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SURVEYING PRACTICE 18CVL57
Units & Measurements
Department of Civil Engineering, ATMECE, Mysuru
Available At VTU HUB (Android App)

Signs or Symbols for Revelations of the above Surface Features

Symbol Description Symbol Description
Village (open) Telephone Line
Church Electric Power Line

Railway,Broad Gauge
Temple
Double Line
Bridge carrying
Mosque
Railway over Road
Idgah Metalled Road
Burial-Ground National Highway
Boundary pillar UN-Metalled Road
Aerodrome Level Crossing
Foot Path with Bridge,

Well
Culvert
Swamp or Marsh ( Road or Railway )
with Cultivation Embankment
Lake with
a)Defined Limit
Orchard / Garden /
b)Fluctuating Plantation
Limit
c)Embankment
Single Line
Trees
Stream
a) Scattered
a) Perennial
b) Surveyed
b) Non-Perennial
Canal with
Navigation Lock Bench Mark
and Road
Aqueduct with
Triangulation Station
Road Alongside

Broken or Rocky
Earthwork Dam
Ground
Masonry dam
Contours
with Road

EQUIPMENTS USED IN SURVEY LABORATORY
1. Chain: A chain is mainly used in chain surveying to measure the distances. A chain may
be metric or non-metric. Generally a chain consists of 100 or 150 links each 300 mm or 200
mm length. The link is made of galvanized mild steel wire 4 mm to 6mm diameter. The ends
of each link are bent into a loop and connected together by means of three oval rings. The
ends of the chain are provided with handles for dragging the chain on the ground, each wire
with a swivel joint so that the chain can be turned without twisting. The length of the chain is
measured from the outside of one handle to the outside of another handle.
Types of chains
i. Metric chains: Metric chains of length 20m, 30m, 50m and 100m are used now-a-days for
measuring the distances in meters and its fractions.
ii. Non-metric chains: The following are the non-metric chains in which the unit of
measurement is foot.
a) Engineers chain: It is 100 feet long and consists of 100 links, each of 1 foot length.
b) Gunter’s chain or surveyor’s chain: It is 66 feet in length, consists of 100 links each being
0.66 foot long
c) Revenue chain: It is 33 feet long and consists of 16 links. It is used in cadastral survey.
iii. Steel band or Band chain: It is made of steel ribbon 16 mm wide and is available in 20 and
30m lengths. It is wound on an open steel cross in a closed case
2. Tapes: Tapes are used for measuring the distances in precise work. Following are the
various
Types of tapes
i) Cloth or linen tape: It is made of woven linen strip 5 mm to 15 mm wide and varnished. It
is easily affected by damp.
ii) Metallic tape: It is made of linen strip inserted with metallic wires.
iii) Steel tape: It is made of thin steel strip and is available in 10, 20, 30 and 50 metre lengths.
It is widely used for measurements.
iv) Invar tape: It is made of an alloy of steel and nickel. It is used for the work of highest
precision.
Chain Tape

3. Arrows: Arrows are made of good quality hardened steel wire of 4 mm diameter.The
arrows are made400 mm in length, are pointed at one and the other end is bent into a loop or
circle.
4. Ranging rods: Ranging rods are used to range some intermediate points in the survey line.
The length of the ranging rod is either 2m or 3m. They are shod at bottom with a heavy iron
point. Ranging rods are divided into equal parts 0.2m long and they are painted alternately
black and white or red and white or red, white and black. When they are at considerable
distance, red and white or white and yellow flags about 25 cm square should be fastened at
the top.
5. Cross staff: The simplest instrument used for setting out a right angle. The common forms
of cross staff are: Open cross staff, French cross staff, Adjustable cross staff.
6. Prismatic compass: It is the most suitable portable form of compass used for surveying. A
prismatic compass consists of a circular box of about 100 mm diameter. A magnetic needle is
attached to a light circular aluminum ring balanced on a hard steel pointed pivot. The ring is
graduated to degree and half degree with 0° mark at the south end of the needle and 180°
mark at its north end. The graduations run clockwise, therefore, 90° mark is towards west and
270° mark is towards east. The figures on the ring are written inverted. When these are read
using a prism, they are erected and magnified. The object vane carries a vertical hair attached
to a suitable frame. Sight vane or eye slit consists of a vertical slit cut into the upper assembly
of the prism. The object vane and sight vane are hinged to the box, diagonally opposite at the
top. To sight an object, the sight vane is rotated with respect to N-S ends of the ring through
an angle which the line makes with the magnetic meridian. The angle read is the whole-circle
bearing of the line at the compass station. Brake pin may be used to dampen the oscillations
of the needle by pressing it. The sun glasses provided at the eye vane may be used to sight the
bright objects. When the instrument is not in use, the object vane frame may be folded on the
glass lid. It automatically presses against a bent lever, which lifts the needle off the pivot and
holds it against the glass lid. The other equipment and accessories used in this type of
surveying are tripod stand, chain, tape, ranging rods, pegs, plumb bob, hammer, field-book,
pencils, and eraser.

Arrow Ranging Rod Cross Staff
Prismatic Compass
7. Plane Table:The plane table with levelling head having arrangements for (a) levelling, (b)
rotationabout vertical axis, and (c) clamping in any required position.
Types of Plane Table
(i) The Traverse Table:The traverse table consists of a small drawing board mounted on a
lighttripod in such a way that the board can be rotated about the vertical axis and can be
clamped in any position. The table is levelled by adjusting tripod legs, usually by eye-
estimation.
(ii) The Johnson Table: This consists of a drawing board usually 45 x 60 cm or 60 x 75 cm.
The headconsists of a ball-and-socket joint and a vertical spindle with two thumb screws on
theunderside. The ball-and-socket joint is operated by the upper thumb screw. When the
upperscrew is free, the table may be tilted about the ball-and-socket for levelling. The clamp
is thentightened to fix the board in a horizontal position. When the lower screw is loosened,
thetable may be rotated about the vertical axis and can thus be oriented

(iii) The Coast Survey Table: This table is superior to the above, two types, and is generally
usedfor work of high precision. The levelling of the table is done very accurately with the
help ofthe three foot screws. The table can be turned about the vertical axis and can be fixed
in anydirection very accurately with the help of a clamp and tangent screw.
Plane Table with Accessories Alidade
8. Alidade
A plane table alidade is a straight edge with some form of sighting device.
Types of Alidade
(i) Plain alidade: It is generally consist of a metal or wooden rule with two vanes at the ends.
The two vanes or sights are hinged to fold down on the rule when the alidade is not in use.
One of the vanes is provided with a narrow slit while the other is open and carries a hair or
thin wire. Both the slits thus provide a definite line of sight which can be made to pass
through the object to be sighted. The alidade can be rotated about the point representing the
instrument station on the sheet so that the line of sight passes through the object to be sighted.
A line is then drawn against the working edge (known as the fiducial edge) of the alidade.
(ii) Telescopic alidade: The telescopic alidade is used when it is required to take inclined
sights. Also the accuracy and range of sights are increased by its use. It essentially consists of
a small telescope with a level tube and graduated arc mounted on horizontal axis.
9. Plumbing Fork: The plumbing fork, used in large scale work, is meant for centring the
table over the point o rstation occupied by the plane table when the plotted position of that
point is already known on the sheet. Also, in the beginning of the work, it is meant for
transferring the ground point on to the sheet so that the plotted point and the ground station
are in the same vertical line. The fork consists of a hair pin-shaped light metal frame having

arms of equal length, in which a plumb-bob is suspended from the end of the lower-arm. The
fitting can be placed with the upper arm lying on the top of the table and the lower arm below
it, the table being centred when the plumb-bob hangs freely over the ground mark and the
pointed end of the upper arm coincides with the equivalent point on the plan.
Plumbing Fork Trough Compass
10. Compass: The compass is used for orienting the plane table to magnetic north. The
compass used with a plane table is a trough compass in which the longer sides of the trough
are parallel and flat so that either side can be used as a ruler or laid down to coincide with a
straight line drawn on the paper.
11. Spirit Level: A small spirit level may be used for ascertaining if the table is properly
level. The level may be either of the tubular variety or of the circular type, essentially with a
flat base so that it can be laid on. The table and is truly level when the bubble is central. The
table is leveled by placing the level on the board in two positions at right angles and getting
the bubble central in both positions.
Spirit Level
12. Dumpy level: The dumpy level shown in figure consists of a telescope, generally the
internal focusing type, fixed on a vertical spindle. The telescope tube and the vertical spindle
are cast as one piece. The spindle revolves in the socket of the levelling head. The levelling
head consists of two parallel plates held apart by three (or four) levelling screws. The upper
plate is called tribrach and the lower one is called trivet stage. The telescope can be rotated in
the horizontal plane about its vertical axis. A sensitive level tube is fitted on the top of the
telescope or on its side. An inclined mirror is attached to the level tube to enable the observer
to view the bubble from the eye end of the telescope without moving round the instrument.
The cross hairs of the diaphragm normally have a vertical line and a horizontal line. When
instrument is in adjustment, the line of sight of the instrument is perpendicular to the vertical

and parallel to the bubble tube axis as shown in figure. The modern dumpy levels are
provided with a clamp for clamping the telescope to the tribrach in any desired position. Also
a graduated horizontal circle is provided to determine the direction of the telescope. The
dumpy level is simple in construction and requires fewer permanent adjustments.
Dumpy Level
13. Automatic level: The automatic level employs a gravity referenced prism or mirror
compensator to automatically orient the line of sight (line of collimation). The instrument is
quickly levelled when a circular spirit level is used. When the bubble has been centered or
nearly so, the compensator takes over and maintains the horizontal line of sight, even if the
telescope is slightly tilted. Automatic levels are extremely popular in present-day surveying
operations. They are quick to set up, easy to use, and can be obtained for use at almost any
required precision.
Automatic Level

