Laser rangefinder: repair, principle of operation and example of a homemade meter. We pick up a rangefinder when precise distance is important! Laser rangefinder working principle

A rangefinder is a device designed to determine the distance between an observer and a distant object without the need to approach it. It is widely used in geodesy, as well as in construction, topography and other fields. Military personnel also use rangefinders to adjust fire from sniper weapons and mortar launchers.

Who needs a rangefinder, and its advantages over a measuring tape?

The use of rangefinders has many advantages over traditional measuring devices, since it makes it possible to obtain accurate data on the distance to an object in a matter of seconds. In this case, the operator using the device can remain in one place. It's much more convenient and faster. This produces accurate indicators with minimal error. For example, if you measure the distance between two objects on a landscape, then when using an ordinary measuring tape, a large error may arise due to the presence of irregularities and depressions in the trajectory of movement. Rangefinders measure in a perfectly straight line, eliminating factors that affect accuracy.

The use of such equipment in everyday life is unjustified. It can be used by builders, but only those who are engaged in the construction of buildings, and not interior decoration. The cost of such a tool, as well as the time required to set it up, make its use for mounting markings on walls irrelevant. In the same case, if it is necessary to mark the boundaries for pouring a foundation or digging a large pit for large buildings, then naturally a rangefinder will be much more convenient than a tape measure.

Rangefinders are also often used by photographers who prefer to shoot landscapes. This equipment is also of interest to astronomers, surveyors, military personnel and navigators. This is a purely professional tool that should not be purchased by an amateur who plans to use it occasionally.

Types of rangefinders based on operating principle

Based on the principle of operation, existing rangefinder designs are divided into two categories:

Active.
Passive.

Active They are pointed by the lens at the point to which it is necessary to measure the distance, after which they send a light or sound signal to it. Having reached the surface of the object, it is reflected and returns back. The device's sensitive element detects the wave and calculates the distance to the object based on the time it took to travel.

Active rangefinders come in the following types:

Sound.
Light.
Laser.

Concerning passive, then they do not send any signals. Determination of distance is carried out according to a completely different principle. Such instruments work according to the laws of geometry. Using passive instruments, the constructed isosceles triangle is calculated, using the parameters of which the distance can be calculated.

Passive rangefinders are:

Optical.
Threaded.

Ultrasonic range finder

It is the most inaccurate device operating on the active principle. This equipment has a similar method to what dolphins or bats use to navigate. The device creates a sound wave directed forward at the object to which you want to measure the distance. When the pulse reaches an obstacle, an echo is created, which is reflected and hits the sensitive part of the ultrasonic device.

Such devices use sound with a high frequency of about 40 kHz. It is elusive to the human ear, so using such a rangefinder does not cause any discomfort. These are relatively inexpensive devices, but in order to use them, you need to correctly direct the impulse, which takes time. Of course, measuring with a tape measure takes much longer, but laser tools are more advanced than ultrasonic ones.

Laser rangefinder

One of the most sought after. It directs a beam of light at the object, which is reflected and returned to the sensitive sensor of the device. Based on the time it takes for the light beam to move back and forth, the device automatically calculates the distance. Thus, the operator simply reads the finished digital data from the display.

Such devices can be equipped with lasers of various powers. The measurement range depends specifically on the brightness of the emitter. On sale you can find construction rangefinders with a range of 20 to 50 m. There are also more powerful devices used by surveyors. Laser devices are very reliable, and most importantly, they can be repaired. Almost any part that has failed can be replaced at a service center.

Laser rangefinders are an electronic device that requires a power source. It can be a built-in rechargeable battery or ordinary finger-type batteries. In terms of savings, the best device is a battery-powered one that can be charged from the mains. The cost of ensuring its operation is much lower than when periodically purchasing batteries for replacement.

An important advantage that a laser rangefinder has is the ability to measure distance to a specific point. Other types of instruments do not have this function. The beam of the laser beam is very thin, so it reaches the desired area of the object and is reflected back from it. If the surface is relief, for example a steep rock, then only such a device will make it possible to obtain accurate data.

