3M Dynatel 2250M Series User manual

May 2005
78-8130-6150-0-B
Dynatel™
Cable/Pipe/Fault
Advanced Locator
2250/2273M Series
Operator Manual
2250M
2250M-iD
2273M
2273M-iD

2
Congratulations! You have just purchased one of the finest, most
advanced locating devices available today!
The 3M™ Dynatel™ Cable/Pipe/Fault Locators 2250M-iD/2273M-iD
are designed with all of the functionality of previous Dynatel models,
and iD versions have the enhanced capability to read and write user
information into the new 3M™ EMS iD Ball Markers 1400 Series.
Information such as a pre-programmed identification number, facility
data, application type, placement date and other details can all be read,
stored and downloaded to your PC for enhanced resource management
with this revolutionary equipment. The Dynatel locators will also search
for two different types of utility markers simultaneously. When used in
conjunction with a hand-held GPS, the potential to the mapping industry
multiplies.
3M is dedicated to bringing you premium equipment with outstanding
reliability, backed by one of the best warranties in the business, and
outstanding service.
The EMS iD marker locators are now compatible with select GPS/GIS
field mapping instruments for real-time mapping of marker placement.
It's a simple system for mapping marker placement and saving
information directly into CAD and GIS systems.
Visit our website at http://www.3M.com/dynatel for more application
notes.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
About This Manual ..................................................................................................... 4
Quick Start .................................................................................................................. 4
Battery Installation ................................................................................................. 4
Setting the Receiver Clock ..................................................................................... 5
Transmitter Keypad & Connector Definitions ....................................................... 6
Receiver Keypad, Screen Icons, and Port Definitions ........................................... 9
Configuring the Receiver ......................................................................................... 10
Selecting Depth Units ........................................................................................... 10
Selecting a Language ........................................................................................... 10
Enabling/Disabling Frequencies .......................................................................... 10
Creating User Defined Frequencies ..................................................................... 11
Buried Cables & Pipes ............................................................................................. 13
Transmitter Connection ........................................................................................ 13
Receiver Modes .................................................................................................... 16
Depth & Current Estimate .................................................................................... 18
Frequencies ........................................................................................................... 19
Locating in Directional Peak Mode ..................................................................... 21
Locating Active Duct Probes (Sondes) ................................................................ 24
Buried Sheath Faults and Earth-Return Faults .................................................... 26
Transmitter Setup ................................................................................................. 26
Pinpointing the Buried Fault ................................................................................ 26
Electronic Markers & EMS-iD Markers ............................................................... 28
Enabling/Disabling Marker Types ....................................................................... 28
Locating EMS Markers ........................................................................................ 28
Marker Depth Estimate ........................................................................................ 32
Creating/Editing Templates for iD Markers ........................................................ 35
Writing iD Markers .............................................................................................. 38
Modifying Marker Data to be Programmed ........................................................ 40
Reading iD Markers ............................................................................................. 42
GPS Operation ...................................................................................................... 43
Activation Key ................................................................................................ 43
Serial Number and Software Version ............................................................. 43
Inputting GPS Activation Key ........................................................................ 43
Communicating with GPS Unit ..................................................................... 44
Capturing the GPS Coordinates ..................................................................... 44
Sending iD Data Sheet ................................................................................... 45
Reviewing Marker History ................................................................................... 45
Other Applications .................................................................................................... 47
Aerial Faults (Toning) .......................................................................................... 47
Cable Identification .............................................................................................. 49
Help Mode ................................................................................................................. 50
3M™ Dynatel™ PC Tool Kit ...................................................................................... 50
Self Test of Receiver ................................................................................................. 51
Product Description And Optional Accessories .................................................... 51

ABOUT THIS MANUAL
There are two basic models included in the 3M™ Dynatel™ Locator
2200M Series. The 2250M locator is designed for cable/pipe locating.
The 2273M unit is designed for cable/pipe and fault locating. The iD
option (read/write capability to 3M™ iD Markers 1400 Series) is available
for both models. This instruction manual will include all features. All
instructions are applicable to both products, unless noted.
In order to demonstrate all available functions, the illustrations depict the
2273M-iD unit. The 2250M-iD locator may vary from the illustrations
shown.
QUICK START
Battery Installation
Transmitter
Press and hold OFF [T-1] to manually test the batteries. The display and
audio will indicate one of the following levels: (OK w/solid tone = good;
LO w/beeping tone = low; “--” w/no tone = replace)
Receiver
4
6 'C'
cells
8 'AA'
cells

