RIDGID SeekTech ST-33Q+ User manual

Original Instructions – English – 1
WARNING!
Read this Operator’s Man-
ual carefully before using
this tool. Failure to under-
stand and follow the con-
tents of this manual may
result in electrical shock,
fire and/or serious injury.
ST-33QR
SeekTech
Serial
No.
Operator’s Manual
ST-33QR
SeekTech
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2 – English
Table of Contents
Introduction
Regulatory Statements ...............................................................................................................................................4
Safety Symbols...........................................................................................................................................................4
General Safety Rules
Work Area Safety........................................................................................................................................................5
Electrical Safety.......................................................................................................................................................... 5
Personal Safety ..........................................................................................................................................................5
Equipment Use and Care ...........................................................................................................................................6
Battery Use and Care .................................................................................................................................................6
Specific Safety Information
ST-33Q+ Safety ..........................................................................................................................................................7
Product Overview
Description .................................................................................................................................................................7
Specifications .............................................................................................................................................................8
Standard Equipment................................................................................................................................................... 8
Components ...............................................................................................................................................................8
Keypad Legend .......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Screen Icon Legend ...................................................................................................................................................9
Pre-Operation Inspection
Work Area and Equipment Set Up
Kick Stand Positioning .............................................................................................................................................. 11
Cable Lead Clips ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
High Voltage Indicator............................................................................................................................................... 11
High Temperature Warning ....................................................................................................................................... 11
Powering the ST-33Q+.............................................................................................................................................. 12
Operating Instructions
Bluetooth Connection ............................................................................................................................................... 13
Locate....................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Direct Connect Mode................................................................................................................................................ 19
High Output Mode ....................................................................................................................................................20
Inductive Clamp Mode..............................................................................................................................................20
Inductive Mode ......................................................................................................................................................... 21
Air-Coupling ..............................................................................................................................................................23
Helpful Hints ............................................................................................................................................................. 24
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English – 3
Customizing Settings
Auto-shutdown Setting..............................................................................................................................................24
Frequencies..............................................................................................................................................................24
Custom Frequencies.................................................................................................................................................25
Odometer..................................................................................................................................................................26
Reset to Factory Default ...........................................................................................................................................27
Software
Updating ST-33Q+ Software.....................................................................................................................................27
Maintenance
Cleaning ...................................................................................................................................................................28
Accessories ..............................................................................................................................................................28
Transport and Storage..............................................................................................................................................28
Service and Repair...................................................................................................................................................29
Disposal....................................................................................................................................................................29
Battery Disposal .......................................................................................................................................................30
Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................................................................31
Appendix: Frequencies Used by Other Manufacturers .................................................................................................
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4 – English
Safety Symbols
In this operator’s manual and on the product, safety sym-
bols and signal words are used to communicate import-
ant safety information. This section is provided to im-
prove understanding of these signal words and symbols.
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert
you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all
safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid
possible injury or death.
DANGER
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE
NOTICE indicates information that relates
to the protection of property.
This symbol means read the operator’s manual
carefully before using the equipment. The oper-
ator’s manual contains important information on
the safe and proper operation of the equipment.
This symbol means always wear safety glasses
with side shields or goggles when handling or
using this equipment to reduce the risk of eye in-
jury.
This symbol indicates the risk of electrical shock.
Introduction
The warnings, cautions, and instructions dis-
cussed in this operator’s manual cannot cover
all possible conditions and situations which
may occur. It must be understood by the opera-
tor that common sense and caution are factors
that cannot be built into this product, but must
be supplied by the operator.
Regulatory Statements
The EC Declaration of Conformity (890-011-
320.10) will accompany this manual as a sepa-
rate booklet when required.
This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules.
Operation is subject to the following two condi-
tions: (1) This device may not cause harmful in-
terference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
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English – 5
General Safety Rules
WARNING
Read all safety warnings and instructions. Failure to
follow the warnings and instructions may result in
electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Work Area Safety
• Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or
dark areas invite accidents.
• Do not operate equipment in explosive atmo-
spheres, such as in the presence of flammable liq-
uids, gases, or dust. Equipment can create sparks
which may ignite the dust or fumes.
• Keep children and bystanders away while operat-
ing equipment. Distractions can cause you to lose
control.
