EDM

calibration
handbook

Edition 9
January 2007
This page is intentionally left blank.
Geodetic Survey
Office of the Surveyor General Victoria
Land Victoria
Department Of Sustainability and Environment

EDM Calibration Handbook

Edition 9
January 2007

ISBN 1 74106 023 0

Copyright © The State of Victoria, Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2006.

Disclaimer

This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that
the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore
disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any
information in this publication.

Handbook Errors and Discrepancies

Land Victoria would appreciate notification of any errors or discrepancies found in this Handbook.
Please direct any correspondence to:

Calibration Manager
Office of the Surveyor General Victoria
Land Victoria
Level 17
Marland House
570 Bourke Street
Melbourne Victoria 3000

Fax: (03) 8636 2588

Find more information about DSE on the Internet at http://www.dse.vic.gov.au

EDM Handbook v9.0.doc Date: January 2007 i

 Preface

"In relation to measurement, the professional Surveyor is intent not only on getting it right, but in proving that it
is. To achieve this, Surveyors rely on their measuring equipment which must be systematically tested for errors
and compared to the national standard."
John E Tulloch
Surveyor General of Victoria

The Surveyor General of Victoria sets standards for property surveys under the Surveying (Cadastral Surveys)
Regulations 2005, including requirements for the calibration and standardisation of survey equipment. To
assist Licensed Surveyors in meeting these standards, the Surveyor General is responsible for issuing practical
implementation advice and providing certified calibration facilities.

The Surveyor General’s Practice Directives, January 2007 addresses the requirements regarding calibration of
Electro-optical Distance Meter (EDM) instruments. It states that EDM instruments must be calibrated over a
certified baseline at intervals not exceeding twelve months or more frequently if conditions warrant it. It also
states that a Licensed Surveyors Report must detail calibration information about the EDM used in the survey
including: Make and Model; Serial Number; EDM Calibration Site; Date of Calibration.

This EDM Calibration Handbook provides the specification and practice direction for achieving EDM calibration
at each of the five baselines across the state. The Surveyor General is a Verifying Authority for length (up to
1160metres) and is responsible for the annual re-certification of the base lines as subsidiary standards of
length.

The Surveyor General, through the Geodetic Survey, provides the continued certification of the baselines and
the periodic updates of the Handbook, and acknowledgement is also made of the assistance of Land Victoria
staff throughout the state.

The Surveyor General acknowledges the co-operation and support provided by the Department of Transport
Energy and Infrastructure South Australia in providing the use of their equipment for the re-verification of the
baselines.

The Surveyor General is grateful also to Brayley & Hayes Pty. Ltd. and Earth Tech Engineering Pty Ltd for their
continued assistance with the Hamilton and Loy Yang EDM baselines, respectively.

John E Tulloch
Surveyor General of Victoria
January 2007

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 Table of Contents

PREFACE .............................................................................................................................................................................II

TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................................................... III

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................................1

CHAPTER 2: LEGAL TRACEABILITY OF LENGTH MEASUREMENTS..................................................................2

2.9 SURVEY PRACTICE DIRECTIVE - SEPTEMBER 2006 ...............................................................................................3
2.10 SURVEYING (CADASTRAL SURVEYS) REGULATIONS 2005.....................................................................................3
2.11 SURVEY CO-ORDINATION REGULATIONS 2004.......................................................................................................4
CHAPTER 3: THE THEORY OF EDM CALIBRATION..................................................................................................5
3.3 INSTRUMENT ERRORS .............................................................................................................................................5
3.4 BASELINE DESIGN ....................................................................................................................................................6
3.5 PILLARS AND GROUND MARKS ................................................................................................................................6
CHAPTER 4: RECOMMENDED OBSERVING PROCEDURES ..................................................................................8
4.3 GENERAL PROCEDURES ..........................................................................................................................................8
4.4 MEASUREMENT SEQUENCE (EXCLUDING THE BENDIGO BASELINE) ......................................................................9
4.5 MEASUREMENT SEQUENCE - BENDIGO BASELINE ONLY......................................................................................10
4.6 LOY YANG BASELINE……………………………………………………………………………………………...10
LOCATION OF BASE LINES .................................................................................................................................................11
UNIT LENGTHS OF EDM ..............................................................................................................................................17
CHAPTER 5: REDUCTION AND INTERPRETATION.................................................................................................21

REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................................................................22

APPENDIX A – SAMPLE BOOKING SHEETS .............................................................................................................23

EDM Handbook v9.0.doc Date: January 2007 iii

 Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1 This handbook deals with the calibration and standardisation of Electro-optical Distance Meters (EDM)
in the State of Victoria.

1.2 There are five baselines in Victoria that are maintained as subsidiary standards of length and as such
are suitable for the calibration and standardisation of EDM. The baselines are of Sprent/Zwart (Hobart)
design with the exception of the Bendigo baseline, which is a modified Schwendener design.

1.3 Calibration of EDM is concerned with the determination of instrument errors, whereas standardisation
refers to the comparison of the instrument to a standard of length traceable to the National Standard.
Instruments must be calibrated within a prescribed level of precision in order to be standardised.
Chapter 2 discusses the legal background of standardisation.

1.4 The theory of EDM calibration is summarised in Chapter 3 along with an explanation of the instrument
errors that are determined.

1.5 The observing procedures outlined in Chapter 4 are based on the "Instructions on the Verification of
Electro-optical Short-Range Distance Meters on Subsidiary Standards of Length in the Form of EDM
Calibration Baselines" proposed by Dr. J.M. Rueger (1984).

1.6 EDM users who wish to perform calibrations need to book the use of baselines in advance. Chapter 4
lists the baselines and the offices that can be contacted to make bookings and obtain further
information.

