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Describes the special battery pack, its Ni-MH cells, capacity, and internal charging capabilities.
Details the mains charger's LED indicators, charging procedure, and recommended initial charge time.
Instructions for mounting the laser on a level surface and its suitability for indoor/outdoor use (IP54).
Explains power on/off, auto-leveling time, and how to adjust rotational speed using control buttons.
Details how to use the scan mode for interior setting-out with adjustable line angles and dot options.
Covers the dual-grade facility, manual override for setting slopes in X, Y, or both axes.
Explains the ADS function to maintain accuracy by stopping rotation if the laser is disturbed.
Instructions for using the remote control and laser detector, including setup and potential environmental interference.
Essential safety guidelines for operating the laser, complying with class 2 laser procedures.
Recommendations for maintaining the laser, preventing damage, and proper storage for longevity.
Lists technical performance data including accuracy, operating range, and remote control range.
Provides company contact details, including address, phone, email, and website for support.
The Fukuda FRE-301R is a red beam, rotary laser kit designed for various leveling and grading tasks, both indoors and outdoors. It features automatic leveling for horizontal and vertical applications, a scan function for interior setting-out, and a dual-grade facility for setting slopes. The laser is powered by a rechargeable Ni-MH battery pack and can also operate with alkaline batteries in an emergency. It comes with a remote control and a laser detector to enhance its functionality and range.
The core function of the Fukuda FRE-301R is to project a visible, rotating red laser beam for precise leveling and alignment. Once powered on, the laser undergoes an auto-leveling process, typically taking about 20 seconds, before the head begins to rotate continuously. This rotation creates a visible laser plane that can be used for various applications.
The device supports both horizontal and vertical auto-leveling. For vertical leveling, the laser is positioned on its side, a configuration often referred to as "Laydown." This versatility allows the FRE-301R to be used for a wide range of construction and surveying tasks.
A key feature is its dual-grade facility. This allows the user to switch the laser to "Manual" mode, overriding the internal level sensors, to set a specific grade or slope. Grades can be set independently for the X-axis, the Y-axis, or for both axes simultaneously. The maximum settable slope is approximately a 1m fall over 10m. Case markings on the top of the laser body indicate the direction of the axis being set for X and Y alignment.
The FRE-301R also includes a "SCAN" function, primarily for interior setting-out. This function allows the user to project a stationary laser dot or lines of specific angles (10, 45, 90, 180 degrees). These lines can then be moved around the room using dedicated buttons on the keypad or remote control.
An important safety and operational feature is the Automatic Drift System (ADS). Once the laser is ON and rotating in auto-leveled mode, the ADS can be activated. If the laser is knocked or subjected to external disturbances like strong winds, the laser head will stop rotating, and a green ADS LED will flash rapidly, signaling an alarm condition. This prevents inaccurate readings due to accidental movement. The system can be reset to auto-level by pressing the ADS button again. It's crucial to note that the ADS function cannot be set when the laser is in Grading mode.
The FRE-301R is designed for ease of use with several control options. Power ON/OFF is managed by a black button. The rotational speed of the laser head is variable in four increments, controlled by a yellow speed control button. Pressing this button stops the red dot and then cycles through increasing rotational speeds up to a maximum of 600rpm. Slower speeds are recommended for interior work to make the beam easier to see by eye, while the maximum speed is ideal for exterior groundworks when used with the laser detector to achieve the best working range.
The laser should be mounted on a generally level, firm surface or a 5/8″ threaded tripod. For correct operation, this surface must be within +/-5 degrees of true horizontal. The device is waterproof to IP54, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
The battery pack, located in the base of the laser, is removed and refitted via a central, finger-tight screw, requiring no tools. It contains four "sealed for life" Ni-MH type C, 4000mAh, 1.2V cells. The battery pack can be charged either while installed in the laser or externally. The supplied mains charger typically charges the batteries in about 7 hours, providing approximately 40 hours of continuous use. It takes 4 to 5 charge/discharge cycles for the battery packs to reach their maximum capacity. A spare battery holder is available as an optional extra, allowing the use of four type C, 1.5V Alkaline batteries in an emergency. However, these alkaline batteries must not be recharged.
The mains charger connects to a rubber-protected socket on the battery pack. When plugged into a 230V mains supply, a red LED flashes every 1 second. Once connected to the battery pack, this LED should be continuously ON (red for charging, green for sufficient charge). Even with a green light, a full 6-hour charge is recommended. The laser can be operated while the charger is connected to the mains supply. Upon receiving a new laser, it is suggested to charge the batteries fully for 5-6 hours.
The remote control significantly enhances usability. It allows for setting rotating speed, scan angles, scan line position, and switching between auto/manual (grade) settings. It also provides four arrow buttons for setting X/Y grades. Using the remote control is often preferred over the instrument's keypad to avoid disturbing the laser's sensitive mechanism.
The laser detector, supplied with a 9V battery, powers up via an ON/OFF button. It has a button to switch the sounder's volume ON or OFF and a middle button to set coarse (+/-2mm) or fine (+/-1mm) red pick-up window resolution. A rear LCD repeats the main front display. The detector can be used with or without its staff mounting bracket. When using the detector, it should be faced towards the rotating laser to "find" the beam via its red pick-up window. Care should be taken to shield the detector window with a cupped hand if the sun is low or shining directly into it, as this can cause false readings. While the FRE-301R itself can be in full sun without issue, the detector window can be affected by direct bright sunlight or reflections.
The FRE-301R is designed to be a durable and accurate measuring device, and proper care is essential for its longevity. Users are advised to prevent the laser from receiving severe knocks, bangs, or vibrations. When not in use, the laser and its accessories should be stored in the supplied carry case.
If the device becomes wet, it should be thoroughly dried before storage. It should be stored in temperatures between 5-30 degrees Celsius. For long-term storage, it is important to remove all batteries to prevent internal damage from potential leaks or discharge.
The manual emphasizes that there are no user-serviceable parts within the device. Attempting to service the device yourself would void the warranty. For any calibration, repair, or further information, users are directed to contact the service department. This ensures that any maintenance or repair work is carried out by qualified professionals, preserving the device's accuracy and functionality.
General| Laser Wavelength | 635nm |
|---|---|
| Protection Rating | IP54 |
| Weight | 1.2kg |
| Battery Type | AA |
| Power Supply | 4 x AA batteries |