Electrical Safety
• Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded sur-
faces such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrig-
erators. There is an increased risk of electrical shock
if your body is earthed or grounded.
• An improperly grounded electrical outlet can
cause electrical shock and/or severely damage
equipment. Always check work area for a properly
grounded electrical outlet. Presence of a three-prong
or GFCI outlet does not ensure that the outlet is prop-
erly grounded. If in doubt, have the outlet inspected by
a licensed electrician.
• Do not expose equipment to rain or wet condi-
tions. Water entering equipment will increase the risk
of electrical shock.
• Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for car-
rying, pulling, or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord
away from heat, oil, sharp edges, and moving parts.
Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of elec-
tric shock.
• If operating equipment in a damp location is un-
avoidable, use a ground fault circuit interrupter
(GFCI) protected supply. Use of a GFCI reduces the
risk of electric shock.
• Keep all electrical connections dry and off the
ground. Do not touch equipment or plugs with wet
hands to reduce the risk of electrical shock.
Personal Safety
• Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and use com-
mon sense when operating equipment. Do not use
equipment while you are tired or under the influence of
drugs, alcohol, or medication. A moment of inattention
while operating equipment may result in serious per-
sonal injury.
• Use personal protective equipment. The appropri-
ate use of protective equipment such as safety glass-
es, a dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, a hard hat,
high visibility clothing, and hearing protection will re-
duce personal injuries.
• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times. This enables better control of the equip-
ment in unexpected situations.
• Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry.
Keep your hair, clothing, and gloves away from mov-
ing parts. Loose clothes, jewelry, and long hair can be
caught in moving parts.
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6 – English
Equipment Use and Care
• Do not force equipment. Use the correct equipment
for your application. The correct equipment will do the
job better and safer at the rate for which it is designed.
• Do not use equipment if the power switch does not
turn it on and off. Any equipment that cannot be con-
trolled with the power switch is dangerous and must
be repaired.
• Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or
the battery pack from the equipment before mak-
ing adjustments, changing accessories, or storing.
Preventive safety measures reduce the risk of injury.
• Store idle equipment out of the reach of children
and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the equip-
ment or these instructions to operate the equip-
ment. Equipment can be dangerous in the hands of
untrained users.
• Maintain equipment. Check for misalignment or bind-
ing of moving parts, missing parts, breakage of parts,
and any other condition that may affect the equip-
ment’s operation. If damaged, have the equipment
repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by
poorly maintained equipment.
• Use the equipment and accessories in accordance
with these instructions; taking into account the
working conditions and the work to be performed.
Use of the equipment for operations different from
those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
• Use only accessories that are recommended by
the manufacturer for your equipment. Accessories
that may be suitable for one piece of equipment may
become hazardous when used with other equipment.
• Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and
grease. This allows for better control of the equipment.
Battery Use and Care
• Use equipment only with specifically designated
battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may
create a risk of injury and fire.
• Recharge only with the charger specified by the
manufacturer. A charger suitable for one type of bat-
tery pack may create a risk of fire when used with an-
other battery pack.
• Do not probe battery with conductive objects.
Shorting of battery terminals may cause sparks, burns,
or electrical shock.When the battery pack is not in use,
keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips,
coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects
that can make a connection from one terminal to an-
other. Shorting the battery terminals together may
cause burns or a fire.
• Under abusive conditions, liquid may eject from
battery; avoid contact. If contact occurs, flush with
water. If liquid contacts eyes, seek medical help. Liquid
ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
• Do not cover charger while in use. Proper ventila-
tion is required for correct operation. Covering charger
in use could result in fire.
• Use and store batteries and chargers in dry, appro-
priate temperature areas. Extreme temperatures and
moisture can damage batteries and result in leakage,
electrical shock, fire or burns.
• Properly dispose of batteries. Exposure to high tem-
peratures can cause the batteries to explode; do not
dispose of in a fire. Some countries have regulations
concerning battery disposal. Follow all applicable reg-
ulations.
• See the Battery and Battery Charger Operator’s
Manual for additional information.
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English – 7
Specic Safety Information
WARNING
This section contains important safety information
that is specific to the ST-33Q+. Read these precau-
tions carefully before using the ST-33Q+ to reduce
the risk of electrical shock, fire, or other serious in-
jury.
SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!
ST-33Q+ Safety
• Read and understand this operator’s manual, and
the instructions for any other equipment in use
and all warnings before operating the ST-33Q+.
Failure to follow all instructions and warnings may re-
sult in property damage and/or serious personal inju-
ry. Keep this manual with the equipment for future use.
• Operating the equipment while in water increas-
es the risk of electrical shock. Do not operate the
ST-33Q+ if the operator or equipment are standing in
water.
• The ST-33Q+ is not designed to provide high volt-
age protection and isolation. Do not use where a
danger of high voltage contact is present.
• Always attach leads before turning the ST-33Q+ on
and always power off the ST-33Q+ before discon-
necting the leads to reduce the risk of electrical
shock.
• Follow local guidelines and call before digging. Lo-
cating equipment uses electromagnetic fields that can
be distorted and interfered with. More than one utility
may be present in a given area. Follow local guide-
lines and service procedures. Confirm location of utili-
ties before digging.
Product Overview
Description
The ST-33Q+ is a powerful, multi-frequency trans-
mitter which can be used in conjunction with a
RIDGID-SeekTech receiver to find buried conductors
such as pipes, cables, and wires. Connect the ST-33Q+
to a RIDGID-SeekTech SR-24 using Bluetooth®to re-
motely control the transmitter and view changes from the
receiver. Cut the time it takes to locate facilities by sync-
ing the ST-33Q+ with the SR-24 and removing the need
to walk back and forth between devices.
The ST-33Q+ can apply an active tracing signal to target
a conductor using the following three modes:
Direct Connect — The leads on the ST-33Q+ con-
nect directly to the target conductor and a suitable
ground.
Inductive Clamp — The optional inductive clamp
encircles the target conductor which eliminates
metal-to-metal contact.
Inductive — The ST-33Q+ is placed over an in-line
conductor. The internal antenna will induce a signal
to locate the target conductor.
In addition to a series of default frequencies, the ST-
33Q+ can also accept custom frequency settings up to
490 kHz.
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8 – English
Specifications
Weight without batteries 5 kg [11 lb]
Dimensions
Depth 202 mm [8 in]
Width 432 mm [17 in]
Height 421 mm [16.6 in]
Coil cable length 0.4 m – 7.6 m
[1.4 ft – 25 ft]
Output power
18 V Li-Ion battery/
External power adapter 10 W
6 D-cell batteries 5 W
Power settings
Internal batteries 25 mA – 400 mA
18V Li-Ion battery/
External power adapter ≤ 1,000 mA
Default frequencies 128 Hz, 1 kHz, 8 kHz,
33 kHz, 93 kHz, 262 kHz
Bluetooth
Type Class 1
Profile RFCOMM
Transmit power 19 dBm
Receiver sensitivity -92 dBm
Operating range Up to 800 m
[2,725 ft]
Ingress protection IP 54
Storage temperature -10°C – 70°C
[14°F – 158°F]
Standard Equipment
• ST-33Q+
• Operator’s manual
• DVD
Components
Grounding Stake
Lead Clip
Coil Cord
Internal Battery
Compartments (D-Cell)
Display Screen
Keypad
External Power Jack
Inductive Clamp Jack
Kick Stand
Lead Clip
Serial Number Label
Battery Dock
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English – 9
Keypad Legend
Key Name Function
Inductive
Mode Key
Toggle between Inductive
Mode and Direct Connect
Mode.
Up Arrow Key Move up or increase.
Select Key Activate a frequency or select
highlighted menu choices.
Down Arrow
Key Move down or decrease.
Menu Key
Access the Main Menu.
Moves back one level within
submenus.
Frequency
Key/Left Arrow
Key
Step through the list of active
frequencies in the current
mode. Long press displays a
scrollable list of frequencies.
Also acts as the Left Arrow
key within menus.
Power Key/
Right Arrow
Key
Power the ST-33Q+ on and
off. Also acts as the Right
Arrow key within menus.
