Tools You Need To Survey

Surveying can be a beneficial profession both for you as the worker and for those you serve whether you are surveying buildings, highways, or transport systems. If you are considering entering this profession, you will need a few specific tools before you begin working to do the best job possible.

Chain

A chain used for surveying usually has a hundred links and can be up to sixty-six feet long. However, with the modern day tools available, steel measuring tapes can also be accurate and be up to five hundred feet long. Last of all, if you are going to be measuring an even longer distance, perhaps of several miles, you can place reflectors at the corners of where you will be measuring then use your electronic measuring device to calculate the distance. The hard, material measuring devices can be a bit more accurate; however, the electronic devices are usually within a couple feet of accuracy. Your decision on the device really depends on what you are measuring and how accurate it needs to be.

Compass

A compass is also helpful as it will display the direction you are measuring. This can be helpful if you are doing engineering surveys for a bridge. You need to make sure you are measuring the length exactly where it should be, not somewhat tilted or crooked. You could also opt to have a solar compass. The solar compass finds its bearings, not based on magnetism, but based on the location of the stars. This tool can also measure horizontal angles. The solar compass is sometimes required, depending on the area you are surveying in. Either way, it is usually more accurate than the compass and is recommended for use.

Level

The level can help you make sure you are measuring accurately straight across and determine your elevation. Levels can be inexpensive to buy; however, levels that are inexpensive are probably not as accurate. Spend a little more to invest in a worthwhile level.

Theodolite

This tool is used to measure angles both horizontally and vertically. When using this instrument, you would put the lower plate in place, clamping it down. This lower plate should be pointing at your bearing or known direction. You can then rotate the upper plate to your second bearing point. If you have no second bearing point, you can set the upper plate to zero.

Software

Last of all, you can use software to help increase your accuracy. Some examples of software that helps complete engineer surveys are 3d scanners and GPSs.

Invest well in your surveying tools as you begin so that you will be accurate and build a positive reputation for yourself.


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