Chapter 1

Introduction to Surveying Instrument Use and Surveying Fieldworks

At the end of this chapter should be able to:

1. Describe the different kinds of surveying instrument,

2. Describe the propose and use of the Instruments
3. Identify essential information that must be included in a field notebook
4. Name different personnel in a survey party and specify their roles
5. Gain knowledge on the proper care and handling of surveying instruments
6. Familiarized the survey arm and hand signals

Brief discussion about the development to instruments

With the beginning of industrial revolution, the importance of “exact boundaries”

and the demand for public improvements (railroads, canals, highways, dams) brought
surveying into a prominent position. With the development in the field of survey, it was
necessary to develop some new instruments to perform various operations in the field in
more efficient way. From a Surveyor’s chain to Electronic Distance Measurement (EDM)
to Real Time Kinematic (RTK)

Instruments Used In Survey

1. Stretched Rope
Initially a stretched rope was used to measure distances between two places or
points. But it was not an accurate method as it contained a lot of error and also it was a
very slow process. As the rope contained a lot of sags, so the distance was not
measured accurately. Moreover, due to the short Iength of the rope it was very difficult
to measure a long distance in a single span. To overcome this problem, a chain was
developed to measure the distances between two points.
 Fig. 1.1 Stretched Rope

2. Chain

Chain a distance measuring device used for surveying. It was designed and
introduced in 1620 by Edmund Gunter. It enabled plots of land to be accurately
surveyed and plotted, for legal and commercial purposes.

The 66-feet chain is divided into 100 links. Each link is thus 7.92 inches long
(0.66 feet). Although chain was later superseded by the steel tape. Because the chain
was too heavy to carry and also it contained a lot of sags due to its heavy load while
taking measurements. So, a great care was to be taken while taking measurements with
chain.

Fig. 1.2 Surveyor’s Chain

3. Measuring Tape
As the chain had a number of limitations. To overcome these difficulties, measuring
tape was developed. Measuring tape is a flexible ruler used to measure distances. It
consists of a ribbon of cloth, plastic, fiber glass, or metal strip with linear-
measurement markings. Tapes come in a variety of lengths and materials. For
engineering work the lengths are generally 10m, 30m, 50m and 100m.

Fig 1.3 Steel Tape

4. Perambulator
It is also another distance measuring device. Also known as surveyor's wheel.
They are often used by road maintenance or underground utility workers and by farmers
for fast measures over distances.
It is wheeled along the line whose length is desired. The distance traversed is
automatically registered in terms of miles, furlongs, and yards to the nearest yard on the
dial. As the wheel turns during measurement, it is seen that the wheel sweeps out at an
angle of 3/8π radians which is equal to 135 degrees. Surveyor's wheels are used
primarily for lower accuracy surveys.

Fig.1.4 Perambulator

5. Engineer’s Transit
The engineer’s transit is used primarily for measuring horizontal and vertical angles,
prolonging or setting points in line, measuring approximate distances by the stadia
principle, and leveling. It can also be used as a compass when equipped with a
compass needle. Horizontal and vertical plates graduated in degrees and fractions
measure the angles. They are mounted at right angles to the axes. Spirit levels are
provided for leveling the horizontal plates. A telescope, equipped with a spirit level, is
mounted at right angles to a horizontal axis supported by two uprights (standards)
attached to the upper horizontal plate. In use, the instrument is mounted on a tripod and
is equipped with a small chain and hook to which a plumb bob can be attached. The
plumb bob provides a way to center the instrument over a point.

Fig 1.5 Engineer’s Transit

6. Electron Distance Measurement

EDM stands for Electronic Distance Measurement. EDM is a surveying instrument
used for measuring distance electronically between two points through electromagnetic
waves. The distance measured by EDM is more precise than measured with chain or
tape. The wave emitted from the EDM reaches the reflector and return back to the
EDM. Then the distance is measured with the help of time taken for the above process
time taken by the wave for the emission and return. The following equation is used to
measure the distance. Distance = Velocity X time

Fig. 1.6 Electronic Distance Measurement

7. Graphometer
The graphometer or semi-circumferentor is a surveying instrument used for angle
measurements. It consists of a semicircular limb divided into 180 degrees and
sometimes subdivided into minutes. The form was introduced in Philippe Danfrie's,
(Paris, 1597). The limb is subtended by the diameter with two sights at its ends. In the
middle of the diameter a "box and needle" (compass) is fixed.

