Hilti PS 20 User manual

PS 20
Operating instructions
GB

2
PS 20 Detector
This operating instructions contains
information on how to use the tool as well
as safety notices (see chapter ”Safety
notices”).
Please read these instructions carefully
before using the tool.
Also place it at the disposal of anyone
who is to use the tool.
We recommend keeping the instructions
and tool together.
Symbols used
Product ID
Type and serial number are on the plate on the
underside of the tool.
Write this information into the manual and always
use it as reference when calling us or our repre-
sentative for service or other related information.
Type: PS 20
Serial no.: ____________________
The symbols used in the manual have the following
meaning:
Warning:
Operating hazard or health hazard, even
death of the operator if disregarded.
Operating hazard or minor health hazard to
the operator. May however cause
major damage to the equipment and envi-
ronment. May also cause expensive repairs.
Operator information
Helps in using the equipment properly and
more efficiently.
Content PS 20 Detector
Operating instructions PS 20
1. Product information . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
1.1 Tool overview ........................................3
1.2 PS 20 features ......................................3
1.3 Display and keypad ..............................3
1.4 Technical data........................................4
1.5 Items supplied at time of purchase ......5
2. Safety precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
2.1 Please read now! ..................................6
2.2 Intended purpose..................................6
2.3 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)....7
2.4 FCC statement ......................................7
2.5 Disposal ................................................7
3. Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
3.1 Inserting the batteries ..........................8
3.2 Switching on/off and calibrating............8
4. Working with the PS 20 . . . . . . . . . .10
4.1 Detecting reinforcement & non-ferrous,
metallic objects..........................................10
4.2 Menu Functions ..............................12
4.2.1 Calibration ......................................12
4.2.2 Setting minimum depth of coverage 12
4.2.3 Switching back light on/off ............13
4.2.4 Setting the offset ............................13
4.2.5 Switching the acoustic beep on/off 14
4.2.6 Localising live electrical cable ........14
5. Settings menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
5.1 Set units to mm/in ..............................16
5.2 Test the display....................................16
6. Care, storage, transportation . . . . . .17
6.1 General care ........................................17
6.2 Storage................................................17
6.3 Transportation ....................................17
7. Displayed notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
8. Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
9. EU-conformity declaration . . . . . . . .18
10. Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

3
1. Product information
1.1 Tool overview
1Keypad
2Display
3Marking hole
4Sensor head
5Battery compartment cover
(exchangeable)
6Sensor head cover (exchangeable)
7Holes for hand strap
1
6
4
3
7
5
2
1. Product information
The tool is intended for use as a detector. It can
detect ferrous metals (E.g. steel reinforcing
bars), non-ferrous electrical conductive metals
(E.g copper pipe, aluminium) and can detect
the presence of an electrical field, making it
possible to detect live electrical cable. As well
as detecting the position of reinforcing bar
accurately, it can also determine the depth of
the reinforcing bar. It cannot determine the
depth of any other material.
The PS 20 detector can, within certain limitati-
ons be used to estimate or localise the position
of a live electrical cable using the special live
electrical cable detection function.
-automatic object recognition and display of
detected reinforcement
-Detection of reinforcing bars within a defined
minimum depth (ignoring any reinforcement
that lie below this depth).
-Adjustment of detected depth for reinforce-
ment containing impurities
-Detection of unshielded, live electrical cable.
1.2 PS 20 features
1.3 Display and keypad
1Indication light
2Acoustic beep indication
3Signal strength bar
4Live wire symbol
5Function menu
6Keypad
7Battery low symbol
8Unit of measure
9Depth of coverage
10 Non-ferrous metal detection.
Typically shows detection of copper or
aluminium
17
8
9
3
2
410
5
6

