PLT 400 01
Original operating instructions
Information about the operating instructions
About these operating instructions
- Warning! Read and understand all accompanying documentation, including but not limited to instructions, safety warnings, illustrations, and specifications provided with this product. Familiarize yourself with all the instructions, safety warnings, illustrations, specifications, components, and functions of the product before use. Failure to do so may result in electric shock, fire, serious injury or death. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
products are designed for professional users and only trained, authorized personnel are permitted to operate, service and maintain the products. This personnel must be specifically informed about the possible hazards. The product and its ancillary equipment can present hazards if used incorrectly by untrained personnel or if used not in accordance with the intended use.
- The accompanying documentation corresponds to the current state of the art at the time of printing. Please always check for the latest version on the product’s page on Hilti’s website. To do this, follow the link or scan the QR code in this documentation, marked with the symbol
.
- The operating instructions must always remain ready to hand at the product. Ensure that these operating instructions are with the product when it is given to other persons.
Explanation of signs used
Warnings
Warnings alert persons to hazards that occur when handling or using the product. The following signal words are used:Symbols in the operating instructions
The following symbols are used in these operating instructions:![]() |
Comply with the operating instructions |
![]() |
Instructions for use and other useful information |
![]() |
Cross-reference |
![]() |
Dealing with recyclable materials |
![]() |
Do not dispose of electric equipment and batteries as household waste |
![]() |
Hilti Li-ion battery |
![]() |
Hilti charger |
Symbols in the illustrations
The following symbols are used in illustrations:![]() |
These numbers refer to the illustrations at the beginning of these operating instructions. |
![]() |
The numbers in illustrations refer to important work steps or to components important for the work steps. In the text, the corresponding numbers draw attention to these work steps or components, e.g. (3) . |
![]() |
Item reference numbers are used in the overview illustration and refer to the numbers used in the product overview section. |
![]() |
This symbol is intended to draw your special attention to certain points for handling the product. |
Product-dependent symbols
Symbols on the product
The following symbols can be used on the product:![]() |
The product supports wireless data transmission compatible with iOS and Android platforms. |
![]() |
Hilti Li-ion battery type series used. Observe the information given in the section headed Intended use . |
![]() |
Li-ion battery |
![]() |
Never use the battery as a striking tool. |
![]() |
Do not drop the battery. Never use a battery that has suffered an impact or is damaged in any other way. |
Labels on the PLT 400
The following labels are applied to the PLT 400:![]() |
Laser radiation. Do not stare into the beam. Class 2 laser. |
Safety
General safety instructions, measuring tools

Keep all safety precautions and instructions for future reference.
Work area safety
- Keep your workplace clean and well lit. Cluttered or poorly lit workplaces invite accidents.
- Do not operate the product in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust.
- Keep children and other persons clear when the product is in use.
- Use the product only within its specified limits.
- Comply with your national accident prevention regulations.
- Do not expose the product to rain or moisture. Penetrating moisture can cause short circuits, electrical shock, burns or explosions.
- Although the product is protected against the entry of moisture, it should be wiped dry before being put away in its transport container.
- Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a measuring tool. Do not use a measuring tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating the measuring tool can result in serious personal injury.
- Avoid unusual body positions. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
- Wear personal protective equipment. Wearing personal protective equipment reduces the risk of injury.
- Do not render safety devices ineffective and do not remove information and warning notices.
- Avoid accidental starting. Make sure that the measuring tool is switched off before connecting it to the battery and before picking it up or carrying it.
- Use the product and accessories in accordance with these instructions and in the way specified for this special type of tool. Take the working conditions and the work to be performed into account. Use of products for applications different from those intended could result in hazardous situations.
- Do not lull yourself into a false sense of security and do not flout the safety rules for measuring tools, even if you are familiar with the measuring tool after using it many times. Carelessness can result in serious injury within a fraction of a second.
- Do not use the measuring tool in the vicinity of medical devices.
- Use the product and accessories only when they are in perfect working order.
