Comparison Bosch GLM 50-27 CG Professional 0601072U01 vs Bosch GLM 120 C Professional 0601072F01

The range at which the device remains fully operational without the use of additional receivers (see below); in other words, the radius of its action without auxiliary devices.

In some models, a range may be specified that shows the minimum ( 3 cm, 5 cm) and maximum measurement ranges. But in most cases, only the maximum value is indicated.

The specific meaning of this parameter is determined by the type of instrument (see above). So, for optical levels, the measurement range is the greatest distance at which the operator can normally see the divisions of a standard leveling staff. For laser levels, this parameter determines the distance from the device to the surface on which the mark is projected, at which this projection will be easily visible to the naked eye; and in rangefinders we are talking about the greatest distance that can be measured. Typically, the measurement range is indicated for ideal conditions - in particular, in the absence of impurities in the air; in practice, it may be less due to dust, fog, or vice versa, bright sunlight "overlapping" the mark. At the same time, tools of the same type can be compared according to this characteristic.

Note that it is worth choosing a device according to the range of action, taking into account the features of the tasks that are planned to be solved with its help: after all, a large measurement range usually significa...ntly affects the dimensions, weight, power consumption and price, but it is far from always required. For example, it hardly makes sense to look for a powerful laser level at 30-40 m if you need a device for finishing work in standard apartments.

The number of reference points provided in the rangefinder (see “Type”).

The reference point is called “conditional zero” - the point from which the device begins to measure distance. If the device states only one reference point, then this is, as a rule, the rear edge of the case. However, there are few such models on the market, mostly the simplest and most inexpensive rangefinders. Devices with two such points are much more popular - usually the rear and front edges of the case. There are also more advanced options - three or even four reference points. In the first case, the role of an additional conventional zero is played by either a folding stop bracket or a mounting point on a tripod; and the second usually provides both a bracket and a tripod socket.

In any case, a larger number of reference points provides more measurement possibilities, but increases the cost of the device.

The wavelength of the radiation emitted by the LED of the level or rangefinder; this parameter determines primarily the colour of the laser beam. The most widespread in modern models are LEDs with a wavelength of about 635 nm — at a relatively low cost, they provide bright red radiation, giving a well-visible projection. There are also green lasers, usually at 532 nm — the marks from them are even better visible, but such LEDs are quite expensive and rarely used. And radiation with a wave longer than 780 nm belongs to the infrared spectrum. Such a laser is invisible to the naked eye and is poorly suited for leveling, but it can be used in rangefinders — of course, with a viewfinder (see "Type" for more details).

The color of the laser beam emitted by the device.

Red lasers are the most popular in our time: they are relatively inexpensive, while they are quite effective and functional, and also quite noticeable on most surfaces. In turn, green lasers are better visible to the human eye (with the same emitter power); however, they are noticeably more expensive than red ones, consume more energy and have a shorter service life, and therefore are much less common.

Blue lines are rarely seen in laser instruments. Their competitive advantage over traditional green and red lasers is their high brightness, which ensures excellent visibility of the beams on many surfaces, incl. when doing outdoor work.

In some devices, you can find two types of lasers at once - both red and green. As a rule, these are levels with several projections, where green is used to build planes, and red is used for point projections.

A design feature found in rangefinders — mainly laser ones.

The position bracket is a special stop on the body of the device, designed for convenience when measuring distances in some situations. This stop is one of the reference points — that is, by setting the appropriate settings, you can measure the distance not from the front or rear edge of the case, but from the bracket. This is useful, in particular, when measuring the distance from various edges — door and window openings, the edges of countertops and borders, etc.: in such situations, it can be convenient to rest the bracket on the starting point of measurement.

The functions of the rangefinder allow you to more comfortably perform work and not calculate various mathematical formulas, but with one button to get the result after the measurements have been taken. Among such assistants there are area / volume measurement, indirect measurements (Pythagorean theorem), tilt angle measurements, height measurement, trapezoid measurement, addition / subtraction, min. / maximum values, continuous measurement (tracking), countdown timer, layout mode, painter mode, memory of the last measurements and others. More about them:

— Measurement of area/volume. Built-in software tool for measuring the area and / or volume of premises or large objects. This function works as follows: the user only needs to measure the length, width, and for volume, also the height of the object, after which the rangefinder will independently multiply the received data and display the final result.

