What Equipment is Required to Complete a Topographic Survey?

A topographic survey involves collecting feature data for a plot of land, such as contours, elevations, and other physical characteristics. There are a variety of tools and equipment that are commonly used to complete a topographic survey, including:
- Total station: A total station is a surveying instrument that uses electronic distance measurement (EDM) to measure distances and angles between points on the ground. It can be used to measure the ground point elevation.
- GPS receiver: A GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver is a device that uses satellite signals to determine its location on the earth’s surface. It can be used to accurately locate points on the ground for a topographic survey.
- Laser rangefinder: A laser rangefinder is a device that uses a laser beam to measure the distance between the rangefinder and an object. It can be used to measure the elevations of points on the ground in a topographic survey.
- Level: A level is a surveying instrument that is used to determine the elevation of points on the ground. It consists of a telescope mounted on a tripod and is used to take precise measurements of the height of points on the ground.
- Tripod: A tripod is a three-legged stand that is used to hold surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS receivers, and levels. It is used to keep the instrument steady and level when taking measurements.