Calculator & Meauring Tool: Product FAQs
Welcome to Calculators & Measuring Tools Product FAQs page. We've included frequently asked questions about our most popular calculators and measuring devices. Click on a topic or product line below for answers.
Construction Master Series
Dimension Master Series
ElectriCalc Series
Real Estate Master/Qualifier Plus Series
Scale Master Series
Product Comparison Grids
Need a side-by-side comparison of product features or functions? Click on the following Product Comparison Grids for a detailed comparison.
Construction Master Calculator Comparison
Dimension Master Comparison
ElectriCalc Calculator Comparison
Real Estate Calculator Comparison
Scale Master Comparison
Read the User's Guide:
Make sure the product has the functions needed to solve the problem or calculations. Often a clear understanding of the product's capabilities will determine whether it is working properly or not. Simply find an example in the User's Guide similar to the problem you need to solve. Adapt the keystroke sequence using your own data to obtain the solution.
Often, problems with products can be solved with simple solutions-- e.g., a battery needs changing, or the calculator needs to be reset. BEFORE RETURNING A PRODUCT FOR REPAIR, read common Repair Service FAQs.
If you still have questions, click here to e-mail your question to Technical Support.
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Construction Master Series
(Includes: Construction Master IV, Construction Master Pro-Desktop Model, Trig Plus, ConcreteCalc, HeavyCalc, Ultra Measure Master and Measure Master Classic)
Click on the subjects below for answers:
Converting
Dimensional Format of Answers
Wrong Answer/All-Clear
Squaring
Fractions
Memory Recall
Jack Rafters
Stair Layout
Stud Lengths
CONVERTING
Q.How do I convert between Feet-Inch Fractions and a Decimal Feet-Inch format?
A. Successive presses of the [Feet] key (after pressing [Conv]) toggles between Feet-Inch-Fraction and Decimal Feet. The older models have separate [Feet-Inch] and [Feet] keys.
Q.How do I convert from Feet to Meters?
A. As an example, if you have 252 Feet as the displayed value and want to change it to Meters, all you have to do is press [Conv] [m] (for Meters.) Your answer will display 76.8096 Meters.
DIMENSIONAL FORMAT OF ANSWERS
Q.When working with dimensions, sometimes my answers come up in Inches and other times in Feet-Inches. Why?
A. The dimension unit you start with in a calculation is what your answer will default to (e.g., 5 inch + 6 feet = 77 inch; or, 6 feet + 5 inch = 6 feet 5 inch.) Remember, you may always convert any displayed answer to any desired format using the [Conv] and then the dimensional unit key.
WRONG ANSWER/ALL-CLEAR
Q.My calculator is coming up with apparently incorrect answers all of a sudden. What am I doing wrong?
A. Most likely you have a stored value in your calculator's memory. Perform a Memory Clear (see User's Guide) or turn your calculator off, then on to clear memory values. If still incorrect, perform an All-Clear by pressing the [Conv] and [x] keys to clear all values, including custom or default settings. (Caution: as an All-Clear will delete all your previously stored settings, use only if necessary.)
SQUARING
Q.Why doesn't my calculator display Square Feet-Inches when I multiply two Feet-Inch dimensions together?
A. Because, by definition, the term "Square Feet-Inches," does not exist. Square Feet, Square Inches or Square Yards is the correct terminology.
FRACTIONS
Q.Why can't I work with thirds (e.g., 2/3), fifths (e.g., 3/5) and tenths (e.g., 1/10)?
A. Because these are dimension-based calculators, all functions are based on "ruler fractions" or 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32, 1/64. In construction, thirds and fifths are not applicable.
Q.Can you explain how to set the Fraction Denominator?
A. Set the fraction's denominator using the [Conv] key (e.g., [Conv] [2] for 1/2's, [Conv] [4] for 1/4's, etc.). See below.
Note: On the older "II" series models, the same principle applies but you have a separate [Fraction Set] key. The original Construction Master, Measure Master Plus and Pocket Handyman did not have a "Fraction-Set" function.
