Mini Tripods - Big Impact in a Tiny Package

The Rothbucher RSFP‑X98 series mini tripods (also referred to as floor stands) represent a significant advancement in field‑survey mounting solutions, especially for professionals engaged in total station work, 3D scanning, GNSS setups and other precision measurement applications. These compact floor stands have been engineered to provide high repeatability, minimal setup error and exceptional portability, addressing the often‑understated sources of error in conventional survey setups such as pole plumbness, vertical centering error and cumbersome equipment transit. In many established workflows, survey and scanning professionals rely on full‑size tripods, tribrachs or poles where the target height is typically around 1.5 m (≈ 5 ft). At that height, even a minor tilt or bubble misalignment can introduce several millimetres of horizontal centering error due to the target being elevated and subject to instability or vibration. The RSFP‑X98 series rejects that paradigm by delivering a target‑or‑mount height of approximately 178 mm (under 20 cm), drastically reducing the potential for horizontal error caused by equipment tilt and virtually eliminating pole plumbness error. With the target so close to the reference point, the height factor that drives much of the random horizontal centering error diminishes to negligible levels.

Beyond horizontal accuracy benefits, the RSFP‑X98 series addresses vertical centering error through its fixed‑height platform. Traditional setups often require manual measurement of the height of target to instrument (for example from ground or known control‑point elevation) which introduces variability and error. The fixed‑height nature of these floor stands removes that human measurement step and the subsequent repeatability error, enabling tight alignment under total station observations and more reliable data in least‑squares post‑processing. The RSFP‑X98‑2 variant features a magnetic‑based “Fixed‑Point” interface (Rothbucher’s RSFP‑X90 fixed‑point mount) that makes it compatible with the broader One Point Fits All system of magnetic prisms, scanning paddles and control targets. Its legs fold in compact form, making it small enough to fit in a surveyor’s vest or backpack, yet robust enough for daily field use. The rubber‑foot design ensures stability on hard surfaces and soft ground alike and the built‑in level‑bubble provides quick, reliable alignment without the need for bulky leveling equipment.

Recognising the need for threaded mounting in certain workflows—especially GNSS/GPS receivers, surveying prisms or accessories with 5/8" UNC threads—the RSFP‑X98‑3 variant applies the same base structure but replaces the magnetic fixed‑point interface with a 5/8" thread connector. This allows direct attachment of industry‑standard GNSS antennas, prisms and other equipment, broadening the series’ applicability across control, scanning and drone mapping tasks. Both models maintain the same footprint, height, durability and portability; the only difference is the mounting interface. In use, a surveyor can pre‑set multiple RSFP‑X98 stands at control points, carry them in a vest or tool bag, and rapidly deploy one at each station without the need to carry full tripods or lengthy poles. This not only accelerates setup and teardown but reduces the risk of damage, misalignment and transport burden.

Field users also report improved workflows in scanning and BIM‑layout applications: with the RSFP‑X98 stands, they can place scan targets, paddles or prisms, begin a scan, move to the next station and deploy another stand in rapid sequence—all while maintaining the same XYZ coordinate referencing thanks to the fixed base height and known reference system. The reduced size and weight of the mini tripods also mean fewer logistical concerns: less space in vehicles, fewer awkward carry loads into tight building interiors, and significantly faster transitions between in situ setups. Despite the simplicity of the device, the impact on accuracy, repeatability and field efficiency is substantial.

In summary, the Rothbucher RSFP‑X98‑2 and RSFP‑X98‑3 mini tripods provide survey, scanning and mapping professionals with a compact yet high‑performance floor stand option. They minimise one of the largest uncontrolled error sources—pole plumbness and target height variability—while enhancing portability, setup speed and repeatability. Whether used for total station control points, GNSS base stations, 3D scan targets or drone ground‑control setups, this series offers a modern solution built for the rigours of survey and scanning workflows. By integrating into the broader One Point Fits All ecosystem, the RSFP‑X98 series aligns with workflows where a consistent XYZ reference across instruments is essential, making it not just a tool, but a foundational component of high‑precision geospatial field work.