Fig 1.7 Graphometer

8. Inclinometer
An inclinometer or clinometer is an instrument used for measuring angles of slope,
elevation, or depression of an object with respect to gravity's direction. It is also known
as a tilt indicator, tilt sensor, gradient meter and pitch & roll indicator. Clinometers
measure both inclines and declines
Uses Fig. 1.8 Inclinometer
 In land surveying and mapping, a clinometer can
provide a rapid measurement of the slope of a
geographic feature, or used for cave survey.
 In prospecting for minerals, clinometers are used to
measure the strike and dip of geologic formations.
 In forestry, tree height measurement can be done
with a clinometer using standardized methods.
 Major artillery guns may have an associated clinometer used to facilitate aiming
of shells over long distances.
9. Abney Level
The Abney Level is an engineering instrument which can be used to determine
height. It is moderately expensive and of medium size and weight. Abney levels are
made with square tubular bodies so that they may also be used to directly measure the
slopes of plane surfaces by simply placing the body of the level on the surface,
adjusting the level, and then reading the angle off of the scale.
Common Uses Fig. 1.9 Abney Level
  In topographic surveying, to place high
precision surveying equipment, particularly in
rough terrain.
 In forestry, for tree height measurement.
 In mining and mine safety inspection, to measure the grades of haulage roads.
 In geology, in measurements of rock outcrops and fault scarps

10. Auto Level

A level an optical instrument used to establish or verify points in the same
horizontal plane in a process known as levelling. It is used in conjunction with a
levelling staff to establish the relative heights levels of objects or marks.
It is widely used in surveying and construction to measure height differences and to
transfer, measure, and set heights of known objects or marks. The complete unit is
normally mounted on a tripod, and the telescope can freely rotate 360° in a horizontal
plane. It is also known as a Surveyors level, Builders level, Dumpy level.
Applications of Auto level
 To measure height differences
 Used in a Road Profile
 For excavation of canals, roads, pipelines, railroads, etc.
 Setting height of known objects
 Finding height and horizontal angle between different objects
 Helps in making contour maps, contour lines, etc.
Fig. 1.10 Auto Level
11. Theodolite
Joshua Habermel created a theodolite with a compass and tripod in 1576. It is an
instrument for measuring angles in the horizontal and vertical planes. Initially the
theodolite had a number of limitations and could not measure angle with great
accuracy and precision. With the advancement in the field of technology, scientists
made a number of modifications in older theodolites for measuring angles with great
accuracy and precision. Modern theodolites are designed in such a way to perform
 all the necessary angular and distance calculations and to read the measurement up
to seconds of levels

Applications of Theodolite
 Measuring horizontal and Vertical angles
 Locating points on a line
 Difference of level
 Setting out of Curves
 Measurement of Bearings
 Setting out of Grades (Slopes)
Fig. 1.11 Theodolite
12. Total Station
Initially theodolites were used to measure angles. Distances were measured either
with the tapes or chains. With the advancement in technology, EDM (Electron Distance
Measurement) was mounted on theodolites. Total stations became combination of
theodolite, level and measuring tape.
It is equally good in measuring horizontal and vertical angles, sloping distances and
three dimensional coordinate's computation. Data collected from total station can be
downloaded into computer/laptops for further processing of information.
Applications of Total Station
 Used for topographic, Hydrographic,
cadastral, project and construction
surveys.
 Computing coordinates of survey
points from horizontal angle and
horizontal distance.
 Area calculations Fig. 1.12 Total Station
 Volume Calculations
 Stake out Coordinates
 Setting out Curves
 Remote distance measurement (RDM) or Missing line measurement (MLM)
Uses of Total Station
 The uses of Total Station are as follows:
 Mine Survey
 Cadastral Survey
 Engineering Survey
 Large Scale Survey
 Road/ Rail Canal Survey
13. Real-Time Kinematic
Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) is positioning that is based on at least two GPS
receivers; a base receiver and one or more rover receiver. The base receiver takes
measurements from satellites in view and then broadcasts them, together with its
location, to the rover receiver(s). The rover receiver also collects measurements to the
satellites in view and processes them with the base station data. The rover then
estimates its location relative to the base.
The key to achieving centimeter-level positioning accuracy with RTK is use of the
GPS carrier phase signals. Carrier phase measurements are like precise tape
measures from the base and rover antennas to the satellite. In the receiver, carrier
phase measurements are made with millimeter-precision. Although carrier phase
measurements are highly precise, they contain an unknown bias, termed the integer
cycle ambiguity, or carrier phase ambiguity. The rover has to resolve, or initialize,
the carrier phase ambiguities at power-up and every time that the satellite signals are
interrupted.

