Chapter H. Geodetic Levels and Rods

Geodetic leveling is based on differential leveling, with some differences in the equipment and procedural variations. Because geodetic leveling is used to establish elevation control networks, error minimization is particularly critical. Equipment and procedures reflect this. This chapter briefly describes some typical equipment historically used for geodetic surveying.

For a complete description of current geodetic leveling equipment and procedures, refer to NOAA Manual NOS NGS 3 Geodetic Leveling available in the publications area at the NGS website.