
Horizontal circles can be instantly zeroed or set to any other value. Theodolites have many advantages when compared to other leveling instruments: Measuring and laying out angles and straight lines.
Theodolites are mainly used for surveying, but they are also useful in these applications: Theodolites tend to have a more precise reading and provide greater accuracy in measuring angles than transits do. Theodolites use enclosed graduated circles and angular readings are taken using an internal magnifying optical system. Transits use vernier scales and external graduated metal circles for angular readings. Both theodolites and transits can be used for similar projects, but there are slight differences between the two instruments. Along with the transit, theodolites have mounted telescopes that can be rotated in different directions. Theodolites have a lot in common with transits.Ī transit is a surveying instrument that also takes accurate angular measurements. Theodolites can rotate along their horizontal axis as well as their vertical axis. Record the horizontal and vertical angles using the viewing scope found on the theodolite’s side.Ī theodolite is a precision instrument used for measuring angles both horizontally and vertically. Use the locking knobs on the side of the theodolite to keep it aimed on the point.
Aim the crosshairs in the main scope at the point to be measured. Adjust the plummet using the knobs on the bottom. The vertical plummet allows you to do ensure the instrument remains over the nail or stake. Adjust the small sight (the vertical plummet) found on the bottom of the theodolite. You can make slight tunings with the leveling knobs to get it just right.
Level the theodolite by adjusting the tripod legs and using the bulls-eye level. This will be used a reference to other stations. Measure the height between the ground and the instrument. Mount the theodolite by placing it atop the tripod, and screw it in place with the mounting knob. Drive the tripod legs into the ground using the brackets on the sides of each leg. The centered hole of the mounting plate should be over the nail or stake. Make sure the height of the tripod allows the instrument (the theodolite) to be eye-level. This point is the basis for measuring angles and distances. Mark the point at which the theodolite will be set up with a surveyor’s nail or a stake. The graduated circles, one vertical and one horizontal, allow the user to actually survey for angles. The internal spirit level makes sure the device is level to to the horizon. An optical plummet ensures the theodolite is placed as close to exactly vertical above the survey point. The theodolite's base is threaded for easy mounting on a tripod.Ī theodolite works by combining optical plummets (or plumb bobs), a spirit (bubble level), and graduated circles to find vertical and horizontal angles in surveying. The objective lens is used to sight the object, and with the help of the mirrors inside the telescope, allows the object to be magnified. An objective lens is also located on the telescope, but is on the opposite end as the eyepiece. The telescope contains an eyepiece that the user looks through to find the target being sighted. The instrument has a focusing knob that is used to make the object clear. The telescope has a sight on the top of it that is used to align the target. Like other leveling instruments, a theodolite consists of a telescope mounted on a base.
Digital theodolites are convenient because the digital readouts take the place of traditional graduated circles and this creates more accurate readings. Digital theodolites consist of a telescope that is mounted on a base, as well as an electronic readout screen that is used to display horizontal and vertical angles. Non digital theodolites are rarely used anymore. There are two different kinds of theodolites: digital and non digital. We offer a wide selection of laser levels and spirit levels, including I-beam, torpedo, and box beam levels, ranging from 24 inches to 96 inches.How a Theodolite Works Types of Theodolites Around the jobsite, in your garage, or just for hanging pictures, you need a level tool you can count on to keep your project level and functional.