DEWALT DW086-XE, DW087-XE Laser Line Generators
Instruction Manual
Safety Guidelines
Safety Definitions:
- DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
- WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
- CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
- CAUTION: Used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.
General Safety Instructions for Power Tools: Always observe applicable safety regulations to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. Keep these instructions in a safe place.
Safety Instructions for Lasers:
WARNING! Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious personal injury.
WARNING! Laser Radiation Exposure. Do not disassemble or modify the laser level. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Serious eye injury could result.
WARNING: Hazardous Radiation. Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
- Do not operate the laser in explosive atmospheres (e.g., presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust). Power tools create sparks that may ignite dust or fumes.
- Use the laser only with specifically designated batteries. Use of other batteries may create a risk of fire.
- Store idle lasers out of reach of children and untrained persons. Lasers are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
- Use only accessories recommended by the manufacturer for your model.
- Tool service must be performed only by qualified repair personnel.
- Do not use optical tools (e.g., telescope, transit) to view the laser beam. Serious eye injury could result.
- Do not place the laser where anyone could intentionally or unintentionally stare into the laser beam. Serious eye injury could result.
- Turn the laser off when not in use to reduce the risk of staring into the beam.
- Do not disassemble the laser tool; there are no user-serviceable parts inside.
- Do not modify the laser in any way. Modifying the tool may result in hazardous laser radiation exposure.
- Do not operate the laser around children or allow children to operate it. Serious eye injury may result.
- Do not remove or deface warning labels. Removing labels increases the risk of exposure to radiation.
- Position the laser securely on a level surface. Damage or serious injury could result if the laser falls.
WARNING: Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm (e.g., lead, crystalline silica, arsenic, chromium). Reduce exposure by working in a well-ventilated area and using approved safety equipment (e.g., dust masks). Avoid prolonged contact with dust; wear protective clothing and wash exposed areas with soap and water.
WARNING: Use of this tool can generate and/or disburse dust, which may cause serious and permanent respiratory or other injury. Always use NIOSH/OSHA approved respiratory protection appropriate for the dust exposure. Direct particles away from face and body.
Tool Symbols:
- V: Volts
- mW: Milliwatts
- Laser warning symbol
- nm: Wavelength in nanometers
- II: Class II Laser
- IIIa: Class IIIa Laser
Electrical Safety
The electric motor is designed for one voltage only. Always check that the power supply corresponds to the voltage on the rating plate (e.g., 230 V AC). A voltage 10% lower can cause loss of power and overheating. DEWALT tools are factory tested; if the tool does not operate, check the power supply. Your DEWALT tool is double insulated, so no earth wire is required.
- Young children and the infirm: This appliance is not intended for use by young children or infirm persons without supervision. Ensure children do not play with the appliance.
- Replacement of the supply cord: If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or an authorized DEWALT Service Centre to avoid a hazard.
Extension Cords:
CAUTION: Use only extension cords approved by the country's Electrical Authority. Inspect extension cords for loose or exposed wires, damaged insulation, and defective fittings before use. Replace the cord if necessary.
Warning Labels:
The laser includes warning labels such as:
- CAUTION: LASER RADIATION - DO NOT STARE INTO THE LASER BEAM. CLASS II LASER PRODUCT.
- CAUTION: CLASS 2 LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN DO NOT STARE INTO THE BEAM.
Laser Information: The DW086-XE and DW087-XE LaserChalkLine™ Laser Line Generators are Class II laser products and comply with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11 except for deviations pursuant to laser notice No. 50, dated July 26, 2001.
Introduction
The DW086-XE and DW087-XE lasers are self-leveling laser tools used for horizontal (level) and vertical (plumb, DW087-XE model only) alignment projects, both indoors and outdoors.
General Safety Rules For Battery Operated Tools
WARNING! Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious personal injury.
Work Area
- Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
- Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres (e.g., presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust). Power tools create sparks that may ignite dust or fumes.
- Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause loss of control.