When using a laser rangefinder to measure distances from very distant objects of several hundred meters, the device must be mounted on a tripod. The fact is that shaking hands at such a significant distance will not allow the equipment to catch the reflected signal, as well as initially direct it directly to the target. If the device is fixed motionless, this will avoid such factors affecting the error.

The measurement accuracy of a laser rangefinder largely depends on the conditions in which the work is carried out. In the open air with good sunlight, the device loses its sensitivity, especially if you have to operate over long distances. It also doesn't work well in fog, but this problem is common to all types of rangefinders because they require line of sight.

Optical rangefinder

It works on a passive principle. Such devices are often used by surveyors because the instrument supports long-distance measurements. If you need to carry out topographic work, it is better to choose equipment of this type. Such devices work according to the well-known Pythagorean theorem, which is one of the most important in geometry.

Such tools do not have a sensor that automatically determines the distance. Looking through the eyepiece of an optical rangefinder, you need to visually record the data on a special scale, so obtaining an error is inevitable.

Although optical rangefinders are a very good option for long-range measurements, if you need to measure the distance to a steep object with a relief surface, for example a steep rock wall, then when viewed through a telescope, this surface will look like an ordinary plane. As a result, the obtained distance parameters will have a significant error and distance readings as a whole, and not to a specific reference point.

Optical rangefinders are either monocular or stereoscopic. Their operating principle is slightly different, since the first allow you to calculate the distance using geometric formulas for a right triangle, and the second for an isosceles triangle. A monocular is cheaper than a rangefinder with two telescopes. In addition, it is less convenient because it causes operator fatigue. It is more comfortable to look through stereoscopic rangefinders, and in addition they are able to determine the distance to a moving object.

Thread rangefinder

It works on a similar principle to optical. Geometric calculations are used to carry out measurements. The device is used with a special rod with a scale marked on it in 2 cm divisions. It is transferred to the point to which the distance needs to be measured. The bar is installed horizontally. It is buried in the ground or supported by special stands. In extreme cases, a partner can hold it with his hands. After the bar is installed, you need to return to the point from which you want to take the measurement and look at the scale of the bar through the lens of the device. Its spotting scope has thin horizontal threads installed. Looking through the eyes of the rangefinder, you need to calculate how many divisions on the bar scale fit between two lines. After receiving the data, all that remains is to carry out the calculation using a special plate or formula, depending on your desire.

Such equipment is quite accurate, but very inconvenient. The fact is that when using it, in any case, you will have to go to the object to which you need to measure the distance in order to install a staff with a scale. Afterwards you will need to return to the device and look through the telescope. If we are talking about distances of several hundred meters, then such transitions will take a lot of time and effort. In this regard, specialists who use such rangefinders usually work with a partner. Other types of equipment allow you to work alone.

An electronic device that allows you to determine the distance to an object remotely is called a laser rangefinder or tape measure. The devices have found their application not only in construction, but also in other areas, for example, landscape design, military industry, engineering, etc. If you are planning to renovate a house or build an extension, then how to choose a laser tape measure is asked by many who want to simplify and speed up the work.

Laser roulette and its purpose

Laser ruler is the third name for an optical electronic device for measuring distances between two points. Its main purpose is to measure the length from one object to another. This tool is designed to facilitate labor when carrying out measuring work. The main convenience of a rangefinder is that it eliminates the need to use mechanical tape measures, rulers and other devices that require the help of a partner to measure.

Laser tape measures measure length remotely, that is, the master just needs to point them at the surface, the distance to which you need to find out, and read the readings on the device’s display. If it is not difficult to measure the length in an apartment with a regular tape measure, then at long distances the device has no equal.

