Introduction To Total Station
The main instrument for surveyors on site today is the “total station”. A total station is a combination of an electronic theodolite, an electronic distance measuring device (EDM) and a micro processor with memory unit. This combination makes possible to determine the coordinates of a reflector aligning the instruments cross hairs on the reflector and simultaneously measuring the vertical and horizontal angles and slope distances. A micro processor in the instrument takes care of recording, readings and the necessary computation.
Advantages Of Total Station
- Quick setting of the instrument on the tripod using laser plummet.
- On- board area computation programme to compute the area of the field.
- Local language support.
- Full GIS creation(using mapinfo software).
- Automation of old maps.
- Greater accuracy in area computation.
- Graphical view of plots and land for quick
- Integration of data base.
- The area computation at any user required scale.
- The field jobs are finished, the map of the area with dimensions is ready after data transfer
- It’s reduce the time & also it’s measure up to 3 to 5 Km distance.
Disadvantages Of Total Station
- It may be difficult for the surveyor to look over and check the work while surveying.
- the instrument is costly. And conducting surveys using total station, skilled personnel are required.
- for an over all check of the survey, it will be necessary to return to the office and prepare the drawings using appropriate software.
PRECAUTION TO BE TAKEN WHILE USING A TOTAL STATION:
- Use both hands to hold the total station handle.
- Set up the tripod as stable as possible.
- Do not move or carry a tripod with the total station fixed on it, except for centering.
- Store the battery pack with the battery discharged.
- Do not over tighten any of the clamp screws.
- Take maximum care when the tribrach is removed from the total station.
