RD5100H
2
O+ Operation Manual
© 2018 Radiodetection Ltd
23
Section 6 Depth and current readings
6.1 TruDepth
™
The RD5100H
2
O+ locator provides automatic
measurement of depth for buried cables, pipes and
sondes when the locator is correctly orientated above the
target line or sonde.
Current readings are also displayed simultaneously if the
locator is orientated correctly (feature not available in
sonde or passive frequency modes).
Depth and current readings are automatically displayed
simultaneously but if the locator is not correctly orientated
neither reading will be displayed.
Depth range and accuracy vary depending on the
makeup and type of target utility (for example, cable, pipe
or sonde), its depth and external environmental factors
like electromagnetic noise, ground conditions and
interference.
WARNING: The accuracy of depth measurement is
subject to a number of factors and is meant as a guide
only. Never use the depth measurement to define
mechanical digging depths. Always follow local safe
digging guidelines.
The depth measurement is to the center of the pipe,
cable or sonde. The best readings are typically detected
from
‘active’ signals output by a transmitter rather than
from passive sources.
The RD5100H
2
O+ locator is capable of determining cable
depth when locating some passive power signals.
However passive signals on lines are less suited for
measuring depth because accuracy can be compromised
by interference, for example, due to the passive signal
being present on more than one line.
WARNING: Do not make depth measurements near
bends or tees in the line. Go at least 5m (16ft) from a
bend for best accuracy.
TruDepth for buried conductors or
sondes
TruDepth and Compass
It is important to note that the RD5100H
2
O+ locator will
only display depth and current (in applicable modes)
when the locator is correctly orientated above the target
line, cable or sonde. To ensure the locator is correctly
orientated, use the Compass
(i)
feature.
NOTE.
(i)
The Compass feature is not a magnetic or GPS
enabled compass. The displayed position (north, south,
east and west) is relative to the active frequency signal
detected by the locator.
When locating lines, make sure the Compass display is
in the north-south orientation position.
When locating sondes (see Section 8.4), make sure the
Compass display is in the east-west orientation.
Figure 6.1 - Taking a depth reading
To minimize signal distortion, do not apply the signal by
induction. If Direct Connection or signal clamping is not
possible, place the transmitter in induction at least
15m (50ft) from the point of any depth measurements.
Depth measurements may not be accurate if there is
audible interference or if part of the transmitter signal has
coupled to a nearby line.
Confirming the Peak position coincides with a Null
position indicates that the position is suitable for making
a depth estimate.
Figure 6.2 - Depth readings
Pinpoint the target line accurately with the locator
Check the locator is directly over the line, and at right
angles to it and the locator is vertical. Adjust the
sensitivity level to bring the bar graph indication to
approximately 50%.
If the ground appears to radiate a strong field, perhaps
near a radio station, check the depth by holding the
bottom of the locator
50mm (2”) above the ground and
subtract this reading from the indicated depth.
