Newcon Optik LRM 2500, LRM 2500CI Operation Manual

Operation Manual

LRM 2500 / LRM 2500CI

LASER RANGE FINDER

MONOCULAR

105 Sparks Ave., Toronto, ON M2H 2S5, Canada

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Read prior to activation

You have just purchased a sophisticated electro-optical device
that emits invisible laser radiation. To operate it properly, please
read this manual carefully.

 NEVER direct laser beam at the eyes of people or animals

 NEVER aim the unit at the Sun or bright sources of light

 NEVER subject the unit to impacts

 NEVER transport the unit without its case

 NEVER disassemble the unit. This may be hazardous for

you due to high voltage currents in the system

 ALWAYS keep the unit out of children’s reach

 ALWAYS remove the battery when the device is not in use

for a long period

 ALWAYS store in a dry place

 Caution - use of controls or adjustments, or performance of

procedures other than those specified herein may result in
hazardous radiation exposure

 Caution - use of optical instruments such as monocular,

loupes, mirrors, lenses, etc. with this product increases eye
hazard

 Note: Avoid eye exposure to direct laser beam or its close

reflection

 Prevent bright light from focusing through the eyepieces

 Never aim the unit at highly reflective objects like mirrors

and retroreflective surfaces, which are in close proximity to
the laser rangefinder. This can lead to the permanent
damage of the photoreceiver incorporated into the device.

ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. BRIEF DESCRIPTION 2

2. DEVICE APPEARANCE 4

3. DELIVERY SET 7

4. SPECIFICATIONS 8

5. OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 10

Using the Device 11

Factors affecting measuring distance 12

Target selection logic 13

Operation and service modes 14

Accuracy correction 16

Compass calibration (CI model only) 18

Setting interface format (CI model only) 18

Gating mode 19

Data Recall mode 20

Computer interconnectivity 21

GPS interconnectivity (CI model only) 22

Short mode switching scheme 22

6. BEST MEASURING TECHNIQUE 23

7. STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE 25

8. TROUBLESHOOTING 26

9. WARRANTY 27

10. CUSTOMER SUPPORT 28

11. QUALITY CERTIFICATE 29

CAREFULLY READ ALL THE INSTRUCTIONS PRIOR
TO USE!

FAILURE TO OBEY THE INSTRUCTIONS WILL VOID

THE WARRANTY AND MAY CAUSE INJURY!

1. BRIEF DESCRIPTION

LRM 2500 / LRM 2500CI Laser Rangefinder Monocular
(The unit) is an advanced laser range finder system that enables
instant distance, speed, vertical and horizontal angular
measurements. An outstanding optics provides a sharp, clear
image under any observation conditions.

The unit utilises time-of-flight method of distance and speed
measurement. The System sends invisible, eye safe laser
pulses to the target. The returned pulses are captured by the
digital circuitry. The time difference is used to calculate the
distance to the target. A built-in digital compass measures an
angle between the optical axis and direction to the magnetic
North Pole.

The unit complies with CFR 21, Part 1040.10 and Part 1040.11.

A built-in inclinometer allows elevation angle measurements
and height (depth) calculations.

2

Key Features of the LRM 2500/2500CI Laser Rangefinder
Monocular

 Modern digital circuitry allows targeting through most

types of glass

 First, last or the most reflective target acquisition

 Meters/Yards/Mils/Degrees/KMH/MPH display

 Last 10 measurements recall

 Selectable reticle shape (+ or  )

 Gating capability

 Speed detector

 Accurate digital compass (CI Model only)

 Accurate digital inclinometer (CI Model only)

 RS-232 bidirectional communication

 GPS interoperability with PLGR/DAGR protocol (CI

Model only)

3

2. DEVICE APPEARANCE

6

5

7

4

3

2

1 – Eyepieces 2 – Objective lens

Fig. 1.1 Front view

1

3 – Laser emitter lens 4 – Receiver lens

5 – M (Mode) button 6 – A (Action) button

7 – Body of the device 8 – Rubber grip

4

12

10

Fig. 1.2 Rear view

1 – Eyepiece 11 – Identification imprint

9 – Battery compartment cover 12 – Classification imprint

10 – Tripod socket

5

8

5

6

1

7

4

Fig. 2 Display

1 – Low battery indicator

3 – Units of measurement 4 – Measurement result

5 – Gating indicator 6 – Laser active indicator

7 – Ready mode indicator 8 – Setup mode indicator

2 – Reticle (either -¦- or )

3

6

3. DELIVERY SET

Standard delivery set for LRM 2500CI includes:

Qty

LRM 2500CI

Carrying case

Neck strap

Cleaning cloth

User’s manual

Warranty card

RS-232 Computer cable

CD with communication software

9V non-magnetic Lithium battery

1 pc.

