Surveying is the art and science of finding the position of specific points, as well as the distance and angles between them. A professional will use different types of survey equipment to map out these points, so they can establish maps and boundaries of ownership. The surveying process can also be used to determine the location of buildings, as well as any surface or subsurface features. But it can also be used for other purposes required by certain laws (such as property sales).
Surveying has been part of the building process since the beginning of human history. It’s a required step for any type of construction process. But it can also be used for transport, communications, mapping, and defining boundaries for land ownership. Regardless of the applications, surveying tools can be used to perform the following activities:
- Determining and measuring pieces of land and objects.
- Assembling and interpreting geographic information.
- Using that information for the administration of land, sea, and any other structures.
- Performing and developing research.
This process has been used for centuries, and it’s still being used today.
Types of Survey Instruments
There are several types of survey equipment, and some of them include:
- Theodolites
- Gyrotheodolites
- Total stations
- Robotic total stations
- Optical levels
- Survey GPS stations
- RTK GPS base stations
While the theodolite is an ancient instrument that has improved over the years, modern surveying tools (such as the total station) don’t need a reflector or prism to bring light pulses back to the device. They’re completely robotic and can even email data to a remote computer through a sophisticated GPS system.
Throughout history, horizontal angles were measured by a compass and would give them a magnetic bearing or azimuth. Now, more precise discs improve the angular resolution. Mounted telescopes with reticles that sit on top of a disc can make more precise measurements, which is the same method used in a theodolite. Now, levels and calibrated circles can measure vertical angles. And verniers or transits can measure to fractions of a degree.
Quality Surveying Tools from Engineering Supply!
Professional surveyors rely on quality equipment to do their work, which is why Engineering Supply should be your choice for top-of-the-line survey equipment. All of our products come from some of the best manufacturers in the industry. So when you buy a tool from us, you can be sure to get a quality product that will last for years. Surveyors need to work with equipment that can withstand extended use. And because of the quality of our products, Engineering Supply can be a one-stop-shop for all your surveying needs.
If you have been looking for the best place to find quality survey instruments, be sure to look at what we have in stock. We’re confident you can find a product that will meet your specific needs.