- Store measuring tools out of reach of children when not in use. Do not allow persons who are not familiar with the product or these instructions to operate it. Measuring tools are dangerous in the hands of inexperienced persons.
- Measuring tools need care and attention. Check that moving parts operate satisfactorily and do not jam, and make sure that no parts are broken or damaged in such a way that the measuring tool might no longer function correctly. Have damaged parts repaired before using the measuring tool. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained measuring tools.
- Do not under any circumstances modify or tamper with the product. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Hilti may restrict the user’s authorization to operate the product.
- Check the accuracy of the measuring tool before using it for important measurements, and if it has been dropped or subjected to other mechanical stresses.
- Due to the measuring principle employed, the results of measurements can be negatively affected by certain ambient conditions. These include, for example, the proximity of devices that produce strong magnetic or electro-magnetic fields, vibrations and temperature changes.
- Rapidly changing measuring conditions can falsify the results.
- When the product is brought into a warm environment from very cold conditions, or vice-versa, allow it to become acclimatized before use. Big differences in temperature can lead to incorrect operation and incorrect results.
- When adapters or accessories are used, make sure they are mounted securely.
- The measuring tool is designed for the tough conditions of jobsite use, but as with other optical and electrical products (e.g. binoculars, spectacles, cameras) it must be handled with care.
- The specified operating and storage temperatures must be observed.
Additional safety instructions for laser measuring tools
- Laser radiation in excess of Class 2 can be emitted if the product is opened without correct procedure being followed. Have the product repaired only by Hilti Service.
- Secure the area in which you will be taking measurements. While setting up the product, make sure that you do not direct the laser beam toward yourself or others. Laser beams should be projected well above or well below eye height.
- Keep the laser exit window clean in order to avoid measurement errors.
- Check the accuracy of the product before use and several times during use.
- Readings taken in the vicinity of reflective objects or surfaces, through panes of glass or similar materials can falsify the result of measurement.
- Mount the product on a suitable holder or bracket or on a tripod, or set it on a smooth, level surface.
- Do not work with surveyor's staffs in the vicinity of high-voltage electricity cables.
- Make sure that no other laser measuring tool that can influence your measurements is in use in the vicinity.
- Do not permit the laser beam to project beyond the controlled area.
Laser classification for Class 2 laser products
The device complies with Laser Class 2 in accordance with IEC60825-1/EN60825-1:2014. These products can be used without further protective measures.Electromagnetic compatibility
Although the tool complies with the strict requirements of the applicable directives, Hilti cannot exclude the following possibilities:- The tool may cause interference to other devices (e.g. aircraft navigation equipment).
- The tool may be negatively affected by powerful electromagnetic radiation, possibly leading to incorrect operation.
Additional safety instructions
- Before starting measuring work, make sure that the accuracy of the measuring tools used is adequate for the requirements of the task.
- When a tripod or wall mount is used, make sure that the measuring tool is correctly and securely mounted and that the tripod is standing firmly on solid ground.
- As a precaution, check the previous settings or any adjustments you may have made.
- Fasten the battery compartment cover carefully so that the battery doesn’t fall out. If battery contact is lost the PLT 400 will switch itself off, possibly leading to loss of data.
- Operation of the measuring tool in the vicinity of military installations, airports or radio astronomy facilities is not permissible unless prior permission has been obtained.
- When switching distance measuring mode from prism measurement to reflectorless measurement, make sure that no one can look into the lens of the PLT 400.
- Do not point the PLT 400 or accessories toward the sun or other powerful light sources.
- Measurements to plastic foam surfaces, e.g. polystyrene foam, to snow or to highly reflective surfaces, etc. may result in incorrect readings.
- Measurements taken to surfaces with low reflectivity in highly reflective surroundings may be inaccurate.
- Use of setting-up / adjusting devices and equipment or operating procedures other than those specified in these instructions may lead to exposure to hazardous radiation.
- Always observe the operating instructions and warnings given in the applications displayed.
Careful handling and use of batteries
- Comply with the following safety instructions for the safe handling and use of Li-ion batteries. Failure to comply can lead to skin irritation, severe corrosive injury, chemical burns, fire and/or explosion.
