HT HT-5000 User manual

©Copyright HT ITALIA 2009 Release IT 1.00 - 16/03/2009
ENGLISH
User manual

HT-5000
EN - 1
Indice:
1SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND PROCEDURES ..........................................................2
2DESCRIZIONE GENERALE.........................................................................................3
3PREPARATION FOR USE ...........................................................................................3
3.1 Initial ......................................................................................................................3
3.2 Supply voltage.......................................................................................................3
3.3 Calibration .............................................................................................................3
3.4 Storage..................................................................................................................3
4OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.....................................................................................4
4.1 Instrument description ...........................................................................................4
4.1.1 Description of the receiver RX5000 ............................................................................. 4
4.1.2 Display and control panel of RX5000........................................................................... 5
4.1.3 Description of transmitter TX5000................................................................................ 6
4.2 Connection and initial use of transmitter TX5000 ..................................................7
4.2.1 Transmitter signals and operation modes .................................................................... 7
4.2.2 Options for direct and inductive signal coupling........................................................... 8
4.2.2.1 Direct coupling on cables and pipes ................................................................................... 8
4.2.2.2 Coupling with special accessories .................................................................................... 10
4.2.2.3 Inductive signal coupling ................................................................................................... 11
4.2.2.4 Signal coupling in non-metallic pipes................................................................................ 13
4.2.3 Initial use of the transmitter TX5000 .......................................................................... 14
4.3 Use of receiver RX5000 ......................................................................................15
4.3.1 Modes of operation for the receiver RX5000 ............................................................. 15
4.3.1.1 Regulating the sensitivity level to match the reception signal strength............................. 16
4.3.1.2 Handling the receiver and locating the line ....................................................................... 17
4.3.1.3 Changing of the system settings ....................................................................................... 18
4.3.2 General site surveying ............................................................................................... 19
4.3.3 Determining the direction of a line.............................................................................. 20
4.3.4 Determining the depth of a line .................................................................................. 21
4.3.5 Functional test of the receiver .................................................................................... 24
5MAINTENANCE .........................................................................................................26
5.1 Replacement floor cap of the receiver RX5000 ...................................................26
5.2 Replacement batteries of receiver RX5000 .........................................................26
5.3 Replacement batteries of transmitter TX5000 .....................................................27
5.4 Cleaning ..............................................................................................................27
5.5 End of life ............................................................................................................27
6TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION...................................................................................28
6.1 Technical characteristics of receiver RX5000......................................................28
6.2 Technical characteristics of transmitter TX5000..................................................29
6.3 General specifications .........................................................................................29
6.4 Accessories .........................................................................................................29
6.4.1 Standard accessories................................................................................................. 29
6.4.2 Optional accessories.................................................................................................. 29
7SERVICE....................................................................................................................30
7.1 Warranty conditions.............................................................................................30
7.2 Service ................................................................................................................30

HT-5000
EN - 2
1 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND PROCEDURES
This instrument conforms with safety Standard IEC/EN61010-1 related to electronic
measuring instruments. For your own safety and to avoid damaging the instrument follow
the procedures described in this instruction manual and read carefully all notes preceded
by this symbol .
When taking measurements:
•It is important to observe the general electric regulations of the particular country in
which the device will be setup and used, as well as current national regulations for
accident prevention and current company internal regulations (work, operating and
safety regulations
•The use of original accessories ensures system safety and reliable operation. The use
of other parts is not permitted and shall result in termination of the warranty
•Connections to live cables should be made by qualified personnel
•Keep you insulated from the object under test
•Do not touch exposed metal parts such as test lead ends, sockets, fixing objects,
circuits etc
•Avoid doing that if you notice anomalous conditions such as breakages, deformations,
fractures, leakages of battery liquid, blind display etc
•HT-5000 can only locate lines which emit a signal. Therefore it is important to always
exercise extreme caution when digging, even if no lines have been found
•Refer always to the user manual. An improper use may damage the instrument or its
components
The following symbols are used on meter and in manual:
CAUTION - refer to the instruction manual - an improper use may damage the
instrument or its components
Double insulated meter

