Introduction to PLT

The PLT 300 and PLT 400 is designed to simplify construction layout by guiding users from a digital design to physical points on the jobsite. Whether you are setting out walls, sleeves, anchors, or other construction elements, the workflow follows a straightforward process: prepare the project, station the tool, perform layout, and export the results.

This guide provides an overview of the fundamental steps required to complete a basic layout workflow with a PLT. Each section links to a more detailed article and video that explains the process in depth.

1. Import or Create a Project

Projects provide the foundation for all layout activities. They contain the drawings, control points, and layout data used throughout the workflow.

Before beginning any layout task, create a new project or open an existing one that contains the required jobsite information.

Key steps:

• Open Hilti Construction Layout
• Create a new project or select an existing project
• Confirm the project information and coordinate system

See this article for more information

Project Import Process Demo

2. Import a Drawing

Once a project has been created, the next step is to import the design drawing. The drawing provides the layout points and geometry that will be used on the jobsite.

After importing the drawing, you can review the design in the CAD view and select the points that need to be laid out.

Key steps:

• Open the project
• Import the drawing file
• Verify that the drawing loads correctly
• Review the design in the CAD view

See this article for more information

Drawing Import Process Demo

3. Import Control Points

Control points establish the relationship between the digital design and the physical jobsite. These known points are used during stationing to accurately position the PLT.

Importing the correct control point file is essential for achieving reliable layout accuracy.

Key steps:

• Import the control point file
• Review the available control points
• Confirm the coordinates are correct

See this article for more information

Control Point Import Demo

4. Connect the tool

5. Station the Tool

Before layout can begin, the PLT must determine its position on the jobsite. This process is called stationing.

There are multiple ways to station the PLT's location and orientation relative to the project coordinates. The two most common methods are 1) control point stationing, or 2) control line stationing.

Key steps:

• Set up the PLT on a tripod
• Select the stationing workflow
• Measure the required control points or lines
• Complete the stationing process

For Control Point Stationing, see this article for more information

For Control Line Stationing, see this article for more information

Control Point Stationing Demo

Control Line Stationing Demo

6. Layout Points

After stationing is complete, the PLT is ready to guide you to layout locations.

Select the Layout application, then select the desired point from the drawing and follow the on-screen guidance until the point is within the specified tolerance. The point can then be marked on the ground.

Key steps:

• Select a point from the drawing
• Follow the layout guidance
• Move into tolerance
• Mark the point location

See this article for more information

Point Layout Demo

7. Export the Layout Deviation Report

See this article for more information

Workflow Summary

The basic PLT workflow consists of six simple steps:

1. Import a Project
2. Import a Drawing
3. Import Control Points
4. Connect the Tool
5. Station the Tool
6. Layout Points
7. Export the Deviation Report

Following these steps will allow you to complete a standard layout workflow from project preparation to final documentation.