanding of the equipment’s condition and history.
To help reduce the risk of you experiencing an issue, you need to have a dealer that is able to provide you a history of the unit and properly inspects the equipment. Here at Bench-Mark we run all used equipment through a comprehensive performance test, and refurbish the unit as best as possible.
2. Lack of Warranty and Manufacturer Support
Used equipment rarely comes with a warranty, and once the original warranty expires, you’ll be on your own for repairs and technical support. If you encounter problems with your equipment, you won’t always have the option to contact the manufacturer for assistance. Many of these used systems are no longer supported by the manufacturer. Without a warranty, any necessary repairs or part replacements will come out of your pocket, potentially negating any cost savings from buying used. This is on top of the fact, that as the units are discontinued, spare parts may not be available.
While buying used RTK survey equipment can save you money upfront, the long-term disadvantages often outweigh the initial savings, especially for first-time buyers. New equipment provides several key benefits, including:
Although the upfront cost of new RTK equipment may be higher, the reliability, longevity, and support you receive make it a smarter investment, especially for those new to the world of RTK surveying. By choosing new, you’re setting yourself up for success and ensuring your investment will pay off in the long term.
New RTK equipment offers long-term reliability, better performance, and access to manufacturer support, making it a smarter investment, especially for first-time buyers. Although used equipment is cheaper upfront, new equipment’s longevity, warranty, and customization options often make it a better choice for ensuring future success in surveying projects.
The main disadvantages of buying used RTK equipment include:
– Hidden issues, such as wear on key components, that may affect performance.
– Lack of warranty and manufacturer support, meaning repairs and parts are out of pocket.
– Older equipment may lack the features and performance improvements of newer models.
Purchasing new RTK equipment offers several benefits:
– Access to the latest technology and better performance in difficult environments.
– Warranty and manufacturer support for software updates and repairs.
– Greater reliability, as new equipment has no hidden wear or issues.
– Customization options, allowing you to tailor the system to specific needs.
– Potential tax incentives that may offset the higher initial cost.
RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) survey equipment is a high-precision satellite navigation tool used in industries like construction, agriculture, and mapping. It relies on signals from GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) and delivers centimeter-level accuracy in real-time. This accuracy is crucial for gathering precise geospatial data, which ensures that survey and construction projects are completed efficiently and correctly.
Bench Mark Equipment & Supplies is your team to trust with all your surveying equipment. We have been providing high-quality surveying equipment to land surveyors, engineers, construction, airborne and resource professionals since 2002. This helps establish ourselves as the go-to team in Calgary, Canada, and the USA. Plus, we provide a wide selection of equipment, including global navigation satellite systems, RTK GPS equipment, GNSS receivers, and more. We strive to provide the highest level of customer care and service for everyone. To speak to one of our team today, call us at +1 (888) 286-3204 or email us at [email protected]
North America’s #1 supplier of land surveying equipment and instruments.
