4 Locating
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4.2.4
Detecting Active Signals
Apply an active signal to a line using one of the methods outlined above in section 4.2.
Switch on the receiver and select a desired locate frequency. For general purpose select 33 kHz.
Note that the screen will now show the addition of a compass (line direction indicator). In the presence of a
locate signal the compass will align itself parallel to the line being located. This ensures that the operator is
aware of the direction of the line.
Hold the locator vertically and rotate it on its axis until the compass indicates across the display as above.
Adjust the sensitivity control so that the display indicates approximately 50%. Keeping the vScan vertical,
move forward slightly. If the bar graph increases you are moving toward the line. If it decreases you are
walking away from it. Move towards the line until a maximum signal is achieved. It may be necessary to
reduce the sensitivity to keep the bar graph on scale. This is normal and should be expected. Try to keep the
vScan vertical and avoid swinging it as this may create false readings.
Move the locator backward and forward to ensure a maximum signal is detected. Use the peak level indicator
to assist.
With the maximum signal found and the compass running across the bar graph, the vScan is now directly
over the line and exactly across it.
Continue to trace the line to its destination or source.
4.3
Taking Depth and Current Measurements
If the depth measurement feature is activated, it is possible to take depth measurement estimations. To take
a depth measurement, first pinpoint the position of the line as above. Place the tip of the vScan on the ground
making sure it is vertical and across the line. Momentarily press the “i” button. The screen will change to a
screen similar to the one below.
If the current measurement feature is activated, the signal current value will also be displayed. This feature is
useful for confirming that the detected signal is radiating from the correct line. In the event the signal is
“bleeding off” onto other services, these signals will generally be less than that of the originating signal.
However, care should be taken as the signal current will gradually reduce over the length of the line, but
watching for a sudden drop in current over distance should indicate that either:
