1. Introduction
The NOYAFA NF-518S is a versatile 3-in-1 device designed for various detection and measurement tasks. It integrates a stud finder, a laser distance meter, and a digital level, making it suitable for professionals, homeowners, and DIY enthusiasts. This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective operation of your device.

Image 1.1: The NOYAFA NF-518S device highlighting its three main functions: wall detection, laser measurement, and digital leveling.
2. Important Safety Information
WARNING: Class II Laser Product. Output < 1mW.
- Do not stare directly into the laser beam.
- Avoid direct eye exposure to the laser beam.
- Do not attempt to modify or disassemble the device.
- Exercise caution when detecting live AC wires. Always turn off power to the area if possible before drilling or cutting.
- Keep the device away from children.
- Ensure the device is clean and dry before use.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- 1 x NOYAFA NF-518S Multifunctional Detector
- 1 x USB Type-C Charging Cable
- 1 x User Manual
- 1 x Quality Certificate
- 1 x Lithium Battery Precautions Card

Image 3.1: Contents of the NOYAFA NF-518S product box, including the detector, charging cable, user manual, quality certificate, and battery precautions card.
4. Device Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of the NF-518S device:

Image 4.1: Detailed diagram of the NOYAFA NF-518S showing the front, back, and side views with labels for buttons, sensors, display, and charging port. An illustration of the display symbols is also included.
- LCD Backlit Display: Shows detection results, measurements, battery status, and mode indicators.
- Power/Back Button: Turns the device on/off and navigates back in menus.
- MEAS (Measure) Button: Initiates laser measurements.
- DIST (Distance) Button: Switches between laser measurement functions.
- SURVEY Button: Toggles between wall detection modes.
- Left/Minus Button: Adjusts settings or navigates left/decreases values.
- Right/Plus Button: Adjusts settings or navigates right/increases values.
- Laser Emitter/Receiver: For distance measurement.
- Wall Detecting Port: Area for scanning walls.
- Marking Hole: For precise marking of detected objects.
- Type-C Charging Port: For recharging the internal battery.
5. Charging the Device
The NF-518S is equipped with a 390mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery. To charge the device:
- Connect the provided USB Type-C charging cable to the charging port on the device.
- Connect the other end of the cable to a standard USB power adapter (not included) or a computer's USB port.
- The battery indicator on the LCD display will show charging status.
- A full charge typically takes approximately 2-3 hours.
The device can operate continuously for extended periods on a single charge. The backlit display ensures readability in various lighting conditions.

Image 5.1: The NOYAFA NF-518S device being charged via its Type-C port, illustrating the rechargeable lithium battery.
6. Initial Setup and Calibration
The NF-518S features an automatic calibration function for its wall scanning modes. This ensures accurate detection results without manual adjustment.
- Power On: Press and hold the Power button to turn on the device.
- Automatic Calibration: When switching to a wall detection mode, place the device flat against the wall surface where you intend to scan. The device will automatically calibrate itself. Ensure there are no objects or wires directly beneath the device during this initial placement to avoid false readings.
- Mode Selection: Use the 'SURVEY' button to cycle through the different wall detection modes (Wood, Metal, AC Wire). Use the 'DIST' button to cycle through laser measurement modes.
7. Operating Modes
The NF-518S offers three primary operating modes: Stud Finder, Laser Distance Meter, and Digital Level.
7.1. Stud Finder Operation (Wall Detection)
This mode is used to detect wood studs, metal objects (magnetic and non-magnetic), and live AC wires behind walls.

Image 7.1.1: The NOYAFA NF-518S illustrating its capability to detect metal, copper, wood, and wire at various depths within a wall structure.
- Select Mode: Press the 'SURVEY' button to select the desired detection mode:
- Wood Stud Scan: Detects wood studs at depths of 1/2", 1", and 1.5".
- Metal Scan: Detects non-magnetic metals up to 2.4 inches deep and magnetic metals up to 3.2 inches deep.
- AC Scan: Identifies live unshielded wires up to 2 inches deep.
- Placement: Place the device flat against the wall surface. Ensure the device is fully calibrated (as described in Section 6).
- Scanning: Slowly slide the device horizontally across the wall surface. Keep the device flat against the wall without lifting or tilting.
- Detection Indication: The LCD display will show visual indicators (e.g., signal strength bars, object type icon) and an audible alert when an object is detected. The center of the object will be indicated on the screen.
- Marking: Use the marking hole on the device to precisely mark the location of the detected object.
Note:
- Detection depth and accuracy can be affected by wall material, moisture content, and other environmental factors.
- Always scan the area multiple times from different directions to confirm detection.
7.2. Laser Distance Meter Operation
This mode allows for precise distance measurements and various calculations.

