Leica RH18 Radio Handle is a state-of-the-art radio communication accessory engineered for seamless compatibility with Leica AP20 AutoPole and Leica Captivate field software. With dual integrated Bluetooth modules and a powerful radio modem, the RH18 is designed to facilitate fast, reliable, and interference-resistant communication between total stations and field controllers.
Whether you’re in construction, surveying, or geospatial data acquisition, the RH18 delivers robust data connectivity in a compact, durable format, enhancing both precision and productivity in the field.
Key Features at a Glance
Feature | Details |
| Bluetooth Integration | Dual Bluetooth modules with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) support |
| Radio Modem | Internal radio modem optimized for Leica Captivate total stations |
| Compatibility | Works with Leica AP20 AutoPole, CS20/CS30/CS35 controllers |
| Software Support | Designed for Leica Captivate field software |
| Frequency Range | Operates in the 2.402 – 2.480 GHz ISM band |
| Wireless Communication | Supports wireless link to external radio modems like TCPS30 |
| Precision Tilt Compensation | Enables AP20’s Tilt Compensation via BLE |
Why Choose the Leica RH18 Radio Handle?
1. Seamless Integration with Leica AP20 AutoPole
The Leica RH18 serves as the backbone of advanced communication for the Leica AP20 AutoPole, particularly when utilizing features like Tilt Compensation and automatic target recognition. The dual Bluetooth module configuration, including BLE, ensures low-latency communication with minimal power consumption, crucial for real-time, dynamic field operations.
2. Enhanced Total Station Communication
With a built-in radio modem, the RH18 is optimized to work seamlessly with Leica total stations such as the TS16, TS60, and TS13, all of which are part of the Leica Captivate ecosystem. Whether you’re conducting GNSS-assisted surveys, robotic total station work, or multistation data acquisition, the RH18 provides the communication bridge between instruments and field controllers.
3. Field Controller Connectivity
The RH18 allows direct radio communication with Leica field controllers like the CS20, CS30, and CS35. It can also establish reliable links with external modems like the TCPS30, providing versatile options for radio-based data transfer over extended distances.
Technical Specifications
Specification | Description |
| Product Model | Leica RH18 Radio Handle |
| Bluetooth | Dual modules; includes Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) |
| Radio Frequency Range | 2.402 – 2.480 GHz |
| Radio Type | Internal radio modem |
| Software Compatibility | Leica Captivate field software |
| Instrument Compatibility | Leica total stations (TS13, TS16, TS60, MS60, etc.) |
| Controller Compatibility | CS20, CS30, CS35, external modems (TCPS30) |
| Power Supply | Powered via total station (no separate battery required) |
| Environmental Protection | Built for rugged field use |
Wireless Communication Capabilities
The RH18 uses dual Bluetooth channels to manage communication both with the AP20 AutoPole and the CS-series field controllers, while also acting as a radio modem.
Communication Pathways
| From | To | Connection Type |
| AP20 AutoPole | RH18 | BLE |
| RH18 | CS20/30/35 Controllers | Bluetooth / Radio |
| RH18 | TCPS30 Radio Modem | Radio (2402–2480 MHz) |
| Total Station | RH18 | Direct Mount/Integrated |
This tri-layer communication system ensures minimum latency, reduced signal interference, and maximum compatibility with Leica’s digital ecosystem.
Optimized for Leica Captivate
The RH18 is engineered specifically for use with Leica Captivate, a powerful field software suite that simplifies 3D data capture, survey management, and geospatial modeling.
Key Advantages:
- Instantly connect instruments and controllers within CaptivateÂ
- Automate data transfer and reduce manual errorsÂ
- Simplify complex measurement routines with automatic synchronizationÂ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Leica RH18 compatible with older Leica total stations?
The RH18 is primarily optimized for Leica Captivate-enabled total stations, including TS13, TS16, TS60, and MS60. While it may physically attach to older models, full functionality—especially BLE and Captivate integration—may not be supported.
Does the RH18 require a separate power source?
No. The Leica RH18 is powered directly through the total station it’s mounted on. This eliminates the need for extra batteries or charging routines.
Can the RH18 work without the AP20 AutoPole?
Yes. While the RH18 is optimized for AP20 use, it still functions effectively as a radio modem for Leica total stations and controllers, even if the AP20 AutoPole is not in use.
What range can I expect from the radio modem?
The operational range depends on environmental conditions but typically falls between 300–500 meters, with longer distances possible in open environments when paired with external modems like the TCPS30.
How is the RH18 different from the RH17?
The RH18 includes several enhancements such as dual Bluetooth modules, BLE support, and full Captivate integration, making it more future-proof and better suited for advanced surveying tasks.
Is it difficult to set up the RH18?
Not at all. The RH18 is a plug-and-play device. Once mounted on the total station, it automatically interfaces with Captivate and can be connected to a controller in seconds.
Can I use it for robotic total station work?
Absolutely. The radio and BLE links allow for real-time robotic control, including stakeout, tracking, and dynamic point measurement.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.