5
The receiver batteries are tested for two seconds every time the unit is
turned on.
The bar graph on the screen will fill to the relative battery level.
The Battery icon [8] on the Locate screen will continuously indicate the
battery level.
Battery Disposal: Since regulations vary, consult applicable guidelines or
authorities for proper disposal.
Setting the Receiver Clock
Set the time, date, and date format of the receiver. Depth and Current
measurements are time and date stamped, as well as read/write marker
information (iD units only).
Menu [6] + Setup [SK] + Clock [SK]
Press the left/right arrow [SK] to highlight the digit of the date or time to
change.
Press the + or - [SK] to increment or decrement.
When the date format is highlighted, the format will toggle between mm/dd/
yy and dd/mm/yy.
Press OK [5] to save, or Menu [6] to cancel.
 Caution
Insure batteries are installed with proper polarity. Use only "AA" size
batteries. Do not charge batteries or dispose of them in fire. Batteries may
leak or explode and cause personal injury. Always remove batteries when
storing the units for long periods of time.

6
Transmitter Keypad and Connector Definitions
OFF: [T-1] Turns unit off and performs battery test.
OHM / FAULT / TONE: [T-2] Turns the unit on and cycles through the
following commands when pressed repeatedly.
OHM METER: Measures the continuity of the trace conductor/pipe and its
far-end ground. It is also used to measure the fault resistance to earth.
FAULT LOCATE: (2273M units only) In this mode, the transmitter sends
two alternating frequencies (577 Hz and 33 KHz) as well as fault signals
10 and 20 Hz.
TONE: In the tone mode, the transmitter generates 577 Hz and 200 KHz
signals.
TRACE: [T-3] Turns the unit on and places the unit in Trace (Locate) mode.
Cycle through the transmitter frequencies by pressing [T-3] repeatedly.
SELECT FREQUENCY: Press TRACE [T-3] repeatedly to cycle the
transmitter through four frequencies (577 Hz, 33 KHz, 8 KHz, and
200 KHz). The selected frequency will be displayed [T-4]. ‘ALL’ indicates
that all four frequencies are transmitting simultaneously.
DISPLAY: [T-4]
INDICATOR FLAGS: These flags coincide with the operational mode of
the transmitter. (From top left to bottom right) Fault mode [T-2] (2273M
only), Tone [T-2], Trace (Locate) mode [T-3], Ohm meter [T-2], Voltage (at
start up the transmitter checks for high voltage), and the Output Flag (no
flag = low output; flag = high output; flashing flag = 5 Watt mode).
DIGITAL DISPLAY: Indicates frequency, relative current, resistance, battery
level and voltage.
OUTPUT: [T-5] Cycles output level; normal, high, and 5 Watt (optional).
Normal=No Flag; 3 Watt=Flag; 5 Watt=Flashing Flag
OUTPUT JACK: [T-6] Port for direct connect cables or 3M™ Dynatel™
Dyna-coupler.
EXTERNAL 5 WATT JACK: [T-7] Port to connect cigarette lighter adapter
cable, or rechargeable battery (5 Watt units only).
T-1 T-2 T-4 T-5 T-6
T-3
T-7

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5 Watt Transmitter Output (Optional)
An external 12V DC source is required for 5 Watt output.
Use the cigarette lighter adapter cable (included with 5W units) to connect
the DC power from a vehicle’s battery source to the transmitter’s
external 5 Watt jack [T-7].
Press Output [T-5] twice for 5 Watt (5W) mode.
The indicator flag will flash when the transmitter is in 5W mode.
Note: The external DC source does not charge the internal batteries.
 WARNING
Voltage greater than 240 volts will damage equipment and could cause
personal injury or death. Make all connections before turning on the
Transmitter. Activate the Transmitter in the Ohms mode and check the
display for voltage readings. Follow standard procedures for reducing the
voltage.
 WARNING
Potential for electrical shock exists when handling connection cables
while the Transmitter is in the TRACE, FAULT or TONE modes. Turn the
Transmitter off before handling connection cables.
Rechargeable Battery (optional)
The 3M™ Dynatel™ Sealed Gel-Cell Battery 2200RB can be used as an
auxiliary battery in 3M™ Dynatel™ 2200 Series Transmitters. It plugs into the
external 5 Watt jack [T-7] and provides battery powering for the transmitter.
When the rechargeable battery is plugged in, normal output (0.5W), high
output (3.0W), and 5 watt output is available. When the rechargeable pack is
connected to the transmitter, the alkaline batteries are bypassed.