1 pc.

1 pc.

1 pc.

1 pc.

1 pc.

1 pc.

1 pc.

1 pc.

Optional items

GPS cable

Hard Case

Exact delivery set depends on details of a contract or purchase
order.

7

4. SPECIFICATIONS

Optics

Magnification 7x

Objective lens diameter 25 mm

Exit pupil diameter 3.6

Field of view

8

Type of coating Fully multi-coated optics

Dioptre adjustment range ±4

Range Finder

Laser Class 1, eye safe, 905 nm

Measuring range 10 – 2,500 m

Accuracy and display resolution

First, last and auto target

1 m

Yes

selection

Meters / Yards display Yes

Last 10 measurements recall Yes

Reticle

Gating capability 100 - 2,500 m; 100 m step

Speed Detection

Measured speed range 5-400 km/h or 3-250 mph

-¦- or 

8

Accuracy

Compass (CI Model only)

 1 km/h or mph

Measured azimuth range

Accuracy

6400 mils /360

±1

Inclinometer (CI Model only)

Measured elevation range

Accuracy

±60

±1

Height measuring Yes (Meters or Yards)

Power

Battery 9V Lithium (non-magnetic)

Battery capacity Min 5,000 measurements

(Scanning regime)

'Low Battery' indicator Yes

Environmental

o

Operational temperature range -25…+50

Storage temperature range -45…+65

C (-13…+122oF)

o

C (-49…+149oF)

Mechanics

Tripod thread ¼” x 20 TPI

Weight without battery 452g / 460g (CI)

Weight with hard case

2.2 kg

Dimensions 127x125x60 mm

9

5. OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS

To install a battery:
 Slide the battery compartment cover down (9, Fig.

1.2)

 Install the battery observing polarity

 Don’t apply superfluous strength while pushing the

battery inside the compartment.

 Close the compartment cover

If the battery does not fit the compartment easily, it means
that either polarity was reversed or the battery contacts
are jammed.

To take a battery out:

 Slide the battery compartment cover down (9, Fig.

1.2)

 Shake the rangefinder gently towards the open end of

the battery compartment

 Pull out the battery

Note: Battery in metal casing will diminish compass
accuracy. Non-magnetic batteries should be used for the
utmost compass performance.

LRM 2500/2500CI is equipped with battery monitoring
sensor. If display shows “LOW BATTERY” warning
when battery voltage falls below 6.5V this indicates that

10

the battery is used up. You can still get readings, but the
battery needs to be replaced soon.

Using the Device

The LRM 2500/2500CI operational procedures are design
to allow the user to use most applicable options in the
fastest time possible. To activate it, press and hold Action
button (6, Fig.1.1) for one second. At start the unit comes
into Ready to Measure mode indicated by the word
‘READY’ on the display visible through the eyepiece.

Pressing Action button (6, Fig. 1.1) again will initiate
measurement procedure. The results of measurement are
displayed in default form of “Distance (M), Azimuth
(mils) and Elevation (mils)” measurement parameters also
can be modified to user preference (see Setup Mode).

If results of measurement are unreliable four dashes

(‘----‘) will be displayed in the area (4, Fig. 2).

Pressing Mode button (5, Fig. 1.1) gives the user the
options to change settings from Factory default to specific
modes required by user. For full list of Mode options
please refer to Operation and Service modes

If the target is located below the unit the result of vertical
measurement (elevation or height) will be preceded with
minus (“-“) sign.

11

Factors affecting measuring distance

Though maximum measurement distance depends on
target reflectivity, weather conditions and other
conditions, for most targets the unit will provide accurate
ranging for up to 2,000 meters. Under good conditions a
large size target can be measured up to 2,500 meters.

Target reflectivity depends on its color, surface finish,
size, shape, position in relation to the laser beam, etc.
Bright target colors are more reflective than darks. A
polished surface is more reflective than a rough one.
Larger targets reflect better than small ones. Ranging a
target perpendicular to the laser beam provides better
results than the one positioned at a sharp angle to the
beam.

Weather conditions that influence air transparency (rain,
fog, snow, mist) reduce maximum range. Bright sunny
days will reduce performance as well as IR sun radiation
may cover reflected laser impulses.

While the unit will measure through many glass types,
measuring through glass may reduce accuracy.

Natural hand tremor decreases the accuracy of long
distance ranging. Using of a tripod is highly
recommended.

Note: device may produce false readings when reticle is
aimed at the sun or in ± 20˚ solid angle from the sun.

