Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
The Trimble ST30 Smart Target is a 360° prism that adds an integrated GNSS receiver, IMU-based TIP tilt compensation, active tracking, target identification, GeoLock and automatic rod-height measurement to a surveying target. It is aimed at crews moving between robotic total-station and GNSS work, but the full optical-tilt workflow depends on a specific S Series instrument, BLR/DR Plus hardware, an Empower controller with an EM140 module and compatible field software.
Before ordering, have a dealer confirm the exact total-station model, controller, radio, EDM and software versions. Then choose between an ST30-only configuration and bundles that add a 2.6 m rod, top mount, extra battery, charger and EM140 radio. The published tracking range is 1.5–600 m in active mode, automatic rod-height accuracy is ±0.6 mm, and tilt performance is expressed as an instrument-accuracy term plus an angle-dependent term rather than as one fixed millimetre figure.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What is the Trimble ST30 Smart Target?
The ST30 combines several functions that are normally separate pieces of survey equipment. Its 360° prism supports robotic optical tracking, while an integrated GNSS receiver provides a second positioning path. An IMU supplies Trimble TIP tilt compensation, and the target also supports active tracking, target ID, GeoLock and automatic rod-height measurement. Trimble describes it for topographic surveys, stakeout, as-built verification, cadastral work and building layout.
That combination matters on construction sites where a crew may need a total station for line-of-sight precision in one task and GNSS positioning in another. Instead of treating the prism, receiver and rod-height measurement as unrelated accessories, the ST30 is designed as one smart target that can pass information into Trimble field and office software. Trimble lists integration with Trimble Access, Trimble Siteworks, Trimble FieldLink, Trimble Business Center and Trimble Connect. See the manufacturer’s ST30 product page for the current feature description.
Popular on Amazon
- Ergonomically Designed: Work in tight areas with a compact design that gets into tough spots
- Both tools are designed to fit into difficult to reach spaces
- Complete a wide range of applications with a high-performance motor that delivers up to 300 UWO, and an impact driver delivering up to 1,400 in-lbs of torque
- Both the DEWALT impact driver and drill driver feature integrated LED work lights with a convenient 20-second delay, ensuring enhanced visibility in dimly lit or challenging work areas
- One-Handed Loading - Keep one hand free with a 1/4 in. hex chuck that accepts 1 in. bit tips
The ST30 is not a universal replacement for every prism or GNSS rover. Its most advanced optical capability is a dealer-configured system with defined radio, EDM, controller and software requirements. A conventional 360° prism may still be the simpler choice when a project does not need tilt compensation, target identification or GNSS integration.
Key published specifications
| Item | Published figure or description | What it means when buying |
|---|---|---|
| Optical TIP horizontal performance | H: TS + 2.5 mm + 0.3 mm/° tilt | The total-station accuracy term (TS) remains part of the result; the tilt term grows as the rod moves farther from vertical. |
| Optical TIP vertical performance | V: TS + 1 mm + 0.1 mm/° tilt | Use the formula with the accuracy of the specific total station, not as a stand-alone ST30 accuracy claim. |
| GNSS TIP performance | RTK + 3 mm + 0.3 mm/° tilt | RTK error and tilt error are both included; satellite, correction-service and site conditions still affect the RTK term. |
| Automatic rod-height accuracy | ±0.6 mm | Useful when changing rod height, but the quoted figure should not be treated as a guarantee of the complete site measurement. |
| Active tracking range | 1.5–600 m | The manufacturer’s active-tracking figure; confirm the mode and line-of-sight assumptions for your instrument. |
| Passive tracking range | 1.5–500 m (dealer-listed) | A dealer specification that is 100 m shorter than the active figure. |
| Adjustable rod height | 1.55–2.6 m | Supports common construction layout heights without adding a separate extension for every setup. |
The performance figures above come from Trimble’s 2026 specifications and the dealer listings cited in the available data. They are not a substitute for the accuracy specification of the total station, the RTK correction service or the conditions on a particular site.
Is the ST30 compatible with my total station?
For the dealer configuration that provides full optical tilt functionality, compatibility requires all of the following: a supported Trimble S Series total station with BLR radio and DR Plus EDM; an Empower-enabled controller that supports the EM140 BLR radio module; and Trimble Access 2026.20 or later for the listed bundle. Dealer guidance also makes clear that the exact instrument and software versions matter, so a product-family name alone is not enough.
- Identify the exact total-station model and EDM. Record the model, installed options and whether the instrument has DR Plus EDM. “S Series” is a family designation, not a complete compatibility check.
