laser distance meter

What is a laser distance meter?

Simple, fast and extremely precise. These are the main reasons why many users nowadays are switching from meter sticks, tape measures and the like to laser distance meters. In addition, distance meters have many helpful functions such as automatic calculation of square meters, to name just one basic function. Laser distance meters are very precise and easy to use. The accuracy is between 1 and 2 mm depending on the device and is independent of the length of the measured distance.

Laser-Enrfernungsmesser hedue EM1		Einfache Handhabung und Menüführung

Technical structure and mode of operation of laser distance meters

To measure with a laser distance meter, a beam of light is sent from a laser transmitter. This light beam is reflected at the measuring point and collected and processed again in the receiver on the measuring device via a so-called converging lens. The laser distance meter determines the time required from transmission to arrival of the signal and thus determines the distance traveled. Some devices are also equipped with an inclination sensor, which can be used to indirectly determine length and height.

Aufbau von einem Laser-Entfernungsmesser		Laser-Sender und Sammellinse

Basic functions of laser distance meters

In addition to the simple measurement of distances, the laser distance meters have a variety of useful and advantageous functions. Thanks to an intuitive design and convenient menu navigation, the devices remain easy to use. From simple area and volume calculations to indirect height measurements and inclination measurements, the distance meters are almost all-rounders.

Indirekte Höhenmessung Foto: Leica Geosystems

Areas of application for laser distance meters

The laser distance meters can be used both indoors and outdoors, although special devices with a digital pointfinder are preferred for outdoor use. This allows measuring points to be aimed at reliably and precisely, even at great distances and in strong sunlight. Whether for measuring, checking or calibrating, the range of applications for these devices is extremely diverse.

Distanzmessung im Innenbereich		Distanzmessung im Außenbereich mit Zielsucher Foto: Leica Geosystems

Ultrasonic distance meter with laser aiming point

However, devices are also mistakenly referred to as laser distance meters, but at second glance they are not. Although these devices have a laser point for targeting the measuring points, the actual measurement is carried out using ultrasound, which has an effect on the accuracy of the measurements, among other things. Ultrasound spreads out in a cone shape. At a distance of 10 m, the ultrasonic cone reaches a diameter of 1.5 to 2.0 m. So you need a really large target. These devices only have an additional laser pointer built in, which is located approximately in the middle of the ultrasonic cone. Therefore, take a very close look when choosing a device.

Accessories and aids for laser rangefinders

For optimum reflection of the laser dot or in the absence of reference points, so-called target plates are used. For laser distance meters with a tilt sensor or digital pointfinder, we recommend using them with a suitable tripod. Alternatively, adapters are also available for these models, which can be used to attach the laser distance meters to tripods or plumb bobs.

Zieltafel GZM3 Foto: Leica Geosystems		Entfernungsmesser auf einem Adapter mit Feintrieb

Laser distance meter with interface for data transmission

We would like to highlight the models with a data interface via Bluetooth. With these devices, the measurement results can be easily and conveniently transferred to smartphones, tablets and laptops for further processing. With the corresponding free apps, for example, pre-prepared sketches or even photos can be dimensioned on the spot and then sent immediately by email. The new generation of distance meters has a USB interface for transferring photos, screenshots and, of course, measurement results. A few distance meters even have WLAN, which makes it possible to transfer measurement data in DXF format directly to a corresponding CAD program.

Datenübertragung via Bluetooth direkt an das Smartphone		Direktes Messen in das CAD-Programm über WLAN Foto: Leica Geosystems		Übertragung von Fotos und Messdaten über USB-Schnittstelle Foto: Leica Geosystems