| Accuracy |
With
the laser set to level or grade, at a given distance, how far from
perfection will the laser beam be. Usually expressed as plus or minus
a fraction of an inch at 100 feet. (Or ±Xmm at 30m) Accuracy may also
be expressed in terms of arc seconds. 10 Arc Seconds translates to
±1/16" at 100'. (±1.6mm at 30M.) |
| Compensator |
Gravity
type mechanism, usually some type of pendulum system to insure that
laser beam is level. With this type of self leveling system, the laser
must be rough leveled, (a bullseye bubble or level vials are used),
so that the compensator can work. |
| Deadband |
Usually
applied to a receiver. This is the distance that a receiver can be
moved and still give an on grade reading. If the deadband is too fine,
it becomes difficult to get an on grade reading, if the deadband is
too wide, it becomes difficult to maintain accuracy. |
| Grade
Capability |
The
range of slope that can be dialed into the laser. Expressed as percent
of slope. |
| Helium
Neon Tube |
Gas
Filled Tube that Produces Red Beam Laser Light, now replaced by the
laser diode which is smaller, lighter, and draws far less power. |
| Laser |
Acronym
for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation |
| Laser
Diode |
Solid
state light emitting device. Light may be visible or invisible infra
red. |
| Manual
Leveling |
The
laser is kept level through the use of glass level vials. The user
must check these vials periodically, because the level bubbles may
move during the day, in response to vibrations and changes in temperature. |
| Operating
Range |
The
maximum distance from the laser where the detector will still function.
Usually given in terms of an operating radius or diameter. |
| Penta
Mirror |
Device
that reflects a light beam outward at a 90º angle in relation to the
incoming beam |
| Self
Leveling |
The
laser is leveled either with a compensator, or with an electronic
servo motor system. If the laser is disturbed or goes out of level,
the mechanism will make a correction. If the mechanism cannot bring
the laser back to level, it shuts the laser off. |
| Self
Leveling Range |
Expressed
as ± x number of degrees or arc minutes. This figure denotes how far
the laser can be tilted, while still maintaining its ability to self
level. |