— Indirect measurements (Pythagorean theorem). A function that allows you to determine the length of one of the sides of a right triangle from its othe...r two sides. One of its most popular uses is to measure the height of buildings, walls, poles, and other objects without having to approach them. To do this, you need to place the rangefinder at ground level and measure two distances from this point: to the foot of the object, horizontally (one of the legs) and to the top of the object (hypotenuse). Based on the Pythagorean theorem, the device will automatically calculate the length of the second leg - that is, in this case, the measured height.

— Measuring the angle of inclination. A feature that turns the rangefinder into an advanced level. When it is turned on, it is enough to attach the device with its side to an inclined surface or other similar object - and the built-in sensor will automatically determine the angle of inclination, displaying it on the display.

- Height measurement. A special mode for measuring the height of various objects. Note that in many devices this function is actually performed by indirect measurements according to the Pythagorean theorem (see above). Therefore, the possibility of measuring height is indicated mainly in tech models that have more advanced capabilities for such measurements. A typical example is an extended version of the Pythagorean theorem, which is used when a rangefinder is mounted on a tripod at a certain height from the ground. With this placement, to measure the height, you need to take three measurements: the distance to the foot of the object (the rangefinder will be tilted down), to the object horizontally and to its top. According to the data received, the device will build two triangles, perform the necessary calculations and give the final height value.

- Measuring the trapezoid. A function that allows you to determine the length of the fourth side and the total area of the figure from three sides of a rectangular trapezoid. It is mainly used to calculate the area of walls and facades in houses with sloped, gable and other similar roofs. If the upper part of the wall has a slope to one side, to determine the area, it is enough to measure the length of the base and the height of the two sides adjacent to the edges of the roof. If the upper part of the wall adjoins a gable roof, the wall must be divided into two trapeziums and measured using the same procedure; a similar method can be used with roofs of more complex shape, due to which the upper side of the wall looks like a broken line.

- Addition / subtraction. Possibility to sum the results of measurements, as well as to subtract one result from another. One of the simplest computing functions - which, nevertheless, can make life much easier for the user.

— Min. / maximum values. In this mode, the device takes a whole series of measurements at a short interval, and then displays the smallest or largest of the obtained values. As a rule, modern rangefinders provide for both formats of operation (both minimum and maximum), which is why they are combined into one function. However, the meaning of these options is different. So, the maximum value allows, among other things, to accurately determine the size of the room: it is enough to place the device in the corner, turn on the appropriate mode and slowly draw the laser horizontally in the region of the opposite corner; the largest distance obtained will be the length of the size. In turn, the minimum value can be useful, for example, to measure the length of the perpendicular to the wall; the measurement technique here is similar, and the smallest number obtained will just correspond to the length of the perpendicular.

— Continuous measurement (tracking). In this mode, the device continuously takes measurements at a sufficiently high frequency (usually 1 - 2 times per second), displaying the corresponding results on the display. This format of work is also called "roulette mode", it allows you to constantly track the distance from the rangefinder to a specific object. This can be useful, for example, if you need to accurately measure the distance from a wall, pole or other landmark: instead of taking several measurements, trying to “get” the device into the right position, just turn on tracking and move the rangefinder until the desired distance value is not displayed.

- Countdown timer. A function that allows you to automatically take measurements after a specified period of time. A kind of analogue of shooting on a timer in cameras: just point the device at the desired point, turn on the countdown - and at the end of it the device will work itself. The countdown is mainly used to eliminate the twitching of the body, which inevitably occurs when measuring manually (at the touch of a button); this is especially useful for high precision measurements and/or when using the instrument from a tripod or other stand.

