The transition to new and more technologically advanced solutions is often accompanied by certain costs. In the construction industry, two similar factors can be distinguished - increased financial costs and the need for retraining. This is especially true for a measuring tool, which is endowed with complex functionality and, of course, costs much more than ordinary levels, roulettes and levels. Nevertheless, in the range of each manufacturer there are frontier solutions that combine previous ergonomics and new features - Bosch was no exception. The laser range finder PLR 15 is a device with a familiar electronic control circuit, but at the same time with a modern operating principle.
Instrument Overview
This is a range finder for domestic use, focused on solving typical tasks for measuring distances. The model is made in the traditional style of Bosch construction tools. The green color of the case again hints at belonging to an unprofessional niche, the design itself was optimized to modest sizes, and the controls were extremely simplified compared to rangefinders of a higher level. As the name implies, the device is capable of taking measurements at a distance of up to 15 m. At the construction site, of course, this may not be enough for full-fledged work, but indoors is quite acceptable. In general, it can be stated that German developers offer a reliable and ergonomic Bosch PLR 15 laser range finder in use. Its price is 3 thousand rubles. It may seem excessively high, but the convenience and time saved during the measurement process can pay off this investment.
Rangefinder Power
If that separates the technical and operational style of this instrument from the general Bosch concept, this is a power system. The manufacturer not only adheres to the most advanced technological solutions in the construction market, but also sometimes sets the fashion for ideas that are most often positively encountered by the consumer. At the same time, electronic measuring tools and electric hand-held devices for drilling, cutting and other operations have long been switching to battery power sources. In turn, the Bosch PLR 15 laser rangefinder is powered by alkaline-manganese batteries. A special compartment is provided for them in the case, complemented by convenient clips.
Why is this solution inferior to batteries? Firstly, it is not rational in terms of financial costs. With regular use, lithium-ion blocks are more economical. Firstly, the battery is more practical and reliable, since with timely charging, the user can forget about the power system for several days, while the batteries that the Bosch PLR 15 laser range finder is equipped with can fail at a time when you do not expect this.
Specifications
The model is still different from many competitive counterparts in a number of operational operating parameters. This applies to functionality and display design. But more technical specifications will help to get acquainted with the capabilities of the device:
- Range of measurement - 15 m.
- The laser wavelength is 635 nm.
- Laser level - 2.
- The number of reporting points is 1.
- Measurement error - 3 mm.
- Battery voltage - 1.5 V.
- Battery size - AAA.
- The number of batteries is 2.
- Weight - 0.08 kg.
- The dimensions of the device are 20.5 x 10 x 5.5 cm.
When evaluating the device for the appropriateness of its purchase to perform specific tasks, it is important to consider several nuances. Firstly, a range of 15 m is conditional - we can say Bosch’s marketing move. The laser range finder PLR 15 makes a small offset of approximately 15 mm, from which the measurement begins. To eliminate this indentation and achieve a full 15 m, the user will also have to acquire a special reflector for rangefinders - they are in the manufacturer's assortment. Secondly, this model is not intended for tourism and hunting. Its optimal place of operation is indoors or outdoors in a secure environment.
Technological features
Despite serious limitations, the device has something to boast of in terms of functionality and technological support. It is enough to note the possibility of data visualization. The range finder reflects all measurements taken on a small display, connecting the backlight and a clear indication to the process. There are also proprietary design features. In this part, the rubberized body pads deserve attention, which minimize the risk of the device falling out of your hands even when making sudden movements. The main working advantage is the speed of action of the Bosch hardware filling. The laser rangefinder PLR 15 measures in less than a second - the official documentation says about 0.5 seconds. However, depending on the conditions, this value can also be increased up to 3-4 seconds.
Positive reviews
Many users of the rangefinder indicate a successful combination of simple design, ergonomics and accuracy of measurements. The device turned out to be small, but effective and efficient. It is worth noting the quality of the details of which the Bosch PLR 15 laser range finder is made. Reviews emphasize that, although the model is not intended for operation in harsh field conditions, the body copes with external influences with dignity, while maintaining the integrity of the element base.
Negative reviews
The main claim to the model comes down to low functionality. Today, even budget laser devices, for example, support the possibility of automatic verification. In this case, it is absent, as well as a set of options for working with data obtained during measurements. Many note the cost at which the Bosch PLR 15 laser range finder is sold on the domestic market. The price in Moscow reaches the already mentioned 3-3.5 thousand. Indeed, experienced craftsmen will also give this amount for the quality of the device and the accuracy of the measurements. However, many of them can be stopped by the presence on the market of equally attractive quality models with a wider range of functions.
Operation process
To control the device provides only one button in the form of a switch. With its help, the range finder is turned on, bringing the laser beam into operation. Then the corresponding inscription of the indicator - LASER will appear on the display. From this moment, you can start the measurement. Until the command to fix the current value is given, the user can freely select the distances he needs - the laser will not stop its action. At the same time, the user can monitor the current data through the screen, which is provided with the Bosch PLR 15 laser range finder. The manual notes that this result is dynamic and changes in accordance with the movements of the operator, observing time distances of 0.5 seconds. When the necessary points for measuring the distance are found, you will also need to move the switch. After that, the result will be saved by the device.
Conclusion
The device, for all its shortcomings, deserves attention - at least from the side of home masters. It is easy and convenient to glue wallpapers, fasten cabinets, install panels and mount structures using such a device. The main thing is to use the Bosch PLR 15 laser rangefinder correctly. The price, which averages 3 thousand, should not be particularly embarrassing. Nevertheless, the reputation of Bosch as a manufacturer of high-quality and technological tools in this case is confirmed by the users themselves. Another thing is that there are some complaints about the lack of individual functions, but at home they are often not particularly necessary.