Operating a Leica 1200 Series Total Station: Step‑by‑Step Guide

The Leica 1200 series total station is a precision surveying instrument. Below is a general workflow; always consult your specific model’s manual for details.

1. Power On & Setup: Mount on a stable tripod, level using the circular bubble, attach battery.
2. Focus Objective: Adjust eyepiece and objective lens for sharp crosshairs.
3. Target Acquisition: Press “TRK” to enable automatic target recognition (prism or reflectorless).
4. Measure Distance: Press “DIST” for slope/horizontal distance.
5. Measure Angles: Press “ANG” for horizontal and vertical angles.
6. Set Reference Point: Aim at a known control point, press “REF” to establish coordinate system.
7. Record Coordinates: Sight new points, press “MEAS” or “REC” to store positions.
8. Data Storage/Transfer: Save internally or download to a data collector via cable/Bluetooth.
9. Adjust Settings: Use “MENU” to change units, precision, EDM modes, etc.
10. Calibration & Maintenance: Periodically check collimation, compensator, and EDM calibration; keep clean and dry.
11. Power Off: Press power button, disconnect accessories.

Proper training and regular calibration ensure millimeter‑level accuracy for construction, engineering, and mapping projects.