Screen Icon Legend
Icon Definition
Available Frequencies
Frequency not available, in use, or
locked
Sub Menus
Tools Menu
LCD Screen Brightness Adjustment
Audio on/off
Auto Shutdown Setting
Add Frequencies to Main Menu
Set Custom Frequencies
Standard Power Mode for Li-Ion
18 V and 10-28 VDC power adapter
Default, Low Output Power Mode
for NiMH batteries
High Output Power Mode for NiMH
batteries
Max Power Mode for alkaline D-cell
batteries
Information Screen
Factory Reset
Delete Custom Frequencies
Odometer
Full Battery
Partial Battery
Low Battery
18 V battery is dead, operating on
internal batteries
The ST-33Q+ is connected to and
paired with a Bluetooth enabled
device
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10 – English
Pre-Operation Inspection
WARNING
Before each use, inspect the ST-33Q+ and correct
any problems to reduce the risk of serious injury
from electrical shock, fire, and other causes and to
prevent damage to the ST-33Q+.
1. Confirm that the power is off, that any external
power and cords are disconnected, and that all bat-
teries are removed. Inspect the cords, cables, and
connectors for damage or modification.
2. Clean any dirt, oil, or other contamination from the
ST-33Q+ to aid in inspection and to prevent the unit
from slipping from your grip during transport or use.
3. Inspect the ST-33Q+ for any broken, worn, missing,
misaligned or binding parts, or any other condition
which might prevent safe, normal operation.
4. Inspect any other equipment being used according
to its instructions to make sure it is in good, usable
condition.
5. If any problems are found, do not use the equip-
ment until the problems are corrected.
Work Area and Equipment Set Up
WARNING
Set up the ST-33Q+ and work area in accordance
with these procedures to reduce the risk of serious
injury from electrical shock, fire, and other causes
and to prevent damage to the ST-33Q+.
1. Check work area for the following:
• Adequate lighting.
• Flammable liquids, vapors, or dust that may ig-
nite. If present, do not work in area until sources
have been identified and corrected. Equipment
can create sparks which may ignite the dust or
fumes.
• Clear, level, stable dry place for operator to
work. Do not use the equipment while standing
in water.
• Clear path to electrical outlet that does not con-
tain any potential sources of damage for the
power cord when using external power.
2. Assess the target line to determine the best way to
apply the signal. The line must be metal (conduc-
tive) in order to have a signal applied to it using the
ST-33Q+. If using the transmitter on insulated con-
ductors, ground the target conductor at each end to
ensure that the signal will be strong enough to lo-
cate.
The ST-33Q+ is not designed to provide high volt-
age insulation or protection. Do not use where a
danger of high voltage contact is present.
3. Determine the correct equipment for the applica-
tion.
4. Make sure all equipment has been properly inspect-
ed.
5. Evaluate the work area and determine if any barri-
ers are needed to keep bystanders away. Bystand-
ers can distract the operator during use. If working
near traffic, erect cones or other barriers to alert
drivers.
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English – 11
Kick Stand Positioning
The kick stand on the ST-33Q+ gives you control over the
angle of the unit. Use the kick stand to improve screen
visibility and access to the keypad.
Cable Lead Clips
The ST-33Q+ features cable lead clips that can be at-
tached mechanically or magnetically. Before connecting
the leads, use the teeth on the clip to scrape off rust or
paint. When the metal is exposed you can either clip onto
the target with the teeth or use the magnet to make the
connection.
NOTICE
The cable lead clips contain strong mag-
nets. Do not place the clips near data
storage devices, credit cards, or other
magnetically encoded data.
High Voltage Indicator
WARNING
The ST-33Q+ is designed to withstand up to 240 VAC
between the two leads. This protection is not intend-
ed to be used continuously and excess current may
be forced through the ST-33Q+. To reduce the risk of
electrical shock, do not touch the transmitter, cords,
or connections during this time. Use high voltage
precautions to disconnect the ST-33Q+.
If the ST-33Q+ senses excess current, a warning mes-
sage appears on the screen, a warning beep sounds,
and the High Voltage LED below the keypad is lit.
High Temperature Warning
If the internal temperature of the ST-33Q+ reaches 75°C
[167°F] an alert displays on the screen and signal out-
put is automatically reduced. If the internal temperature
reaches 80°C [176°F], signal output is immediately sus-
pended. Power off the ST-33Q+ to avoid damage and in-
jury and contact a RIDGID Independent Authorized Ser-
vice Center before using the ST-33Q+ again.
