An early electro-optical instrument used to measure long distances with high precision. It works by transmitting a modulated light beam to a distant retroreflector and measuring the phase shift of the returning signal. Originally a standalone device that surveyors mounted alongside a theodolite, its core technology eventually became integrated into the total stations used on job sites.
Heard on the job
The control network for that dam project was originally shot with a geodimeter, which is why the baseline distances are still so tight.
Insider tip
The name comes from geodetic distance meter and was originally a brand name that became a generic term for early electronic distance measurement gear.