PM 20‑CG
PM 20‑CG A12
PM 20‑CGE

About these operating instructions

• Read these operating instructions before the product is used or operated for the first time. This is a prerequisite for safe, trouble-free handling and use of the product.
  
• Observe the safety instructions and warnings in these operating instructions and on the product.
  
• Always keep the operating instructions with the product and make sure that the product is accompanied by these operating instructions only, when the product is given to other persons.
  

Explanation of symbols

Warnings

Symbols in the operating instructions

	Comply with the operating instructions
	Instructions for use and other useful information
	Dealing with recyclable materials
	Do not dispose of electric equipment and batteries as household waste
	Hilti Li‑ion battery
	Hilti charger

Symbols in illustrations

	These numbers refer to the illustrations at the beginning of these operating instructions.
	The numbering reflects the sequence of operations shown in the illustrations and may deviate from the steps described in the text.
	Item reference numbers are used in the overview illustration and refer to the numbers used in the key in the product overview section.
	These characters are intended to specifically draw your attention to certain points when handling the product.

Product-dependent symbols

Symbols on the product

	The product supports near-field communication (NFC) technology compatible with iOS and Android platforms.
	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.
	Hilti Li-ion battery type series used. Observe the information given in the section headed Intended use .
	If applied on the product, the product has been certified by this certification body for the US and Canadian markets according to the applicable standards.

Laser information on the product

Laser class 2 based on standard IEC / EN 60825-1:2014 and corresponding to CFR 21 § 1040 (Laser Notice 56). Do not look straight into the laser beam.

Product information

• Write down the serial number in the table below. You will be required to state the product details when contacting Hilti Service or your local Hilti organization to inquire about the product.
  Product information

  Combilaser	PM 20‑CG PM 20‑CG A12 PM 20‑CGE
  Generation	01
  Serial no.

Declaration of conformity

General safety instructions, measuring tools

• 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.
  

Additional safety instructions

• Risk of injury by falling tools and/or accessories. Before starting work, check that the battery and installed accessories are secure.
  
• To achieve maximum accuracy, project the line onto a vertical, flat surface. To do so, set up the product at 90° to the surface.
  

Electromagnetic compatibility

Laser classification for Class 2 laser products

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 take apart, squash 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. Consult Hilti Service or read the document entitled "Instructions on safety and use for Hilti Li-ion batteries".
  
  Observe the special guidelines applicable to the transport, storage and use of lithium-ion batteries.
  Read the instructions on safety and use of Hilti Li-ion batteries that you can access by scanning the QR code at the end of these operating instructions.
  

Careful handling and use of batteries.

• Remove the batteries from the product if it is to remain unused for a lengthy period of time. Batteries can corrode and self-discharge during prolonged storage.
  
• Make sure that batteries are inaccessible to children.
  
• Do not mix old and new batteries. Always replace all batteries at the same time. Do not mix batteries of different makes or types.
  
• Do not use damaged batteries.
  
• Use only the battery type intended for this product. Use of other batteries may create a risk of injury and fire.
  
• When replacing batteries, make sure that polarity is correct and that correct procedure is followed. There is a risk of explosion.
  
• Do not allow batteries to overheat and do not expose them to fire. Batteries can explode and release toxic substances.
  
• Do not attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries.
  
• Do not solder batteries into the product.
  
• Do not discharge batteries by short-circuiting. Batteries can develop a leak, explode, catch fire and injure persons.
  
• Do not damage batteries and do not attempt to take batteries apart. Batteries can develop a leak, explode, catch fire and injure persons.
  

Product overview

1. Li-ion battery (only PM 20‑CG A12)
   
2. Charge state indicator
   
3. Receiver mode button
   
4. Line mode button
   
5. Laser exit window
   
6. Selector switch for ON / OFF and lock / unlock pendulum
   
7. Mounting thread
   
8. Eye for attaching the PMA 92 retaining strap
   
9. Position of rating plate
   
10. Battery compartment (only PM 20‑CG and PM 20‑CGE)
    
11. PMW 71 magnetic foot (only PM 20‑CGE)
    
12. Magnets for mounting
    
13. PMA 89 magnetic holder (only PM 20‑CG and PM 20‑CG A12)
    
14. Thread for mounting the laser
    
15. Feet (foldable)
    

Intended use

The product is a self-leveling plumb-and-line combilaser that enables a single person to plumb, transfer right angles, level horizontally and carry out alignment work quickly and accurately.

• Marking the position of partition walls (at right angles and in the vertical plane).

• Checking and transferring right angles.

• Aligning components to be installed or sections of a structure in three axes.

• Transferring points marked on the floor to the ceiling.

• Use only Hilti Li‑ion batteries of the B 12 series with this product.

