What is the difference between an experience machine and a complete machine?
At a glance, it may be difficult for many laymen to distinguish between a theodolite and a total station. To help you have a clearer and more comprehensive view of surveying equipment, EMIN would like to share the basic differences between these two types of machines in the article below.
Contents
Distinguish different types of machines
What is a theodolite?
The theodolite allows measuring vertical and horizontal angles in space, and is made up of an optical-mechanical part. The machine's accuracy can reach one angular second
Main features of the machine:
- Photos: The machine automatically geotags photos and movies, and supports 2X and 4X digital zoom to improve image quality.
- Mapping: Helps users easily determine the current location on the map and share this location via text message or email.
- Group tracking: Allows you to share your location with up to 20 other people on the latitude and longitude map.
- Other features: Modern angle reference mode, data logging, KML export via email, percentage layer display, optical rangefinder, and colored lens filter, for efficient use effective in low light conditions and maintain night vision.
Application:
Theodolite is trusted by geologists, engineers, architects, and many other industries because of its versatility. In construction, the machine helps accurately measure angles, distances, and heights, ensuring the project is constructed to standards.
People who work outdoors such as hiking, boating, or hunting also find value in a theodolite, because it helps them orient and track effectively..
What is a total station?
Total station is an important equipment in the field of surveying and construction. This is a multi-purpose electronic optical device, combining a theodolite and electronic distance measuring (EDM) to accurately measure distances and angles between points in space. When in use, the total station provides the ability to measure vertical angles, horizontal angles, and inclined distances, helping users collect data effectively.
Main features of the machine
With the function of measuring and recording data, the total station supports measuring vertical and horizontal distances, as well as calculating point coordinates, area and point layout. Its convenience is also shown by allowing measurement data to be exported to data file formats such as CAD, making it easy to manage and process on computers.
Application:
Total stations are widely used in topographic surveys, cadastral measurements and in construction projects. The ability to transfer point coordinates from blueprints to the field is one of the outstanding advantages of this device, making an important contribution to ensuring accuracy and efficiency in modern construction projects.
The difference between the two types of machines
When choosing between a theodolite and a total station, many people often wonder which type is suitable for their work needs. Both types of machines are indispensable tools in the field of measurement, but each type has its own advantages and applications.
In terms of basic function, the theodolite is mainly used to measure angles on the plane and vertical angles in space. In contrast, a total station is a more versatile device, not only measuring angles but also measuring distances and determining coordinates of points in space. This means that a total station can perform more complex types of measurements than a theodolite.
Regarding accessories, theodolite is usually simpler with just a tripod and eye. Meanwhile, the total station is equipped with more accessories such as mirror poles, pole clamps, total station mirrors... making measurement more flexible and accurate.
Measurement method:
Total station:
Angle measurement: Direct measurement of horizontal and vertical angles.
Distance measurement: Use a laser to measure the distance to a reflector or other target points.
Measure coordinates: Calculate 3-dimensional (XYZ) coordinates based on angle and distance measurements.
Theodolite:
Angle measurement: Direct measurement of horizontal and vertical angles.
Measure distance: Use trigonometry, measure angles and lengths to calculate distance.
So which type of machine should you choose?
The answer depends on your specific job requirements. If you only need to measure simple angles, a theodolite is a suitable choice. However, if you need to make more complex measurements, require high accuracy and want to save time, a total station will be an optimal solution.