14. Levelling Staff: Staffs used for levelling work are sectional and are assembled either
telescopically or by slotting onto one another vertically. Most modern designs are
manufactured in an aluminum alloy. Staff lengths are 3 m, 4 m or 5 m on extension. The
graduations are 10 mm deep spaced at 10 mm intervals, the lower three graduations in each
100 mm interval being connected by a vertical band to form an E shape, natural or reversed.
The 50 mm or 100 mm intervals are therefore located by these shapes. The graduations of the
first meter length are colored black on a white background, with the next meter length
showing red graduations and so on alternately.
Levelling Staff
15. The Theodolite: It is one of the most precise surveying instruments and is suitable for
measurement of horizontal as well as vertical angles. It has a powerful telescope and so it can
be used also for distance sighting. Theodolites are of two types. i) Transit type & ii) Non-
Transit type: A transit Theodolite is one in which the line of sight can be reversed by
reversing the telescope through 1800 in the vertical plane. The non-transit Theodolites are
either plain Theodolites or Y-Theodolites in which the telescope cannot be transited. Now
day’s only transit Theodolites are being used.
Transit Theodolite

GENERAL TERMINOLOGIES USED IN SURVEY PRACTICE
1. Main Station: Main station is a point in chain survey where the two sides of a traverse or
triangle meet. These stations command the boundaries of the survey and are designated
by capital letters such as A, B, C etc.
2. Tie Station or Subsidiary Station: Tie station is a station on a survey line joining two
main stations. These are helpful in locating the interior details of the area to be surveyed
and are designated by small letters such as a, b, c etc.
3. Main Survey Line: The chain line joining two main survey stations is called main survey
line. AB, BC are examples of main survey lines.
4. Tie Line or Subsidiary Line: A chain line joining two tie stations is called tie line such
as ab or cd. It is also called auxiliary line. These are provided to locate the interior details
which are far away from the main lines.
5. Base Line: It is the longest main survey line on a fairly level ground and passing through
centre of thearea. It is most important line as the direction of all other survey lines are
fixed with respectto this line.
6. Check Line: Check line or proof line is a line which is provided to check the accuracy of
the field work. The measured length of the check line and computed (scaled off the plan)
must be the same.AD is an example of check line.
7. Offset: It is the distance of the object from the survey line. It may be perpendicular or
oblique.
8. Chainage: It is the distance of a well-defined point from the starting point. In chain
surveying it is normally referred to as the distance of the foot of the offset from the
starting point on the chain line.
9. Bearing: Bearing of a line is its direction relative to a given meridian. A meridian in any
direction such as (1) True Meridian (2) Magnetic Meridian (3) Arbitrary Meridian True
Meridian
10. True meridian through a point i.e., the line in which a plane, passing that point and the
north and south poles, intersects with surface of the earth. It thus, passes through the true
north and south. The direction of true meridian through point can be established by
astronomical observations.

11. True Bearing: True bearing of a line is the horizontal angle which it makes with l the
true meridian through one of the extremities of the line. Since the direction of the
meridian through a point remains fixed, the true bearing of a line is a constant quantity.
12. Magnetic Meridian: Magnetic meridian through a point is the direction shown by a
freely floating and balanced magnetic needle free from all other attractive forces. The
direction of magnetic meridian can be established with the help of a magnetic compass.
13. Magnetic Bearing: The magnetic bearing of a line is the horizontal angle which it makes
with the magnetic meridian passing through one of the extremities of the line. A magnetic
compass is used tomeasure, it.
14. Arbitrary Meridian: Arbitrary meridian is any convenient direction towards a
permanent and prominent mark or signal, such as a church spire or top of a chimney.
Such meridians are used to determine the relative positions of lines in a small area.
15. Arbitrary Bearing: Arbitrary bearing of a line is the horizontal angle which it makes
with any arbitrary meridian passing through one of the extremities. A theodolite or
sextant is used to measure it.
16. Radiation: In this method the instrument is setup at a station and rays are drawn to
various stations which are to be plotted. The distances are cut to a suitable scale after
actual linear measurements on the ground are taken.
17. Traversing: In this method the table is set at each of the stations in succession. A
foresight is taken to the next station and the distance is cut to a suitably chosen scale.
18. Intersection: In this method two stations are so selected that all the other stations to be
plotted are visible from these. The line joining these two stations is called base line. The
length of this line is measured very accurately. Rays are drawn from these stations to the
stations to be plotted.The intersection of the rays from the two stations gives the positions
of the stations to be plotted on the drawing sheet. Sometimes, this method is also termed
as graphical triangulation.
19. Resection: It is a method of orientation employed when the table occupies a position not
yet located on the drawing sheet. Therefore, it can be defined as the process of locating
the instrument station occupied by the plane table by drawing rays from the stations
whose positions have already been plotted on the drawing sheet. The resection of two
rays will be the point representing the station to be located, provided the orientation at the
station to be plotted is correct, which is seldom achieved. The problem can be solved by

any of the methods such as resection after orientation by back ray, by two points, or by
three points.
20. Level Surface: A surface parallel to the mean spheroidal surface of the earth is called
level surface, e.g., a still lake. A level surface is a curved surface, every point on which is
equidistant from the centre of the earth. It is normal to the plumb line at all the points.
21. Vertical line: It is a line from any point on the earth's surface to the centre of the earth. It
is commonly considered to be the line defined by a plumb line.
22. Level line: It is a line lying on a level surface. It is normal to the plumb line at all the
points.
23. Horizontal plane: It is a plane tangential to the level surface at the point under
consideration. It is perpendicular to the plumb line.
24. Horizontal line: It is a line lying in the horizontal plane. It is a straight line tangential to
the level line.
25. Axis of telescope: It is a line joining the optical centre of the objective to the centre of the
eyepiece.
26. Line of collimation: It is a line joining the intersection of the cross-hairs to the optical
centre of the objective and its continuation. It is also called the line of sight.
27. Axis of level tube or bubble tube: It is an imaginary line tangential to the longitudinal
curve of the tube at its mid-point.
28. Height of instrument (H.I.):It is the elevation of the plane of collimation when the
instrument is leveled. It should be noted that the height of instrument does not mean the
height of the centre of the telescope above the ground, where the level is set up.
29. Back sight (B.S.):It is a staff reading taken on a point of known elevation, e.g., a sight on
a bench mark or on a change point. It is the first staff reading taken after the level is set
up. It is also called plus sight.
30. Fore sight (F.S.):It is a staff reading taken on a point whose elevation is to be
determined, e.g., a sight on a change point. It is also called a minus sight. It is the last
staff reading and denotes the shifting of the instrument.
31. Intermediate sight (I.S):It is a staff reading taken on a point of unknown elevation
between back sight and foresight. Change point (C.P.) or turning point (T.P.). It is a point,
denoting the shifting of the level. Both F.S. and B.S. are taken on this point.
32. Station: A point, whose elevation is to be determined is called station.

33. Parallax: It is the apparent movement of the image relative to the cross-hairs when the
image formed by the objective does not fall in the plane of the diaphragm.
34. Bench Mark: It is a fixed reference point of known elevation. Depending upon the
permanency and precision, bench marks may be of the following types: Great
trigonometric survey (G. T.S.) bench marks (B.M.)These are established by the Survey of
India at an interval of about of 100 km all over the country with respect to the mean sea
level at Karachi as datum. Their elevations are shown ona G.T.S. map.
a. Permanent bench marks: These are established between the G.T.S. bench marks by
the government agencies like P.W.D. on clearly defined and permanent points such
as the top of a parapet wall of a bridgeor culvert, kilometer stone, railway platform
etc.
b. Arbitrary bench marks: These are reference points whose elevations are arbitrarily
assumed for small leveling operations. Their elevations do not refer to any fixed
datum.
c. Temporary bench marks: These are the reference points on which a day's work is
closed and from where levelling is continued the next day. Such a B.M. is carefully
established on permanent objects like km stones, parapets, etc.
35. Centering: Keeping the instrument exactly above the station mark, by means of a plumb
bob is known as centering.
36. Transiting: Turning the telescope about the horizontal axis in the vertical plane through
180° is called transiting.
37. Face Left: If the vertical circle of the Theodolite is on the left of observer at the time of
taking readings. It is known as face left and also called as telescope normal (or) bubble
up.
38. Face Right If the vertical circle of the Theodolite is on the right of observer at the time of
taking readings it is knows as face right. It is also called as telescope inverted (or) bubble
down.
39. Changing Face: Operation of bringing the vertical circle from one side of the observer to
the other side is known as changing face. It is done by transiting the telescope and turning
it through 1800 in the horizontal plane.
40. Swinging The Telescope: It is the process of turning the telescope in horizontal plane. If
the telescope is rotated in clockwise direction. It is known as right swing. If the telescope
is rotated in anticlockwise direction. It is known as left swing.

41. Line of Collimation: It is the line joining the intersection of cross hairs and optical center
of the objects glass and its continuation.
42. Axis of Telescope: Imaginary line passing through the optical center of the objects glass
and the optical center of the eyepiece.
43. Axis of Bubble Tube: It is an imaginary line tangential to the longitudinal curve of the
bubble tube at its middle.
44. Horizontal Axis: It is the axis about which the Theodolite of the telescope rotates in the
horizontal plane.
45. Vertical Axis: It is the axis about which the Theodolite of the telescope rotates in the
vertical plane.

