Spectra Precision 518621 DET-2 Digital Theodolite, Optical Surveying Instrument for Construction

Spectra Precision DET-2 Digital Theodolite – 2″ Angular Accuracy with Dual LCD Display (Part No. 518621) Optical Surveying Instrument for Construction | Accurate Angle Measurement | Dual Power Supply | IP54 Rated

The Spectra Precision DET-2 Digital Theodolite is a rugged and reliable angular measurement tool designed for general construction, alignment, and layout tasks. With 2-second angular accuracy, a dual backlit LCD display, and a host of configurable settings, the DET-2 offers the performance and ease of use that general contractors, concrete workers, steel erectors, and utility crews depend on for day-to-day site work. Whether you’re turning 90° angles, aligning forms, or checking column plumb, the DET-2 provides the accuracy and control needed to increase productivity and reduce layout errors.

This cost-effective instrument features vertical axis compensation, programmable measurement units (degrees, gons, mils, and percent slope), and selectable angle resolution (1″ or 5″)—making it highly versatile for a wide range of jobsite needs. A built-in optical plummet, reticle illumination, and 30x magnification telescope allow precise control even in low-light or indoor conditions. The instrument is powered by a NiMH rechargeable battery pack with backup AA alkaline pack included, ensuring full-day operation without downtime.

Ideal for use in tilt-up wall positioning, anchor bolt alignment, gravity-fed utility layout, and basic grade staking, the DET-2 brings high-end functionality in a durable and easy-to-learn platform backed by a 2-Year Warranty.

Spectra Precision Digital Theodolite, Optical Surveying Instrument At a Glance

• 2-Second Angular Accuracy: Delivers construction-grade precision for layout, alignment, and plumb verification
• Dual Backlit LCD Displays: Extra-large, easy-to-read characters on both sides eliminate walking around the instrument
• Vertical Axis Compensation: Tilt sensor improves vertical measurement accuracy—can be turned off for manual work
• Optical Plummet with Illuminated Reticle: Speeds up instrument setup over control points—even in low light
• 30x Telescope Magnification: High-quality optics with short minimum focus distance for both close-up and long-range tasks
• Instant Vertical Angle to Percent Conversion: Supports slope work, pipe laser setup, and layout of steep grades
• Simple Keypad Interface: One-touch controls for 0-set, HOLD, vertical % conversion, and direction toggle (R/L)
• Selectable Display Resolution: Choose 1″ for precision or 5″ for fast readings, depending on jobsite needs
• User-Configurable Settings: Adjust angle units, tilt compensation, display brightness, 90° beep, auto shutoff and more
• Power Options Included: NiMH rechargeable battery and 4 x AA alkaline backup pack reduce downtime
• IP54 Rated: Dust and splash resistant for typical outdoor site conditions
• Compact and Rugged Case: Includes plumb bob, charger, tools, user manual, and o-ring sealed hard case for transport

Markets

• General Contractors Used for layout of columns, foundations, and 90-degree reference lines on large and small building sites.
• Concrete & Formwork Crews Ideal for checking wall alignment, footing corners, form angles, and tilt-up placement with precision.
• Steel Erection and Structural Contractors Used to align base plates and check column plumb for steel erection or anchor bolt setup.
• Underground & Utility Installers Useful for gravity-fed pipe layouts, establishing slope grades, and pipe laser setups using Dialgrade systems.
• Residential Construction Perfect for basic short-range leveling, wall layout, and checking squareness of structural framing.
• Parking Lot & Site Development Used to layout islands, curbs, and drainage slopes, especially where consistent 90° angles are required.
• Lighting & Electrical Infrastructure Helps align pole bases, light standards, and trench lines for electrical conduit and utility runs.

A Practical Layout Tool for Precise Site Setup and Control. The DET-2 gives contractors a professional-grade tool for fast and accurate angular measurement without needing a full robotic or total station setup. Its dual LCD displays reduce the need to walk around the instrument when checking alignment or turning angles, and the 90° audible alert helps crews quickly set right angles when laying out footings, walls, or parking lot islands.

With its compact size, rugged construction, and user-friendly operation, the DET-2 is especially useful on concrete foundations, pipe work, tilt-up panels, and short-range grade layouts. The vertical axis compensation corrects for tilt errors automatically, and the vertical angle-to-slope percent conversion is perfect for grading and pipe slope verification. These features help prevent rework and cut time spent checking stakes or form alignment.