- Use only batteries that are in perfect working order.
- Treat batteries with care in order to avoid damage and prevent leakage of fluids that are extremely harmful to health!
- Do not under any circumstances modify or tamper with batteries!
- Do not disassemble, crush or incinerate batteries and do not subject them to temperatures over 80 °C (176 °F).
- Never use or charge a battery that has suffered an impact or been damaged in any other way. Check your batteries regularly for signs of damage.
- Never use recycled or repaired batteries.
- Never use the battery or a battery-operated power tool as a striking tool.
- Never expose batteries to the direct rays of the sun, elevated temperature, sparking, or open flame. This can lead to explosions.
- Do not touch the battery poles with your fingers, tools, jewelry, or other electrically conductive objects. This can damage the battery and also cause material damage and personal injury.
- Keep batteries away from rain, moisture and liquids. Penetrating moisture can cause short circuits, electric shock, burns, fire and explosions.
- Use only chargers and power tools approved for the specific battery type. Read and follow the relevant operating instructions.
- Do not use or store the battery in explosive environments.
- If the battery is too hot to touch, it may be defective. Put the battery in a place where it is clearly visible and where there is no risk of fire, at an adequate distance from flammable materials. Allow the battery to cool down. If it is still too hot to touch after an hour, the battery is faulty. Consult Hilti Service or read the document entitled "Instructions on safety and use for Hilti Li-ion batteries".
Description
Overview of the product
Product overview PLT 400

- Carrying handle
- WiFi antenna
- Warning sticker
- Battery compartment catch
- Battery compartment cover
- Lens cover and laser exit aperture
- Service interface (only for Hilti Service)
- On/off button
- Battery compartment
- Battery
Product overview PLC 400

- Microphone
- Ambient light sensor
- Front camera
- Front camera status indicator
- Volume control
- On/off button
- Display rotation lock button
- System control button
- Operating status indicator
- Data storage status indicator
- Battery status indicator
- Wi-Fi antennas
- Earphone socket
- USB connector
- Docking connector
- Charging socket
- Rear camera
- Rear camera status indicator
- Battery compartment
- Battery compartment catch
- microSD card slot
Intended use
The product described consists of the cordless PLT 400 layout tool and a cordless PLC tablet. The PLC tablet is intended for remote control of the PLT 400. The two components combined form a system. The layout tool is designed to be used for measuring distances and directions, calculating target positions in three dimensions and laying out given coordinates or values relative to a control line.- Use only Hilti Li‑ion batteries of the B 22 series with this product.
- Use only Hilti battery chargers of the C 4/36 series to charge these batteries.
Items supplied
PLT 400, PLC tablet, operating instructions.Other system products approved for use with this product can be found at your local Hilti Store or at: www.hilti.group
Wi-Fi antennas

- When operating the controller, don’t hold it at the sides where the Wi-Fi antennas are located as this reduces its transmitting and receiving performance.
Data link to periphery devices
The software used on the PLC tablet is Hilti PROFIS Layout Field. The Hilti PROFIS Layout Office PC software for data post-edit and export to other systems is available for PCs. Data can be exchanged between these two software products.Data from the PLC tablet can be transferred directly to USB data media.
