Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: The L4.7, L4.7 Magnum, and L5 are described as self leveling or automatic. How come I have to turn leveling screws?

A: These models self level via wire hung compensators. These are gravity pendulum leveling mechanisms that must be rough leveled. Once the instrument is in its self leveling range, the compensator makes sure that the beam is level. The term "automatic" derives from automatic optical levels which employ compensators for self leveling. These auto levels also have to be rough leveled. Servo motor leveling systems have a wider self leveling range and allow the user to turn the laser on without having to turn leveling screws.

Q: Which self leveling system is better, servo motor or compensated?

A: Each system has its pluses and minuses. Servo systems have the appeal of driving the laser to level without the operator turning leveling screws. However, a compensated self leveling laser can be up and running just as fast as a servo system. Servo systems are more complex electronically, draw more power, and have been more prone to drift with temperature change. Well designed servo systems and compensated systems both provide accurate and reliable results. For grade checking and concrete work, compensated systems have been the mainstay for many years. If the laser is going to be used in a situation where it is inconvenient to turn leveling screws, (up on a 14' tripod for machine control), a servo system would be preferable. 

Q: Can I use a visible laser outdoors without a receiver?

A: A rotary laser will have to be used with a receiver outdoors in the sun. Safety regulations do not permit a beam powerful enough to be visible when rotating out in sunlight. If you stop the rotating beam and shine it onto a shaded target, you can use it as a reference, but this is not that convenient.

Q: What kind of working distance do your products have?

A: When paired with the R7 receiver, the L4.7 has a 1500’ working diameter, and the L4.7 Magnum and AS2 have a 2000’ working diameter. The L5 and L3 provide a 1000’ diameter when paired with the R5e receiver.

Q: How often should my laser be calibrated?

A: Lasers should be calibrated when they are not shooting their specified accuracy. We suggest checking calibration regularly, at least every 6 months, or immediately if the unit has been treated roughly.

Q: Can I dial a grade or slope into the laser?

A: You can with the AS2 and AS2 Magnum, you cannot with the L5, L4.7, or L4.7 Magnum. The L3 features a vial with markings for 1, 2, 3, or 4% slope.

Q: Where can I get my laser serviced?

A: Almost any laser or survey instrument service center can calibrate our lasers, or the user can do so if he/she so desires. Many of our 400+ dealers in the US have some service capabilities ranging form calibrating lasers up through full repairs.

Q: What kind of tripod do I need?

A: Our lasers fit tripods with a 5/8 x 11 coarse thread. Dome or flat head tripods can be used. A flat head tripod will allow the user to check calibration out in the field.

Q: Can the laser light hurt my eyes?

A: The maximum power output for any construction laser is less than 5 milliwatts. A milliwatt is one thousandth of a watt. No special precautions need be taken with an invisible beam laser. Visible beam lasers should be set so they are not flashing in anyone’s eyes because the light is very bright and can be annoying. Having the beam flash in one’s eyes occasionally will not do any damage, but will be irritating in the same fashion as a camera flash.

Q: Can your laser be used for turning angles?

A: Our visible beam L4.7 Magnum, L5 and L3 have fixed plumb spots that provide a 90 degree reference relative to the rotating beam when the laser is in its vertical mode. This is only useful indoors out of the sun. 

Q: Can I use a receiver to pick up the plumb spot?

A: Electronic laser receivers are looking for a laser spot flashing across their photocells and will not respond to a stationary laser spot. That is why they can be set off by a flashing strobe or emergency beacon. Even if the receiver could pick up a stationary beam, the spot will be extremely difficult to find at any substantial distance from the laser. 

Q: What happens if my laser is rained upon?