Selecting the Right Survey Equipment and Tools
Taking accurate measurements over long distances calls for the use of specialized equipment. It is easier to select the right survey equipment for any project once you have a clear idea of the advantages and drawbacks of equipment and tools for surveying land. Here are a few pointers for picking tools to measure distance and changes in elevation along with additional equipment for land surveys.
Land Surveying Tools
The first steps toward doing a survey include picking a plot of land to measure and deciding on a measurement method. There are a variety of different types of equipment that you can use depending on the distance, type of terrain and necessary level of accuracy.
Laser distance meters are among the most accurate measurement tools for land surveying. Levels can also be used to determine variations in elevation. Other specialized measurement tools include theodolites or transits for measuring horizontal and vertical angles. Once you have taken measurements, placing markers can indicate how much of the area you have covered.
Surveyors often need to locate magnetic markers put in place by previous surveyors. A survey may also account for certain metallic features such as pipes, underground tanks, manhole or utility covers. Magnetic locating tools are another useful type of equipment for surveying.
Additional Survey Equipment
You may need to use wayfinding equipment when surveying land that is located off of the grid. Global positioning satellite data can indicate your location when network access is available. Historical and modern-day surveyors also rely on basic equipment such as compasses to identify directions and clinometers to measure the angle or elevation of slopes.
In the past, surveyors used chains for measurement. Some of the most common types of chains for surveying are Gunter’s chains or surveyor’s chains, band chains and engineer’s chains. Chains are still used for some applications, as are measuring tapes and wheels.
Digital measuring wheels capable of keeping track of measurements and storing past values make using this manual method easier. In general, the accuracy of manual measurements falls far short of laser distance meters and other advanced digital methods.
Gear Up for a Survey
Engineer Supply offers all of the surveying gear you could possibly need. For the most accurate surveys, you might need an electronic distance measuring instrument and the appropriate rods, poles, prisms or reflectors. Basic hand tools such as an ax and saw may also be necessary for clearing sightlines if you take this approach.
If you do not take measurements often enough to justify investing in advanced electronic equipment, a smart measuring wheel can be a good alternative. Keep the terrain you need to measure in mind, as a twin-wheel model can provide more stability.
Land surveying is easier when you have the right survey equipment for obtaining accurate measurements. Laser distance meters are much more accurate than measurement wheels, surveyor’s chains or other analog measurement tools when properly set up and calibrated. Consider the parameters of surveying projects and your equipment budget to choose the best equipment with which to measure distances and changes in elevation.
