Automatic dumpy levels have been around for years. They are most often used by surveyors, builders and engineers on site to find elevations also known as levels in buildings. A dumpy allows them to set, measure and transfer horizontal levels.
The optical instrument was given the name after the shorter telescope it uses and because the original dumpy level had an eyepiece that was an inverted lens giving a shorter view. The history of the dumpy dates back to 1832 when English civil engineer William Gravatt invented it while working on a railway.
Also known as a builders’ level, the automatic level can determine relative height and distance among different locations.
The dumpy level is still popular today because it has few moving parts and adjustments to be made as well as high optical power. They are designed to survive tough on-site conditions - from dust and dirt to vibrations from heavy machinery.
Recommended Automatic Levels
When it comes to buying an automatic dumpy level, you are spoilt for choice. Too much choice. For this guide, we’ve included the brands we most recommend.
Sokkia B40A Automatic Level
With a slightly reduced magnification of 24x, the Sokkia is still a powerful unit.
Magnification: 24x
Accuracy: +/- 1.5mm Standard deviation/1km
Short focus distance to 20cm
Setting accuracy:
Precise, field-proven compensator.
Horizontal angle measurement.
Stadia lines on the reticle allow distance measurements.
Superior telescope with two-speed focus knob.
Quick-collimation with two horizontal motion knobs.
See the Sokkia B40A Automatic Level in the online store.
GSR BL24 Automatic Optical Level
The GSR offers the same 24x magnification as the Sokkia.
Magnification: 24x
Accuracy: +/- 0.5"
Horizontal bubble: 8' per 2 mm of movement
Short focus distance to 50cm
Setting accuracy: +/- 0.5"
Check out the GSR BL24 Automatic Optical Level in the online store.
Geo Fennel Auto Level 22x Magnification
The No. 10 Level Series has been a market leader for more than 15 years.
Magnification: 22x
Accuracy: +/- 2.5mm Standard deviation/1km
Horizontal bubble: 8' per 2 mm of movement
Short focus distance to 50cm
Setting accuracy: +/- 0.5"
For more information about the Geo Fennel Auto Level 22x Magnification or the 26x Magnification see the online store.
Leica Auto Level NA724
If you are looking for extreme robustness on site, the Leica range may suit you.
Magnification: 24x
Accuracy: +/- 2.0mm Standard deviation/1km
Horizontal bubble: 10' per 2 mm of movement
Short focus distance to 50cm
Setting accuracy: +/- <0.5"
Check out the Leica Auto Level NA724 in the online shop.
Nikon AC-2S Automatic Level
With its traditional quality optics, compact size and magnetically dampened compensator, the Nikon is another popular brand.
Magnification: 24x
Accuracy: +/- 2.0mm Standard deviation/1km
Horizontal bubble: 10' per 2 mm of movement
Short focus distance to 75cm
For more information about the Nikon AC-2S Automatic Level, see the online store.
GSR Laser Tools completes a pre-delivery in-house check on all dumpies. An in-house certification is also available on request.
We also recommend taking a look at our High Precision Optical Levelling tools.
If you have any queries about deciding on the right automatic dumpy level for you, don’t hesitate to call us on (08) 9409 4058 or email sales@gsrlasertools.com.au.