Exercise: 1(a) MEASUREMENT OF DISTANCE
Objective: Measurement of distance along horizontal plane

Instruments required: Chain, Tape, Arrows, Ranging Rods, and Line Ranger.
Theory: There are several types of instruments used to measure distance between two points,
the most common being ranging rods. The simplest instrument used for setting out angle is a
cross staff.
Procedure:
1. Let A and B be the two points at the ends of a survey line.
2. Erecting the ranging rod at each point A and B
3. The surveyor should stand about 2 m behind the ranging rod at A.
4. Assistants should hold ranging rod vertically at arms length at point where it is
desired to establish the intermediate C between A & B.
5. The surveyor at A should direct the assistant to move the ranging rod to the right or
left by surveying signals until all three points in the same line.
6. Signals for ranging
7 After the signal by the surveyor the rod should be fixed at the point C.
8 Same procedure continued for fixing the other intermediate points in that line.
9 Stretch the chain the along the ground, the length between A & B calculated.
10 The error in the chaining can be calculated by measuring the distance from the tape.
A D C E B
Result:
a) Distance between A and B by Chaining =

b) Distance between A and B by Tape =
Line AD DC CE EB Total Distance

TAPE
METRIC CHAIN
Objective: To measure the distance between two points on a sloping ground.

Instruments required: Chain, Tape, Arrows, Ranging Rods, Line Ranger.
Procedure:
There are three methods of measurement on a slopping ground
i) Direct Method – Also known as method of stepping
Department of Civil Engineering, ATMECE, Mysuru Page 1

1. A suitable length is selected, such the tape or chain remains horizontal. This
distance is measured as D1
2. The point is then transferred to the ground using a plumb bob.
3. Now the zero end of the tape is held at the new position and the tape is
stretched suitably for a required length.
4. This distance is measured as D2. The process is repeated till the last point.
The total distance = D1+D2+D3+….
Result:
The distance between the two given points ____________

Exercise: 1(a) MEASUREMENT OF DISTANCE
Objective: To set out perpendiculars at various points on given line using cross staff.
Instruments required: Chain, Arrows, Ranging rods, Cross staff
Theory: There are several types of instruments used to set out a right angle to a chain line,
the most common being cross staff, optical square.
The simplest instrument used for setting out angle is a cross staff. It consists of either a frame
or box with two parts of vertical slits and is mounted on a pole for fixing in the ground. The
most common forms of cross staff are open cross staff, French cross staff, and adjustable
cross staff.
Cross Staff
Procedure
1. Let A and B be the two end stations on a survey line AB.
2. Select a point C on the chain line from where a perpendicular is to be set out.
3. The cross staff is held vertically at the point C with one pair of opposite slits directed
to the ranging rods at A and B.
4. Through the other pair of slits the surveyor directs the assistant to fix a ranging rod at
D. Thus the perpendicular CD is set out on AB at C.
Result
The perpendiculars are set out at various points of line AB.
Optical Square: It is more accurate and convenient instrument for finding foot of the
perpendicular or to set a right angle. It is a metal box of 50mm dia. and 120 mm deep. There
three openings such as pin hole, a small rectangular slot and a large rectangular slot
To set a right angle on a survey line, the instrument is held on the line with its center on the
point at which perpendicular is erected. The slits F&G are directed towards the ranging rod
fixed at the end of the line. The surveyor rod and stationing in a direction roughly
perpendicular to the chain line, to move till the two images described above coincide.

Optical Square
Procedure
1. Let A and B be the two end stations on a survey line AB.
2. Select a point C on the chain line from where a perpendicular is to be set out.
3. The Optical Square is held vertically at the point C. The line of sight is kept along the
line AB.
4. The assistant is asked to move along the ranging rod at D till it appears above the ranging
rod at B.
5. Joint the points C and D. CD will be perpendicular to AB.
Result
The perpendiculars are set out at various points of line AB.
Viva questions
1. What are the types of chains?
2. What are the types of tapes?
3. What is the least count of tape and chain?
4. Differentiate between cross staff and optical square?
5. Define ranging?
6. Mention types of ranging?
Course Outcome
Measurement of distances between two points using tape.
Further Reading
1. http://bhagwantuniversity.ac.in/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/SURVEYING-LAB-
MANUAL.pdf
2. https://www.scribd.com/doc/183009640/SURVEYING-I-LAB-MANUAL-pdf
3. http://www.chennaiinstituteoftechnology.com/wp-
content/uploads/2015/02/surveying-II-lab-manual.pdf

Exercise: 2 MEASUREMENTS OF BEARINGS
Objective: Measurements of bearings / directions using prismatic compass, setting of

geometrical figures using prismatic compass.
Instruments used: Prismatic Compass with Tripod, Chain, Tape, Arrows, Ranging rods.
Theory: In traverse surveying the directions of survey lines are fixed by angular
measurements. This survey is one in which the frame work consists of a series of connected
lines. The length and directions of which are measured with a chain or a tape and with an
angular instrument respectively.
A traverse may be classified as i) Closed traverse ii) Open traverse.
Closed traverse is said to be closed when a complete circuit is made that is, when it returns to
the starting point forming a closed polygon. The work may be checked and balanced.
Interior angle of regular polygon = [(2n-4)/n] × 90°
n=5 If it is regular pentagon….. For Hexagon n=6…..so on
Deflection angles (∆) between sides produced are as follows...….
∆ =180°- Interior Angle (IA)
Construction of Rectangle, Pentagon & Hexagon of side 5m & Fore Bearing as 20°:
Rectangle construction
The included angle of geometrical figure is given by the angle
[2 − 4 ] ∗ 90°
=
For a rectangle, the number of sides, n = 4
[ ( ) ]∗ °
= = 90°
∆ =180°- Interior Angle (IA) = 180°- 90° = 90°
Procedure:
 With the given bearing of AB and the condition that the angles of a rectangleare equal
to 90° the bearings of the sides BC, CD and DA are computed and entered inthe table
shown.
 In the field, a station A is selected and the compass is setup over A. after centering
and levelling, the bearing of AB is set on the compass.Thus, the direction of the line
ABis obtained and a ranging rod is fixed in that direction.
 From A, a distance of 5m is measured and station B is marked.
 The compass is shifted to B and after centering and levelling. The station A
isobserved to check the BB of the line AB which should be equal to 180± bearing of
AB
 The bearing of the next line BC, which is calculated is set on the compass and the
direction of the line BC is obtained and a ranging rod is fixed at a convenient
distance.
 From B a distance of 4m is measured along this direction and station C is marked on
the ground.

 Steps are repeated to set the remaining points on the ground.
Fore Bearing Back Bearing Length

Line Actual Obtained Actual Obtained
AB
BC
CD
DA
Theoretical Parameters: Sides AB+BC+CD+DA = _______________mts
Practical Parameters: Sides AB+BC+CD+DA = ________________ mts
% Error in the traverse= 100 = _____________ %
Result: The Rectangle of 5m x 4m has been set out using the prismatic compass
Pentagon construction

[2 − 4 ] ∗ 90°
=
[ ( ) ]∗ °
= = 108°
Procedure:
 Set out the compass at station A & make temporary adjustments. The line of sight is
turned to set the bearing of line AB, along this line of sight mark a point B at a
distance of 6m.
 Shift the compass to point B and make the temporary adjustments. The back bearing
of AB is noted as a check the line of sight is turned to set the bearing of line BC along
the line of sight mark a point C along a distance of 6m.

 Now the compass is shifted to point B to set the bearing of line as calculated, along
this line of sight mark a point C at a distance of 6m.
 Now the compass is shifted to point C, to set the bearing of line as calculated, along
this line of sight mark a point D at a distance of 6m.
 The same procedure is repeated at a corresponding points D&E & corresponding
bearings are locked and the points are marked as check, measure the distance of EA

AB
BC
CD
DE
EA
Theoretical Parameters: Sides AB+BC+CD+DE+EA = _______________mts
Practical Parameters: Sides AB+BC+CD+DE+EA = ________________ mts
% Error in the traverse= 100 = _____________

%
Result: The Pentagon of side 6m has been set out using the prismatic compass
Hexagon construction

[2 − 4 ] ∗ 90°
=
[ ( ) ]∗ °
= = 120°

Procedure:
 Set out the compass at station A & make temporary adjustments. The line of sight is
turned to set the bearing of line AB, along this line of sight mark a point B at a
distance of 6m.
 Shift the compass to point B and make the temporary adjustments. The back bearing
of AB is noted as a check the line of sight is turned to set the bearing of line BC along
the line of sight mark a point C along a distance of 6m.
 Now the compass is shifted to point B to set the bearing of line as calculated, along
this line of sight mark a point C at a distance of 6m.
 Now the compass is shifted to point C, to set the bearing of line as calculated, along
this line of sight mark a point D at a distance of 6m.
 The same procedure is repeated at a corresponding points D,E& F& corresponding
bearings are locked and the points are marked as check, measure the distance of EF
and FE

AB
BC
CD
DE
EF
FA
Theoretical Parameters: Sides AB+BC+CD+DE+EF+FA = _______________mts

Practical Parameters: Sides AB+BC+CD+DE+EF+FA = ________________ mts
% Error in the traverse= 100 = _____________

%
Result: The Hexagon of side 6m has been set out using the prismatic compass

Viva questions
1. Define true bearing?
2. What are the differences between prismatic and surveyors compass?
3. What is the least count of compass?
4. How do you determine internal angle of a geometric figure?
5. Define deflection angle?
6. Define traverse?
Course Outcome
Measurement of bearings
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 3 DETERMINATION OF DISTANCE BETWEEN 2 INACCESSIBLE

