Crain Tri-Max Standard Dual Clamp Tripod TRIMAX 90553

On sale until Christmas 2009 for only $284.99

Tri-Max tripods are certified to meet or exceed ISO Certification Standards - making it the only tripod on the market with certifiable accuracy. All new Tri-Max tripods come equipped with a serial number on the hinge assuring you that the tripod has successfully passed all necessary testing and is certified to meet the ISO 12858-2-H standards.
Crain has now put the Tri-Max to the ultimate test, the ISO 12858-2-H. Not only did we test the Tri-Max, but we tested nine of the best selling tripods on the market. The results were gratifying; the Tri-Max was the only tripod that passed the test. We're so convinced of the accuracy and stability that the Tri-Max can provide, we back it up with a 5-year warranty.
As instruments become more accurate, tripod stability becomes more important. The horizontal accuracy of any surveying instrument can be directly affected by the stability of the tripod used with it.
Without exception, no other tripod even comes close to delivering the stability and performance of the Tri-Max tripod!
The patented Tri-Max is truly a next generation tripod and is the only tripod that will truly meet your needs!
With rugged construction throughout, the design features premium materials including advanced fiberglass composite.
Try one for yourself; if in your professional judgment, you determine the Tri-Max. is not the best tripod available, we'll refund your money! This money back guarantee on the Tri-Max is valid for 60 days, given the tripod is in "like-new" condition.
The Tri-Max outperforms all other tripods for functionality, special applications, accessories, and ergonomics.
Model
Retracted Height
Extended Height
Weight
Standard Tri-Max(#90550 & #90551)
44"
71"
16 lbs.
Tall Tri-Max(#90560 & #90561)
54"
91"
20 lbs.
Tri-Max Dual Clamp(#90553)
44"
71"
16.4 lbs.
Tri-Max Fixed Leg(#90570)
N/A*
N/A*
20 lbs.
*Tri-Max Fixed Height Tripod (#90570) is adjustable by wrench only and is adjustable between 54" - 91".
The past half-century has seen an incredible evolution in surveying/positioning instrumentation; from one-minute theodolites to present day one-second total stations, GPS, laser systems, and now servo-driven, laser scanning, photogrammetry, robotic, and machine control systems. Evolutions in instrumentation have significantly increased the demands on support platforms (tripods). Precision has increased substantially, typical set-up durations are much longer, and efficiency expectations are also greater. Additionally, today’s instruments tend to be much heavier and have larger wind sail areas. Torsional load from servo-driven and robotic instruments apply particularly severe loads (Note: Compensators, including 2-axis, do not correct horizontal drift).
Over the years, conventional tripod designs have essentially remained the same. The few design changes that have occurred, consisted mainly of several new leg locks, material substitutions, and cost reductions. Modern requirements, particularly those for substantially increased tripod stability have gone unanswered.
Crain’s revolutionary Tri-Max tripod, stands alone in meeting today’s demanding stability requirements. In fact, tests have confirmed that the Tri-Max, in many cases, is more than 100 times more stable than conventional tripods, and retains this stability in use, without frequent adjustments, in the face of commonly encountered field conditions such as age, wind, fatigue, contamination, wear, temperature, moisture, and humidity. What is the direct result of the superior stability that exists in the Tri-Max? Significant increases in realized accuracy (closure) is not just possible, but common! Unparalled-no other tripod even approaches the Tri-Max’s performance!
To develop the Tri-Max, ultra-modern materials and processes were combined. This next generation tripod was created using computer aided modeling and analysis techniques. A unique hinge spindle design permits leg rotation yet prevents lateral movement. Legs are connected with a rigid adhesive that never loosens regardless of age and environmental exposures. The entire structure is designed to dampen vibration and resist creep.
Composite extensible legs are formed in a continuous wedge profile that allows more locking force to be developed by hand clamping than conventional tripods develop with their locking systems engaged. The Tri-Max is not only significantly better than all other tripods; it actually creates a new standard for tripod performance.
Retaining System
A popular feature, the kick out prevention system (standard) is designed to prevent instrument falls on slick surfaces and from persons tripping on a leg. The system stores on the inside of the leg or can be left in place. This feature does not interfere with plummeting or instrument person’s stance. One “save” is all it takes!
Accessories
A number of accessories are available for the Tri-Max Series tripods. They include leg bags, storage bags, retractable points for finished floors, foot spikes, plates for unstable terrain, and equipment attachment snap-rings.
Advanced Designs
In addition to outstanding stability, the Tri-Max tripods are loaded with other important and practical features.
Tri-Max tripods feature a large, round head that is precision turned. The mounting hole is also large to aid plummeting.
Snap cap head cover (standard) attaches without screws and has a retainer strap included.
Ergonomic designs include a wide carry strap (standard) with shoulder pad and a carry handle (also standard), which is unique to the Tri-Max and far more comfortable than hole-in-leg handles.
Another Tri-Max exclusive feature is the open leg design, which facilitates mounting of equipment bags, data collectors, batteries, and many other accessories directly to the tripod’s legs. Removal is not necessary when the tripod is collapsed and stored. Additionally, convenient utility rings (standard), for attaching accessories, are provided on the center leg caps and on the tripod’s feet.
Tri-Max® Foot
The Tri-Max features a large footbed to better facilitate solid “planting” for stability. The shape of the foot is designed to solidly engage terrain, is equipped with a replaceable steel point, and is designed to accept a number of unique accessories. A special applications attachment/retention loop is provided on the rear of the foot.
The foot’s superior strength is clearly demonstrated when it is driven into a log with a sledgehammer, without failure!
Locking Systems
Two new locking systems are available: Quick Clamp (lever-cam) and Screw Clamp (knob-screw) styles. Both styles are ergonomic, positive-locking, and field reversible to the inside as shown. On tall models, an additional thumbscrew style lock is also standard. A fixed-leg model (collapses for shipping) is also available. Wedge profile legs can actually lock by hand clamping! All Tri-Max locking systems are designed to form a single unified rigid instrument platform system.
Unstable Terrain
Tall Tri-Max tripods can be equipped with accessories, which permit stable performance on unstable terrain conditions such as mud, snow, frost, tundra, wetlands, and sand. Stability is attained by isolation of the tripod feet from the user’s feet, reduction of subsidence, and increased base span. Only the Tri-Max overcomes these difficult terrain conditions.

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