How to choose a laser range finder. Range finder laser: specifications and reviews

Today, the laser rangefinder is no longer a luxury, as it was literally 5-7 years ago, but a necessity. Without such a roulette it is difficult not only in professional construction, but also in the ordinary repair. In addition, today range finders use realtors, designers and even representatives of public services. Now the market has a huge number of roulettes, usually the range of measurement does not exceed 50 meters, but if you need it, you can find instruments for 70 and even 100 meters.

What are rangefinders and how to use them?

The range finder is a special device, usually ultrasonic, electronic or optical, which is used for contactless determination of the distance to the object. 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 is picked up by a special receiver. For example, phase range finders operate on the principle of a reflected and received phase signal. Information processing is carried out in meters, yards or feet. In addition, such a device can have a laser level. A range finder of this type will cost a bit more, but its functionality is higher. You can measure horizontal, vertical and inclined surfaces, as well as in hard-to-reach places. In this case, you do not need to be in the immediate vicinity of the object. The scope of their use is quite extensive, from construction to geodesy and cartography.

Range finder laser: consumer reviews

One can not ignore such an important aspect as the responses left by consumers. To date, rangefinders are quite popular, so they are bought by many. But the reviews are mostly based on which producer was preferred. So, Chinese counterfeits are not very popular and support. As experts write, the accuracy of such products is not encouraging. The best models of Chinese production are hardly suitable for small repairs at home. Consumers say that European models are much better, although somewhat more expensive. The greatest number of positive reviews is from the German company Bosch, which is the leader in the production of construction tools in Europe and the world. In any case, it is better to buy an expensive laser rangefinder, reviews about which are positive. 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 must make this or that purchase. First you need to decide, you need a professional or household roulette. If you buy a rangefinder to perform repairs at home, then it will be enough to be an average for the price of a household model. If you are professionally engaged in repairs, it makes sense to buy a multifunctional roulette. In the latter case, the acquisition will cost a lot, it must be remembered.

Another important criterion is the range of measurements. Professional models can operate at a distance of up to 200 meters, but in practice it is very rare to buy such a device. In most cases, a minimum range of 30-50 meters is sufficient. Do not overlook the functional saturation of the device, for example, the ability to calculate the area, remembering the information received (built-in memory), level, etc. Of course, we can not say about the manufacturer, because this is one of the most important moments.

Minimum required set of functions and device security

It is worthwhile to draw your attention to the fact that modern rangefinders have the ability not only to calculate the distance. For example, the simplest household models of the company "Bosch" are equipped with functions for calculating the area, addition and subtraction, etc. It is desirable that the device has a connector for the memory card, which is necessary to memorize the results. In principle, the range of functions of household range finders is approximately the same, that's why these roulettes are somewhat cheaper. Professional models are equipped with a timer, built-in bluetooth (for the possibility of data transfer to computers). In addition, it is possible to break down into segments and use the inclinometer. It can be said with great certainty that in 90% of cases a household appliance is sufficient. For example, the Bosch laser rangefinder, whose reviews we'll cover below, is famous for its well-protected body against moisture and dust. This is of great importance when working on dusty objects, in difficult weather conditions, etc.

Range finder laser Bosch: advantages and consumer reviews

As noted above, German products manufactured by this company are famous for their high quality of assembly. No exception and roulettes from the company "Bosch". Let's look at the model PLR 25 worth 6 thousand rubles. It is a domestic roulette with a range of 25 meters and a deviation of 2 millimeters. The device will calculate the volume, area, and also store the results. It is noteworthy that with a weight of only 180 grams, "Bosch" PLR 25 has a lot of features that are inherent in professional rangefinder models. The measuring time ranges from 0.5 to 4 seconds, depending on the working environment. The better lighting and less dust, the faster you will get results. It should be noted that there is a mode of saving energy, which consists in turning off the device after a few minutes of inactivity. In principle, the laser range finder Bosch PLR 25 is an excellent choice not only for amateurs, but also for professionals at a reasonable price. As for consumer feedback on this model, they are all positive. This is due not only to the affordable price with a large number of functions, but also the overall high quality of the assembly.

Review of Leica Disto D2

The laser rangefinder from this manufacturer has 5 stars for consumers. The tool is used for professional purposes, so it will cost at least 12,000 rubles. Roulette is very compact and weighs only 160 grams. It is noteworthy that this model is very accurate. The deviation does not exceed 1.5 millimeters. According to the product certificate, the range is about 60 meters, but the users on this account have a slightly different opinion. So, many people say that in a dark room you can measure at a distance of 30 meters, and in light on even smaller. To compensate for this disadvantage, many recommend buying a reflector. Please note that Disto is a laser rangefinder with a protected case and huge functionality. Here you add, subtract, determine the volume, area, sound signals for people with poor eyesight and much more. The ideal solution for professional use, for everyday life you can buy something simpler.

Advantages of laser roulettes

We have already said quite a lot that it is very convenient, fast, etc. But it's worth noting that the range finder is in most cases a necessity. For example, if you do not have the opportunity to work with a partner who would help to carry the roulette from one corner of the room to another, then your main assistant will be a laser tape measure. You will make measurements without being in the immediate vicinity of the desired object. With this in mind, you can say that alone you can easily measure what you can not get your hands on or even from the stairs. In addition, the speed and accuracy of this roulette is somewhat higher than the traditional one. Another question is which are better laser rangefinders. Laser roulettes from most European manufacturers deserve attention. As you can see, Bosch is doing very good quality instruments, but there are many others. Let's look at a few of them.

Popular brands

A little higher you can see two small surveys of popular range finders. It is these two manufacturers (Leica and Bosch) who are considered leaders all over the world. However, all the same companies are guided by the manufacture of a professional tool, so you can not always choose a home appliance. Although "Bosch" produces an impressive line of inexpensive rangefinders for home use. Nevertheless, not everyone has enough money to buy products from these manufacturers. For example, professionals very often buy rangefinders "Hilti", which are considered one of the most accurate. Prices for the best models start from 8 thousand rubles, and if it is a household model, then you will have enough to buy 5 thousand. But judging by the consumer feedback, for home repairs the best are the "Skil" devices. This roulette 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 range finder, the instruction should be in Russian. This is especially true of well-known brands. If this is a Chinese counterfeit, then speech about the guarantee and any instructions can not go. Most popular companies give a guarantee for several years on their rangefinders. Always pay attention to how well the housing is protected from moisture and dust. If you do work in the rain or snow, then this is especially true. If you are making a purchase for home use, do not prioritize the measurement range. In most cases, 20-40 meters is enough, but the availability of additional functions is quite important. It is not superfluous to have a level with which you can align the mounted 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 a pen and taking notes, especially since most of us are so used to it, and it's quite convenient.

It is useful to know everyone

There are several useful rules that anyone who works with a range finder should know. First, do not direct the laser beam over your eyes, as it can cause a retinal burn, especially if exposed for extended periods of time. Secondly, always try to install the device on a solid surface, preferably on a special tripod, so you increase the accuracy of the measurements. Always remember that direct sunlight falling on a laser beam can make it barely visible to the human eye. Although this does not affect the accuracy of the measurements, you can not see where the laser was directed.

Conclusion

So we figured out the question of rangefinders. As you can see, the device is very useful and necessary. This purchase will not be superfluous. In addition, there is no need to buy expensive models. It always makes sense to dwell on something average. This is for professionals that the laser rangefinder Robot 40, which is capable of providing high accuracy and measurement range (40 meters). For fans, inexpensive roulette of the company "Skil" or "Bosch" is suitable. The main thing is always to make a deliberate purchase, which you do not have to regret.