4
86 280
95
1.4 Technical data
Reinforcement detection
All figures based on bar diameter of 12mm
(0.5 in), round reinforcing bars, magentic per-
meability 85-105, concrete surface smooth
and flat, reinforcing bars at right angles to
direction of scan, no interfering influences.
Depth range for detection
Depth range for detection
0-100mm (0 - 4in)
Depth range for coverage depth
measurement 10 - 80 mm
Accuracy of depth of coverage
measurements
metric:
from 10-30mm - +/-2mm
from 30-60mm - +/-2mm +/-10% of depth
from 60-80mm - +/-5mm +/-10% of depth
imperial:
from 0.4-1.18 in - +/-0.08in
from 1.18-2.36 in - +/-0.08in +/-10% of depth
from 2.36-3.15 in - +/-0.2in +/-10% of depth
Separation of reinforcement
Min 42mm (1.7 in) bewteen bars or
1:1.12, whichever is greater.
Non-ferrous metal detection
0 - 60 mm with 10 - 30 mm (tube-ø)
(0 - 2.4 in with 0.4 - 1.2 in, ( tube-ø)
Localising live electrical cable
Will detect cable 100-240V 50/60Hz.
Accuracy to which cable can be localised on
the surface depends on a variety of factors
such as air humidity, moisture in the materi-
al, elements close to the cable.
Smallest unit displayed 1mm (1/32 in)
1. Product information
Power supply and battery
Type: AA (LR6, AM3, Mignon)
Standard: 4 alkaline manganese cells
Optional: rechargeable NiCd, NiMH
Warning symbol when battery charge low
Battery life – 40h continuous operation at
23°C (73°F)
Automatic switch-off
3 minutes after a key press is requested and
not carried out.
Operating temperature
–10° C to +50° C (14° F ... 122° F)
Storage temperature
–20° C to +60° C (-4° F ... +158° F)
Proofing
Dust and splash proof,
IP 54 in accordance with IEC 529 standards.
Relative humidity
Max. 95% in accordance with IEC 68,
DIN EN 60068. Does not apply to live electric
cable detection which is adversely affected
by high levels of relative humidity. Refer to
chapter 4.1 for guidance.
Weight
600 g (1.32 lbs) not including batteries
Dimensions (LxWxH)
280 x 95 x 86 mm (11" x 3.7" x 3.4")
Illustration with dimensions [mm]

5
1. Product information
Pos. Pcs. Description
11PS 20 case
21PS 20 detector with sensor head
cover and battery compartment
cover
34AA type batteries
41PS 20 carrying pouch
52Marking pencils
61Operating manual and quick guide
71Replacement sensor head cover
81Replacement battery compartment
cover
1.5 Items supplied at time of purchase
12
34
PS 20
56
78

6
2. Safety precautions
2. Safety precautions
2.1 Please read now!
These warnings should put PS 20 owners and
operators in the position where they can recogni-
ze possible danger in advance and avoid it,
i.e. prevent it. The owner must make sure all
operators understand and follow these warnings.
2.2 Intended purpose
The Hilti PS 20 detector is intended to be used
for the following purposes:
•detecting and depth of coverage measure-
ment of steel reinforcement.
•detecting copper tubing and aluminum parts.
•localising live electrical cable.
The PS 20 detects electrically
conductive ferrous and non-ferrous
metals. The presence of small objects
made from such materials or the pre-
sence of objects made from other
materials cannot be ruled out.
Never attempt to open up the structu-
re without first turning off the power
supply.
In order to guarantee reliable results,
the tool must not be used during
large temperature changes. Allow the
tool time to adjust to the surrounding
ambient temperature before use.
Measurement and evaluation of the
measurements should be performed
by properly trained personnel.
Use as intended
Misuse
They:
•have read and understood the operating
instructions
•are aware of the special features and limita-
tions of the measuring principle used
•possess sufficient knowledge of reinforce-
ment technology.
•Using the product without following the
instructions in the manual.
•Using the product outside of application limits
or technical specifications.
•Using the product before checking the mini-
mum depth and offset function
settings. When set incorrectly, these will result
in misleading or incorrect measurements.
•Using in areas of electromagnetic anomalies.
This may result in
misleading or incorrect measurements.
•Using in areas where there is a danger of
explosions.
•Using in the proximity of medical
equipment. Use near such equipment may
result in disturbances or failure of it.
•Do not immerse in water or use in very heavy
rain.
•Opening parts of the product other than the
battery compartment cover.
•Modifying and/or adding parts to the product.
•Using third party accessories not explicitly
approved by Hilti.
•Using a damaged product or a product that
returns results that are not plausible.
•Measuring with very worn or dirty sensor head
cover or battery compartment cover.
•Measuring without sensor head cover or bat-
tery compartment cover
•Using without first testing the accuracy.
•Using to detect metal in humans or animals.
•Use of measuring results for purposes relating
to safety without control measures and eva-
luation by qualified specialists. (e.g. civil
engineers)
•Drilling very close to or on marked live electric
cables or pipes.
•Drilling on marked reinforcement deeper than
the depth displayed on the tool, also taking
into account depth accuracy specifications.
Continues

