Laser range finders use laser beams to determine distance to objects. Most commonly, this device operates on the time-of-flight principle by sending laser pulses towards their targets and measuring how long it takes them to return as a reflection from them before returning back towards its sender.
Laser range finders have many uses in applications including geodesy, sports, hunting, military operations and construction. Capable of measuring distances with high accuracy - typically 1-5mm per km - their accuracy may however be affected by environmental conditions like humidity, snowfall and dust which obstruct its signal transmission.
Laser range finders boast several advantages over other distance measuring devices, notably being fast and user-friendly - only needing one person for operation! Their long operating ranges (some can measure distances of 1500 meters!). Plus they are compact and portable making them suitable for field use.
When purchasing a laser range finder, it is crucial to keep in mind the following features: accuracy, operating range, ease of use and durability.
