Today, a laser rangefinder is no longer a luxury, as it was literally 5-7 years ago, but a necessity. Without such a tape measure, it is difficult not only in professional construction, but also in ordinary repairs. In addition, today re altors, designers and even representatives of public utilities use rangefinders. Now there are a huge number of tape measures on the market, usually the measurement range does not exceed 50 meters, but if necessary, you can find devices for 70 and even 100 meters.
What are rangefinders and how to use them?
A range finder is a special device, usually ultrasonic, electronic or optical, which is used to determine the distance to an object without contact. In this case, the result appears on the display instantly. The principle of operation is that the device sends a pulse,which is reflected from the surface and captured by a special receiver. For example, phase rangefinders work on the principle of reflected and received phase signal. Information processing is carried out in meters, yards or feet. In addition, such a device may have a laser level. A rangefinder of this type will cost a little more, but its functionality is higher. You will be able to measure horizontal, vertical and inclined surfaces, as well as in hard-to-reach places. In this case, you do not need to be in close proximity to the object. The scope of their use is quite extensive, ranging from construction to geodesy and cartography.
Laser rangefinder: consumer reviews
It is impossible not to take into account such an important aspect as the responses left by consumers. To date, rangefinders are quite popular, so many people buy them. But the reviews are mostly based on which manufacturer was preferred. So, Chinese fakes are not particularly popular and do not enjoy support. According to experts, the accuracy of such products is not encouraging. The best Chinese-made models are hardly suitable for minor repairs at home. Consumers say that European models are much better, although somewhat more expensive. The German company Bosch, which is the leader in the production of construction tools in Europe and the world, has the largest number of positive reviews. In any case, it is better to buy an expensive laser rangefinder, reviews of which arepositive character. For example, the speed and accuracy of measurements play an important role.
What should the choice be based on?
Here there are several criteria, taking into account which you should make this or that purchase. First you need to decide whether you need a professional or household tape measure. If you are buying a rangefinder to carry out repairs at home, then an average-priced household model will be quite enough. If you are professionally engaged in repairs, then it makes sense to buy a multifunctional tape measure. In the latter case, the acquisition will be expensive, you need to remember this.
Another important criterion is the measurement range. Professional models can work at a distance of up to 200 meters, but in practice it rarely makes sense to buy just such a device. In most cases, a minimum range of 30-50 meters is sufficient. You should not lose sight of the functional richness of the device, for example, the ability to calculate the area, memorize the information received (built-in memory), level, etc. Of course, one cannot but mention the manufacturer, as this is one of the most important points.
Minimum required set of functions and device security
It is worth paying your attention to the fact that modern rangefinders have the ability not only to calculate the distance. For example, the simplest Bosch household models are equipped with functions for calculating area, addition and subtraction, etc. It is desirable that the device has a slot for a memory card, which is necessary to store the results. ATIn principle, the set of functions of household rangefinders is approximately the same, which is why such roulettes are somewhat cheaper. Professional models are equipped with a timer, built-in bluetooth (to be able to transfer data to computers). In addition, there is the possibility of splitting into segments and the use of an inclinometer. We can say with great confidence that in 90% of cases a household appliance is enough. For example, the Bosch laser rangefinder, which we will review a little below, is famous for having a housing well protected from moisture and dust. This is of great importance when working in dusty areas, in difficult weather conditions, etc.
Bosch laser rangefinder: benefits and consumer reviews
As noted above, the German products manufactured by this company are famous for their high build quality. The Bosch roulettes are no exception. Let's look at the PLR 25 model worth 6 thousand rubles. This is a household tape measure with a range of 25 meters and a deviation of 2 millimeters. The device will allow you to calculate the volume, area, and also remember the results. It is noteworthy that, with a weight of only 180 grams, the Bosch PLR 25 has a large number of functions that are inherent in professional rangefinder models. The measurement time ranges from 0.5 to 4 seconds depending on the working environment. The better the lighting and less dust, the faster you will get results. It should be noted that there is an energy saving mode, which consists in turning off the device afterseveral minutes of downtime. In principle, the Bosch PLR 25 laser rangefinder is an excellent choice not only for amateurs, but also for professionals at a reasonable price. As for consumer reviews about this model, they are all positive. This is due not only to an affordable price with a large number of functions, but also to a generally high build quality.