Fig.1.13 Real-Time Kinematic (RTK)

GPS (Global Positioning System)

 As the technology is advancing day by day, several new methods are introduced
by developers to help the surveyors in performing different operations in field more
accurately and precisely. Initially GPS was developed for military use but there is a wide
variety of equipment and techniques that can be used for surveying.
GPS was rapidly adapted for surveying, as it can give a position (Latitude,
Longitude and Height) directly, without the need to measure angles and distances
between intermediate points. Survey control points could now be established almost
anywhere and it is only necessary to have a clear view of the sky so the signal from the
GPS satellites could be received clearly.
Applications and Benefits
 GPS provides surveying and mapping data of the highest accuracy.
 GPS is especially useful in surveying coasts and waterways, where there are few
land-based reference points.
 Bridge builders and offshore oil rigs also depend on GPS for accurate
hydrographic surveys.
 Significant productivity gains in terms of time, equipment, and labor required.
 Fewer operational limitations compared to conventional techniques.
 Accurate positioning of physical features that can be used in maps and models.
 Faster delivery of geographic information needed by decision makers.
Care and Handling of Instruments
1. Know how to use the instrument.
2. Fasten securely to the tripod.
3. Carry the instrument properly.
4. Always place them in stable grounds when in use.
5. Place them properly in their container.
6. Clamp-screws should be clamped very lightly when:
 Being carried or handled
 Putting it back to its case
7. Do not use them if weather does not permit.
8. Protect the instrument from impact and vibration.
9. Check their functionality before and after field work.
 10. Never leave the instrument alone.
11. Tripod legs should not be set too close together but should be firmly planted.
12. Don’t touch the instrument when observation is being made.
13. Never rub the coated lenses of a telescope with the fingers or with a rough cloth.
Use camel’s hair brush.
14. Inform the officer-in-charge to the instrument for any damage, no matter how
small it may be.
15. If wet, dry them by carefully wiping excess water and do not put them
immediately in their storage or container.
16. Be mindful of the surrounding when transporting any equipment.
17. Avoid playing with the instrument.
18. Always make sure that the equipment is secure.

Fieldwork
Field work is of primary importance in all types of surveys. To be a skilled
surveyor, you must spend a certain amount of time in the field to acquire needed
experience. This training manual will help you understand the theory behind surveying,
instruments and their uses, and surveying methods. However, proficiency in actual
surveying, as in other professions, depends largely upon the duration, extent, and
variety of experience. Develop the habit of studying a problem thoroughly before going
into the field. Know exactly what is to be done, how to do it, and the instruments and
materials necessary to do it. Developing speed and consistent accuracy in all your
fieldwork is essential. This means that you will need practice in handling the
instruments, taking observations, keeping field notes, and planning systematic moves.
Do not accept any measurement as correct without verification. Whenever possible,
verify using a method different than that used in the original measurement. Ensure that
the precision of your measurements are consistent with the accepted standard for the
survey. Fieldwork also includes adjusting the instruments and caring for field equipment.
Do not attempt to adjust any instrument unless you understand the workings or
functions of its parts. Instrument adjustments in the early stages of your career require
close supervision from a senior EA
Factors Affecting Fieldwork
The surveyor must constantly be alert to the different conditions encountered in
the field. Physical factors, such as terrain and weather conditions, affect each field
survey to varying degrees. Fog or mist can limit the ability to take telescope
measurements. Swamps and flood plains under high water can impede taping surveys.
Sights over open water or fields of flat, unbroken terrain create ambiguities in
measurements taken with microwave equipment. The lengths of light-wave distance in
measurements are reduced in bright sunlight. Generally, reconnaissance will
predetermine the conditions and alert the survey party to the best methods and the rate
of progress to expect

