Using Distance Azimuth Offsets with LaserSoft® Connect™ App

Bridge TruPulse rangefinders and the Distance-Azimuth LaserGIS^® offset workflow with Esri’s ArcGIS Field Maps solution through the  LaserSoft Connect app. This device-agnostic app connects with any GNSS receiver, seamlessly fitting into and upgrading your toolkit. Accurately map assets with a TruPulse 360i, even when they are located in hard-to-reach or dangerous locations. Assets located in roadways, on dangerous or steep terrain, or private property are easily recorded while you keep a safe distance.

Understanding the Distance Azimuth Workflow

The Distance-Azimuth method is the easiest and fastest laser offset option. Pair a TruPulse 360i rangefinder with your GNSS receiver to utilize a streamlined one-shot-per-asset cadence. The 360i’s built-in electronic compass comes equipped with TruVector technology to provide azimuth accuracy, precision, and repeatability regardless of what pitch or angle you shoot from.  Azimuth data is recorded each time you press the fire button. This opens up the possibility of positioning multiple assets from one convenient location.

TruVector 360° Compass Technology provides azimuth accuracy regardless of what pitch or angle you shoot from.

While laser offsets are a go-to solution for those hard-to-reach assets, the Distance-Azimuth method takes things a step further by also cutting down on your time in the field. Even when all assets are easy to reach, traditional methods still require you to walk over to each one individually. Meanwhile, Distance-Azimuth users can map every asset in sight before moving to the next convenient spot.

Performing the Workflow

Make sure the LaserSoft Connect app is installed on your Android device. Open up ArcGIS Field Maps and head into your profile settings. Once there, tap the Offset option and select Laser Tech Connect. Next, tap on Provider and select Integrated. This video demonstrates these first steps in action along with a screen recording that you can follow:

Make sure to enter your Antenna and Laser Heights. With a TruPulse 360i rangefinder, it’s also a smart idea to perform a user compass calibration before taking any measurements.

Here is how to perform the Distance-Azimuth offset method with the LaserSoft Connect App and ArcGIS Field Maps:

1. Start a point in ArcGIS Field Maps, tap the three dots icon for more options, and select Offset From Location. This launches LaserSoft Connect.
2. Connect your TruPulse laser rangefinder to the app via Bluetooth and establish a GPS connection.
3. Tap the Distance-Azimuth option.
4. Capture your current location’s coordinates with your GNSS receiver.
5. Use your TruPulse 360i rangefinder to record a shot to the first asset.
6. Repeat until all assets within sight have been mapped.

This video demonstrates each step in action, along with a screen recording that you can follow:

The LaserSoft Connect app is available in the Google Play store for free. The Distance-Azimuth method is one of three laser offset methods that the app makes available to ArcGIS Field Maps users. While each method comes with its own unique workflow and gear requirements, the goal is the same: making your work easier, safer, and more efficient. Contact our team if you have any questions.