All total stations have an electronic distance measuring device (EDM) and electronic angles

scanning which measure the angles and distance and displayed digitally. The horizontal distance, the

height difference and coordinates are calculated automatically and all measurements and additional

information can be recorded.

The EDM instrument transmit an infrared beam, which is reflected back to the unit with the help

of a prism (by total internal reflection), and the EDM used timing measurements to calculate the distance

travelled by the beam. With the exceptions, the EDM instrument requires that the target be highly

reflective and a reflecting prism is normally as the target.

Most of the total stations, include data recorders. The raw data (angles and distances) and the co-

ordinates of points sighted are recorded along with same additional information. The data thus recorded

can be directly downloaded to a computer at a later time. The use of a data recorder further reduces the

recording errors and eliminates the need for a person to record data in the field.

At present, TOTAL STATION is widely used in many survey sites. Sometimes it is not fully

used since the users are unaware of its full optional capability. Total station used for levelling comes

under the classification indirect levelling. It can maintain considerable accuracy and is hence for many

public work such as construction of roads, airports and harbours.

The total station is mounted on a tripod and levelled before use. Meanwhile the PRISM mounted

on pole (TARGET ROD) of known height. The mounting bracket includes the aids for aiming the

instrument. The prism is mounted so that its reflection point is aligned with the centre of the pole on

which it has been mounted. Although the tip of the pole is placed to be surveyed, the instrument must be

aimed at the prism. So it will calculate the position of the prism and not the point to be surveyed, since the

prism is directly above the tip. The height of the pole may be subtracted to determine the location of the

point that can be done automatically. The pole must be held up right, and a bubble level attached to give

the technician holding the pole upright particularly if there is any wind and as a result at such occasions,
the reading may be taken by not sighting at the prism but on the tip of the pole where it touches the

ground. The angle from north would then be fixed and telescope could be raised to the level of the prism,

adjusting only the angle of inclination.