Field Survey Parties

The size of a field survey party depends upon the survey requirements, the
equipment available, the method of survey, and the number of personnel needed to
perform the tasks required. The Seabees commonly use three types of field survey
parties: level party, transit party, and stadia party.
1. Level Party
The smallest leveling party consists of two people: an instrumentman and a
rodman. In this type of organization, the instrumentman acts as note keeper. The
party may need another recorder and one or more extra rodmen to improve the
efficiency of the leveling operations. Having additional rodmen eliminates the waiting
periods while one person moves from point to point, and an additional recorder
allows the instrumentman to take readings as soon as the rodmen are in position.
When leveling operations take place alongside other control surveys, the leveling
party may become part of a combined party with personnel assuming dual duties, as
the workload requires or the party chief directs.
2. Transit Party
A transit party consists of at least three people: an instrumentman, a head
chainman, and a party chief. The party chief is usually the note keeper and may
double as rear chainman, or there may be an additional rear chainman. The
 instrumentman operates the transit; the head chainman measures the horizontal
distances; and the party chief directs the survey and keeps the notes.
3. Stadia Party
A stadia party consists of at least three people: an instrumentman, a note keeper,
and a rodman. However, if the distance between the points is great, the party should
include a second rodman so that one can proceed to a new point while the other
holds the rod on the point being observed. The note keeper records the data called
off by the instrumentman and makes the sketches required.

Field Work: - involves:

1. Reconnaissance of the area to be surveyed
2. Care, handling and adjustment of instrument
3. Performing measurements
4. Setting out in the field

Surveying Field Notes

 Constitute the only reliable and permanent record of actual work done in the field.
If notes are incorrect or incompletely done - time, money and effort in data
gathering are wasted.
 The quality of field work is reflected directly in the manner he keeps his record.
 Field notes become the official record of the survey.
 Reliability must be ensured
 Forms part of the official survey record
 Kept for future reference

The Field Notebook

In practice the field notebook should be of good quality rag paper, with stiff board or
leather cover made to withstand hard usage, and of pocket size. Treated papers are
available which will shed rain; some of these can be are available which will shed rain;
some of these can be written on even when wet. Special field notebooks are sold by
engineering supply companies for earthwork.
 The field notebook may be bound in any of three way; conventional, ring, or
loose-leaf. The ring-type, which consist of many metal rings passing through
perforations in the pages, has the advantage over the conventional binding that the
book opens quite flat and that the covers can be folded back against each other. Loose-
leaf notebooks are more popularly used.

Table 1.1 Types of Notes and Their Descriptions

Types of Notes Descriptions

1. Sketches  Rarely made to exact scale, but mostly made
approximately to scale
 Drawn free hand and of liberal size
 Features shown by conventional symbols
 Sketch crowded with unnecessary data is often
confusing
2. Tabulations  Series of numerical values observed in the field
are best shown in a tabulated format
 The format prevents mistakes, allows easy
checking, saves time, make the calculations
legible to others and simplify the work of the
person checking the field notes
3. Explanatory notes  Provide written description of what has been
done in the field
 Employed to explain numerical data and sketches
 Placed on the right hand page of the field
notebook in the same line with the numerical data
that they explain
4. Computations  Form a large part of the work of surveying
 Mostly algebraic by the use of simple steps and
trigonometric functions
 Graphical solutions using accurately scaled
drawings are used
  Portrayal of calculations should be clear and
orderly arrangement in order that these will easily
be understood by persons other than the one who
made the calculations
5. Combination  Practice used in most extensive surveys
 Surveyor should be able to determine for himself
which type of combination would be most logical to
use in portraying the type of data gathered in the
field

Information found in Field Notebook

It is desirable that the following basic information be included in the field

notebook as a requirement for documentation. It should be noted, however, that any
other important or informative data relevant to the particular surveying operation may
also be included.

Table 1.2 Information Found in Field Notebooks

1. Title of the Field Work or  The official name of the project or title of
Name of the Project the fieldwork should always be identified.
 Location of the survey, nature or purpose
should be stated.

