How A Golf Laser Rangefinder Works

Golf laser rangefinders work by emitting pulses of infrared light using an Eye Safe Class 1 laser. When the pulses are directed at a target and reflected back they are captured by the receiving optics. By measuring the time from transmission to reception the rangefinder calculates the distance to the target. The quality and reliability of the measurement is determined by the quantity of pulses that have the same time and distance calculation. If the percentage of the same received pulses is not great enough then the unit will fail to register a distance. The quality of the target and pulses can be seen through the LCD display.

A number of factors will influence the actual range you can reliably achieve with any of these units. The strength of pulses are limited on all the units to what has been determined safe for the human eye. Optics (lens) quality, and electronic circuitry and algorithms (the software running the rangefinder) are some of limiting factors of the golf laser rangefinders themselves.

Target reflectivity, target size and orientation play a role in the ability achieve maximum results. Targets with large, light colored, shiny surfaces that are perpendicular to the rangefinder (such as a water or sand hazard) will offer the best measurements. All golf laser rangefinders will typically give measurements beyond their ratings with a good quality target. Small targets with dark, subdued colors, or targets with angles on its surface prevent a high percentage of pulses from being reflected directly back to the rangefinder. In certain instances, targets with these characteristics may not be able to be measured within the rating of the unit.

Bright sunlight will also sometimes diminish the capability of the device. These units perform to their maximum in dim light. Rain, snow, fog, and other weather will affect their performance.

The user also plays a big role in the effectiveness of these Rangefinders. The best measurements are made when the unit is held steady and quality targets are chosen. Rangefinders with greater ratings have higher quality diodes giving the unit much more sensitivity. When your targets are well within the range of a particular unit, a higher rated unit will allow you to acquire the range of a smaller object.  See the Features to Look For link for more information on these capabilities.

Safety

While these products are generally eye safe never point one deliberately at a person's eyes.