Distance measuring device laser light source - has optics emitting light beam in measuring range optics projecting reflected light onto detector
The device for measuring distances has a laser light source with a first optical system with which a laser beam is emitted in the direction of a measuring range. There is also a positionally sensitive light detector and a second optical system with which light, reflected by an object in the range, is projected onto the detector. A supply circuit excites the laser source and is controlled by a signal which can vary the intensity of the emitted light rays within predetermined limits. The detector is connected to an intensity detecting circuit producing an output signal whose strength is related to the intensity. This light intensity dependent signal is compared in a threshold value circuit, to stimulate the supply circuit. Thus with an intensity dependent signal over the threshold value, the laser source provides a relatively high power for measuring purposes.