Thursday, November 10, 2011

How to use Slop/Grade laser

Slope /grade lasers come in two basic types: single and dual slope with options for adjustment. The single slope laser gives you a read on a slope one axis at a time. The dual slope laser has the ability to give you a read on two slopes on separate axis at the same time, which allows you the possibility of coming up with a compound grade. How you adjust the grade on your slope laser depends on how it is designed. For a manual grade slope laser, you have to figure out what the grade is to be and set your detector and rod to that grade, then manually move the beam up or down until your detector comes on to center. An automatic lasers eliminates a lot of that work, and then there are semi-automatic slope lasers that automatically adjust some of the functions. Here are some models to consider:

A good basic slope grade laser, like the semi-automatic Leica Single Grade Laser Rugby, has a high impact, glass filled housing, a solid metal base and it is 100% waterproof, for assured durability. It has an LCD grade readout and a bump alert that alerts you if the laser has been moved or bumped out of position, so as to avoid an error in your reading. It includes a beam masking feature, which turns off the laser diode on up to three sides to prevent unwanted disturbances. It has a user friendly menu. The star button opens the menu and allows you to enter changes. You select the axis, then press Up or Down to enter the required grade.

For remote control convenience, consider the Spectra Precision Laser GL412 (single grade) and GL422 (dual grade) transmitters. They are automatic self-leveling lasers that offer three functions in one piece of economical equipment: level, grade and vertical alignment with plumb. They both feature a 2-way, remote control with a built-in back-lit grade display which gives you access to all the functions on the laser keypad from up to 330 feet away. The ability to make grade changes from anywhere on the job greatly reduces setup time and speeds operation, especially when multiple job grade breaks are needed. Both units also incorporate automatic temperature and grade compensation for high accuracy in any weather or location. The beam is also kept precise by eliminating interference; it can be turned off electronically on on up to 3 sides of your choice.

Wireless technology gives the Trimble Spectra GL512 and 522 Grade Lasers greater grade matching capability, on top of all the functions of the GL400 series lasers. Wireless communication between the HL750 Laserometer and the transmitters provide automatic Grade Matching. Grade Matching allows measurement of unknown grade values between two points. It also has special features to eliminate This eliminates errors induced by environmental factors. PlaneLok automatically locks the beam on the receiver and keeps it on grade. Electronic Leveling Vibration Filter dampens vibrations in high winds or on high vibration jobsites. The casing is rugged enough to withstand a 3 foot drop on concrete.

The Trimble Spectra GL700 Series offers the most innovative collection of features for faster and more accurate reads on grades- Long-range Remote Control, PlaneLok, Grade Matching and
Automatic Axis Alignment. With the powerful, long-range remote control option it only takes one person to accurately set up and operate the grade laser. Even grade reverse is done in an instant. Complex alignments are automatic and virtually foolproof. You can even automatically control all the transmitter functions from inside the cab of a machine. Each unit comes with a laser receiver standard, your choice of power options, and the best service and support in the industry. Choose from economical, single grade to advanced, steep grade laser transmitters.

Topcon’s RL-100 Series provides single slopes from –5% to up to +25% in X or Y axis and comes complete with Topcon’s new LS-80B laser receiver, sensor holder, batteries, and a hard shell carrying case, so it’s ready to get to work as soon as you are. It is a fully automatic self-leveling laser with a range up to 2,500 feet, 5 arc second repeatability, a graphical display, and extra long battery life.

For the combination of versatility with ease of use, consider the AGATEC 11-0349 A710GC Split Beam Electronic Dual Grade Self Leveling Rotary Laser Level with Z Axis Grade. Whether you need a standard horizontal laser, a grade laser, an interior laser, or as a alignment laser with digital grade, this one piece of equipment will do it. The AGATEC A710 GC is fully self leveling and simple to get started. Just set up on the tripod and press the power button. The AGATEC A710 GC will level itself within its 6 degree self leveling range and start spinning. You may then enter grades up to +/-10% (increments of 0.001%) in the X and Y axis for grade applications using the detachable IR/Radio remote control. The AGATEC A710 GC is accurate to 1/8"@100ft with a horizontal working range of 1000ft in diameter with the included SR200 laser detector. It is also tough enough to hold up to harsh conditions, guaranteed dustproof and waterproof.
The AGATEC MR240 machine sensor that accompanies the AGATE A710, provides the user with a laser sensor that can be mounted on the dipper arm of back hoes or excavators via the rare earth mounting magnets. Grade indications are visible via the bright crisp LED lights indicating above, below and on grade signals. The AGATEC MR240 allows the machine operator to continue working as grade indications are directly visible to the operator from the cab of the machine. The AGATEC MR240 keeps co-workers out of the danger zones of heavy machines and allows them to be more productive on other areas of the job site.