To set your preferred fraction resolution, simply press [Conv] followed by the first digit of the denominator value of your desired fraction. See the keystrokes below:
- [Conv] [2] = Fraction Resolution to 1/2
- [Conv] [3] = Fraction Resolution to 1/32
- [Conv] [4] = Fraction Resolution to 1/4
- [Conv] [6] = Fraction Resolution to 1/64
- [Conv] [8] = Fraction Resolution to 1/8
- [Conv] [1] = (Default) Fraction Resolution to 1/16
MEMORY RECALL
Q.How do I recall a stored value from Memory?
A. Press [Rcl] [M+] or [Rcl] [Rcl] to recall and clear the Memory. On the older model (CMII), press the [MRC] key to display a stored value.
JACK RAFTERS
Q.What is the Jack Rafter key's "default setting" for the on-center distance?
A. 16" on center, which can be verified by pressing [Rcl] [Jack]. Remember, you may change this on-center value anytime.
Q.Can I calculate Irregular Jack Rafters using my Construction Master?
A. Yes, but only using the newer Construction Master IV (and later) models, and the calculations are based on the entry of an irregular pitch via the [Conv] [Hip/V] keys.
In the older models (e.g., CMIII), the Jack Rafter key only solves for regular (equal Pitch) Jack rafters. However, the calculator will calculate Irregular (uneven Pitch) Hip and Valley rafters.
STAIR LAYOUT
Q.What is the Stair key's "default setting" for the desired stair Riser height?
A. 7-1/2 inches. This can be verified by pressing [Rcl] [Stair]. Remember, you may change this desired riser height anytime.
Q.What do the "+" or "-" values mean on the last press of the Stair calculation (Overage and Underage)?
A. This "overage/underage" value is the remainder after dividing the riser height into the overall drop. For example, if you have 10 risers that are each 7-1/2 inches high (= 7.5 inches) and your floor-to-floor drop is 74-1/2 inches, then you have a remainder or "overage" of 1/2" to compensate for. Note: this is the total remainder, not a per-riser remainder.
STUD LENGTHS
Q.How do I calculate the Stud Length of a raked (or pitched) wall?
A. As an example, enter a pitch value (___[Inch] [Pitch]) and 16 [Inch] [Run], then press [Rise]. This will give you the amount of rise over each 16" span. Now subtract this amount from the maximum height. Enter maximum height (___[Inch]). Then press [-] [Rise] [=] to display the 2nd stud length, press [-] [Rise] [=] for the 3rd stud length, etc.
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Dimension Master Series
(includes Dimension Master Plus, Laser Dimension Master & Pocket Dimension Master)
Click on the subjects below for answers:
Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
Measuring Distance Limit
Measuring Accuracy
Receiving Surface
Batteries
Sq. Footage/Area & Volume
Feet Inch or Metric Display
Clearing the Calculator
INDOOR VS. OUTDOOR USE
Q.Should I use my Dimension Master outdoors?
A. Ultrasonic measuring tools like the Dimension Master Plus, Laser Dimension Master & Pocket Dimension Master are designed for indoor use and are not recommended for measuring outdoors. Atmospheric conditions (wind, temperature, humidity, etc.) may affect the accuracy of measurements.
MEASURING DISTANCE LIMIT
Q.How far will the Dimension Master models measure?
A. Dimension Master Plus: up to 60 feet
Laser Dimension Master: up to 50 feet
Pocket Dimension Master: up to 50 feet
MEASURING ACCURACY
Q.How accurate are the Dimension Master models?
A. Dimension Master Plus: approx. 99.5%
Laser Dimension Master: approx. 99%
Pocket Dimension Master: approx. 99%
RECEIVING SURFACE
Q.What type of surface is needed to ensure an accurate measurement?
A. The surface must be flat (not sloped) and solid. For example, users commonly measure interior room measurements, and therefore measure from wall-to-wall. Note: the ultrasonic units will also measure to glass receiving surfaces, such as windows.
BATTERIES
Q.My Dimension Master Plus isn't working. What's wrong?
A. Check the battery. Make sure the batteries are properly installed and that the battery door is completely screwed shut. Also check the grip on the handle to ensure that it is pushed all the way on so that the battery compartment door can fully seat itself when screwed down.
When a Dimension Master Plus has been turned on but does not operate, pull a battery from the battery compartment and let the unit sit for about 30 seconds. Re-insert the battery and check operation. Also, check the keys on the calculator to make sure that none of the keys are stuck in the "on" position.
