Topcon opts for Datatag protection

Survey equipment manufacturer Topcon has announced it is to supply Datatag security markings as standard on all its new total stations.

Topcon business manager Dave Bennett said, “The theft of survey equipment is a real issue – not simply because of the cost of replacing it but more so the delays to a job as a result.

“Many of our instruments are already running with Topcon’s own TS Shield, the world’s first security and fleet management system for surveying equipment. Anything which further deters theft and allows companies to finish projects on time is a huge benefit.

“We are confident that the Datatag technology will have a major impact on helping to reduce instrument theft."

The new Datatag Survey System is said to give equipment an electronic 'fingerprint'. The system includes Ultra Destruct Labels that are said to be tamper evident and feature a unique number which also uses stealth UV etching to ensure the number is permanently etched even if the label is damaged or removed.

Datadots are also used – these are microdot identifications that can be applied to any surface, thus making it virtually impossible for the criminals to locate and remove them all.

Datatag DNA is another part of the system. This is an invisible and unique chemical DNA solution.

And Datatag can also provide warning signs that indicate that property is protected by a state of the art Datatag system to warn off potential thieves.

Chris Harrison, sales director at Datatag, said, “Our technologies have been proven to reduce theft in many markets including construction, agriculture, marine, motorcycle and cycle and as such is the power behind many industry backed security marking schemes.

“We are confident that our successes in these markets will be replicated here and that as a result companies will see the benefit of fitting Datatag very quickly - we are very pleased to see Topcon take the market lead in protecting their customers."