How to Maintain Your Survey Equipment

It is important for any survey being done to be accurate, as measurements are used for construction purposes, to set land boundaries, or to evaluate property features for material needs. To increase the longevity of your surveyor tools and keep your evaluation findings as precise as possible, you need to properly maintain your survey equipment. Here are some tips for caring for your equipment.

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Service Instruments Each Year

For those using total stations, the exposure to different environments and the constant movement during transport in setup requires an annual service check. These are some of the higher precision instruments used in the field, and a professional tune-up can keep positioning capabilities on track and primed to their optimal state. Think of this maintenance as getting the oil changed on your car. You risk failure the longer it goes without being serviced.

Stay Current With Updates

Software updates for your surveying instrument may be released once a year, but generally, updates occur several times a year. An update helps correct any bugs in the system and improves overall performance. It's best to get on a software support plan with the manufacturer to stay current on updates.

Conduct Field Checks

You should conduct a field calibration test on your total stations every two weeks. Many instruments have the ability to conduct a calibration while on-site, including GPS receivers. Use a known, fixed-site as a control point to check on measurement specifications. It is best to do this on every set up to keep your reporting as precise as possible.

Use the Carrying Case

Though a simple step, protecting your equipment during transport is a key part of maintaining optimal performance. The case is rugged and durable, reducing the potential for throwing off the calibration whenever the instrument is knocked around or dropped. GPS receivers that get bumped or mishandled can experience inaccurate positioning when a level bubble gets misaligned. Don’t carry your equipment in the bed of the truck. Keep it in the cab with you.

Watch the Working Conditions

Your equipment has been built to withstand rain and some harsh environments, but too much exposure can damage your instrument. You don’t want moisture getting into the mechanical areas. Use a rain shield whenever possible, and avoid letting your equipment sit out in extreme cold, heat, or dust.

Avoid DIY Fixes

These instruments are extremely precise, making significant repairs a job for the professionals. You can tighten screws, but consider calling the seller or manufacturer for all other problems.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is An Early Warning Sign of Equipment Malfunction?

Blog how to maintain your survey equipment

Whenever you experience a lack of consistency in measurements, it may indicate a problem. Components that seem abnormally tight or loose could also mean an inspection is needed. Total stations that show extreme signs of wear could have wiring difficulties internally that are throwing off measurements.

How Do You Clean a Surveying Instrument?

You can take care of dirt and grime with soap and water. You don’t ever want to submerge equipment in water, but the overall housing can withstand some moisture. Alcohol wipes are also acceptable, though you should only use manufacturer recommended lens cleaning cloths to wipe the lens on a total station.

How Long Do These Instruments Last?

With the right maintenance, your equipment should last for years. The instruments are designed to handle the rugged conditions of construction sites, and continuous software updates keep the positioning services accurate. Don’t assume that you can mishandle the instrument because of manufacture claims about durability.

Are There Electrical Concerns During Weather Situations?

Surveying instruments operate off battery power, with the battery and housing unit designed for outdoor. A short circuit failsafe is included in most market options, though the battery needs to be properly connected and maintained to be effective. Don’t let batteries sit in the units when not in use, and keep them free from corrosion.

Do I Need Training To Do a Field Adjustment?

Your instrument should have come with an operator’s manual. This information is the manufacturer’s instructions for adjusting or servicing your equipment. There are general care principles, such as those discussed, but more advanced care or maintenance should be conducted by an experienced technician. You don’t want to damage the equipment.

If you are in the market for new surveying equipment, consider the selection at Engineer Supply. You will find quality and durability in your purchase, as these tools are manufactured by industry leaders.