1.7 The program Baseline is described in Chapter 5. Hitherto the reduction software provided by the
Surveyor General has been EDMInput. From 1 January 2007 this software will no longer be maintained
and will be replaced by Baseline. Baseline has been developed by the Department of Land Information
(DLI) Western Australia and has been adopted by the Surveyor General of Victoria as fully addressing
the requirements of the ISO Guide to the Uncertainty of Measurement. Baseline produces several
reports for analysing an EDM instrument calibration and for analysing a calibration of a baseline. A
certificate which summarises the results of an EDM instrument calibration is also produced.

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 Chapter 2: Legal Traceability of Length Measurements

2.1 A Surveyor's field tape measurements can be traced to the national standard of length. The Surveyor
General maintains a standard tape that is regularly compared with the national standard for length.
Surveyors compare their standard office tape against the standard tape that is maintained by the
Surveyor General. The Surveyor’s field tape can be compared against their standardised office tape on
a regular basis.

2.2 In accordance with Regulation 73 of the National Measurement Regulations 1999, the Surveyor
General of Victoria is appointed as a Verifying Authority with respect to length. This enables
certification of subsidiary standards of length to a certain precision pursuant to Regulation 13 of the
National Measurement Regulations 1999.

2.3 Although not common, the validity of length measurement may be challenged in a court of law. The
validity will be strengthened if traceability to the national standard can be proved.

2.4 In 1983 the National Standards Commission (NSC), now incorporated into the National Measurement
Institute (NMI), formed a working party on the “Calibration of Electromagnetic Distance Measuring
(EDM) Equipment”. Following both the recommendations of this working party and research by the
NSC, it was established that monumented baselines could be certified as subsidiary standards of
length under Regulation 13 of the National Measurement Regulations 1999 to provide legal traceability
for EDM measurements.

2.5 The standard of length was transferred to baselines through use of standard tapes or EDM as
prescribed by the National Standards Commission. The Kern Mekometer and the Comrad Geomensor
were the only EDM prescribed by the NSC. These instruments needed to be compared with the
national frequency standard and certified as reference standards prior to their use for baseline
certification.

2.6 The Kern Mekometer ME3000 owned by Melbourne Water/WBCM Surveys Pty Ltd has been used to
certify the Victorian baselines in the past. When this instrument ceased operating in 1994, the Kern
Mekometer ME5000 owned by Hydro Tasmania was used for this purpose. Recently, in 2006, the
Leica TCA2003 total station owned by the Department of Transport Energy and Infrastructure South
Australia and certified by NMI was used to re-verify the five EDM baselines. This class of instruments
is expected to be used in the near-medium future.

2.7 An EDM is considered to measure distances traceable to the national standard of length if:

(a) it is calibrated on a certified baseline,

(b) it is calibrated in accordance with the procedures laid down herein,
(c) the current inter-pillar distances (as determined from re-verification measurements) are used to
compute the calibration and
(d) the Instrument Correction has been computed to a prescribed level of precision.

2.8 Recommendations of specific interest from the NSC working party referred to in 2.4 and 2.7 above are:-

No.2 To be certified as a subsidiary standard a baseline must be capable of being calibrated with an
uncertainty of ± (1.5 + 20 × 10-3 × L) mm at the 95% level of confidence where L is the interval
length in metres.

No.8 It is recommended that, in general, the minimum standard for the uncertainty of calibration of an
EDM, assuming calibration against a monumented base, should be ± (5 + 30 × 10-3 × L) mm
at the 95% level of confidence where L is the interval length in metres.

Five Victorian baselines are certified annually in accordance with Recommendation No.2.
The calibration procedures outlined in this handbook and the analysis techniques contained in Baseline
are capable of meeting the requirement of Recommendation No.8.

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2.9 Survey Practice Directive - September 2006

The Surveyor General sets standards for surveying title boundaries through the Surveying Act 2004,
Surveying (Cadastral Surveys) Regulations 2005, and standards of measurement under the Survey
Co-ordination Regulations 2004.

These standards include calibration and standardisation of survey equipment, record keeping and
reporting, specifications for units of measurement and levels of precision achievable.

The Surveyor General issues practice directives to aid Licensed Surveyors in the interpretation of
Regulations and inform them of changes to the requirements of either the Surveyors Registration Board
of Victoria and/or the Surveyor General.

The Surveyor General’s Practice Directives, January 2007, address the Surveyor General’s
requirements regarding calibration of Electro-optical Distance Meter (EDM) instruments.

The Surveyor General has determined that an adequate survey equipment comparison process
requires the calibration of EDM surveying instruments over a baseline certified by the Surveyor
General at intervals not exceeding twelve months.

Where adverse conditions of use warrant it, more frequent EDM calibration may be required, including
after every repair to all or part of such equipment.

Where an EDM surveying instrument is used in a cadastral survey, the Surveyor General requires the
following information to be included in the Surveyor's Report:
Make and model of instrument
Serial Number
EDM Calibration Site
Date of Calibration

The Surveyor General has determined that survey plans signed after the 31st January 2002 must
comply with these requirements in relation to EDM survey instrument calibration.

Note that complete copies of the Practice Directive are available from:

Deputy Surveyor General

Office of the Surveyor General Victoria
Level 17
Marland House
570 Bourke Street
Melbourne Vic 3000

Telephone (03) 8636 2525

Or by visiting the Land Channel website: http://www.land.vic.gov.au/surveying

2.10 Surveying (Cadastral Surveys) Regulations 2005

Regulation 6(1)(a)&(b) requires a Licensed Surveyor to use survey equipment which has been
compared to a standard of measurement and that the process of comparison and the basis of
comparison are adequate to obtain the accuracy required under the Surveying (Cadastral Surveys)
Regulations 2005.

Regulation 6(2) requires Licensed Surveyors to retain records of comparisons and make them available
for inspection upon request by the Surveyor General.

