Using a 2D reference, the Trimble® PCS400 paving control system can pave with a fixed thickness, making it an excellent, lower cost option for roads that have already been graded or milled with 3D machine control. By equipping the paver with one or three sonic tracers mounted on an averaging beam, the PCS400 uses the sonic tracers to send multiple sonic signals to reference off the existing surface. The average elevation is then calculated for paving a smooth surface.

A stringline can be used as a reference line to control the paver when the ST200 sonic tracer is configured properly. Measure any lateral movement of the machine relative to the stringline while in this more. And went the sonic tracer’s center moves away from the stringline, the PCS400’s control box will warn you and provide you with correction guidance.

You can also use the Trimble AS200 Angle sensor with the PCS400 to reference the desired cross-slope of the road. The AS200 was designed specifically for asphalt pavers and rarely needs recalibration. The angle sensor paves cross slopes of up to 0.5 percent accurately and consistently.