1. Introduction and Overview
The NOYAFA NF-518S is a versatile 3-in-1 multi-functional detector designed for various professional and DIY applications. It integrates three core functions: precise wall detection, accurate laser distance measurement, and a digital level. This device helps users safely locate hidden objects within walls, measure distances, areas, and volumes, and ensure level surfaces, making it an essential tool for construction, renovation, and home improvement projects.
Key features include 12 testing modes for diverse scenarios, live voice broadcast for enhanced usability, an HD backlight display for clear readings, and an imported IC with high sensitivity for reliable performance. Its robust two-color mold design ensures durability.
Figure 1: NOYAFA NF-518S Multi-functional Detector highlighting 3-in-1 features, 12 testing modes, 120mm accurate detection, live audio, HD backlight display, and imported IC.
Video 1: Overview of the NOYAFA NF-518S Wall Stud Finder with Laser Rangefinder, demonstrating its key functions and ease of use.
2. Setup
2.1. Charging the Device
The NF-518S is powered by a built-in 390mAh polymer lithium battery. To charge the device, connect a Type-C charging cable to the Type-C charging port located at the bottom of the device (refer to Figure 2 for port location). The battery indicator on the display will show the charging status. Ensure the device is fully charged before first use for optimal performance.
2.2. Powering On/Off
To power on the device, press and hold the "back" button (power/backspace button) located at the bottom center of the control panel. To power off, press and hold the same button. The device also features an automatic shutdown function after 5 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life.
Figure 2: Front view of the NF-518S with labels for buttons and sensors, including the Type-C charging port.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1. Button Functions
- DIST (Laser Meter / Unit Switch): Activates laser measurement modes and switches between measurement units (m/ft/in/ft+in).
- MEAS (Measure / Confirm): Initiates measurements and confirms selections.
- SURVEY (Wall Detection / System Setting): Switches to wall detection mode and accesses system settings.
- Left / Minus (◀): Navigates left or decreases values.
- Right / Plus (▶): Navigates right or increases values.
- back (Power / Backspace): Powers the device on/off, or acts as a backspace/cancel button.
Figure 3: Detailed description of each button and its primary function on the NF-518S.
3.2. Wall Detection Function
The NF-518S can detect various hidden objects within walls, ceilings, and floors. Press the SURVEY button to enter wall detection mode. The device offers three detection modes:
- Metal Detection Mode: Detects magnetic metals (e.g., rebar, steel) up to 120mm deep and non-magnetic metals (e.g., copper pipes) up to 100mm deep.
- AC Power Detection Mode: Detects live AC power cables (90V~250V) up to 50mm deep.
- Wood Wall Detection Mode: Detects wood studs and other wooden objects up to 38mm deep (deep detection mode) or 20mm (accuracy detection mode).
When detecting, move the device slowly across the surface. The HD backlight display will show the detected object type, depth, and signal strength. The live voice broadcast will also provide audio alerts.
Figure 4: Illustration of multiple detection modes and their respective maximum detection depths for wood, power cables, copper, and magnetic metals.
Figure 5: Visual representation of metal detection, showing magnetic metal detection up to 120mm and non-magnetic metal detection up to 100mm.
Figure 6: AC power detection, indicating the ability to detect AC 90V~250V power supply up to 50mm deep.
Figure 7: Wood detection, showing detection of objects like wood, nails, pipes for wire, etc., up to 38mm (deep mode) or 20mm (accuracy mode).
Figure 8: Illustration of the display screen in wall detection mode, showing object depth, angle, battery level, detected material (magnetic metal, non-magnetic metal, AC power, wood), scan line, scan area, and signal strength.
3.3. Laser Measurement Function
Press the DIST button to activate the laser measurement function. The NF-518S supports various measurement modes:
- Single Measurement: Press MEAS to take a single measurement for length, width, or height. The result will be displayed on the screen.
- Continuous Measurement: For real-time distance updates.
- Area Measurement: Measure length (L) and width (W) by pressing MEAS. The device will calculate and display the area.
- Volume Measurement: Measure length (L), width (W), and height (H) by pressing MEAS. The device will calculate and display the volume.
- Pythagoras Theorem Measurement:
- Primary: Measure the hypotenuse and one leg. The device automatically calculates the other leg (height).
- Secondary: Measure the hypotenuse twice and then the length of the right-angle side. The device calculates the height.
- Triangulation Measurement
- Trapezoid Measurement
- Auto Horizontal Measurement
- Auto Vertical Measurement
- Countdown Measurement
- Digital Level Measurement
- Addition and Subtraction: Use the Left/Minus and Right/Plus buttons to perform calculations.
Figure 9: Single measurement mode, demonstrating how to measure length, width, and height by pressing the MEAS button.
Figure 10: Area measurement mode, showing the steps to measure length (L) and width (W) to calculate area.
Figure 11: Volume measurement mode, illustrating how to measure length (L), width (W), and height (H) to calculate volume.
