A datasheet says “±2 mm” or “±(3 mm + 5×10⁻⁵·D)”. Enter the figure and your typical distance to see the real tolerance, and what it does to an area calculation.
Accuracy explainer
Reading a datasheet tolerance
- Typical accuracy is what the headline figure usually means; most manufacturers quote a larger maximum tolerance in the fine print.
- A distance term such as 5×10⁻⁵·D adds 0.05 mm per metre: 5 mm at 100 m.
- None of this covers your own error — a tilted meter, the wrong reference edge, or a dark target that returns a weak signal. The tips guide covers those.