12

Target selection logic

On its way towards the target the laser beam may be
reflected from various objects, thus decreasing ranging
accuracy. The smaller, the farther, and the less reflective
is the target – the higher is the possibility of obtaining an
incorrect measurement.

To improve accuracy the unit has a built-in target
selection logic that allows user the option of choosing
which target to range: the nearest (‘first’), the farthest
(‘last’), or the most reflective (‘auto’).

This mechanism helps selecting the target when ranging
from behind the bushes, wires, through the falling snow,
or in similar conditions. Furthermore, it enables ranging a
target in front of a bigger object, such as a wire in front of
the wall.

Note: Even with target selection logic the unit may not
always be able to range the desired target as its
reflectivity may be too low to produce enough laser beam
reflections for statistically reliable calculation. Individual
Measurement and Scanning regimes

The unit can operate in two methods: (1) Individual

Measurement and (2) Scanning. In Individual
Measurement method the unit performs single

measurement when Action button is pressed shortly, in
Scanning regime the unit repeatedly measures and
displays results every second while A button is pressed.

13

To activate Scanning regime press and hold Action button
in Ready mode. The unit will work in Scanning regime
while Action button is pressed.

Scanning or Individual Measurement regimes are
available for any selected mode of measurement. When
two or more parameters are measured in Scanning regime
though first result will be displayed, the second and other
results will be shown at the display if Action button is
released. Nevertheless all data is transferred to the PC and
recorded in internal memory, and may be recalled (see
Data Recall mode for details.)

Operation and service modes

Pressing Mode button (5, Fig.1.1) in Ready mode
switches the unit between modes of operation, to activate
any desired mode from the menu you must confirm your
selection by pressing Action button (6, Fig.1.1).The unit
has the following modes of operation:

 Ready – Unit is ready to perform measurements
 dFLt – sets default mode of operation with factory

settings,

 GAtE – allows to set gating distance for

measurement

 Std – allows the user to select single action

measurements:

o Distance only (d)

14

o Compass Only (C) 1
o Elevation Only (E)

1

o Speed Only (S)
o Height Only (H)

1

o Speed + Distance (Sd)
o Distance +Compass + Elevation (dCE)

1

 Unit – allows the user to select units of desired

measurements,

o Distance from M to Y
o Compass & Elevation from Mils to

Degrees

o Speed from KMH to MPH*
*note this option is only available if Std
Speed is selected

 rEc – allows data recall of the last 10 measurement

results,

o CLr – Clears all Measurement

 SEt – allows the user to select the following

advanced options:

o FrSt – First Target Measurement
o LASt – Last Target Measurement
o AUtO – Last Target Measurement*

1

o PLGr – Communication to PLGR

GPS*

o PC – Communication to PC*
o Reticule – Change reticule from +

(cross) to  (rectangle)

15

o CAL – Compass calibration

▪ CALc – compass calibration

(CI model only)

▪ Corr – accuracy correction of

active measurement parameters

*not shown in the menu if currently selected

– available for CI model only.

1

Accuracy correction

If the System produces any measurement errors that lie
beyond unit specification, it may be an indication that unit
requires calibration similar to one conducted at
production level. To do accuracy correction, please select
Corr from CAL menu.

Perform correction according to required measurement
parameters by pressing Action button, see table below:

Active mode of

Correction

measurement

Condition

parameter

(Std)

1

S, Sd, d

Distance

Install unit at 1 meter

2

from flat target

C, E

Azimuth and

elevation

16

Put unit in a level plane
and aim it to the North

3

direction

Distance,

p

Install unit at 1 meter

2

from flat target

1

dCE

azimuth and

elevation

controlling its level

osition and direction to

the North

1 – Accuracy of correction will depend on accuracy of
installation against target. If distance is 0.9 meters, then
unit will have 0.1 m offset during all future
measurements.

2 – Target should not have high-reflective surface (white
color is not considered high reflective in this case.

3 – Unit shall be well levelled with deviation from 0 not
more than ±0.75 degrees. Horizontal direction shall be to
Magnetic North (not True North). If devices detects large
installation errors (unit is not well levelled or not aimed to
the North), then LCD will show result “444” and “99”,
which means that correction was not performed due to
incorrect setup.

17

Compass calibration (CI model only)

If the System was exposed to a strong magnetic field or
was not in use for a long time, the compass accuracy may
diminish.

To return the compass into working condition:

 Select CALc from CAL menu

 Keeping the unit horizontally, perform one full

rotation around vertical axis within half a minute and
then one full rotation around vertical axis with device
upside down during half a minute.

