Frequently Asked Questions

Q:

Which Disto models can be used with the upgrade kit?

A:

The kit is specifically designed for the Leica Disto A3.

It will not work with any other Leica model.

The Stanley TLM 200 Laser Disto can be used in place of the A3 because it uses essentially the same internal hardware. However, using the TLM 200 is not recommended because of its poorer quality and limited functionality.

Q:

What is accuracy and repeatability of the device?

A:

Repeatability is about 0.2 degrees.

From the test I made so far, accuracy is about 0.5 degrees when properly calibrated. However, I do not have a calibrated environment to do precise accuracy measurements.

Q:

What is the distance range of the device?

A:

The range is limited by the A3 to 0.05m to 100m (0.2ft to 328ft). In contrast to many other Disto models, the upper limit is really reachable underground without using a target plate.

Q:

What is the battery lifetime?

A:

The upgrade board draws little power compared to the Disto itself (<10%).

I recommend to use AAA Lithium primary cells. They are expensive but last much longer than conventional batteries, especially at low temperatures.

I used my Disto for 14 day long survey trips and countless tests and demonstrations before the low battery marker appeared for the first time.

Q:

Is it possible to use rechargeable batteries?

A:

In principle, yes.

In practice, however, the AAA Ni-MH cells I tested are useless because they change their magnetic behavior continuously during charge and discharge. Here is the result of a series of measurements made in exactly the same direction over several charge/discharge cycles:

	Azimuth	Inclination
new batteries	289.0°	1.7°
after charge	287.4°	1.7°
after discharge	286.8°	1.7°
after charge	286.2°	1.7°
after discharge	285.3°	1.7°
after charge	284.8°	1.7°

Home Downloads Frequently Asked Questions Links