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Total Station (EDM) Surveying
Introduction
Probably the most widely used piece of technology which is utilised by archaeologists is the Total Station (EDM). This versatile piece of equipment is used by the CAF to conduct virtually all of their surveys, both on excavation and of an independent nature. it has also been used as a piece of training equipment on several of the training excavations which the CAF has co-ordinated for the Queens University: School of Archaeology and Palaeoecology.
An EDM, basically, records spot heights and measurements in the field. This data is later converted into scaled plans, contour maps and complete topographic surveys which detail everything on that site. These 2 dimensional drawings are then reproduced in CAF reports and publications using Adobe Illustrator.The EDM data can also be fed into other computer programs such as Surfer 8.0 which allow to produce 3 dimensional outputs from some of the projects - effectively allowing us to produce live models of our sites - from which further interpretations may be made.
This section deals with the Total Station and shows how the CAF is putting it into action. This is accompanied with plenty of pictures and, in the future, sample data files to view on your computer.
Results
The results from the Total can be either 2D (maps, plans, building elevations, topographic surveys) or 3D (site models). Below, through the different case studies, you can browse a wealth of images which showcase the process, results and abilities of the Total sourced from several case studies which the CAF has conducted. Click the image to access the information.
Dunnyneill Island (County Down)
This survey accompanied excavations and was conducted to record a site under threat from coastal erosion.
Site Type: Offshore Island.
