Surveying Equipment
GPS Network Rover
When people talk about GPS they are usually speaking about the miracle of the GPS in their car telling them to turn right in 100 feet. This GPS Network Rover can deliver accuracies of within ½” over whole counties. It works by connecting into local or state established networks to receive corrections to the errors contained in stand-alone GPS readings. This equipment can be used with one operator which keeps costs down but it has one drawback, is it must have access to the internet and a reasonable view of the sky (limited obstructions.)
Total Station and Prism Pole
Since the early 90’s surveyors have been relying on this piece of equipment because it accurately records the angle and distance between two points using laser technology. While the Crew Chief stands at the Total Station (gun), the Rodman takes and places the Prism Pole (pole) on or next to the object to be located. The Total station is then accurately aimed at the pole and a reading taken and recorded. This piece of equipment is idea for areas covered by foliage but has the drawback of requiring a 2 person crew to use.
Robotic Total Station and Prism Pole.
This relatively new piece of technology is becoming a staple to our surveying. Like the total station, it accurately records the angle and distance between two points but now all the work is done from the Prism Pole and can be done with one person. Once the Robotic Total Station (robot) is set in position, it follows (tracks) the prism pole. So, while the surveyor is moving to a point the robot is turning and aiming at the prism. When you are ready to take a measurement, you remotely tell the robot to fire its laser and record the data. This equipment is ideal for construction applications. It is highly accurate and one person can operate the equipment while another can carry materials to layout the item to be built.
GPS Base/Rover System
This equipment is our workhorse. Just like the GPS Network Rover described above, it can deliver accuracies of within ½” over miles of terrain, but by using 2 units linked together we can eliminate the need for internet access and the errors contained in stand-alone GPS readings. This equipment can also be used with one operator keeping costs down but has the same drawback of needing a reasonably good view of the sky.
Other surveying equipment:
If you ever have the opportunity to poke around in the back of a surveyor’s truck, take the opportunity. Along with the high-tech equipment described here, you will find an arsenal of knifes, brush axes, snake bite guards and bug spray. Boots, gloves, hard hats and safety glasses will be in various locations, but lunch will be hidden behind the seat with a couple gallons of drinking water.