- Confirm the radio path. The instrument must have BLR radio capability, and the controller must be an Empower model that can accept the EM140 BLR radio module.
- Check the field software. The listed bundle specifies Trimble Access 2026.20 or later. Ask the dealer to verify the version on the controller you will actually use, including any office-to-field deployment constraints.
- Match the workflow. If the project needs only a passive 360° prism, the requirements may differ from a full optical TIP, active-tracking or GNSS workflow. Get the intended mode written into the quotation.
- Request written confirmation. Send the dealer the instrument serial/model information, controller model, radio and EDM details and software versions. Keep the response with the purchase record.
The CSDS bundle listing with an EM140 module and the rod-and-top-mount bundle listing both describe compatibility in terms of supported S Series instruments, BLR radio, DR Plus EDM, Empower controllers with EM140 and the specified Access version. Those listings are useful checklists, but the dealer should confirm regional and serial-number-specific support.
What do the ST30 accuracy formulas mean?
Trimble publishes optical TIP performance as H: TS + 2.5 mm + 0.3 mm/° tilt horizontally and V: TS + 1 mm + 0.1 mm/° tilt vertically. “TS” means the accuracy of the total station being used. The formula therefore describes a combined result: the instrument’s own accuracy, a fixed ST30-related term and an additional error term that increases with rod tilt.
For example, a rod that is nearly vertical contributes little from the angle-dependent portion, while a visibly leaning rod contributes more. The formula should be evaluated with the tilt angle expected in the actual work and the total station’s published accuracy class. It is misleading to quote only the 2.5 mm or 1 mm component as if it were the complete system accuracy.
GNSS TIP is published as RTK + 3 mm + 0.3 mm/° tilt. Here, “RTK” represents the positioning performance of the GNSS solution and correction service. Multipath, obstructions, correction age and other site conditions can affect that RTK term; the ST30 specification does not remove those GNSS dependencies.
Also popular on Amazon
- Valued Carpenter Pencil Set: You will get 2 pcs solid carpenter pencils with 26 piece 2.8 mm refills, 1 replaceable sharpener, 1 plastic storage box.The complete carpenter pencils combination allows you to finish your work faster and more easily
- Deep Hole Marker Pencil: The deep-hole construction pencils adopts 45mm elongated tip design, which is more convenient to mark in the small hole or in other tight areas that other carpenter markers cannot reach
- Carpenter Pencils with Sharpener: The sharpener is screwed into the top of the work pencil, which won't get lost either. Built-in pencil sharpener that keep the lead with pointed and smooth to Improves line of sight in fine work
- Stronger Solid Lead: This work pencil is matched with a 2.8 mm thick lead , which is much thicker and stronger during the drawing process of construction work, it will not break or damage easily
- Marks on Various Surfaces: 3 colors solid construction pencil can marks on various surfaces,such as metal, plastic, wood, paper etc. Ideals for woodworkers, contractors, craftsmen, builders, merchants and masons
Trimble says the target can be used on the ground, overhead, right-side up or upside down. Dealer guidance nevertheless says accuracy is best closer to vertical. Treat the orientation statement as a flexibility feature, not permission to ignore the tilt term when setting acceptance tolerances. For high-precision layout, keep the rod as close to vertical as practical and document the tolerance required by the project.
Trimble’s published figures are available on its ST30 technical page. Ask for the current instrument-specific specification when a contract calls for a particular positional tolerance, because the total-station “TS” value is part of the calculation.
What is the ST30 tracking range?
The published active-tracking range is 1.5 m to 600 m. A dealer listing gives a passive-tracking range of 1.5 m to 500 m and an active range of 1.5 m to 600 m. The 600 m figure should therefore be understood as an active-tracking specification, not a universal range for every target mode, instrument or site.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsRange depends on a usable line of sight, the instrument and target configuration, atmospheric conditions and the tracking mode. A clear 600 m sightline on an open site is a different operating case from a partially obstructed building site. If a project routinely works beyond 500 m or around obstructions, ask the dealer which mode and instrument configuration are supported rather than relying on the headline number.
Passive tracking can be adequate for ordinary robotic work when the target is visible and the crew does not need the extra active-target capability. Active tracking is the relevant specification when the workflow relies on the ST30’s active signal. Record the required range in the method statement and confirm that the total station, radio and software support the selected mode.
How does automatic rod-height measurement help?
The ST30’s published automatic rod-height accuracy is ±0.6 mm, and its adjustable rod range is 1.55 m to 2.6 m. That combination is intended to reduce manual height-entry work when the target is repositioned for layout, as-built checks or changing elevation requirements.