Figure 12: Pythagoras theorem measurement, showing how to measure the hypotenuse and a leg to automatically calculate the height.
Figure 13: Secondary Pythagoras theorem measurement, detailing the steps to measure the hypotenuse twice and the right-angle side to calculate the height.
3.4. Digital Level Function
The NF-518S includes a digital level function with an accuracy of ±90°. This feature allows for precise angle measurements, useful for ensuring surfaces are perfectly horizontal or vertical.
3.5. Data Storage
The device can store up to 50 groups of measurement records, allowing users to review past data as needed.
4. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures (-10℃ to 60℃).
- Battery Care: Recharge the device regularly, especially if it has not been used for an extended period, to maintain battery health. Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently.
- Protection: The device has an IP54 protection level, offering limited protection against dust ingress and water spray. Avoid exposing it to heavy rain or immersion in water.
5. Troubleshooting
- Device not powering on: Ensure the battery is charged. Connect the Type-C charger and try again. If the issue persists, contact support.
- Inaccurate measurements:
- For wall detection, ensure the device is held flat against the surface and moved slowly. Avoid strong electromagnetic interference.
- For laser measurements, ensure the laser is not obstructed and the target surface is reflective enough. Calibrate the device if necessary (refer to system settings).
- Display issues: If the screen is dim or unresponsive, try recharging the device. If the problem continues, contact support.
- Voice broadcast not working: Check the volume settings in the system menu. Ensure the speaker is not obstructed.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Number | NF-518S |
| Function | Laser distance + Wall Detection + Digital level |
| Appearance | 2 colors, solid shape (Two-color mold, tough) |
| Screen Type | 2.4 HD screen, 240*320 resolution |
| Charging | Type-C charging |
| Battery Type | Polymer lithium battery (390mAh) |
| Protection Level | IP54 |
| Audio Broadcast | Live Broadcast |
| Dimension (mm) | 63 × 25 × 139 mm |
| Net Weight (g) | 200 g |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Brand Name | NOYAFA |
| Certification | CE |
| DIY Supplies | Electrical |
| With LCD Screen | Yes |
| Power Type | Rechargeable |
| High-concerned chemical | None |
6.1. Laser Meter Function Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Distance | 0.2 - 40/60m (depending on model variant) |
| Accuracy | ±1.5mm + D*5 out of hundred thousand |
| Laser Type | 630-670nm, <1mW |
| Laser Category | Cat 2 |
| Auto OFF | 3 minutes |
| Unit Switch | m / ft / in / ft+in |
| Benchmark Switch | Front / Bottom |
| Continuously Measurement | Yes |
| Min/Max value | Yes |
| Area Measurement | Yes |
| Volume Measurement | Yes |
| Pythagoras theorem | Yes |
| Secondary Pythagoras theorem 1 | Yes |
| Secondary Pythagoras theorem 2 | Yes |
| Triangulation measurement | Yes |
| Trapezoid measurement | Yes |
| Auto Horizon measurement | Yes |
| Auto Vertical measurement | Yes |
| Countdown measurement | Yes |
| Digital level measurement | Yes |
| Plus / Minus | Yes |
| History Record Storage | 50 groups |
| Self collaboration | Yes |
| Operation Temperature | 0 ~ 40℃ |
| Storage Temperature | -10 ~ 60℃ |
6.2. Wall Detection Function Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Metal Detection Depth (Magnetic) | 12 cm (tested with Φ20 mm stainless pipe) |
| Metal Detection Depth (Non-Magnetic) | 10 cm |
| AC Power Cable Detection Depth | 5 cm |
| Wood Detection Depth | 3.8 cm |
| AC Power Detection | Yes |
| Auto OFF | 5 minutes |
| Operation Temperature | 0 ~ 50℃ |
| Storage Temperature | -10 ~ 60℃ |
6.3. Digital Level Function Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Digital Level | ±90° |
6.4. Package Information
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Package Length | 12 cm |
| Package Width | 5 cm |
| Package Height | 3 cm |
| Package Weight | 0.34 kg |
7. User Tips
While no specific user tips were provided from reviews or Q&A, here are some general recommendations for optimal use:
- For accurate wall detection, ensure the surface is dry and free from excessive dust or debris.
- When scanning, move the device slowly and consistently across the surface to allow the sensors to properly detect objects.
- Always perform a test scan in an area where you know the composition of the wall to familiarize yourself with the device's readings.
- For laser measurements, ensure the laser beam is not obstructed and hits a stable, non-reflective surface for the best accuracy.
- Keep the device's sensors clean and free from obstructions for reliable performance.
8. Safety Warnings
To ensure safe operation and prevent damage to the device or injury, please observe the following warnings:
- Do not intentionally shine the laser light at others in the dark.
- Do not shine the laser at highly reflective objects.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not use this instrument in a flammable or explosive environment.
- Do not use this instrument near medical equipment.
- Do not use this instrument on an airplane.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your NOYAFA NF-518S, please contact NOYAFA customer service through their official channels. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
