Leica Disto FAQs
Leica Disto frequently asked questions
A selection of “Frequently Asked Questions” about our Leica DISTO ™products:
Does the Leica Disto measure in Metric or Imperial?
a. All the Leica Disto’s (A2,D3,A3, A5 and A6 and A8) have the option of displaying the readings in either feet or inches.
Do Leica Disto's work outside?
The A5, A6 and A8 have been designed work outdoors with an integral viewfinder. This enable the user to see the point of measurement over long distances and in bright sunlight. The A3 and D3 can be used for short distances outside, but are limited on how far you can see the laser beam.
Do the Leica Disto’s have a warranty?
Yes, all Leica Disto products come with a 3 Year Manufacturer backed warranty. Simply return them to us and we will replace the faulty device with a replacement device and deal with the repairs. (please contact us for the full returns policy)
Can you connect a Leica Disto to a PC or Hand Held computer?
The Leica Disto A6 has a Bluetooth connection to these devices. No other Leica Disto is capable of connection even with a cable. The PC or hand held device will need to be on site, as the Disto A6 has limited storage to the last 19 measurments.
What are the measuring ranges of the devices?
In summary: The Leica Disto A2 is 60 Metres (indoor only), A3 and D3 100 Metres, A5 and A6 and A8 are 200 Metres.
Can you measure areas and Volumes?
Yes the all of the Leica Disto laser measures the A2, A3, D3, A5 A6 and A8 all have the option to measure areas and volumes. All models except the Leica Disto A2 have the ability to see the breakdown measurements that make up the calculates area and volume.
How accurate is Leica DISTO™ at 0.5m, 1m to 200m?
The tolerance is not proportional to the measured distance, it is the same over the entire distance. However, over long distances, additional errors of +/-5 ppm (parts per million) (+/-0.5mm/100m) come into play.
Which is the best Disto for my needs?
Please call us on 0845 257 2188 and we would be pleased discuss your requirements and advise on the best device for your needs. We offer also a 30 day trial period. This will enable you to test the product in your normal working environment.
Do you get a carrying case with the Leica Disto?
YES, all Leica Disto’s supplied by us have a protective carrying case included. They also have batteries and a carrying loop.
I have purchase another measuring device (sonic) from the hardware / DIY store and find that it is very inaccurate, why is the Leica Disto different?
There are two types of devices on the market. Laser measuring and Sonic measuring devices. The Leica Disto is very accurate using pin point accurate laser light, the Sonic devices often found at DIY / Hardware use sound to measure the distances that has a greater level of inaccuracy, measures over shorter distances only and may easily offer false readings as the sound may bounce off objects or furniture.
I understand that the Leica Disto’s can now measure inclines?
Yes, the Leica Disto D3 and Leica Disto A8 have the ability to measure inclines. The D3 is limited to 45 degrees and is primarily for indoor use. The A8 has the full range of incline measurement and can easily be used outside.
What is IP 54
Most of the internal Leica laser products are constructed to IP54. This is an international standard for protection. The first digit indicates the level of dust protection and the second digit the level of water protection. IP54 is dust protected from the amount of dust to affect the devices operation and protected from splashes of water. Find out more >>
How do you change the battery on the Leica Disto D2 – Smallest laser measuring device?
The Leica Disto D2 has been manufacturer to be water and dust resistant to IP54 standard. The battery case has to fix firmly into the housing and create a strong seal.. The following instructions will assist you in removing the battery cover from the Leica Disto D2. View instructions >>
How easy is the Leica DISTO ™ D5 to use?
Very Easy. The new on screen colour menu system combined with buttons that are clearly marked with images explaining the different laser measuring functions makes the D5 easier to use that some of its predecessors. Included with the device is image based quick reference guide and we are always available to help simply call 08452 572 188 for FREE friendly support from one of our product specialists.
What is the Digital Pointfinder?
The integrated digital Pointfinder on the DISTO ™ D3 enables the user to sight a target using a real time colour video image on the screen. This is similar to the screen on most digital cameras and has 1x, 2x and 4x magnification zoom so you can accurate highlight the target in the central target marks on the screen. The zoom level is shown in the left top corner of the screen. To change from one zoom level to the next one you have to press the “Digital Pointfinder” key ( top left of the DISTO ™ D5 Keypad) The zoom levels will rotate around.
Can the brightness of the digital screen be adjusted when viewing in sunlight?
