Things to Consider Before Buying a Surveying Tripod

Surveying demands the most state-of-the-art equipment in order to ensure the accuracy and consistency of measurements. Among the most important pieces of equipment is the tripod that a surveyor uses. The Nedo Elevating Tripod is a new gadget that some may find useful — but is it worth the investment? Consider the following ten criteria to decide whether or not it’s right for you.

Weight

The first factor that you should consider when you’re looking at the Nedo tripod is its weight. Different Nedo models vary in weight, but many of them come in at just eight pounds — a very convenient weight for anybody who’s planning on toting their equipment around on a trek.

Stability

Stability is yet another vital characteristic of a reliable tripod, and the Nedo elevating tripod certainly meets this standard. Nedo is known for how remarkably stable its equipment is, thanks to their high standards of quality control. All units are rigorously tested for stability before leaving the Nedo factory.

Material

The material of the Nedo elevating tripod is yet another unique feature. These models are made from a European hardwood construction. This wood is then coated with plastic to ensure that it’s resistant to moisture. The plastic is a high-tech compound that’s specially designed to adhere to the wood and repel water.

Brand

You want to invest in a tripod from a brand that’s reliable—and you can’t do better than Nedo. Nedo has been designing and manufacturing industrial-grade tripods and surveying equipment for more than 120 years. In this time, the brand has developed a reputation for exquisite quality.

Budget

Of course, the importance of monetary constraints cannot be overlooked. Different tripods come in at different price points, and you might be tempted to opt for the cheaper selection. If you value accuracy and durability, though, you’ll be better off treating your Nedo tripod as an investment. It will pay off when you benefit from its reliability.

Height

Different projects require tripods of different heights, and you might be used to the hassle of toting around multiple tripods on a survey site. The elevating tripod from Nedo eliminates the need for this, though, by providing a proprietary elevation mechanism, making your tripod’s height entirely adjustable.

Tripod Head

The head of your tripod is one of its most vital parts. It must be as stable as the rest of the unit, and you need to know what kind you’re looking for, too. The three main options — threaded base, dome, or flat — are each suited to different uses.

Thread Size

If you opt for the Nedo unit with a threaded base head, you also need to know what thread size you will need. Most heads feature the universal size 5/8 x 11, which will be compatible with most standard surveying equipment. If you are using nonstandard equipment, though, you will need to seek out a head with the right thread size.

Portability

Surveying is a physically laborious endeavor. It often involves walking for long periods, so you need to invest in a Nedo tripod that can conveniently be moved between spots. Its weight as well as its ability to retract easily will both play a big role in how portable a tripod is.

Clamps

Finally, you must be sure that you find a tripod with the right kind of clamps. There are three common options to choose from — a screw clamp, a quick-release clamp, or a combination clamp — and the right one will depend on what kind of equipment you are using with your tripod.

Frequently Asked Questions