Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, July 12, 1994 TAG: 9408030014
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: David Butler
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
A: Yes. An electronic stud detector can sense the underlying wood as you move it across a wall. An indicator tells you when it encounters the leading and trailing edges of the stud so you won't have to guess where the center is. You can also use it to find a joist to hang a ceiling fan. Some detectors can also locate pipes and electrical wiring.
Digital electronics, already commonplace in most consumer products, has now invaded the toolbox. Whether you're a serious do-it-yourselfer or an occasional handyman, electronics can make your projects go smoother and faster. For example, several power tool manufacturers include electronic feedback circuits in selected routers and drills. This not only enables the tool to maintain its speed under load but virtually eliminates start-up torque.
If you spend a lot of time working with wood, you may want to consider a unique miter saw that has a built-in guide light. The tiny laser illuminates the cut path, reducing set-up time and waste while enhancing safety. Laser technology has also found its way into a new generation of leveling tools. A compact laser level allows you to quickly shoot slopes or level a fence or deck with unmatched accuracy.
Another type of precision level uses electronic sensors in lieu of a traditional bubble vial. It calculates the slope in degrees from a horizontal or vertical orientation (the unique digital display always reads ``right side up''). The level also includes a shallow-pitch indicator (1/8 inch to 3/8 inch per foot) for plumbing, landscape and other drainage applications.
A construction calculator is an indispensable aid for any building project. It allows you to add measurements (i.e., feet, inches and fractions) or compute area and volume. One model conveniently attaches to a standard tape measure. If you frequently find yourself using your tape to estimate room size and other dimensions, you may want to consider an ultrasound measuring device. One model also uses an infrared beam and a hand-held target for situations when there's no solid object to reference.
For occasional electrical projects, no household should be without a digital multimeter. Even if you don't know anything about electronics, you can easily learn to use a multimeter to test batteries (including your car battery), check electrical and phone outlets, verify speaker wire continuity and polarity, and much more. Pocket-sized digital multimeters cost as little as $15. One company's combination tester is designed especially for batteries, light bulbs and fuses.
Another handy device can be used to identify electrical circuits. Simply plug a special transmitter into an electrical outlet or light socket (using a screw-in adapter). The hand-held receiver will beep as you pass it over the correct breaker or fuse. If you're concerned that some of your outlets might be incorrectly wired, you can get an inexpensive plug-in circuit tester. Its three LEDs identify common wiring faults.
To receive a list of companies that manufacture ``smart'' tools, please send $1.50 and a self-addressed envelope to David Butler F-407, Department TWN, 14713 Pleasant Hill Road, Charlotte, N.C. 28278-7927. The list includes toll-free phone numbers and a summary of each company's products. You'll also receive a list of mail order companies that specialize in wordworking, electrical and automotive tools .
Reader Tip: Each winter when I first start my furnace, dust and smoke sometimes set off my smoke detectors. I now have a reminder on my thermostat to cover the detectors with a grocery bag before starting the system. The bags are so ugly, there's no possibility that I'll forget to remove them!
by CNB