answersLogoWhite

0

The laser light is pulsed and shone onto a reflective surface. The returned reflection is picked up by a phototransistor.

The time taken for the pulse to be sent and returned, can be measured by electronics within the device.

The speed of light is 300,000 Km /sec, (186,000 miles/sec) which is very fast, but finite.

The timing circuits within the device have to be very accurate and stable. This is acheived by using crystal oscillators within the device, to act as timing comparison.

What else can I help you with?