The instrument is called a rangefinder because it allows one to measure distances over long distances, thereby facilitating a person’s physical labor. This is convenient when you need to find out the length of the span between telephone sewer wells, determine the length of pipes and heating plants, and also identify the gap between the walls. A length meter can be used not only to find out the distance between two points, but also to implement the following tasks:

Calculation of room area. The rangefinder automatically carries out calculations, for which you need to specify the relevant data - length, width and height
Identification of the volume of the room or related objects, for example, barrels, tanks and other types of containers
Perform calculations using the Pythagorean theorem

By design, a laser rangefinder is a device based on an LED emitter. This is a red or green dot that is projected onto the surface being measured. The distance is measured by the length of the beam. The readings are displayed in human-readable form on the LCD display. The control panel has control buttons that allow you to switch modes.

On the control panel you can select units of measurement - centimeters, millimeters, decimeters and meters. Additionally, devices can be equipped with auxiliary elements - sights, video cameras, etc. Structurally, the device looks like a mobile phone, but there are also larger models. A miniature laser rangefinder is inexpensive, so everyone can afford such a purchase when carrying out repair and construction work.

What is the operating principle of the rangefinder based on?

The operation of a laser rangefinder-roulette consists of taking measurements of the time it takes for a beam to be reflected in one direction and back (response time). This type of operating principle allows you to find out the distance with maximum accuracy. The generated laser beam is projected onto the surface and then reflected from it, returning to the receiver. Depending on the time of return of the beam, the extent to the object is determined. Calculations are made by a microcontroller located in the device.

Many say that the principle of operation of a laser rangefinder is based on time - from the passage of the created beam and its return back. At the same time, the instrument calculates the beam return time, on the basis of which the corresponding length indicators are issued. However, not all devices work this way. Let's look at how a pulse-type laser rangefinder works, which can measure distances up to 15,000 meters.

The above shows schematically how a pulse type laser rangefinder works. Operating the device in question is quite simple, so there are no questions about how to use a laser rangefinder correctly. You need to apply the device to one point, and then project the beam onto an object, the distance to which needs to be determined. Within a few seconds, information about the length in digital value is displayed on the LCD screen.

This is interesting! Laser roulettes are the most modern and accurate. Previously, remote-type devices were used, the measurements of which were carried out using ultrasound. The disadvantage of such devices is that they have large errors, so they never became widespread.

Criterias of choice

Why buy the best laser rangefinder if you plan to use it occasionally. Devices that measure distances up to 30 meters will cost 5000-6000 rubles. Chinese analogues are 2 times cheaper, but they do not last as long as branded models, for example, Bosch, Interskol and others. Devices capable of measuring at a distance of up to 300 meters cost at least 25,000 rubles, so the first and most important criterion for choosing a laser meter is its range. It all depends on where the work is planned to be carried out:

If indoors, then a device with a range of 30 meters is enough
If outdoors, then the maximum measurement range must be taken into account. It is better to buy a device with a length measurement reserve, so models for 100, 150, 200 or 300 meters are suitable

This is interesting! Outdoor rangefinders are usually equipped with special tripods or tripods, which greatly simplify measurements. Expensive models are also equipped with sights, video finders and video cameras, through which the accuracy of the measurements is increased. They are also called outdoor because of their high degree of protection from dust and moisture.

When purchasing, you must also consider the following criteria:

Availability of a built-in viewfinder. If you plan to carry out work outdoors, then the presence of a visor on the device is mandatory. Visors are either digital or optical. The optical viewfinder is implemented through the use of a lens, and the digital viewfinder operates through the use of a display. Trying to save money and buy a laser rangefinder without a viewfinder will result in the measurement results having large errors. If the laser rangefinder will be used indoors, then models without sights are suitable for this
Minimum measurement length. Many people do not take this criterion into account when purchasing, so in the end they cannot measure a distance of up to 50 cm with the device. However, such a distance is not difficult to measure with a ruler or mechanical tape measure, but when purchasing, be sure to pay attention not only to the maximum measurement length, but also to the minimum
Accuracy of readings or error. Everything is simple here: the more expensive the rangefinder, the lower the error rate. The accuracy of the readings also depends on the distance being measured, and the greater it is, the correspondingly higher the error. Devices from the inexpensive category up to 5-6 thousand rubles have error parameters that range from 1.5 to 3 mm. Expensive models have error parameters of up to 0.5-1 mm
The functionality of the tool - the more options (various calculations, calculations, calculations), the more expensive the device. The simplest models are only capable of measuring distances up to 20-30 meters, and they usually cost no more than 3-4 thousand rubles. More expensive ones measure lengths up to 100 meters, and at the same time they are able to independently perform calculations. The most advanced models not only measure long distances up to 300 meters, but they are also capable of calculating the area of triangles, calculating the coordinates of points, the length of curved sections, etc.