Leica Disto D2 review
The laser rangefinder from this manufacturer has 5 stars from consumers. The tool is used for professional purposes, and therefore it will cost at least 12,000 rubles. The tape measure is very compact and weighs only 160 grams. It is noteworthy that this model is very accurate. The deviation does not exceed 1.5 mm. According to the product passport, its range is about 60 meters, but users have a slightly different opinion on this matter. So, many say that in a dark room you can measure at a distance of 30 meters, and in a bright room at an even smaller one. To compensate for this minus, many recommend purchasing a reflector. Please note that Disto is a laser rangefinder with a protected housing and great functionality. Here you have addition, subtraction, determination of volume, area, sound signals for people with poor eyesight and much more. Ideal solution for professional use, for everyday use you can buy something simpler.
Advantages of laser roulettes
We have already said quite a lot about the fact that it is very convenient, fast, etc. But it is worth paying your attention to the fact that the rangefinder inmost cases is a necessity. For example, if you do not have the opportunity to work with a partner who would help carry a tape measure from one corner of the room to another, then a laser tape measure will be your main assistant. You will take measurements without being in close proximity to the desired object. With this in mind, we can say that alone you can easily measure what you cannot reach with your hand or even from a ladder. In addition, the speed and accuracy of such a roulette is somewhat higher than the traditional one. Another question is which laser rangefinders are better. Laser roulettes from most European manufacturers deserve attention. As you can see, Bosch makes very high-quality devices, but there are many others. Let's look at a few of them.
Popular brands
A little higher you can see two small reviews of popular rangefinders. It is these two manufacturers (Leica and Bosch) that are considered leaders in the world. However, companies still focus on the manufacture of professional tools, so you can not always choose a household appliance. Although Bosch produces an impressive line of inexpensive rangefinders for home use. However, not everyone has enough money to buy products from these manufacturers. For example, professionals very often buy Hilti rangefinders, which are considered one of the most accurate. Prices for the best models start at 8 thousand rubles, and if we are talking about a household model, then 5 thousand will be enough for you to buy. But judging by consumer reviews, for home repairs, the mostthe best are the devices "Skil". Such a tape measure is a laser level, a rangefinder and the ability to calculate the area in one product. You decide.
How to make the right choice?
If you buy a laser rangefinder, the instruction must be in Russian. This is especially true for famous brands. If this is a Chinese fake, then there can be no talk of a guarantee and any instructions. Most of the popular companies give a warranty for several years on their rangefinders. Always pay attention to how well the case is protected from moisture and dust. If you will be working in the rain or snow, this is especially true. If you are making a purchase for home use, then do not prioritize the measurement range. In most cases, 20-40 meters is enough, but the presence of additional functions is quite important. It will be useful to have a level with which you can level the mounting surfaces. In addition, the presence of a reflector is also useful. But remembering the results in most cases is not required. Nothing prevents you from carrying a notebook and pen with you and taking notes, especially since most of us are so used to it, and it is quite convenient.
Good to know for everyone
There are some useful rules that everyone who works with a rangefinder should know. First, do not aim the laser beam at your eyes, as it can cause retinal burns, especially if exposed for a long time. Second, always try to place the appliance on a solid surface, preferably onspecial tripod, so you increase the accuracy of measurements. Always remember that direct sunlight hitting a laser beam can make it barely visible to the human eye. Although this does not affect the accuracy of measurements, you will not be able to see where the laser was directed.
Conclusion
So we figured out the issue of rangefinders. As you can see, the device is very useful and necessary. This purchase will not be redundant. In addition, there is no need to buy expensive models. It always makes sense to settle for something in between. The robot 40 laser rangefinder, which is capable of providing high accuracy and measurement range (40 meters), is exactly what professionals need. For amateurs, an inexpensive roulette of the company "Skil" or "Bosch" is suitable. The key is to always make a smart purchase that you won't regret.