 If one rotation does not restore calibration – perform

two rotations.

The normal compass functioning will be restored.

Setting interface format (CI model only)

In this mode data communication standard is set. The unit
can output measurement data via RS-232 port in either
PC format (description of the proprietary format can be
obtained from Newcon upon a request) or in the format
accepted by PLGR / DALGR.

To select required data format:

 Select PLGr or PC from SEt menu

 Pressing Action button will activate PC or PLGR

format, the display name of format that can be
activated will be shown.

18

Gating mode

In this mode gating function is activated: here user can set
the minimal distance to the target, any object closer than
the gating distance will be ignored.

To select Gating Mode:

 Select GAtE from mode menu

Minimal gating distance of 000 m will be initially set,
further pressing M button will increase gating distance by
100 m up to 2,400 m. When the desired distance is
reached – select it by pressing Action button.

OVER 100M – indicates that gating is active

To deactivate gating choose gating value zero.

Note: The gating distance can only be increased. To exit
the gating selection cycle without setting any gating
distance click through full gating range with M button or
hold M button for 2 seconds.

Gating feature helps measuring remote targets in
unfavourable atmospheric and environmental conditions
by eliminating reflections from snowflakes, raindrops,
industrial wires, tree branches, etc. At the same time, if
gating distance is set incorrectly, you can remove the
desirable object from measurement range.

19

Data Recall mode

In Data Recall mode results of the last 10 measurements
can be displayed.

Measurement results are saved in on-board memory in
sets depending on the parameters set for measuring, for
instance, if only distance is measured - the set will consist
of one number, if distance and azimuth are measured –
the set will consist of two numbers.

To enter Data Recall mode select rEc from mode
menu. First measurement set number (display name: rEc

1) will start flashing.

Pressing M button moves the unit along the list of
measurement set numbers and measurement results:

rEc 1, distance 1, azimuth 1, elevation 1,

rEc 2, distance 2, azimuth 2, elevation 1, …,

rEc 0, distance 0, azimuth 0, elevation 0.

Measurement sets are numbered in reverse order: first
recalled set is the result of the last measurement. If any
parameter has not been actually measured it will not be
recalled.

Pressing A button at any moment within the list of
recalled results brings the unit to Ready to Measure mode.

Choosing cLr at the end of recalled data will erase the
device memory.

20

Computer interconnectivity

The unit supports RS-232 interface. Physical connection
is performed through connector with threaded coupling
mechanism, designed for the heavy-duty outdoor
applications.

Note: Do not apply excessive force when disconnecting
cable. Damage to cable or connector resulting from
improper treatment is not covered by warranty.

To attach the cable to the rangefinder match the key on
the plug (1) with the corresponding key on the socket and
then push gently the plug holding it by its casing (3) until
click.

1 - Key

2 - Release thread

3 - Rubber casing

3

2

To detach the cable slide sleeve (2) away from the unit
and pull the plug out.

The communication port must be initiated prior to
connecting the unit to the computer. The data is
transmitted as hex string code with fixed baud rate of
38400 bit/sec, 8 bits, one stop bit, and no parity.

1

This connector is IP67 graded.

21

GPS interconnectivity (CI model only)

LRM 2500CI can transmit the acquired data to a GPS
receiver using DB15 connector and PLGR/DAGR
protocol. An optional cable is required.

To work with GPS, perform the following steps:

 Switch the rangefinder to PLGr mode;

 Choose dFLt measuring mode;

 Connect the rangefinder and GPS unit with the cable.

For each measurement GPS will display the absolute
coordinates of your target.

Note: If the rangefinder is not set initially to dFLt
mode, the GPS will not operate properly.

Note: GPS unit automatically adjusts coordinates to
reflect actual magnetic declination. Therefore,
coordinates displayed on the GPS may differ from those
calculated by the computer.

Short mode switching scheme

Upon request, your LRM 2500CI rangefinder may be
manufactured with reduced functionality. This version is
easier to use, and it is beneficial for users planning to
work with GPS only. The short mode switching scheme
does not transmit data in PC software format.

Note: The rangefinder can be programmed for the short
or full mode switching scheme at the factory only.

22

6. BEST MEASURING
TECHNIQUE

Laser range finder measures distance by catching laser
beam reflected from the target. Everything that improves
reflection increases the measurement reliability and
maximum range.

1. Use tripod when ranging remote targets. The longer

is the distance, the greater is the beam shift due to
hand tremor.

2. Aim at a surface on the target that is the closest to

perpendicular to the laser beam. The closer you get –
the stronger will be the reflection.

