What are the primary types of laser level technologies?
- Manual Leveling Lasers
These lasers rely on tubular bubbles for leveling. You have to manually level the laser in both the X-axis and Y-axis and rely on the bubbles for accuracy. These lasers can achieve a maximum accuracy of 1/8" at 100’. Most of them, however, are in the ¼" at 100 feet.
- Semi Self-Leveling Lasers
These lasers are self-leveling within a range. They are equipped with a compensator that self levels the instrument within its self-leveling range. To get to that range, the laser is equipped either with a circular bubble with a bulls eye, or electronic lights that turn green when you reach the self leveling range. These lasers are very accurate and have a shut off feature if the laser is bumped or goes out of the self-leveling range. They can achieve accuracies of at least 1/8" at 100 feet.
- Fully Self-Leveling Lasers
These lasers are equipped with an electronic level vial and servo motors. The servo motors level the instrument electronically and when it is level, the laser starts spinning. They are the easiest to use and can achieve accuracies of up to 1/32" at 100 feet. Most of them are equipped with a shutoff feature if the laser is bumped or disturbed.
Questions you need to consider before making a purchase
- What type of accuracy do you need?
Lasers are capable of achieving accuracies between ¼" to 1/32" at 100 feet.
- What benefit will a laser offer to me?
If a laser speeds up production, frees up a man or allows you to do a better job, it might be of benefit to you.
- Do you need a visible beam laser or an invisible beam with a detector?
Normally visible beam lasers are good for interior applications. However, when using a laser detector, they can be used outdoors as well
- Do you need to check level only or do you need to be able to check plumb also or establish a vertical line?
You need both horizontal & vertical capabilities.
- Do you need the laser to be able to do a 90-degree angle for layout?
You need vertical, horizontal and plumb capabilities.
- What additional needs can this laser assist me with now and in the future?
Just as in any tool purchase, you should consider the additional uses that you might have for the laser you are looking at. If your needs change on a regular basis , it might benefit you to with more capabilities today rater an additional laser later on.
- Should I rent?
If you only have a one time need and would not be using the laser again you might want to consider a rental.
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