POINTS
Objective: Determination of distance between two inaccessible points using compass and
accessories.
Instruments required: Prismatic compass with tripod, Chain, Tape, Arrows, Ranging rods.
Theory:
Prismatic compass is an instrument based on the principle that a freely suspended or
pivoted magnetic needle point in the direction of magnetic meridian. The bearings of lines are
obtained in the WCB system.
Procedure: It is required find the distance between two points P and Q. Both P and Q are
inaccessible.
1. Select two stations A and B on the ground such that line AB is nearly parallel to line
PQ.
2. Measure the distance AB.
3. Centre the prismatic compass over station A and observe the bearings of lines AP, AQ
and
4. AB and record it as θ1, θ2 and θ3 Thus angles α and β can be obtained.
5. Centre the prismatic compass over station B and observe the bearings of lines BA, BP
and
6. BQ and record them as θ4, θ5 and θ6. Thus angles γ and δ can be obtained
Figure: Distance between two inaccessible points – compass survey

Observations and Calculations:
Θ1 Θ2 Θ3 Θ4 Θ5 Θ6

1) α = θ2 - θ1 = ; β = θ 3 – θ2 = ; γ = θ 5 – θ4 = ; δ = θ 6 – θ5 =
2) PB = ( )
∗ ( + ) =
3) QB = ( )
∗ ( )=
4) PQ = (PB2 + QB2 – 2*PB*QB*Cos δ) ½ =
Result: Distance between inaccessible points PQ is = __________________ mts
Viva questions
1. What is true bearing?
2. What are the differences between accessible and inaccessible points?
3. Define whole circle bearing?
4. What do you mean by preliminary adjustments?
Course Outcome
Measurement of distance between two inaccessible points using compass
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 4 SIMPLE LEVELING
Objective: Determination of reduced levels of points using dumpy level/auto level (simple
leveling)
Instruments used: Dumpy Level, Tape, Tripod, Levelling staff.
Theory: The operation of leveling for determining the difference in elevation between two
points or reduced levels of a number of points visible from single position of the level is
known as simple leveling.
Procedure:
1. The instrument is placed in a point there by we can easily sight B.M. The following
initial adjustments are made.
a) The instrument is fixed in tripod stand and it is leveled approximately by leg
adjustment.
b) The clamp is loosened and the instrument is turned until the longitudinal axis of
the plane level is parallel to the line joining only two leveling screws.
c) The foot screws are uniformly turned such that it means either inward or outward
such that the bubble is at the center.
d) The plate level is located and made parallel to line joining the third foot screw and
midpoint of the first two foot screws.
e) The third screw is adjusted to make the bubble central.
f) The instrument is rotated through 180º to check whether the bubble remains
central after rotation the eye piece is adjusted to avoid parallax error.
2. The staff is kept at a given bench mark and readings is noted in back sight column.
3. Then the intermediate readings are taken and entered in intermediate sight column.
4. Finally the last reading is entered in the fore sight column.
5. The RL of the points are found using HI method and Rise and Fall method
Observation:
Height of Instrument Method

Tabulation
Station B.S I.S F.S Height of Reduced Remarks
(m) (m) (m) Collimation Level
(m) (m)
Arithmetic Check = ∑BS - ∑FS = LRL – FRL
Rise and Fall Method

Tabulation
Station B.S I.S F.S Rise Fall Reduced Remarks
(m) (m) (m) (m) (m) Level
(m)
Arithmetic Check = ∑BS - ∑FS = ∑Rise - ∑Fall = LRL – FRL
Result: Thus R.L of the points was found out by simple leveling
Viva questions
1. What is the least count of leveling staff?
2. What are the differences between dumpy level and auto level?
3. Define back sight?
4. Define foresight?
5. Define intermediate sight?
6. Define bench mark?
7. What are the temporary adjustments of a dumpy level?
Course Outcome
Determination of reduced level of points using simple leveling
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 5 DIFFERENCE IN ELEVATION BETWEEN TWO POINTS
Objective: Determination of reduced levels of points using dumpy level/auto level

(differential leveling and inverted leveling)
Instruments used: Dumpy Level, Tape, Tripod, Levelling staff.
Theory: In this method the height of the instrument is found out by adding the back sight
reading to the R.L of the B.M on which the B.S is taken. Then the R.L of the intermediate
points and the change point are obtained by subtracting the respective staff reading from the
H.I.
Terms and Abbreviations:

H.I – Height of Instrument
B.S – Back Sight (Plus sight)
F.S- Fore Sight (Minus sight) (Except in special cases of tunnel Survey)
I.S- Intermediate Sight (Minus sight)
T.S- Turning point or Changing Point
B.M- Bench Mark
Procedure:
1. Set up instrument near to ‘A’ & do the preliminary adjustments.
2. Select a suitable bench mark and assume its RL say 100.00 m take a BS on it.
Calculate HI from equation RL of BM + BS = HI.
3. Now take FS by keeping the staff in forward direction and entering in FS column.
Calculate Elevation of the point (RL) = HI – FS.
4. Shift the instrument in some other position in Fore Sight direction and set up there
and take BS getting on change point (Turning Point) and then take FS reading by
keeping staff in forward direction.
5. The process is repeated in same manner work out last point ‘B’ is reached.
6. Work out the RL of all the points by any method apply necessary check & find out
level difference between points A & B.
Result:

The difference in elevation between two points =
A) Height of the Instrument method (Collimation Method)

Station BS IS FS H.I RL Remarks
BM
Checked
Check:
ΣB.S – ΣF.S = (LAST R.L – FIRST R.L)
B) Rise & fall method
Station BS IS FS Rise Fall RL Remarks

BM
Checked
Check:
ΣB.S – ΣF.S = (LAST R.L – FIRST R.L) = (Σ RISE – Σ FALL)
Inverted Staff Levelling

Theory: The method is most useful when the level of an object is to be found which is above
the line of collimation. The level staff is held inverted on the object and the reading are noted
as negative in the level book and also the readings are treated as negative in the reduction of
levels.
Procedure:
1. Set up the instrument near the building or the object whose R.L needs to be determined

and do all the temporary adjustments

2. Take a B.S on a temporary bench mark, with the staff held in the correct ( Normal )
position
3. Invert the staff and hold it on the building and note the staff reading and tabulate the
reading as a negative in the level book.
4. Determine the R.L of the building by adding the B.S to the F.S
Observation
Station B.S I.S F.S Height of Reduced Remarks
(m) (m) (m) Collimation (m) Level(m)
Check:
Result: The R.L of the object on which an inverted staff was held was found to be
Viva questions
8. What is the purpose of doing inverted leveling?
9. Define mean sea leveling?
10. Define reduced level?
Course Outcome
Determination of reduced level of points using simple leveling
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 6 RECIPROCAL LEVELLING
Objective: To determine the difference in elevation between two points using Reciprocal
leveling and to determine the collimation error.
Instruments used: Dumpy Level with Tripod, Tape & Chain, Arrows, Levelling staff.
Procedure:
1. Let ‘A’ & ‘B’ be the points and observation be made with a level, the line of sight of
which is inclined upwards when the bubble is in the centre of its run.
2. The level is set up at a point near ‘A’ and staff readings are taken on ‘A’ & ‘B’ with the
bubble in the centre of its run.
3. Since BM is very near to instrument, no error due to curvature, refraction & collimation
will be introduced in the staff readings at ‘A’, but there will be an error e in the staff
reading on ‘B’.
4. The level is then shifted to the other banks on a point very near BM, ‘B’ and the
readings are taken on staff held at ‘B’ and ‘A’.
5. Since ‘B’ is very near there will be no error due to the three factors in readings but the
staff reading ‘A’ will have an error e.
6. Let ha & hb be the corresponding staff reading on ‘A’ & ‘B’ for the first set of the level
and ha’ & hb’ be the readings for the second set.
Referring to first figure:

Since A is very near, error in reading at A is negligible. Therefore ha is accurate reading.
Assume error in hb be 'e',
Then accurate reading at B = hb - e
∴ Difference in elevations = H = ha - (hb - e) ... (i)

(ii) Referring to second figure, since B is very near to instrument, h b′, may be taken as
accurate reading.
Accurate reading at A = ha′ - e
Difference in elevations H = (ha′ - e) - hb′ ... (ii)
From equations (i) and (ii) we obtain,
2 H = ha - (hb - e) + (ha′ - e) - hb′
= (ha + ha′) - (hb + hb′)
(ha + ha ′ ) - (hb + hb ′ )
Result:
1) Combined correction =
2) Collimation error =
Viva questions
8. Where you are going to perform reciprocal leveling?
Course Outcome
Determination of the difference in elevation between two points using Reciprocal leveling
and to determine the collimation error
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 7 PROFILE LEVELLING
Objective: To conduct profile leveling, cross sectioning and block leveling. Plotting profile
and cross sectioning in excel. Block contour on graph paper to scale
Instruments used: Dumpy Level with Tripod, Tape/Chain, Arrows, Levelling staff.
Theory: Profile Levelling is an operation to determine elevations of points spaced apart at

known distances along a given line. The purpose of profile Levelling is to provide data from
which a vertical section of the ground surface along a surveyed line can be plotted.
Longitudinal sectioning and cross sectioning are examples of profile Levelling.
a) Longitudinal sectioning: to find out the elevations of the points on the ground at fixed
intervals along the center line of proposed sewer lines, pipelines, highways, railways, canals,
etc.
b) Cross sectioning: to find out the elevations of the points on the ground at fixed intervals on
either side or perpendicular to center line of proposed highways, canals, etc.
Procedure for carrying out the Longitudinal Section:
1. Fix the center line alignment for the project under consideration.
2. Mark the points on this alignment at regular intervals by means of arrow pins.
3. Note down the bearings of each section of line by setting the prismatic compass at
each of the turning points.
4. Set up the Dumpy level to one side of the profile line and note down the BS reading
by holding the staff on the nearby B.M and calculates the Hl for the first station.
5. Hold the staff at each of the point marked on the profile line and note down the I.S.
6. When the readings on the staff are not very clear, note down the staff reading FS. By
holding the staff on a permanent point.
7. Shift the instrument and set it further equalizing the length of F.S. and BS and then
note down the BS
8. Repeat the procedure from step till the end of the profile line.
Profile Levelling – Longitudinal Section (LS)