Whether you need the most expensive and advanced rangefinder, you have to decide for yourself. It all depends on the purpose for which the measuring instrument is purchased. If you only work indoors, then a regular model will suffice, but if the field of activity is related to geodetic or engineering measurements, then you should pay attention to models whose cost starts from 15 thousand rubles.

Learning to use a laser rangefinder correctly

It's time to figure out how to properly operate a laser distance meter. Each device model comes with instructions that will not only teach you how to use the tool correctly, but will also help you understand the functionality. The general picture of how to use a laser tape measure to determine length is as follows:

Initially the device turns on. The devices operate from autonomous power sources, which can be ordinary AA batteries or lithium-ion batteries. The rangefinder is turned on by pressing the power button
After switching on, the display will light up. Using the control buttons, you should set the appropriate measurement mode. On conventional devices you need to select a unit of measurement
Install the device at the first point from which measurements need to be taken. To do this, all units have a special mark that you need to use when taking measurements.
As soon as the device is installed at the first point and directed towards the surface, the distance to which needs to be determined, all that remains is to press the button to start the calculations
Within 2-3 seconds the relevant information will be displayed on the screen

When using the device, one must take into account such a parameter as temperature conditions. For rangefinders used outdoors, this is not as important as for indoor devices. It is recommended to carry out measurements at positive temperatures, as well as with sufficient lighting.

If measurements are taken outdoors, then a number of recommendations must be taken into account:

It is better to take measurements in cloudy weather, as bright sunlight will distort the measurements.
It is not recommended to carry out work in heavy fog, dusty air or gas contamination.
The rangefinder should be secured to a tripod when used in windy conditions. If you hold the device in your hands, even the slightest vibrations will reduce the quality of measurements

When using instruments, it is necessary to take into account that models intended for indoor measurements are not intended for outdoor use, therefore any factors such as rain or dust can lead to accelerated failure of the instrument. Laser rangefinders from 100 to 300 meters can be used to determine distances indoors.

To summarize, it must be said that you can do without a tool such as a laser rangefinder, but the measuring work will take a long time and with great physical effort. Working with devices requires compliance with the following factors:

The instrument should be stored in a dry and warm place
If the device uses a lithium-ion battery, you must ensure that it is always charged
Physical impact on the instrument, that is, hitting it, pressing it down, etc., should not be allowed.
Do not direct the laser beam into the eyes of humans or animals. This can cause blurred vision and burns.

The slightest damage or impact to the instrument may cause malfunctions and an increase in error. To check the error of the device, it is necessary to measure the measured distance with a mechanical tape measure. By choosing the right laser rangefinder, you can make measuring work easier.

Publications on the topic

Why choose a rotary level for construction...

The ability of electromagnetic radiation to propagate at a constant speed makes it possible to determine the distance to an object. Thus, with the pulse ranging method, the following relationship is used:

L = ct/2,

Where L is the distance to the object,
- c is the speed of radiation propagation,
- t is the time it takes for the impulse to travel to the target and back.

Consideration of this relationship shows that the potential accuracy of range measurement is determined by the accuracy of measuring the time it takes for the energy pulse to travel to the object and back. It is clear that the shorter the impulse, the better.

The task of determining the distance between the rangefinder and the target comes down to measuring the corresponding time interval between the probing signal and the signal reflected from the target. There are three methods for measuring range depending on the type of modulation of laser radiation used in the rangefinder: pulse, phase or pulse phase.