Click here to order batteries.
Q.Where do I purchase batteries and how long will they last?
A. You should be able to find replacement batteries for our Dimension Master products from Radio Shack or any store that sells consumer electronics. Or, order from us direct. Click here to order batteries online.
Dimension Master Plus: Four (4) AAA batteries. (When it is time to replace the batteries, a "B" will light up in the display to indicate "low battery" power.)
Laser Dimension Master: Meas. Battery: 2 pcs CR 2032; Laser Battery: 3 pcs LR 44
Pocket Dimension Master: 2 pcs CR 2032
SQ. FOOTAGE/AREA & VOLUME
Q.Will the Dimension Master Plus unit measure Square Footage?
A. Yes, it is one of the key functions of this model. Square Footage is entered by pressing the [Length] and [Width] keys. To find Area or Volume, simply press the [LxW] or [LxWxH] or [Depth] keys.
Note: the Laser Dimension Master & Pocket Dimension Master do not have dedicated Square Footage keys, although they will, of course, measure square footage.
FEET-INCH OR METRIC DISPLAY
Q.My Dimension Master Plus is displaying Meters. Is there a way to always view Feet-Inch measurements without constantly pushing the [Convert To] key?
A. Your Dimension Master must be in Metric Mode. To set to Feet-Inch (F/I) Mode, switch the small switch on the left side of the Dimension Master Plus from Metric (Met) to Feet-Inch (F/I).
CLEARING THE CALCULATOR
Q.How do I clear the calculator on my Dimension Master Plus? Do I have to turn the unit off?
A. Press the [On] key once to clear the last entry. To clear all stored values (e.g., values stored in [Length] [Width]), press [Conv] and [x]. To clear the Memory (M+), press [Rcl] twice in succession.
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ElectriCalc Series
(Includes: ElectriCalc LT, ElectriCalc Pro, older models)
Click on the subjects below for answers:
Wrong Answer/All-Clear
Entering Wire Size
Entering Multiple Conductors for Conduit Size
Conductor Insulation
Ohm's Law
Maximum Voltage
NEC Tables
State Electrical Exams
WRONG ANSWER/ALL-CLEAR
Q.My answers don't match those in the User's Guide. What am I doing wrong?
A. A value was probably stored that is affecting the calculation. To clear all values, including custom or default settings, perform an All-Clear by pressing the [Set] and [x] keys.
Q.Why do my Watts, Volts and Amps come up with incorrect values?
A. Check that your calculator's Power Factor and Efficiency Default values are set at 100%. These values can be reset to your preference at any time. An All-Clear [Set] [x] will default values back to 100%.
Q.The ElectriCalc seems to be coming up with wrong values using the Horsepower key. Why?
A. The Horsepower [HP] key is a purely theoretical key and does not refer to Table 430-148 or Table 430-150. The Horsepower key was included on the ElectriCalc because it is included in Electrician's Workbooks and is useful in taking the State Electrician's Exam.
ENTERING WIRE SIZE
Q.How do I enter 4 ought into my ElectriCalc?
A. Electricians write "one ought" using the symbol 1/0. Using your ElectriCalc, you must press the [O] digit key and then press the wire size [WireSz] key to enter ought size 1/0. Enter 2/0 following the same format - [O] [O] [WireSz].
ENTERING MULTIPLE CONDUCTORS FOR CONDUIT SIZE
Q.How do I enter a multiple number of Wire Sizes into the [Conduit Sz] key?
A. The older model ElectriCalcs will not solve for multiple Wire Size problems. Only the new ElectriCalc Pro does.
Using the ElectriCalc Pro, first enter the problem's variables (e.g., set the conduit type and wire size [WireSz]), then enter the # of wires into the applicable wire type keys ([#THW], [#XHHW], [#THHN]) and press [Conduit Sz] to solve. Proceed for each different wire size and wire type.
See your User's Guide for specific examples.
CONDUCTOR INSULATION
Q.What do TW, THW, THWN and XHHW mean?
A. These are conductors or wires, plastic-insulated, designed for use in wet-dry locations.
OHM'S LAW
Q.Does the ElectriCalc refer to Ohm's Law?