Getting an accurate read on a slope is essential for surveyors and engineers who plan roads, concrete sections with run-off for sports fields, or parking garages and ramps with designed for conducive drainage. Accurate grade is also key to setting up sewer systems and storm drain pipes. Contractors also can benefit from grade lasers in site preparation, septic installation, trenching. and installing a driveway. Consider the range of functions you anticipate on your job site and get the grade laser that will work for you.


Wednesday, September 14, 2011

How to use Automatic Levels/Theodolites

Automatic Levels are used by people whose jobs rely on fast and accurate measurements. Those include engineers, surveyors, landscaping professionals, and contractors, as well as deck, pool, and fence builder. Like a standard level, an automatic one relies on centering a bubble. The automatic level allows the bubble to be viewed as an erect image during setup and sighting and is close to set and eliminates the wait for settling. . An air-dampened compensator prevents magnetic interference. An internal compensator mechanism automatically removes disparity from the level. The automatic features cut down on the possibility of human error and maximize the ease of taking measurements to yield better productivity and performance.



If you are concerned about how well the level will hold up in inclement weather, check the rating and durability guarantee. Most automatic levels offer some protection from humidity, dusts, and vibrations. For those working in rough conditions, there are options for models with a rugged casing that is designed to protect the instrument’s functionality, even if it is dropped – both on land or water. IP57 signifies that the equipment can withstand total immersion in water and is fully dustproof. Manufacturer warranties also vary. One year is standard, but some extend to as long as five years.



Generally, automatic levels are designed to be easily carried and attached to a tripod for a steady base point. Some include nice conveniences like backlit LCD displays for easier reads in low light situations, built in memory. Check for the range, magnification, accuracy, and temperature range that your job requires. Taking measurement in tight spots or on steep slopes would require the ability to focus over shorter distances. The cost for automatic levels range from about $150 to over $2000, depending on the features.

Theodolites are a key tool for land surveyors and engineers who have to determine horizontal and vertical angles.



Until technology made it possible to automate measures and calculations, using a theodolites involved a great deal of manual setup, manipulation, and math. Here’s how the process is described


The observer looked through the telescope and carefully aligned the vertical cross-hair with the left-most survey target. The horizontal circle was rotated so that it read just above zero when the cross-hairs were on this target. The circle was then locked in place and the direction indicated on the circle was read and recorded. After this reading was taken, the telescope was rotated clockwise until the cross-hair was aligned with a second target. This second direction was read from the circle and recorded. This procedure was repeated until all targets were observed and recorded. Then, the telescope was rotated 180 degrees around both axes. The same stations were observed again and the angle values recorded.


This entire procedure was one set of angles.


Consider that all those adjustments had to be observed and recorded for a single set, and then the surveyor or engineer was still far from done:


The two readings for each target were averaged to help eliminate systematic errors. The number of sets of angles observed depended on the precision of the survey work being performed. For first-order survey work, 16 sets were observed and averaged to determine the final angles. Directions exceeding a specified value from the mean were rejected and repeated.


Think of going through all those calculation. Now you don’t have to think too much about it because today’s theodolites offer greater ease of use, combined with higher speed and accuracy. The digitial electronic technology in modern theodolites eliminate the necessity of manual adjustments and extensive calculation. The optical plummet allows the user to align instrument directly over a reference point without having to use the old plumbob method. The key pad is very easy to use. The measurements appear clearly on the LCD screen within seconds. The accuracy of the angle measurement is excellent with a range of 2 to 20 seconds, depending on the model.



