Quick Answer
What is the Leica Rod Eye 160?
See also: Spectra Precision HL760 Laser Receiver
See also: Topcon LS-80L Laser Receiver
The Leica Rod Eye 160 Digital is a laser receiver for grade rods and machine masts with a 160mm detection band, ±1.5mm accuracy, and digital machine control output compatible with Leica Rugby lasers and most rotating laser brands.
Leica Rod Eye 160 Digital — Complete Specs, Manual & Guide
Category: Laser Receiver | Brand: Leica | Model: Rod Eye 160 Digital
The Leica Rod Eye 160 Digital is Leica's standard machine control laser receiver, designed to pair with the Rugby series of rotating lasers. It provides digital grade control output for dozer and scraper blade control systems, along with a bright LED display readable from machine cab distance. The Rod Eye 160 is waterproof, shock resistant, and designed for daily use on active earthmoving sites.
Leica Rod Eye 160 Full Specifications
| Detection accuracy | ±1.5mm |
| Detection band height | 160mm total |
| Detection range | Up to 400m radius from laser |
| Display | LED bar with on-grade, above, below indicators |
| Audio indication | Buzzer — on-grade tone, directional beeps off grade |
| Output | Digital machine control output (Leica compatible) |
| Mounting | 25mm mast bracket included |
| Power supply | 2× AA batteries or 9–28VDC external |
| Battery life | Approximately 200 hours |
| Operating temperature | -20°C to +55°C |
| IP rating | IP67 |
Compatible Lasers
- Leica Rugby 620 — Compatible with digital output mode
- Leica Rugby 640G — Dual-grade slope laser
- Leica Rugby CLA / CLH — Compact series
- Most 635nm rotating lasers — Manual/passive detection mode
Frequently Asked Questions — Leica Rod Eye 160
Is the Leica Rod Eye 160 Digital compatible with non-Leica lasers?
Yes. In manual/passive mode the Rod Eye 160 detects any 635nm red-beam rotating laser. The digital machine control output mode, however, requires a compatible Leica Rugby laser for the two-way digital protocol to function. In passive mode, output remains available as a simple on-grade signal.
What is the detection range of the Rod Eye 160?
Detection range is up to 400m radius from the laser instrument. Range decreases in bright direct sunlight; shading the receiver or using a sunshade extension extends effective range in high-ambient-light conditions.
How does the Rod Eye 160 mount to a machine?
The Rod Eye 160 uses a standard 25mm clamp bracket that attaches to any grade stake, survey rod, or machine-mounted mast. On dozers, it is typically mounted on the blade mast with the grade control cable running to the blade control box.
Can the Rod Eye 160 be used for manual leveling with a grade rod?
Yes. The LED display and audio tones provide clear on-grade indication for manual leveling work on grade rods. This makes the Rod Eye 160 a dual-purpose receiver suitable for both manual layout and machine control.
Related models: Spectra HL760 | Topcon LS-80L
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