Differences between total station and theodolite

          Differences between total station and theodolite.

In this article, I discussed some major differences between Total Station and theodolite in detail.

	Total Station	Theodolite
Function	A total station is a sophisticated surveying tool that combines an electronic theodolite with an electronic distance metre (EDM) to measure angles and distances. It combines measurements of both angles and distance in a single instrument. Added functions like data processing, electronic data transfer, and data storage are frequently seen in total stations.	An optical tool called a theodolite is primarily used to measure horizontal and vertical angles. For accurate angle measurements in both the horizontal and vertical planes, it typically comprises of a telescope mounted on a tripod. Theodolites are incapable of determining distance internally.
Angle measurement	Using electronic sensors, total stations provide extremely accurate and exact angle readings. In order to measure angles digitally without manual reading or interpolation, they frequently use electronic encoders.	Theodolites measure angles using optical devices that include graded circles and verniers. The surveyor manually records and interprets the measurements after visually aligning the telescope's crosshairs with the target points.
Distance measurement	Total Stations have an Electronic Distance Measurement (EDM) device that measures target point distances using laser or infrared technology. This makes it possible to measure distances accurately and quickly without the use of additional measuring tools.	Theodolites lack an integrated ability to measure distance. The theodolite must be used in conjunction with other tools, such as tape measures or laser rangefinders, to measure distances.
Data Processing and Storage	Surveyors can capture and store coordinate, distance, and angle data directly inside a total station thanks to the device's inbuilt data storage capabilities, which are common. Additional software for fundamental data processing and calculations may be included in some models.	The storage or processing of data is often not integrated into theodolites. The theodolite's angle measurements are manually recorded and then analysed with the aid of additional hardware or software.
Applications:	Topographic surveys, boundary surveys, building plan, and as-built measurements are just a few of the surveying and construction tasks that total stations are frequently employed for. They are incredibly adaptable tools with extensive data collection and analysis capabilities.	Theodolites are frequently employed in surveying, engineering, and building for purposes like establishing control points, calculating alignment angles, and tracking angular movements. When exact angle measurements are essential but separate distance measurements are not necessary, they are frequently used.

In conclusion, Total Stations combine the features of an electronic theodolite and an EDM to provide accurate angle and distance measurements as well as data storage and processing capabilities. On the other hand, theodolites are optical instruments that are employed primarily for precise angle measurements and call for separate apparatus for measuring distance. The exact requirements of the current surveying or building task will determine whether Total Station or Theodolite should be used.