Technical data
Technical data PLT 400
Weight without battery |
6.2 kg (13.7 lb) |
Rated voltage |
21.6 V |
Maximum site elevation above datum |
2,000 m (6,561 ft - 8 in) |
Operating temperature |
−20 ℃ … 50 ℃ (−4 ℉ … 122 ℉) |
Storage temperature |
−20 ℃ … 70 ℃ (−4 ℉ … 158 ℉) |
Ambient temperature for operation |
−17 ℃ … 50 ℃ (1 ℉ … 122 ℉) |
Degree of protection |
IP55 |
Maximum relative humidity |
90 % |
Rotation speed |
135 °/s |
Telescope repositioning |
3.2 s |
Thread |
5/8 in |
Communication standard |
WiFi, Dual 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band, IEEE 802.11a⁄b⁄g⁄n⁄ac, Enhanced Data Rate |
Maximum emitted transmission power, WiFi for FCC |
24.5 dBm |
Maximum emitted transmission power, WiFi for ETSI |
18.4 dBm |
WiFi frequency range |
2,400 MHz … 2,483.5 MHz | 5,150 MHz … 5,350 MHz | 5,470 MHz … 5,835 MHz |
Maximum emitted transmission power (Enhanced Data Rate) |
9.5 dBm |
Frequency range (Enhanced Data Rate) |
2,400 MHz … 2,483.5 MHz |
Laser distance measurement
Wavelength |
646 nm … 674 nm |
Laser color |
red |
Laser class in accordance with IEC 60825-1 |
2 |
Maximum average power output |
< 1 mW |
Pulse duration |
0.06 ns … 2.5 ns |
Pulse frequency |
3 MHz … 102 MHz |
Beam divergence |
0.1 mrad … 5.5 mrad |
Angle measuring precision (ISO 17123-3)
PLT 400‑2 |
2" (0.6 mgon) |
PLT 400‑4 |
4" (1.2 mgon) |
Distance measuring precision (ISO 17123-4)
Standard |
2 mm + 2 ppm (0.1 in + 2 ppm) |
Prism tracking |
3 mm (0.1 in) |
Reflectorless |
2 mm + 2 ppm (0.1 in + 2 ppm) |
Tracking (LED tracker)
Peak wavelength |
≤ 810 nm |
Typical average radiation intensity at a distance of 20 cm (108 μs/109 Hz) |
3 mW/cm² |
Maximum radiation intensity at a distance of 20 cm |
0.24 mW/cm² |
Maximum pulse duration |
108 µs |
Maximum pulse frequency |
330 Hz |
Beam divergence (2θ1/2) |
20° |
Tracking range POA 25 |
1.5 m … 100 m (4 ft - 11.1 in … 328 ft - 1 in) |
Tracking range POA 20 |
1.5 m … 400 m (4 ft - 11.1 in … 1,312 ft - 4 in) |
Camera
Aperture angle (continuous focus) |
2° … 30° (0.03 rad … 0.5 rad) |
Focus range |
≥ 5 m (≥ 16 ft - 5 in) |
Technical data PLC 400
Weight PLC 400 |
0.55 kg (1.21 lb) |
Degree of protection PLC 400 |
IP65 |
Rated voltage |
7.2 V |
Capacity |
7.1 Ah |
Battery life |
8 h |
Charging time |
4 h |
External data terminal |
USB 3.0 |
Frequency range (Enhanced Data Rate) |
2,400 MHz … 2,483.5 MHz |
WLAN standard |
IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n |
Battery
Battery operating voltage |
21.6 V |
Ambient temperature for operation |
−17 ℃ … 60 ℃ (1 ℉ … 140 ℉) |
Storage temperature |
−20 ℃ … 40 ℃ (−4 ℉ … 104 ℉) |
Battery charging starting temperature |
−10 ℃ … 45 ℃ (14 ℉ … 113 ℉) |
Preparations at the workplace
Observe the safety instructions and warnings in this documentation and on the product.Charging the battery
- Before charging the battery, read the operating instructions for the charger.
- Make sure that the contacts on the battery and the contacts on the charger are clean and dry.
- Use an approved charger to charge the battery.
Inserting the battery
- Charge the battery fully before using it for the first time.
- Push the battery into the product until it engages with an audible click.
- Check that the battery is seated securely.
Removing the battery
- Press the battery release button.
- Remove the battery from the product.
Switching PLT 400 and PLC tablet on
- Switch the PLT 400 and the PLC tablet on.
- Start the PROFIS Layout Field application on the PLC tablet.
- Comply with the notifications and instructions that appear on the display of the PLC tablet.
Care and maintenance
Care and maintenance of the tool- Carefully remove stubborn dirt from the tool.
- Carefully remove dust with a dry brush or cloth.
- Use only a slightly damp cloth to clean the casing. Do not use cleaning agents containing silicone as these may attack the plastic parts.