Regulation 15(2)(b) stipulates that a Licensed Surveyor’s Report must provide details on the date of
calibration of measuring equipment used in the cadastral survey.

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2.11 Survey Co-ordination Regulations 2004

Regulation 13 of the Survey Co-ordination Regulations 2004 requires Surveyors to use and maintain
survey equipment that has been compared to a standard of measurement. The units of measurement
are specified in Regulation 13(a)(i) and levels of precision to be achieved are set out in Regulation
13(b).

2.12 It is considered that the requirements of the Surveying (Cadastral Surveys) Regulations 2005 and the
Survey Co-ordination Regulations 2004 are satisfied for EDM if points (a) to (d) in section 2.7 are
performed.

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Chapter 3: The Theory of EDM Calibration

3.1 EDM calibration is performed in order to determine the instrument errors. The instrument errors can be
used to monitor the performance of the EDM over time and if significant, should be applied to
measurements taken subsequent to the calibration.

3.2 If the calibration is performed over a certified baseline to a prescribed level of precision, the EDM is
considered to be standardised.

3.3 Instrument Errors

3.3.1 Additive Constant (correction for Zero or Index Error)

All distances measured by a particular EDM/reflector combination are subject to a constant error. It is
caused by three factors:

(a) electrical delays, geometric detours, and eccentricities in the EDM,

(b) differences between the electronic centre and the mechanical centre of the EDM,
(c) differences between the optical and mechanical centres of the reflector.

The additive constant or zero/index correction is added to measured distances to correct for these
differences.

Note that this error may vary with changes of reflector, after jolts, with different instrument mountings
and after service.

3.3.2 Scale Error

The scale error describes errors that are linearly proportional to the length of line measured. These can
arise from:

(a) variations in the modulation frequency of the EDM,

(b) non-homogeneous emission/reception patterns from the emitting and receiving diodes (phase
inhomogeneities),
(c) unmodelled variations in atmospheric conditions which affect the velocity of propagation,
(d) errors in the collection and use of atmospheric data. This includes the use of uncalibrated
thermometers/barometers, not taking atmospheric measurements in the shade and the incorrect
entry of the atmospheric correction into the EDM.

3.3.3 Cyclic Error (Short Periodic Error)

Cyclic error is a function of the internal phase measurement of an EDM. Error in the internal phase
measurement is caused by unwanted feed through the transmitted signal onto the received signal.

Cyclic error is usually sinusoidal in nature with a wavelength equal to the unit length of the EDM. The
unit length is the scale on which the EDM measures the distance, and is derived from the fine
measuring frequency. Unit length is equal to one half of the modulation wavelength of an EDM
(Rueger 1980).

As cyclic error repeats itself for every unit length contained within a measured distance, its sign and
magnitude varies depending on the length measured. The magnitude of the error could be in the order
of 5-10mm, however in modern EDM it is usually less than 2mm (negligible). Cyclic error can increase
in magnitude as the components of an EDM age.

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3.4 Baseline Design

3.4.1. EDM can be calibrated by measuring a combination of distances on a baseline. An important feature of
baseline design is to enable the determination of all instrument errors to an appropriate level of
precision. Three types of baselines are in use in Australia. The difference between their designs lies in
the associated methodology used to determine cyclic error, and the observation procedures applicable
to each one.

3.4.2. In general, calibration measurements over short distances assist in the determination of the additive
constant while longer distances help determine scale error. One objective of the design is to ensure
that the additive constant and scale error are determined independent of any cyclic error contributions.
However it is not possible to solve for a scale error unless the inter-pillar distances for the baseline are
known. Only prescribed EDM are used to determine these distances and hence control scale.

3.4.3. The certified baselines in Victoria are Sprent/Zwart (Hobart) baselines with the exception of the
Bendigo baseline, which is a Schwendener design. The Bendigo baseline has been modified to include
an additional pillar at a chainage of 5 metres. This enables the Sprent/Zwart method of calibration to
be employed at this baseline.

The original Sprent/Zwart design has been altered in Victoria by slightly changing the pillar locations so
that the additive constant is determined with greater precision. Nevertheless, calibrations using this
design are marginally less precise than other baseline designs. The great advantage of the
Sprent/Zwart method is its ease of use, and this unquestionably offsets the slightly lower precision.

3.4.4. The additive constant and scale error are able to be determined independent of cyclic error on
Sprent/Zwart baselines because their design has the effect of canceling out cyclic error. If pairs of
measurements are taken from pillars separated by half the unit length of the EDM, the cyclic error
affecting each pair will be equal in magnitude and opposite in sign. An analysis, which treats the
measurements as pairs, can eliminate the effect of cyclic error.

3.4.5. All but one of the certified baselines in Victoria have instrument pillars at chainages of 0m, 5m and
10m, enabling the Sprent/Zwart method of calibration to be used for EDM with unit lengths of 10 and 20
metres. The Bendigo baseline is the exception with instrument pillars at chainages of 0m and 5m,
making it suitable for EDM with a unit length of 10 metres.

A list of common EDM and their associated unit length is given at the end of Chapter 4. The list shows
that in addition to 10 and 20 metres, there are EDM with unit lengths of 2m, 3m, 5m, 30m and 33m.
Due to the difficulties with computing cyclic error a slightly different calibration procedure is
recommended for EDM with unit lengths other than 10 or 20 metres, details of which are given in
Chapter 4.

3.4.6. The procedures recommended in this handbook are designed to specifically meet the requirements of
legal surveys, and Rueger (1985) shows that the Sprent/Zwart method of taking measurements from 2
pillars separated by half the unit length is easily capable of satisfying Recommendation No. 8 of the
National Standards Commission (see 2.8).

Calibrations of a higher precision can be achieved by occupying all pillars and measuring all
combinations of distances on a baseline.