8
Figure 1
Figure 2

9
Receiver Keypad Definitions
Figure 1
POWER: [1] Turns unit off and on.
SPEAKER: [2] Adjusts the volume of the receiver (off, low, med, high, and Xpand).
SPEAKER ICON [2A]: Indicates the relative volume level of the receiver. When
the third ring is dotted and ‘xpnd’ appears below the speaker icon, the receiver is in
“Expander” mode. This mode accentuates any change in signal level.
CONTRAST: [3] The arrows located above and below the contrast icon will adjust
the contrast of the screen.
GAIN: [4] Adjusts the sensitivity of the receiver either up or down to maintain a
satisfactory audio and bar graph signal level.
LOCATE/OK: [5] Sets the receiver to trace mode for locating cable or pipe.
Acknowledges setup entries (OK).
MENU: [6] Displays setup screen for configuration of the unit, i.e.: clock, language,
depth units, marker data, communication port settings, and frequencies.
BACKLIGHT: [7] Toggles the backlight low, high, and off.
BATTERY ICON: [8] Indicates battery level.
SOFT KEY: [SK] There are four soft keys on the receiver. The function of each key
is shown above the key on the display screen. The functions will change, depending on
the operation mode of the receiver. For instruction purposes, the display command is
followed by [SK] to identify it as a soft key.
SOFT KEY COMMAND: [9] Definitions for each of the four soft key functions.
SIGNAL STRENGTH: [10] Digital reading of the signal the receiver is detecting.
BAR GRAPH: [11] Graphical representation of the received signal.
GAIN LEVEL: [12] Displays relative gain level.
Figure 2
EXTERNAL JACK: [13] Port to connect cables from external devices such as the
earth frame, a second coupler, or toning coil.
SERIAL PORT: [14] RS232 port to connect the receiver to a PC or GPS unit.
EARPHONE JACK: [15] Will fit standard 1/8 inch mini-jack mono earphone plug
(not included).

CONFIGURING THE RECEIVER
In the setup mode the units of depth measurement, time, date, and date
format can be set. The receiver can be configured to detect only certain
frequencies and/or specific utility markers. User defined frequencies can be
programmed, language of the receiver can be selected, and Tone frequencies set.
The RS232 com port can be configured for a computer or various types of GPS
devices.
Selecting Depth Units
Menu [6] + Setup [SK] +Units [SK]
Press Units [SK].
The soft key command will toggle between inches (in),
centimeters (cm), and feet/inches (ft-in).
Selecting a Language
Menu [6] + Setup [SK] + Lang [SK]
The soft key command will cycle through all available languages.
Enabling/Disabling Frequencies
Menu [6] + Setup [SK] + More>> [SK] + Locate Freq [SK]
The user can select the frequencies that the receiver will detect. All the
available frequencies are listed in four groups (L to R: Active, Power,
Passive, and Auxiliary). The Auxiliary group also contains the User Defined
Frequencies. (See Creating User Defined Frequencies.)
10

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1. Press the right arrow [SK] to move the highlight bar to the section of
frequencies to enable, or disable.
2. Press the up/down arrows [SK] to highlight the specific frequency.
3. Press Enabl/Disabl [SK]. (Enable denoted by ✓.)
4. Repeat steps 2 & 3 to enable/disable other frequencies.
4. Press OK [5] to save.
Creating User Defined Frequencies
Menu [6] + Setup [SK] + More>> [SK] + Locate Freq [SK]
There are four user defined frequencies available on the receiver. These
frequencies must be between 50 Hz and 999 Hz. These Frequencies are
found in the column on the far right of the Locate Freq screen (Auxiliary
frequencies). These frequencies, once programmed, will appear in the
Locate mode under the Aux [SK] frequency list.
To program the user defined frequencies press the right arrow [SK] to
highlight the Auxiliary group of frequencies. Press the up/down arrows [SK]
to highlight the user frequency to program. Press Enabl/Disabl [SK].

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A User Defined Frequency must be between 50 Hz and 999 Hz.
Press the left/right arrows [SK] to move the square cursor to a digit.
Press Select [SK] to enter the number in the frequency field.
Press OK [5] to save the programmed frequency, or Press Exit [SK] to cancel.
The frequency will appear in the Locate Frequency screen as U ###.
Note: To redefine a previously programmed user frequency, select the
back arrow with the cursor and delete the previous entry.
Menu + More>> + Filter [SK Toggle]
In order to filter out unwanted power influences while locating with user-
defined frequencies, verify the correct frequency is selected for your
location (default 60 Hz).

