Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Elevations Using Back-Sight on a Total Station

How to set up Topcon total station for leveling work only 

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on using the back-sight method with a Total Station to set up elevations without needing to apply a resection coordinate system. This approach will help you obtain level data and marking levels.

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Step 1: Initial Setup

1. Power On the Total Station: Start by turning on the Total Station. Make sure the battery is fully charged for uninterrupted work.
2. Select Job or Create New One: If your Total Station allows for different "jobs," choose the relevant job or create a new one for today’s measurements.
3. Enter the Menu: Use the menu button to access the Total Station’s main functions.

Step 2: Accessing Back-Sight and Orientation Settings

1. Choose Orientation Settings: In the menu, select the orientation option to start setting up the back-sight.
2. Select Back-Sight Option: Within orientation, locate the back-sight function. This function lets you set a known point that the Total Station can reference for all other measurements.

Step 3: Setting the Back-Sight Point

1. Choose Reception Mode: Inside the back-sight settings, go to reception mode. Reception mode lets you use reference points to determine the back-sight position.
2. Select Elevation Requirement: Set the elevation setting to ensure you’re measuring levels accurately. This is essential if you’re only interested in getting elevation data.

Step 4: Targeting and Adjusting the Instrument

1. Position the Instrument at the Target Point: Physically aim the Total Station at the target location where you want to set the back-sight.
2. Set Target Height: Enter the target height based on the actual height of your setup. For example, you might input 0 if you’re measuring from ground level.
3. Confirm Values: Press Yes or Enter to confirm the height value. The device will use this height as the reference for all other points.

Step 5: Checking Back-Sight and Orientation Data

1. Return to Reception and Confirm Readings: In the reception section, check that the elevation reading reflects your desired setup.
2. Observe Calibration Value: The Total Station should display a calibration or orientation value, such as 6.1. This value helps you ensure that the instrument is correctly oriented.
3. Adjust If Necessary: If there’s an error message (e.g., "bad condition"), recheck your setup, adjust the instrument, and confirm again until the calibration is stable.

Step 6: Verifying with a Known Point

1. Re-enter Coordinator and Observation: To confirm your setup, return to the coordinator and observation sections in the menu.
2. Set Observation Point: Use a known point for observation to verify that the calibration and orientation match expected values. This will confirm that your setup is accurate.

Step 7: Final Confirmation

1. Review Elevation and Calibration: Check the calibration and orientation values one last time to confirm consistency.
2. Complete the Setup: Once all values match up correctly, you’re ready to start taking measurements.

Conclusion

• Save Settings: Ensure your settings and calibration are saved for future use.
• Shutdown or Proceed with Measurements: If you’re finished, shut down the device. If you need more measurements, proceed to collect data at different points.

Closing Notes

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