Spectra Precision History

Spectra Precision's history began in the 1940s when a Swedish researcher and surveyor patented the principle of measuring distances very accurately by means of a light beam. This invention revolutionized the surveying industry.  Later, the company produced the first lasers and invented the rotating construction laser; these and other products facilitated a series of dramatic leaps in productivity in the surveying, construction and agricultural markets.

From the early days in the 1950s and 1960s, Spectra Precision grew to become the global market leader in most of its business segments: general construction, road construction, site preparation, surveying, interior finishing, underground utilities and agriculture. The company pioneered the technical development of many of today's most significant positioning technologies, with the mission of satisfying all positioning needs.

Spectra Precision products primarily use light—with optical devices and lasers—to provide precision measurement and positioning information. The products include construction lasers, machine control systems, conventional and robotic survey instruments, and innovative software; the company encompassed well-known and respected names such as Geodimeter®, Laserplane®, Quadriga®, TerraSat®, Zeiss®, and others.