HT-5000
EN - 3
2 DESCRIZIONE GENERALE
The HT-5000 location system is designed for the uncomplicated and user-friendly
determination of the location, orientation and depth of metallic lines (e.g. cable and pipe
lines). It can be used to probe areas for unknown lines or for locating specific lines.
HT-5000 (composed by a TX5000 transmitter unit and RX5000 receiver unit) is
distinguished by the following features:
•Robust construction for use in poor weather and in harsh environments
•Simple, user-friendly operation concept with a minimum number of controls
•Reliable battery status indicator
The RX5000 receiver is distinguished by the following features:
•passive signal modes for locating lines without the TX5000 transmitter
•active signal modes for locating lines / probes when used together with a transmitter
•Automatic depth determination when used together with a transmitter
•Semi-automatic depth estimation in passive signal modes
•Sensitivity level can be adjusted automatically or manually
•Lighted display for use in dim environments
3 PREPARATION FOR USE
3.1 INITIAL
This instrument was checked both mechanically and electrically prior to shipment.
All possible cares and precautions were taken to let you receive the instrument in perfect
conditions. Notwithstanding we suggest you to check it rapidly (eventual damages may
have occurred during transport – if so please contact the local distributor from whom you
bought the item).
Make sure that all standard accessories mentioned in paragraph 6.4. are included.
Should you have to return back the instrument for any reason please follow the
instructions mentioned in chapter 7
3.2 SUPPLY VOLTAGE
The TX5000 unit is supplied by 6x1.5V alkaline batteries type IEC LR20 included as
standard accessories. The battery life is about 40 hours. The RX5000 unit is supplied by
10x1.5V alkaline batteries type IEC LR06 with battery life of about 40 hours
3.3 CALIBRATION
The instrument complies with the technical specifications contained in this manual and
such compliance is guaranteed for 12 months
3.4 STORAGE
After a period of storage in extreme environmental conditions exceeding the limits
mentioned in paragraphs 6.1 and 6.2 let the instrument resume normal operating
conditions before using it

HT-5000
EN - 4
4 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
4.1 INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION
4.1.1 Description of the receiver RX5000
Fig. 1: Description of the receiver RX5000
Item Description
1 Control panel with display (see paragraph 4.1.2)
2
Speaker with volume control
The speaker plays back various acoustic signals (e.g. beeps
with modulating pitch relative to the signal strength)
Quieter Louder
When the receiver is switched on, the volume is set at a
standard level. The receiver will only start with the volume
at a different level if the volume has been manually
increased before switching off the receiver
3 Headphone jack
To connect headphones with a 3.5 mm plug connector
4 Battery compartment
5 Floor cap
This replaceable floor cap serves to protect the housing

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4.1.2 Display and control panel of RX5000
Fig. 2: Display and control panel of RX5000
Item Description
1
Light sensor
Light sensitive photo cells to automatically regulate the display
lighting
The display lighting can be manually activated for one
minute by briefly covering the light sensor
2
On/Off switch
By quickly pressing this button the receiver can be switched on
or off
The RX5000 will switch off automatically if no functions are
carried out within 7 minutes of being switched on
3
Display
Provides a visual indication of reception strength, line depth,
mode of operation, battery status and menu items
4
Function key 1
Depending on the status of the system, this button is used to:
•Manually decrease reception sensitivity
•Start measuring depth
5
Function key 2
Depending on the status of the system, this button is used to:
•Adjust reception sensitivity
•Start measuring depth
6
Function key 3
Depending on the status of the system, this button is used to:
•Select the mode of operation / receiving frequency
•Manually increase reception sensitivity
1
4
3
2
6
5