7
2. Safety precautions
2.3 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
Electromagnetic compatibility means the capabi-
lity of the PS 20 to function smoothly in an envi-
ronment of electromagnetic radiation and elec-
trostatic discharges, without causing electroma-
gnetic interference to other equipment.
Interference caused by electromagnetic radiation
can cause disturbances in the PS 20.
Although the PS 20 meets the strict regulations
and standards which are in force in this respect,
Hilti cannot completely exclude the
possibility that interference may be
caused to the PS 20 by very intensive
electromagnetic radiation, e.g. near
welding equipment, diesel generators
etc.
Under such conditions, check measu-
rement results for their plausibility.
The PS 20 may cause disturbance in
other equipment through electroma-
gnetic radiation.
Although the PS 20 meets the strict
regulations and standards which are in
force in this respect, Hilti cannot com-
pletely exclude the possibility that
interference may be caused by the PS
20, e.g. in electronic measuring equip-
ment.
Possible results of misuse
•Safety hazards to life and limb through faulty
measurement results.
•Structural damage,e.g. from drilling into
loadbearing reinforcing bars.
•Damage to the PS 20.
•Reduction of measuring accuracy.
•Warranty is null and void.
•Safety hazards to life and limb through falling
•Safety hazards to life and limb through elec-
tric shock
Misuse, Continued
Hilti products are largely manufactured from
recyclable materials. A prerequisite for recycling
is proper material separation. In many countries
Hilti is already able to accept your used unit for
recycling. Ask your Hilti representative or the
Hilti customer service.
2.5 Disposal
2.4 FCC statement (applicable in U.S.)
WARNING
This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class II digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a resi-
dential installation. This equipment generates,
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is encoura-
ged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
-Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
-Increase the separation between the equip-
ment and receiver.
-Connect the equipment into an outlet on a cir-
cuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
-Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
Component/assembly Main material Utilization
Plastic case Plastic Plastic recycling
Case Plastic Plastic recycling
Cable Copper, elastomer Scrap metal
Electronic parts Various Electronic scrap
or (sensor, charger) scrap metal
Screws, small parts Steel, brass Scrap metal
Manual Paper Waste paper
Battery, rechargeable Nickel, cadmium Battery recycling
(observe special
local regulations)

8
3. Operation
3. Operation
3.1 Inserting the batteries
Always replace complete battery set.
-do not mix old with new batteries
-do not use batteries from different
manufacturers or of different types.
-only used checked and undamaged
batteries.
When using rechargeable batteries only
use:
-same brand name and same model.
-of same age and charge level.
Never strike the tool in order to remove
the batteries. Always remove them by
hand.
1. Press the sides of the cover
2. Tilt it upwards
3. Remove old batteries if present
4. Insert new batteries as shown inside the bat-
tery compartment
5. Replace the cover by inserting the tab on the
cover into the slot in the tool and clicking
down into place.
Batteries will require replacement when the low
battery symbol shows on the display
-"CA” blinks in the large display and
in the function menu display.
The signal strength bar appears.
A short beep sound follows calibration
(if acoustic beep has not been turned
off).
The screen shows:
The tool is ready for
use.
4
Press On key, ”CA” blinks in the large
display and in the function menu dis-
play.
Beep
Hold the tool at least 1m away from
all metallic objects and tools or
machines that emit a large electro-
magnetic field.
(E.g. other PS 20s, power generators
etc).
Press the On key again:
Continues
3.2 Switching on/off and calibrating

9
3. Operation
3.2 Switching on/off and calibrating,
Continued
Calibration:
-results in higher measuring
accuracy by taking account of the
surrounding environment
An automatic calibration request
follows if:
-the temperature changes by ± 3°C
-6minutes after the last calibration.
When the request occurs, hold the
tool at least 1m away from all metallic
objects and machines that produce a
large electromagnetic field and press
the On key to carry out the calibration.
Then carry on working.
To switch the tool off at any time,
press the On and Function keys simul-
taneously.

10
4. Working with the PS 20
Preconditions:
-tool switched on
-calibration carried out
-Minimum depth of coverage function is
inactive
4.1 Detecting reinforcement &
non-ferrous, metallic objects
Tool:
-place on surface where materials are to be
detected
-move it across the surface with a sweeping
motion. Avoid short, jerking movements as
this can result in erroneous detection.
Detecting reinforcing bar and other ferrous
objects
As a reinforcing bar is approached, the signal
strength shown on the bar increases steadily.
Determining the center of the reinforcing bar:
-the center indication light illuminates.
-the acoustic beep sounds (if active).
-signal strength bar is at a maximum.
-depth of coverage is displayed in [mm] or
[inch]
4. Working with the PS 20
Mark the position through the hole in the sensor
head using a marking pencil supplied.
Note the performance limitations and technical
specifications of the tool regarding depth mea-
surement accuracy where depth of rebar is a
critical factor (E.g. when anchor setting).
When no depth measurement is possible,
”--” is displayed as depth of coverage.
The center, however is detected by the beep
sound, the signal strength bar at maximum and
the center indication light.
Reasons for inability to calculate depth include:
-Object is too deep to determine depth (dee-
per than 80mm or 3.15in)
-Object is not a standard reinforcing bar
-Iron contains a high level of impurities
The PS 20 detects electrically conduc-
tive ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
The presence of small objects made
from such materials or the presence
of objects made from other materials
cannot be ruled out.