Ranging
The method of establishing intermediate points on a straight line between the two fixed points is known as ranging. It is done before chaining started. It may be done by eye or by using some instruments such as line ranger or theodolite.
Ranging may be
a) Direct Ranging
b) Indirect Ranging
Direct Ranging
Let A and B are the two ends of line AB as shown fig and they are intervisible. On this line let three intermediate points P, Q and R are to be established. To perform ranging for establishing the points P, Q, and R, the surveyor stands at a point S, close to the end A on line BA produced. The assistant holds a ranging rod vertically, approximately near to line AB. By eye judgment the surveyor directs the assistant to move the ranging rod so that A, P and B appear to be in one line . Similarly the other points Q and R also fixed.
Indirect Ranging
Let A and B be two survey stations. They are not mutually visible due to high ground between them. Let two assistant stands at M1 and N1 as shown in fig. The assistant at M1 can see both the ranging rods at N1 and B, and assistant at N1 can see the ranging rod M1 and A.
Now assistant at M1 direct N1 in line BM1, N2 be the new position of N1 on line M1B. The assistant on N2 direct the M1 on line N2A and M2 be the new position of M1.M2 and N2 be the new position of M1 and N1 which are nearer to line AB. Repeat same process until points M and N are established.