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Sondes, Flexrods and FlexiTrace
Sondes are battery powered transmitters that are useful for tracing non-metallic pipes.
They can be fixed to Flexrods to allow them to be pushed through pipes or conduits, and
some are suitable for blowing through ductwork. The RD8100 can detect a range of
sonde frequencies, including those transmitted by flexiprobe
™
P540c pushrod systems
and flexitrax
™
P550c crawlers.
For a detailed guide on locating sondes, please refer to the operation manual.
A FlexiTrace is a traceable fiberglass rod incorporating wire conductors with a sonde
at the end. It is connected to the output of the transmitter and is typically used in small
diameter, non-metallic pipes. The user has the option of locating the entire length of the
cable or choosing to locate only the tip of the cable.
The FlexiTrace has a maximum power rating of 1W. When using the FlexiTrace with a
Radiodetection Tx-5(B) or Tx-10(B) transmitter the output limit must be set to 1W in the
MAX P menu and the output voltage limit set to LOW in the MAX V menu.
No additional settings are required for the Tx-1 transmitter.
Fault-finding with an A-Frame
The RD8100PDL and PTL models have the ability to detect cable or pipe insulation faults
accurately using an A-Frame accessory. The Tx-5(B) and Tx-10(B) provide fault finding
signals that can be detected by the A-Frame as a result of the signal bleeding to ground
through damaged cable sheaths.
The Transmitter’s multimeter function can be used to measure the impedance of the
connected pipe or cable in order to characterize the fault.
For a detailed guide to fault-finding, please refer to the operation manual.
Plug / Live cable connector
The plug connector is connected to the output of the transmitter and is used to put a
signal onto a line and trace it from a domestic mains plug to the service cable in the
street.
The live cable connector can be used to apply a signal to a live cable. Only suitably
qualified personnel should use this equipment.
Submersible antenna
This antenna is connected to the locator and used to locate pipes and cables underwater
at depths of up to 300 feet / 100 meters.
WARNING: use of the submersible antenna should be by fully licensed and
experienced personnel only, and only after fully reading the operation manual!