3.5 Pillars and Ground Marks

3.5.1. The baselines available for calibration and standardisation in Victoria have specially constructed pillars
for the stations. The reasons for this are that:

(a) forced centering is essential to eliminate setting-up errors,

(b) the speed and ease of the calibration procedure is enhanced,
(c) a precision EDM is able to be used to its full capacity and
(d) constant instrument heights are obtained.

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3.5.2. Calibration techniques assume that there is no pillar movement between the time when the baseline is
certified and when the user calibrates the EDM. Unfortunately pillars do demonstrate seasonal
movement, although in most cases the movement is too small to have any significant effect.

Baseline stability is closely monitored to ensure that calibrations can be performed to the required
precision. If it is suspected that pillar movement has occurred, it should be reported to the Geodetic
Survey section of Land Victoria for immediate action and resolution.

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 Chapter 4: Recommended Observing Procedures

4.1 The Surveyor-General as the verifying authority has the responsibility of having certain pillared
baselines measured by an EDM prescribed by the NMI. By this means, the Surveyor-General is able to
issue Regulation 13 certificates for these baselines, certifying them as subsidiary standards of length.

4.2 Each baseline is controlled by an office, which can be contacted to make bookings for its use and to
obtain information on access to the umbrella, pillar-cap key and standard thermometer and barometer
required for the calibration. Note that all baseline pillars are fitted with 5/8" BSW threads for mounting
purposes.

Baseline locations, access details and pillar layouts, together with addresses and telephone numbers of
the controlling offices, can be found later in this chapter.

4.3 General Procedures

The following procedures have been based on the proposals of Rueger (1984) and are to be followed
when calibrating EDM on Victorian baselines.

4.3.1 Booking Sheets

Calibration data may only be recorded on official sheets provided by Land Victoria. All details must be
recorded and booking sheets must be signed and dated. Measurements shall be recorded in units of
metres (distance), degrees Celsius (temperature) and millibars (pressure). Controlling offices may have
small quantities of booking sheets available, however it is preferred that baseline users have their own
copies for use. Sample booking sheets are included in Appendix A. In addition they may be
downloaded from
http://www.land.vic.gov.au and follow the links
Geodesy > Survey Equipment Calibration > EDM Calibration > Booking Sheets

4.3.2 Set Up and Shade

Initially set up the EDM on pillar 1. The instrument must be shaded by an umbrella at all times during
the calibration. At no time should it be put in its box, or left in the sun. It must be switched-on and
allowed to run, in the shade, for at least 15 minutes before measurements commence.

4.3.3 Atmospheric Correction

The atmospheric correction for the EDM must be set to zero (ppm) for all the calibration
measurements. This function is usually performed by either:

(a) an atmospheric correction knob/dial, or

(b) direct input using the EDM keypad, or
(c) entry of the temperature and pressure for which the EDM is standardised. In this case the
temperature and pressure corresponding to zero ppm should be entered, not the ambient
conditions of the calibration.

4.3.4 Operations

The measurements must be taken with the attenuator or aperture setting as prescribed by the
instrument manufacturer's instructions.

4.3.5 Power

If sufficient power is available, the EDM should be left switched-on for the whole calibration
(instruments with oven-controlled oscillators must remain switched on). All instruments must remain
switched on while the minimum number of measurements (four, refer to 4.3.11) are taken.

4.3.6 Height of Instrument

The height of the mounted EDM above the base of the tribrach (pillar plate) must be accurately
measured and recorded on the booking sheet. This should be done with the footscrews in mid setting.

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4.3.7 Reflector Mountings

The same reflector, reflector mounting and tribrach should be used for all measurements. The height
of the reflector must be measured and recorded in the same manner as for the EDM. The reflector must
have a unique identification (serial number) which must be entered on the booking sheet.

4.3.8 Levelling of Equipment

All equipment should be levelled with care and any spot bubbles used for this purpose must be
checked before the calibration.

4.3.9 Conditions

All calibration measurements must be taken either fully in day-time or fully in night-time. A mixture of
conditions is not acceptable. EDM that are typically used in day-time should be calibrated in day-time.

4.3.10 Meteorological Observations

Field thermometers and barometers must be compared with the baseline’s standard thermometer and
barometer both prior to and at the conclusion of the calibration measurements. There is provision on
the booking sheets to record the comparisons. The standard thermometer and barometer shall remain
in the controlling office at all times, and under no circumstances should they be used on the baseline.

Temperature and pressure must be measured in the shade at the instrument pillar. Temperature is
required to be measured at the height of the instrument whilst pressure can be measured at the base of
the pillar. These measurements are to be taken and recorded on the booking sheet (in the space
provided) every time the prism has moved.

4.3.11 Calibration Measurements

On each line, four separate distance measurements should be taken as a minimum, with re-pointing
after each measurement. Pointing can be optically or electronically performed as prescribed by the
manufacturers.

4.4 Measurement Sequence (Excluding the Bendigo Baseline)

The recommended measurement sequence is dependent on the unit length of the EDM being
calibrated. A list of EDM and their associated unit length is given at the end of this chapter.

4.4.1 EDM with a 10m unit length

1. Set up the EDM on pillar 1 and measure to pillars 4,5,6,7 and 8 in turn. If the baseline has
additional pillars located beyond pillar 8, they should be measured to also.

2. Move the EDM to pillar 2 and repeat the measurements taken above in the reverse order.

This sequence requires the reflector to be moved up and down the baseline only once.

1 → 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
2 → 8, 7, 6, 5, 4

4.4.2 EDM with unit lengths other than 10m

The Victorian baselines were designed and constructed at a time when the majority of EDM in use had
either 10m or 20m unit lengths. The baselines, in conjunction with the measurement sequences
described above, enable the satisfactory determination of errors for these EDM.

The modern trend in EDM however is smaller unit lengths, with 2m, 3m and 5m instruments becoming
more common. There are also EDM in use with unit lengths of 30 and 33 metres. As the baselines
were not designed to efficiently cater for the calibration of these EDM, a different measuring sequence
is required.

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 It is recommended for instruments with unit lengths other than 10m that additional measurements to the
normal sequence outlined above be taken. For example, measurements from pillars 1, 2 and 4 to the
other pillars can be observed. The Instrument Correction determined from these measurements would
still satisfy the requirement of the NMI.

1 → 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
2 → 8, 7, 6, 5, 4
4 → 5, 6, 7, 8

If a more precise determination of the Instrument Correction is required, then all combinations of
measurements on a baseline can be observed. For an 8 pillar baseline the sequence would be:

1 → 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
2 → 8, 7, 6, 5, 4
4 → 5, 6, 7, 8
5 → 8, 7, 6
6 → 7, 8
7→8

Generally, the precision of the computed Instrument Correction is increased as more measurements
are taken on a baseline.

4.5 Measurement Sequence - Bendigo Baseline Only

Refer to the list of EDM and their associated unit length at the end of this chapter.

4.5.1 EDM with a 10m unit length

1. Set up the EDM on pillar 1 and measure to pillars 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 in turn.

Completely ignore the old pillar at 20 metre chainage; pillar 3 is located approximately 60
metres from pillar 1.

2. Move the instrument to pillar 2 at chainage 5m and repeat the measurements taken above in the
reverse order.

1 → 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
2 → 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3

4.5.2 EDM with unit lengths other than 10m

It is recommended for these instruments that measurements in addition to those outlined above be
taken. As a minimum, measurements from pillar 3 to pillars 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 should also be observed.

1 → 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
2 → 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3
3 → 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

If the EDM is required to be calibrated to the highest precision possible on this baseline, then all
combinations of measurements should be observed. This involves occupying pillars 1 to 7 (inclusive)
with the instrument.

4.6 Loy Yang Baseline

Originally the Loy Yang baseline comprised of 10 pillars. However, due to the continuation of the
Hyland Highway (between pillars 9 and 10), pillar 10 is barely visible. As a result, pillar 10 has not been
included in the re-verification of the EDM baseline. When using the Loy Yang baseline, only the first 9
pillars are to be occupied.

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 Location of Base Lines

Baseline/Location Controlling Office Telephone

BENDIGO Land Victoria (03) 5430 4637

McDowells Road Survey Section
adjacent to Bendigo Dept. of Sustainability & Environment
Aerodrome 1 Taylor St
Epsom 3551

BRAESIDE Land Victoria (03) 8636 2546

Braeside Park Level 17, Marland House or
Lower Dandenong Road 570 Bourke Street (03) 8636 2550
Braeside Melbourne 3000
Melway 88 D10

The ancillary equipment for the Braeside baseline is available from the Rangers Office at
Braeside Park (key to cabinet available from office staff).

HAMILTON Brayley & Hayes Pty.Ltd. (03) 5571 9171

Balkans Road 85 Kennedy Street
2km west of Hamilton 3300
Fairburn Road

Brayley and Hayes P/L require bookings for the Hamilton Baseline to be made at least
two days prior to its use.

LOY YANG Earth Tech Engineering Pty Ltd (03) 5174 0066
Bartons Lane (now incorporating Fisher Stewart)
Loy Yang 18 Breed Street
Traralgon 3844

MITCHAM Land Victoria (03) 8636 2546

Menin Road Level 17, Marland House or
Mitcham 570 Bourke Street (03) 8636 2550
Melway 48 F12 Melbourne 3000

The ancillary equipment for the Mitcham Baseline is available from the
Front Desk
(03) 9296 - 4443
Port Phillip Regional Office
Department of Sustainability and Environment
30 Prospect Street
Box Hill 3128
Melway 47 B9

1. Bookings to use the baselines are to be made in advance.

2. Controlling Offices are open between 8.15am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.
3. Baselines are available for use on weekdays only.
4. Users are required to have their own copies of official booking sheets.
5. No rubbish is to be left behind. All gates must be left in their original position.
6. Pillar caps are to be re-fitted upon completion.
7. When using non-standard prisms, sighting difficulties may be experienced between pillars. The same
prism must be used for the observations to achieve a valid calibration.

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 UNIT LENGTHS OF EDM

Make Model Unit Length (m) Make Model Unit Length (m)

Autoranger I 10.000 HP 3808A 10.000

Autoranger S 10.000 HP 3820A 10.000
Autoranger II 10.000 HP 3859A 10.000

Beetle 500S 10.000 KERN DM-102 10.000

Beetle 1000S 10.000 KERN DM-104 10.000
Beetle 1600S 10.000 KERN DM-150 10.000
KERN DM-500 10.000
Citation 410 10.000 KERN DM-501 10.000
Citation 450 10.000 KERN DM-502 10.000
KERN DM-503 10.000
Geodimeter 6A 5.000 KERN DM-504 10.000
Geodimeter 6BL 5.000 KERN DM-550 10.000
#Geodimeter 8 5.000 Mekometer ME5000 0.300
Geodimeter 710 5.000 Mekometer ME3000 0.300
Geodimeter 10 10.000
Geodimeter 14 10.000 #Leica (Wild) DI-1001 3.000
Geodimeter 14A 10.000 #Leica (Wild) DI-1600 3.000
Geodimeter 16 10.000 Leica (Wild) DI-20 33.333
Geodimeter 110 10.000 Leica (Wild) DI-2000 10.101
Geodimeter 110A 10.000 #Leica (Wild) DI-2002 3.000
Geodimeter 112 10.000 Leica (Wild) DI-3000 0.000
Geodimeter 114 10.000 Leica (Wild) DI-4 30.769
Geodimeter 116 10.000 Leica (Wild) DI-4L 30.769
Geodimeter 120 10.000 Leica (Wild) DI-4S 30.769
Geodimeter 122 10.000 Leica (Wild) DI-5 30.769
#Geodimeter 134 10.000 Leica (Wild) DI-5S 30.769
Geodimeter 136 10.000 #Leica (Wild) DI-TC1 30.769
Geodimeter 140 10.000 Leica (Wild) TC-1 30.769
Geodimeter 142 10.000 Leica (Wild) TC1000 3.000
Geodimeter 210 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1010 3.000
Geodimeter 216 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC110 1.500
Geodimeter 220 10.000 Leica (Wild) TC1100 3.000
#Geodimeter 408 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1100L 3.000
#Geodimeter 410 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1101 1.500
#Geodimeter 412 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1102 1.500
Geodimeter 420 10.000 Leica (Wild) TC1103 1.500
#Geodimeter 422 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1105 1.500
#Geodimeter 424 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1500 3.000
#Geodimeter 422LR 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1500L 3.000
Geodimeter 440 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1600i 3.000
#Geodimeter 444 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1600ii 10.101
#Geodimeter 460 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1610 3.000
#Geodimeter 510N 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1700 3.000
#Geodimeter 510A 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1700L 3.000
#Geodimeter 520 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1800 3.000
#Geodimeter 540 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC1800L 3.000
Geodimeter 610 10.000 Leica (Wild) TC-1L 30.769
#Geodimeter 620 10.000 Leica (Wild) TC2000 30.769
#Geodimeter 640 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC2002 3.000
#Geodimeter 4400 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC2003 3.000
Geodimeter 6000 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC302 1.500
Geodimeter 540N 3.000 #Leica (Wild) TC303 1.500
Geodimeter 500 3.000 #Leica (Wild) TC305 1.500
Geodimeter 501 3.000 #Leica (Wild) TC307 1.500
#Leica (Wild) TC400N 3.000
HP 3800B 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC400NL 3.000
HP 3810A 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC500 3.000
HP 3805A 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC600 3.000
HP 3810B 10.000 #Leica (Wild) TC605 3.000

EDM Handbook v9.0.doc Date: January 2007 17

Make Model Unit Length (m) Make Model Unit Length (m)

#Leica (Wild) TC605/L 3.000 #Nikon DTM-A5LG 2.000

#Leica (Wild) TC702 1.500 #Nikon DTM-A10 2.000
Leica (Wild) TC703 1.500 #Nikon DTMA10LG 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TC705 1.500 #Nikon DTM-A20 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TC800 3.000 #Nikon DTMA20LG 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TC805 3.000 #Nikon DTM-300 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TC805L 3.000 #Nikon DTM-310 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TC905 3.000 #Nikon DTM-330 7.500
#Leica (Wild) TC905L 3.000 #Nikon DTM-350 7.500
#Leica (Wild) TCA1100 3.000 #Nikon DTM-410 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCA1100L 3.000 #Nikon DTM-420 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCA1101/ 1.500 #Nikon DTM-430 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCA1102/ 1.500 #Nikon DTM-450 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCA1103/ 1.500 #Nikon DTM-520 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCA1105/ 1.500 #Nikon DTM-530 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCA1500 3.000 #Nikon DTM-550 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCA1500L 3.000 #Nikon DTM-521 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCA1700 3.000 #Nikon DTM-531 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCA1800 3.000 #Nikon DTM-551 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCA2003 3.000 #Nikon DTM-720 2.000
Leica (Wild) TCM1100 3.000 #Nikon DTM-730 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCM1100 3.000 #Nikon DTM-750 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCM1101 1.500 #Nikon DTM-820 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCM1102 1.500 #Nikon DTM-830 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCM1103 1.500 #Nikon DTM-850 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCM1105 1.500 #Nikon DTM-821 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCM1800 3.000 #Nikon DTM-831 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCM1800L 3.000 #Nikon DTM-851 2.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR110 1.500 #Nikon NPL-350 0.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR1101 1.500 #Nikon NPL-820 0.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR1101x 1.500 #Nikon NPL-821 0.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR1102 1.500 Nikon NTD-2 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR1102x 1.500 Nikon NTD-2S 10.000
Leica (Wild) TCR1103 1.500 Nikon NTD-3 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR1103x 1.500 Nikon NTD-4 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR1105 1.500 Nikon ND-20 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR1105x 1.500 #Nikon ND-20F 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR302 1.500 Nikon ND-21 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR303 1.500 #Nikon ND-21F 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR305 1.500 Nikon ND-26 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR307 1.500 Nikon ND-30 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR702 1.500 Nikon ND-31 10.000
Leica (Wild) TCR703 1.500 Nikon ND-250 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCR705 1.500 Nikon ND-160 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCRA1101 1.500
#Leica (Wild) TCRA1102 1.500 Pentax MD-14 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCRA1103 1.500 Pentax MD-20 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCRA1105 1.500 Pentax PM-81 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCRM1101 1.500 #Pentax Px 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCRM1102 1.500 Pentax Px-06D 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCRM1103 1.500 Pentax Px-10D 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TCRM1105 1.500 Pentax Px-20D 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TPS1200 1.500 #Pentax PTS2/05 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TPS1100 1.500 #Pentax PTS3/05 10.000
#Leica (Wild) TPS1000 3.000 Pentax PTS-10 10.000
#Pentax PTS-10D 10.000
#Nikon C-100 10.000 #Pentax PTS-V2 10.000
#Nikon D-50 10.000 #Pentax PTS-V2C 10.000
Nikon DTM-1 10.000 #Pentax PTS-V3 10.000
Nikon DTM-5 10.000 #Pentax PTS-V3C 10.000
Nikon DTM-20 10.000 #Pentax PTS-V5 10.000
#Nikon DTM-A5 2.000 #Pentax PCS-1S 10.000

EDM Handbook v9.0.doc Date: January 2007 18

Make Model Unit Length (m) Make Model Unit Length (m)

#Pentax PCS-2 10.000 #Topcon AP-S1 10.000

#Pentax PCS-2S 10.000 Topcon DM-A2 10.000
#Pentax PCS-215 10.000 Topcon DM-A3 10.000
#Pentax PCS-225 10.000 Topcon DM-A5 10.000
#Pentax PCS-325 10.000 Topcon DM-C2 10.000
#Pentax PCS-515 10.000 Topcon DM-C3 10.000
Topcon DM-S1 10.000
Sokkia SDM-1C 10.000 Topcon DM-S2 10.000
Sokkia SDM-1D 10.000 Topcon DM-S3 10.000
Sokkia SDM-300 10.000 #Topcon DM-S3L 3.333
Sokkia SDM-3D 10.000 #Topcon DM-H1 3.333
Sokkia SDM-3E 10.000 #Topcon DI-10 10.000
Sokkia SDM-3ER 10.000 #Topcon GPT1001 0.000
Sokkia SDM-3F 10.000 #Topcon GPT1002 0.000
Sokkia SDM-3FR 10.000 #Topcon GPT2005 0.000
#Sokkia SDM-5A 10.000 #Topcon GPT2006 0.000
Sokkia SDM-5D 10.000 #Topcon GPT6003 0.000
Sokkia SET-2 10.000 #Topcon GPT6005 0.000
#Sokkia SET-2B 10.000 #Topcon GRT2000 10.000
#Sokkia SET-2Bii 10.000 Topcon GTS-1 10.000
#Sokkia SET-2C 10.000 Topcon GTS-2 10.000
Sokkia SET-2Cii 10.000 Topcon GTS-2B 10.000
#Sokkia SET-2000 5.000 Topcon GTS-2S 10.000
#Sokkia SET-2100 5.000 #Topcon GTS201D 10.000
Sokkia 2000 5.000 #Topcon GTS-202 10.000
Sokkia SET-3 10.000 #Topcon GTS211D 10.000
#Sokkia SET-3B 10.000 #Topcon GTS-212 10.000
#Sokkia SET-3Bii 10.000 #Topcon GTS-213 10.000
#Sokkia SET-3C 10.000 #Topcon GTS-223 5.000
#Sokkia SET-3Cii 10.000 #Topcon GTS-225 5.000
#Sokkia SET-3E 10.000 #Topcon GTS-226 5.000
#Sokkia SET-300 5.000 #Topcon GTS-229 5.000
#Sokkia SET-330R 2.000 Topcon GTS-3 10.000
#Sokkia SET-3000 5.000 Topcon GTS-3B 10.000
#Sokkia SET-3100 5.000 #Topcon GTS-3C 10.000
Sokkia SET-4 10.000 #Topcon GTS-3D 10.000
#Sokkia SET-4A 10.000 #Topcon GTS-301 10.000
#Sokkia SET-4B 10.000 #Topcon GTS-303 10.000
#Sokkia SET-4Bii 10.000 #Topcon GTS-304 10.000
#Sokkia SET-4C 10.000 #Topcon GTS-310 5.000
#Sokkia SET-4Cii 10.000 #Topcon GTS-4 5.000
#Sokkia SET-4E 10.000 #Topcon GTS-4A 5.000
#Sokkia SET-4000 5.000 #Topcon GTS-4B 5.000
#Sokkia SET-4100 5.000 #Topcon GTS-5 5.000
#Sokkia SET-5F 10.000 Topcon GTS-6A 5.000
#Sokkia SET-5W 10.000 #Topcon GTS-6E 5.000
#Sokkia SET-500 5.000 #Topcon GTS-6 5.000
#Sokkia Set-600 5.000 #Topcon GTS-6B 5.000
#Sokkia SET-10 10.000 #Topcon GTS-603 5.000
#Sokkia NET-2 2.000 #Topcon GTS-605 5.000
#Sokkia NET-2B 2.000 #Topcon GTS-700 5.000
Sokkia RED-1 10.000 Topcon GTS-701 5.000
Sokkia RED-2 10.000 #Topcon GTS-702 5.000
Sokkia RED-2A 10.000 #Topcon GTS-703 5.000
Sokkia RED-2L 10.000 #Topcon GTS-711 5.000
#Sokkia RED-2LV 10.000 #Topcon GTS-800 5.000
Sokkia RED-3 10.000 #Topcon GTS-800A 5.000
Sokkia RED-MINI 10.000 #Topcon GTS-801 5.000
Sokkia REDMINI2 10.000 #Topcon GTS-801A 5.000
#Sokkia MINI AR 10.000 #Topcon GTS-802 5.000

EDM Handbook v9.0.doc Date: January 2007 19

Make Model Unit Length (m)

#Topcon GTS-802A 5.000

Topcon GTS-10 10.000
#Topcon GTS-10D 10.000
#Topcon ITS-1 5.000
#Topcon ITS-1B 5.000
#Topcon CTS-1 10.000
#Topcon CTS-2B 10.000
#Topcon CS-20 10.000
Topcon ET-1 10.000
Topcon ET-2 10.000

#Traverse 10.000

#Trimble 5600 10.000

#Trimble 5600DRSD 10.000
#Trimble 5600DR2+ 0.000
#Trimble 5600DR3+ 0.000
#Trimble 3600DR 0.500
#Trimble 3600 0.500
#Trimble 3300 10.000