- Keep the battery free from oil and grease.
- Use only a slightly damp cloth to clean the casing. Do not use cleaning agents containing silicone as these may attack the plastic parts.
- Avoid ingress of moisture.
- Check all visible parts and controls for signs of damage at regular intervals and make sure that they all function correctly.
- Do not operate the cordless tool if signs of damage are found or if parts malfunction. Have the tool repaired by Hilti Service immediately.
- After cleaning and maintenance, fit all guards or protective devices and check that they function correctly.
- Blow dust off the laser exit window.
- Do not touch the laser exit window with your fingers.
Cleaning and drying
- Blow any dust off the glass.
- Use only a soft, clean cloth to clean the tool.
Hilti Measuring Systems Service
Hilti Measuring Systems Service checks the scanning tool and, if deviations from the specified accuracy are found, recalibrates it and rechecks to ensure conformity with specifications. The service certificate provides written confirmation of conformity with specifications at the time of the test. The following is recommended:- Choose a test/inspection interval that matches usage of the device.
- Have the product checked by Hilti Measuring Systems Service after exceptionally heavy use or subjection to unusual conditions or stress, before important work or at least once a year.
Transport and storage of cordless tools
Transport- Remove the battery.
- Never transport batteries in bulk form (loose, unprotected).
- Check tools and batteries for damage before use after long periods of transport.
- Store the tool and battery in a place that is as cool and dry as possible.
- Never store batteries in direct sunlight, on heating units or behind a window pane.
- Store the tool and batteries in a place where they cannot be accessed by children or unauthorized persons.
- Check the tool and batteries for damage before use after long periods of storage.
Disposal

Manufacturer’s warranty
- Please contact your local Hilti representative if you have questions about the warranty conditions.
Further information
Accessories, system products and more information about your product can all be found by following the links below:PLT 400‑4
PLT 400‑2
China RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances)

Hilti Li-ion batteries
Instructions for safety and useThis documentation uses the term battery to describe rechargeable Hilti Li-ion battery packs containing several Li-ion cells joined together. These batteries are to be used in Hilti power tools exclusively. Use only genuine Hilti batteries!DescriptionHilti batteries have cell-management and cell-protection systems.
The batteries are composed of cells that contain lithium-ion storage materials capable of providing high specific energy density. Li-ion cells have a minimal memory effect, but they are very susceptible to external impact, deep discharge, and high temperatures.
The products approved for use with Hilti batteries can be found in your Hilti Store or at: www.hilti.group
Safety
- Comply with the following safety instructions for the safe handling and use of Li-ion batteries. Failure to comply can lead to skin irritation, severe corrosive injury, chemical burns, fire and/or explosion.
- Treat batteries with care in order to avoid damage and prevent leakage of fluids that are extremely harmful to health!
- Do not under any circumstances modify or tamper with batteries!
- Do not disassemble, crush or incinerate batteries and do not subject them to temperatures over 80 °C.
- Never use or charge a battery that has suffered an impact or been damaged in any other way. Check your batteries regularly for signs of damage.
- Never use recycled or repaired batteries.
- Never use the battery or a battery-operated power tool as a striking tool.
- Never expose batteries to the direct rays of the sun, elevated temperature, sparking, or open flame. This can lead to explosions.
- Do not touch the battery poles with your fingers, tools, jewelry, or other electrically conductive objects. This can damage the battery and also cause material damage and personal injury.
- Keep batteries away from rain, moisture and liquids. Penetrating moisture can cause short circuits, electric shock, burns, fire and explosions.
- Use only chargers and power tools approved for the specific battery type. Read and follow the relevant operating instructions.
- Do not use or store the battery in explosive environments.
- If the battery is too hot to touch, it may be defective. Put the battery in a place where it is clearly visible and where there is no risk of fire, at an adequate distance from flammable materials. Allow the battery to cool down. If it is still too hot to touch after an hour, the battery is faulty. Follow the instructions in the section headed What to do in case of a battery fire .
- Always contact Hilti when a battery is damaged.
- Never use a battery that is leaking fluid.
