All laser scanners manufacturers offer dedicated 3D scanning software to their hardware. For beginner user it is good starting point for making decision – which software to choose? 3D scanner doesn’t exist without software I mean it exists, but it is useless. Because of that from the distributor you will get an offer for set of hardware and software equipment. In this article I will focus on what is better to know before buying transaction than discover it after. Enjoy reading!
Every purchase comes down to spending money. The more satisfied you are the more you buy spending less. If you had unlimited budget then you could buy any hardware or software on the market. You could also hire people able to handle all of this, right? But in that case why would you read this article? I know how exciting is buying new equipment, but I also know how hard is spending own money. Therefore, it is important that while analysing the technical parameters of the equipment and the functionality of the application, you also should have the following aspects in mind.
License
Check if 3D scanning software you are going to buy has lifetime license. I don’t mind if have all the time support and upgrade. But what I do mind is if you can use it without worrying that after some time the license will expire and program will stop running or will prompt entering a new activation key.
Support period
How long will you have free software updates and how much is the cost of renew? Unfortunately it is common practice that updating software after some period of time requires paying for intermediate versions. It might be that, for example, after 3 years you decide to update the program to the latest version. In that case, you will still have to pay for intermediate software versions that have appeared in the meantime. It is good to know that before buying software and in such situation update it regularly or even buy subscription. Ask if dealer offers long-term upgrade plans. At first, it may seem to be like a big investment for you, but it is worth considering such an expense. Software upgrades and updates can also be a part of price negotiations between you and distributor.
Known bugs and errors
What are the known bugs and errors in the software? When can you expect update and will you have the cost of this upgrade covered for free? Be sure to ask by email and keep the answer! Given in black and white that there are no errors it will be easier for you to enforce promises and other arrangements – this is the general rule.😉
Limitations of functionality
Check out what are the limitations in every software versions. When you negotiate hard, then maybe you can get cheaper offer, but with reduced functionality. For me it is fair as long as you will know the limits in advance, isn’t it?
The way of licensing
What is the way that distributor delivers software license? If you have choice, then think well which option is the best for you.
- software key (code) – usually it is a long string of random characters or small file. The license is assigned to a specific PC or server. Usually it is not allowed and even impossible to transfer such license to another machine. In case of hardware failure this kind of license can cause additional complications. Licensing using file is offered, among others, by Geomax in x-Pad Fusion.
- hardware key (dongle) – a tiny device similar to pen drive, which should be connected to the computer USB port. A much more flexible solution when it comes to using different computers. It is enough to connect the key into other PC and the software will work fully in accordance with the license. The minus is that if you lose the dongle you lose your license and will have to buy a new one. Also if you damage the dongle the only way is to send back to distributor and wait for a new one. It can take time and cost some additional fee. Such solutions are offered by, among others, Faro and Z+F. Ask distributor what is the policy in such cases.
- online access using login and password. This method is mostly used for applications that use web browsers. Web browsers have many limitations and you will not process data directly downloaded from scanner. This solution is mostly for sharing the point cloud rather than calculating or post processing. For example, in Pointscene 3D scanning software you can find simply viewing and dimensioning operations.
Single or server version?
Consider whether you will need a multi-user server version or just a single computer license? A very interesting solution in the server version is offered by Leica Cyclone 3D. Such version allows temporary “borrowing” of licenses to another computer.
Training
How much time does the distributor offer to train you? Basic training in using the 3D scanner shouldn’t take more than 1 or 2 hours. However, learning the basics of using the application can take a whole day or longer. Being able to use software is more than half of success, so one day training is minimum that will allow you to learn basic functions. It’s best for you, to have a second training after your purchase.
In my opinion the opportunity to meet after a month of using your equipment, and train on a self-acquired cloud points under the guidance of an expert By being more aware of your hardware and software, you’ll be able to go to a more detailed level. You can get into market much faster and conveniently. Initial training is overloaded with new information. From my training experience I noticed that only little of the first training knowledge stays in mind, especially when it comes to 3D scanning software. The additional training day (or few days) is a very good field to negotiate the terms of purchase with distributor.
Technical support
How long you can count on technical support? What is included in free service? What is the way of providing technical support? If there is an additional payable support, what extra you will get and for how long? There are many possibilities to provide support: phone calls, e-mails, closed forum, remote desktop, face to face meeting in distributor office or face to face in your environment. It is important whether the support will last for a year or two or for the duration of using the device. Be sure to keep the declaration by email.
Compatibility with output files
What type of file does the scanner offer, or whether there is a free conversion software? If you already use AutoCad or another such program, you may not need a totally new application at all. Check maybe you can buy and use kind of extinction like Revit or ReCap. Firstly you will save time learning everything from scratch, and secondly such solution may be cheaper than a license with a scanner!
All-in-one or single modules?
Does the software have a modular structure or is it in one functional version? For example, Leica Cyclone, Gexcel Reconstructor, or LFM are modular. Faro Scene and recently Z+F Laser Control appear in a specific, closed version. It is worth to consider what will be better, more efficient and more economical for you.
I’m sure I didn’t touch all of the 3D scanning software aspects. Those I mentioned are that customers usually forget to ask about and salesmen do not always communicate, or do it superficially. I encourage you to ask questions below, share this with friends and read my next articles on the blog. If you don’t want to miss my next article, you can always subscribe to the newsletter. I encourage you to read my previous article about 10 questions you have to answer before buying a laser scanner.