Automatic measurement does not make the rod physically stable or eliminate setup discipline. The rod must still be locked at the intended height, seated correctly and kept within the project’s allowable movement. When a tolerance is tight, verify the measured height in the field software and compare it with the project control procedure rather than assuming that the quoted ±0.6 mm represents the complete point-position uncertainty.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteAlso popular on Amazon
- 【Great Compatibility】This Katerk 1/4 inch hex shank bit holder is specifically designed for 1/4 inch hex shank drill bits. It's compatible with most 1/4 fast hex handles, hex sockets, various electric screwdrivers, and handheld screwdrivers. The bit holder makes it a valuable addition for any handyman.
- 【Secure and Safe】Built with a secure backup nut design, each drill bit holder securely locks onto your bits, ensuring they stay firmly in place. Additionally, our bit holder incorporates a high-quality steel ball rolling design that holds up to several kilograms of weight, ensuring your various drill bits don't fall off.
- 【Easy One-Handed Operation】The bit holder for impact driver allows you to change bits single-handedly, simplifying your workflow. Its multi-color design further allows for quick identification of the drill bit you need.
- 【Compact and Convenient】Thanks to its compact size, this 1/4 inch bit holder is easy to carry around. The bit holder allows for easy attachment to various tools, making this a convenient addition to your construction accessories. The Katerk bit holder is cast from high-quality alloy material, promising a long product lifespan. Despite its rugged strength, the bit holder remains lightweight, making it portable.
- 【Cool Christmas Gift For Men Stocking Stuffers】 This screwdriver bit holder, driver bit holder, impact bit holder, can be given as a gift to your loved one, especially for anyone involved in construction or electrical work. It's a must-have for stocking stuffers for men and women, tools gifts for dad, tech gadgets for men, gifts for dad, gifts for him, gifts for husband, gifts for boyfriend, cool gadgets for men, and cool gifts for dad.
The 2.6 m telescopic rod appears in the premium dealer bundles. If a quotation includes the ST30 but not the rod, confirm whether the crew already has a compatible rod and whether the required height range is covered before removing the bundled rod from the order.
Which ST30 accessories and bundles are available?
There is no single universal package in the supplied listings. The physical ST30 hardware is offered in configurations that add different combinations of rod, top mount, batteries, charger, carrying case and radio module. Compare the line-item contents, not just the bundle name.
| Configuration described in the listings | Included items | Best fit | Important check |
|---|---|---|---|
| ST30 basic hardware | ST30 smart target hardware; exact contents depend on the seller’s configuration | Teams that already own a suitable rod, charger and controller radio | Obtain a written list of battery, cable, bag and mount contents. |
| Premium bundle with EM140 | ST30 basic hardware, perpetual premium configuration, 2.6 m telescopic rod with case and tools, additional Li-35 battery, ST30 top mount kit, dual battery charger with power supply and cord, and EM140 BLR radio module | Crews adding the target to a compatible robotic total-station and Empower-controller setup | Confirm the total station has BLR radio and DR Plus EDM and that the controller accepts EM140. |
| Premium bundle with rod and top mount | ST30 with antenna, one Li-35 battery, USB-C cable and soft bag, plus premium configuration, 2.6 m rod, additional Li-35 battery, top mount kit and dual charger | Teams that need a complete target-and-rod package but already have, or will source separately, the required radio path | Check whether an EM140 module is included; the cited bundle description does not list one. |
| BuildingPoint-listed package | Antenna, Li-35 battery, USB-C cable and soft bag are listed as included items | Buyers comparing a regional package or replacement hardware | Confirm the exact instrument and FieldLink version with the regional seller. |
Accessory contents can vary by region and dealer. The BuildingPoint Australia listing specifically calls out the antenna, Li-35 battery, USB-C cable and soft bag and recommends confirming the instrument and FieldLink version. Treat that as a regional listing, not a guarantee that every package worldwide has identical contents.
The top mount kit is relevant when the target must be mounted in the configuration required by the project or instrument. The extra Li-35 battery and dual charger matter for crews working full shifts or running more than one target. If the controller does not already have the required radio, the EM140 module can be a critical line item rather than an optional convenience.
Do I need an EM140 BLR radio module?
You need the EM140 for the dealer-listed full optical configuration when the Empower controller is the radio host. The compatibility descriptions pair an Empower-enabled controller with an EM140 BLR radio module and a supported S Series total station equipped with BLR radio and DR Plus EDM.
