• Leica DISTO S910 User Manual
• Leica DISTO S910 Quick Start Guides

The integrated digital Pointfinder in the device has an overview camera and additional 1x, 2x and 4x zoom. The current zoom level is displayed in the middle of the status bar, with the overview being represented by a magnifying glass icon. To change from one zoom level to the next press the “up/down arrow keys” or “pinch/stretch” with your fingers on the touchscreen as you do on mobile phones. The left and right arrow keys will adjust the brightness of the screen in this mode.

Can I take photos with the Leica DIST0™ S910 and what is the resolution?
Yes, it is possible to take photos and save screenshots. The photos have a resolution of 800 x 600 pixels and screenshots have a resolution of 240 x 400 pixels. The photos and screenshots are saved in jpg format.

How can I transfer photos from the Leica DIST0™ S910 to a computer?
Photos and screenshots can be transferred to a computer via USB interface. The DISTO™ will automatically connect (plug and play). The data can then be downloaded from the DISTO™ by using a file manager such as Windows Explorer.
Note: It is not possible to upload data from the computer to the DISTO™ nor is it possible to delete files located on the Disto from the computer. Files can be deleted by using the DISTO™ Gallery function.

Can the brightness in the digital Pointfinder be adjusted?
Yes, you can change the brightness with the left and right arrow keys on the keypad.

Why is the laser dot not centered in the crosshair at short distances?
Because the laser exit is not in the same axis as the camera there will be parallax error. This causes the laser to deviate from the crosshairs at short distances. The S910 utilizes advanced software which detects the laser dot and corrects the crosshair on the display accordingly. This also works in conditions with strong ambient light where the laser dot is not visible to the naked eye, ensuring the user is measuring to the laser dot independently of any parallax error.

How accurate is the tilt sensor in the Leica DISTO™ S910?
The accuracy of the tilt sensor in the device is ±0.1° to the housing of the device. To the laser beam the maximum deviation can be up to -0.1° and +0.2°. This applies at room temperature (68°F - 86°F). At any other temperatures the maximum deviation increases by ±0.1°.

What units of tilts are integrated into the Leica DISTO™ S910?
The Leica DISTO™ S910 can be set to use 4 different tilt units. In the Settings menu select “Units inclination” and choose between degrees(°) , percent( %), pitch (in/ft) and slope(mm/m).

-> The level function in the right hand top corner of the display can also be switched on/off in the settings “level”. It is always set to 0.0° (degrees) and can not be changed into a different unit for tilts.

What is the angular range of the tilt sensor in the Leica DISTO™ S910?
The integrated tilt sensor in the Leica DISTO™ S910 functions through the entire 360° range and at a transverse tilt of up to ±10°.
If the device is held at > ±10° transversely, the info code “i156” appears in the display indicating the device is tilted too far sideways.

Can the tilt sensor of a Leica DISTO™ S910 be calibrated by the user?
Yes, the zero level of the integrated tilt sensor can be recalibrated. In the Settings menu select the calibration icon. You will be guided through the following process.

Follow this procedure to recalibrate:

1) Place the unit on a flat surface with the display facing up.

2) Carry out the first measurement by pressing “ON/DIST” key on a level surface. The device confirms the measurement.
3) Turn the device horizontally by 180 degrees.

4) Carry out the second measurement by pressing “ON/DIST” key on a level surface. The device confirms the measurement.
5) Pick the unit up and then place it the laser pointing up on an absolutely flat surface.
6) Carry out the third measurement by pressing “ON/DIST” key on a level surface. The device confirms the measurement.
7) Keeping the laser up on the flat surface, rotate the device horizontally by 180° while keeping it in the same location on the flat surface.
8) Carry out the fourth measurement by pressing “ON/DIST” key on a level surface. The device confirms the measurement.
9) After 2 Sec. the device goes back to the basic mode and you have completed the calibration procedure.

Note: The calibration process can be completed with the display facing up or down to the surface. A better accuracy in the calibration procedure is achieved having the back of the unit down on the surface and the display up.

How do I fold out the smart base on the Leica DISTO™ S910?
If a red ring is visible midway up the smart base this indicates the smart base is locked, ensuring that the smart base is not engaged/ activated during normal measurements. In order to unlock the smart base, slide the sleeve on the smart base toward the front of the instrument. You can now easily fold out the base. To lock, return the smart base to the closed position, rotate the foot to align with the base of the Disto, and slide the sleeve toward the outward end of the smart base.

What is the purpose of the plate in the front pocket of the holster?
For accurate measurements it is essential to work from a stable position and to ensure that the smart base is not moved between measurements. The plate (smart base extension) slides on the smart base to provide a larger area of support.

