The Auto level (traditionally referred to as a dumpy level) is an automatically leveling high performance optical instrument useful during site surveys and building construction to gather , transfer or set horizontal levels and grade applications. The instrument contains a stadia reticle that enables rough distance measurement estimation between instrument & grade rod/staff. Auto level is the preferred instrument on construction sites due to its ease to use, rapid set up time and reduced operator fatigue.

The automatic level includes an internal magnetically damped compensator mechanism that automatically removes any remaining variation from level and keeps line of sight continuously level. The unit includes a 360 degree angle reference. This eliminates the need or the skill required, as is in the case of traditional dumpy or tilting levels to set up the instrument in each quadrant, to ensure it is accurate through a full 360° traverse .