- Markup mode. A mode that allows you to divide a particular segment into sections of a certain length - for example, under posts for a fence. The specific implementation and capabilities of this mode may be different, these nuances should be clarified in the instructions for a particular device. So, in some devices, you can measure the total length of the segment, set the number of identical sections - and the electronics will calculate the length of each part. In others, you can manually enter the length of the segment, or even several options for their length at once (for example, the distance from the starting point to the first mark and further gaps between marks). In any case, in the marking mode, the rangefinder works in the same way as the tracking described above - constantly taking measurements and displaying the current result on the display. And when measuring, the device must be smoothly moved along the marked line; when the next mark is reached, a signal will be given.

- Painter mode. A mode designed to calculate the total area of walls (internal in the room or external in the entire building). Such an opportunity is especially convenient for painting work (hence the name), as well as other similar tasks - wallpapering, laying tiles, external insulation, etc. The “painter mode” is implemented, as a rule, as follows: using the device, the master first measures the total perimeter of the walls, then their height (or vice versa), after which the electronics automatically calculates and gives the final value.

— Memory of the last measurements. The ability to save the results of the last few measurements in the memory of the device. In most models with this function, the memory of the last measurements is included initially, the user does not need to specifically change any settings. The convenience of such a memory is obvious: it allows, if necessary, to return to previous results and clarify a particular value without repeating the measurement. It is only necessary to bear in mind two points. Firstly, the number of memory cells can be different - as a rule, it is in the range from 20 to 100 and is indicated here, right under the words "memory of the last measurements." Secondly, when these cells overflow, the newest results are automatically overwritten in place of the oldest ones; and such a function as protecting individual cells from overwriting is usually not found in laser rangefinders (although exceptions are possible - this point should be clarified in the documentation for a particular device).

- Calculator. A traditional calculator that allows you to perform various calculations at the request of the user. These can be both operations with data obtained during measurements, and operations with numbers entered manually.

— Horizontal mode Smart. "Smart" mode, which allows you to measure and calculate a whole range of dimensions and angles, literally on the spot. A typical example of the implementation of Smart looks like this: a rangefinder from the same point measures two distances to a wall or other similar object - one is the smallest (along the perpendicular), and the second to a certain point “nearby”. After that, based on the received data, the device calculates the angle of rotation and the distance between the points. Other, more specific functions are also possible.

— Measurement of inclined objects. Various additional functions related to the measurement of inclined objects (in addition to determining the angle of inclination described above). The specific set of such capabilities may vary; they should be specified separately.

We also note that in modern rangefinders there may be other possibilities, in addition to tech listed above.

The level of protection against harmful influences (in the first place — the penetration of foreign objects) that the body of the level / rangefinder provides in accordance with the IP standard. This standard describes two separate characteristics — protection against solid objects and against water. They are designated respectively by the first and second digit after the IP index; the higher the number, the higher the degree of protection.

Considering that levels and rangefinders usually have to work on construction sites where there is a lot of dust, the minimum level of protection against solid objects for such tools is the fifth. It allows some dust to get inside, but in such a way that it does not affect the performance of the device. The maximum level of dust resistance is 6, which implies complete protection from solid particles.

The second characteristic, protection against moisture, in levels and rangefinders is usually indicated starting from level 4. Officially, it provides protection "against spray from any direction", in fact this means that it can be used in moderate rain with strong winds — a useful point in that if the tool is to be used outdoors. Level 5 allows operation during storms and downpours, a device of the sixth class can withstand being hit by a wave, the seventh — a short-term immersion under water up to 1 m, and the eighth — even a long stay under water. However, for a conventional construction tool, too high water resistance i...s usually not required.

Actually, the most popular option in modern construction tools is the IP54 class: it is quite enough even for work in bad weather, while such cases are relatively inexpensive. There are also more protected models, but less often.

It is also worth noting that a certain level of dust and water protection in itself is usually provided even in devices that do not have an IP marking. The absence of this index does not necessarily mean the absence of protection — it only says that the case has not been officially certified according to the IP standard. But if you need an additional guarantee of reliability, you should still pay attention to certified options.

The type and number of batteries used in the level/distance meter. All elements of standard sizes (AA, AAA, C, D, PP3) are available in two formats — disposable batteries and rechargeable batteries. This gives the user a choice: either buy relatively inexpensive batteries every time, or invest once in a rechargeable battery with a charger, and then simply charge the battery as needed. Branded batteries are, by definition, made only rechargeable, as are 18650 batteries.