Select the model that is up to the job for you. That means it has all the features you need sand will hold up to the condition you will work in, whether they are dark, dusty, damp or downright wet. Its ranking for holding up to water and dust is indicated by its IP rating with 66 being the highest available. If you are going to be working in conditions of low or no light, like underground, in a tunnel or inside a structure without windows, you would benefit from a model with a built-in reticle illuminator and backlit LCD, so that you can view its readings without having to shine a flashlight on it. If you are concerned about operating cost and downtime, look for features like a rechargeable battery pack and charger and backup batteries. Theodolites may also include other convenient options like a sun shade, tool kit, rain cover, drying cloth, plumb bob and carrying case.


The median price for a theodolite is in the $2000 range, though some advanced models can top $12,000, and some basic models are available for under $800. More advanced models use lasers and keep a record of measurements, allowing you to take repeated or repositioned measurements without stopping to write down the figures and come up with calculation. The data is saved and managed on a computer. That eliminate read and write errors and facilitates the data direct entry into software.


At tiger supplies we carry all brand theodolites Sokkia, Topcon, Leica, Spectra Precision, Nikon, Cst Berger, Northwest Instruments, South Survey,

Friday, August 26, 2011

The general principle of Construction Laser levels

The Construction Laser device projects a continuous laser beam to form a solid line at a level point on horizontal and vertical areas, eliminating the need for drawing an imaginary line or bringing in a yardstick to connect the lines. Typically, the laser level will be fixed to particular spot on the wall or a central point in a room. Fixed laser levels throw a level beam against a wall or floor, while rotary lasers cast a beam around 360 degrees. Laser levels also offer options for manual or self-leveling.



When you select a Construction Laser to purchase, it is important to think about how you intend to use it: Indoors or outdoors? For small distances or large ones? Will you require a laser level on a whole room or plot? Would you need to measure or set a grade or even compound one? When you are clear on the functions you need, you can look for the features you would like for greater convenience and function. You might need laser detectors, a wall/ceiling mount platform, or a trivet for a side mount. You may like the convenience of options like self-leveling, displays, remote controls, rechargeable battery packs, or AC chargers. Or you may the most basic model you can buy that will get the job done. Whichever situation you find yourself in, here are some key terms to know when shopping for a construction laser level.


Manual laser levels


Fixed manual laser levels are useful on small jobs. Their low cost puts them in reach of Do-It-Yourselfers who want to assure a straight line when building shelves, or a who need to get beams align for an outdoor deck. Those jobs do not require the greater range and accuracy of electronic self-leveling lasers or rotary lasers.



Just like traditional levels, manual laser levels depend on a vial of liquid that the user looks to make a determination. But while the low-tech level can guide you to a straight line for that extends as far as the level itself, once you get beyond that 3 or 4 foot range, you can lose your line and, consequently, your accuracy. In contrast, the laser level projects a beam that draws the line for you, so you can get an accurate line for the entire length of the wall or floor or ceiling.



Self-leveling laser levels


The general rule about self-leveling laser levels is that they do cost more than manual ones, but that the time and uncertainty they save you offsets the expense.When working on larger projects, like the installation of multiple walls, doors, or window, self-leveling devices offer the assurance of greater accuracy and faster results. Most depend on an internal pendulum to establish the level, while others use a n electronic servo motor to establish the level. Self-leveling devices are design to alert the user or even shut off if they get out of level by 3% or more (depending on the model) to prevent stop you from using the beam as a reference and getting a false read. A straight line laser level suffices for most jobs with areas up to 150 feet. If the area is greater, or the job requires a level that cover 360 degrees, then you may want to upgrade to a rotary laser level.



Rotary Laser Levels


For jobs that call for covering the complete periphery of an area, laying foundation for a building, or even lighter jobs like the installation of a fence, chair rails, or a dropped ceiling, getting an all around level read can make all of the difference in the results. That’s when a rotary laser level is particularly useful.


