Laser distance meters are versatile electronic tools that can measure distances at the touch of a button, using one hand. Because they are accurate, fast and do not require users to climb ladders or put themselves in other risky situations in order to take measurements, they are preferred by professionals and are quickly replacing tape measure in the construction industry and elsewhere.
The way they work is easily illustrated by a block diagram. A laser distance meter block diagram would consist of three boxes, one for each core component. Those would be, the laser diode, the laser sensor and the timer circuit. During a measuring operation, the timer measures the interval taken by the laser pulse to make the trip from the diode, to the target and back to the sensor. The formula being implemented is Distance is equal to Speed (of Light) times Time divided by Two. Ultrasonic distance meters use the same formula and have similar features, but because the measuring principle is sound, they are much less accurate and not suitable for professional applications.
Laser Tape Measure
Models are considered either entry-level or advanced. Entry-level devices measure up to 100 feet (30 meters) and are appropriate for indoor areas in small buildings. Besides distance, they can perform addition, subtraction, can calculate areas and volumes and many can derive inaccessible distances through the Pythagoras theorem. Advanced tools have longer ranges, usually from 200 to 600 feet, offer higher precision and are equipped with many more functions, each solving a measurement problem. Their price range is between 200 and 1000 dollars.
The ideal laser distance meter can calculate distances of up to 200 meters with a precision of plus or minus one millimeter. It has a user-friendly and intuitive interface. It can calculate squares, room sections, triangles, trapezoids, polygons and volumes with a few key strokes. Results can be displayed in several unit types, including decimal feet. True horizontal distance can be calculated instantly through the tilt sensor. It can recall as many of the most recent values as possible, for later access, as this is much faster than alternating attention between measuring and writing down. Its display should be illuminated and have an easy-to-read format for easy comprehension in all light conditions. It should have several measuring references including front, rear, tripod and extension. A tripod allows the measuring range to double since the device can be rotated 180 degrees, horizontally. An extension enables measurements to be taken from inside corners and around edges. It should have a data transfer feature, either USB or wireless. It should have strong environmental protection guaranteeing accurate functioning in the presence of dust, water or after drops. It should have ergonomic design, small dimensions and light weight. It should be battery efficient. Finally, it should be protected by a generous warranty of 3 years.
The most versatile laser distance meter in the world and the one that comes closest to being ideal is the Disto D8 by Leica Geosystems. Although it is also the most expensive, it is comforting to think that it costs less than what an entry-level device did, 10 years ago, when these tools first came out. This says a lot about technology and the market.
When selecting a laser distance meter, the best way to start is to make a list of your requirements and then to look at the different models to see which one is a best fit. The most popular and reliable laser distance meters come from three manufacturers - Leica Geosystems, Bosch and Fluke. Your search can be confined to the 14 models by these three manufacturers.
Laser Distance Meters - All You Need To Know