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BURIED CABLES AND PIPES
Transmitter Connections
Perform a battery test. Use one of the following three methods to produce a
trace signal on the target pipe or cable.
Direct Connect Method
Plug the direct connect cable into the output jack [T-6] of the transmitter.
Place the ground rod in the earth perpendicular to the suspected cable/
pipe path. Connect the black clip to the ground rod. If necessary, extend
the black lead with the 3M™ Dynatel™ Ground Extension Cable #9043
(available separately).
Remove the ground bonding and attach the red clip to the shield of the
cable, pipe, or target conductor. (If locating power cables, the red clip can
be attached to the transformer cabinet, or the meter box).

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Turn the transmitter on by pressing OHMS [T-2]. The continuity of the circuit
will be measured. The results are displayed [T-4] in ohms and as a tone.
If the continuity of the circuit is very good (the reading on the display is
less than 3KΩ and a solid tone from the transmitter is heard) all frequencies
can be used to locate. Always use the lowest frequency available. Lower
frequencies are less likely to ‘bleed over’ to other cables in the same area,
and are very good for tracing over long distances.
If the circuit reads more than 3KΩ, but less than 10KΩ (indicated by a
beeping tone from the transmitter) it will be necessary to use a higher
frequency than 577 Hz in order to locate the cable/pipe.
If the circuit reads more than 10KΩ, it will be necessary to use an RF signal
such as 33 KHz or 200 KHz.
If there is no tone and the transmitter indicates that there is an open circuit
(OL in the display) this could be an indication of a poor ground, or an
open-ended cable or pipe. Use the highest possible frequency available, at
high level. If it is an open-ended cable or pipe, the receiver’s response will
decrease suddenly at the site of the clear or severed end.
Note: In the Ohms mode, the transmitter can detect voltage as well as
ohms. If a low voltage is detected, the display will alternate between
displaying ohms and volts. When displaying ohms, the flag over the Ω
symbol will be visible. When displaying volts, the flag over the ‘V’ will be
visible. When the voltage magnitude is sufficient to impair the accuracy
of the ohms measurement, only voltage will be displayed. If the voltage is
AC, a sine wave will be visible on the display [T-4]. If a high AC voltage is
detected, a rapid beeping tone will be heard.
Press the TRACE [T-3] to select trace mode. Press [T-3] again to select the
frequency.
Press OUTPUT [T-5] to select high output level for longer tracing distances
or deep pipe/cable.

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Coupler Method
Connect the 3M™ Dynatel™ Dyna-Coupler to the transmitter output jack [T-
6] using the coupler cable (9011).
Clamp the coupler around the cable or pipe, below any bonds, just before it
enters the earth. The jaws of the coupler must fully close.
Press TRACE [T-3] to turn on the transmitter. Press again to select 8KHz,
33 KHz, or 200 KHz.
Note: When using a coupler, always select high output level by pressing
the output key [T-5] on the transmitter.
Induction
Disconnect any cable plugged into the transmitter output jack.
Place the transmitter on the ground over the target path with the lid hinge in
line with the cable/pipe path.
Press the TRACE [T-3] to turn on the transmitter in trace mode.
Press TRACE [T-3] again to select 33 KHz or 200 KHz.
For greater tracing range, select high output level by pressing OUTPUT [T-5].
Note: The receiver must be at least 50 feet away from the transmitter to
begin tracing the target path.

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Receiver Modes
Directional Peak (DirPk) [SK Toggle]
In DirPk mode, four peak antennas are used to analyze the magnetic field
pattern. The bar graph indicates signal strength and the directional arrows
sense the edges of the magnetic field. The left/right arrows will indicate the
direction to the nearest cable that is in-line with the receiver handle.
As the antenna crosses the cable or pipe, the receiver speaker volume
increases to a maximum, the bar graph [11] fills from both sides toward the
middle, and the numeric signal strength [10] increases. As the antenna moves
off the target path, the speaker volume decreases and the bar graph opens. Use
the bar graph and the numeric signal indicator to locate the exact target path.
Left of target path Right of target path
Directly over target path
Directional Null
(DirNull) [SK Toggle]
In DirNull mode, as the operator approaches the cable or pipe, the numerical
signal will increase then fall sharply as the receiver crosses the target cable
or pipe. The bar graph fills from both sides toward the middle and the
Note: When field distortion, due to congestion, is affecting the receiver
the left/right arrows may not coincide with the bar graph and signal level.
Use the maximum numerical signal strength to target the cable or pipe.
Once the target path has been located, the arrows at the top of the screen will
indicate the location of the target path in relationship to the receiver.

