Rycom Pathfinder pls series User manual

Manual Part # 030-00113-00

User Manual

Pathﬁnder Precision Locating System

1.816.353.2100 www.rycominstruments.com

No part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted, without the prior written

consent of the RYCOM Instruments, Inc.

Please feel free to contact RYCOM Instruments, Inc. to request permission for reproduction and use

of this manual for training purposes.

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General InformatIon

Introduction ...............................................2

Disclaimer of Liability ........................................2

Important Notices ..........................................2

Compliance ..............................................3

Prepare for Use.............................................4

Programming Frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Transmitter Controls and Indicators ............................6

Direct Connect ............................................7

Flexi-Coupler Connection....................................7

Inductive Connection .......................................8

Blind Search ...............................................8

Selecting the Tracing Signal ..................................9

Receiver Controls and Indicators ............................10

PathLink Controls ..........................................11

Locating the Cable or Pipe .................................12

Selecting the Locating Mode ...............................12

Peak Locating Mode.......................................12

Null Locating Mode ........................................13

Left/Right Auto-Gain Mode .................................14

Absolute Signal Strength ....................................14

Gain Change Indication....................................14

Passive 50/60 Hz Locating...................................15

Passive Radio Frequency Locating ...........................15

Passive Rectifier CP Locating ................................15

Push Button Depth .........................................16

Depth Measurement 45 Degree Angle Method ................17

Current Measurement ......................................17

Tilted Magnetic Field Identification ...........................18

Locating a Sonde .......................................19-20

Sonde Depth Measurement.................................20

STAFF Fault Finder Controls ..................................22

Fault Locating...........................................23-25

PATHFINDER PLS Transmitter Specifications.....................26

PATHFINDER PLS Receiver Specifications ......................27

Factory Service............................................28

Warranty .................................................28

Parts List ..................................................29

table of Contents

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introduCtion

Congratulations on the purchase of your new RYCOM PATHFINDER PLS Series Cable, Pipe & Fault

Locator. The PATHFINDER PLS Locator is specially designed to detect conductors such as buried pipes

& cables. This device may detect buried power cables, CATV cables, gas and water pipes, sewer

lines, telecommunication lines, fiber optic cables with sheath, sondes, inspection camera transmitters.

You have chosen a quality product that is designed for years of field use without the need for annual

or periodic calibration and service.

The basic principle of the locator's operation is as follows:

The TransmiTTer emits a signal to a conductive cable or pipe. The receiver detects the

electromagnetic field that is generated by the transmitted signal. You can locate the relative

position of the buried utility by following the tracing signal.

For safely & to help ensure the best locating results, please read & understand the manual in its

entirety before using the product.

RYCOM Instruments, INC shall not be liable to Distributor, Reseller, or any other person for any

incidental, indirect, special, exemplary or consequential damages, or injury of any type whatsoever,

and caused directly or indirectly by Products sold or supplied by RYCOM INSTRUMENTS, INC.

disClaimer ofliability

important notiCes

Failure to follow these warning could result in serious injury or death.

Only persons qualied and trained to operate cable & pipe locators may operate this equipment.

Follow appropriate safety procedure, your companies policies and applicable safety codes and/or

laws.

Do not connect to utilities, cables or pipes without authorization and training.

Use tool only for intended purpose as described in this manual

Do not expose tool to rain or moisture.

Do not expose to hazardous chemicals, hazardous gas or explosive environment.

SHOCK HAZARD - Lethal voltages may be present at the transmitter's output. Turn off transmitter before

touching test lead or any un-insulated conductor. Make connection to ground and target conductor

before turning on transmitter.

SHOCK HAZARD - Do not connect to live voltage or active utility lines. De-energize any circuits in or

around the work area.

This tool is designed to detect electromagnetic eld emitted from cables and buried metallic utilities.

There are buried cables, pipes, and utilities this instrument CANNOT detect.

LOCATING is not an exact science. The only certain way to be sure of the existence, location, or depth

of buried utilities is to carefully expose (dig up) the utility.

WARNING!

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This equipment complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) The equipment may not cause harmful interference.

(2) The equipment must accept any interference received, including interference that may

cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,

pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection

against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This

equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in

accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.

Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case

the user will be required to correct the interference at this own expense.

Modifications: Any modifications made to this equipment not approved by RYCOM Instruments, inc.

may void the authority granted to the user by the FCC to operate this equipment.