Specific types of power today can be as follows:
— AA. A standard battery, known as a "finger battery". The power of these batteries is average, they can be used both in simple and quite advanced devices. This power supply is convenient due to the fact that AA batteries are very widespread and sold almost everywhere — due to this, finding and replacing them is usually not a problem.
— AAA. A smaller version of the AA element described above — almost identical in shape, but thinner and shorter. Such elements, known as "mini-finger" or "little fingers", have a rather low capacity and power, but are useful for portable devices, where compactness is crucial. They are also quite widespread.
— C. A cylindrical element, in the form of a rather thick "bar...rel" — with a length of 50 mm, the diameter is 26 mm. Due to its higher capacity and power than AA, it is better suited for advanced models with "long-range" lasers, but is less commonly used and generally less common.
— D. The largest and most capacious type of standard batteries found in modern levels and distance meter: thickness and diameter are 62 and 34 mm, respectively. The main area of application for D batteries is powerful professional devices.
— Rechargeable battery. In this case, the tool is powered by an branded battery that does not belong to any standard size. This option is good because such batteries are initially created for a specific model of the level/distance meter and are supplied in the set (and in some models they are made non-removable); in addition, their specifications can significantly exceed those of standard elements of a similar size and weight. On the other hand, such power source is less convenient when the charge runs out at the wrong moment: the only way to remedy the situation is usually to recharge, and it takes quite a long time (whereas standard batteries can be replaced in just a minute).
– 18650. The name of these batteries comes from their dimensions: 18.6x65.2 mm, cylindrical, outwardly they resemble somewhat enlarged AA batteries, but they have an operating voltage of about 3.7 V and a higher capacity. In addition, all 18650 type batteries are by definition not disposable, but rechargeable batteries (lithium-ion type).

— PP3. 9-volt batteries of a spesific rectangular shape, with a pair of contacts on one of the ends. Due to the high operating voltage, they provide high power and actual capacity, so one such battery is usually enough for operation.

— LR44. Miniature batteries of "coin" type, 11.6 mm in diameter and 5.4 mm thick. Usually installed in sets of 3 and are used in compact low-power laser levels, for which small size is more important than power and capacity. Note that specifically the LR44 marking refers to relatively inexpensive alkaline batteries; more expensive and advanced silver-zinc power supplies are referred to as SR44, or 357.

— 23A12V. A rather rare option: cylindrical batteries (length 29 mm, diameter 10 mm) with a nominal voltage of 12 V.

Connector type for synchronization with a smartphone and a computer or for charging the battery of the device.

Many modern levels and rangefinders are equipped with USB ports. The type of this interface is specified in this paragraph, but the options can be as follows:

- microUSB. Quite old, but still a very popular connector for portable gadgets. Slightly smaller than USB-C, it has an asymmetrical shape and a one-sided design.

- USB-C. The newest type of miniature USB connectors. Ports of this type are convenient primarily due to the symmetrical design, which allows you to insert the plug in either direction (unlike earlier standards, including microUSB). In addition, through USB-C, it is easier to implement many advanced features, in particular, fast charging technologies; however, it all depends on the specific model of the device.

We also note that both types of connectors are universal standards, a huge number of chargers, cables and adapters are produced for them. The presence of a USB port provides very extensive opportunities for synchronizing the level and rangefinder with a computer or mobile gadgets. As a rule, to use the possibilities of such a connection, you need to install special software from the manufacturer's website. Specific connectivity options may vary. In particular, it is not uncommon to find the function of downloading data from saved measurements to a PC.

A...t the same time, USB is used to charge the battery in the level / range finder: for this purpose, you can use an adapter for an outlet or car cigarette lighter, a portable power bank, a USB connector of a computer or laptop, the same port in an extension cord or even a wall outlet, etc. It comes to the point that some devices with a USB interface are completely supplied without a charger, with only one cable: it is assumed that it is not difficult to find a power connector for such a cable in our time.