3. The unit deploys sophisticated software that tries to

understand which target you are aiming at. However,
due to beam divergence several objects may produce
a strong reflection. To help the System recognise the
target the Target Selection Logic may be used. For
example, if ranging a wire in front of a building,
selecting the “first” target selection logic from set
will produce a more reliable result. Alternatively,
when aiming at a chimney behind the trees, selecting
“last” target will be better. By default the System
assumes “auto” target selection, that is, the object
producing the most reflections will be considered a
target.

23

4. Another way to improve reliability of measurement is

to use gating mechanism. If gating is active
reflections from all objects closer than the gating
distance will be ignored. This is especially effective
when ranging in unfavourable atmospheric
conditions, that is, in the rain, fog, haze or in the
bright sun. Gating provides better results than the
“last” target selection, but it requires preliminary
rough distance estimation to cut off all objects closer
than the chosen one.

Note: Gating setting is remembered by the System until
altered. Therefore, if you forget to turn the gating off, the
next time you start measuring it can ignore the desired
object, if it is closer than the gating distance. The unit will
display four dashes instead of the measurement results.
“Over 100 meters” display indicator shows active gating.

24

7. STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE

The unit is a sophisticated precision optical instrument
equipped with laser and electronics. Therefore, it should
be handled with due care.

 Keep away from direct sunlight.

 Avoid impacts, jolts, dust, moisture, and sharp

changes of temperature.

 Do not use the device at temperatures higher than

o

C (122oF).

50

 Do not touch optical surfaces. Doing so may damage

the anti-reflection coating.

 Clean optical surfaces only with professional camera

lens cleaning supplies.

 Clean the exterior of the unit with a soft clean cloth.

 Keep the unit away from heating appliances and

central heating.

 Remove the battery when storing the device for long

time.

 All repair works must be performed by an authorized

service.

25

8. TROUBLESHOOTING

Ranging does not work. The display is transparent.

Check the charge of the battery. Replace it if it is weak.

Ranging does not work. The display indicates results of
the last measurement.

Wait for 8 seconds until the display becomes transparent,
and press the Action button again.

Black dots are visible on LCD.

Liquid Crystal Display may have small black dots,
scratches and other blemishes inherited from the
manufacturing process. These flaws are strictly regulated
by number, area and location and do not degrade the
product's measurement capabilities.

Range measurement cannot be obtained.

 Make sure that neither your hand nor finger is

blocking objective lens, laser emitting lens or
receiver lens.

 Hold the unit firmly (avoid hand tremor) while

pressing the Action button.

 Check that the target is within measuring range

of the device and the gating mode does not cut it
off.

26

9. WARRANTY

NEWCON warrants this product against defects in
material and workmanship for one year from the date of
the original purchase. Longer warranty is available,
subject to the terms of the specific sales contract. Should
your Newcon product prove to be defective during this
period, please deliver the product securely packaged in its
original container or an equivalent, along with the proof
of the original purchase date to your Newcon Dealer.

Newcon will repair (or at its option replace with the same
or comparable model), the product or part thereof, which,
on inspection by Newcon, is found to be defective in
materials or workmanship.

What This Warranty Does Not Cover:
NEWCON is not responsible for warranty service should

the product fail as a result of improper maintenance,
misuse, abuse, improper installation, neglect, damage
caused by disasters such as fire, flooding, lightning,
improper power supply, or service other than by a
NEWCON Authorized Service.

Postage, insurance, and shipping costs incurred while
presenting your NEWCON product for warranty service
are your responsibility.

If shipping from North America please include a cheque
or money order payable to NEWCON OPTIK for the
amount of US$15.00 to cover handling and return
shipping.

27

10. CUSTOMER SUPPORT

Should you experience any difficulties with your
NEWCON OPTIK product, consult the enclosed manual.
If the problem remains unresolved, contact our customer
support department at [phone] or toll free at 1­877-368-6666. Our operating hours are 9am-5pm,
Monday - Friday, Eastern Standard Time. At no time
should equipment be sent back to Newcon without
following the instructions of our technical support
department.

NEWCON OPTIK accepts no responsibility for
unauthorized returns.

To locate NEWCON Authorized Dealer call:

Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Web: www.newcon-optik.com

The defective products should be shipped to:

US customers:

2498 Superior Ave. Cleveland, OH 44114

All other countries:

105 Sparks Ave., Toronto, ON

M2H 2S5, CANADA

28

11. QUALITY CERTIFICATE

Serial number _____________________________

The unit indicated above has passed the quality

inspection.

Production date

Quality Inspector

Purchase date

29

R1 – 2.11

NEWCON OPTIK Printed in Canada