• Use only Hilti battery chargers of the C4/12 series for charging these batteries.

Items supplied

Charge state indicator

Battery

Charging the battery

1. Before charging the battery, read the operating instructions for the charger.
   
2. Make sure that the contacts on the battery and the contacts on the charger are clean and dry.
   
3. Use an approved charger to charge the battery.
   

Inserting the battery

1. Charge the battery fully before using it for the first time.
   
2. Push the battery into the product until it engages with an audible click.
   
3. Check that the battery is seated securely.
   

Removing the battery

1. Press the battery release button.
   
2. Remove the battery from the product.
   

Inserting/changing batteries

1. Flip the battery compartment open.
   
2. Remove the spent batteries, if applicable.
   
3. Insert the new batteries.
   
4. Close the battery compartment.
   

Fall arrest

• Secure the anti-fall cable to the laser and to a load-bearing structure. Check that it holds securely.
  
  Comply with the operating instructions of the Hilti anti-fall cable.
  

Switching the laser beams on

1. Set the selector switch to the position (ON / unlocked).
   
   • All laser lines and all points are switched on.
     
2. Press the line mode button repeatedly until the desired line mode is set.
   
   • The product repeatedly cycles through the operating modes in the following sequence: all lines and all points, horizontal line and horizontal points, vertical line and vertical points.
     

Setting the laser beam for the "Inclined line" function

1. Set the selector switch to the position (ON / locked).
   
   • The horizontal line and horizontal points are switched on.
     
2. Press the line mode button repeatedly until the desired line mode is set.
   
   • The product repeatedly cycles through the operating modes in the following sequence: horizontal line and horizontal points, vertical line and vertical points, all lines and all points.
     
   When the "Inclined line" function is active, the pendulum is locked and the laser is not leveled.
   The laser beam(s) flash every 5 seconds.
   

Switching the laser beams off

1. Set the selector switch to the OFF position.
   
   • The laser beam is switched off and the pendulum is locked.
     

2. The laser beam is switched off automatically when the battery is low.
   

Matching two points over distance

1. Position the laser with the lower plumbing beam centered on a reference cross on the floor.
   
2. Turn the laser until the vertical laser beam is aligned with the second, remote control point.
   

Activating or deactivating laser receiver mode

1. To activate the receiver mode, press the receiver mode button.
   
   • The laser beam flashes five times as confirmation.
     
   • The LED beside the receiver-mode button shows green.
     
   • The visibility of the laser beams diminishes.
     
2. Press the receiver mode button again to deactivate the receiver mode.
   
   • The LED beside the receiver-mode button goes out.
     
   • The visibility of the laser beams increases back to normal level.
     
   Receiver mode is deactivated when the laser is switched off.
   

Examples of applications

Transferring heights

Aligning drywall tracks

Aligning overhead lights

Aligning pipes

Aligning heating units

Aligning door and window frames

Checking

Checking the plumb point

1. In a high room (for example in a stairwell with a height of 10 m), make a mark (a cross) on the floor.
   
2. Set the laser on a flat, horizontal surface.
   
3. Switch the laser on and unlock the pendulum.
   
4. Position the laser so that the lower plumb beam coincides with the center of the cross marked on the floor.
   
5. Mark the upper plumb point on the ceiling.
   
6. Turn the laser through 90°.
   
   The lower plumb beam must remain on the center of the cross.
   
7. Mark the upper plumb point on the ceiling.
   
8. Repeat the procedure after pivoting the tool through 180° and 270°.
   
   Form a circle on the ceiling from the 4 marked points. Measure the diameter of the circle D in millimeters or inches and the room height RH in meters or feet.
   

9. Calculate the value R.
   
   • For PM 20‑CG / PM 20‑CG A12: The value R should be less than 3 mm (1⁄8") (corresponding to 3 mm at 10 m).
     
   • For PM 20‑CGE: The value R should be less than 2 mm (1⁄12") (corresponding to 2 mm at 10 m).
     
10. If the result is out of tolerance, consult Hilti Service.
    

Checking the leveling of the laser beam

1. The distance between the walls must be at least 10 m.
   
2. Set the laser on a flat, horizontal surface approx. 20 cm from wall (A) and project the point of intersection of the laser lines on to wall (A).
   
3. Mark the point of intersection of the laser lines with a cross (1) on wall (A) and with a cross (2) on wall (B).
   
4. Place the laser on a flat, horizontal surface approx. 20 cm from wall (B) and project the point of intersection of the laser lines on to cross (1) on wall (A).
   
5. Adjust the height of the point of intersection of the laser lines so that the point of intersection coincides exactly with mark (2) on wall (B). Use a tripod or a wall mount if necessary.
   