2. Time of Day and Date  Entries are necessary to document the

notes and furnish a time table as well as to
correlate different surveys.
 Time table, precision, problems
encountered and other factors affecting the
survey are referenced from.
3. Weather Conditions  Weather conditions such as rain have a
decided effect upon accuracy in surveying
 operations

4. Names of Group  Chief of party, instrument man, and other

Members and Their members of the survey party, and their
Designations obligations must be identified

 Necessary for documentation purposes and

other future reference
5. List of Equipment All survey equipment used must be listed
including its maker brand and serial number
Type of instrument used, its adjustment all have
definite effect on the accuracy of a survey
Proper identification of a particular equipment
used aids in isolating errors in some cases

Field Survey Party

The following is list of persons who may compose a filed survey party. Their
duties and responsibilities are given opposite their respective designations. The given
composition is primarily designed for large scale surveys which is expected to
undertake field surveys covering days or weeks using either conventional or
sophisticated surveying instruments such as those for surveys using electronic, inertial
and position systems.

1. Chief of Party

 Person responsible for the overall direction, supervision and operational

control of the survey party
 Responsible for its logistical and technical requirements and problems of a
field survey operation
 Prior to the execution of a survey project, he consults with superiors regarding
the project to be undertaken
  Responsible for submitting survey reports and records and sees to it that
these are complete, accurate and adheres to prescribed technical standards
and specifications
 Prepares cost estimates of survey projects and receives and disburses the
cash expenses of the survey party
 Act as an expert witness in court on matters relating to technical description
of land and other surveying matters

2. Assistant Chief of Party

 Assist the chief of party in the accomplishment of the task assigned to the
survey party
 Takes over the duties of the chief of party during the absence of the chief
 Responsible for the employment of surveying equipment, instruments and
accessories used in the survey operation
 Prepares field and office reports and survey plans for submission to the chief
of party
 Conducts ground reconnaissance and investigates sites of a proposed project
to gather necessary data prior to the start of a survey work

3. Instrument man

 Duty is to set up, level and operate surveying instruments such as the transit,
level, theodolite, etc.
 Sees to it that instruments to be used in a survey operation are in good
working condition and in proper adjustment
 Assists the technician in the operation of electronic surveying equipment
 Works in coordination and as part of an instrument party and exercises limited
supervision over personnel doing manual tasks

4. Technician
  Responsible for the use and operation of all electronic instruments required in
a field work operation
 Duty is to make sure equipment are functioning properly, regularly calibrated
and are in adjustment
 Responsible for the establishment of a two-way communication link by radio
between the survey party and the home office and between members of the
survey party where distant stations or long survey lines are involved

5. Data processor

 Duty is to perform computations of survey data and works out necessary

computational checks required in a field work operation
 Responsible for the utilization of electronic calculators, computers, and
assists in the operation of computerized surveying systems or equipment

6. Recorder

 Duty is to keep a record of all sketches, drawings, measurements and

observations taken or needed for a field work operation
 Keeps table of schedules of all phases of work and the employment of the
members of the survey party

7. Head Tapeman

 Responsible for the accuracy and speed of all linear measurements with tape

 Determines and directs the marking of stations to be occupied by the

surveying instrument and directs the clearing out of obstructions along the
line of sight

 Inspects and compares tapes of standard length prior to their use in taping
operation and is responsible for eliminating or reducing possible errors and
mistakes in taping
8. Rear Tapeman

 Duty is to assist the head tapeman during taping operation and in other
related work

9. Flagman

 Duty is to hold the flagpole or range pole at selected points as directed by the
instrument man
 Helps the tapeman in making measurements and assists the axeman in
clearing other obstructions to line of sight
 Responsible for setting up reflectors, targets, prisms

10. Rodman

 Duty is to hold the stadia or leveling rod when sighted

11. Pacer

 Duty is to check all linear measurements made by the tapemen

 Assists the tapemen in checking for mistakes and blunders in linear
measurements and in reducing and eliminating them
 Perform the job of a rodman

12. Axeman/ Lineman

 Duty is to clear the line sight of trees and obstructions

 Responsible for the security and safety of the members of the survey party at
the survey site
 Provided with an ax and a rifle or a side arm as well

13. Aidman

 Duty is to render first aid treatment to members of the party

14. Utilitymen
  Duties are to render other forms of assistance needed by the survey party or
as directed by the chief of party
 Designated as driver if a survey vehicle is used
 Setting up camp site and required facilities
 Prepare and serve meals and look after the security of the camp site
 Transportation of surveying equipment, accessories and supplies
 Laying out of concrete monuments, markers and signals