Why must I level the Disto prior to using certain functions?
If measurement results should refer to a horizontal plane (e.g. absolute measurements or measurements to use in CAD systems) the instrument must be calibrated right before measuring. By doing so, errors from slightly inclined measuring bases are automatically compensated for. The range for this levelling is +/- 5°.

What is the measuring accuracy expected when using the smart base?
The rotational accuracy of the smart base has a tolerance of +/-0.1°. In practical applications (typical accuracy) the deviation on a 10m measuring distance is about 10mm, on 5m it is 5mm and on 3m it is 3mm. The accuracy is roughly 1/1000^th of the distance to the farthest point. Higher accuracies on shorter distances are possible.

How can I increase the measuring accuracy of the S910 when using the Smart Base?
Provide a stable support. We recommend a Leica tripod (ideally TRI70, 100 or 200).

Use care when targeting the measured points. The FTA360-S adapter, which can be used alone or with the Leica tripods mentioned above, allows fine adjustment of the lasers direction.

Trigger measurements from the Touchscreen. (Use the function symbol above the DIST key, reducing the movement of the Disto S910 during the critical measurement period.)

Which views do I get when using the DXF data capture function?
Depending on the measurements taken, you will receive 2 or 3 different DXF files:
- 2DG --> this is the floor plan (view from the top)
- 2DW --> this is the front view. This file will only be created if between first and second measurement the horizontal movement was at least 10cm. Otherwise no horizontal axis can be defined for presentation.
- 3D --> this is the 3D drawing

What is the criteria for defining the axes in the DXF files?
The first measured point is the reference for the drawing. The second point defines the x-axis. The y-axis and z-axis are perpendicular to the x-axis and are also referenced to the horizontal plane (levelling).
An exception to this would be if the horizontal distance between the first and second measured point is less than 10cm. In such case the DISTO™ will be the reference in the drawing and the direction to the first measured point will be the x-axis.

How do I capture photos when using the DXF data capture function?

When the pointfinder is switched on photos will be transferred or saved.

How can I download DXF files and respectively delete them on the device?
The three .dxf files (with photos if pointfinder is switched on) will be saved on the DISTO™ in one folder each. These files or the folder can be easily loaded from the DISTO™ to a computer using a USB cable. In order to delete the files and folders on the DISTO™ you must use the corresponding function on the DISTO™ itself.

When measuring a corner angle in a rectangular room, the result is not 90°. How can this be?
This function is measuring the angle between three points. If they are not all in the same horizontal plane (the same height, or distance from the floor/ground) the angle will differ from 90 degrees. To measure the room angle correctly, you should take all three measurements in the same horizontal plane (the same distance from the ground/floor).

Which area is measured when using the Smart Area Function?
The area given by the outline of the measured points will be measured. So if the area is inclined as it is e.g. on a roof of a building the real area will be measured. Note: All points must be on the same plane.

Can I measure the area of a rounded room?
The area of a rounded room cannot be measured exactly. Since the Disto S910 is able to measure areas with up to 30 corners a good estimate can be achieved by measuring several points along the arc.

Is it possible to obtain detailed information about the measurements taken?
Yes, it is possible to obtain additional detailed information with the Leica DISTO™ S910. If more detailed information is available this will be indicated by the appearance of two small arrows in the center of the status bar at the top of the display. Navigate with the up and down arrow keys to view the available detailed information.

The Leica DISTO™ S910 includes functions for measuring with a picture. What is the accuracy of such measurements?
The accuracy highly depends on how the function is used. Best results are achieved when the measuring object is displayed maximum size on the screen of the DISTO S910™. In such cases the error is less than 1% of the measured object. This applies for width, area and diameter measurements.

What accessories are recommended for the Leica DISTO™ S910?

Leica Tripod TRI70, TRI100, TRI200
For measuring longer distances we highly recommend the use of a tripod. A tripod enables to aim precisely on targets even for longer distances. We also recommend using the tripod together with the FTA360-S adapter for best results.

Leica TRI70
This is a compact tripod with a lower working height. It is 45cm long (folded) and very compact.

Leica TRI100
This tripod includes a tripod head and features a taller working height.

Leica TRI200
This is a compact construction tripod with a ¼“screw for fixing DISTO™ adapters or for use with line lasers. This tripod provides the highest level of stability.

FTA360-S Adapter
In order to achieve higher accuracy we are offering the tripod adapter FTA 360-S with fine adjustment for convenient and accurate aiming. This adapter is designed to be used as a tripod head (TRI 70, TRI 100 and TRI 200) or can simply be placed on a flat ground.
When used with the smart base the measuring reference on the DISTO™ will be switched automatically.

Target Plate
For measurement outdoors and in very bright conditions it is helpful to use a reflective target plate. We offer different versions in our accessory range.

