Armada Technologies
Pro900 LOCATOR USER GUIDE
14
The first method is to connect the red lead of the transmitter to the
station wire leading to that valve and the black to ground as described
above.
We refer to this as the ‘unbalanced’ method. Operate the Pro900
as above and begin your locate. When you reach the point where a
valve/solenoid is located, the signal will expand into a large (approx. 2-
4ft) diameter area of signal. Many times this signal volume will get
louder. This is your indication that you are over a valve or solenoid.
The second method starts by tracing the wire path as previously
described. Once the wire path has been traced you must power the
transmitter off, remove the black lead from the earth ground and
connect it to the common wire.
We call this the ‘balanced’ method. In the
case of multiple common wires it is suggested that you isolate and
connect to the common wire that services the target valve. Connecting
to multiple commons will work, however it weakens the signal response.
Power the transmitter on and adjust the output signal to suit your needs.
High power output is not necessary and will limit battery life. It is advised
that you once again point the receiver at the transmitter to assure that
both units are on and functioning properly.
Slowly follow the pre-marked wire path. There will be an absence of
signal response due to cancelling of the closely parallel wires until you
near the valve. As you move closer to the valve the receiver will begin
making a chattering sound which will intensify and distort, turn the
volume down and take your time.
Even with the volume at its lowest setting the response of the valve
solenoid will be very loud. Pinpointing the exact location of the solenoid
is possible by decreasing the volume and taking your time. The lower
the volume is, the more accurate you can be.
Slowly start moving the receiver in an X pattern above the high pitched
area, continue reducing the volume while moving the tip of the receiver
closer to the ground. Between the proximity of the receiver tip to the
ground and the reduction in volume you can tell exactly where the valve
solenoid is. Use a pointed probe to find the outline of the valve box
before excavating. This will assure that unwanted damage isn't a result
