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Frequently Asked Questions

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Purchasing a Laser Measuring Device
Why do I need a laser distance measuring device?
What laser measuring device is right for me?
What specifications should I look for?
What are some of the features of the different laser measuring devices?
How does the Disto A6 differ from the Disto A5?

How does the Disto A6 differ from the Disto Plus?

What accessories are available for the different laser measuring devices?
What does Leica offer in terms of warranty for the Disto device?

Why do I need a laser distance measuring device?
Go to: 12 Reasons to Buy a Disto.

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What laser measuring device is right for me?
Choosing a laser distance measuring device is much like choosing a computer. First you need to determine how you intend to use it. Inside? Outside? For distances greater than 150 ft? If the use is expected to be more infrequent and in an environment where measurements will likely never exceed 150 feet and mostly indoors, a Disto A3 may be the right choice. For outside measurements in bright sunlight, the viewfinder is very helpful and a Disto Plus, Disto A5 or Disto A6 may be your choice. If you plan on using the device in conjunction with a computer where distance measurements are directly transmitted via the Bluetooth technology, the Disto Plus or Disto A6 is the device for you. Again, like buying a computer, develop an understanding for your needs and then select a laser distance measuring device that best meets those needs.

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What specifications should I look for?
Range: Range: Range is stated by the manufacture in feet or meters and is usually the maximum distance the unit will measure under ideal conditions to a reflective target. Ranges for devices currently on the market vary from 100 feet to 600 feet. Manufacturers do not normally specify the range without a reflective target plate, which varies according to the conditions. Practical range without a target plate is 50 feet on some older or less expensive models, while newer models such as the Disto A5, with Power Range technology, can usually measure up to 300 feet without a reflective target.

Accuracy: Accuracy is the degree of conformity of a measured or calculated value to its actual or specified value, or the maximum amount of deviation of the measured value from the actual physical length of the item being measured. Most true laser devices are accurate within +/- 1/8". The better models are accurate within +/- 1/16".

Size: Newer units are smaller and lighter with more features than were available in prior models. The smallest models, such as the Disto A3, have basic measurement features and fit easily in a shirt pocket.

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What are some of the features of the different laser measuring devices?
Please refer to our Disto Comparison Chart

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How does the Disto A6 differ from the Disto A5?
The main difference is that the Disto A6 has bluetooth data transfer capabilities, the Disto A5 does not. In addition, the Disto A6 is accurate to (+/-) 1/16", the accuracy of the Disto A5 is (+/-) 3/32". The A6 has blue trim, the A5 has red trim. For other details, please refer to our Disto Comparison Chart

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How does the Disto A6 differ from the Disto Plus?
New Leica Disto A6 features compared to the Leica DISTOTM plus
  • Free DISTO� transfer software can be used for data transfer with many different programs. It simulates entering values via keyboard while the DISTO� transfer runs unnoticed in the background. This software also works with the Disto Plus, and is available for free download.

  • Simpler handling with less keys for the BLUETOOTH � data transfer

  • Smaller size and ergonomic shape

  • Soft grip surface for better grip

  • Improved integrated optical viewfinder with crosshair, 2 times magnification

  • Optimized end piece with stable positioning bracket for measuring from flat surfaces, from an edge and from corners. An integrated sensor adjusts automatically the measuring reference.

  • New Units: mm, ft in 1/32

  • 6 digits: units are displayed in inches above 330ft

  • Improved ruler on the backside in cm and inch for measuring from 0 cm/inch.

  • Two different beep sounds for measuring from front and rear for easy identification

  • Reference from front switches automatically to rear after one measurement

  • Last 4 measuring values are visible in the display

  • Historical storage of 20 displays; additional information to measuring values is saved such as reference setting, function?

  • Increased time span until automatic switch off (device off after 6 min, laser off after 3 min)

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What accessories are available for the different laser measuring devices?
Please refer to our Disto Accessories Page

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What warranties are offered?
Leica Geosystems DISTO� laser measurement devices come with a 2-year warranty against manufacturer''s defects. The Trimble HD150 comes with a one year warranty.

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