Best theodolites and optical rangefinders for 2020

There are dozens of auxiliary equipment in construction that can create the most accurate measurements. But, despite this, a special product is used to carry out horizontal and vertical measurements, which has proven itself over the centuries. The only difference between past models and modern ones is the presence of many auxiliary functions to ensure maximum accuracy.

The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for you a rating of the best theodolites and optical rangefinders for 2020.

Purpose and description of the device

Building construction is not just a process where one person gets excited about an idea and pays builders to bring it to life. There are a number of nuances between these actions. The main thing is to measure the terrain; surveyors are engaged in this. They bring special equipment with them and study all the features of the landscape, road construction, etc. Based on the information received, the optimal material for construction is selected.

An optical meter (theodolite) is a professional high-precision instrument capable of making any measurements, regardless of the terrain.

The device is capable of surveying at any angle and on any surface, which makes it an indispensable tool in the construction of facilities. In addition, the device is capable of determining the distance from point A to point B with maximum accuracy. Most often, the result is superior even to laser rangefinders.

The benefits of this tool have been proven for centuries. The first prototypes of such a device appeared in ancient Greece and Rome. The equipment can be used not only on land but also in navigation or railway construction. Even polar explorers use this device for professional measurements.

Today there are hundreds of models on the market that are much more advanced than their predecessors in terms of technical and price points. You can find a product with a small margin of error, but a minimal price, as well as with absolute accuracy, but also a premium value.

What does it consist of?

The design of any such device has hardly changed. The only thing is that the parts have become more perfect, and some parts have undergone modernization, since it was necessary to create additional capabilities. The general structure of the theodolite looks like this:

• A tripod with three adjustable legs and a stand;
• To monitor the correct level, a cylindrical element is used, which indicates to the user where to direct the product so that the readings do not have errors;
• To level the instrument, three lifting parts are often used to enable the instrument to be positioned correctly;
• Alidadu is an adjustable upper element that restrains visual performance as well as a reading device;
• Two guide and fixing screws;
• Two circles (limbs) with corner markings. Also included are fasteners;
• Sight tube, which is fixed and controlled with special screws.In addition, there is a lens, it allows you to adjust the clarity of the image;
• Lenses that fit into the eyepiece. They have special markings that simplify measurements at times. There is also a special sensor;
• A rack is used to focus the picture;
• Special supports;
• Optical microscope.

These are the main elements that are most often found in modern models. However, some instruments may not have an optical sight or screws, as a camera or laser pointer is installed instead. Also, devices can have a display with a keyboard, which simplifies the setup at times.

Varieties

In 2020, there are dozens of measuring instruments that differ in many elements. The main differences of each device occur according to GOST 10529-96. Based on the indicators presented in this document, a person will quickly find a suitable device.

Difference in accuracy

Focusing on this parameter, the buyer will be able to both purchase a high-quality device and save several thousand, but sacrifice accuracy. There are three categories in total:

• Products with high precision. Such devices have a small error of 2 arc seconds;
• Exact. The error of such structures is several times greater and amounts to 10 angular seconds;
• Technical. This option is often in demand in small companies. Its limit is 40-60 arc seconds.

Scope of application

In addition to accuracy, products differ in the area of ​​use:

• Mine surveying - medium precision devices that have a wide range of vertical settings. The main design difference lies in the presence of built-in lighting for the reporting element, and there is also an additional compensator that protects the case from an explosion. The equipment is used on any surface and can also be used underground.
• Geodetic. These models are used in construction, as well as land and structural measurements. The device has a high percentage of accuracy.
• Astronomical. These are the very first models that appeared in the past centuries. Intended for sailors and astronauts, so that you can get more accurate information about the location of the ship relative to the earth's surface. In addition, instruments are widely used by cartographers.

The nature of the host

The carrier plays an important role in theodolite. He can be:

• Mechanical - the very first devices in which the limb was made of metal. All measurements were carried out manually, there were no auxiliary eyepieces. For accuracy, magnifiers with a special ruler or scale were used.
• Optical - classic models that have a glass ring-shaped dial. The entire counting is carried out thanks to a micrometer as well as a microscope.
• Electronic is a modern product. Theodolite is characterized by high measurement accuracy, which allows it to be used in any field. The main feature of the product is easy customization. In addition, all subtractions are made thanks to the microprocessor, and the readings are shown on the display, which keeps errors to a minimum.

Also, the accuracy of the product is influenced by the materials from which the equipment is made.

Rating of quality laser rangefinders

RGK T-02

High-quality laser equipment designed for accurate measurements. It is sold at a low price, which makes it a popular device for most companies. When designing this product, the manufacturer decided to abandon some auxiliary functions that may affect the final cost.

This product focuses only on quality and measurement accuracy. The angular value is only 2 seconds, which makes the device in demand for most areas: from geodesy to the construction of residential buildings. A high-quality LCD is used to display the screen, a keyboard and a backlight are also provided, which will simplify night shooting.