Electrical Safety (Battery)
- Use the battery-operated tool only with the specifically designed batteries. Use of any other batteries may create a risk of fire.
Battery Installation
This tool is powered by three 1.5V AA size batteries. To install batteries:
- Lift the battery compartment cover (labeled A in diagrams) as shown.
- Insert three fresh AA batteries, observing the polarity (+ and -) marked inside the battery door.
WARNING: Batteries can explode, or leak, and can cause injury or fire. To reduce this risk:
- Follow all instructions and warnings on the battery label and package.
- Always insert batteries correctly with regard to polarity (+ and -).
- Do not short battery terminals.
- Do not charge batteries.
- Do not mix old and new batteries; replace all at the same time with new batteries of the same brand and type.
- Remove dead batteries immediately and dispose of per local codes.
- Do not dispose of batteries in fire.
- Keep batteries out of reach of children.
- Remove batteries if the device will not be used for several months.
Personal Safety
- Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use the tool when tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication.
- Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long hair. Keep hair, clothing, and gloves away from moving parts. Avoid air vents that often cover moving parts.
- Do not overreach. Maintain proper footing and balance at all times for better control in unexpected situations.
- Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection. Use a dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection as appropriate for the conditions.
Tool Use and Care
- Do not use the tool if the switch does not turn it on or off. Any tool not controlled by the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
- Store idle tools out of reach of children and other untrained persons. Tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
- Use only accessories recommended by the manufacturer for your model. Using accessories suitable for one tool on another may be hazardous.
Service and Repairs
NOTE: Disassembling the laser level will void all warranties.
To assure product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, maintenance, and adjustments should be performed by authorized service centers. Service or maintenance by unqualified personnel may result in injury. To locate your nearest DEWALT service center, call (AUS) 1800 654 155 or (NZ) 09 526 2556, or visit www.dewalt.com.au.
Operating Tips
- Use only new, high-quality, name-brand batteries for best results.
- Ensure batteries are in good working condition. If the low battery red indicator light is flashing, batteries need replacement.
- To extend battery life, turn the laser off when not working with or marking the beam.
- To ensure accuracy, check that your laser is calibrated often. See Field Calibration Check.
- Before use, ensure the laser is positioned securely on a smooth, flat surface.
- Always mark the center of the beam created by the laser.
- Extreme temperature changes may affect accuracy. Check your accuracy often while working. See Field Calibration Check.
- If the laser has been dropped, check its calibration. See Field Calibration Check.
Low Battery Indication
The DW086-XE and DW087-XE lasers have a red indicator light (B, located left of ON/OFF buttons C, D). A flashing red light indicates low batteries that need replacement. The beam may dim before the batteries are fully depleted. After replacing batteries, the beam will return to full brightness, and the light will turn off. (A flashing laser beam itself is not caused by low batteries; see Out of Tilt Range Indicator.)
Operation
To Turn the Lasers On and Off
- DW086-XE: Place the laser on a flat surface. Press the ON/OFF button (C) to power on the laser, projecting a horizontal line. Press the button again to turn it off.
- DW087-XE: Place the laser on a flat surface. This model has two ON/OFF buttons: one for a horizontal laser line (C) and one for a vertical laser line (D). Press the respective button to power each line on or off. Lines can be powered individually or simultaneously.
Using the Lasers
Beams are level or plumb if calibration has been checked and the laser beam is not flashing (indicating it is within the self-leveling range).
Out of Tilt Range Indicator
The DW086-XE and DW087-XE lasers self-level up to an average of 4° tilt. If tilted beyond this range, the laser beam will flash (as shown in diagrams). A flashing beam indicates the tilt range has been exceeded, and the beam is NOT level or plumb. Do not use it for determining or marking level or plumb. Reposition the laser on a more level surface.
Using the Lasers with Accessories
The lasers feature a 1/4" x 20 female thread on the bottom for DEWALT accessories. Use only DEWALT accessories specified for this product and follow their included instructions.