Spectra Precision 518621 DET-2 Digital Theodolite, Optical Surveying Instrument for Construction Features

• 2 arc seconds angular accuracy – accurate enough for any construction job, yet the display resolution can be tailored to any operator’s preferences for fast readings
• Vertical axis compensation – tilt sensor provides the highest level of accuracy and can be turned on or off depending on job requirements
• Dual LCD with large characters – easy to see angle readings eliminate errors and reduces eye fatigue
• Simple six button keypad – quick setups and simple operation with low operator learning curve
• Large suite of programmable settings – provide multiple options for various users and job requirements including zero position of vertical angle
• Measurement units in degrees, gon, or mils
• 90 Degree angle audible notification – for quick turning and set out of right angles
• Instant conversion of vertical angles to percent of grade – convenient for slope work and when used in conjunction with Dialgrade® pipe work
• NiMH rechargeable battery pack and charger – lower operating cost with reusable batteries
• Alkaline battery pack standard – provides backup and eliminates downtime if the charge is lost in the middle of a job
• Each DET-2 comes equipped with a plumb bob, NiMH rechargeable battery pack and charger, alkaline battery pack, adjustment tools, rain hood, multi-language user guide, and hardshell, compact, o-ring sealed, carrying case

Spectra Precision 518621 DET-2 Digital Theodolite, Optical Surveying Instrument for Construction Includes

• (1) Theodolite  DET-2
• (1)  Plumb bob
• (1) Adjustment tools: 1210-0150
• (1) Rain hood
• (1) Rechargeable NiMH battery pack: 1210-0170
• (1) Theodolite charger 120 Volt: 1210-0200
• (1) Alkaline battery pack: 1210-0170
• (1) Hard carrying case: 1210-1040

Spectra Precision 518621 DET-2 Digital Theodolite, Optical Surveying Instrument for Construction Specifications

DET-2 Digital Theodolite

Telescope

• Magnification: 30x
• Aperture: 45 mm (1.7″)
• Focus Distance: 1.35 m to ∞ (4.43 ft to infinity)
• Field of View: 1° 30′
• Stadia Ratio: 100
• Stadia Constant: 0

Optical Plummet

• Magnification: 3x
• Angle of View: 5°
• Focusing Range: 0.5 m to ∞ (1.6 ft to infinity)

Angle Measurement

• Accuracy: 2 arc seconds
• Display Resolution: Selectable 1″ or 5″
• Vertical Axis Compensation: ±3°, user on/off
• Measurement Units: Degrees, Mils, Gons, Percent Grade
• Displays: Dual LCD (backlit) with large characters

Power Supply

• Primary: Rechargeable NiMH Battery Pack
• Backup: Alkaline Battery Pack (4 AA Batteries)
• Battery Life: Long runtime depending on power source

Build and Operation

• Ingress Protection: IP54 (dust-protected, water spray-resistant)
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F)
• Size: 164 x 154 x 340 mm (6.4″ x 6.1″ x 13.4″)
• Weight: 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs)
• Warranty: 2-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty

Spectra Precision 518621 DET-2 Digital Theodolite, Optical Surveying Instrument for Construction Warranty

• Spectra Precision’s 2 Year “No Cost” Warranty

Why Professionals Choose the Spectra Precision DET-2 Digital Theodolite, Optical Surveying Instrument for Construction

The DET-2 digital theodolite is often referred to as a “solid layout tool” or “my go-to angle setter” by crews who regularly lay out anchor bolts, forms, columns, or wall panels. It simplifies tasks like turning 90s, checking for square, and verifying elevation transitions across flatwork or sloped systems. Contractors working in concrete, tilt-up, and underground piping often pair it with a pipe laser for setup, or use it to sight a consistent slope using grade percentages.

Searches like “digital construction theodolite”, “pipe slope theodolite”, or “2-second theodolite for jobsite” lead users straight to the DET-2 because it offers serious precision in a package that doesn’t break the bank. It’s a highly dependable, field-ready layout tool that’s easy to use and easier to trust—especially for repeatable, accurate results across large sites. With its dual display, intuitive buttons, and durable carrying case, the Spectra DET-2 is a practical, cost-effective choice for precision layout in construction.