In a survey system involving either differential global positioning (DGPS) or robotic total station (RTS) systems, the mobile station includes the radio system in the surveyor pole and either connects the laser reflector system or the GPS to the top of the pole or provides a connector for releasably connecting the laser reflector system or GPS. Electric connections between the GPS or laser reflector system, and the radio system are made either by using the physical connector between the pole and the GPS or laser reflector system, or by providing separate electrical conductors and electrical connectors from the pole to the GPS or laser reflector. In the case of a RTS system the base station includes a GPS for locating the position of the base station. For added convenience, the pole may be formed in sections and the power supply may include an inductive coupling battery charger. Data communications may also take place using wireless technology such as Bluetooth.