Rotary Laser Levels are usually positioned in the center of a room , often on a tripod. From that central point, the levels casts its laser beam all around the room to get a complete 360 degree read. Models that come with an optional trivet, which allows them to operate when laid on the side, can also project a vertical plane that cuts through the floor, walls, and ceiling. Rotary Lasers are available in both manual-leveling or self-leveling models.



Laser detector


Rotary laser models designed for indoor use may not include a laser detector, which is essential for outdoor use because the laser line will not be apparent outside in daylight without it. Many detectors comprise an LCD screen for a visual guide, as well as an audible component to guide you through sound. It would emit a short beep when you're close to the point of being on level, and a steady tone when you've arrived at level. In addition to being absolutely indispensable for outdoor use, the laser detector can almost double the range of a rotary laser.



Grade Lasers Dual Slop/Single Slop Grede lasers


For outdoor jobs that require a setting for slope, you need a rotary laser designed to take a read on grade. Such devices cost more than standard rotary lasers, but they are crucial to professional whose work involves establishing a grade. Those include any form of landscaping or construction that needs to take proper drainage into account, including site preparation, parking garages, parking ramps, driveways, sports fields, tennis courts, or roads.



These types of lasers fall into two primary categories, the single slope and dual slope. The lowest cost option is the single grade one, which gives you a slope one axis at a time. Some single grade models have to be adjusted manually. That means you would have to figure out what the grade is to be and set your detector and rod to that grade, then manually moving the beam up or down until your detector comes on to center. In such models, there is no display on the laser to read the grade. The dual grade or dual slope laser costs more than the single one, but it also offers greater functionality and a built in display for the self-leveling grade. In addition to the ability of giving you a read on two slopes on separate axes at the same time, it also offers you the option of producing a compound grade.



The second is a dual slope this type will have a display to see the different grades on the laser and will usually be more expensive than the single slope laser. Dual slope lasers give you the option to induce a grade in both axes giving you a compound grade. In addition to giving you a read on level and grade, many models give you the vertical alignment and plumb. For extra convenience, some offer the feature of full function remote control. The ability to make grade changes without having to return to the unit greatly reduces setup time for better efficiency, especially on jobs that require multiple grade reads.


