Hello,
I had a salesman talk to me about survey software, and as he was selling 12d it was the greatest in the World!
It is certainly very popular with Cadastral Surveyors in this part of the world (due to its ability to 'lodge' data in the correct format), but as a Civil Surveyor how does it rate for drainage and design?
My software progression was SDR to Trimmap to Civilcad (Topcon owned software) - I am from New Zealand, I think 12d is Australian.
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I have started using it for quantites and am finding my way around.
My fear was that I would be learning a peice of software which would be 'not supported globally' .. ie just used in NZ and Aust, and as I have civil3d and 12d (both of which I am unfamiliar with) and I only want to learn one.
Thanks again.
12d Software is a very comprehensive package that supports functionality for the entire civil engineering and surveying cycle. Unlike Autocad and Microstation, it is not a drafting package with add ons but was written from the ground up as a 3d civil engineering modelling tool. No other packages or addons are required by the user. Detail surveys, Instrument connectivity up/download. Mapping to ensure field codes and attribute collection is comprehensive and complete. Construction/subdivision setout outputs. A full suite of geodetic adjustments, traverse adjustments(least sq, Bowditch etc), dedicated machine automation input/output to the majors. The list goes on. The software supports a macro language to assist users in streamlining repetitive survey processes and also tailor the software to make the users life simpler. 12d also incorporated a "chain" ability to allow the user to setup processes and menu commands (i.e. download, reduce survey, Model, calc volumes and report) in one command. Nice for construction monthly quantities!!. Subdivision lot Management. This is a short overview of the survey side.
The flow of data can continue through the design package without any degrading of attribute info etc.
The plotting is easy within 12d as well. No need to move to another package to text or annotate.
The bottom line is the 12d Model Developers and programmers are surveyors and civil engineers. They listen to the industry and support the users requirements. Currently the industry choice in Australia. Used in over 60+ countries worldwide, and growing.
The latest module option is 12d field which allows surveyors to take the entire 3d model of a project into the field on a Tablet whilst connected Live to GNSS receivers and/or Motorised total stations with perhaps the most comprehensive stakeout functionality around. The user can view the instrument and setout pole position continuously live in plan, sectional and perspective screen views.
I personally believe it is the best, particularly as the software is in continuous development by users for users
12D is pretty good for design of roads and drainage. It also has decent tools for large scale subdivision but I haven't used them. I don't have enough experience with Civil3D to offer a comparision.
I do not know the program 12d, but I know the autocad civil 3d and microstation, are very good.
I work with autocad civil 3d land desktop, have good tools for advanced design.
perhaps if you uploaded a photo of yourself, add some tags to this discussion so it can be found, you'd get a better response. I'll pass this post around and see if any other member has an inside idea about this...