What is the measuring accuracy when using the direct horizontal measuring function?
For example, if a distance of 10m is measured at an angle of 10°, the error on uncertainty on measurement on the direct horizontal distance (fd) is 3mm.

To obtain optimum results with the direct horizontal distance measurements, considering the deviation of the tilt sensor, use the Leica DISTO™ S910 as flat as possible.

The horizontal distance error (fd) and the height error (fh) can be calculated as follows:

fd = horizontal distance error
fh = error in height
d = measured distance
a = angle at which the distance is measured
fa = possible angular error

fd = d * cos (a) – d * cos (a + fa)
fh= d * sin (a) – d * sin (a + fa)

Can the historical storage memory of 30 values in the device be erased?
Yes, the memory in the device can be erased by pressing the delete button when in the memory. All memory values will be deleted.

Can I enter a value that is constantly added / subtracted to my measured value? (Offset)
Yes, in the “Settings” you can go to the “Offset Icon” and enter a value that will constantly be added / subtracted from your measured distance value. If an offset value is entered you will see the offset symbol - a triangle with plus or minus next to the laser symbol.

-> If you want to set the offset value back to zero, enter the setting “Offset” and reset it.

How do I know if the device is still measuring in the digital Pointfinder mode?
When using the digital Pointfinder in any function, especially in the Long Range (LR) Mode, you will see a clock icon on the top of the display. The clock stays in the display until the measurement is finished. Take care to not move the device until the clock disappears!

How can I get one extra year of warranty for the Leica DISTO™ S910?
Our standard warranty of 2 years can be extended by one additional year if you register your device at http://www.disto.com/ within eight weeks of the purchase date. If the product is not registered, a two year warranty applies.

What does it mean when I attempt a measurement but the unit shows a number on the display versus my measured value?
This is a message/error code. The following error numbers are displayed if a successful measurement could not be performed. The user can possibly correct the error situation to achieve a successful measurement.

How can I activate the keypad lock?
To activate the keypad lock, Select Settings, then the lock icon and turn the keypad lock on. To deactivate the keypad lock, press ON/DIST key and within 2 sec the plus/minus key.

How can I deactivate the keypad lock?
To deactivate the keypad lock press the ON/DIST key and then(within 2 Sec.) the plus/minus key. Now the keypad lock is deactivated and the device is switched on.

Measuring with tripod – adjusting the reference.
The measuring reference has to be adjusted to the tripod thread. In the Function Screen select the reference icon and change the measuring reference to tripod. After switching off the device goes back to the standard setting (rear of device).

What is measured with the height tracking?
The height tracking function displays an indirect height estimate based on the inclination and distance measured a reference point. It is a useful function when the height cannot be measured directly (such as the top of a tree) or if several points on the same vertical line need to be measured eg. Power pole attachment points.

What does ISO 16331-1 tested mean?
When products and services meet our expectations, we tend to take this for granted and be unaware of the role of standards. However, when standards are absent, we soon notice. We care when products turn out to be of poor quality or are unreliable or dangerous. An ISO Standard ensures consistent quality and reliability for a product.
The range and accuracy of laser distance meters depend greatly on lighting conditions and the reflective properties of the target object. For Leica Geosystems it is important that the performance of the device is maintained not only in the test laboratory but even more so on everyday site tasks. Therefore we have worked with external experts to develop a global standard for the testing and specification of laser distance meters that will allow realistic comparisons between devices of different manufacturers. Instruments tested in accordance with ISO 16331-1 achieve their promises. Further information can be found on our website:www.disto.com.

How can I program my favorite (mostly used functions) on the self programmable keys?
Press the left or right top key for about 2 seconds. An overview (“Favorites”) with all functions appears on the display. Choose the preferred function and press then the left or right top key you want to use to select the function. The favorite is now saved.

What Bluetooth technology is integrated in the Leica DISTO™ S910?
The Leica DISTO™ S910 utilizes Bluetooth® SMART (also called low energy, or Bluetooth 4.0). The device functions with Smartphones or tablets that have Bluetooth® 4.0 integrated or are Smart Ready. The operating system must also support this Bluetooth® standard. Current versions of iOS, Android 4.3 or newer, and Windows 8 all support Bluetooth 4.0.

Can I send measurement data from a Leica DISTO™ S910 to Apple mobile devices?
Yes with the Leica DISTO™ S910 it is possible to communicate with Apple mobile devices. Send measurement data to iPhone (iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c), iPad3, iPad 4, iPad mini, iPod touch (Gen. 5). (--> Bluetooth® 4.0)
It is also possible to use DISTO™ supporting apps from the app store (use App mode in DISTO™ device) and to connect the DISTO™ in the Bluetooth manager as a keyboard device where you can send the measurement data to the cursor position in any app (use text or spreadsheet mode in DISTO™ device).
The corresponding modes on the DISTO™ device need to be set in the Setting menu of the DISTO™ S910.