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4.1.3 Description of transmitter TX5000
The TX5000 transmitter is distinguished by the following features:
•Inductive coupling of the signal using the integrated antenna or transmitter clamp
•Direct (galvanic) coupling of the signal using connected equipment (such as the
measurement cable and power socket adapter)
•Two-step adjustable transmission power (0.1W / 0.5W)
•Selectable signal output continuous or pulsed
Fig. 3: Front panel of transmitter TX5000
Item Description
1
Battery status indicator
When the battery status LED blinks in red, the batteries need
to be replaced
2
On/Off switch
By quickly pressing this button the TX5000 can be switched on
or off.
All appropriate LED’s blink when the transmitter is on,
depending on operating function
3
Signal type function key
This key is used to switch between continuous and pulsed
signal output
4
Jacks for connecting accessories
These jacks are used to create a direct galvanic connection
with the target line or to create a connection using a special
connection set (e.g. 100mm transmitter clamp or house
connection set)
5
Mode function key
This key is used to switch between inductive and direct signal
coupling (galvanically or via transmitter clamp)
6
Signal strength function key
This key is used to select one of two signal strength levels
(0.1W or 0.5W)

HT-5000
EN - 7
4.2 CONNECTION AND INITIAL USE OF TRANSMITTER TX5000
4.2.1 Transmitter signals and operation modes
The type and strength of the output signal can be configured by the user as follows to
meet the specific requirements of either the line to be located or the site to be surveyed:
Symbol Signal type
Pulsed signal
As it is more easily distinguished from other signals, the pulsed signal
is helpful for locating when there is interference within the frequency
range of the transmitter. This also helps to conserve the batteries
Depth measurements cannot be made using a pulsating signal
Continuous signal
This signal type has to be activated before a taking a depth
measurement
Symbol Signal strength
Low output signal strength (0.1W)
Low signal strength conserves the batteries
High output signal strength (0.5W)
Symbol Operation modes
Inductive connection
In this mode of operation the transmitter's signal is emitted through
the integrated antenna and is thereby inductively coupled with any
metallic lines located within a certain radius
Direct connection
In this mode of operation the signal is directly coupled with a metallic
line via the measurement cable which is connected to the jacks on
the front panel of the transmitter. Transmitter clamps, alligator clips or
power socket adapters (for example) may be used to connect the
measurement cable to the lines

HT-5000
EN - 8
4.2.2 Options for direct and inductive signal coupling
CAUTION
If the transmitter is connected to electrical service cables, it has to be
considered that the device is designed to achieve CAT II / CAT III 440 V and
CAT IV 300 V with Class 2 protection (double insulation) according to IEC / EN
61010-1. This means that the maximum voltage between the two terminals
must not exceed 440 V in measurement categories CAT II / CAT III and 300 V
in measurement category CAT IV
4.2.2.1 Direct coupling on cables and pipes
Direct galvanic coupling is practical for cables which are easily accessible and free of
current. The method of connection is dependent upon the position and nature of the lines
(e.g. insulation, cable conduit, accessibility of the cable ends).
Direct coupling presents a reliable option for selective cable location, as the signal can be
coupled onto a specific cable with virtually no loss.
The following illustration shows an example of direct coupling:
Fig. 4: Direct coupling on cables and pipes
CAUTION
If the lines being located are energised, the following five safety precautions
should be taken before connecting the transmitter:
1. Disconnect power supply
2. Secure against reconnection
3. Check for presence of current
4. Make earth connection and short circuit of parts
5. Cover or block access to adjacent components which are energized
If the system cannot be de-energized the use of the inductive coupling
clamp is possible to perform the location of objects
The following table explains various basic principles of direct galvanic coupling.

HT-5000
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Application Principle of coupling
Single-wire lines or pipes (with
or without insulation against
earthing)
The distance between the earth
spike and the ends of the
connected lines should be as great
as possible
There is a danger of the return
current flowing through the
earth into adjacent lines, which
could result in their path being
follow
Single-wire cable with metallic
screen and earthing insulation
Short circuit between internal
conductor and screen at the end of
the cable with earthing at the
beginning and end of the cable as
well
If the earth connections made
are unfavourable, the current
in the internal conductor and
the return current in the screen
will cancel each other out.
Under certain circumstances
this can prevent the cable from
being detected. Alternatively, a
connection without an earth
connection can also be made
Multiple-wire cable (internal
conductor connected or
disconnected) with metallic
screen and earthing insulation
verso terra
Same application as in example 1
Metallic conduit (with or without
insulation against earthing)
The earth spike and the conduit
should be spaced as far apart as
possible. Under certain
circumstances, optimum
positioning of the earth spike may
require several attempts
If a return wire is available
The spacing of the return wire
should correspond to at least
10 times the depth of the line being
located
Pair of wires (with or without
screen) with short circuit at the
end of the cable
Adjacent conductors
horizontal Ö
Minimum of the reception
signal
vertically Ö
Maximum of the reception
signal

HT-5000
EN - 10
4.2.2.2 Coupling with special accessories
The signal from the transmitter can be directly coupled into plug sockets, antenna
connections coax and telephone jacks with the aid of a suitable adapter cable (Cod.
890008852). In doing so, it is not necessary to disconnect the lines.
Fig. 5: Couplng via adapter cable
The transmitter signal can be coupled onto easily accessible cables with the aid of a
100mm transmitter clamp (Cod. 820005314). In doing so, it is not necessary to disconnect
the cables
Fig. 6: Coupling via transmitter clamp
By ensuring that the transmitter clamp is completely closed around the cable, only a small
leakage field will be generated. This can significantly reduce the unwanted coupling of the
signal onto neighbouring lines.
Ideally the cables will be grounded at both ends, but even if they are not grounded at one
end, selecting high power transmitter output will assist easy location

HT-5000
EN - 11
4.2.2.3 Inductive signal coupling
For lines which are not easily accessible, the signal from the transmitter has to be
inductively coupled via the integrated antenna. The inductive coupling of the signal is
highly recommended if unknown lines are to be located (e.g. at a construction site).
To determine the orientation of a specific line, the transmitter has to be positioned directly
above the presumed line as shown in Fig. 7. In doing so, the best signal coupling is
achieved when the handle of the transmitter housing is aligned with the presumed lay of
the line
Fig. 7:Inductive signal coupling
CAUTION
When locating lines using inductive signal coupling, the following guidelines
should be observed:
•
A
s the signal can be coupled onto other conductors when using inductive
coupling, direct coupling of the transmitter is always preferable when
locating lines selectively. Inductive signal coupling should only be opted for
in cases where the line being located is not easily accessible (see
paragraph 4.2.1 and 4.2.2)
•While taking measurements, make sure that a distance of at least 15m is
always maintained between the receiver and transmitter in order to prevent
the coupling of the transmitter's signal through the air
•When searching for unknown lines at a site, the position of the transmitter
has to be changed at least once by one metre and 90°
•It is also a good idea to position the transmitter at visible cable ends such as
at distribution boxes or light poles

HT-5000
EN - 12
Under certain circumstances lines at lower depths can 'hide' deeper, adjacent lines, thus
making it more difficult to locate them.
In such cases, the transmission characteristics of the transmitter TX5000 can be fully
utilised and the lines which have already been located can be masked out (see Fig. 8)
Fig. 8: Masking-out lines
Follow the steps listed below in order to locate lines by masking-out adjacent lines
Step Action
1 Use the RX5000 and TX5000 to locate and pinpoint a buried line (see
paragraph 4.3.2)
2
With the RX5000 rested on the ground straight above the located
line, ask a colleague to place the TX5000 on its back (see Fig. 8)
nearby the line path (at least 15m away from the receiver)
3
Slide the TX5000 across the line until the signal strength bargraph is
lowest, indicating that the transmitter is directly above the line which,
thus, is masked-out
Note that adjacent lines may not be parallel with the first cable
route, so sweep the receiver around in a circle about 10m - 15m
radius from the transmitter, with the handle pointing towards the
transmitter. Any metallic lines within 2.5m of the transmitter will be
coupled with the transmitted signal
4
Pinpoint and determine the direction of any buried lines (see
paragraph 4.3.1.2)
Line with weaker
inductive coupling
Line with good
inductive cou
p
lin
g

