BOSCH 2-15 GCL Professional Combi Laser Instruction Manual

: June 12, 2024
: Bosch

Table of Contents

BOSCH 2-15 GCL Professional Combi Laser
Product Information
Safety Instructions
Product Description and Specifications
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance and Service
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BOSCH 2-15 GCL Professional Combi Laser

Product Information

Product Name: GCL Professional
Manufacturer: Robert Bosch Power Tools GmbH
Model Number: 2-15 | 2-15 G
Product Type: Laser Level
Laser Class: 2
Laser Output Power: < 1 mW
Laser Wavelength: 630 – 650 nm

Product Usage: The GCL Professional is a laser level that can be used for various applications such as aligning, leveling, and squaring. Before using the product, it is important to carefully read the user manual and understand the safety instructions provided. The laser should not be stared into directly and proper eye protection should be used. To use the product, simply turn on the laser and adjust the leveling feet until the bubble level is centered. Then, place the product on a stable surface and adjust the laser beam to align with the desired reference point. The product can also be mounted on a tripod for more precise measurements. Always ensure that the product is turned off and stored in a safe location when not in use.

Safety Instructions

All instructions must be read and observed in order for the measuring tool to function safely. The safeguards integrated into the measuring tool may be compromised if the measuring tool is not used in accordance with these instructions. Never make warning signs on the measuring tool unrecognisable. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE AND INCLUDE THEM WITH THE MEASURING TOOL WHEN TRANSFERRING IT TO A THIRD PARTY.

Warning: If operating or adjustment devices other than those specified here are used or other procedures are carried out, this can lead to dangerous exposure to radiation.

The measuring tool is delivered with a laser warning sign (marked in the illustration of the measuring tool on the graphics page).
If the text of the laser warning label is not in your national language, stick the provided warning label in your national language over it before operating for the first time.
Do not direct the laser beam at persons or animals and do not stare into the direct or reflected laser beam yourself. You could blind somebody, cause accidents or damage your eyes.
If laser radiation hits your eye, you must close your eyes and immediately turn your head away from the beam.
Do not make any modifications to the laser equipment.
Do not use the laser goggles (accessory) as protective goggles. The laser goggles make the laser beam easier to see; they do not protect you against laser radiation.
Do not use the laser goggles (accessory) as sunglasses or while driving. The laser goggles do not provide full UV protection and impair your ability to see colours.
Have the measuring tool serviced only by a qualified specialist using only original replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the measuring tool is maintained.
Do not let children use the laser measuring tool unsupervised. They could unintentionally blind themselves or other persons.
Do not use the measuring tool in explosive atmospheres which contain flammable liquids, gases or dust. Sparks may be produced inside the measuring tool, which can ignite dust or fumes.
Keep the measuring tool and the magnetic accessories away from implants and other medical devices, e.g. pacemakers or insulin pumps. The magnets inside the measuring tool and accessories generate a field that can impair the function of implants and medical devices.
Keep the measuring tool and the magnetic accessories away from magnetic data storage media and magnetically sensitive devices. The effect of the magnets inside the measuring tool and accessories can lead to irreversible data loss.

Product Description and Specifications

Please observe the illustrations at the beginning of this operating manual.

Intended Use

The measuring tool is intended for determining and checking horizontal and vertical lines and plumb points.
The measuring tool is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. This product is a consumer laser product in accordance with EN 50689.

Product Features

The numbering of the product features shown refers to the illustration of the measuring tool on the graphic page.

Laser beam outlet aperture
Battery warning
Pendulum lock indicator
Laser point operating mode button
Laser line operating mode button
Battery compartment cover
Locking mechanism of the battery compartment cover
Guide groove
On/off switch
1/4″ tripod mount
5/8″ tripod mount
Serial number
Laser warning label
Rotating mount (RM 1)
Guide rail
Fastening slot
Magnet
Ceiling clipa)
Universal holder (BM 1)a)
Laser target platea)
Casea)
Inlaya)
Tripod (BT 150)a)
Telescopic shaft (BT 350)a)
Protective baga)
Laser viewing glassesa)
- a) Accessories shown or described are not included with the product as standard. You can find the complete selection of accessories in our accessories range.