An EM140 is not automatically included in every ST30 package. One cited premium bundle includes it explicitly; another rod-and-top-mount bundle lists the target, rod, batteries, mount and charger without listing EM140. Check the exact bill of materials before assuming the radio is in the box.
If your workflow is GNSS-only or uses a different supported architecture, the radio requirement may differ, but that is a configuration question for the dealer. Do not infer compatibility from the presence of a USB-C cable or antenna. Those accessories do not confirm the controller-to-instrument radio path.
Also popular on Amazon
- Toolwiz 17-inch magnetic sweeper maintaining a load capacity of up to 8.8 pounds provides a perfect solution to the problem of clearing small ferrous metal objects, such as nails, tacks, bolts, and metal shavings from workshops or garage floors.
- Convenient and portable：17” is good for home, small workshop, or small yard as it is space-saving and more reachable for narrow areas. Perfect for collecting nails or small parts in the car, under the table, and in other nooks or crannies.
- Upgraded Handle Design: The handle features a sturdy, non-telescopic design to completely prevent slipping during use. By simply adding or removing the extension poles, the height can be adjusted to 3 different lengths: 18.9" (48 cm), 32.5" (82.5 cm), and 42.5" (108 cm) from ground to top. This customizable height helps prevent back bending and muscle strain, making your cleaning tasks effortless
- Flexible wheels: Upgrade wheel screws to avoid being too tight to spin or too loose. More comfortable 3-inch rubber wheels roll smoothly on carpet, grass, concrete, and hardwood floors. Just push and pull this rolling magnet-sweeper to pick up metal nails easily.
- Lightweight materials: The magnetic nail sweeper's compact and lightweight design makes the sweeping can be done anywhere you want, Push or pull it under the furniture, passing through the workshop floor, driveway, mud, grass, and gravel.
How does the ST30 fit optical and GNSS workflows?
The ST30 is designed for mixed workflows. Optical TIP links the target’s measured tilt to a compatible total station, while GNSS TIP combines the IMU information with RTK positioning. This can be useful when a site alternates between robotic layout, open-sky positioning and verification tasks.
Trimble announced that integrated high-accuracy GNSS would be offered as a separate subscription beginning in 2027. The announcement does not make that subscription a universal requirement for every optical use, so ask the dealer to state which features are enabled by the purchased configuration and which require the subscription in your region.
For a project that is entirely line-of-sight robotic work, the business case rests mainly on the target’s tilt, tracking, identification and height features. For a project that regularly moves between optical and GNSS control, the integrated receiver may reduce the need to change target hardware. In either case, confirm that your chosen Trimble Access, Siteworks or FieldLink workflow supports the operations you intend to perform.
How should a construction team choose an ST30 configuration?
Use the following decision sequence before accepting a quotation:
- Start with the instrument. Write down the exact S Series total-station model, BLR radio status and DR Plus EDM status. If any item is unknown, pause the order.
- Match the controller. Confirm that the field controller is Empower-enabled and that it can use the EM140 BLR radio module when the optical workflow requires it.
- Check software versions. Verify Trimble Access 2026.20 or later for the listed bundle, or obtain the correct FieldLink version for a Siteworks/FieldLink workflow.
- Define the measurement mode. Decide whether the project needs passive tracking, active tracking, optical TIP, GNSS TIP or a combination. This determines which specifications and subscriptions matter.
- Set a range requirement. Compare the 500 m passive and 600 m active dealer/manufacturer figures with the longest planned sightline, allowing for obstructions and practical setup distances.
- Set a tilt and tolerance requirement. Insert the total station’s TS accuracy and expected tilt angle into the published formulas. If the resulting allowance is too large, improve rod verticality or choose a different measurement method.
- Choose rod and power contents. Decide whether the 1.55–2.6 m adjustment range, 2.6 m telescopic rod, top mount, second Li-35 battery and dual charger are needed immediately.
- Confirm support and protection. Ask about regional inventory, software support, GNSS subscription terms and the availability of Trimble’s Protected Plus+ hardware protection plan.
What are the ST30’s practical limitations?
The main limitation is dependency on the surrounding Trimble system. A target can have the required sensors and prism, yet still fail to deliver the intended optical workflow if the total station lacks BLR radio or DR Plus EDM, the controller cannot host EM140, or the software is below the supported version.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Accuracy is also conditional. Tilt compensation adds an angle-dependent term, and GNSS performance retains the RTK error component. The target can be mounted in several orientations, but the best accuracy is expected closer to vertical. Long-range tracking needs a clear, workable line of sight, and passive and active ranges are not identical.