- Avoid direct eye and/or skin contact with fluid leaking from a battery. Always wear protective gloves and eye protection when undertaking tasks involving battery fluid.
- Use a chemical spill cleanup kit to remove leaked battery fluid. Comply with the locally applicable cleanup regulations for battery fluid.
- To store a damaged battery, place the battery in a non-flammable container and cover the battery with dry sand, chalk powder (CaCO3) or silicate (Vermiculite). Then seal the lid air-tight and store the container away from flammable gases, liquids or objects.
- Dispose of the container at your Hilti Store , or consult your local governmental garbage disposal or public health and safety resources for disposal instructions. Comply with the locally applicable regulations for transporting damaged batteries!
- Watch for abnormal battery behavior, such as faulty charging, unusually long charging times, noticeable power loss, unusual LED activity, or leaking fluids. These are signs of an internal problem.
- If you suspect an internal battery problem, contact Hilti Service.
- A battery that no longer works, cannot be recharged or leaks fluid has to be disposed of correctly. See the section headed Maintenance and disposal .
- Provide sufficient venting to permit hazardous and potentially explosive fumes to escape.
- Leave the room immediately in case of intense smoke emission.
- Consult a doctor in case of any skin or respiratory irritation.
- Alert the fire service before you start tackling the fire.
- Use only water to tackle a battery fire and keep as far from the fire as effective extinguishing permits. Powder fire extinguishers and fire blankets are ineffective with Li-ion batteries. Fire in nearby materials can be extinguished with appropriate extinguishing agents.
- Do not try to move large quantities of burning batteries. Instead, isolate the batteries by removing unaffected materials from the immediate vicinity.
- Scoop the battery up with a shovel and drop it into a bucket of water, which will reduce the risk of igniting adjacent cells that have not yet reached run-away temperature.
- Leave the battery in the bucket for at least 24 hours until it has cooled down completely.
- See the section headed What to do in case of damaged batteries .
- Ambient operating temperature to be kept between -17 °C and +60 °C / 1 °F and 140 °F.
- Storage temperature to be kept between -20 °C and +40 °C / -4 °F and 104 °F.
- Do not store batteries on the charger. Always remove the battery from the charger when the charging operation has completed.
- Store batteries in a cool and dry place. Cool storage will increase battery life. Never store batteries where they are exposed to direct sunlight, on sources of heat or behind glass.
- Do not send batteries through the mail. Consult your shipper for instructions on how to ship undamaged batteries.
- Never transport batteries in bulk form (loose, unprotected). During transport, batteries should be protected from excessive shock and vibration and isolated from any conductive materials or other batteries that may come in contact with the terminals and cause a short circuit. Comply with the locally applicable regulations for transporting batteries.
- Keep the battery free of oil and grease. Do not permit dust or dirt to accumulate unnecessarily on the battery. Clean the battery with a dry, soft brush or a clean, dry rag.
- Never use a battery with clogged ventilation slots. Clean the ventilation slots carefully using a dry, soft brush.
- Prevent unnecessary exposure of the battery to dust or debris and never subject the battery to soaking moisture (e.g., submerged in water or left out in the rain).
- If a battery is exposed to soaking moisture, treat it as a damaged battery and isolate it in a non-flammable container.
- See the section headed What to do in case of damaged batteries .
- Improper disposal may cause health hazards from leaking gases or fluids. Dispose of the battery at your Hilti Store , or consult your local governmental garbage disposal or public health and safety resources for disposal instructions. Comply with the locally applicable regulations for transporting damaged batteries!
- Do not dispose of batteries as household waste.
- Dispose of your battery out of the reach of children. Cover the terminals with a non-conductive material (such as electrical tape) to prevent short circuiting.
Declaration of conformity
Declaration of conformityThe manufacturer declares, on his sole responsibility, that the product described here complies with the applicable legislation and standards.The technical documentation is filed here:
Hilti Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH | Tool Certification | Hiltistrasse 6 | D-86916 Kaufering, Germany
Product information
Type |
PLT 400 |
Generation |
01 |
Serial no. |