Technical Data

The working range may be reduced by unfavourable environmental conditions (e.g. direct sunlight). B) At 20–25 °C
The values stated presuppose normal to favourable environmental conditions (e.g. no vibration, no fog, no smoke, no direct sunlight). Extreme fluctuations in temperature can cause deviations in accuracy.
Only non-conductive deposits occur, whereby occasional temporary conductivity caused by condensation is expected.

The serial number (12) on the type plate is used to clearly identify your measuring tool.

Assembly

Inserting/Changing the batteries

It is recommended that you use alkaline manganese batteries to operate the measuring tool.
To open the battery compartment cover (6), press the locking mechanism (7) and lift open the battery compartment cover. Insert the batteries.
When inserting the batteries, ensure that the polarity is correct according to the illustration on the inside of the battery compartment.

If the batteries become weak, the battery warning indicator (2) will flash green. The laser lines will also flash for approximately five seconds every ten minutes. The measuring tool can still be operated for approximately one hour after the first flash. If the batteries drain completely, the laser lines will flash one more time just before automatic shut-off. Always replace all the batteries at the same time. Only use batteries from the same manufacturer and which have the same capacity.

Take the batteries out of the measuring tool when you are not using it for a prolonged period of time. The batteries can corrode and self-discharge during prolonged storage in the measuring tool.

Working with the RM 1 rotating mount

You can use the rotating mount (14) to rotate the measuring tool 360° around a central, always visible plumb point. This enables you to set up the laser lines without having to change the position of the measuring tool. Place the measuring tool with the guide groove (8) on the guide rail (15) of the rotating mount (14) and slide the measuring tool all the way onto the platform. To disconnect the measuring tool, pull it off the rotating mount in the opposite direction.

Rotating mount positioning options:

Standing on a flat surface,
Screwed to a vertical surface,
On metallic ceiling strips using the ceiling clip (18),
On metallic surfaces using the magnets (17).
Keep your fingers away from the rear side of the magnetic accessory while attaching the accessory to surfaces. The strong pulling force of the magnets may jam your fingers.

Operation

Starting Operation

Protect the measuring tool from moisture and direct sunlight.
Do not expose the measuring tool to any extreme temperatures or fluctuations in temperature. For example, do not leave it in a car for extended periods of time. If it has been subjected to significant fluctuations in temperature, first allow the measuring tool to adjust to the ambient temperature and then always carry out an accuracy check before continuing work (see “Accuracy Check of the Measuring Tool”, page 21). The precision of the measuring tool may be compromised if exposed to extreme temperatures or fluctuations in temperature.
Avoid substantial knocks to the measuring tool and avoid dropping it. Always carry out an accuracy check before continuing work if the measuring tool has been subjected to severe external influences (see “Accuracy Check of the Measuring Tool”,).
Switch the measuring tool off when transporting it. The pendulum unit is locked when the tool is switched off, as it can otherwise be damaged by big movements.

Switching On/Off

To switch on the measuring tool, slide the on/off switch (9) to the On position (for working with the pendulum lock) or to the On position (for working with automatic levelling). As soon as it is switched on, the measuring tool emits laser beams from the outlet apertures (1).

Do not direct the laser beam at persons or animals and do not stare into the laser beam yourself (even from a distance).
To switch off the measuring tool, slide the on/off switch (9) to the Off position. The pendulum unit is locked when the tool is switched off.
Never leave the measuring tool unattended when switched on, and ensure the measuring tool is switched off after use. Others may be blinded by the laser beam.

If the maximum permitted operating temperature of 50 °C is exceeded, the tool shuts down to protect the laser diode. Once it has cooled down, the measuring tool is operational again and can be switched back on.

Automatic Shut-Off

If no button on the measuring tool is pressed for approx. 120 min, the measuring tool will automatically switch itself off to preserve battery life.

To switch the measuring tool back on after it has been automatically switched off, you can either slide the on/off switch (9) to the “Off” position first and then switch the measuring tool back on, or press either the laser point mode button (4) or the laser line mode button (5). Temporarily Deactivating Automatic Shut-Off To deactivate the automatic shut-off function, hold down the laser line mode button (5) for at least 3 s (with the measuring tool switched on). If the automatic shut-off function is deactivated, the laser beams will flash briefly as confirmation.