CAUTION: Using other accessories not recommended for this tool could be hazardous.
For assistance locating accessories, contact DEWALT Industrial Tool Co., 701 East Joppa Road, Baltimore, MD 21286, or call (AUS) 1800 654 155 or (NZ) 09 526 2556. See the catalog at www.dewalt.com.au.
Using the Pivot Bracket
The DW086-XE and DW087-XE lasers include a magnetic pivot bracket (E) for mounting to steel surfaces (e.g., framing studs, door frames, beams). The bracket also has a keyhole slot (F) for hanging from a nail or screw. Position the laser and/or wall mount on a stable surface to prevent falls.
Using the Laser with the Wall Mount
The DW0860 Laser Wall Mount offers additional mounting options. It features a clamp (G) for acoustic ceiling installation and a screw hole (H) for attachment to any surface. The wall mount's steel plate allows the magnetic pivot bracket to attach, enabling fine-tuning of the laser's position.
Leveling the Lasers
When properly calibrated, the lasers self-level on a flat surface within an average of ±4° of level. No manual adjustments are required.
Maintenance
- Regularly check the laser's calibration to maintain accuracy. See Field Calibration Check.
- Calibration checks and other maintenance repairs can be performed by DEWALT service centers.
- Store the laser in its kit box when not in use. Avoid storage temperatures below -20°C (-5°F) or above 60°C (140°F).
- Ensure the laser is dry before storing it in the kit box. Dry with a soft, dry cloth.
Cleaning
Clean exterior plastic parts with a damp cloth. Never use solvents. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove moisture before storage.
Field Calibration Check
Checking Accuracy – Horizontal Beam, Scan Direction (Figure 6)
Requires two walls 9 m (30') apart. Conduct check using a distance no shorter than intended application distance.
- Attach laser to a wall, facing straight ahead.
- Turn on the horizontal beam. Pivot the laser approximately 45° so the right-most end of the line strikes the opposing wall at least 9 m (30') away. Mark the beam center (a).
- Pivot the laser approximately 90° so the left-most end of the line aligns with mark (a). Mark the beam center (b).
- Measure the vertical distance between marks (a) and (b).
- If the measurement exceeds the values below, the laser requires service at an authorized center.
Distance Between Walls | Allowable Distance Between Marks |
---|---|
9 m (30') | 3.0 mm (1/8") |
12 m (40') | 4.0 mm (5/32") |
15 m (50') | 5.0 mm (7/32") |
Checking Accuracy – Horizontal Beam, Pitch Direction (Figure 7)
Requires a single wall at least 9 m (30') long. Conduct check using a distance no shorter than intended application distance.
- Attach laser to one end of a wall, facing the opposite end and parallel to the adjacent wall.
- Turn on the horizontal beam. Mark the beam center at two locations (c, d) at least 9 m (30') apart.
- Reposition the laser to the opposite end of the wall.
- Turn on the horizontal beam. Pivot back towards the first end, parallel to the adjacent wall.
- Adjust laser height so the beam center aligns with the nearest mark (d).
- Mark the beam center (e) directly above or below the farthest mark (c).
- Measure the distance between marks (c) and (e).
- If the measurement exceeds the values below, the laser requires service at an authorized center.
Distance Between Walls | Allowable Distance Between Marks |
---|---|
9 m (30') | 6.0 mm (1/4") |
12 m (40') | 8.0 mm (5/16") |
15 m (50') | 10.0 mm (13/32") |
Checking Accuracy – Vertical Beam (DW087-XE Model Only)
Best done with substantial vertical height (ideally 9 m / 30'). One person on the floor positions the laser, another near the ceiling marks the beam. Conduct check using a distance no shorter than intended application distance (Figure 8).
- Mark a 1.5 m (5') line on the floor.
- Turn on the vertical beam. Position the unit at one end of the line, facing it.
- Align and center the beam on the floor line.
- Mark the beam center on the ceiling (f), directly over the floor line's midpoint.
