Introduction to MC MAX

In 2024, Topcon really started to push the release of MC MAX. The transition from their older x53i and x53x series running v13, to the new XMAX running v15 saw a software upgrade, hardware changes and a new wiring configuration. Let’s take a closer look!

Excavator	Dozer
New GR-i3 Antennas	New GR-i3 Antennas
New TS-i4 IMU Sensors	New TS-i4 IMU Sensors
Upgraded version of 3DMC	Upgraded version of 3DMC
	Mastless

 

From an operator’s point of view, the biggest change they’ll notice is the new graphics on 3DMC…

 

 

The most noticeable software changes include…

• Terrain surfaces
• 3D view of machine
• More blade tilt information
• Shortcut to the ‘site’ screen

The MC MAX dozer system differs greatly from the x53i system. The first major change is that the MC MAX system is now mastless, and the GNSS receivers are mounted on the cab roof – thus meaning, our dozer now has IMU sensors fitted to help compute blade angles.

Topcon’s new TS-i4 IMU provide greater angular information than the TS-i3 which were used with the x53i and x53x excavators. The use of an IMU sensor paired with new GR-i3 GNSS receivers which feature a faster update speed, gives the MC MAX systems a slicker way of working.

 

Excavators running MC MAX look pretty similar to the x53x system, however the upgrade opens excavators up to much more advanced technologies. Running MC MAX has broadened the scope of tilting/rotating attachments which are compatible with Topcon machine control. We can now use Steelwrist, Engcon, and Rototilt attachments with a MC MAX system on an excavator, and we begin to move into the world of automatic excavators. Like we have automatic grade on dozer systems, the technology built into MC MAX excavators means that with the correct hydraulic block – our excavator can do the exact same thing! By programming the system to do so, we can ask the excavator to assist whilst trimming to level at the push of a button.

With the release of MC MAX, Topcon are constantly working hard with their users to make this system even better than before. They are listening out for recommendations and features people would like to see. So far, we are really impressed with MC MAX, and we’ve received lots of positive feedback from our customers who are using the system.

Interested in adding machine control to your fleet, or upgrading your current machine control assembly? Give us a call on 01244 821777 or complete our *contact form*.