The device is capable of operating at temperatures from -20 degrees.There is also a 30x magnification. Power is supplied from the built-in battery. The battery life reaches 36 hours, which is a positive result for such equipment.

The average price is 95,000 rubles.

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GeoMax Zipp02

A more expensive model designed to solve a variety of geodetic problems. However, the device is more popular when it is necessary to carry out the removal of corners, axes, and also transfer the mark. For convenience, there is a monochrome display with backlight, as well as a vertical angle compensator. The tool is popular in all areas of construction.

The angular accuracy is the same as the previous model and is 2 sec. All measurements are automatically displayed on the display, which simplifies the operation of the device at times. The magnification is standard and is 30x, the minimum measurement distance is 1.3 meters. Protection class - IP54. A rechargeable battery is included.

The average price is 112,000 rubles.

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CONDTROL iTeo5

Low-cost, but high-quality equipment, which is designed to determine the distance, angles and other parameters. The product has a low price and good workmanship. For convenient operation, the device is equipped with two displays that show all current readings. In addition, the equipment has a built-in compensator.

The lens diameter is 45 mm. Accuracy - 5 arc seconds is a good indicator given the low cost of the product. The battery capacity is 1500 mAh, which is enough for 24 hours of operation. Product weight - 4.8 kg.

The average price is 60,000 rubles.

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ADA DigiTeo 5

A product from a renowned manufacturer that makes a measurement based on an incremental code dial. The product has a wide display that shows all the main information. The angular accuracy of the instrument is 5 ”. There is a convenient OSET option, thanks to which the readings are reset to "zero", which is convenient for frequent work with the device.

The case is made of high quality, has a protection class - IP66, which allows the theodolite to be used when taking measurements in winter, in rain or in strong winds. Not a drop of moisture or dust particles can penetrate into the equipment.

It is sold at a price of 70,000 rubles.

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Rating of the best optical models

UOMZ 4T30P

A reliable device that was produced by a Russian manufacturer and gained great popularity in the market of measuring instruments. The housing is made of robust materials that can withstand extreme loads without affecting the measured values. The device is used in various fields: from construction to forestry. Due to its low weight and dimensions, the product is easy to transport.

Maximum accuracy is 30 arc seconds when measuring vertical angles. The maximum measurement range is 40 meters. The optics are proprietary and provide the user with good visibility even in dark lighting.

The average price is 56,700 rubles.

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ADA Prof X15

A quality measuring device that is produced by a popular company. The product has a good body and excellent technical characteristics. The accuracy of the equipment is 15 seconds, so the accuracy here is at an average level.However, this does not prevent the device from providing a person with good work in almost any conditions.

The product is used by both builders and cartographers. The scope of its application is practically unlimited. Magnification - 28x. The image is straight. The lens diameter is 40 mm. The mass of the device is 3 kg.

Sold at a price of 36,000 rubles.

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RGK TO-15

A technical device with good accuracy. Suitable for various measurements under different conditions. The case is made of shock-resistant materials that will prevent accidental breakage if dropped.

The equipment has excellent optics, which is able to enlarge the image up to 28 times. At the same time, the minimum distance for taking measurements is 2 meters, which is also an excellent result.

The average price is 60,000 rubles.

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Foif J2-2

A high-precision optical-mechanical device used in many fields. The maximum magnification is 30x. The measurement accuracy of horizontal and vertical angles is 2 and 6 seconds, respectively, which makes the device one of the best in its price segment. The maximum weight of a theodolite is 6 kg, but the device is sold with a case, so this weight increases to 9 kg.

Average price: from 40,000 rubles.

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Top best electronic models

CST / Berger DGT10

A reliable electronic theodolite that can handle almost any measurement in a short amount of time. For convenience, the product is equipped with an electronic display that displays all information about current measurements. In addition, the device has a built-in optical rangefinder, which ensures the best quality.

Thanks to such a device, work will become many times more efficient. For convenience, the latest results are stored in internal memory.

The average price is 59,990 rubles.

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Spectra Precision DET-2

Professional device with high accuracy (up to 2 arc seconds). The device has many useful features that will simplify your daily measurements and make your work more productive. Each value is displayed on the built-in monochrome display. The keyboard is used for control. The equipment can be operated under any lighting conditions; this will not affect the quality of measurements.

Sold at a price of 90,000 rubles.

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VEGA TEO-5B

An excellent device that will provide the user with the most accurate measurement in a short period of time. There is a two-sided display, which will simplify work several times. The instrument is accurate to 5 arc seconds. The battery is rechargeable. The battery life reaches 80 hours. The set includes a built-in block for AA batteries.

The average cost is 85,500 rubles.

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Finally

Theodolite is able to simplify measurements several times, but it is important to handle it correctly so that the error is minimal. If you have experience using the models presented in the rating, or more interesting models, tell us about it in the comments.