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12 – English
Powering the ST-33Q+
WARNING
Disconnect external leads from any energized utility
before opening the battery compartment. To prevent
overheating and leakage, do not mix battery types or
used and new batteries. Always remove the batteries
before shipping or storing the ST-33Q+.
The ST-33Q+ can be powered by a Li-Ion 18 V re-
chargeable battery, six D-cell batteries, or an external
10-28VDC power source.
An 18 V rechargeable battery can be used simultaneous-
ly with the internal alkaline or NiMH D-cell batteries. Do
not mix battery types or brands, and do not combine new
and used batteries.
Li-Ion 18V Rechargeable Battery
The ST-33Q+ can be powered from one Li-Ion 18V re-
chargeable battery as long as the voltage remains above
14.4V. If the voltage falls below 14.4V or if the battery
dies, the ST-33Q+ will switch to internal batteries and
display an alert.
D-Cell Battery Power
New alkaline D-cell batteries, with a load of 100 Ω at a
frequency of 8 kHz and a power level of 100 mA, can
power the ST-33Q+ for approximately 17.5 hours. Actual
operation life varies with battery rating and use.
Install alkaline or NiMH D-cell batteries in the ST-33Q+
by following these steps:
1. Twist battery compartment caps counterclockwise.
2. Insert three batteries into each battery compart-
ment. Ensure the positive end of each battery points
outward.
3. Replace the caps and twist clockwise to tighten.
Note: Rechargeable D-cell batteries do not recharge in
the ST-33Q+.
External Power
The ST-33Q+ can also be powered by an external
10-28VDC no less than 35W.
Read and follow the instructions as specified by the man-
ufacturer of the adapter before using it with the ST-33Q+.
To prevent electrical shock and damage, ensure the ex-
ternal power source is fully isolated from the ground and
power mains. Do not use a non-isolated power supply
with the ST-33Q+.
When a 10-28 VDC power source is connected, use of
the alkaline D batteries and the 18 V rechargeable battery
is discontinued and the unit draws from the 10-28 VDC
power source. The ST-33Q+ automatically powers off
when a 10-28VDC power source is plugged in.
Ensure the adapter cord has a clear, dry path and does
not contain any potential source of damage. Use dry
hands to plug and unplug the cord.
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English – 13
Operating Instructions
WARNING
Wear eye protection when appropriate to protect
your eyes against dirt and other foreign objects. Fol-
low operating instructions to reduce the risk of inju-
ry from electrical shock and other causes.
The default frequencies that come with the ST-33Q+ are:
• 128 Hz
• 1 kHz [1,024 Hz]
• 8 kHz [8,192 Hz]
• 33 kHz [32,768 Hz]
• 93 kHz [93,623 Hz]
• 262 kHz [262,144 Hz]
Exclude default frequencies from the active frequency
list and add your own custom frequencies in the Tools
Menu. Frequency lists are context sensitive so that each
mode can have a separate list of active frequencies. To
learn more, see the Customizing section of this Opera-
tor’s Manual.
Bluetooth Connection
Bluetooth®connectivity with a SeekTech SR-24 receiv-
er or other Bluetooth enabled SeekTech receiver allows
users to remotely set frequencies, output power, turn the
ST-33Q+ on and off, or know if the ST-33Q+ has turned
off unexpectedly.
With Bluetooth®enabled on the ST-33Q+, the SR-24 can
be used to view and control the ST-33Q+’s screen, elim-
inating the need to walk back and forth between your
transmitter and the area being traced.
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14 – English
Range
The ST-33Q+ and SR-24 work best when kept with-
in 200 m [656 ft] of each other while connected by
Bluetooth. The quality of the connection between devic-
es may be affected by a number of factors including dis-
tance between devices and objects in the path between
devices. For the best quality connection, maintain a clear
line of sight between devices and set the transmitter so
its battery faces the receiver. Objects blocking the line of
sight between the transmitter and the receiver may sig-
nificantly reduce the quality of their connection.
Bluetooth Connection
Connecting the Devices
To connect the devices, follow these steps:
4. Power on the receiver and press the Menu key .
5. Press the Down Arrow key to scroll through the
frequencies list. Highlight the Bluetooth icon and
press the Select key .
6. Press the Select key when the search icon
appears.