HT-5000
EN - 13
4.2.2.4 Signal coupling in non-metallic pipes
With the aid of the FlexSonde GOK50-R the transmitter's signal can be transmitted
through non-metallic pipes, as shown in the picture below:
Fig. 9: Signal coupling in non-metallic pipes
Alternatively, any other active probe (e.g. a camera probe) with adequate transmitting
frequency can be located using the receiver. For a detailed description, please refer to the
manual of the respective product.
When locating non-metallic pipes, the following guidelines should be observed:
•Contrary to the line location, a probe location has to be performed in perpendicular
position to the probe, i.e., the handle of the receiver has to be hold at right angle to the
probe
•Practice locating the probe or FlexSonde head before pushing it into the drain or duct.
•Strongest signal will be detected when the receiver is above and perpendicular to the
probe (as shown in Fig. 9)
The signal transmitted by the probe results in three signal maxima on the ground surface
level. Typically, there is a smaller maximum in front of the actual signal maximum and one
behind it.
For this reason, it should be always evaluated whether there are further signal maxima in
front of or behind the detected signal maximum. An accurate depth determination can only
be performed directly above the actual (highest) signal maximum.
If the receiver is operated in automatic sensitivity level adjustment mode, these lower
signal maxima are usually masked-out

HT-5000
EN - 14
4.2.3 Initial use of the transmitter TX5000
Follow the steps listed below in order to prepare the transmitter to search for lines in
conjunction with the receiver:
Step Action
1
Connect the transmitter to the line to be located using the most
suitable method, or place the transmitter on the site to be searched
see paragraph 4.2.2
2 Press to switch on the transmitter
3
Select the desired output signal using the and function keys
(see paragraph 4.1.3)
A green LED indicates that the respective setting is active
Select the desired mode of operation using the button (see
paragraph 4.1.3)
4
Result:
In Direct mode, an LED next to the symbol indicates how
good the connection is to the connected line:
•Green blinking: good (low-resistance) connection
•Alternating red and green: sufficient connection
•Red blinking: poor/no (high-resistance) connection
5 As described in paragraph 4.3.1 use the RX5000 to locate metallic
conductors
C
MP

HT-5000
EN - 15
4.3 USE OF RECEIVER RX5000
4.3.1 Modes of operation for the receiver RX5000
If a TX5000 transmitter is not available, a site can also be probed by means of passive line
location.
The RX5000 receiver is capable of detecting radio signals in the frequency range between
15kHz to 23kHz as well as power signals in the frequency range between 50/60Hz.
The following pictures illustrate how each of the signals couple onto conductors buried in
the ground:
Fig. 10: Use of receiver RX5000
The two options explained above for passive location together with the options of active
location with a transmitter or a probe transmitting a signal with an appropriate frequency
result in the following modes of operation:
Symbol Mode of operation
RADIO
For locating cables which are carrying VLF reradiated radio signals
POWER GRID
For locating mains power supply cables, through which current with a
grid frequency is flowing
TRANSMITTER
For locating cables or pipes, onto which the signal from an active
transmitter is coupled. The figure indicates the currently selected
frequency which has to correspond to the frequency of the transmitter
TX5000

HT-5000
EN - 16
4.3.1.1 Regulating the sensitivity level to match the reception signal strength
Reception signal strength and sensitivity are shown in the following segments of the
display:
Item Mode of operation
1
Reception signal display bargraph
The strength of the reception signal is represented by this bargraph
scale. These are relative values which are based on the sensitivity
level set in the receiver
The triangles (▲▼) above and below the scale are a visual marker
for maximum values. They move towards the right as long as the
signal strength increases and continue in this direction until it either
levels off or decreases. The maximum marker remains in this position
for 3 seconds and thus provides the user with a helpful visual aid for
determining the maximum signal strength
2
Sensitivity display (gain level in %)
The sensitivity level set in the receiver (which coincides with the total
spectrum which the receiver is capable of processing) is represented
by this scale. The higher the level of sensitivity is set, the more
capable the receiver is of detecting weaker signals.
The numeric display above the bars shows the utilisation factor as a
percent
Should the scale for reception signal strength bargraph provide virtually no indication, or
the display is completely utilised, either a manual or automatic adjustment of the sensitivity
level has to be made.
¾To start an automatic sensitivity level adjustment, the
button has to be pressed
once. The sensitivity level of the receiver will be automatically adjusted so that the
strength of the signal currently being received will be optimally displayed (fill half of the
scale)
¾To start a manual sensitivity level adjustment, the button has to be pressed for
about 2 seconds. The following indicator will appear in the display:
¾Now the sensitivity of the receiver can be decreased by one percent by pressing the
button, or increased by one percent by pressing the button. This process can be
accelerated by holding down the respective button
¾To exit the manual sensitivity level adjustment menu, the button has to be pressed
for two seconds. By pressing the button only short, the depth measurement process will
begin
2
3
1
2
2
1
2