Note: If the operating temperature exceeds 45 °C, automatic shut-off can no longer be deactivated. To activate the automatic shut-off function, switch the measuring tool off and on again.

Setting the Operating Mode

The measuring tool has several operating modes, which you can switch between at any time:

Cross-line and point mode: The measuring tool generates a horizontal and a vertical laser line as well as two vertical laser points, one facing up, the other down. The laser lines cross at a 90° angle.
Horizontal line mode: The measuring tool generates a horizontal laser line in front of it.
Vertical line mode: The measuring tool generates a vertical laser line in front of it. Positioning the measuring tool in the room displays the vertical laser line on the ceiling beyond the top laser point. If the measuring tool is positioned directly against a wall, the vertical laser line almost encircles the entire space (360° line).
Point mode: The measuring tool generates two vertical laser points, one facing up, the other down.

All operating modes, apart from point operation, can be selected with both automatic levelling or the pendulum lock.

Working with Automatic Levelling

If the measuring tool is outside of the self-levelling range, the laser lines and/or points will flash quickly.
If, during work with automatic levelling, you switch to “working with pendulum lock” mode (on/off switch (9) in position On), the first combination option of this mode’s indicators is always activated.

Working with the pendulum lock

The laser lines continuously flash slowly in “working with the pendulum lock” mode. If, during work with pendulum lock, you switch to “working with automatic levelling” mode (on/off switch (9) in position On), the first combination option of this mode’s indicators is always activated.

Automatic Levelling

Working with Automatic Levelling

Position the measuring tool on a level, firm surface or attach it to the rotating mount (14).
For work with automatic levelling, slide the on/off switch (9) to the ” On” position.

The automatic levelling function automatically levels irregularities within the self-levelling range of ±4°. The measuring tool has been levelled as soon as the laser beams stop flashing. If automatic levelling is not possible, e.g. because the surface on which the measuring tool stands deviates by more than 4° from the horizontal plane, the laser beams will flash quickly.

If this is the case, set up the measuring tool in a level position and wait for the self-levelling to take place. As soon as the measuring tool is within the self-levelling range of ±4°, the laser beams will light up continuously. In case of ground vibrations or position changes during operation, the measuring tool is automatically levelled again. Upon levelling, check the position of the laser beams with regard to the reference points to avoid errors arising from a change in the measuring tool’s position.

Working with a pendulum lock

For work with the pendulum lock, slide the on/off switch (9) to the “ On” position. The pendulum lock indicator (3) lights up red and the laser lines continuously flash slowly. For work with the pendulum lock, automatic levelling is switched off. You can hold the measuring tool freely in your hand or place it on a sloping surface. This means that the laser beams are no longer levelled and no longer necessarily run perpendicular to one another.

Accuracy Check of the Measuring Tool

Influences on Accuracy

The largest influence is exerted by the ambient temperature. In particular, temperature differences that occur from the ground upwards can refract the laser beam. In order to minimise thermal influences resulting from heat rising from the floor, it is recommended that you use the measuring tool on a tripod. In addition, position the measuring tool in the centre of the work surface, wherever this is possible.

In addition to external influences, device-specific influences (e.g. falls or heavy impacts) can also lead to deviations. For this reason, check the levelling accuracy each time before beginning work. First check the height accuracy and levelling accuracy of the horizontal laser line, then the levelling accuracy of the vertical laser line. Should the measuring tool exceed the maximum deviation during one of the tests, please have it repaired by a Bosch after-sales service.

Checking the Height Accuracy of the Horizontal Line

For this check, you will need a free measuring distance of 5 m on firm ground between two walls (designated A and B).

