What is the L550 MultiScanner™? Features and Uses Explained

The MultiScanner™ L550 OneStep® is a versatile and user-friendly tool designed to quickly and accurately locate studs, joists, metal, and live AC electrical wiring behind various surfaces like walls, floors, and ceilings. Ideal for DIY enthusiasts, homeowners, and professionals, the L550 simplifies tasks from hanging pictures to more complex installations, ensuring you work safely and efficiently. Let’s delve into what makes the L550 a valuable addition to your toolkit.

Key Features of the L550 MultiScanner™

The L550 MultiScanner™ stands out due to its multi-functional capabilities and ease of use. It incorporates several advanced features to provide reliable and precise detection in various scenarios.

Multi-Mode Detection for Comprehensive Scanning

This device isn’t just a stud finder; it’s a multi-detector. The L550 offers five distinct detection modes, easily selectable with a 4-mode switch, catering to different needs:

• StudScan Mode: This mode is engineered to locate the center, edges, and direction of both wood and metal studs up to 3/4 inch (19 mm) deep. It’s your go-to setting for standard stud finding tasks, ensuring you can securely mount fixtures.
• DeepScan® Mode: When you need to scan deeper, DeepScan® mode doubles the scanning depth to 1 1/2 inches (38 mm). This is particularly useful for walls with thicker coverings like plaster or lath, providing extended reach to find studs and joists.
• WireWarning® Detection: Safety is paramount. The WireWarning® detection feature operates in StudScan and Metal Scan modes to alert you to the presence of live, unshielded AC electrical wiring up to 2 inches (50 mm) deep. This crucial feature helps prevent accidental contact with live wires, enhancing safety during projects.
• Metal Scan Mode: Beyond studs, the L550 is also capable of detecting metal. In Metal Scan mode, it can locate non-ferrous metals like copper pipes up to 1 1/2 inches (38 mm) deep and ferrous metals like steel pipes up to 3 inches (75 mm) deep. This is invaluable for plumbing and other installations where metal components are present.
• AC Scan Mode: For dedicated electrical safety checks, AC Scan mode focuses solely on locating live, unshielded AC electrical wiring up to 2 inches (50 mm) deep. This mode is specifically designed for identifying electrical hazards before you start drilling or cutting.

Advanced Technology for Accuracy and Ease of Use

The L550 is packed with technology to ensure accurate readings and a user-friendly experience:

• ACT™ (Auto Correcting Technology): Zircon’s ACT™ automatically corrects common user errors. For instance, if you start scanning directly over a stud, ACT™ recalibrates the device to ensure accurate detection, eliminating false positives and making the scanning process more reliable.
• Signal Strength Indicator: This indicator visually represents the strength of the detected signal, helping you differentiate between shallow and deep targets. A stronger signal suggests a closer target, aiding in precise location and depth estimation.
• SpotLite® Pointer: The patented SpotLite® Pointer projects a bright, arrow-shaped light directly onto the wall to pinpoint the center of the stud. This visual aid removes guesswork and clearly marks the target location, making it easy to know exactly where to drill or nail.
• “V” Marker Groove: Located on the top of the device, the “V” marker groove allows for precise marking of the target location. Once the SpotLite® Pointer indicates the center, you can use this groove to make an accurate mark, ensuring your drilling or fastening is spot-on.
• Patented Pivot Pinch Grip: Ergonomics are key for comfortable and prolonged use. The patented pivot pinch grip is designed for a secure and comfortable hold in either hand and at any angle. This ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue and enhances control during scanning.

User-Friendly Design for Efficient Workflow

The L550 MultiScanner™ is designed with user convenience in mind:

• Ultra-Bright Backlit LCD Display: The large, ultra-bright backlit LCD display clearly shows the detection mode, signal strength, and target location. The backlight ensures readability even in dimly lit conditions, making it easy to interpret readings at a glance.
• Audio Tone Indicator: In addition to visual cues, an audio tone sounds when a target is located. This auditory feedback is particularly useful when working in areas where it’s difficult to see the display, allowing you to scan efficiently without constant visual checks.
• Low Battery Indicator: To ensure optimal performance and prevent unexpected shutdowns, the L550 includes a low battery indicator. This alerts you when battery replacement is needed, so you can maintain consistent and reliable operation.

Conclusion

In summary, the MultiScanner™ L550 OneStep® is a comprehensive and easy-to-use tool that goes beyond basic stud finding. Its multiple detection modes, advanced technology features, and user-friendly design make it an invaluable asset for a wide range of projects. Whether you’re hanging shelves, installing light fixtures, or working on more complex home improvement tasks, understanding “What Is L550” reveals a tool designed to enhance accuracy, safety, and efficiency in your work.

Further Reading:

• MS L550 Instructions
• MS L550 Datasheet
• MS L550 Datasheet (ES)