LaserbeamMeasurementDevice

While a laser distance measure tool is remarkably fast and efficient there are situations which will challenge any make or model. Let's start with the basics. The key to taking successful measurements with any laser distance measure product begins with aiming at a solid target. Attempting to measure highly reflective, porous, translucent, water covered or bright sunlight covered surfaces will be difficult. This is true of all laser distance measuring products and is not a defective issue. It is simply the nature of the product.

LaserDistance Meter 50m

Note: Exterior use may be limited based upon lighting conditions, temperature range and an optimal target surface to achieve accurate results outdoors. Unfavorable conditions such as direct sunlight, porous/unreflective surfaces or temperature conditions outside of specified range will deteriorate the effectiveness of the laser beam which could compromise the ability to take measurements in some situations.

LaserDistance Meter 100m

To explain in simple terms how these tools work: A laser beam is emitted from instrument and once it makes contact with a surface the beam is reflected back to the instrument. There is a lens that receives the reflected beam and determines (by the rate or speed of return) the distance of the surface or object. If this surface has poor reflective properties the return signal will be too weak for the instrument to calculate the distance. Likewise, if a surface has a highly reflective surface (or is in direct sunlight) the laser distance measure will not receive the sufficient return signal to determine a distance.

For more handy how-to's on using levels, measures and other tools from Johnson Level, check out our full collection of how-to guides.

Pythagoras is famous for creating the Pythagorean Theroem (a² + b² = c²). If you know 2 lengths (but not the third) this formula allows you to calculate a missing dimension of a triangle. There is a point to this so don't stop reading yet! The Johnson model 40-6001 is equipped with 3 Indirect Measuring Modes. Each works based on the Pythagoras equation. How you ask? If you are looking at a wall and you want to quickly estimate the height but don't have a ladder to climb to drop a tape to obtain the measurement. Simply choose the Indirect Measuring Mode you need, take the 2 (or 3) measurements required from where you stand and the laser distance measure will calculate the height of the wall for you. No need to do any math! This function is based off of a triangular dimension so Indirect Measuring can also calculate the width of a wall. You just need to position yourself accordingly.

LaserMeasure and Level tool

LaserDistancemeasurementdevice

As with any new technology, start off easy and work your way into more advanced measurements. Once you get comfortable with how the LDM operates you will naturally begin to trust the results. This instrument is designed to take accurate measurements and will meet your expectations if used properly. In other words, taking measurements in compromising settings (ie wet surfaces, porous surfaces, moving targets, temperature outside specified range, etc) may result in inaccurate measurements. If you are first time user start out using the product to take estimation measurements. If you don't think this measuring tool will be as accurate as your tape measure then double check your results against your tape. In no time at all, you will be impressed with the ease and accuracy of the Johnson 40-6001 laser distance measure's capabilities. One very important piece of advice is to ALWAYS take several controlled measurements (Of a known distance) to insure the tool is reading properly prior to taking critical measurements.

With a simple 1-2-3 measuring system (Point-Press-Done), the Johnson Laser Distance Measure is the right measuring instrument for any jobsite. It is capable of recording measurements to 1/32" for skilled trades people requiring a tight read. This tool is great for any estimating material list: trim, drywall, cabinetry, conduit, pipe, ducts, to exterior siding. A laser distance measure tool will help you get the job done faster and more accurately.