Electrolevels (tiltmeters) typically include a tilt sensor mounted on a rigid beam with a defined gauge length, typically 1 to 2 metre long. Each end of the beam is anchored to a structure (subway tunnel, foundation wall, etc.). The rigid beam makes it easy to convert changes in tilt to millimeters of movement (settlement, heave, convergence, or lateral displacement). Also, beam sensors can be linked end-to-end to monitor differential movements and provide absolute displacement and settlement profiles.

Real-time monitoring with electrolevels within subway structures adjacent to construction sites, for example, has been a useful tool in determining if movements within the tunnel are related to construction activity. With a data-logger on site, remote access to collected data has proved to be a comfort to the client when constructing close to a major public transportation artery.