The essence of the pulse ranging method is that a probing pulse is sent to the object, which also starts a time counter in the range finder. When the pulse reflected by the object reaches the rangefinder, it stops the counter. Based on the time interval (delay of the reflected pulse), the distance to the object is determined.

With the phase ranging method, laser radiation is modulated according to a sinusoidal law using a modulator (an electro-optical crystal that changes its parameters under the influence of an electrical signal). Typically a sinusoidal signal with a frequency of 10...150 MHz (measuring frequency) is used. The reflected radiation enters the receiving optics and photodetector, where the modulating signal is released. Depending on the distance to the object, the phase of the reflected signal changes relative to the phase of the signal in the modulator. By measuring the phase difference, the distance to the object is determined.

The most popular models of laser rangefinders for hunting among our customers:

Use of laser rangefinders for military purposes.

Laser ranging is one of the first areas of practical application of lasers in foreign military equipment. The first experiments date back to 1961, and now laser rangefinders are used in ground-based military equipment (artillery, tanks), and in aviation (rangefinders, altimeters, target designators), and in the navy. This equipment has been combat tested in Vietnam and the Middle East. Currently, a number of rangefinders are adopted in the armies of a number of countries.

The first laser rangefinder, the XM-23, was tested in Vietnam and adopted by the US Army. It was designed for use in forward observation posts of ground forces. The radiation source in it was a laser with an output power of 2.5 W and a pulse duration of 30 ns. Integrated circuits were widely used in the design of the rangefinder. The emitter, receiver and optical elements are mounted in a monoblock, which has scales for precise reading of the azimuth and elevation angle of the target. The rangefinder was powered by a 24V nickel-cadmium battery, providing 100 range measurements without recharging.

One of the first production models is a Swedish rangefinder designed for use in control systems of onboard ship and coastal artillery. The design of the rangefinder was particularly robust, which made it possible to use it in difficult conditions. The rangefinder could be interfaced, if necessary, with an image intensifier or television sight. The operating mode of the rangefinder provided for either measurements every 2 s for 20 s, or every 4 s for a long time.

Since the early 70s, laser rangefinders have been installed on foreign tanks. The installation of laser rangefinders on tanks immediately attracted the interest of foreign weapons developers. This is explained by the fact that on a tank it is possible to introduce a rangefinder into the tank’s fire control system, thereby increasing its combat qualities. Compared to optical ones, they have a number of advantages: high speed, automated process of entering the measured range into sighting devices, high measurement accuracy, small size, weight, etc. For this, the AN/VVS-1 rangefinder was developed in the USA for the M60A tank. It did not differ in design from the laser artillery rangefinder on the ruby, however, in addition to issuing range data on a digital display, it had a device that provided range input into the calculating device of the tank’s fire control system. In this case, the range could be measured both by the gunner and the tank commander. The rangefinder operating mode is 15 measurements per minute for one hour.

Laser rangefinders installed on modern tanks allow you to measure the range to a target ranging from 200 m to 8,000 m (on American and French tanks) and from 200 to 10,000 m (on British and West German tanks) with an accuracy of 10 m. Most active elements of laser rangefinders currently installed on Western-made tanks and infantry fighting vehicles are based on a garnet crystal with an admixture of neodymium (the active element is a crystal of yttrium-aluminum garnet Y3A15O3, into which neodymium ions Ш3+ are introduced as active centers). These lasers generate radiation at a wavelength of 1.06 microns. There are also laser rangefinders in which the active element is a pink ruby crystal. Here the base is an aluminum oxide crystal Al2O3, and the active elements are chromium ions Cr3*. Ruby lasers generate radiation at a wavelength of 0.69 microns.

