D
IGITAL
C
ONTROL
I
NCORPORATED
DigiTrak
®
F5
®
SST
®
Operator’s Manual
9
Introduction
DigiTrak F5 SST Guidance System
The DigiTrak F5 SST Guidance System is designed for horizontal directional drilling (HDD) projects
where walkover locating is difficult. It provides real-time tool information that enables accurate steering of
the drill head directly from the remote display and computer interface. The SST (Short Steering Tool)
transmitter is a wireline device that has an internal compass to determine heading or direction. A
magnetic shield is provided for protection from magnetic fields when the transmitter is not in use, and a
special non-magnetic housing is required during drilling.
Steering data is shown in real time on both the remote display at the drill rig and on the laptop computer,
which can be placed up to 50 ft (15 m) away from the remote. The remote and computer are connected
through the cable box, which is also connected to the SST transmitter and the power source. The F5
receiver is used for calibration and to confirm transmitter data. DCI recommends that you use a
combination of walkover and non-walkover locating whenever possible to increase the capabilities and
accuracy of the SST system. A standard F5 system can be upgraded to the F5 SST system.
F5 SST transmitter
Magnetic
shield
Laptop computer
with LWD software
F5 SST
receiver
SST remote
display
Cable box
(MFCB)
