GeoMax Prism Assembly in Fluorescent Yellow

Your total station is a precision tool, but it only does what you tell it to. Accurate measurements start with proper setup. Start with a known point, then enter the station coordinates and orientation, and you’ll be ready to measure your next job. Here’s how. Continue reading →

Total stations are used wherever the positions of points or both positions and heights need to be determined. A total station consists of a theodolite with a built-in distance meter and can simultaneously measure angles and distances. Continue reading →

Transits and theodolites get more attention than that humble but crucial three-legged stabilizer called a tripod. Not all tripods are created alike, so it’s important to know which kind is best suited for the job.  Continue reading →

Widely accepted as reliable accessories, surveying reflectors and prisms are not often considered as a potential source of measurement error. However, obtaining high levels of accuracy and reliability requires the consideration of all possible effects on measurement, including the prisms. In particular, round prisms must be aligned with the line of sight of the instrument within a certain tolerance. Continue reading →

Prisms are important surveying accessories that can ultimately have a major impact on the quality of your measurements. Different applications require different prism types. What kind of prism do you need? Here’s a brief overview of the two basic prism types. Continue reading →

A prism constant is a given property of the particular prism model that defines the relation of the distance measurement to the mechanical reference point of the prism (the holder). In principal, the prism constant is unvarying, and as long as it is considered, it should have no influence on the measurement. So why is it important? Continue reading →

The degree of reflection of a surveying prism is defined as the ability of a material to reflect visible and infrared radiation. This capability depends on the material itself, as well as on the surface quality. To improve performance, reflex and anti-reflex coatings are often used. But what’s the difference between the coating types, and how do they affect prism reflection? Continue reading →

The grinding of a prism glass plays a major role when reflecting signals. The more accurately the glass is ground (corner angles and surfaces), the more accurate and intense the signal. How can you tell whether your prism meets the basic standard? Continue reading →

A tribrach is a simple connecting device between an instrument and its support. However, it must be secured correctly to ensure smooth operation.  Continue reading →