Survey Arm and Hand Signals

An arm and hand signal is any gesture or motion that conveys information or
gives a command, direction or warning. Usually employed due to the difficulty to
communicate verbally in the field due to distance, wind conditions and surrounding
noise.
1. Move Right or Left. The instrumentman uses this signal to direct the rodman to
move either to the left or the right. The desired direction of movement is pointed
out by the forefinger.
2. Give a Sight. The right or left hand is raised up and is held for a moment in a
vertical position.
3. All Right. The levelman extends both arms horizontally and moves them up or
down. When both arms are brought still and horizontal it is meant to transmit a
command to "hold steady."
4. This is a Point. The rodman raises the rod and holds it in a horizontal position
over his head. It could also be taken to mean, "Give me a Line".
5. Move Back. The instrumentman uses this signal to direct the rodman to move
back farther. He transmits the command by raising his right hand with the palm
facing toward the rodman and then moving it into a horizontal position with his
palm faced down.
6. Pick Up Instruments. When a new set up of the level is desired, the chief of
party signals the instrumentman by first extending both arms downward then
raising them up quickly as though an object is being lifted.
 7. Raise (or Lower) Target. The instrumentman motions to the rodman by either
raising his arm above his shoulder to raise the rod, or by dropping his arm below
his waist to lower the target. When the raised or lowered target approaches the
desired setting, the arm is brought back to a horizontal position.
8. Come In. The chief of party or instrumentman uses this signal to direct any
member of the survey party to come in or assemble. It is executed by moving the
arm into a circular motion starting from below the waist to the front of his face.
9. Plumb the Rod. The hand is extended vertically above the head and moved
slowly in the direction it is desired to plumb the rod.
10. Establish a Turning Point. To establish a turning point, the arm is swung slowly
in a circle above the head.
11. This is a Turning Point. To identify a turning point, the leveling rod (or range
pole) is raised overhead in a horizontal position. It is then lowered into a vertical
position and held on the point.
12. Wave the Rod. The instrumentman holds his arm above his head and
continuously waves it back and forth.
13. Face the Rod. This is a signal given out by the instrumentman to direct the
rodman to face the rod towards the line of sight. It is executed by raising both
arms above the head and twisting both hands back and forth.
14. Reverse the Rod. The command to reverse the rod is transmitted to the rodman
by extending the arms above the head and slowly rotating both arms in a circular
motion towards one side of the body.
15. Move Forward. From a position where both arms are horizontally, the arms are
slowly bent on the elbows and the hands raised into a vertical position. This
signal is used to direct the rodman to move forward.
16. Use The Long Rod. To give the signal to use the long rod, the instrument
extends both arms downward then slowly raises it over his head.

Fig. 1.14 Arm and Hand signals used in leveling work

Fig. 1.15 Other Arm and Hand Signals

Fig. 1.15 Other Arm and Hand Signals

Learning Activity

Create a video clip that shows the different surveying instrument, survey arms
and hand signals then upload it on Facebook for the views.

Guide Questions 1

Answer the following to check what you learned from the discussions so far. Check
your answers from the provided answer key at the end of this unit.

1. What are Instruments?

2. What are the importance of Good field noted?
3. What are the basic requirements for good notes?

Answers to the Guide Questions 1

Question no. 1: Instruments are the tools or devices which are used to carry out various
jobs in a field. In every field, you need some tools (some devices) to perform different
operations. Without proper instruments one cannot perform his job accurately and
efficiently.

Question no. 2:

The following are the importance of having of good field noted:

 Permanent Records – surveying field notes, whether in books or on books or on

electronic data records, are only permanent record of work done in the field.
 Time – if they are lost, incorrect, damage or incomplete, much of the time and
money invested in making accurate records has been wasted.
 Money – field book contain data which has been collected over weeks or month.
The cost collecting this data can range in the thousandth of pesos.
 Litigation – property survey are subject to court view. The status of the field book
can be a very important factor in litigation.
 Efficiency – the information in the field book is used by office personnel to make
drawings or calculations.

Question no. 3:

The following are the basic requirements/characters of a good field noted:

 Accuracy – by far the most important aspect of field notes.

 Integrity (complete) – if the field crew fails to collect all important data, costly
delays can occur in the office.
 Legibility – major errors can occur if your notes can’t be easily read.
 Arrangement – following a standard format, save time and money when trying
follow notes.
 Clarity – a well-planned survey with clear special notations and sketches will
greatly add to the understanding of the survey.

Why do we need Instruments in Surveying?