Image 7.2.1: The NOYAFA NF-518S displaying its 12 testing modes for laser measurement, including single, area, Pythagorean, and volume measurements, with illustrative diagrams.
- Activate Laser: Press the 'MEAS' button once to activate the laser pointer.
- Take Measurement: Press 'MEAS' again to take a single distance measurement. The result will be displayed on the screen.
- Change Units: Use the Left/Minus or Right/Plus buttons to switch between measurement units (Meters, Inches, Feet).
- Measurement Functions: Press the 'DIST' button to cycle through various measurement functions:
- Single Measurement: Measures the distance from the device to a target.
- Continuous Measurement: Provides real-time distance updates as the device moves.
- Area Measurement: Measures length and width to calculate area.
- Volume Measurement: Measures length, width, and height to calculate volume.
- Pythagorean Measurement: Calculates indirect measurements using the Pythagorean theorem (e.g., height of an object).
- Accuracy: The laser measuring instrument is accurate to ±1/16 inch and covers distances up to 60m/196ft.
7.3. Digital Level and Angle Gauge Operation
This function provides precise horizontal and angle measurements.

Image 7.3.1: The NOYAFA NF-518S showing its digital level function with an angle sensor, indicating a real-time refresh angle of -0.5 degrees.
- Activate Level: The digital level function is typically active when the device is powered on and not in a specific detection or laser measurement mode.
- Angle Display: The LCD display will show the current angle relative to the horizontal plane.
- Angle Range: Measures angles in 2×0~180° or 4×0~90° ranges.
- Buzzer Alert: A buzzer will sound when the device is within ±1° of a horizontal (0°) or vertical (90°) position.
- Accuracy: The angle gauge has a resolution of 0.05° and an accuracy of ±0.1° at 0°/90°/180°, and ±0.2° at other angles.
- Automatic Adjustment: The measured value on the display automatically adjusts for orientation.
8. Data Storage
The NF-518S can store up to 50 sets of measurement data, allowing you to review past readings without needing to re-measure.

Image 8.1: The NOYAFA NF-518S screen displaying multiple stored data sets, indicating its data storage capability and automatic calibration feature.
Refer to the on-screen prompts and the device's menu system to access, save, and recall stored data. Typically, the 'Left/Minus' and 'Right/Plus' buttons are used for navigation within the data storage menu.
9. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Battery: For long-term storage, ensure the battery is partially charged (around 50%) to prolong its lifespan. Recharge periodically if not used for extended periods.
- Water Resistance: The device has an IP54 weather-resistant rating, making it resistant to splashes and dust. However, it is not designed for immersion in water.

Image 9.1: The NOYAFA NF-518S shown with water splashing on it, highlighting its IP54 waterproof rating for use in various environments.
10. Troubleshooting
- Device does not power on:
- Ensure the battery is charged. Connect the device to a power source using the Type-C cable and try again.
- Inaccurate stud/object detection:
- Ensure the device is properly calibrated by placing it flat against the wall before scanning. Scan slowly and consistently. Wall materials, moisture, and nearby electrical interference can affect accuracy. Try scanning from different angles.
- Laser measurement errors:
- Ensure the laser emitter and receiver are clean. Measure to a flat, non-reflective surface. Avoid obstructions in the laser path.
- Display is dim or unreadable:
- Check battery level. The device has a backlit display for improved visibility in low light conditions.
11. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | NOYAFA |
| Model Name | NF-518S |
| Material | Plastic |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion, 390mAh |
| Laser Measuring Range | Up to 60m / 196ft (65.33 yards) |
| Laser Accuracy | ±1/16 inch |
| Wood Stud Detection Depth | 1/2", 1", 1.5" (up to 38mm) |
| Magnetic Metal Detection Depth | Up to 3.2 inches (80mm) |
| Non-Magnetic Metal Detection Depth | Up to 2.4 inches (60mm) |
| AC Live Wire Detection Depth | Up to 2 inches (50mm) |
| Digital Level Accuracy | ±0.1° at 0°/90°/180°, ±0.2° at other angles |
| Data Storage | Up to 50 sets |
| Water Resistance | IP54 |
| Item Package Dimensions | 6.46 x 4.17 x 2.13 inches |
| Package Weight | 0.25 Kilograms |
12. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact NOYAFA customer service directly. Contact details can typically be found on the manufacturer's official website or through your retailer.