6. Mark the point of intersection of the laser lines again with a cross (3) on wall (A).
   
7. Measure the offset D between crosses (1) and (3) on wall (A) (RL = room length).
   

8. Calculate the value R.
   
   • For PM 20‑CG / PM 20‑CG A12: The value R should be less than 3 mm (1⁄8).
     
   • For PM 20‑CGE: The value R should be less than 2 mm (1⁄12″).
     
9. If the result is out of tolerance, consult Hilti Service.
   

Checking perpendicularity (horizontal)

1. Position the laser so that the lower plumb beam coincides with the center of a reference cross (A) marked in the middle of a room at a distance of about 5 m (16 ft) from the walls. The vertical line of the first target plate (a) must pass exactly through the middle of the vertical laser line.
   
2. Fix another target plate (b) or a piece of stiff paper roughly centered relative to the beam angled to the right. Mark the mid-point (d1) of the beam angled to the right.
   

3. Turn the laser 90° clockwise, as viewed from above. The lower plumb beam must remain exactly on the center of the reference cross (A) and the center of the beam angled to the left must pass exactly through the vertical line on target plate (a).
   
4. Fix another target plate (c) or a piece of stiff paper roughly centered relative to the beam angled to the right. Mark the center point (d2) of the beam angled to the right on target plate (c).
   
5. Then mark the center point (d3) of the point of intersection of the laser lines on target plate (b).
   
   • For PM 20‑CG / PM 20‑CG A12: The horizontal distance between (d1) and (d3) must not exceed a maximum of 3 mm (1⁄8″) over a measuring distance of 5 m (16 ft).
     
   • For PM 20‑CGE: The horizontal distance between (d1) and (d3) must not exceed a maximum of 2 mm (1⁄12″) over a measuring distance of 5 m (16 ft).
     

6. Turn the laser 180° clockwise, as viewed from above. The lower plumb beam must remain exactly on the center of the reference cross (A) and the center of the beam angled to the right must pass exactly through the vertical line on target plate (a).
   
7. Mark the center point (d4) of the beam angled to the left on target plate (c).
   
   • For PM 20‑CG / PM 20‑CG A12: The horizontal distance between (d2) and (d4) must not exceed a maximum of 3 mm (1⁄8″) over a measuring distance of 5 m (16 ft).
     
   • For PM 20‑CGE: The horizontal distance between (d2) and (d4) must not exceed a maximum of 2 mm (1⁄12″) over a measuring distance of 5 m (16 ft).
     
   • For PM 20‑CG / PM 20‑CG A12: If (d3) is offset to the right of (d1), the sum of the horizontal distances (d1)-(d3) and (d2)-(d4) must not exceed a maximum of 3 mm (1⁄8″) over a measuring distance of 5 m (16 ft).
     For PM 20‑CGE: If (d3) is offset to the right of (d1), the sum of the horizontal distances (d1)-(d3) and (d2)-(d4) must not exceed a maximum of 2 mm (1⁄12″) over a measuring distance of 5 m (16 ft).
     
   • For PM 20‑CG / PM 20‑CG A12: If (d3) is offset to the left of (d1), the difference of the horizontal distances (d1)-(d3) and (d2)-(d4) must not exceed a maximum of 3 mm (1⁄8″) over a measuring distance of 5 m (16 ft).
     For PM 20‑CGE: If (d3) is offset to the left of (d1), the difference of the horizontal distances (d1)-(d3) and (d2)-(d4) must not exceed a maximum of 2 mm (1⁄12″) over a measuring distance of 5 m (16 ft).
     
8. If the result is out of tolerance, consult Hilti Service.
   

Checking the accuracy of the vertical line

1. Position the laser at a height of 2 m (pos. 1).
   
2. Switch the laser on.
   
3. Position the first target plate T₁ (vertical) at a distance of 2.5 meters from the laser at the same height (2 m), so that the vertical laser beam strikes the plate. Mark this position.
   
4. Then position the second target plate T₂ 2 m below the first target plate so that the vertical laser beam strikes the plate. Mark this position.
   
5. Mark pos. 2 on the opposite side of the test setup (mirror image) on the laser line on the floor at a distance of 5 m from the laser.
   
6. Now set the laser on the floor at the position you marked beforehand (pos. 2).
   
7. Align the laser beam so that it strikes target plate T₁ and the position marked on it.
   
8. Mark the new position on target plate T₂.
   
9. Read the distance (D) between the two marks on target plate T₂.
   
   For PM 20‑CG / PM 20‑CG A12: If difference (D) is more than 3 mm, consult Hilti Service.
   For PM 20‑CGE: If difference (D) is more than 2 mm, consult Hilti Service.
   

Hilti Measuring Systems Service

• 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.