Table: Height of the Instrument Method for Profile Levelling – LS

Station BS IS FS HI RL Remarks
Check:
Procedure for carrying out the Cross Section:
1. Fix the center line alignment for the project under consideration.
2. Mark the points on this alignment at regular intervals by means of arrow pins.
3. Note down the bearings of each section of line by setting the prismatic compass at
each of the turning points.
4. Set up the Dumpy level to one side of the profile line and note down the BS reading
by holding the staff on the nearby B.M and calculates the Hl for the first station.
5. Hold the staff at each of the point marked on the profile line and note down the I.S.
6. Cross sections are taken at regular intervals (such as 0, 5, 10, 15, 20……) along the
alignment.
7. When the readings on the staff are not very clear, note down the staff reading FS. By
holding the staff on a permanent point.
8. Shift the instrument and set it further equalizing the length of F.S. and BS and then
note down the BS
9. Repeat the procedure till the end of the profile line.
Profile Levelling – Cross Section (CS)

Table: Height of the Instrument Method for Cross Sectioning – CS
Station Distance BS IS FS H.I R.L Remarks

L C R
BM
A 0
L1
L2
L3
R1
R2
R3
B 10
L1
L2
L3
R1
R2
R3
C 20
L1
L2
L3
R1
R2
R3
Check:
Procedure for carrying out the Block Levelling:

1. On the parcel of the ground for which contour map has to be made establish a square
grid of points at a suitable interval ( anywhere between 3m to 20m) by means of direct
ranging and fix arrows as shown in figure given below.
2. Carry out differential Levelling to find the R.L.’s of every arrow point and enter the
readings in table.
3. Draw the same grid that is established on the ground on the drawing sheet to a
suitable scale.
4. Indicate on the drawn grid the reduced levels of each grid point.
5. Choose suitable values for elevations of contour lines.
6. Draw contour lines on the grid by interpolation.

Figure: Profile Levelling – Block Levelling

Table : Height of the Instrument Method for Block Levelling
Station BS IS FS HI RL Remarks
Check:
Result: The profile of the given ground has been plotted as per scale

Viva questions
10. Define block leveling?
11. What is the purpose of taking longitudinal and cross sections?
Course Outcome
Plotting profile and cross sectioning in excel
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 8 MEASUREMENT OF ANGLE
Objective: Measurement of horizontal angle by repetition method using theodolite.
Instruments used: Theodolite with tripod, Arrows.
Method of repetition:
Procedure:
Horizontal Angle by Method of Repetition

To measure the angle PQR
1. With reference to the Figure, the procedure to measure angle AOB shall be as follows
2. Set the instrument on the station and make the temporary adjustment.
3. With both the clamps released the lower plate reading is brought to nearly 0° the
upper clamp is then tightened and the reading is made precisely 0°0’0” by using the
upper tangent screw.
4. Release the lower clamp and swing the telescope until the left-hand station (‘A’) is
approximately sighted, tighten the lower tangent screw. The exact bisection should be
achieved through the lower tangent screw.
5. Unclamp the upper clamp. Swing the telescope in clockwise direction, until the
second station (‘B’) is sighted, tighten the upper clamp. Bisect the station exactly with
the help of the upper tangent screw. The lower plate reading will give the horizontal
angle.
6. Release the lower clamp and once again bisect the left-hand station (‘A’) exactly.
7. Unclamp the upper clamp. Swing the telescope in clockwise direction, until the
second station (‘B’) is sighted accurately. This completes two repetitions and the
lower plate reading now gives double horizontal angle.
8. The procedure above two steps is repeated three to six times, depending upon the
accuracy required.
9. Note the readings against vernier A& vernier B, and the mean horizontal angle is
obtained.
10. Change the face of the instrument and repeat the above procedure.
11. The average of the two face observations gives the required horizontal angle.

Observations and Calculations

Inst. Object Face: Left Swing: Right
Station Station Vernier A Vernier B Vernier Mean No. Hor. Angle
° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ of ° ‘ ‘’
Rep
Inst. Object Face: Right Swing: Left

° ‘ ” ‘ ” ° ‘ ” of ° ‘ ’’
Rep
Horizontal Angle = (Avg. Horizontal Angle in Face Left + Avg. Horizontal Angle in Face
Right)/2
Result: The horizontal angle between the two given points is _____________
Method of Reiteration
Aim: To measure included angles between various points around the instrument station.
Instruments required: Vernier Transit Theodolite, Tripod Stand, Plumb Bob, Ranging Rods
and Pegs.
Principle: Several angles at a station are measured one after the other and finally the origin is
closed by sighting the first station. If there is any error in the first and final readings taken on
the initial station, the error is distributed equally among all the measured angles. It is most

commonly used in triangulation survey. The method in measuring a horizontal angle is

preferred when several angular measurements are to be made at a station all the angles are
measured successively and finally the origin is closed. The final reading and vernier ‘A’
should be same as the initial zero. If not the discrepancy is equally distributed among all the
angles
Procedure:
1. Set up instrument at ‘O’ and level it.
2. Set the vernier ‘A’ to read zero using upper clamp and upper tangent screw.
3. Direct the telescope towards point ‘B’ and bisect it exactly using the lower clamp and
lower tangent screw.
4. Loosen the upper clamp and bisect point ‘C’ accurately using upper tangent screw.
Read the both vernier ‘A’ &’ ‘B and take mean value.
5. Similarly bisect D etc, and Finally ‘B’ and read both the verniers in all the cases. The
last reading and vernier ‘A’ should be 360°. If not the discrepancy is noted and
distributed.
6. Repeat the procedure by changing the face.
Horizontal Angle by Method of Reiteration

Station Station Vernier A Vernier B Vernier Mean Hor. Angle
° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’


Station Station Vernier A Vernier B Vernier Mean Hor. Angle
° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’
Horizontal Angle = (Avg. Horizontal Angle in Face Left + Avg. Horizontal Angle in Face
Right)/2
Result: The horizontal angle between the given points are

1. ∠AOB =
2. ∠BOC =
3. ∠COD =
4. ∠DOA =
Vertical Angle
Aim: To Measure the Vertical Angle of the Object ‘A’ Shown With Respect To The Station
O.
Instruments required: Theodolite, ranging rods and Tape
Theory: A Vertical is the angle which the inclined line of right to an object makes with the
horizontal. The vertical angle is the angle of elevation when the line of sight is inclined
upwards from the horizontal line. It is the angle of depression when the line of sight is
inclined downward from the horizontal line.
Procedure:
1. Set up the theodolite over the station O and level it accurately with reference to the
altitude bubble.
2. Set the zero of the vernier ‘C’ exactly to the zero of the vertical circle by means of the
vertical circle clamp and tangent screw.
3. Bring the bubble of the altitude level to center of its run by means of clip screw the
line of collimation is the made horizontal which vernier reads zero.

4. Loosen the vertical circle clamp and direct the telescope towards the object A, clamp
the vertical circle clamp. Bisect A exactly by turning the tangent screw.
5. Read both the verniers C&D the mean of the two readings given the value of the
required angle.
6. Change the face of the instrument and repeat the same procedure. The mean of the
two vernier readings given the second value of the required angles.
7. The average of the two values thus obtained given the value of the required vertical
angle.
Measurement of Vertical Angle using theodolite

Inst. Object Face: Left
Station Station Vernier C Vernier D Vernier Mean Vertical. Angle
° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’
Inst. Object Face: Right

° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’
Vertical Angle = (Avg. Vertical Angle in Face Left + Avg. Vertical Angle in Face Right)/2

Result: The vertical angle between the given points are ________________________
Viva questions
1. What is the least count of theodolite?
2. Define face left and face right?
3. Define swing right and swing left?
Course Outcome
Measurement of horizontal angle by repetition and reiteration methods and Measurement of
vertical angles using theodolite
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 9 HORIZONTAL DISTANCE AND VERTICAL HEIGHT
Objective: Determination of horizontal distance and vertical height to a base inaccessible

object using theodolite by single plane.
Instruments used: Theodolite with tripod, Ranging rod, Arrow, Leveling staff, Tape etc.
Theory: A Theodolite can be used for the determination of the heights and distances of
objects, which are inaccessible. For example, the top of the Hill or an object bounded by
water. In such situations observations have to be made from two established stations. The two
instrument stations and the object may or may not be in the same vertical plane. In this case
the two instrument stations are so chosen that they are in the same vertical plane as that of the
object. This method is called as single plane method. With an adequate number of angular
and linear measurements, the required quantities can be computed from the trigonometry of
the figure. With reference to the figure we have,
Single Plane method – Base Inaccessible

h1-h2 = S2~S1 = S
 ±
D=  
In the above expression ‘+’ sign is used when the instrument axis at the further station is
higher than that at the station near to the object and ‘-‘sign is used for vice versa.
h1 = D tan1
h2 = (b + D) tan2
R.L. of Q = R.L. of B.M. + S1 + h1
R.L. of Q = RL of B.M. + S2 + h2

