Laser Distance Measure

Accurate Measuring: Fast & Easy

How many times have you stood there thinking "How am I going to take this measurement by myself?" Often this situation will generate an inaccurate measurement and usually frustration will lead an unsafe situation. The Johnson Laser Distance Measure (model # 40-6001 will make measuring fast, accurate and easy (which means safe).

With a simple 1-2-3 measuring system (Point-Press-Done), the Johnson Laser Distance Measure is the right measuring instrument for any jobsite. This essential tool is loaded with features that similar products sell for over $200. This LDM would pay for itself in no time if it was purchased only to do estimating. Yet it is capable of recording measurements to 1/32" for skilled trades people requiring a tight read. This tool is great for any estimating material list: trim, drywall, cabinetry, conduit, pipe, ducts, to exterior siding. A laser distance measure tool will help you get the job done faster and more accurately.

The Johnson 40-6001 Laser Distance Measure instrument covers off on all the basic measuring modes:

• Single Distance Measuring (point A to point B in a straight line)
• Continuous Measuring (point A to point B, then change to a new point B) with easy identification of the minimum and maximum
• Area (square feet)
• Volume (cubic feet)
• Stake Out (be able to identify intervals to be staked out; for example, fence posts)
• Addition and Subtraction calculator

Key features of the Johnson laser distance measure:

• Patented Sound Activated Measuring Mode (no more waiting for the countdown timer)
• 3-Indirect Measuring Modes (single & double Pythagoras and partial height Pythagoras - see below for a further explanation Indirect Measuring)
• 10 Measurement Memory Recall
• Continuous Laser Mode

Other features include:

• Tripod thread (1/4"-20) enables precise long distance measuring (Essential to achieving accurate Pythagoras Indirect Measurements).
• Adjustable measurement reference settings (Rear, front & tripod thread locations)
• Side measure button (ergonomic)
• Level vial for achieving the final measurement in the Indirect Measuring modes (90 degree measurement required to calculate height or width)

Proper Use Creates Successful Results

While a laser distance measure tool is remarkably fast and efficient there are situations which will challenge any make or model. Let's start with the basics. The key to taking successful measurements with any laser distance measure product begins with aiming at a solid target. Attempting to measure highly reflective, porous, translucent, water covered or bright sunlight covered surfaces will be difficult. This is true of all laser distance measuring products and is not a defective issue. It is simply the nature of the product.

To explain in simple terms how these tools work: A laser beam is emitted from instrument and once it makes contact with a surface the beam is reflected back to the instrument. There is a lens that receives the reflected beam and determines (by the rate or speed of return) the distance of the surface or object. If this surface has poor reflective properties the return signal will be too weak for the instrument to calculate the distance. Likewise, if a surface has a highly reflective surface (or is in direct sunlight) the laser distance measure will not receive the sufficient return signal to determine a distance.

As with any new technology, start off easy and work your way into more advanced measurements. Once you get comfortable with how the LDM operates you will naturally begin to trust the results. This instrument is designed to take accurate measurements and will meet your expectations if used properly. In the computer programming world they say "garbage in equals garbage out". In other words, taking measurements in compromising settings (ie wet surfaces, porous surfaces, moving targets, temperature outside specified range, etc) may result in inaccurate measurements. If you are first time user start out using the product to take estimation measurements. If you don't think this measuring tool will be as accurate as your tape measure then double check your results against your tape. In no time at all, you will be impressed with the ease and accuracy of the Johnson 40-6001 laser distance measure's capabilities. One very important piece of advice is to ALWAYS take several controlled measurements (Of a known distance) to insure the tool is reading properly PRIOR to taking critical measurements.

Indirect Measuring / Pythagoras In Simple Terms

Take a minute to think back to your high school days. Then think (if you can remember) to the day of sitting in Geometry class when the teacher introduced you to some smart Greek guy named Pythagoras. He is famous for creating the Pythagorean Theroem (a² + b² = c²). If you know 2 lengths (but not the third) this formula allows you to calculate a missing dimension of a triangle. There is a point to this so don't stop reading yet! The Johnson model 40-6001 is equipped with 3 Indirect Measuring Modes. Each works based on the Pythagoras equation. How you ask? If you are looking at a wall and you want to quickly estimate the height but don't have a ladder to climb to drop a tape to obtain the measurement. Simply choose the Indirect Measuring Mode you need, take the 2 (or 3) measurements required from where you stand and the laser distance measure will calculate the height of the wall for you. No need to do any math! This function is based off of a triangular dimension so Indirect Measuring can also calculate the width of a wall. You just need to position yourself accordingly.

Interior Applications

Length Measurements

Carpentry

• Crown molding
• Chair rails
• Base boards

HVAC

• Duct lengths

Electrical

• Conduit lengths
• Wire/cable length
• Determine light/lumens requirements

Plumbing

• Pipe length
• Distance between pumps

MRO

• Measure distances between machines
• Conveyor belt lengths
• Determine clearance heights of high voltage lines

Area Measurements(Square feet/meters)

• Room dimensions
• Estimating material (drywall, flooring, lumber, HVAC, painting, drop ceilings)
• Determine "footprint" of equipment or materials

Volume Measurements(Cubic feet/meters)

• Concrete pours
• Duct dimensions
• Industrial oven volumes
• Room volumes for air exchange/flow
• Insulation requirements

Indirect Measurements(Pythagoras: Height or Width)

• Window/window covering dimensions
• Structure/equipment dimensions
• Vertical or horizontal surface dimensions

Continuous Measurements:

• Walk-off measurements quickly

EXTERIOR APPLICATIONS

Length Measurements:

• Siding
• Trim lengths
• Gutter lengths
• Exterior wall lengths/widths
• Parking lots

Indirect Measurements:(Pythagoras: Height or Width)

• Window dimensions
• Structure/equipment dimensions
• Vertical or horizontal surface dimensions

Note: Exterior use may be limited based upon lighting conditions, temperature range and an optimal target surface to achieve accurate results outdoors. Unfavorable conditions such as direct sunlight, porous/unreflective surfaces or temperature conditions outside of specified range will deteriorate the effectiveness of the laser beam which could compromise the ability to take measurements in some situations.

Accessories

A 1/4" - 20 tripod, although not necessary to use, will offer stability, particularly with indirect measurements.

©2010 Johnson Level & Tool Mfg. Co., Inc.