INTRODUCTION

Radial surveying is a term used to describe the practice of measuring an

angle and distance from a known point to tie in another point (determine
coordinates for its location) or for setting out a point at a predetermined location.
Radial surveying methods can be accomplished using various equipment
combinations, but they are ideally suited for the modern total station instrument
connected with a data collector. Radial surveying techniques are also suited for the
one-person crew using a robotic total station. Each point is identified by number in
the data file, and instructions are given to the instrument in terms of commands,
point numbers, and, in some cases, attributes. If collecting data for a topographic
site plan, the point numbers may be assigned sequentially by default. In the layout
mode, the operator specifies the points to be used or staked in any order desired. In
either case (collecting data or laying out points), both the point occupied by the
instrument and the backsight point must be specified by the user. (FIGURE 1.)

FIGURE 1. Radial Surveying