Procedure:
1. Set the Theodolite at a convenient position from the object such that the vertical
angles shall be between 30° to 60°. Level the instrument and eliminate the parallax.
2. Transfer the instrument center to the ground with a plumb bob as station ‘A’.
3. Obtain the vertical angle above the horizontal axis at stn. ‘A’ to the top of the object
by accurately sighting the top using the vertical clamp and tangent screw.
4. Repeat steps by changing the face and obtain the average vertical angle at ‘A’
5. Keeping the line of collimation horizontal take staff reading on the B.M.
6. Transit the Theodolite so as to locate station ‘B’ in the same vertical plane.
7. Measure a suitable distance ‘b’ from station ‘A’ to locate station ‘B’.
8. Shift the instrument to station ‘B’ and carry out centering and leveling.
9. Obtain the vertical angle above the horizontal axis at stn. ‘B’ to the top of the object
by accurately sighting the top using the vertical clamp and tangent screw.
10. Repeat steps by changing the face and obtain the average vertical angle at ‘B’.
12. Calculate the height and RL of the object using the trigonometric formulations.
° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’

° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’
The average vertical angles are α1 =

α2 =
Staff reading on Bench Mark From station ‘A’=S1=
Staff reading on Bench Mark Form station ‘B’=S2=

 ±
Distance from station ‘A’ to the object, D =  
=
Result:RL of top of the object=RL of BM+S1+ D tan α1 = _____________ mts

Check:RL of top of the object= RL of BM+S2+ (b+D) tan α2= _____________ mts
DISTANCE AND ELEVATION OF AN INACCESSIBLE OBJECT BY DOUBLE

PLANE METHOD
Aim: To determine the distance reduced level of an elevated object whose base is
inaccessible from the instrument station.
Instruments required: Transit Theodolite with stand leveling and tape
Theory: A Theodolite can be used for the determination of the heights and distances of
objects, which are inaccessible. For example the top of a hill or an object bounded by water.
In such situations observations have to be made from two established stations. The two
instrument stations and the object may or may not be in the same vertical plane. In this case
the two instrument stations are so chosen that they are in the two different vertical planes as
that of the object. This method is called a double plane method. With an adequate number of
angular and linear measurement, the required quantities can be computed from the
trigonometry of the figure. With reference to the figure we have
Double Plane Method

1= Horizontal angle measured at P
2= Horizontal angle measured at R
1= Vertical angle measured at A,
2= Vertical angle measured at B

From  le AQQ’, h1= D tan1

From  le PRQ1, ∠PQ1R = 3 = 180° - (1 + 2)
By applying sine rule
(PQ1/sin2) = (RQ1/Sing1) = (RP/sin3)
PQ1 = D1 = b sin2/ {sin (1+2)}
And RQ1=D2= b sin1/ {sin (1+2)}
Procedure:
1. Set the Theodolite at a convenient position from the object such that the vertical angle
shall be between 30° to 60°
2. Level the instrument and eliminate the parallax.
3. Transfer the instrument center to the ground with a plumb bob as station ‘P’.
4. Obtain the vertical angle above the horizontal axis at station. ‘P’ to the top of the
object by accurately sighting the top using the vertical clamp and tangent screw.
5. Repeat step by changing the face and obtain the average vertical angle at ‘P’.
7. Locate station ‘R’ at a suitable distance from ‘P’ such that the angles of the horizontal
triangle formed by station ‘P’, station ‘R’ and the object shall be between 30°to 60°.
8. Measure the distance ‘b’ from station ‘P’ to station ‘R’.
9. Shift the instrument to station ‘R’ and carry out centering and leveling.
10. Obtain the vertical angle above the horizontal axis at station ‘R’ to the top of the
object by accurately sighting the top using the vertical clamp and tangent screw.
11. Repeat step by changing the face and obtain the average vertical angle at ‘R’.
13. Calculate the height and RL of the object using the trigonometric formulations.
Station Station Vernier C Vernier D Vernier Mean Vertical. Angle (α1)
° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’


Station Station Vernier C Vernier D Vernier Mean Vertical. Angle (α2)
° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’
Table : Determination of Vertical angle for Double Plane method
Average Vertical Angle

α1 =
α2 =
° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ of ° ‘ ‘’
Rep

° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ of ° ‘ ‘’
Rep
Table : Determination of Horizontal angle for Double Plane method
Average Horizontal Angle

θ1 =
θ2 =
Staff reading on Bench Mark From station ‘P’=S1=

Staff reading on Bench Mark Form station ‘R’=S2=
Distance from station ‘P’ to the object= D1 = b sin2/ {sin (1+2)}

Distance from station ‘R’ to the object= D2 = b sin1/ {sin (1+2)}

h1=D1 tan α1
h2=D2 tan α2
Result:RL of top of the object=RL of BM+S1+h1= _____________ mts
Check: RL of top of the object=RL of BM+S2+h2 = _____________ mts
Viva questions
1. Define single plane and double plane?
3. Define benchmark?
Course Outcome
Determination of horizontal distance and vertical height to a base inaccessible object using
theodolite by single plane and double plane method
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise - 10 DETERMINATION OF DISTANCE AND ELEVATION
Objective: To determine distance and elevation using tachometric surveying with horizontal
line of sight.
Instruments used: Tacheometer with tripod, Arrow, Leveling staff, Tape etc.
Theory: Tacheometry is a branch of surveying in which distances and elevations are

determined from instrumental observations only. The basic principle of stadia method of
tacheometry is that if the length of the base and the apex angle of an isosceles or right angled
triangle are known, the perpendicular distance from the apex can be calculated. The distance
formula for horizontal line of sight is D = K s + C the tacheometer is so constructed that
normally K=100 and by fixing ananallactic lens the additive Constant is made zero.
Procedure:
1. Set the instrument at Q and level it. With the help of upper clamp and upper tangent
provided at the vertical circle set vernier C to 0°00´00´´. Which keeps the telescope
horizontal.
2. Direct the telescope towards the point P where distance and elevation of the point is to
be determined. Bisect point P accurately by upper clamp and tangent screws.
3. After exact bisection measure central stadia reading, staff intercept and Staff reading
on BM.
Determination of distance of an inaccessible point Stadia Readings using tachometry

Staff Intercept = S = Upper Stadia – Lower Stadia = ________________ mts
Staff Reading on Benchmark = ________________ mts
Central Cross Hair reading = ________________ mts
Distance, D = KS + C, where K = 100 and C = 0
Elevation of the object/point = R.L of B.M + Staff reading on B.M - Central Cross hair
reading

Result: The distance of the inaccessible point from the instrument station is
_______________ mts
Elevation of the object = _____________________________ mts
INCLINED LINE OF SIGHT

Procedure
1. Set up the theodolite over the station O and level it accurately with reference to the
altitude bubble from where the distance and elevation are to be measured.
2. Unclamp the vertical circle clamp and direct the telescope towards the Staff placed at
elevated object at any inclined angle.
3. Read both the verniers C and D. The mean of the two readings gives the value of
required angle.
4. After measuring the vertical angle measure central stadia reading, staff intercept and
Staff reading on BM in order to calculate the distance and measurement.
Angle of Elevation for tachometry

° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’

° ‘ ‘’ ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’ ° ‘ ‘’

Vertical Angle = (Avg. Vertical Angle in Face Left + Avg. Vertical Angle in Face Right)/2
Staff Intercept = S = Upper Stadia – Lower Stadia = ________________ mts

Staff Reading on Benchmark = ________________ mts
Central Cross Hair reading = ________________ mts
Angle of Elevation = _________________
Horizontal Distance, D is given by the formula, D = K S Cos2θ + C Cosθ
Vertical Distance, V is given by the formula, V = + C Sin θ
Elevation of the object/point = R.L of B.M + Staff reading on B.M + V - Central Cross hair
reading
Result: The distance of the inaccessible point from the instrument station is
_______________ mts
Elevation of the object = _____________________________ mts
Viva questions
1. What is the value of multiplying and additive constant?
2. What is staff intercept?
3. What is the difference between horizontal and inclined line of sight?
4. How to eliminate the parallax?
Course Outcome
Determination of distance and elevation using tachometric surveying with horizontal and
inclined line of sight
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 11 TRANSIT RULE AND BOWDITCH RULE
Objective: Closed traverse surveying using Theodolite and applying corrections for error of
closure by transit rule and Bowditch rule.
Instruments required: Theodolite with stand, Chain/tape, Ranging rods and Arrows.
Theory: A ‘traverse’ is a frame formed by a series of connected straight lines, none of which
is connected at each of its ends to lines more than one. The points defining the ends of the
traverse line are called traverse stations or traverse points. When the lines form a circuit
which ends at the starting point is known as a closed traverse. If the circuit ends elsewhere, it
is said to be an open traverse. Closed traverse is suitable for locating boundaries of lakes,
forests etc. Open traverse is suitable for surveying along long narrow strip of land required
for a road or canal or pipeline or the coast line.
The compass rule is based on the assumption that all lengths measured with equal care and all
angles taken with approximately the same precision. It is also assumed that the errors in
measurement are accidental and that the total error in any side of the traverse is directly
proportional to the total length of the traverse.
Transit method may be employed to balance the traverse when the angular measurements are
more precise than the linear measurements. In this method the total error in latitude and
departure is distributed in proportion to the latitude and departure of the traverse lines.
Correction for Closed Traverse using Compass rule and Transit rule

Procedure:
1. Select the traverse stations A, B, C, D & E (say as shown in figure given below) along
the boundary of the given area. Traverse stations must be chosen such a way that the
preceding and succeeding traverse stations must be visible from any traverse station.
2. Set up the theodolite over station ‘A’ and level it. Make the horizontal scale to read
0°0’0’’
3. Rotate the theodolite in clockwise direction until the back station E is sighted and
observe the WCB of line AE and record it in the table.
4. Rotate the theodolite until the forward station B is sighted and observe the WCB of
line AB and record it in the table.
5. Measure the distance AB and record it in the table.
6. Shift the instrument to the forward station B and carry out similar measurements and
recordings as is done in previous steps.
7. Similarly complete the work on remaining stations C, D and E
Line Fore Bearing Back Bearing Length Of Reduced

The Line Bearing (RB)
AB
BC
CD
DE
EA
Formulas for Bowditch Rule

Correction for Latitude =
Correction for Departure =
Total error in Latitude = Σ North Latitude – Σ South Latitude

Total error in Departure = Σ East Departure – Σ West Departure
NOTE: If the sum of the north latitudes exceeds the sum of the south latitudes, latitudes
corrections are subtracted from north latitudes and added to corresponding south latitudes,
and vice-versa. The rule shall be followed for correction to departure as well.