7. Press the Down Arrow key to highlight the trans-
mitter you want to connect to. Press the Select key
.
You can identify your transmitter by its name and the last
four digits of its serial number. The transmitter does not
need to be powered on to be discoverable.
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English – 15
Once a connection is made, the transmitter automatically
powers on. When connected, the Bluetooth icon is vis-
ible on both the transmitter’s and the receiver’s screens.
On the transmitter, a chain link image confirms that the
two units are connected.
If the receiver has been paired with multiple transmitters,
it automatically goes through the list and tries to connect
to each one until it is successful.
Note:The receiver can remember up to 16 devices it has
been paired with.For more information on connecting to
other devices, refer to the SR-24 manual.
Disconnecting the Devices
The two devices remain connected until manually discon-
nected. To disconnect the devices, follow these steps:
1. Make sure both the transmitter and receiver are
powered on. On the receiver, press the Menu key
.
2. Press the Down Arrow key to navigate to and
highlight the Bluetooth icon .
3. Press the Select key . The disconnect icon
displays when the devices have suc-
cessfully disconnected.
On the transmitter, an image of a broken chain link con-
firms that the two units are disconnected.
On the receiver, a warning alert displays.
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16 – English
Powering the Transmitter
When the two units are connected with Bluetooth, pow-
ering the receiver on or off automatically powers the
transmitter on or off.
The receiver alerts you to changes in the transmitter’s
power status.
Switching to internal
batteries.
Powered off due to
Power key press.
Powered off due to
low battery.
Setting the Frequency
Changing the receiver’s frequency automatically updates
the transmitter’s frequency to match. If the frequency is
changed on the transmitter, the receiver automatically
updates to match as well.
Transmitter Control Screen
When the devices are connected, you can see the trans-
mitter’s screen from the receiver. The transmitter control
screen allows you to control the transmitter’s frequen-
cy mode, choose between direct connect or inductive
mode, and adjust output power remotely. You can also
remotely power the transmitter on or off and know if the
transmitter has powered off unexpectedly.
Any changes made on the transmitter to frequency, di-
rect connect or inductive mode, and output power can be
seen on the receiver.
To open the transmitter control screen on the receiver,
press the Menu key , then press the Right Arrow key
to toggle in and out of the transmitter’s control screen.
If more than one Bluetooth enabled SeekTech trans-
mitter is present, press the Left Arrow key to cycle
through available transmitters. Press the serial number
listed below the transmitter icon to identify the specific
transmitter you want to control.
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English – 17
Direct Connect Mode and Inductive Mode
To remotely set the transmitter to direct connect mode or
inductive mode using the receiver, open the transmitter
control screen. Press the Select key to toggle between
direct connect mode and inductive mode.
Clamp Mode
The receiver can see the transmitter’s clamp mode but
cannot turn the transmitter’s clamp mode on or off. An in-
ductive clampmust be connected to access clamp mode.
Refer to the operator’s manual for your transmitter and
inductive clamp for more information on using inductive
clamp mode.
Output Power
Higher output settings produce a stronger signal for the
receiver, but reduces battery life for the transmitter. Only
use 1,000 mA High Output Mode if using an 18 V Li-
Ion rechargeable battery, external power, or high capaci-
ty NiMH D-cell batteries. Do not use the ST-33Q+ in high
output mode with standard alkaline batteries.
You can read the transmitter’s output power or change it
remotely from the receiver. To remotely change the trans-
mitter’s output power using the receiver, open the trans-
mitter control screen. Press the receiver’s Up and Down
Arrow keys to adjust the output power.
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18 – English
Locate
Note: When the ST-33Q+ is powered on and in Direct
Connect Mode, only hold the cable leads by the plas-
tic sheathing. Do not touch the metal scraper tip, teeth,
or magnet.
1. With one cable lead attached to the ground stake
and the other attached to the target conductor,
press the Power key to power on the ST-33Q+.
Upon start up, the ST-33Q+ measures the current
flowing through the target conductor and beeps to
indicate output. Faster beeps indicate a higher out-
put current.
2. Select a frequency by pressing the Frequency key
until the desired frequency appears or press-
ing and holding the Frequency key to show a list
of available frequencies. Press the Up and Down
Arrow keys to move through the list. When the
desired frequency is highlighted, press the Select
key to activate it.