CAN ICES-3(A) Class A Notice:

This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Avis NMB-003, Classe A:

Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada

ComplianCe

fCC ComplianCe statement

industry Canada ComplianCe statements

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prepare for use

Unpack your new PATHFINDER PLS Locator . Make sure there is no shipping damage and all the parts

are included.

Locate the battery compartment on the back of the of the receiver and on the bottom of the

TransmiTTer.Open the compartments using a Phillips screwdriver. If your unit is a rechargeable system,

remove the terminal isolation paper to allow the battery spring to contact the battery terminal.

If the unit is configured for alkaline batteries, Install the six alkaline Duracell®“C” batteries as marked

in the receiver and twelve Duracell®“D” batteries as marked in the TransmiTTer.

For rechargeable units, please charge for at least 5 hours before use. Remove the terminal isolation

paper inside the battery compartments to allow the battery spring to contact the battery terminal.

Note: For longer battery life and reliable operation under adverse conditions, use only Duracell®

alkaline batteries.

Note: The battery type used must be selected in the programming menu of the transmitter and the

receiver. For instructions on how to select please see page 4.

By registering your unit online at http://www.rycominstruments.com/extended.html within one month

(30 Days) of purchase RYCOM will extend the warranty period from one year to 4 years.

This instrument is under warranty for one year from the date of delivery against defects in material

and workmanship (EXCEPT BATTERIES). We will repair or replace products that prove to be defective

during warranty period.

This warranty is void if, after having received the instrument in good condition, it is subjected to abuse,

unauthorized alterations or casual repair.

No other warranty is expressed or implied. The warranty described in this paragraph shall be in lieu of

any other warranty, including but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for

a particular purpose. We are not liable for consequential damages.

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Vol

voL 1

vol 2

vol 3

vol oFF

Light

oFF /on

Units

Metric

oFF /on

Orient

oFF /on

dePth

depth

oFF /on

Curnt

oFF /on

Ac Sory

oFF /on

Vibrtn

oFF /on

To select the desired frequency set for software versions 3.43 and greater:

• Press and hold depressed the Power onBuTTon.

• Pressing the informaTion BuTTon will toggle through available configurations. Repeat pressing

until 'u5' is displayed in the frequency indicaTor section of the LCD.

• Release the Power onBuTTon.'Pro'will be displayed on the LCD.

• Press the frequency BuTTon to toggle through the available frequencies.

• To select and store the desired frequency press the informaTion BuTTon. The count of the

selected frequency will be displayed on the LCD.

• Continue to toggle through and select the desired frequencies,

• Press the Power onBuTTon to shut the unit off. This will save the selected frequencies for

availability during normal operation.

The PATHFINDER PLS operating modes, frequencies and other functions are user programmable and can

be changed at anytime through a quick selection process in the programming menu.

To select the programming options for software versions up to 3.42:

• With the unit on, press and hold depressed the ProGram menu (Power on) button for 5 seconds. Once

released "Pro"'will be displayed at the top of the LCD.

• To scroll through the programming menu headings, use the uPor Down arrow (GaIn uP/GaIn Down)

buttons.

• To enter a selection's sub-menu use the arrow rIGht (ShIft/loG/DePth) key.

• To exit a selection's sub-menu use the arrow left (frequency) key.

• To scroll through sub-menu options use the arrow uPor arrow Down (GaIn uP/GaIn Down) key.

• To select an item or to toggle between item options, press the Select (moDe)key.

• Pressing the ProGram menu (Power on)button at any time will save the selected options for availability

during normal operation and exit the programming menu.

