A tape measure is one of the most common tools found in households. It helps people handle various measuring tasks in daily life and work. However, traditional tape measures have limitations. For example, if you need to measure the distance from the floor to the ceiling, it is often difficult for one person to do it alone. You may need another person to help hold the tape in place. You also need to make sure the tape is long enough to complete the measurement. This can be inconvenient.

A digital laser tape measure solves these problems. It combines laser technology with a physical tape. It also has an electronic display. This tool makes measuring faster, easier, and more accurate. Let’s learn how to use a digital laser tape measure.

How Does a Digital Laser Tape Measure Work?

A digital laser tape measure has two main ways to measure: the tape itself and a laser.

• Digital Tape Function
  The tape part uses a special encoder that tracks how much tape is pulled out. A magnetic strip runs along the tape. A sensor reads this strip to know the exact position of the tape. This information is sent to a small computer inside the device. Then, the measurement is shown on the LED screen.
• Laser Measure Function
  The laser measure works by sending a laser pulse toward a target. The device calculates how long it takes for the laser to bounce back. Using the speed of light, it then calculates the distance. The result is displayed on the screen.

How Accurate Are Digital Measuring Tapes?

Accuracy is important for any measuring tool. Here is the typical accuracy of a digital laser tape measure:

• Laser measurement: ± 3 mm
• Tape measurement: ± 1 mm

This means the tape is slightly more accurate. But the laser allows you to measure long distances easily without physical contact.

How Do I Read a Digital Tape Measure?

Using a digital laser tape measure is simple.

First, turn on the device. Then, select the unit you want (like meters or feet). If you are using the laser, point it at the target. Press the measure button. The distance will appear on the screen.

Here are the detailed steps:

Using the Laser

• Turn on the device.
• Press the laser button to activate the laser dot.
• Aim the laser at the target.
• Press the measure button again. The device will take a single measurement. The result shows on the display.

Using the Tape

• Turn on the device.
• Pull out the tape. The screen will show the length of the tape pulled out.
• Press the measure button to confirm and save the measurement.

How to Change Units on a Digital Laser Tape Measure

You can easily change the unit of measurement.

• In tape mode, the device usually uses the front of the tool as the reference point.
• In laser mode, it often uses the rear as the reference. You can change this by pressing the unit/reference button.

For example, if you are measuring from a wall to a target, you may want to use the rear reference. This means the measurement includes the entire length of the device.

How to Calibrate a Laser Distance Meter

To make sure your device is accurate, you should calibrate it sometimes.

Here is how:

1. Use a physical tape measure or a ruler to measure a known distance (for example, 2 meters).
2. Mark that distance or fix the tape in place.
3. Place your laser measure at the exact starting point.
4. Make sure the device is set to the correct reference (front or rear).
5. Turn on the laser meter.
6. Aim the laser at the target.
7. Press the measure button.
8. Compare the result with the physical tape measure.

If the laser measure shows a very different number, you may need to send it to the manufacturer for adjustment.

What Does a Digital Laser Tape Measure Do?

A digital laser tape measure is not just for simple length measurements. It has many useful functions.

Press the function button to switch between modes. Common modes include:

Area Measurement
Use this to measure the area of a room or surface.

• How to use: Switch to area mode. Measure the length and the width. The device will multiply them and show the area.
• Useful for: Flooring, carpet installation, painting projects.

Volume Measurement
Use this to measure the volume of a space.

• How to use: Switch to volume mode. Measure the length, width, and height. The device calculates and displays the volume.
• Useful for: HVAC planning, pool volume, storage space.

Pythagorean Measurement (Single and Double)
This allows you to measure indirect distances. For example, you can measure the height of a wall without climbing a ladder.

Add/Subtract Measurement
You can add or subtract measurements.

• How to use: Take the first measurement. Press the add/subtract button. Take the next measurement. The device will show the total or the difference.

Continuous Measurement
This mode lets you track changes while moving the device.

• How to use: Press and hold the measure button to start. Move the device. The screen will show the minimum, maximum, and current values. Press the button again to stop.

Memory Function
The device can store up to 100 measurements.

• How to use: Switch to memory mode. Use the buttons to scroll through past measurements.

Do Digital Laser Tape Measures Work Outside?

Yes, but with some limitations.

• Green laser models are better for outdoor use. They are more visible in bright light.
• Red laser models are best for indoor use only.

Sunlight can make it hard for the device to detect the laser. On very bright days, the measurable distance may be reduced. For example, some devices may only work up to 30 feet in direct sunlight. Rain or fog can also affect accuracy.

For best results outdoors, use a green laser model. Try to measure in the shade or during overcast conditions.

A digital laser tape measure is a powerful tool. It is easy to use and very helpful for many tasks. You can measure lengths, areas, and volumes quickly. You can also work alone without help. With practice, you will save time and improve your work accuracy.

Whether you are a professional or a DIY user, this tool can make measuring easier. Learn the functions. Practice using it. You will enjoy its benefits.