Note: In addition to the default frequencies, the ST-
33Q+ can also accept custom frequency settings
up to 490 kHz. See the section on adding custom
frequencies in this Operator’s Manual for more de-
tails.
3. Follow the instructions in the receiver’s Operator’s
Manual to power on and use the receiver. Ensure
the frequency on the receiver matches the ST-33Q+.
If the receiver signal increases when held near the
ST-33Q+, it is correctly picking up the transmitted
frequency.
4. Adjust the current as needed during the locate by
pressing the Up and Down Arrow keys on the
ST-33Q+. In Direct Connect Mode, the ST-33Q+ in-
creases the current as close to the following levels
as possible:
• 25 mA
• 50 mA
• 100 mA (default)
• 200 mA
• 400 mA
5. After completing the locate, press the Power key
to power off the ST-33Q+.
Note: To reduce the risk of electrical shock, power
off the ST-33Q+ before disconnecting the leads
and remove the lead from the target conductor be-
fore removing the lead from the ground stake.
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English – 19
Direct Connect Mode
Direct Connect Mode is most commonly used when the
target utility is readily accessible. Do not use Direct Con-
nect Mode on energized (live) conductors. The ST-33Q+
is not designed to connect to live conductors.
1. Choose connection locations for the ground stake
and the target conductor. Place the ST-33Q+, pow-
ered off, on the ground between these two loca-
tions.
Note: The ST-33Q+ leads extend up to 7.6 m [25
ft]. The further the leads are extended, the more
incidental the signal, and the further the receiver
should be used from the transmitter to avoid con-
fusing the signals with the cable leads. If perform-
ing a locate near the transmitter, keep the leads as
short as possible and store excess lead cable in
the side pockets of the ST-33Q+.
2. Insert the ground stake into the earth as far as pos-
sible. Wet the earth around the ground stake to im-
prove grounding and to lower the resistance of the
ground. With the ST-33Q+ still powered off, attach
the lead clip to the ground stake.
Instead of using the provided grounding stake, the lead
clip can be attached to other objects such as a shov-
el blade or a metal rod sunk into the earth. Using larger
grounding objects may improve grounding by increasing
the surface area in contact with the earth.
Note: Always connect the lead to the ground stake
before connecting another lead to the target line to
direct any current within the target conductor away
from the user.
3. At the target conductor, scrape away any dirt, paint,
corrosion, or other coatings and attach the other
cable lead clip with either the teeth or the magnet.
Good contact between the cable lead and the target con-
ductor lowers the resistance of the circuit and produces a
stronger tracing signal.
Note: Non-conductive pipes, such as those made
of clay or plastic, cannot carry a tracing current
without a trace wire. Plastic pipes typically have a
trace wire installed with the pipe for tracing pur-
poses. Clip the cable lead to the trace wire to en-
able tracing.
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20 – English
High Output Mode
Higher output settings produce a stronger signal for the
receiver, but reduces battery life. Only use 1,000 mA
High Output Mode if using an 18V Li-Ion rechargeable
battery, external power, or high capacity NiMH D-cell bat-
teries. Do not use the ST-33Q+ in high output mode with
standard alkaline batteries.
Under normal operating conditions, the output in Direct
Connect Mode is limited to 400 mA to extend battery life.
The current can be adjusted to operate the ST-33Q+ in
high output mode by using the Up and Down Arrow keys
to toggle between and .
In Direct Connect Mode the ST-33Q+ displays a current
indicator bar. Hollow boxes represent selected output
current. Solid boxes represent actual output current lev-
els.
If the display screen shows “Lo,” the circuit is open or
the unit is unable to draw adequate current for locating.
Check your connections and improve the circuit to accu-
rately locate.
Inductive Clamp Mode
Read the Operator’s Manual for the Inductive Clamp be-
fore using it with the ST-33Q+. It includes important safe-
ty information and operating instructions.
Use the ST-33Q+ with an inductive clamp by following
these steps:
1. Before connecting the inductive clamp, confirm
that the target conductor is not live and that the ST-
33Q+ is powered off. The ST-33Q+ is not designed
to be connected to live conductors.
2. Insert the inductive clamp plug into the jack on the
ST-33Q+ below the keypad.
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