Latitude Departure
Reduced Correction Correction
Line Length L * Cos Θ L * Sin Θ
Bearing to Latitude to Departure
North South East West
AB
BC
CD
DE
EA
Sum Of Latitude & Departure
Correction to Correction to Corrected Corrected Corrected

Line Length
Latitude Departure Latitude Departure Bearing
AB
BC
CD
DE
EA
Formulas for Transit Rule

Correction for Latitude =
( )
Correction for Departure =
( )
Total error in Latitude = Σ North Latitude – Σ South Latitude
Total error in Departure = Σ East Departure – Σ West Departure
NOTE: If the sum of the north latitudes exceeds the sum of the south latitudes, latitudes
corrections are subtracted from north latitudes and added to corresponding south latitudes,
and vice-versa. The rule shall be followed for correction to departure as well.
TRANSIT RULE
Latitude Departure
Reduced Correction Correction
Line Length L * Cos Θ L * Sin Θ
Bearing to Latitude to Departure
North South East West
AB
BC
CD
DE
EA
Sum Of Latitude & Departure
Correction to Correction to Corrected Corrected Corrected

Line Length
Latitude Departure Latitude Departure Bearing
AB

BC
CD
DE
EA
Closing error, e = √∈ +∈
Tan θ = (ΣD/ΣL)
Result: The Closing Error of the traverse using Bowditch Rule is __________________
The Closing Error of the traverse using Transit Rule is _______________________
Viva questions
1. Define latitude and departure?
2. What is the formula to determine latitude and departure?
3. What do you mean by perimeter?
4. Define Bowditch’s rule?
5. Define open traverse?
6. Define closed traverse?
7. Define latitude and departure?
8. Define transit method?
Course Outcome
1. Adjustment of closing error by Bowditch method
2. Applying corrections for error of closure by transit rule
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 12 RADIATION AND INTERSECTION METHOD
Objective: To locate the points using Radiation and Intersection method of Plane table
surveying.
Temporary Adjustments: Three operations are needed Fixing Fixing the table to the tripod.
Setting (i) Levelling the table (ii) Centring (iii) Orientation.
 Levelling For small-scale work, levelling is done by estimation. For work of
accuracy, an ordinary spirit level may be used. The table is levelled by placing the
level on the board in two positions at right angles and getting the bubble central in
both directions. For more precise work, a Johnson Table or Coast Survey Table may
be used.
 Centring The table should be so placed over the station on the ground that the point
plotted on the sheet corresponding to the station occupied should be exactly over the
station on the ground. The operation is known as centring the plane table. As already
described this is done by using a plumbing fork.
 Orientation Orientation is the process of putting the, plane-table into some fixed
direction so that line representing a certain direction on the plan is parallel to that
direction on the ground. This is essential, condition to be fulfilled when more than one
instrument station is to be used. If orientation is not done, the table will not be parallel
to itself at different positions resulting in an overall distortion of the map. The
processes of centring and orientaion are dependent on each other. For orientation, the
table will have to be rotated about its vertical axis, thus disturbing the centring. If
precise work requires that the plotted point should be exactly over the ground point,
repeated orientation and shifting of the whole table are necessary. There are two main
methods of orienting the plane table: (i) Orientation by means of trough compass. (ii)
Orientaiton by means of backsighting.
RADIATION METHOD
Instruments required: Plane table and its accessories (tripod, alidade, trough compass,
plumbing fork, spirit level, drawing sheet, cello- tape, pencil, eraser and dusting cloth), chain,
tape, ranging rods, pegs, hammer and field-book.
Theory: Plane table is a surveying instrument that can be used to prepare a map or plan of an
area directly in the field without the direct measurement of any angles. Radiation is one of the

methods employed in plane table survey. This method is generally employed for locating the
details. In this method, a ray is drawn from the instrument station towards the point. The
distance is measured between the instrument station and the point. The point is located by
plotting to some scale the distance so measured. This method is more suitable for small
distances. One instrument station can cover several points to be detailed.
Radiation Method using Plane Table

Procedure:
1. Select a point ‘T’ on the ground so that all points to be located are visible from it.
2. Set up the table at ‘T’, level it, and do centering.
3. Transfer the point ‘T’ on to the drawing sheet by means of plumbing fork so that it is
exactly over station ‘T’ on the ground and name it ‘t’.
4. Mark the direction of the magnetic meridian on the drawing sheet by means of trough
compass.
5. Centering the alidade on ‘t’ BISECT the points A, B, C, D, E and F one after the other
and draw the rays along the fiducial edge.
6. Measure the distances TA, TB, TC, TD, TE and TF on the ground and plot their
distances to some scale along the corresponding rays and thus get the position of points
a, b, c, d, e, and f on the drawing sheet. (upper case letters are used to represent stations
on ground and lower case letters are used to represent stations on drawing sheet)
7. Join a,b,c,d,e and f on the drawing sheet.
Result: The given points on the ground have been plotted on the drawing sheet to scale

INTERSECTION METHOD
area directly in the field without the direct measurement of any angles. Intersection is one of
the methods employed in plane table survey. This method is generally employed for locating
the details. In this method the location of an object is determined by sighting at the object
from two plane table stations and drawing the rays. The intersection of these rays will give
the position of the object. Therefore in this method it is essential to have at least two plane
table stations. The distance between the two plane table stations is measured and plotted on
the sheet to some scale. The line joining the two plane table stations is known as the base
line. No linear measurement other than that of the base line is made in this method of
surveying. This method is preferred when the distance between the point and the plane table
station is either too large or cannot be measured accurately due to some field conditions.
Procedure: It is required to plot the position of ground points PQRS (shown in figure given
below) on the drawing sheet. The line AB is a base line measured on the ground. It is
represented by the line ab on the board drawn to scale. The position of the base line AB is
chosen such that it is in the middle of the boundary formed by PQRS.
1. Set up the plane table over A and orient the plane table by laying the alidade along the
drawn line ab and rotate the board until B is sighted from A through the alidade (Now
the line ab is aligned with line AB on the ground).
2. Pivot the alidade at ‘a’ and sight to the points P, Q, R & S and draw the rays. These rays
represent the lines of sight to these features.
3. Shift the table to B. Plumb point b on the board over B on the ground.
4. By laying the alidade along the drawn line ba rotate the board until A is sighted and
clamp the board (Now the line ab is aligned with line AB on the ground)
5. Mark the direction of the magnetic meridian on the drawing sheet by means of trough
compass.
6. Pivot the alidade at ‘b’ and sight to the points P, Q, R & S and draw the rays (The rays
from B will intersect those drawn from A, thus establishing the positions p, q, r and s on
the board).

7. Join the points p, q, r & s on the drawing sheet
Intersection Method using Plane Table
Result: The given points on the ground have been plotted on the drawing sheet to scale
Viva Questions
1. What is plane table?
2. What is the use of conducting radiation method?
3. Name the accessories used in plane table surveying?
4. What is use of back orientation in plane table surveying?
5. What is the use of plumb bob?
6. Name the accessories used in plane table surveying?
7. What is use of back orientation in plane table surveying?
8. What is the use of plumb bob?
9. When this method will be applicable?
Course Outcome
 Locating points using radiation method of plane tabling.
 Locating points using intersection method of plane tabling
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 13 BESSEL’S GRAPHICAL SOLUTION
Objective: To solve three point problem in plane table using Bessel’s graphical solution
area directly in the field without the direct measurement of any angles. In the process
sometimes a technique called ‘resection’ is employed. Resection is the process of
determining the plotted position of the station occupied by the plane table, by means of sights
taken towards known points, location of which have been plotted. In three-point problem the
position of occupied station on the drawing sheet is obtained by means of observations to
three well defined points whose positions have been previously plotted on the plan.
Three Point Problem – Bessel’s Graphical method

Procedure
Let us take three points A , B and C the plotted positions of which are known (a, b and c). Let
P be the point to be plotted. Therefore the whole problem is to orient the table at P.