A. Yes, it solves Volts, Watts, Amps, HP, and Efficiency, but it does not solve for Resistance.
MAXIMUM VOLTAGE
Q.What is the maximum Voltage that can be entered in the ElectriCalc?
A. You may enter up to 999.9999 Volts; however, in Kerchoff's law calculations, higher Volts can be solved for.
NEC TABLES
Q.Which NEC Tables are built into my ElectriCalc?
A. The NEC References built into the new ElectriCalc LT and ElectriCalc Pro are: ElectriCalc LT:
Table 250-66
Table 250-122
Table 310-15(b)(2)(a)
Table 310-16
Table 310-17
Chapter 9, Tables 1, 4, 5 and 8
Appendix C
ElectriCalc Pro:
Table 250-66
Table 250-122
Table 310-15(b)(2)(a)
Table 310-16
Table 310-17
Chapter 9, Table 1, 4, 5 and 8
Section 430-32
Table 430-148
Table 430-150
Table 430-152
Appendix C
STATE ELECTRICAL EXAMS
Q.May I use the ElectriCalc calculators to take my State Electrical Test?
A. Yes, you should be able to use the ElectriCalc on your test. It's always wise to check with your Instructor and/or Agency for approval first. Be sure to indicate that the ElectriCalc is a non-programmable, non-running tape calculator.
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Real Estate Master/Qualifier Plus Series
Click on the subjects below for answers:
Finding Monthly Payment
Paying More than Monthly Payment
Entering Tax & Insurance Rates
Association Fees
Qualifying Loan Amount Equals Zero
Date Function
FINDING MONTHLY PAYMENT
Q.What information is required to compute a monthly payment on my Real Estate Master or Qualifier Plus calculator?
A. To find the monthly payment you first need to enter three known values: a Loan Amount [L/A], Term [Term] and Interest Rate [Int]. Then simply solve for the 4th value, or Payment, by pressing the [Pmt] key.
PAYING MORE THAN MONTHLY PAYMENT
Q.If I pay more than what is required for my monthly mortgage payments, how do I find the adjusted loan term?
A. First set up the mortgage calculation: enter your Loan Amount [L/A], Interest [Int], Term [Term] and press the Payment [Pmt] key. Then enter the added payment and press the [Term] key once again to recalculate the new loan term. For example, enter [L/A] [Int] [Term]; solve for payment [Pmt]; add additional $200 a month ([Pmt] + 200); set into payment key [=] [Pmt]; then press [Term] to recalculate term.
Note: You may change any variable ([L/A], [Term], [Int], [Pmt]) at anytime - without starting over - and instantly recalculate mortgage problems for comparing loan scenarios.
ENTERING TAX & INSURANCE RATES
Q.How do I enter taxes and insurance using my Real Estate Master or Qualifier Plus?
A. Taxes and insurance can only can be entered on the Real Estate Master II/Qualifier Plus II series calculators.
For the Real Estate Master IIx/Qualifier Plus IIx series: Enter annual tax and insurance as a percent or dollar amount using the [Tax] and [Ins] keys. For example, enter 1% tax as 1 [Tax] or .25% property insurance as .25 [Ins]. You may also enter mortgage insurance (QPIIx only) using the [Mtg Ins] key in the same manner. If you want your entry to remain permanently then you must switch to "pro mode" first, [Set] [+].
ASSOCIATION FEES
Q.Will my Qualifier Plus calculator figure monthly Association Fees into my house payment?
A. Yes. The monthly Association Fees may be entered into the Expense [Exp] key. Entered expenses are included both in qualifying and in the total payment calculation.
QUALIFYING LOAN AMOUNT EQUALS ZERO
Q.When I qualify my clients using the Qualifier Plus, a loan amount of "zero" is displayed. Why?
A. Check that both Interest and Term are entered, as these loan variables must be present in order to do qualifying problems. (If you've previously performed an All-Clear ([Set] [X]), Term and Interest will be zero.)
Also, if the client's entered financial information (Income [Inc], Debt [Debt]) does not qualify according to the stored qualifying ratios, the qualifying loan amount will equal "zero."
DATE FUNCTION
Q.Does the new Real Estate Master/Qualifier Plus II series have a Date function?