Zeiss RETA 10.000

Zeiss RECOTA 10.000
Zeiss Eldi-1 10.000
Zeiss Eldi-2 10.000
Zeiss Eldi-3 10.000
Zeiss Eldi-4 10.000
Zeiss SM-4 10.000
Zeiss SM-41 10.000
Zeiss ELTA2 10.000
Zeiss ELTA3 10.000
Zeiss ELTA4 10.000
Zeiss ELTA20 10.000
Zeiss ELTA46R 10.000
Zeiss EltaR 10.000
Zeiss RSM 3 10.000
Zeiss E-Elta3 10.000
Zeiss E-Elta4 10.000
Zeiss E-Elta6 10.000

# Denotes that the instrument is not listed in the “Baseline” software.

EDM Handbook v9.0.doc Date: January 2007 20

 Chapter 5: Reduction And Interpretation

An EDM Calibration computer program “Baseline” version 5.4.0.11 (March 2006) has been developed
by the Department of Land Information (DLI) Western Australia for the calibration of EDM instruments
against standard baselines. The calibration of EDM instruments is carried out to determine the
instrument corrections to be applied to measurements and to ensure its reliability. On-line help
provides the user with the instructions necessary to run this software application. Software download
is also freely available from the DSE website at:

http://www.land.vic.gov.au
and follow the links
Geodesy > Survey Equipment Calibration > EDM Calibration Software > Baseline V 5.4.0.11

The software stores the measurements and calibration results of each determination to serve as an
archive.

The Bendigo, Braeside, Hamilton, Loy Yang and Mitcham baseline inter-pillar distances resulting from
the November 2006 re-verification have already been included in the database. These inter-pillar
distances will be updated on an annual basis. A selection of EDM instruments and reflector makes
and models are also included. For EDM which are not included in the list, Baseline will accept the
entry of new instruments although it requires the input of the unit length and the modulation frequency
of the instrument by the operator.

The instrument details, measured distances and observed meteorological details (un-tick the ‘Mets Dial
Set’ box to enter the meteorological data) are entered interactively by the operator. After the observed
data is reduced to obtain horizontal distances and their associated variances, a least square
adjustment is performed. The adjustment is made as suggested by Dr. J.M Rueger (Rueger 1984) for
modelling systematic errors in EDM measurements.

The program produces several reports for analysing an EDM instrument calibration and for analysing a
calibration of a baseline. A certificate which summarises the results of an EDM instrument calibration
is also produced.

As a Verifying Authority, the Surveyor-General can issue Regulation 13 certificates for EDM, certifying
them as reference standards of measurement. Normally this is reserved for precise EDM that are
intended to be used to transfer the standard of length. For a Regulation 13 certificate to be issued, the
entire calibration procedure can only be performed by Land Victoria and a fee is applicable for this
service.

The minimum standards for the uncertainty of calibration are described in terms of Recommendation
No. 8 of the working party of the National Standards Commission (now NMI) on the calibration of EDM
Equipment of 1 February 1983. All uncertainties are specified at the 95% confidence level.

EDM Handbook v9.0.doc Date: January 2007 21

 References

DEAKIN, R. 1983
“A Guide to EDM Calibration”
Department of Surveying,
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.

INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF SURVEYORS (FIG) 1994

“Recommended Procedures for Routine Checks of Electro-Optical Distance Meters”
Technical Monograph No.9 1994, 17 pages.

MURNANE, A.B. 1983

“The Calibration of EDM Equipment for Monitoring Surveys”
In: Rivett. L (Ed), Proceedings, Symposium on the Surveillance of Engineering Structures.
Department of Surveying,
University of Melbourne.
November 1983, 9 pages.

NORTON, T. 1986
“Analysis of EDM Calibration Measurements - Program CALORY”
The Australian Surveyor. Vol 33 No. 1 March 1986 pp. 44-45.

RUEGER, J.M. 1980

“Introduction to Electronic Distance Measurement” Monograph No. 7
School of Surveying,
University of New South Wales, 127 pages.

RUEGER, J.M. 1984

“Instructions on the Verification of Electro-optical Short-Range Distance Meters
on Subsidiary Standards of Length in the form of EDM Calibration Baselines”
Recommendations to the National Standards Commission,
School of Surveying,
University of New South Wales, August 1984, 63 pages.

RUEGER, J.M. 1985

“Traceability of Electronic Distance Measurement to National Standards”
Proceedings 27th Australian Survey Congress, Alice Springs 1985. pp. 149-160.

RUEGER, J.M. 1990

“Electronic Distance Measurement - An Introduction”
Third Totally Revised Edition - Springer-Verlag - Berlin 1990.

SPRENT, A & ZWART P.R. 1978

“EDM Calibration - A Scenario”
The Australian Surveyor Vol 29 No. 3 September 1978 pp. 157-169.

EDM Handbook v9.0.doc Date: January 2007 22

Appendix A – Sample Booking Sheets
EDM Calibration Booking Sheet
BASELINE:

Job name Observer name

Observation date D D M M Y Y Y Y Time am / pm

Instrument make

Instrument model Serial number

Instrument owner

Prism make

Prism model Serial number

Instrument owner

EDM Height above AT Pillar ( METRES) Prism height above TO Pillar ( METRES)

Unit length of EDM

Checklist

Battery OK
Instrument shaded
Instrument set to read slope distances
Atmostpheric correction set to zero ppm
Heights measured above base of tribrach
Meteorological equipment compared with standards

Signature

Meteorological Conditions/Equipment Comparisons

Weather conditions

BEFORE Baseline standard Field Correction

Temp (ºC)

Pres (hPa/mb)

AFTER Baseline standard Field Correction

Temp (ºC)

Pres (hPa/mb)

NOTE: CORRECTION = BASELINE STANDARD – FIELD

Page 1 of 2
EDM Baseline observations
Pillar No Measured slope distance Temp Pres RH*

At To Dist 1 Dist 2 Dist 3 Dist 4 (°C) (hPa/mb) (%)

* OPTIONAL RELATIVE HUMIDITY (RH) CAN BE SET TO 50% IF UNABLE TO MEASURE. Page 2 of 2