Finally, package contents and commercial terms vary. The ST30 was announced for ordering through Trimble’s global dealer network in Q4 2026, while the integrated high-accuracy GNSS subscription was announced for 2027. Regional stock, subscription pricing and Protected Plus+ availability should be confirmed locally rather than assumed from a web listing. Trimble’s announcement is available here.
Also popular on Amazon
- APPLY TO MOST DRILLS : 6 pieces screw extractors work with any drill and all the screw size or bolt (3-12mm), These extractor tools are used to reverse the damaged screw counterclockwise until it is released
- The DIY Tools for Men-Men won't know they need screw extractor set until they have one! This screw extractor set is GIFTS WRAP AVAILABLE, can be gifted to your loved ones as it reflects a fresh trend with fun and practical. Amazing and Unique tool gifts for men women. The must have stocking stuffers for men, gifts for dad, husband, father, him, guy teens, adult, Boyfriend, son on Birthdays, Christmas, Fathers Day or anniversary. Perfect Holiday Gifts Guide
- HIGH QUALITY - This damaged screw remover tool kit is made from High-Speed Steel H.S.S 4341# , which have high hardness of 63hrc, it's durable and easily to remove any damaged screws.
- EASY TO USE: Just two simple steps to get the job done - drill a hole with a cutting size using the right size screw extractor and easily remove the screw or bolt using the removal tool Hardness 63-65HRC: Titanium hardened steel material, more durable than most screw extractors on the market, better hardness and durability than others, buy with confidence and complete peace of mind
- Cool Gadgets for Men Dad Christmas Birthday Gifts for Men and Women - Men won't know they need screw extractor sets until they have one! Every screw has the potential to rust and break, which can create a situation where it cannot be removed. Owning it, there will be no anxiety about rusty screws. This screw extractor set is GIFTS WRAP AVAILABLE, can be gifted to your loved ones as it reflects a fresh trend with fun and practical. Amazing and unique tool gifts for men women. A must have stocking stuffer for men on birthdays, Christmas, Father's Day or anniversaries, a gifts for dads, husbands, fathers, him, adults, boyfriends, sons. The best and most practical and surprising Christmas gifts
What should be in the purchase record?
Keep a configuration sheet with the total-station model and serial number, BLR and DR Plus status, controller model, EM140 requirement, software version, intended tracking mode, rod-height range, included batteries and charger, top mount, antenna, cable, carrying bag, regional warranty or protection plan and any GNSS subscription terms. This prevents a common handover problem: receiving the target hardware but discovering that a radio, mount or software entitlement needed for the planned workflow was excluded.
Also record the published performance basis: optical H and V formulas, GNSS TIP formula, ±0.6 mm automatic rod-height figure and the active/passive range assumptions. Project managers can then compare the ST30 with the tolerances in the method statement without treating a headline specification as a blanket guarantee.
Recommended Free Tools
How we would decide whether the ST30 is a good fit
The ST30 is a strong fit when a construction or surveying team already operates compatible Trimble S Series and Empower equipment and wants one target for robotic optical work, tilt-aware measurements and selected GNSS tasks. It is less compelling when the crew has no compatible BLR/DR Plus instrument, does not need tilt or GNSS functions, or cannot justify the additional radio, software and subscription checks.
The decision should be based on system compatibility first, measurement tolerance second, and accessory convenience third. If those three checks pass, select the bundle that supplies the rod, mount, batteries, charger and EM140 items the crew would otherwise have to source separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the ST30 work with non-Trimble total stations?
The supplied compatibility information specifies supported Trimble S Series instruments with BLR radio and DR Plus EDM for the full optical configuration. It does not establish compatibility with non-Trimble total stations, so a dealer should confirm any alternative setup in writing.
Is integrated GNSS included permanently with every ST30?
Trimble announced that integrated high-accuracy GNSS would be offered as a separate subscription beginning in 2027. Ask the regional dealer which GNSS capabilities are active in the quoted configuration and what renewal terms apply.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Can I buy the ST30 without the 2.6 m rod?
The listings describe both basic hardware and bundles that add the 2.6 m telescopic rod. A basic package may suit a crew that already owns a suitable rod, but the seller should state the exact included items and supported height range.
Which ST30 range figure should be used in a method statement?
Use the range for the tracking mode and configuration actually specified: the cited figures are 1.5–500 m passive and 1.5–600 m active. The method statement should also account for line of sight, obstructions and the particular total station rather than relying on a single maximum number.
Where can contractors order the ST30?
Trimble announced ordering through its global dealer network in Q4 2026. Because inventory, package contents and protection-plan availability are regional, obtain a dealer quotation that lists every component and software requirement.
