BRIC5 Survey Tool

5th Generation

A high precision ruggedized survey tool designed for mapping in the harshest subterranean conditions. Accurately captures 3D vectors of azimuth, inclination, and distance. Uses Bluetooth to send measurements to mapping applications. Includes redundant sensors and advanced error detection for complete confidence in survey data.

Update Dec 19, 2025: BRIC5 Production Ending

After almost 5 years and 500 units built, I’ve had to make the difficult decision to end production of the BRIC5. I’m expecting a new baby in January and I won’t be able to support this project along with family and a full-time job. I still have a good supply of spare parts and will continue supporting the BRIC5 with repairs and maintenance; please email me at bricsurvey@gmail.com. Perhaps in a few years with more free-time I will come back with a new and improved BRIC6!

I wanted to thank some people who have helped me on this project over the years; this would not have been possible without you!

  • John Fioroni - Sales and shipping through the Cave Exploration Society and early field testing of units.

  • Rich Smith for integration into the Sexy Topo app

  • Marco Corvi for integration into Topo Droid

  • Paulina Piechowiak for integration into Qave

  • Aleksandar Stoev for integration into CaveSurvey

  • Lynn Brucker for precision calibration validation and field testing

  • L. Yusnaviel García-Padrón for Spanish translations

  • Domi Ros for translations in French and Spanish

  • Anri Hazday for Bulgarian translations

  • Caleb Crubaugh and Aaron Bird for reviews and instructional videos regarding calibration.

  • Mike Green for sales and shipping through Inner Mountain Outfitters

And most importantly I’d like to thank everyone that has purchased a BRIC! I hope they last for many more years to come.

- Kris Fausnight

Latest firmware:

BRIC4 Version 6.8 & BRIC5 Version 7.6 Released March 5, 2025

  • Fixed bug in quick-Azimuth calibration which could cause calibration to fail and revert to default values.

  • Added feature to allow normal operation with a failed sensor.

  • Eliminated laser time-out during calibration and loop test.

  • Improvements to loop test; error message and ability to undo a leg

BRIC4 Version 6.9 & BRIC5 Version 7.7 Released April 24, 2025

  • Reduced compass “Failed Sensor” threshold to account for low magnetic fields in South America. Was causing false failures.

 Features

High Accuracy

  • Azimuth: <0.2° Precision, <0.4° Accuracy

  • Inclination: <0.1° Precision, <0.2° Accuracy

  • Distance: 1mm Precision, 3 mm Accuracy

  • Detailed calibration report generated for each calibration. Saved to device and viewable through main screen.

  • Redundant sensors and advanced error detection ensure complete confidence in data.

    • 2x PNI RM3100 Magneto-Inductive Magnetometers

    • 2x Murata SCA3300 Industrial MEMS Accelerometers

Rugged Construction

  • Waterproof (IP-67) and floats

  • Shockproof construction

    • Integrated sensor assembly unit on rubber isolators

    • 3D printed HP MJF Nylon Case and Polycarbonate top.

  • Membrane-style switches impervious to mud and water.

  • Sealed USB-C Port

  • Pre-installed Screen Protector

  • Internal desiccant to prevent fogging/icing

  • Weight & Dimensions:

    • 300 grams (0.66 lbs)

    • 17.5 x 8.1 x 3.8 cm (6.9 x 3.2 x 1.5 inches)

Bluetooth Data Transfer and Control

  • Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) 4.2

  • Measurement data transfer to survey applications for digital surveying

  • Remote control of instrument via bluetooth

  • “Scan” mode performs 1-10Hz continuous measurements for pseudo-lidar

  • Compatible with most survey applications.

    • TopoDroid

    • CaveSurvey

    • SexyTopo

    • Qave

Easy To Use and Calibrate

  • Large LCD screen and intuitive interface

  • One large external button for turning on/off and taking measurements.

  • 4-button keypad for options, calibration, etc.

  • Simple calibration routines, no external equipment or software required.

    • 15 minutes for full calibration

    • 3 minutes for quick-Azimuth calibration

  • All data logged on device in .csv files and viewable on the main screen.

  • USB-C port for data-transfer and charging.

    • 1800 mAH rechargeable lithium battery

    • Estimated 100 hours of use

Review of the BRIC5 by Caleb Crubaugh

“BRIC5 Survey and Calibration” on youtube.com

Review by Aaron Bird at the 2021 NSS Convention

“Evaluation of the BRIC4 cave-surveying device”