Total station

A total station is an electronic surveying instrument that combines a theodolite with electronic distance measurement to determine angles, distances, and coordinates.

Electronic distance measurement: A technique for measuring distance by analyzing electromagnetic signals transmitted to and returned from a target. The instrument measures slope distance by sending a signal to a prism or other target.
Topographic surveying: The measurement and mapping of terrain features, elevations, and human-made structures. Total stations collect the positions and elevations used to create detailed site maps.
Survey control: A network of points with established coordinates used to reference and connect surveying measurements. A total station needs known control to place measured points in a defined coordinate system.
GNSS surveying: Surveying that uses satellite-based positioning systems to determine point coordinates. It can determine positions without intervisible stations, unlike many total-station workflows.
Theodolite: An instrument that measures horizontal and vertical angles using a rotating telescope. Its angular measurement system is the foundation of a total station.
Construction surveying: The transfer of design positions and elevations onto a construction site. A total station sets out building corners, axes, grades, and other design points.
Horizontal angle: The angle in a horizontal plane between two directions from a common point. The instrument measures horizontal directions to locate targets around its setup.
Terrestrial laser scanning: A surveying method that rapidly captures dense three-dimensional point clouds using laser measurements. It records many surface points at once, while a total station usually measures selected targets.
Prism reflector: An optical device that reflects an incoming surveying signal back toward its source. A prism returns the instrument’s distance-measurement signal from a target point.
Traversing: A surveying method that establishes control points by measuring connected lines and angles. Total stations measure the angles and distances used to extend survey control.

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