This International Standard defines terms relating to geodetic field instruments only, e.g. distance meters, levels, theodolites and others, and their essential component parts which are normally used in terrestrial measuring operations of ordnance survey, topographic survey, plane survey and engineering survey. Therefore terms concerning fields such as the following are not mentioned, e.g. photogrammetry, astronomy, hydrographic survey and industrial metrology.

Accessories which are not necessary for the functioning of the instruments are not dealt with. The terms are arranged in English alphabetical order.

For practical reasons, terms in lightface type marked with an asterisk (^*) are explained only in a note or in the context of the definition of another term. These terms can also be found in the alphabetical index.