Haglof Vertex Laser II VL402 Operator's Manual - page 6
Vertex Laser VL402 V1.1 enu
© Haglöf Sweden AB 2010
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THE VERTEX LASER VL402
The Vertex Laser VL402 is a high quality measuring instrument, useful for anyone who needs reliable, fast and
accurate distance-, height- or angle- measuring results. The instrument combines the proven accurate and safe
measuring methods of laser, ultrasound and a tilt sensor into a small, flexible and unique product.
GENERAL INFORMATION: THE VERTEX LASER INSTRUMENT
The Vertex Laser instrument uses laser or ultrasound technology to calculate distance and a high quality tilt
sensor to measure angles. The different measuring methods can be used individually or combined with each
other. The choice of measuring method and technology is up to the operator. In general terms, the ultrasound
method offers more precise results for shorter distances, whereas the laser method will allow longer
distance measuring and a quick presentation of measuring results without having to use a transponder.
Data on heights, distances and angles can be transferred through a built-in Infrared transmitter to a PC or HHC,
for storage and further processing. For transfer of results, a serial IR receiver is available as an optional
accessory to the instrument. Model VL402 also has built-in Bluetooth for transfer of results.
The Vertex ultrasound method uses ultrasonic signals to obtain the exact distance from the measuring
instrument to the T3 transponder. The height is calculated trigonometrically through the distance and the
angle.
The T3 transponder is used when measuring with the Vertex ultrasound technology. The T3
transponder can also be used as a visible reference point when measuring with Laser technology.
The T3 Transponder works both in a 60º mode for direct height measuring, for example pinned
directly to a tree stem; or in a 360º mode when set onto the plot centre staff (art no CPIN), an ideal way to
work when measuring in circular sample plots with the Vertex Ultrasound measuring technique.
The ultrasound measuring technology works also when and if the target is not visible, as in completely or
partially covered. The Vertex ultrasound is very useful when working in circular sample plots, and if the
reference point (centre of plot) is covered by dense vegetation, trees or bushes. When measuring the angle to
the reference point, the horizontal distance can be presented.
Working with relaskopes or prism sometimes offers difficulties if the underbrush is too thick. Poor sighting will
prevent a correct diameter evaluation. With the Vertex Laser instrument’s built in BAF function (Basal Area
Function), the minimum tree diameter for trees to be included in the plot can be featured, when measuring the
distance from the tree to the reference point/plot centre, using the Vertex ultrasound method.
The Laser part of the VL402 instrument emits invisible, eye safe infrared energy pulses that reflect off the
selected target back to its optical receiver. The laser is classified as Class 1 (USA and Canada) and as Class 3a
(EC and other countries). By measuring the time it takes for each pulse to travel from the rangefinder, to the
target and back with sophisticated precision charge circuitry, the instrument instantly calculates distances. The
maximum range of the Laser measuring method depends on the target’s reflectivity, its colour, surface, finish,
shape and size.