Surveying Equipment

There are different ways to measure distance. The easiest method is counting footsteps from one location to another and making a value using footstep as unit of measure. Another simple method is using a foot rule or meter stick and recording how many sticks can be connected end to end to reach a certain location from a reference point. Long tape measures are an alternative to sticks and rulers, especially in measuring long distances.

These methods of measuring distance only apply if the surveyor’s purpose is to make a rough estimate or conclusion from the data gathered. However, if the distances obtained are to be used as reference for constructing a building or a road, they should be accurate. Accuracy is vital in a construction project, especially when dealing with the repetitive use of the same distance value such as in constructing a building with many stories.

Special surveying equipment are used in measuring dimensions required for constructing a building. Surveyors use leveling instruments to establish a true horizon upon which the floors of the building as well as the vertical components are patterned. They also use a transit to measure distances using other elements like angles.

These instruments, which can be purchased from companies like leica geosystems, are accompanied by other important surveying tools including tape measures, tripod and leveling rod. The tape measures can be made of steel or plastic depending on the manufacturers. Surveyors use these for short distance measurements wherein the main goal is to determine the angle from a particular point.

Using a tape measure to determine the distance ranging from 20 to 50 meters can produce significant error. Whether it is made of metal or plastic, it has a natural tendency to sag when stretched at a long span. This deflection increases the actual distance by few inches. Many surveyors resort to pulling each end tightly to reduce the sag, which tends to stretch the tape. The right instruments should be used for longer distances. These can be bought from manufacturers like leica geosystems.

Using the proper instruments to measure distances, whether short or long, is imperative because construction requires absolute accuracy. The smallest error can have disastrous consequences. This is why it’s important to make use of the correct devices necessary for the task, which can be acquired from leica geosystems and other manufacturers.