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Theodolites & Survey Transits

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Survey Theodolites & Transit Levels from Bench Mark

Only the Best Quality Survey Instruments

Survey transit theodolites typically feature a durable, three-screw leveling base that mounts securely onto your survey tripod, creating a stable and adjustable platform for accurate construction layout and surveying. The theodolite’s body has two key assemblies:
  • Alidade (upper assembly): Includes the standards, telescope, digital display, plate bubbles, compass, and upper tangent screw.
  • Circle assembly: Contains the horizontal circle (protected by the alidade plate) and the upper clamp screw, working together to provide highly precise angular measurements in the field.
At Bench Mark, every theodolite and transit level includes a minimum one-year warranty. We also professionally calibrate each instrument before sale, ensuring compliance with industry standards and ready-to-use accuracy. Shop our wide selection of GeoMeasure and GeoMax digital theodolites and transit levels today.

FAQs

Theodolites, or survey transits, are affordable, reliable instruments used for construction layout and surveying. They precisely measure horizontal and vertical angles and can also:

  • Establish straight lines
  • Measure horizontal and vertical distances using stadia
  • Determine elevations when used as a leveling instrument

The terms are often used interchangeably, but technically, a theodolite is the more advanced instrument. It can measure both horizontal and vertical angles precisely, while an older transit typically measures only horizontal angles and requires manual leveling. Digital theodolites enhance traditional designs with electronic displays and automated functions for improved precision.

Yes, transits are still used, particularly for training, smaller construction projects, and situations where digital instruments aren’t required. However, most modern professionals have transitioned to digital theodolites and total stations, which offer faster setup, electronic data capture, and improved accuracy.

Modern digital theodolites deliver angular accuracy ranging from 2 to 5 seconds, depending on the model. This makes them ideal for both construction layout and precise alignment tasks. Regular calibration ensures consistent performance in field conditions.

Digital theodolites provide the highest accuracy by minimizing human reading errors and automating angle measurements. Models with dual-axis compensation and fine angular resolution offer superior precision, making them the preferred choice for engineering and professional surveying projects.

Leading manufacturers like GeoMax and GeoMeasure are known for building reliable, high-precision digital theodolites. These brands offer models designed for construction and surveying applications, combining optical quality, rugged design, and dependable performance in harsh environments.

Bench Mark is your trusted source for GeoMeasure and GeoMax theodolites (also known as survey transits). We offer a variety of models suited to your specific needs. Based in Calgary, Canada, we proudly serve clients throughout British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan with reliable theodolites and transit levels.

Using a Digital Survey Theodolite

We can help

We make it simple to get started:
  1. Set up the transit level over a known point using the optical plummet on the underside.
  2. Back-sight by focusing the telescope and crosshairs on a reference point (typically a target pole at least 150 feet away).
  3. Zero the instrument by pressing the set-zero button.
  4. Measure horizontal or vertical angles using the digital display.
  5. Store safely, making sure the theodolite is dry before closing its case.
At Bench Mark, we back every instrument with expert support. If you run into issues, our team can often resolve them with just a quick five-minute phone call.
Surveyor Using Theodolite to Measure Land

Canada’s Best-Selling Survey Transit Theodolite

GeoMeasure SDJ-02

Designed for precision and long-term durability, the GeoMeasure SDJ-02 delivers reliable performance for professional surveying and construction applications. This model features a single horizontal spindle with a cross telescope for enhanced stability and shock resistance. Its absolute angular encoder allows direct angle readings without passing zero, improving speed and accuracy in the field.

The large, backlit, double-sided LCD displays both horizontal and vertical angles simultaneously, ensuring clear visibility in all lighting conditions. With its rugged construction and dependable performance, the GeoMeasure SDJ-02 is a practical choice for angle measurement, layout work, and general field surveying.

Explore our selection of surveying instruments, including transit theodolites, GNSS receivers, and complete field solutions online today.

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