Masonry Magazine August 2004 Page. 32
Industry
TRENDS
One highly practical application is the self-leveling aspect. Another rotating laser level that includes a self-leveling function within the laser-sending unit is the Porter-Cable Crossliner. It has a built-in sensor that causes the level and/or plumb beam to immediately flash when the tool is out of level. Internally, a self-leveling system based on a pendulum effectively helps to eliminate errors where vibration, bumps and temperature changes can adversely impact the unit.
The Crossliner, sold through distributors such as Laser Products Industries, Romeoville, Ill., is a two-beam level and plumb unit that is tripod-mounted or can stand on the footing or slab when in use. The scanning beams show plumb (vertical) and level (horizontal), while the rotating Internally, a self-leveling system based on a pendulum effectively helps to eliminate errors where vibration, bumps and temperature changes can adversely impact the unit.
base allows close angle setting. Market prices vary, of course, but the unit can often be found for less than $250 the Laser Products web site showed it at $199 the last time we looked.
Laser Products Industries also carries its own line of laser levels called the Laser Square line. Smaller than the Crossliner, the SL-24, for example, can be set on a corner of a batter board set-up and set 90 or 45 degree angles with a light pattern extending as much as 500 feet indoors (low-light levels) and 150 feet outdoors (daylight). This one unit is capable of checking level, square and plumb and yet is easily carried on one hand or in a pouch on the belt. Using the dot pattern method, the dots can travel out from the unit along a wall course and show bulges or rises as small as a fraction of an inch.
For those looking for a low-end all-in-one package, Zircon offers a rotating laser kit. It's a full function unit comprised of an auto-leveling base (manual-leveling base available) with modular Qube lasers. The Qube lasers produce lines or dots, and there are accessories available to customize the basic rotary laser. Kits start at only $60 for the manual base or $100 for the auto-leveling base and are available directly from Zircon, Campbell, Calif.
Other Laser Applications
IN KEEPING WITH ITS NAME, Laser Square also has a builder's square with a laser mounted in the 90-degree angle. One person can square up to 150 degrees indoors, 70-80 degrees outdoors, and even more with a target. Both beams intersect at the inside cor-
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