Laser rangefinders measure distances with the help of laser technology – with the highest possible accuracy. They are used to determine the distance between two points in space. In addition, there is often the option of calculating areas and volumes with various devices. These measuring devices are, so to speak, the further development of the folding rule and tape measure – with increased accuracy, easier handling and increased productivity.
Professional devices in this area usually offer a digital target finder and are protected against splash water, dirt and dust. A Bluetooth®, USB, app or WLAN connection also ensures easy documentation.
Another type of measuring instrument is a level. They are used to measure height differences and create height horizons. The level has a telescopic sight that is aligned perpendicular to the plumb line. It can be rotated freely and can measure any point on the same horizon line.
In our guide we would like to introduce you to various laser rangefinders and a leveling device from the new Leica Geosystems series and show you the various areas of application. Leica alternatives are also highlighted.
Leica DISTO S910 – laser distance meter for outdoor use
The BENNING LD 60 contains the optimized LDM technology from Leica Geosystems. Placed on a location, it measures the distance between several points and can export the measured data to CAD. The measurement can be exported flexibly and quickly with WLAN, USB and Bluetooth functions.With the P2P (point to point) measurement technology, the DISTO S910 can measure distances between two points – but not only that. Multiple P2P measurements can also be carried out in order to measure more complex areas such as roofs. The combination of an integrated inclination sensor and P2P technology provides a multitude of measurement options. An intelligent area measurement function is also included, with which the outlines of an area can be measured – regardless of whether it is clockwise or counterclockwise and regardless of the shape of the area.
The measurement results are exported either as .DXF files to CAD or as .JPG images.
Leica LINO ML 180 – cross line laser also for larger distances
The Leica Lino ML180 is a 90 ° cross line laser with a plumb point, four cross points and four laser lines. The laser receiver can be used as a remote control thanks to the electronic self-leveling and adjustment.
The XCR Catch laser receiver is much more than just a remote control. It reports when you are in agreement with the laser beam and helps with the smart targeting function to automatically capture the laser beam. With the remote control function, the Lino ML180 can be rotated horizontally by +/- 4 degrees. This is particularly advantageous when you are working alone outside at great distances of up to 50 meters. In addition, the XCR Catch has a large receiving window, which is located on each side of the laser receiver, and a receiver display, which is located on both sides of the device. These functionalities increase flexibility because the position of the laser line can then be read from different working positions.
Because the electronic self-leveling automatically compensates itself when the device is outside of it, the LINO ML180 can work with the highest precision. Cost-intensive errors due to incorrect line projections can thus be eliminated, even over long distances.
Because the ML180 can be operated either with a rechargeable battery or battery and also while charging, the service life is virtually unlimited.
Leica NA332 level, 360 ° leveling device for the highest quality under extreme conditions
The automatic optical levels of the Leica NA300 series have been designed for everyday obstacles and bumps on construction sites. With protection class IP54, the Leica NA332 level defies even the harshest conditions and can be used at operating temperatures between -20 ° to + 40 °.The standard deviation is only a minimum of 1.8mm per kilometer and a 32x magnification is also possible with the NA332. The perfectly matched mirror ensures that the horizontal level can be adjusted with the highest possible accuracy and reliability.
Leica Rugby 680 – Semi-automatic laser with grade input
Designed for construction companies, the Leica Rugby 680 takes on work that is mainly carried out on one level, but also occasionally have single and double slopes. The device is particularly effective for all leveling and leveling work.When performing tilt applications, the simple user interface, four-button menu and digital display make the job easier and more efficient.
Certified with protection class IP 65 and a working temperature of -20 ° to + 50 °, the Leica Rugby 680 is a guarantee for reliable performance even under the toughest construction site conditions.
Laser alternatives to Leica: Bosch and Stabila
Two common alternatives to Leica Geosystems are lasers from Bosch and Stabila, for example the LAX 400 (Stabila) or the Bosch PLL 360.The LINO L2P5 from Bosch is a class 2 cross line laser. The 360 ° laser line ensures high precision and the practical locking function enables the laser to be aligned at different angles. The ¼ inch thread fits all common tripods and wall brackets. The leveling time is 4 seconds and the accuracy per meter is 0.4 mm. At only half a kilogram, the laser is light and handy. The Stabila LAX 400 is also a class 2 cross line laser with a 360 ° horizontal line for marking, aligning and leveling throughout the room. This technique is particularly suitable for transferring the layout from the floor to the ceiling and for quick and precise soldering. The range is 20 meters and the accuracy is 0.3 mm per meter.
