Common ZIPLEVEL PRO-2000B Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

The ZIPLEVEL PRO-2000B is one of the fastest and most accurate ways to measure elevation without lasers or tripods. But like any precision instrument, user error can lead to inaccurate readings. Most problems come not from the tool—but from small setup mistakes that are easy to fix once you know what to watch for.

This guide covers the most common mistakes users make, why they cause bad readings, and simple steps to avoid them in the field.

1. Setting the Base Unit on an Unstable or Uneven Surface

The Measurement Module (MM) and Base Unit act as your reference. If the base is unstable, tilted, or sitting on shifting ground, every reading will be off.

Common Issues

• Base placed on soft dirt or mud → slowly sinks
• Uneven gravel or loose soil → small shifts affect accuracy
• Placing the unit on debris, rocks, or slopes

How to Avoid It

- Choose a firm, level surface whenever possible
- Clear loose debris before placing the base
- On uneven terrain, use the protective boot or optional stakes (for the full PRO-2000 model)
- For long jobs, check that the base hasn’t shifted before continuing

A stable base = stable reference.

2. Cord Not Tensioned Properly (Slack, Snagging, or Dragging)

The ZIPLEVEL relies on its internal cord reel (Pressurized Cord) for accurate height differences. If the cord is dragging or snagged, readings can jump or drift.

Typical Mistakes

• Cord rubbing against rocks, edges, concrete forms
• Letting the cord tangle in vegetation
• Not pulling the MM far enough to maintain tension
• Allowing the cord to whip or twist during retraction

How to Avoid It

- Keep the cord off the ground when walking
- Maintain light tension while measuring
- Route the cord where obstacles won’t snag it
- Avoid sharp bends or sudden tugs
- Retract the cord slowly when finished

A smooth, tensioned cord ensures accurate pressure readings inside the system.

3. Zero / Reference Point Not Set Before Measuring

One of the most important steps—and one of the easiest to forget—is establishing your reference zero.

If you don’t zero the device before starting, every reading will be relative to… nothing.

Common Signs

• Numbers don’t match plans
• Measurements seem reversed (+ vs –)
• Elevations drift as you move

How to Avoid It

- Press ZERO at your known benchmark or starting position
- Double-check the display shows “0.00” before walking away
- If the job requires multiple benchmarks, re-zero as needed
- When unsure—re-zero. It takes one second.

Zeroing is the foundation of all measurements.

4. Skipping Calibration Checks or Ignoring the Check Block

ZIPLEVEL is extremely accurate, but like any precision tool, it benefits from periodic verification.

ZIPLEVEL provides a Check Block process for confirming accuracy.

Mistakes Users Make

• Skipping calibration when first unpacked
• Ignoring accuracy checks after long storage
• Not performing check block verification on hot/cold days
• Assuming the device is “always right” without confirming

How to Avoid It

- Perform a quick Check Block test before major jobs
- Allow the device to acclimate to extreme temperatures
- If readings seem off, recalibrate before continuing

It takes minutes and can prevent costly measurement errors.

5. Misreading the Display Units or Scaling

The ZIPLEVEL can show:

• Feet & inches
• Decimal feet
• Meters
• Difference mode
• Various resolution settings

Switching modes accidentally can make the numbers look wildly incorrect.

Common Mistakes

• Working in inches when you think it's feet
• Display set to high-resolution mode (+/- 0.005") without realizing it
• Accidentally toggling between units

How to Avoid It

- Confirm your unit mode before starting
- Lock in preferred settings during a job
- Explain unit mode to all crew members
- If a number “looks weird,” check units first—it’s often the issue

Unit confusion is one of the #1 causes of wrong elevations.

Bonus: Environmental Factors Users Forget About

Leaving the Base in Direct Sun on Hot Pavement: Heat affects internal pressure → temporary drift.
Solution: Shade the unit or place on cool ground.

Working Over Very Long Distances: Cord length allows up to 200 ft radius, but extreme lengths benefit from stable routing.
Solution: Avoid unnecessary obstacles and long, looping paths.

Forgetting to Close the Case When Done: Dust and moisture shorten lifespan.
Solution: Store properly, especially in construction environments.

Final Tips for Accurate ZIPLEVEL PRO-2000B Use

• Stabilize the base

• Maintain cord tension

• Set ZERO before every job

• Run a Check Block test when needed

• Confirm units on the display

• Use protective boots/stakes on uneven ground

With these habits, even beginners can achieve professional-grade leveling accuracy in seconds—without tripods or lasers.