Friday, August 19, 2011

Handheld Distance lasers

We’ve all heard the adage, “Measure twice, cut once,” which points to how important it is to get accurate measurements before beginning a project. Accurate measurements are needed by anyone who is doing a survey, doing a site layout, checking slopes or and land elevations. It also is necessary in a host of construction projects, from leveling posts and beams, to aligning walls, setting windows at uniform height. Even installing cabinets, shelves, doors, molding, and trim requires precise measurements if one hopes to only cut once and not have to shave, patch, or fill in gaps that result from measuring incorrectly.
Getting the numbers surveyors, architects, engineers, or even home owners doing their own renovation projects used to involve the help of an assistant, notes, some guesswork and several calculations. You had to take out a tape measure, find someone to hold the other end steady for you, write down the numbers, and then work out the calculations for the area. The drawback to that method was that it takes time and can be quite a bit off in accuracy. Even if the tape measure is completely accurate and has not stretched or warped with use, if is not held perfectly straight and taut, your results could be off by several inches, and the discrepancy would only grow as you came up with the figure for the area.
Now there is a far better way to get measurements within seconds and with an accuracy within just 1/16 and even 1/32 of an inch. Leica Disto Laser Distance meters are designed to take the hassle and guesswork out of measuring. Instead of rolling out a tape, you simply aim at a target, like a wall, corner of a house, or a mark you set up and press a button to get the measurement in as little as 4 seconds. It will only take seconds more to get the square footage and volume of what you measure because the device does the calculations for you.
Aside from the assurance of a true measurement and the benefit of saved time, measuring with a Leica Disto Laser Distance meter eliminates a great deal of inconvenience. You don’t have to drop everything else to take your measurement because the device can be operated with just one hand. You don’t have to write down the results because the device records it for you. You also don’t have to climb over anything or take along a flashlight to dark places you need to measure because you stay put while the laser goes the distance for you and provides its own built in light for the screen display.
There are a number of different Leica Disto Laser meters to choose from. Which one you select would depend on your needs.
For someone with a need to measure simple, indoor distances, like when taking measurements for windows, doors, and ceiling of a residence, a simple device can suffice. The Disto D2 is very affordably priced and very easy to carry with dimensions of 4.37x1.6x .9” and a weight of just over 3 ½ ounces. It has a membrane keyboard, LCD display, 10 recall values, and an accuracy within .06 inches. It can take measurements up to 195’ with a target and up to 125’ without one in daylight. It offers 2 measuring methods.
For someone with a need to measure somewhat greater distances like the exterior of house, an office layout, or a moderately sized lot, the Disto D330 offers some more options. It is somewhat bulkier, but still easy to carry at 5.0x1.9x1.1” and a weight of 5.26 ounces. It has an illuminated soft touch keyboard, LCD display, 20 recall values, and an accuracy within .04 inches. It can take measurements up to 328’ with a target and up to 225’ without one in daylight. It offers 4 measuring methods. It also has a built in level for up to 45 degrees and a tripod mount of ¼” - 20.
It also has an auto sensing positioning bracket and +/- 0.3degree accuracy to the beam and the housing. The Disto 330i offers all of the features of the 330 plus a Bluetooth computer interface, which allows for your measurements to seamlessly transfer into your computer applications.
For greater range, particularly when working on outdoor measurements, you would probably require something a bit bigger with greater range. The Disto 5’s dimensions are 5.64x2.17x1, and its weight is 6.87 ounces. It has an illuminated soft touch keyboard, color display, built in telescopic viewer, 20 recall values, and an accuracy within .06 inches. It can take measurements up to 650’ with a target and up to 400’ without one in daylight.
The Disto 5 also has a built in level for up to 45 degrees and a tripod mount of ¼” - 20. It also has an auto sensing positioning bracket and +/- 0.3degree accuracy to the beam and the housing. It offers 6+ measuring methods.
If you want to be up to any measuring challenge with the most advanced hand-held device on the market , you want the Disto 8. It is the only one of the line that can boast a 360 degree tilt sensor and 9+ measuring methods. The combination of angle and distance measurements allows you to determine distances where conventional methods fail. The horizontal distance, for example, can also be determined quickly and efficiently past obstacles or the elevation of a tree, even though there is no reflective point.
The Disto 8’s dimensions are 5.64x2.17x1, and its weight is 7.23 ounces. It has an illuminated soft touch keyboard, color display, built in telescopic viewer, 20 recall values, and an accuracy within .04 inches. It can take measurements up to 650’ with a target and up to 400’ without one in daylight. The Disto 8 also has a tripod mount of ¼” – 20 and an auto sensing positioning bracket and +/- 0.2-1 degree accuracy to the beam and .+/- .1 degrees the housing. It also syncs right into your computer with a Bluetooth interface.
The Disto 8 includes a CD with Leica DISTO™ Transfer for PC and PPC, AutoCAD® PlugIn.
Consider the types of measurements you anticipate, and select your device accordingly. Whatever your measuring needs, you can rely on Leica Disto Laser Distance meters to get the job done quickly and accurately.



Monday, June 6, 2011

Leica Lino L2+ Self Leveling 180 Degree Cross Line Laser



We are very excited to announce a new member of the Leica Lino product family – Leica Lino L2+.Developed in response to customer requests, the new Lino L2+ features an extra large fan-angle ofapproximately 180° for both lines. Thus even longer laser lines can be projected and alignments as wellas leveling tasks are brought to further perfection.The Lino L2+ is delivered in a practical hard-case, which protects the device and the scope of deliveryduring transportation and storage.
We wish you a great deal of success in Useing the new expanded Leica Lino family.
All Leica Lino come with a 3 year warranty

in Stock Ship from TigerSupplies in same day

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Drafting Drawing Room Table



A classic 4-post wood table that is perfect for art, crafts, drafting, and all kinds of creative work in the home, office, or studio. Made from eco-friendly, sustainable rubber wood that is valued for its dense grain and is often compared to fine teak. Finished with a medium stain and durable polyurethane. The 36" x 48" work surface provides plenty of room to spread out while the spacious drawer provides convenient access and storage for your supplies. Attractive tapered legs are 2" square at the top for stability and a footrest is included for comfort. Through-bolt hardware for years of wobble-free service. Warp-free top has a natural birch veneer.



