Total Stations are so named because they do everything in one self-contained unit. They involve all the advantages theodolites and eliminate the need for measuring tapes. The instument transmits either an infrared laser beam which is reflected back off a mirrored prism. The time it takes for the beam to travel is converted by an on-board computer into units of spatial measure. Distances, angles, and other information so gathered can then be stored in a data recorder and later downloaded into computers loaded with software designed to convert measurements into maps.
Models using infrared light and relying on external data recorders cost about half as much.
Given the cost of a Total Station, the level of skill needed to operate one, and the comprehensive and introductory nature of this course, students will not be given some basic instruction and then turned loose on an exercise. Instead, the class will spend the remainer of this class period and all of the next participating in a demonstration. Students completing this course, and wishing to develop their skills with a Total Station further may elect to take the specialized and advanced field techniques course. Participatory Demonstration Brief instructions for using a Nikon Top Gun total station. Page numbers in parentheses coincide with those in the instruction booklet included in the carrying case.