Instruments are used in surveying for different purposes.
The main key points for which we use instruments in survey are:
1. For Finding Distances
2. For Finding Angles
3. For Knowing Elevations
4. To Find Unknown Coordinates
5. For Finding Inaccessible Heights
6. For Setting out of Curves
7. Making Contour Maps
8. Marking National Boundaries
9. Area and Volume Computation

IMPORTANT POINTS TO REMEMBER ABOUT NOTES

1. Always give the project name, location, and date.
 You can document and correlate surveys by time.
2. Indicate the weather conditions.
 Weather can point out errors made by the survey party, and errors due to
poor visibility or high reflection, expansion by heat, or high wind.
1. Temperature. 3. Wind direction.
2. Wind speed. 4. Atmosphere.
3. List the members of the crew on the survey and their duties.
 Party members are listed for documentation and future reference.
4. Note the instruments used, their model and serial number.
 The instrument number is listed for documentation and to note accuracy, and
for future reference if instrument errors are later discovered.
5. Use the Reinhardt system of lettering.
 Reinhardt lettering is used in drafting and engineering lettering, and is used
for clarity and simplicity.
6. Avoid crowding - Paper is cheap.
 Field books are assumed to be original. If a copy is made, the copy must be
so marked, and is not admissible in court. Original notes are those taken in
field with measurements.
7. Put down what you read, do not selectively edit data in the field.
  Do not do calculations in your head, write them out for future reference.
 Write all notes in notebook, not on other paper for later transfer.
8. NEVER erase recorded data on the data page.
 Erasures look like improper modifications have been made. If an error occurs,
draw a single line through the improper part while allowing it to remain legible.
VOID large areas if needed.
 There is less of a problem with erasures on the description, calculation, and
sketch pages.
9. Check your data for correctness before you leave the field.
 It is much easier to correct mistakes while at the site.
References and Supplementary Materials

Books
1. Juny Pilapil La Putt (2010). Elementary Surveying; Introduction to surveying.
- 3rd edition
Online Supplementary Reading Material
1. Field data collection; http://www.vermessungsseiten.de/englisch/vermtech/field-
notes.htm?fbclid=IwAR11ZXW-6LwFfrF2-
irCOYHpO15DjGptSHbkvH7DopBWmF5DW0z95wbO_pE
Assessment 1
Name: ________________________________Course, Year and Section:___________
Direction: Identify the following statements. Please write your answer on the blank
before the number.
______________________1. ___ used to measure distances between two places or
points. But it was not an accurate method as it contained a lot of error and also it was a
very slow process.

______________________2. Person who duty is to assist the head tapeman during

taping operation and in other related work

______________________3. Person who responsible to set up, level and operate

surveying instruments such as the transit, level, theodolite, etc.

______________________4. Type of notes where graphical solutions using accurately

scaled drawings are used

______________________5. Person responsible for the overall direction, supervision

and operational control of the survey party

______________________6. Type of notes where series of numerical values observed

in the field are best shown in a tabulated format

______________________7. ___ is of primary importance in all types of surveys

______________________8. A surveying instrument that is combination of theodolite,
level and measuring tape.
______________________9. It is an instrument for measuring angles in the horizontal
and vertical planes.
_____________________10. A distance measuring device used for surveying. It was
designed and introduced in 1620 by Edmund Gunter.
_____________________11. It is also another distance measuring device. Also known
as surveyor's wheel.
_____________________12. An optical instrument used to establish or verify points in
the same horizontal plane in a process known as levelling
_____________________13. A surveying instrument used for measuring distance
electronically between two points through electromagnetic waves.
_____________________14. Who created a theodolite with a compass and tripod in
1576?

_____________________15. Person/s who is/are responsible for the security and

safety of the members of the survey party at the survey site.

_____________________16. ____ are any gesture or motion that conveys information

or gives a command, direction or warning. Usually employed due to the difficulty to
communicate verbally in the field due to distance, wind conditions and surrounding
noise.

_____________________17. Person that assist the chief of party in the

accomplishment of the task assigned to the survey party.

_____________________18. Are the tools or devices which are used to carry out
various jobs in a field. In every field, you need some tools (some devices) to perform
different operations.
_____________________19. Person who had duty to keep a record of all sketches,
drawings, measurements and observations taken or needed for a field work operation
_____________________20. Type of notes that provide written description of what has
been done in the field