in stock by tigersupplies ship in same day

Friday, May 20, 2011

Topcon RL-H4C Rotary Laser Horizontal Level


Topcon′s NEW RL-H4C auto-leveling laser combines precision, versatility and value in one job site tough package. Its super-fast self-leveling motors are accurate to +/-10 arc seconds meaning whether you′re checking grade or setting batter boards you′re going to be accurate the first time. Its high-power 2.4mW diode means you have a 2,600ft. (800m) diameter working radius making it a great reference for machine mounted receivers. The 635nm visible beam means it can even be used for interior alignment applications from setting piers and decking, to wall and even cabinet alignment. All of these features plus optional dry, rechargeable battery operation makes the RL-H4C more than twice the laser offered by anyone else.
All Weather DependabilityWith the IP66 rating, the RL-H4C is “jobsite tough” and can withstand dust, a sudden shower and even torrential rainfall.
Multi Purpose LaserGrading, excavating and general construction projects are perfect applications for the RL-H4C. With the added “Slope Matching“ feature you can work on and also check grade on all your flat and slope work. The 635nm visible beam means it can even be used for interior alignment applications from setting piers and decking, to wall and even cabinet alignment
Long Range OperationNeed to shoot elevations up to 1,300 feet from your laser? No problem. This instrument has the power and range to cover a 2,600 ft. diameter jobsite.
Available by Tiger Supplies in stock Ships same day


Thursday, May 19, 2011

NEW Northwest Instrument NLR60 Laser Range Finder







The NEW Northwest Instrument NLR60 is NWI’s newest laser range finder. It is compact, durable, precise and simple to operate. It is also compact enough to easily fit into a pocket or tool belt. The NLR60 can measure units in meters, inches and feet and is also IP 54 dust / water resistant In stock by TigerSupplies ships in same day

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Sokkia New SHC25 and SHC25A Data Collectors



Sokkia Corporation has added two new models to its data collector lineup to expand users' choices. The SHC25/25A weighs 11.3 oz (320g) including battery, and measures 3.23 x 5.75 x 1.30 in. (82 x 146 x 33mm). The SHC25 series is a light and smal data collector which meets the US military standard that withstands extremely rough conditions.
Conforming to the latest MIL-STD-810G, both models have cleared the drop tests from a height of 5 ft. (1.52m). These models are also rated to IP65 of the IEC standard, eliminating powder dust and driving rain as potential problems.
"The new SHC25 series is not only an affordable choice, but also features superior portability, ruggedness and ease of use in the field," said Brice Walker, vice president of survey sales.
Each model integrates the 20-channel L1 GPS receiver that provides point positioning accuracy of 5 meters (16.4 ft.) and DGPS accuracy of 1 to 3 meters (3.3 to 9.9 ft.) using SBAS signals. In addition, the SHC25A model includes built-in 3 MP auto focus camera, electronic compass and altimeter to meet the increasing demand for GIS data collection capability.
"We have designed these new models on basis of our extensive experience in the data collector business," said Walker. "One Li-ion rechargeable battery supplies enough power for almost one day, but we focused on the field replaceable battery design that gives the maximum convenience to the users."
The SHC25 series features the Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system, 533MHz processor, and 256MB SDRAM. Sokkia's data collection software Spectrum Survey Field, as well as the construction layout software Sokkia Layout Field, fully runs on the SHC25/25A, meaning that these data collectors have abilities to control all Sokkia GPS/GNSS receivers, total stations and digital levels.
Sokkia now offers four choices. The SHC250 model features the ultra-fast 806MHz processor, while the SHC2500 offers quick data entry with a full alphanumeric keyboard. If users prefer the compact size, lightweight or cost effectiveness, the new SHC25 is recommened. The new SHC25A satisfies GIS data collection demands in addition to the SHC25 functionality. All of the data collectors provide environmental protection, including IP65 or higher dust/water protections that ensure maximum data security.
The SHC25 and SHC25A data collectors are available now through Tiger Supplies A authorized Sokkia distributor