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EN - 17
4.3.1.2 Handling the receiver and locating the line
In order to be able to determine the position and orientation of a metallic conductor, the
following rules should be internalised and applied when locating lines.
As shown in Fig. 11 the receiver should always be held in front of the body in an upright
position and as close to the ground as possible. When the transmitter is brought directly
over a metallic conductor, the maximum signal strength will be measured. If the receiver is
moved away from the conductor towards the side and is not rotated while doing so, the
signal will drop off proportionately
Fig. 11: Handling the receiver RX5000
The alignment of the receiver in relation to the orientation of the conductor (the antenna
being the starting point of alignment) has the following effects on the reception signal
strength:
•Receiver in line with the conductor Ömaximum signal strength
•Receiver perpendicular to the conductor Öminimum signal strength
Fig. 12: Alignment of the receiver RX5000

HT-5000
EN - 18
4.3.1.3 Changing of the system settings
Proceed as follows to change the settings:
Step Action
1
Briefly press the button while continuing to hold down the key
until an audible signal is heard. The following image is display:
2
Now one of the following depth measurement processes may be
selected by pressing the key:
Select this symbol if you want to determine the depth of a
probe which has been pushed into a non-metallic pipe
Select this symbol if you want to determine the depth of a
line, the signal of an active transmitter is coupled onto
Now a unit of length used by the system may be selected by pressing
the key:
Feet (ft)
Metre (m)
3 Press the key to save the settings. The changes will remain in
effect even after the receiver is switched off and back on again
Proceed as follows to change the receiving frequency of operation modes with more than
one possible frequency:
Step Action
1
Briefly press the key while continuing to hold down the key until
an audible signal is heard. The selectable frequencies are now visible
in the display:
2 Use the and keys to switch between 50 and 60Hz. The active
setting is marked with a black background
3 Press the key to save the settings. The changes will remain in
effect even after the receiver is switched off and back on again
2
31
3
2
3
1
1

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EN - 19
4.3.2 General site surveying
A general site probing urgently needs to be conducted and there is inaccurate or no
information available as to the location and orientation of metallic conductors on a site
planned for construction (e.g. excavation work).
When a site is to be searched for unknown conductors, a systematic approach should be
taken. The following picture illustrates how to proceed:
Fig. 13: General site surveying
Carry out a passive survey in POWER GRID and RADIO modes using a grid search
pattern to cover the site and locate conductors in all directions
If the site will be surveyed with the aid of the TX5000 transmitter used on induction, the
position of the transmitter should be changed by at least one metre and 90° after the first
sweep of the site and the site should be probed again in the same manner. The minimum
spacing of 15m between the transmitter and receiver must always be maintained
Follow the steps below when probing a site for unknown metallic conductors:
Step Action
1
If the site will be searched with the aid of the TX5000 transmitter, it
needs to be configured as described in paragraph 4.2.3 before
proceeding
2 Press to switch on the receiver RX5000
3
Select the desired mode of operation by pressing the key (see
paragraph 4.3.1). The symbol for the currently selected mode of
operation is shown in the lower right-hand corner of the display
4
Pace off the site as previously described and make a grid search of
the site (see Fig. 13). Adjust the sensitivity of the receiver as needed
if the signal level is too strong / weak (see paragraph 4.3.1.1)
5 When a conductor is located, pinpoint the strongest signal (see
paragraph 4.3.1.2) and mark the location
3