Recently, carbon dioxide laser rangefinders have begun to be used on foreign combat vehicles. In a CO2 laser, in a gas-discharge tube there is a mixture consisting of carbon dioxide (CO2), molecular nitrogen (N), and various small additives in the form of helium, water vapor, etc. The active centers are CO2 molecules. The advantage of the carbon dioxide laser is that its radiation (wavelength 10.6 microns) is relatively safe for vision and provides better penetration through smoke and fog. In addition, a constant-wave laser operating at this wavelength can be used to illuminate a target when working with a thermal imaging sight.

The rapid development of microelectronics has ensured a reduction in the weight and dimensions of laser rangefinders, which has made it possible to create portable rangefinders. The Norwegian laser rangefinder LP-4 turned out to be very successful. It had an optical-mechanical shutter as a Q-switch. The receiving part of the rangefinder is also the operator’s sight. The diameter of the optical system is 70 mm. The receiver is a portable photodiode. The counter is equipped with a range gating circuit, which operates at the operator's setting from 200 to 3000 m. In the optical viewfinder circuit, a protective filter is placed in front of the eyepiece to protect the eye from the influence of its laser when receiving a reflected pulse. The emitter and receiver are mounted in one housing. The target elevation angle is determined to ~25 degrees. The battery provided 150 range measurements without recharging, its weight was only 1 kg. The rangefinder was purchased by Canada, Sweden, Denmark, Italy, and Australia.

Portable laser rangefinders were developed for infantry units and forward artillery observers. One of these rangefinders is designed in the form of binoculars. The radiation source and receiver are mounted in a common housing with a six-fold monocular optical sight, in the field of view of which there is a light display of LEDs, clearly visible both at night and during the day. The laser uses yttrium aluminum garnet as a radiation source, with a lithium niobate Q switch. This provides a peak power of 1.5 MW. The receiving part uses a dual avalanche photodetector with a broadband low-noise amplifier, which makes it possible to detect short pulses with low power. False signals reflected from nearby objects are eliminated using a range gating circuit. The power source is a small-sized rechargeable battery that provides 250 measurements without recharging. The electronic units of the rangefinder are made on integrated circuits, which made it possible to increase the weight of the rangefinder together with the power source to 2 kg.

The next stage in the military use of laser rangefinders is their integration with the infantryman’s individual small arms.

An example is the F2000 assault rifle (Belgium). Instead of a sight, the F2000 can be equipped with a special fire control module, which includes a laser rangefinder and a ballistic computer. Based on the data on the range to the target, the computer sets the aiming mark of the sight both for firing from the machine gun itself and from the under-barrel grenade launcher (if installed).

The American OICW (Objective Individual Combat Weapon) system is an attempt to dramatically increase the effectiveness of the infantryman's weapons. The development is currently at the prototyping stage. The start of production is planned for 2008, entry into service - for 2009. According to current plans, there will be 4 OICWs per infantry squad. The OICW is a modular design consisting of three main modules: the "KE" (Kinetic Energy) module, which is a slightly upgraded Heckler-Koch G36 rifle; The "HE" (High Explosive) module, which is a self-loading 20mm magazine-fed grenade launcher, installed on top of the "KE" module and using a trigger shared with the "KE" module for firing; and finally, a fire control module, which includes day/night television sights, a laser rangefinder and a ballistic computer, which automatically sets the aiming mark in the lens in accordance with the range to the target, and is also used for programming remote fuses of 20mm grenades. Before firing, based on data from a laser rangefinder, the grenade fuse is programmed to detonate in the air at a given range, which ensures that hidden targets are hit by shrapnel from above or from the side. Determining the range for remote detonation is carried out by counting the revolutions made by the grenade in flight.

Every professional builder is well aware that for high-quality work to be completed, measurements cannot be avoided. At the moment, experts are not limited to just using a regular roulette. They use this modern device, like a laser rangefinder.

Using it, any builder has the opportunity to easily and quickly carry out absolutely any measurements. It should be noted that manufacturers are constantly refining this device, introducing various improvements to it. This makes it more convenient for use by construction industry professionals.