A. Yes. In newer IIx models, the date function is accessed via the [:] colon key, separating the month, day and year. See your User's Guide for examples.
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Scale Master Series
(Includes: Scale Master II, Scale Master Classic, older models)
Click on the subjects below for answers:
User Accuracy
Wheel Adjustment
Batteries
Rectangular vs. Irregular Areas
Storing Multiple Areas
Subtracting Measurements
Changing Display from Dec. Ft. to Feet-Inches
Clicking Sound
Locked Unit
USER ACCURACY
Q.How accurate is the Scale Master?
A. You should expect a 2-4% "user inaccuracy" or error factor when performing take-offs. In other words, where you start and stop the device on your plans will greatly affect the accuracy of your results.
WHEEL ADJUSTMENT
Q.Why does my Scale Master keep adding measurements when I pick the unit up off my plans?
A. The Scale Master's wheel tension may be too loose. It is user adjustable by taking a flat-headed jeweler's screwdriver and slightly rotating/tightening the screw located near the wheel tip.
BATTERIES
Q.Where do I purchase batteries and how long will they last?
A. The batteries for Scale Master should last upwards of 400 hours of actual use and are readily available at most camera stores, Radio Shack stores or directly through Calculated Industries. The Scale Master uses two 3-volt lithium (CR-2430) batteries. Click here to order batteries online.
Q.My Scale Master isn't working. What should I do?
A. Make sure the batteries are properly inserted and that the battery cover is on correctly. The batteries must be placed with positive ends facing up. The battery terminal (the small metal piece under the battery compartment opening) must be on top of the batteries. Do not force it below the batteries--this could damage the terminal.
Click here to order batteries.
RECTANGULAR VS. IRREGULAR AREAS
Q.Does the Scale Master measure irregular (versus rectangular/LXW) areas?
A. No. You cannot measure irregular areas or volumes with the Scale Master. A more expensive planimeter or digitizer is needed for kidney shapes, circles and areas you cannot block off into squares or rectangles. However, rectangular areas can be found using the Scale Master by simply multiplying (L x W). This is done by using the [M+] [Mx] keys with the Scale Master Classic or the dedicated [Length] [Width] and [SQ/CU] keys with the Scale Master II.
STORING MULTIPLE AREAS
Q.Can I store multiple areas or Square Footage into the Memory?
A. It depends which Scale Master model you own. You cannot store multiple areas using the Scale Master Classic or Scale Master Plus, as these models have a single user Memory. (The Memory function was created to sum linear distances or counts or to calculate and store an Area and/or Volume.) But you can with the Scale Master II--square or cubic values may be entered and accumulated using the M+ key.
SUBTRACTING MEASUREMENTS
Q.When I roll my Scale Master backwards, will it subtract from the take-off measurement value displayed?
A. No. The Scale Master is designed to let you add distances by rolling in either direction. However, it will subtract from any previously rolled distance if you press the [Subtract/Count] (Scale Master Classic) or [Sub] key (Scale Master II) while rolling.
CHANGING DISPLAY FROM DEC. FT. TO FEET-INCHES
Q.I like doing my take-offs in the Feet-Inch mode rather than a decimal setting. Can the Scale Master measure in a Feet-Inch setting?
A. Yes. The keystrokes are different according to which Scale Master you are using. With the Scale Master Classic, simultaneously press the [Subtract/Count] and [Mode] keys to toggle from a decimal ft. setting to feet-inches, or other measurement units (e.g., inches, yards, meters). If you are using the Scale Master II, press [Set] then [Mode] and then [Mode] again to change units (dec. ft., inches, yards, meters).
CLICKING SOUND
Q.My Scale Master is no longer making a clicking sound. Why?
A. The built-in clicker sound is turned off. The keystrokes are different according to which Scale Master you are using. For the Scale Master Classic, simultaneously press [Reset] key and [Scale] key to turn on the clicker. For the Scale Master II, simultaneously press [Sub] key and [Mode] key.
LOCKED UNIT
Q.I'm stuck in a 1/16" Scale. Why can't I change my Scale?
A. You must own an older Scale Master (the Scale Master Plus), which has a Lock Switch. Your Lock Switch is turned On. The lock switch is located underneath the ON/OFF switch. Switch it to the opposite direction to unlock, so that you may change scales.
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