Run through this checklist before stationing and printing on any jobsite. Completing these checks reduces setup delays, prevents avoidable errors, and supports safe, efficient layout.
Floor and Site Conditions
- Surface is walkable and stable with no soft spots or hazards
- Printing area is clear of debris, dust piles, standing water, and loose materials
- Navigation paths are unobstructed — no pallets, cords, trash, or stacked material
Edge Protection and Fall Hazards
- Edge protection is installed around trenches, slab edges, slab openings, column diamonds, and other potential fall hazards
- Fall hazards in and around the print path are identified and guarded before the robot runs
- Edge protection is tall enough — at least 2" stops the robot from driving off the edge, but at least 7" is needed to print cleanly and accurately right up to the edge
🔍 Related: How Tall Should Edge Protection Be to Print Near a Slab Edge?
Control Points
- At least 3 non-collinear control points are accessible (more improves accuracy)
- Control marks are visible and not covered by dust, paint, or protection board
- Control points are not blocked by materials, equipment, or temporary structures
🔍 Related: Control Point Creation Requirements for Surveyors · How to Select Control Points for Better Stationing Accuracy
Tracker and Tripod Setup
- Tripod is placed on a stable surface
- Tracker is leveled to the center of the bubble
- No vibration from nearby tools, equipment, or foot traffic
- Clear line of sight to all required control points
- Radio is connected and powered
🔍 Related: How to Level the Tripod for Accurate Printing · Alternatives to the Tripod: Column Clamp or Wall Mount
FieldPrinter and Tablet Preparation
- Tablet is charged and the Dusty App is up to date
- FieldPrinter is powered on and connected to the Dusty App
- Hotspot or Wi-Fi is available if updates or Portal sync are needed (an internet connection is not required for FieldPrinter operation)
- Ink cartridges are installed and cartridge faces are clean
- Batteries are charged and backup batteries are available
🔍 Related: How to Install Ink Cartridges on FieldPrinter 2 · FieldPrinter 2 Battery Guide · AT500 Laser Tracker Battery Guide · Connecting the FieldPrinter Using a Phone Hotspot
Jobsite Coordination
- Active work in the printing area is paused or rerouted
- Nearby trades are informed that automated layout is underway
- Clear boundaries are set in the Dusty App if needed
- Printing area is protected from overhead work or lifts
Print File Readiness (Portal)
- Layers and line styles are configured correctly
- Correct project, building, and level are selected on the tablet
🔍 Related: Changing Line Styles for a Specific Layer on the Tablet · Setting a Layer to Reference Visibility on the Tablet · How to Publish a File for Control Points
Stationing and Verification
- Reflector is placed correctly on each control point
- All error values are reviewed and within acceptable limits
- Verification point is checked, if required
- No unexpected warnings appear on the Station tab
🔍 Related: Troubleshooting High Error Values During Stationing · Understanding Station Information: Distance and Station Errors · How to Set Up and Use the Verification Reflector
Final Safety Check
- Trip hazards are cleared from the work area
- Robot path is reviewed for edges, drop-offs, or obstructions
- Operator has full visibility of the robot during printing
- Exits and walkways remain clear of stored materials