Yes, on the screen of the digital Pointfinder on top of the crosshair you see a symbol existing of a “Sun” and a “+” and “-”. By pressing the “Plus” and “Minus” key you are able to adjust the brightness in 5 steps. The screen is very clear in all conditions.
How accurate is the digital tilt sensor on the Leica DISTO ™ D5?
The accuracy of the tilt sensor in the device is ±0.30 to the laser beam respectively ±0.30 to the housing of the device.
What units of tilts are integrated into the Leica DISTO ™ D5?
You can set the Leica DISTO ™ D5 to use different tilt units. Select in the menu the submenu “Units” and choose between 0 , %, in/ft and mm/m.
What is the angular range of the tilt sensor in the Leica DISTO ™ D5?
The integrated tilt sensor in the Leica DISTO ™ D5 functions in the range ±450 and at a transverse / sideways tilt of < ±100. If the tilt is in the range > ±500 an info code “i160” appears in the display, which means that the device is being used outside its permissible range.
If the DISTO ™ is held at > ±100 transversely, the info code “i156” appears in the display and indicates that the device is tilted too much.
Does the Leica DISTO ™ D5 require calibration?
All Leica DISTO ™ Laser measures are calibrated when they are manufactured. A certificate of conformity is included with each DISTO ™. The internal construction of the Leica DISTO ™ D5 is very robust and the components fixed solidly in place. An internal check ensures continued accuracy but calibration is not possible. If the Leica DISTO ™ D5 shows a measuring error it will be replaced under the 3 Year Warranty (if registered at www.disto.com). We offer and annual service and accuracy check to ensure continued reliable operation of your DISTO ™. See www.laser-measure.co.uk/leica-disto-spares/leica-disto-spares-repairs.html for more details:
Can the tilt sensor of a Leica DISTO ™ D5 be calibrated by the user?
You can recalibrate the zero level of the integrated tilt sensor. In the menu there is a special point for this calibration. If you enter this submenu you will be guided through the process.
Please now proceed the following:
Put the device on a nearly horizontal flat surface (e.g.table)
- Carry out the first measurement by pressing “ON/DIST” key on a level surface. The device confirms the measurement.
- Rotate the device horizontally 1800.
- Press the “=/Menu” key to confirm that the device was rotated 1800.
- Press the “ON/DIST” key and take the second measurement. The device confirms the measurement. -> The zero level of the tilt sensor is now calibrated
Is it possible to obtain more detailed information about the measurements taken?
Yes, on many of the calculation functions it is possible to obtain additional detailed information in the Leica DISTO ™ D5. These is included in the measurement of areas, volumes, Pythagoras and the trapezoid functions. After the measurement have been taken, simply press and hold the relevant function key again.
A small red triangle on the bottom left hand of the display is showing that there are 2nd Results available.
What accessories are recommended for the Leica DISTO ™ D5?
Leica Tripod TRI100
For long distances we recommend using a tripod, even indoors. A tripod
provides additional steadiness and therefore allows accurate targeting,
especially over long distances. More information >>
Target Plates
For measurement especially outdoors and in very bright conditions or when
measuring onto a very dull surface it is very helpful to use a target
plate. We offer different versions in our accessory range. More information >>
Can the Leica DISTO ™ D5 also be used to measure horizontal angles?
No, the integrated tilt sensor can only measures vertical angles. If the device is held at a transverse tilt angle greater than ±100 the display shows an info code “i156”, which means that the device is required to be held level (transversely).
What is the circle on the keypad above the “Timer” key?
The Leica DISTO ™ D5 has a sensor to detect the brightness of the display. If the device is used outside in bright sunshine this sensor automatically adjusts the brightness for the display to save energy. Additionally an adjustment can be made in the menu. In the relevant submenu the brightness of the entire display can be adjusted in 6 steps.
Can the historical storage memory of 20 values in the device be erased?
Yes, the historical storage memory in the device can be erased by pressing the “Clear Off” and “Storage” keys - both pressed at the same time and held for 2 seconds.
Which batteries should I use for the Leica DISTO ™ D5 and how long will they last?
In general you can use any alkaline battery or any rechargeable batteries (2xAA). 2xAA batteries are included with your device. Battery life will vary depending upon use. However tests have proven that this is quite extensive. The largest drain on power is the digital point finder. This however does not remain on all the time and is only used when required for a short time only.
This list is not complete, and we always welcome questions. For free friendly advice simply call 0845 2572188 and ask for a Leica DISTO ™ product specialist or email sales@laser-measure.co.uk
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