Range finder device

Most models, regardless of manufacturer, weigh 200 grams. When using a laser tape measure, a professional builder has the opportunity to make accurate measurements. Although there is a deviation, its magnitude is small. The device can be used not only when performing interior work indoors, but also in open areas. Using this device, it is also possible to perform measuring work in rooms that have a complex layout.

The construction laser rangefinder includes the following components:

on/off button;
reflector;
display;
tripod;
sight;
emitter;
microprocessor;
software;
spirit level;
glasses.

We will talk in detail about the most important elements of this device below.

Frame. In most cases, the main material for its manufacture is high-strength plastic. In addition, rubber and latex stakes are used. Thanks to them, damage to the housing is eliminated when accidental falls devices. Manufacturers equip modern models of rangefinders with lenses with an anti-fog effect. They also come with a case, thanks to which the device is reliably protected from dust and dirt. Increased humidity conditions and temperature changes a modern and high-quality rangefinder is not scary. However, when planning to buy such a device, you need to be prepared for the fact that you will have to pay serious money for it.

Emitter. It is the part of the device from which the laser beam emanates directly.

Reflector. This element of the device is an optical filter that receives a light beam returning after reflection from an obstacle.

Microprocessor. Through this component, the light signal is converted into a digital signal for subsequent processing using a program and displaying the necessary data on the screen. What software will be installed in the device largely depends on what the laser rangefinder is intended for. An ordinary household appliance has among its main functions the measurement, addition and subtraction of distances. Still modern devices can be used for area calculation and volumes of premises and accurate determination of the height of buildings.

Tripod. It is used to ensure that the installation of the device before carrying out measuring work is as reliable as possible.

Visir. It is used for aiming direction laser beam onto an object.

In modern models of measuring instruments, the scope has a magnification of 7-10 times, which ensures good visibility conditions for taking measurements.

Spirit level. This is a level built into the fixture. Its presence allows you to position the laser as accurately as possible. distance meter, without using any other devices to solve this problem.

When purchasing a rangefinder, you should be aware that only one person can operate it.

Laser rangefinders come in the following types:

household;
professional.

The former are used to measure distances up to 60 m, the latter - from 60 to 260 m. There are certain differences between these types of devices in terms of measurement error. The laser beam emanating from the rangefinder emitter may have different lengths and power. Typically they are 650 nm and 1 mW. Depending on the chosen model, such equipment can have from 2 to 4 points for reading the light beam.

Additional functions

To make using the rangefinder as comfortable as possible for the consumer, the device is equipped with additional functions. If you need equipment that you will use exclusively at home, then in this case you should not purchase a device equipped with any complex functions. But for specialists who are involved in construction and are forced to take measurements every day, the presence of additional functions will make it easier to complete such work.

Of course, it should be understood that the presence of complex functions in the device increases the cost of the device. Advanced devices, which are an ideal choice for builders, are offered in stores from 5 thousand rubles. Of course, you can find devices that belong to the budget class. However, at a low price, their quality is appropriate.

In its equipment, the rangefinder may have the following option: thermometer. The need for its presence lies in the fact that it allows for the analysis of errors that arise when carrying out measurement work in the open air.

For specialists, when using the device, the choice of measurement system is of great importance. In its equipment, such a device may have a reflective panel, with which you can check the results of the measurements taken. Also, modern models intended for specialists are equipped with automatic device, which allows you to disable the rangefinder. Along with it there is a battery charging indicator.

The presence of additional mathematical functions in the rangefinder is a necessity if high-precision work is not carried out or if there is a large volume of measurement work being carried out. Models that are equipped with similar functions are required by engineers and foremen, as well as surveyors.

Tracking. It is a program that is used to distance calculations to an obstacle during continuous movement of the device. Measurements are taken every second and stored in the device’s memory with the possibility of subsequent analysis and display of the necessary data on the display. Thanks to such a program, you can get the most accurate measurement results.

For measuring work carried out in the dark, the devices are equipped with a display backlight or are equipped with an audible signal. Devices that are designed for use in such environments quite often have targets. They have a light and a dark side. Its sides react differently to light. On a dark surface it is completely absorbed, and on a light surface it is reflected well.