Mount the measuring tool close to wall A on a tripod, or place it on a firm, level surface. Switch on the measuring tool. Select cross-line mode with automatic levelling.
Aim the laser at the closer wall A and allow the measuring tool to level in. Mark the middle of the point at which the laser lines cross on the wall (point I).
Turn the measuring tool 180°, allow it to level in and mark the point where the laser lines cross on the opposite wall B (point Ⅱ).
Position the measuring tool – without rotating it – close to wall B, switch it on and allow it to level in.
Align the height of the measuring tool (using the tripod or by placing objects underneath as required) so that the point where the laser lines cross exactly hits the previously marked point Ⅱ on wall B.
Turn the measuring tool 180° without adjusting the height. Aim it at wall A such that the vertical laser line runs through the already marked point Ⅰ. Allow the measuring tool to level in and mark the point where the laser lines cross on wall A (point Ⅲ).
The discrepancy d between the two marked points Ⅰ and Ⅲ on wall A reveals the actual height deviation of the measuring tool.

The maximum permitted deviation on the measuring distance of 2 × 5 m = 10 m is as follows: 10 m × ±0.3 mm/m = ±3 mm. The discrepancy d between points Ⅰ and Ⅲ must therefore amount to no more than 3 mm.

Checking the Level Accuracy of the Horizontal Line

For this check, you will need a free area of 5 × 5 m.

Mount the measuring tool in the middle between walls A and B on a tripod, or place it on a firm, level surface. Select horizontal line mode with automatic levelling and allow the measuring tool to level in.
At a distance of 2.5 m from the measuring tool, mark the centre of the laser line on both walls (point Ⅰ on wall A and point Ⅱ on wall B).
Set up the measuring tool at a 5 m distance and rotated by 180° and allow it to level in.
Align the height of the measuring tool (using the tripod or by placing objects underneath as required) so that the centre of the laser line exactly hits the previously marked point Ⅱ on wall B.
Mark the centre of the laser line on wall A as point Ⅲ (vertically above or below point Ⅰ).
The discrepancy d between the two marked points Ⅰ and Ⅲ on wall A reveals the actual horizontal deviation of the measuring tool.

The maximum permitted deviation on the measuring distance of 2 × 5 m = 10 m is as follows: 10 m × ±0.3 mm/m = ±3 mm. The discrepancy d between points Ⅰ and Ⅲ must therefore amount to no more than 3 mm.

Checking the Level Accuracy of the Vertical Line

For this check, you will need a door opening (on solid ground) which has at least 2.5 m of space either side of the door.

Place the measuring tool 2.5 m away from the door opening on a firm, flat surface (not on a tripod). Select vertical line mode with automatic levelling. Aim the laser line at the door opening and allow the measuring tool to level in.
Mark the centre of the vertical laser line on the floor of the door opening (point Ⅰ), 5 m away on the other side of the door opening (point Ⅱ) and on the upper edge of the door opening (point Ⅲ).
Rotate the measuring tool 180° and position it on the other side of the door opening, directly behind point Ⅱ. Allow the measuring tool to level in and align the vertical laser line in such a way that its centre passes through points Ⅰ and Ⅱ exactly.
Mark the centre of the laser line on the upper edge of the door opening as point Ⅳ.
The discrepancy d between the two marked points Ⅲ and Ⅳ reveals the actual vertical deviation of the measuring tool.
Measure the height of the door opening.

You can calculate the maximum permitted deviation as follows: Doubled height of the door opening × 0.3 mm/m

Example: At a door opening height of 2 m, the maximum deviation amounts to 2 × 2 m × ±0.3 mm/m = ±1.2 mm. The points Ⅲ and Ⅳ must therefore be no further than 1.2 mm from each other.

Checking Plumb Accuracy

For this check, you will need a clear measuring space on firm ground with a distance of approx. 5 m between the floor and the ceiling.

Mount the measuring tool onto the rotating mount (14) and place it on the floor. Select point mode and allow the measuring tool to level in.
Mark the centre of the top laser point on the ceiling (point I). Also mark the centre of the bottom laser point on the floor (point II).
Turn the measuring tool by 180°. Position it so that the centre of the bottom laser point falls onto the marked point II. Allow the measuring tool to level in. Mark the centre of the top laser point (point III).
The discrepancy d between the two marked points Ⅰ and Ⅲ on the ceiling reveals the actual deviation of the measuring tool from the vertical plane.

You can calculate the maximum permitted deviation as follows: Doubled distance between floor and ceiling × 0.7 mm/m

Example

At a floor-to-ceiling distance of 5 m, the maximum deviation amounts to 2 × 5 m × ±0.7 mm/m = ±7 mm. The points Ⅰ and Ⅲ must therefore be no further than 7 mm from each other.

