Advancing Technology in Electronic Surveying

As predicted by the inventor, the changes in electronic distance measurement equipment have happened fast and dramatically. The use of higher frequencies with resulting narrower beamwidths and higher resolutions concurred with the advances in electronics in the ensuing decade. In the paper the performance capabilities of the earlier microwave instruments in the X and S band categories are analyzed and equations applied. The values of refractive indexes and the accuracy limiting factors are also covered. Equipment comparison tables show the range and accuracies of available instruments. The more modern high accuracy devices and the improved techniques required for full capitalization on their capabilities are reviewed. Future trends are outlined as they are predicated on the charging needs of the involved professions.