Features of devices

In rooms where there are conditions of limited illumination, moderate humidity, clean air and sufficiently warm, a laser rangefinder is the optimal choice for measuring distances. When using the device, there is nothing to the movement of the beam emanating from the emitter shouldn't interfere. If these conditions are met, then the quality of the measurements performed will be maximum, and errors will be minimized.

If we talk about the essence of the laser rangefinder, it is as follows:

To carry out measurements, it is necessary to point a light beam emanating from the rangefinder at the object.
When the light reaches its surface, it begins to return to the reflector.
From there, the data on the measured distance goes into the program and is then displayed on the display. The device takes no more than 4 seconds to perform calculations.

Operating procedure

The first step is to turn on the device. Next, you need to select a starting point. After this, you need to decide on the unit of measurement. Then the specialist must install the device evenly. Now you can take measurements. Ultimately, we get the result we need on the screen.

If measurements using a laser rangefinder are carried out in domestic conditions, then no serious problems arise with this. A much more difficult task is to perform geodetic measurements in construction conditions over long distances. To ensure high quality work, the presence of a powerful radiation source is of great importance. When using the device, you should use a tripod to secure the laser tape measure and then fix it in a horizontal position. The presence of such a device will help to avoid errors when taking measurements.

Review of the best devices

In order to understand which rangefinders are the best, you should read reviews of current models present on the Russian market. To use this equipment for domestic purposes, you can choose products from the following companies: Condrotol; ADA; Hammer; RGK; X-Line.

Devices that are offered at a high price belong to the group semi-professional and professional. They are mainly produced by the following companies: Leica; Makita; Bosh. The best rangefinder models will be discussed below.

The best household rangefinders

Bosh DLE 40. This device from a well-known manufacturer is used for measuring distances indoors. It has a range of about 40 m, and during operation there is a maximum error of 1.5 mm. Using the additional functions that are built into this device, you can calculate area and volume. Among the advantages of this equipment are its compact size, optimal measurement accuracy, and high reliability. The cost of this device in stores is 4990 rubles.

Gravizappa DSL 60 (Hammer). The device body is made of high quality plastic. This model has dust protection and is also reliably protected from moisture. Using the device, you can take measurements at a distance of up to 60 m. The error when using this equipment is 2 mm. There are no serious difficulties when installing this model on a tripod. It is equipped with a large set of additional functions.

When using this rangefinder, the following point must be taken into account: it can only be used at above-zero temperatures. The device comes with a case and a strap, which allows you to wear the device on your hand. The price tag for this device is 5900 rubles.

The best professional devices

Leica Disto D2. One of the advantages of this device is that it has small dimensions of 4x11 cm with a thickness of 2 cm. The display is quite informative, and the information appearing on it is easy to read. Using this professional device, you can carry out measuring work at a distance of up to 60 m. The device is equipped with a large number of functions and has an active scale. Up to 10 measurements can be stored in its memory. The equipment can only be used at positive temperatures. You will have to spend 6,500 rubles to purchase this device.

Bosh GLM 250 V. F. This device belongs to the group of professional equipment and allows you to take measurements at a distance of up to 250 meters. When taking measurements, the error does not exceed 1 mm. The device has a rubberized body and a membrane keyboard. It is equipped with a built-in level and sight.

The presence of a large lens in this device ensures maximum measurement accuracy. After turning off the device, up to 30 measurements taken are stored in memory. This device is universal and can be used to measure distances not only indoors, but also outdoors. The cost of the device is 11,840 rubles.

All laser rangefinders operate on the same principle. However, they may differ in manufacturer, measurement accuracy, range, and operating features. All these points influence their final cost. When choosing a suitable rangefinder model, you must first of all decide for what purpose this equipment will be used. Based on the parameters that are important to you, you should look for a suitable device model. This will allow you to quickly and correctly select the necessary device, which will ensure quality and comfort when performing measurement work.