- Reposition the laser at the other end of the floor line. Align and center the beam on the line.
- Mark the beam center on the ceiling (g), next to the first mark (f).
- Measure the distance between marks (f) and (g).
- If the measurement exceeds the values below, the laser requires service at an authorized center.
Ceiling Height | Allowable Distance Between Marks |
---|---|
2.5 m (8') | 3.5 mm (5/32") |
3.0 m (10') | 4.5 mm (3/16") |
4.0 m (14') | 6.0 mm (1/4") |
6.0 m (20') | 9.0 mm (3/8") |
9.0 m (30') | 13 mm (1/2") |
Troubleshooting
The Laser Does Not Turn On
- Ensure batteries are installed correctly (+ and -).
- Ensure batteries are in good working condition; try new batteries if in doubt.
- Check that battery contacts are clean and free of rust or corrosion. Keep the laser level dry and use only new, high-quality batteries.
- If the laser unit is heated above 50°C (120°F), it will not turn on. Allow it to cool before use.
The Laser Beams Flash
The DW086-XE and DW087-XE self-level up to 4° tilt. If tilted beyond this, the laser beam will flash, indicating the tilt range has been exceeded. Flashing beams are NOT level or plumb and should not be used for marking. Reposition the laser on a more level surface.
The Laser Beams Will Not Stop Moving
This can occur if the laser is not positioned on a stable, motionless surface. Try placing the laser on a more stable and relatively flat surface to ensure stability.
Specifications
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
Light Source | Semiconductor laser diode |
Laser Wavelength | 630 – 680nm Visible |
Laser Power | <1mW (each beam) CLASS II LASER PRODUCT |
Working Range | 30m (±100') |
Accuracy (Plumb) | ±6 mm per 9 m (± 1/4" per 30') |
Accuracy (Level) | ±3 mm per 9 m (± 1/8" per 30') |
Indicators | Flashing Indicator: battery low; Flashing Laser: tilt range exceeded |
Power Source | 3 AA (1.5V) size batteries (4.5V DC) |
Operating Temperature | -10°C to 45°C (20°F to 115°F) |
Storage Temperature | -20°C to 60°C (-5°F to 140°F) |
Environmental | Water Resistant |
Guarantee and Service
Three Year Limited Warranty
DEWALT will repair, without charge, any defects due to faulty materials or workmanship for three years from the date of purchase. Return the complete unit, transportation prepaid, to any DEWALT Service Centre or authorized service station. For warranty repair information, call (AUS) 1800 654 155 or (NZ) 09 526 2556.
This warranty does not apply to: Accessories; damage from repairs attempted by others; damage due to misuse, neglect, wear and tear, alteration, or modification.
This warranty provides specific legal rights, and you may have other rights under consumer laws.
Free One Year Service Contract
DEWALT will maintain the tool for free during the first year of purchase, including labor, parts, and lubrication required to restore the product to sound mechanical/electrical condition. Normal wear parts are not covered; carbon brushes worn more than 50% will be replaced.
NOTE: Three Year Warranty is not applicable to consumables. Radial arm saws have a one-year warranty. DEWALT reserves the right to review its warranty policy.
30 Day No Satisfaction Guarantee
If dissatisfied for any reason, return the tool to the point of purchase with your sales receipt within 30 days for a replacement or full refund.
Free Warning Label Replacement
If warning labels become illegible or are missing, call (AUS) 1800 654 155 or (NZ) 09 526 2556 for a free replacement.
Contact Information:
DEWALT Industrial Tool Co.
701 East Joppa Road, Baltimore, MD 21286
20 Fletcher Road, Mooroolbark, VIC 3138 Australia
For service information, call 1-800-4-DEWALT or visit www.DEWALT.com.
Copyright © 2006 DEWALT
Trademarks include the yellow and black color scheme, "D" shaped air intake grill, pyramid pattern on handgrip, kit box configuration, and lozenge-shaped humps on the tool surface.