1. After having set the table at station P, keep the alidade on ba and rotate the table so
that A is bisected. Clamp the table.
2. Pivot the alidade about b, sight to C and draw the ray x y along the edge of the
alidade.
3. Keep the alidade along ab and rotate the table till B is bisected. Clamp the table.
4. Pivot the alidade about a, sight to C. Draw the ray along the edge of the alidade to
intersect the ray x y in c′. Join c c′.
5. Keep the alidade along c′c and rotate the table till C is bisected. Clamp the table. Now
the table is correctly oriented.
6. Pivot the alidade about b, sight to B. Draw the ray to intersect c c′ in p. Similarly, if
alidade is pivoted about a and A is sighted, the ray will pass through p if the work is
accurate.
Note: The points a, b, c′ and p form a quadrilateral and all the four points lie along the
circumference of a circle. Hence this method is known as “Bessel’s Method of Inscribed
Quadrilateral”.
Result:
The points a, b, c & p form a quadrilateral.
Viva Questions
1. Define Bessel’s method.
2. What is the use of trough compass?
3. What is the use of plumbing fork?
4. What is 2-point problem?
5. What is 3-point problem?
Course Outcome
 Solving 3-point problem in plane tabling using Bessel’s graphical solution
Further Reading
MANUAL.pdf

Exercise: 14 DEMONSTRATION OF MINOR INSTRUMENTS
Objective: Demonstration of Minor instruments like Clinometer, Ceylon Ghat tracer, Box
sextant, Hand level, Planimeter, nautical sextant and Pentagraph.
HAND LEVEL
Hand level is a small compact leveling instrument which can be held in hand and leveling
work carried on. It is used for (i) Reconnaissance and preliminary survey (ii) Locating
contours, and (iii) Taking short cross-section
Hand Level
It consists of a rectangular tube 100 mm to 150 mm long. There is a small opening at the top
of the tube and a level tube is fitted exactly above this. The level tube is transparent both at
top and below. Below this, in half the width of tube a mirror is fixed at 450 . The other half
width is clear. At one end of the tube there is eye peep hole and at other end there is
objective. When the staff is sighted through the eye peep hole in half the portion staff is seen
directly while in other half, level bubble is seen. When in perfect adjustment, if hand level is
held horizontal, the middle of bubble and cross hair coincide and the reading is the correct
staff reading in the horizontal sight. Hence, it can be used as a leveling instrument. It is
usually held in hand at eye levels and observations are made. It may be suspended from a
raging rod for greater stability.

BOX SEXTANT
The box sextant is small pocket instrument used for measuring used for measuring horizontal
and vertical angles, measuring chain angles and locating inaccessible points. By setting the
vernier 90° it may be used as an optical square. Fig shows a box sextant.
Box Sextant
A box sextant consists of the following parts:
(1) A circular box about 8cm in diameter and 4cm high.
(2) A fixed horizon glass, silvered at lower half and plain at upper half.
(3) A movable index glass fully silvered.
(4) An index arm pivoted at the index glass and carrying a vernier at the other end.
(5) An adjustable magnifying glass, to read the angle
(6) A milled-headed screw to rotate the index glass and the index arm.
(7) An eye ole or peep hole or a telescope for long distance sighting.
(8) A pair of colored glasses for use in bright sun.
(9) A slot in the side of the box for the object to be sighted.
CLINOMETER
Indian pattern clinometer is used for determining difference in elevation between points and
is specially adopted to plane tabling. The clinometer is placed on the plane table, which is
leveled by estimation.

Clinometer
The clinometer is composed of the following:
1. A base plate carrying a small bubble tube and a leveling screw. Thus, the clinometer can be
accurately leveled.
2. The eye vane carrying a peep hole. The eye vane is hinged at its lower end to the base
plate.
3. The object vane having graduations in degrees at one side and tangent of the angles to the
other side of the central opening.
The object vane is also hinged at its lower end to the base plate. A slide provided with a small
window and horizontal wire in its middle, can b moved up and down the object vane by a
rack and pinion fitted with a milled head. The line of joining the peephole and the horizontal
wire of the slide defines the line of sight. When the instrument is not in use, the vanes fold
down over the base.
Use of Indian pattern clinometer with plane table
1. Set the plane table over the station and keep the Indian pattern clinometer on it.
2. Level the clinometer with the help of leveling screw.
3. Looking through the peephole, move the slide of the object vane till it bisects the signal at
the other point to be sighted. It is preferable to use a signal of the same height as that of the
peephole above the level of the plane table station.
4. Note the reading, i.e. tangent of the angle, against the wire. Thus, the difference in
elevation between the eye and the object distance X tangent of vertical angle d tan a.
The distance d between the plane table station and the object can be found from the plan. The
reduced level of the object canthus be calculated if the reduced level of the plane table station
is known.

CEYLON GHAT TRACER

This instrument illustrated in fig is used for setting out a grade contour, i.e. locating points on
a given gradient in the preliminary survey of a hill road, and also for measuring the angles of
slope.
It consist of
1. a hollow brass sighting tube suspended from a bracket and having a very small hole (eye
hole) at one extremity to which the eye is applied, and a larger opening with cross-wires at
the other the tube pivots round the point P and is held suspended from an upright staff,
2. A horizontal racked bar the bar is parallel and rigidly and attached to the tube at a distance
of about 2.5 cms from it
3. A weight the upper part of which forms the reading index the weight can be moved along
the rack by means of a million-head screw actuating a pinion on the rack.
The line of sight is defined by the line joining the centre of the eye hole to the intersection of
the cross-wires. The sighting tube and along with it the line of sight can be set to any desired
gradient by moving the weight along the rack to the required reading on the scale
Ceylon Ghat Tracer
Planimeter
A Planimeter is an instrument, which measures the area of plan of any shape very accurately.
There are two types of planimeters:
(1) Amsler polar Planimeter, and
(2) Roller Planimeter.

Planimeter
The polar Planimeter is most commonly used and is therefore discussed here. It consists of
two arms hinged at a point known as the pivot point. One of the two arms carries an anchor at
its end, and is known as the anchor arm. The length of anchor arm is generally fixed, but in
some of the planimeters, a variable length of anchor arm is also provided. The other aim
carries the tracing point at its end, and is known as the tracing arm. 1 ho length of the tracing
arm can be varied by the means of a fixed screw and a corresponding slow motion screw. The
tracing point is moved along the boundary of the plan the area of which is to be determined.
The normal displacement of the tracing arm is measured by the means of a wheelhouse axis is
kept parallel to the tracing arm. The wheel may either be placed between the hinge and the
tracing point or is placed beyond the pivot point away from the tracing point. The wheel
carries a concentric drum, which is divided into 100 divisions small vernier attached near the
drum, reads one-tenth of the drum division. The complete revolutions of the wheel are read
on the disc actuated by a suitable gearing to the wheel. Thus, each is reading is of four digits-
the units being read on the disc, the tenths and hundreds on the drum, and the thousands on
the venire. In addition to this, a fixed index near the disc can be utilized to know the number
of the times the zero of the disc has crossed the index. It is clear that the planimeter rests on
three points-the wheel, the anchor point and the tracing point. Out of these three, the anchor
point remains fixed in position while the wheel partly rolls and partly slides as the tracing
point is moved along the boundary. Since the plane of the wheel is perpendicular to the plane
of the centerline of the tracing arm, the wheel measures only the 'normal displacement- when
it actually rolls. To find the area of the plan, the anchor point is either placed outside the area
(if the area is small) or it is placed inside the area (if the area is large). A point is then marked

on the boundary of area and the tracing point is kept exactly over it. The initial reading of the
wheel is then taken. The tracing point is now moved clockwise along the boundary till it
comes to the starting point. The final reading of the drum is taken.
The area of the Figure is then calculated from the following formula:
AREA () = m (FR – IR ±10 N + C).
Where FR = Final reading.
IR = Initial reading
N = the number of times the zero mark of the dial passes the fixed index Mark. Use + sign if
the zero mark of the dial passes the index mark in a Clockwise direction and - sign when it
passes in anticlockwise direction.
M = A multiplying constant, also sometimes known as the planimeter constant. It is equal to
the area per revolution of the roller.
C = constant of the instrument which when multiplied by M, gives the area of zero circle. The
constant C is to be added only when the anchor point is inside the area. It is to be noted that,
the tracing point is to be moved in the clockwise direction only. Proper sign must be given to
N.
Viva questions
1. What is the use of Ceylon Ghat Tracer?
2. How to measure area using planimeter.
Course Outcome
Demonstration of Minor instruments
Further Reading
1. http://www.benmeadows.com/refinfo/techfacts/planimeters-features-use-1350.htm
2. https://mysite.du.edu/~jcalvert/astro/abney.htm

Least count of instruments used in survey practice lab

Name of Instrument L.C (With Units) Remarks
/Apparatus
Total Station 1sec Angular The most advanced instrument in the lab set-up.
1mm linear Pentax and South make instruments available.
Theodolite 20 sec and 10 sec The lab has both instruments, Transit theodolite
Prismatic Compass 30 sec Instrument used to measure the bearing
Levelling staff 5mm The apparatus is used in levelling operations
Metric chain 20cm Each link in the chain is of 20cm length
Ranging rod 20cm Each band of red and white color is of 20cm length

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SURVEYING PRACTICE 18CVL57

Units & Measurements

Department of Civil Engineering, ATMECE, Mysuru

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Signs or Symbols for Revelations of the above Surface Features

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Symbol Description Symbol Description

Village (open) Telephone Line

Church Electric Power Line

Idgah Metalled Road

Burial-Ground National Highway

Boundary pillar UN-Metalled Road

Aerodrome Level Crossing

Foot Path with Bridge,

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EQUIPMENTS USED IN SURVEY LABORATORY

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Arrow Ranging Rod Cross Staff

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Plane Table with Accessories Alidade

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Plumbing Fork Trough Compass

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GENERAL TERMINOLOGIES USED IN SURVEY PRACTICE

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Exercise: 1(a) MEASUREMENT OF DISTANCE

Objective: Measurement of distance along horizontal plane

a) Distance between A and B by Chaining =

Line AD DC CE EB Total Distance

Objective: To measure the distance between two points on a sloping ground.

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The total distance = D1+D2+D3+….

The distance between the two given points ____________

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Exercise: 1(a) MEASUREMENT OF DISTANCE

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4) PQ = (PB2 + QB2 – 2PBQB*Cos δ) ½ =