On my iOS device the keyboard is not showing up in the display once I transfer data from the DISTO™ in keyboard mode.
Press the left favorite key, the center of the icon turns green. Press now the +/- key on the DISTO™. The keyboard in the display of your iOS device will appear.

Can I send measurement data from a Leica DISTO™ S910 to Android devices?
Yes with the Leica DISTO™ S910 it is now possible to send data to Android devices with operating system 4.3 or higher and Bluetooth 4.0. Apps should support the corresponding Bluetooth® standard (e.g. Leica DISTO™ sketch).

Can I send measurement data from a Leica DISTO™ S910 to Windows computers?
Yes with the Leica DISTO™ S910 it is possible to transfer data to Windows computers. The Leica DISTO™ S910 appears to the computer as a Bluetooth keyboard. After adding the DISTO™ in the device manager as a keyboard device (required first time only), you can then send the measurement data from the DISTO™ to the cursor position in any program (use text or spreadsheet mode in DISTO™ device).
The corresponding modes on the DISTO™ device need to be set in the Setting menu of the DISTO™.
The Windows computer must have the operating system Windows 8.1 or higher and Bluetooth 4.0.

Can I send measurement data from a Leica DISTO™ S910 to a Windows mobile, Windows RT or Blackberry device?
This capability is not available at this time.

My software only supports comma as a decimal marker and not a dot/period. Can I change this on the Leica DISTO™ S910?
Yes. In the settings menu for Bluetooth® press the right selection key to enter the submenu for Bluetooth setting. Select 0.0 or 0,0 from the menu. Note: This setting can only be changed in the text or spreadsheet mode.

Can I add a Tab or Enter character to the end of the character string when transmitting data with the Leica DISTO™ S910?
In the settings menu for Bluetooth® press the right selection key to enter a submenu for Bluetooth setting. Here you can select to append a Tab, Enter, or nothing (none) to the end of the measured value.
Note: This setting can only be changed in the text or spreadsheet mode.

How do I use navigation keys of the DISTO™ S910 to select a given cell in a spreadsheet.
When the DISTO™ S910 is connected via Bluetooth with a smartphone, tablet, or computer the content of the selection keys change to support the Bluetooth communication. The left selection key allows the user to switch on and off the navigation function, so the arrow keys of the DISTO™ can be used for navigation.
Note: This function is available in the text or spreadsheet mode. Availability in the app mode is dependent on the app used.

What is the difference between text or spreadsheet mode?
In the text mode the measurement result will be transferred as shown on the DISTO™ display. This includes units or fractions for feet and inches. In the spreadsheet mode only numbers are transferred without any unit information. Units with fractions will be converted to the corresponding decimal unit. This makes further calculations much easier.

Is it possible to transfer point data (coordinates) and pictures using the Bluetooth® connection?
No, via Bluetooth® it is only possible to transfer distance, area, volume and inclination. For all other data a WLAN connection is required.

How does the WLAN interface between the DISTOS910™ and computer function?
Hotspot Mode: The Leica DISTO™ can act as a hotspot. This mode allows an easy connection from a computer, smartphone or tablet. Please note that with this connection it is not possible for the computer to be connected to another WLAN network at the same time.
Client Mode: Connects the DISTO™ S910 to an existing network. We recommend this mode only for specific applications. It requires the Network Password to be entered on the DISTO™ S910.

What kind of data can be transferred via WLAN connection?
The use of WLAN is only supported in the corresponding data transfer function (Point Data Transmission). When the smart base is retracted, only distances can be measured and transferred. If the smart base is extended, distance, inclination, horizontal and vertical angle of the sensors are transferred. In each case it is possible to transfer the measurement data only (right favorite key) or the data and picture (left favorite key, pointfinder must be activated).

Do I need special software for the DISTO™ data transfer?
When the DISTO™ S910 is used in keyboard mode no special software is required. For all other cases of data transfer, specific software is needed. Leica Geosystems provides DISTO™ transfer and DISTO™ Sketch for various operating systems (iOS, Android, Windows) which can be downloaded at disto.com.

How long does it take to charge the Li-Ion battery of the Leica DISTO™ S910?
This depends on the charger. With the charger supplied with the DIsto, approx. 4hours is required to charge the Li-ion battery.

Is the Li-Ion battery of the Leica DISTO™ S910 replaceable?
The Li-ion battery can be replaced in service cases only. Please contact your dealer for information on having the Li-ion battery replaced.

Is it possible to upgrade the software on my Leica DISTO™ S910 device?
Yes. In MyWorld by Leica Geosystems (free, registration required) and on the Website of the DISTO™ S910 you can find the latest version of the DISTO™ software. We recommend keeping your DISTO™ updated with the latest software version.