17
receiver speaker volume decreases. As the antenna moves off the target path,
the bar graph opens, the signal strength increases, and the speaker volume
increases. Gain adjust is automatic in DirNull mode.
The center of the DirNull screen provides a ‘compass view’ of the target
path. An arrow will point toward the location of the cable/pipe in 45-degree
steps. A solid line will appear over the cable/pipe, indicating its orientation
to the receiver handle.
For example:
Figure 1: If the target path is to the right of the receiver, and running
parallel to the operator, the right arrow will display.
Figure 2: If the target path is to the left and in front of the operator (not
running parallel to the receiver) the arrow will point toward the top left side
of the screen.
Figure 3: When the receiver crosses the target path, a solid line will appear,
instead of arrows, indicating the target path and its orientation to the receiver.
Figure 1 Figure 2
Figure 3
Before marking target path, always use directional peak mode to verify
location.
Special Peak (Spl Pk)
Special Peak Mode turns on only the peak antenna closest to the ground.
Special Peak Mode is used in applications such as very deep cable, or when
the signal is too weak for normal or directional peak tracing.

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Expanded Mode
When the third ring of the speaker icon is dotted or broken and ‘xpnd’ appears
below the speaker icon, the receiver is in “Expanded” mode. The audible
response of the receiver sharpens, allowing the locator to detect very small
signal changes.
Depth and Current Estimate
To verify target path, depth and current can be helpful tools.
Pinpoint the cable or pipe being located.
Lower the tip of the receiver to the ground and press Depth [SK].
The depth to the target cable or pipe is displayed in units, as specified in
the receiver set up menu. The bold current reading is a relative current
measurement. This reading can be compared to the current reading that
alternately flashes with the frequency on the transmitter. The milliamp
reading is an actual current measurement.
.
There are two options for measuring depth. Live depth is a continuous
measurement. 1-Shot Depth is an averaging of the depth reading. When in
1-Shot mode, the unit will average the depth reading for three seconds, and
then display the result on the screen. Press Depth [SK] to alternate between
the two modes.

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Five depth readings can be saved with the time, date, and relative current
measured.
Save [SK] will place each entry in sequential order in memory (M1 - M5)
until five readings have been stored. The unit will overwrite saved entries
in excess of five, beginning with M1.
Press Clear All [SK] to delete all stored depth information.
The operator may select the memory location to store the depth readings
by pressing Mem Select [SK]. When the preferred location appears on the
screen, press Save [SK]. The screen and memory location will populate with
the current information.
Each memory location can be reviewed by pressing Mem Select [SK].
Press Locate [5] to return to Locate Mode.
Frequencies
Active
Active frequencies are used to trace signals supplied by a 3M™ Dynatel™
Transmitter 2200 Series (577 Hz, 8 KHz, 33 KHz, or 200 KHz).
Select the frequency that the transmitter is generating.
Press Locate [5]
Press Cable/Pipe [SK]
Press Freq [SK]
Press ACTIVE [SK Toggle] until the desired frequency is displayed in the
soft key command [9] (“Active” 577, 8K, 33K or 200K)
Press Locate [5] to return to Locate mode.

2020
Power
Power frequencies refer to 50 or 60 Hz signals, and their harmonics that can
be traced without the use of a transmitter.
60H (high harmonic): Best for general locating of passive power.
60L (low harmonic): Secondary choice for passive power locating. May be
used when high harmonic is weak or erratic.
120 Hz: Used for locating rectified AC power signals, often found on
pipelines using impressed current cathodic protection.
Press Locate [5]
Press Cable/Pipe [SK]
Press Freq [SK]
Press Power [SK Toggle] until the desired frequency is displayed in the
soft key command [9] (“Power” 60L, 60H, or 120).
Press Locate [5] to return to Locate mode.
All US receivers default to 60 Hz.
To set the receiver to detect 50 Hz signals refer to Enabling/Disabling
Frequencies.
Passive
The receiver (without a 3M™ Dynatel™ Transmitter 2200) can be used to detect
some CATV cables (31.5 KHz).
(A horizontal-scan television NTSC must be turned on to generate this
frequency.)
Press Locate [5]
Press Cable/Pipe [SK]
Press Freq [SK]
Press Pasv [SK Toggle]
Press Locate [5] to return to Locate mode.
Auxiliary
Auxiliary frequencies are signals generated from remote location transmitters,
or frequency generating transmitters.
Press Locate [5]
Press Cable/Pipe [SK]
Press Freq [SK]
Press Aux [SK Toggle] until the desired frequency is displayed
in the softkey command [9] (“Aux” 273 , 333 340, 393, 400, 460,
512, 560 Hz, or user defined frequencies).
Press Locate [5] to return to Locate mode.