What is a total station and what are its main features?

A total station is an electronic surveying instrument that combines EDM (Electronic Distance Measurement) and electronic theodolite functions in one unit. Main features include: measurement of horizontal and vertical angles, distance measurement using infrared or laser, automatic calculation of coordinates, on-board data storage and processing, prism or reflectorless measurement capability, and digital display. It provides high accuracy and efficient data collection for modern surveying.