Total Stations

the Surveyor's Workhorse

Journal article (2016)

Authors

M.J.P.M. Lemmens OLD Department of GIS Technology
Research Group
OLD Department of GIS Technology
Copyright: © 2016 M.J.P.M. Lemmens
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Published Date

2016-10

Language

English

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Research Group

OLD Department of GIS Technology

Abstract

A total station is an angle measuring device, also known as a theodolite, integrated with an electronic distance measurement (EDM) unit. The integration provides the ability to measure horizontal and vertical angles as well as slope distances using the same device at the same time, which benefits the surveyor in terms of portability, convenience and speed. Today, total stations have a wide variety of capabilities and are extensively exploited in cadastral surveying, civil engineering and on construction sites. The author provides a synopsis of features, status and trends.