The 6 Best Laser range finder

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How much space do I have for the new kitchen unit and is the garden also as large as stipulated in the contract? Whether for private or professional use: Everyone who knows the exact measure saves time, money and nerves. Current laser rangefinders are a practical and fast solution and they deliver precise results even at 200 meters with small deviations of 1 to 2 millimeters. But how do they work and what must be taken into account when purchasing and using them? The answers to these questions can be found here.

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DIY articles: Laser range finder Video Guide

Measuring tape and folding rule are reliable tools; however, they can also be impractical for long lengths and angled surfaces and a measurement without an assistant is often not possible. In contrast, laser rangefinders determine the length using optical methods and are much easier to use. In optical distance measurement, the reflection of a light pulse, laser, is evaluated for length measurement. Depending on the method used, either the propagation time or the change (phase shift and modulation) of the laser beam is used for the calculation. The measurement takes place from one point and the decisive factor is whether there is a free line of sight. The disadvantages of optical distance measurement naturally result on the one hand from the properties of the reflecting material and on the other hand from the influence of ambient light. This is not a problem for indoor measurements, only outdoor use in direct sunlight can be difficult. In this case, laser target plates can help. The most decisive advantages are provided by the microchips used, which enable additional functions such as area and volume calculation or indirect length measurement. At this point the different models and manufacturers differ

The market now offers an extensive range of range finders that work with lasers. The differences are mainly determined by the performance of the laser optics used and the additional functions of the integrated memory and computing units. The most important distinguishing features are summarized here: Indoor or outdoor: Rangefinders designed for outdoor use have a range of 50 to 300 metres. Devices with a shorter range are primarily intended for indoor use. To ensure that measurements can still be taken at great distances, sophisticated devices are equipped with homing systems; for example the Leica DISTO(TM) D510: The integrated camera with 4x zoom allows the laser point to be aimed at at great distances without errors. Area and volume: Anyone who has ever planned the heating requirement or the use of materials for parquet floors will appreciate this function. For distance meters with area and volume calculation, such as the Bosch GLM 50 Professional, 2 or 3 simple measurements are sufficient to obtain the result in square or cubic meters. Indirect height and distance measurement: How do I measure the total height of a house or the distance if an obstacle blocks the direct line of sight? To solve such measurement problems, many laser rangefinders work with a built-in tilt sensor and the Pythagorean theorem: As soon as an angle and the length of one side are known, the rangefinder takes over the calculation based on a right-angled triangle. Even the affordable entry-level TROTEC BD20 provides good results in difficult measurement scenarios. Integrated planning app: The two market leaders Bosch and Leica now offer extensive software packages for iOS, Android and Windows for their laser rangefinders. The apps transfer the measured values directly from the Bluetooth interface of the devices designed for this purpose, for example the Leica DISTO(TM) D110 distance meter and the Bosch PLR 50 C distance meter. You insert the values into a sketch, which can then be further processed, exported as PDF and sent by mail. In addition to these main features, the various laser rangefinders have numerous additional features such as protection against dust and splash water, rotatable display, staking out function and many more

Of course, a relatively new technology such as laser distance measurement also raises numerous further questions. Answers to the most frequently asked questions are summarized here: How dangerous is the laser beam? Laser rangefinders mainly use class two lasers. These are harmless in normal operation. The direct radiation on one eye can cause injuries. The use of laser glasses is recommended. Laser or ultrasonic rangefinder: Which is better? Ultrasonic range finder measure a distance by the reflection of sound. The measurement method is less accurate and can be greatly distorted by larger obstacles. In addition, ultrasonic rangefinders require a large reflection area, whereas a small measuring point is sufficient for the laser method. Is distance measurement with lasers reliable in all conditions? The measuring tolerance under good conditions is usually between 1 and 2 millimetres. With insufficient reflection of the target, strong ambient light and high temperature fluctuations, the deviation can be greater for measurements over 5 meters: approx. 1 millimeter tolerance per 10 meters measuring distance. In poor conditions, laser targets should be used for accurate measurement. How expensive is maintenance and care? The devices are designed for construction site operation and are therefore very robust. In principle, no sharp cleaning agent or coarse cloth should be used. In particular, the optical lens must be cleaned carefully, as with a camera, if necessary. There is no need for further maintenance other than replacing the batteries. What are the possible applications for laser range finders? The main application is undoubtedly in the building sector and in the interior design of house and garden in the private environment. In addition, there are fields of application for certain sports (golf, hunting) and in the military. What other accessories are recommended in addition to laser target boards and laser glasses? Most devices are already supplied with a practical belt pouch. In addition, a tripod is particularly useful when measuring long distances outdoors in order to be able to carry out an accurate measurement. The measurement of length, area and volume with a laser rangefinder is today the fastest and most reliable method. In many cases, it can save time and money and, above all, spare nerves. There are probably only a few people who remain calm if the kitchen block supplied is half a centimetre too long or too much has been paid for the garden just because the measurement was inaccurate.

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