Trimble RTS 573
The Trimble RTS573 is for contractors who need to significantly improve layout accuracy and efficiency. This tool helps reduce costly reworks from manual errors, saves time with single-person operations, and improves layout speed.
If you're looking to invest in superior project accuracy, we have the RTS573 for sale to meet your needs. However, if you're not ready to make a purchase, we also offer rentals. An RTS573 rental allows you to see the tool in action on your site with the added benefit of managing project-by-project expenses.
A Tool Built for the Modern Job Site
The Trimble RTS573 offers many advantages, including:
- Extended range and flexibility: This tool features the unique Trimble DR Plus EDM technology. You can use the Trimble RTS573 to capture long-range measurements accurately without a prism. The RTS573 also uses direct reflexes to measure distances of up to 1,300 meters, allowing you to capture shots on large worksites efficiently.
- Unmatched speed and precision: With the MagDrive Servo technology, you can complete your layout tasks faster. This Trimble technology delivers ultra responsive control, enabling faster prism tracking and locking, which helps reduce wait times between points. The silent motor allows for quiet operation, minimizing disruptions on already noisy job sites.
- One-person robotic operation: The RTS573 transforms a two-person job into a one-person job, allowing you to redirect your crew members to other tasks.
- Works with Trimble FieldLink: The RTS573 pairs with Trimble FieldLink software running on a Trimble field tablet, so your office and field teams work from the same data. Layout points go out to the field, as-built data comes back, and both sides stay on a single source of truth.
Trimble Robotic Total Station Comparison
All three Trimble robotic total stations turn a two-person layout job into a one-person job. The differences come down to the EDM, the camera, and the pointer.
|
Feature |
RTS573 |
RTS673 |
RTS773 |
RTS873 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Angle accuracy |
3″ |
3" |
3″ |
3″ |
|
EDM technology |
DR Plus |
DR HP |
DR HP |
DR HP |
|
Reflectorless range (90% reflective surface) |
Up to 1,300 m (4,265 ft) |
Up to 150 m (492 ft) |
Up to 150 m (492 ft) |
Up to 150 m (492 ft) |
|
Trimble VISION camera |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Tracklight |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
|
Telescope eyepiece |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No (fully remote) |
|
Laser pointer |
Red |
Red |
Red |
Green, autofocusing |
Which One is Right For Your Crew?
- Choose the RTS573 if most of your layout is prism-based, and you want long-range reflectorless reach for as-builts, site shots, and large work areas.
- Choose the RTS673 if you need the same angle accuracy as the RTS573 with the more accurate EDM, and you don't need the VISION camera.
- Choose the RTS773 if you want VISION video-assisted measurement and higher precision on reflectorless shots at closer range, such as overhead points.
- Choose the RTS873 if you want the autofocusing green laser for visibility in bright light and fully remote operation from the controller.
Still deciding? Contact us to learn more about which solutions and services best suit your needs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Trimble RTS573 Robotic Total Station?
The Trimble RTS573 is a robotic total station designed for precise measurements and efficient layout tasks in construction.
What is the accuracy of angle measurements with the Trimble RTS573?
The horizontal angle measurement accuracy is 3″, and the vertical angle measurement accuracy is 2″. (Note that these are arc seconds; not inches.)
How long can the Trimble RTS573 operate on a single battery charge?
With one internal battery, it operates for approximately 6.5 hours.
What environmental conditions can the Trimble RTS573 withstand?
The Trimble RTS573 can operate in temperatures ranging from -20°C to +50°C (-4°F to +122°F) and has IP55 dust and waterproofing protection.
What software is compatible with the RTS573?
The Trimble RTS573 is compatible with several software offerings from Trimble. Our favorite is Trimble FieldLink. This software enables seamless office-to-field communication. With its data collection capabilities, you will have a single source of truth for the entire team.
Can the Trimble RTS573 measure without a prism?
Yes. Trimble DR Plus EDM takes reflectorless measurements at long range: up to 1,300 m (4,265 ft) on a 90% reflective surface in normal conditions, and up to 600 m (1,968 ft) on an 18% reflective gray surface. Range depends on the surface, light, and atmosphere.
What is the robotic range of the Trimble RTS573?
Under standard conditions, the RTS573 locks onto and tracks passive prisms at 500 to 700 m (1,640 to 2,297 ft) and a Trimble MultiTrack Target at up to 800 m (2,625 ft). Prism-mode distance measurement reaches 2,500 m (8,202 ft) with a single prism.
How is the Trimble RTS573 different from the RTS773 and RTS873?
All three offer 3″ angle accuracy and one-person robotic operation. The RTS573 uses DR Plus EDM for long-range reflectorless shots and includes a Tracklight. The RTS773 and RTS873 use DR HP EDM, which favors precision at shorter reflectorless distances, and add Trimble VISION video-assisted measurement. The RTS873 also adds an autofocusing green laser pointer and removes the eyepiece for fully remote operation.
Should I buy or rent the Trimble RTS573?
Buy when layout is a regular part of your work and you want the instrument available on every project. Rent when you want to test the workflow on one project, cover a spike in demand, or keep costs tied to a single job. We offer both, and our team can walk you through the numbers for your crew.
How much does the Trimble RTS573 cost?
Pricing depends on the configuration, including the field controller or tablet, software, and accessories. Request a quote and our team will put together a package based on your crew and the work you do.
Ready to Put the RTS573 to Work?
Tell us about your crew and your projects. We will help you decide whether to buy or rent, which model fits, and how to get your team trained and running.
Key Features & Benefits
-
MagDrive technology for maximum speed and efficiency
-
MultiTrack technology offers the choice between passive and active tracking
-
Long range EDM to collect specific job site conditions
Where the Trimble RTS573 Fits on Your Job Site
The RTS573 is built for everyday building layout. Here is where crews put it to work.
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Concrete and structural: Set concrete forms, anchor bolts, and curbing from your design data, with one person running the layout from the field controller.
-
Site work: Stake retaining walls, landscape features, and utilities, and run grade checks without waiting on a second crew member.
-
MEP and general contractors: Take points from the model to the floor with Trimble FieldLink, so the layout in the field matches the plan in the office.
-
As-builts and light topo: Capture as-built points and light topographic data, including long-range shots without a prism using DR Plus EDM.
Not sure it fits your work? Talk to a BuildingPoint Southeast specialist.


