If your work area is too congested for a floor-standing tripod, or obstructions like conduits block the laser's line of sight, you can mount the laser tracker on a column clamp or a wall mount instead. This article explains both options, the parts you need, and the safety and accuracy precautions that apply. It applies to both the AT500 and AT930 laser trackers.
Note: If your only concern is someone bumping the tripod, you may not need an alternative mount. Use the Verification Reflector to detect tracker movement automatically, and mark the tripod with high-visibility tape. These are the easiest solutions to start with.
When to Consider an Alternative to the Tripod
| Situation | Why an elevated mount helps |
|---|---|
| Congested floors with many workers in the print area | Removes the tracker from foot traffic, reducing the risk of bumps |
| Conduits, stub-ups, or material blocking the laser | Raises the tracker above floor-level obstructions for a clear line of sight |
| Fixed, repeated setups (e.g., printing in the same bays or beds daily) | A permanent mount keeps the tracker in the same position relative to your control points every day |
Before You Start: What You're Responsible For
- You source and purchase the mounting parts yourself. These are common surveying components for total stations and laser trackers. Dusty does not supply or warranty them.
- You are responsible for correct, secure installation. The laser tracker is a precision (and expensive) instrument. If a mount fails, the tracker falls.
- Any flex or give in the mount will produce inaccurate prints. The mount must be rigid — both for protecting the tracker and for layout accuracy.
- Because this is not an out-of-the-box setup, contact Dusty Support before your first installation so we can help you prepare.
Option 1: Column Clamp (No Drilling Required)
A heavy-duty column clamp straps to a structural column with a built-in ratchet strap — crank it tight and go. This option works when drilling into columns or walls is not allowed.
Parts Needed
| # | Part | Example part number |
|---|---|---|
| A | Heavy-duty column clamp | SitePro 4852-16 |
| B | Optical plummet tribrach | 2152-04-GRY |
| C | Rotating tribrach adapter | Seco 2020-00 |
| D | 5/8-11" to 3-1/2-8" thread adapter | Seco 2130-00 |
| E | Hexagon AT quick release mount | 576338 |
This parts list applies to both the AT500 and AT930.
Assembly Order
- Strap the column clamp (A) to the column. Crank the ratchet strap tight. The clamp must sit flush and stable against the column — this is the most critical connection in the whole setup.
- Thread the tribrach (B) onto the clamp's 5/8-11" male thread. Tighten fully.
- Seat the tribrach adapter (C) into the tribrach (B) using the tribrach's quick-release latch. The three brass prongs must engage snugly — if they are loose, the tracker can rotate during use.
- Thread the thread adapter (D) onto the tribrach adapter (C).
- Thread the AT quick release mount (E) onto the adapter (D).
- Mount the laser tracker onto the quick release.
Tip: Pre-assemble parts C, D, and E into a single unit with thread-locking adhesive (e.g., Loctite) and leave them connected permanently. This avoids re-assembling small threaded parts in the field and prevents thread creep.
Leveling on a Column Clamp
The tribrach (B) is what lets you level the tracker on a clamp — use its leveling screws the same way you would adjust tripod legs, and finish leveling against the tracker's digital bubble (see Physical Bubble on Laser Tracker Does Not Match Digital Bubble on Radio Box).
Stability Checklist (Run Before Every Use)
Check these in order of severity:
- Column clamp is stable against the column — no rocking or sliding.
- Thread connection between clamp (A) and tribrach (B) is tight. Leaving them connected between uses helps.
- Thread connection between tribrach (B) and tribrach adapter (C) is tight.
- Tribrach quick-release prongs (C into B) are snugly engaged — a loose engagement lets the tracker rotate.
- No thread creep between C, D, and E — thread-locker and leaving them permanently assembled prevents this.
⚠️ Warning: The most common failure reported is the tracker adapter slipping or unthreading when not properly secured. Re-check every connection before stationing.
Option 2: Wall Mount (Drilling Required)
A fixed wall-mount bracket bolts permanently to a wall or column. This is the best option for permanent installations where the tracker returns to the exact same position every day — but it requires drilling into the structure, so confirm that's allowed on your site first.
Parts Needed
- Hexagon wall mount fixture — non-magnetic wall-mount adapter, part 576940 (Wall Mount Fixture 0°/180° MAS80). There is no online purchase link for this part — contact Hexagon directly to order it.
- Hexagon AT quick release mount so the tracker can be removed and re-mounted without tools.
Installation Notes
- The fixture must be anchored so the mount has zero flex. Any movement at the mount becomes error on the floor.
- Pair a fixed mount with fixed control points. With both the tracker and control points permanently in place, daily stationing becomes a fast, repeatable routine.
Don't Forget the Radio
The tracker's radio box needs a secure home near the tracker. When the tracker is mounted high, plan a shelf, basket, or bracket for the radio on the same column — and make sure the power cord is strain-relieved so it cannot pull free.
Verify Before Printing
Whichever mount you use:
- Level the tracker using the digital bubble.
- Gently load the mount and confirm there is no movement or flex.
- Station as usual and review your error values.
- Use the Verification Reflector to catch any tracker movement during the job.