(Leica Geosystems: London) -- The Leica Absolute Tracker is now equipped with PowerLock. This vision technology automatically locks onto any moving target without user intervention. Current laser tracker technology requires the operator to pay careful attention that the laser beam between the tracker and the target is not interrupted. Catching the beam requires the operator to find the laser beam and then physically pass the target through the beam before the tracker can start measuring again. According to some customers this process interruption can account for up to 20 percent of their total measurement time.

PowerLock prevents such interruptions. By utilizing a vision system built into the Leica Absolute Tracker the sensor can now determine where a target is without the need for the laser beam to be locked on. The Leica Absolute Tracker locks on to the target automatically as soon as it is within view of the sensor. This allows the operator to focus on the part they need to measure without constantly worrying about whether or not they have broken the laser tracker's beam. PowerLock works with all standard reflectors and all Leica T-Products.

Watch a video demonstration of the PowerLock in action by clicking here.

The PowerLock technology will be released to the market in summer 2009. Any Leica Absolute Tracker purchased since July 1, 2009, will be upgraded to this functionality free of charge at release. All existing Leica Absolute Trackers in the market can be upgraded to this technology for a small charge in a local Hexagon Metrology service center.