Skip to content

Pythagoras Modes

Use Pythagoras modes when you cannot measure directly because:

  • An obstacle blocks the laser beam
  • No reflective target surface is available
  • You need to measure heights without access

Pythagoras Modes

  1. Right angles required — The Pythagorean theorem only works with right triangles
  2. Same starting point — All measurements in a sequence must start from the exact same position
  3. Legs < Hypotenuse — If legs exceed the hypotenuse, “Err” will display
  4. Use a tripod — Highly recommended for accurate indirect measurements

Calculate a distance using two measurements.

Enter mode: Press Mode 3 times until the 2-point icon appears.

  1. Measure the first line (hypotenuse) — press A
  2. Rotate to measure the second line — press A
  3. The calculated distance appears in the summary line

Pythagoras 2-Point


Get horizontal and vertical distances plus the hypotenuse using the built-in angle sensor.

Enter mode: Press Mode 4 times until the angle icon appears.

The X angle displays in real-time at the top of the screen.

  1. Aim at the target point
  2. Press A to measure

The device calculates and displays:

  • Hypotenuse (direct line)
  • Vertical distance
  • Horizontal distance

For situations requiring three measurements to calculate the result.

Enter mode: Press Mode 5 times.

  1. Measure the first line — press A
  2. Measure the second line — press A
  3. The calculated distance appears in the summary line

Pythagoras 3-Point


Alternative 3-point configuration for different measurement scenarios.

Enter mode: Press Mode 6 times.

  1. Measure the first line — press A
  2. Measure the second line — press A
  3. The calculated distance appears in the summary line

ModeButton PressesMeasurementsUse Case
Pythagoras 2-point32Basic indirect
Angle + Distance41Heights with angle
Pythagoras 3-point A52Complex indirect
Pythagoras 3-point B62Alternative config
  • Always keep the reference point (back of device) at the exact same position for all measurements in a sequence
  • Use a tripod mount for stability
  • Verify your right angles are truly 90°
  • Take multiple measurements and average them for critical work
  • Direct measurement is always preferred when possible