Auto Lock Guidelines for POA 101 and POA 102

  • Updated
This article explains how to use Auto Lock, how to center on a target, and when to use it with the PLT 400. In most cases, it is recommended to keep Auto Lock enabled for faster and more reliable measurements.
 

What is Auto Lock

Auto Lock automatically detects and locks onto a foil target, helping the total station stay centered without manual adjustment

  • On the PLT 300, Auto Lock is always enabled and cannot be turned off
  • On the PLT 400, Auto Lock can be turned on or off in General Settings or directly in the camera view

If the system struggles to lock onto the foil target, you can switch to the laser instead, this is especially useful in environments with poor visibility or interference

When to Use the Laser Instead

  • When the foil target is partially blocked or not clearly visible
  • When working in tight or cluttered environments
  • When reflections or lighting conditions affect Auto Lock accuracy
  • For fine adjustments when the lock is slightly off center

Correct Use of Foil Targets

To ensure accurate Auto Lock performance, follow these guidelines:
  • Keep a square angle between the total station and the target
  • Keep the foil targets clean and free of dirt, dust, or markings
  • Avoid mounting the foil targets on curved or cylindrical surfaces such as poles or columns
  • Keep the distance within 30 meters for best performance
  • Avoid reflective backgrounds such as glass, metal, or water surfaces
  • Make sure strong sunlight or artificial light does not interfere with the telescope view
If Auto Lock does not center correctly, review these conditions before adjusting manually.

Checking the Lock

After Auto Lock engages, verify the result in the camera view. The laser should be visible on the center of the foil target. If the laser is off center, a manual correction may be required.

Manual Adjustments

If Auto Lock is not accurate, you can manually correct the alignment.

PLT 300 Adjustment Demo

For PLT 300:

  1. Select the laser as the measuring method
  2. Move the laser until it is centered on the foil target
  3. Click the green check mark to confirm
  4. Measure the point

PLT 400 Adjustment Demo

For PLT 400:

Option 1:

  1. Select the laser as the measuring method
  2. Move the laser to the center of the foil target
  3. Click the green check mark to confirm
  4. Measure the point

Option 2:

  1. Open the side panel in the camera view
  2. Disable Auto Lock
  3. Manually move the camera until the laser is centered
  4. Click the green check mark to confirm
  5. Measure the point

Using these methods ensures accurate centering and improves overall measurement quality when Auto Lock alone is not sufficient

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