Working Advice

Only the centre of the laser point or laser line must be used for marking. The size of the laser point/the width of the laser line changes depending on the distance.

Working with the Tripod (Accessory)

A tripod offers a stable, height-adjustable support surface for measuring. Place the measuring tool with the 1/4″ tripod mount (10) on the thread of the tripod (23) or a conventional camera tripod. Use the 5/8″ tripod mount (11) to secure the measuring tool on a conventional building tripod. Tighten the measuring tool using the locking screw of the tripod. Roughly align the tripod before switching on the measuring tool.

Securing with the universal holder (accessory)

You can secure the measuring tool, for example, on vertical surfaces or magnetisable materials using the universal holder (19). The universal holder is also suitable for use as a floor stand and facilitates the height adjustment of the measuring tool.
Keep your fingers away from the rear side of the magnetic accessory while attaching the accessory to surfaces.
The strong pulling force of the magnets may jam your fingers.
Roughly align the universal holder (19) before switching on the measuring tool.

Working with the Laser Target Plate (see figure G)

The laser target plate (20) improves visibility of the laser beam in unfavourable conditions and at greater distances. The reflective surface of the laser target plate (20) improves visibility of the laser line. The transparent surface enables the laser line to be seen from behind the laser target plate.

Laser Goggles (Accessory)

The laser goggles filter out ambient light. This makes the light of the laser appear brighter to the eye.

Do not use the laser goggles (accessory) as protective goggles. The laser goggles make the laser beam easier to see; they do not protect you against laser radiation.
Do not use the laser goggles (accessory) as sunglasses or while driving. The laser goggles do not provide full UV protection and impair your ability to see colours.

Example Applications

Examples of possible applications for the measuring tool can be found on the graphics pages.

Maintenance and Service

Maintenance and Cleaning

Keep the measuring tool clean at all times. Never immerse the measuring tool in water or other liquids. Wipe off any dirt using a damp, soft cloth. Do not use any detergents or solvents. The areas around the outlet aperture of the laser in particular should be cleaned on a regular basis. Make sure to check for lint when doing this.

After-Sales Service and Application Service

Our after-sales service responds to your questions concerning maintenance and repair of your product as well as spare parts. You can find explosion drawings and information on spare parts at: www.bosch-pt.com

The Bosch product use advice team will be happy to help you with any questions about our products and their accessories. In all correspondence and spare parts orders, please always include the 10‑digit article number given on the nameplate of the product.

Malaysia

Robert Bosch Sdn. Bhd.(220975-V) PT/SMY
No. 8A, Jalan 13/6
46200 Petaling Jaya Selangor
Tel: (03) 79663194
Toll-Free: 1800 880188
Fax: (03) 79583838
E-Mail: kiathoe.chong@my.bosch.com
www.bosch-pt.com.my

Great Britain

Robert Bosch Ltd. (B.S.C.)
P.O. Box 98
Broadwater Park
North Orbital Road Denham Uxbridge UB 9 5HJ
At www.bosch-pt.co.uk you can order spare parts or arrange the collection of a product in need of servicing or repair.
Tel. Service: (0344) 7360109
E-Mail: boschservicecentre@bosch.com
You can find further service addresses at: www.bosch-pt.com/serviceaddresses

Disposal

Measuring tools, accessories and packaging should be recycled in an environmentally friendly manner.
Do not dispose of measuring tools or batteries with household waste.

Only for EU countries

According to the Directive 2012/19/EU on waste electrical and electronic equipment and its transposition into national law, measuring tools that are no longer usable, and, according to the Directive 2006/66/EC, defective or drained batteries must be collected separately and disposed of in an environmentally correct manner. If disposed incorrectly, waste electrical and electronic equipment may have harmful effects on the environment and human health, due to the potential presence of hazardous substances.

Only for United Kingdom

According to The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2013 (SI 2013/3113) (as amended) and the Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009 (SI 2009/890) (as amended), products that are no longer usable must be collected separately and disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.

Robert Bosch Power Tools GmbH