Changing preset funCtions, modes & frequenCies

reCeiver

transmitter

P-Link

oFF /on

dFF

oFF /on

batt

L,-,on / A1ka

OpMode

W-Pk

oFF /on

W-Pk ><

oFF /on

P-Pk

oFF /on

P-Pk ><

oFF /on

Null

oFF /on

Null ><

oFF /on

Pro

Sonde

512 hz

oFF /on

640 hz

oFF /on

815 hz

oFF /on

1.01 hz

oFF /on

4.10 hz

oFF /on

8 khz

oFF /on

33 khz

oFF /on

116 khz

oFF /on

Line

oFF /on

PWR-50

oFF /on

50Phz

oFF /on

150Phz

oFF /on

250Phz

oFF /on

350Phz

oFF /on

450Phz

oFF /on

CP5

oFF /on

PWR-60

oFF /on

60Phz

oFF /on

180Phz

oFF /on

300Phz

oFF /on

420pHz hz

oFF /on

540Phz hz

oFF /on

CP6

oFF /on

200 hz

oFF /on

256 hz

oFF /on

273 hz

oFF /on

512 hz

oFF /on

570 hz

oFF /on

577 hz

oFF /on

640 hz

oFF /on

760 hz

oFF /on

797 hz

oFF /on

815 hz

oFF /on

833 hz

oFF /on

870 hz hz

oFF /on

920 hz hz

oFF /on

940 hz

oFF /on

1.01 khz

oFF /on

1.02 khz

oFF /on

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815 Hz

82 kHz

8 kHz

TX OUTPUT

I / O

FOR INDUCTIVE MODE

PLACE ARROWS ALONG CABLE PATH

8878

I / O

I82 kHz

8 kHz

815 Hz

TX OUTPUT JACK

The red/Black cord, Coupler and flexicouPler connects here to create a circuit on the buried utility.

FREQUENCY SELECTOR

This button toggles through the available frequencies. The selected frequency is displayed on the

LCD. When dual frequency transmission options are selected, indicated by the D1 & D2 icons to the

right large numeric segments, the frequencies will flash from one to another.

LOAD INDICATOR (visual & audible)

The Load Indicator symbol flashes to indicate signal output.

The quick triple beep audible tone indicates the circuit is open and no signal is being transmitted.

A steady continuous beep indicates a closed circuit and signal is transmitted . When the indicator

blinks 4 times per second, it is indicating a nearly short circuit. When the indicator blinks 1 time every

10 seconds, it is indicating a nearly open circuit.

OUTPUT SIGNAL LEVEL CONTROL

The OUTPUT SIGNAL LEVEL CONTROL adjusts the power output from the TransmiTTer. There are 5

selections on the standard power setting and 5 selections on the HPO setting. The standard power

output maximum is 30volts. In the HPO setting the maximum voltage is 200volts. Holding down the

Output Signal Level button for 3 Seconds will activate the High Power Output mode.

High Power Output is a SHOCK HAZARD - Lethal voltages at the transmitter's output. Turn off transmitter

before touching test lead or any un-insulated conductor. Make connection to ground and target

conductor before turning on transmitter.

SIGNAL INFORMATION SELECTOR

The unit can display the relative resistance, current and voltage of the transmitted signal. The

resistance is based on the feed back from the selected frequency and is not an actual impedance

meter. The selections can be toggled by pressing the SIGNAL INFORMATION button.

Power On & Off

Tx Output Jack

Frequency

Selector

Battery Condition

Indicator

Load Rate

Indicators

Output Signal

Level Control

Relative

Resistance, Volt,

Current

CAUTION

Lethal Voltages May Be Present

Signal Information

Selector

transmitter Controls & indiCators

Output Level

Indicator

High Power

Output

Indicator

WARNING!

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direCt ConneCtion

Direct Connection is the most reliable method of signal application. This method is relatively free

of interference. The greatest amount of signal strength can be achieved by this method. Low,

mid, and high frequency may be used. The far end of the utility must be grounded.

Connect the red TesT cord to an existing ground point or an exposed metallic section of the utility

. Place the Ground rod approximately 10 feet from this point, at an angle of 90º to the buried

cable or pipe. Push the Ground rod into the ground 8 to 10 inches. Connect the Black TesT cord

to the Ground rod.

Plug the red/Black TesT cord into the TX OUTPUT JACK. Select the desired frequency. The Signal

Output Indicator will flash once signal is established.

The optional flexicouPler and Hard couPler are very easy to use, and services do not have to

be interrupted. The operation range is shorter than for Direct Connection methods. The tracing

signal can be affected by neighboring cables and pipes. The red/Black TesT cord or the Ground

rod are not needed for this method.

Successful couPler operation requires an insulated conductor that is grounded on both near and

far ends.

Loop the flexicouPler around the cable and connect the two ends, or clamp the Hard couPler

around the cable. It is important to connect the couPler around the cable needing to be traced.

Connect the couPler around the wire closer to the outgoing cable not near the system ground.

The result will be a stronger signal. By connecting near the grounding, the range will also be

shorter, and difficulty may arise determining one cable from another.

Plug the couPler into the TX OUTPUT JACK.

Some couplers are frequency specific others can operate on any frequency from 4kHz to 82kHz.

CAUTION

TRANSMITTER

BLACK

BURIED CABLE

RED

FLEXICOUPLER

BURIED CABLE

TRANSMITTER

DO NOT CONNECT TO LIVE OR

ENERGIZED POWER CABLES

Coupler & flexiCoupler ConneCtion

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This method is convenient to use, and services are not interrupted. No test cords or connections

are needed. The cable or pipe must have good insulation or non-conductive coating, or the

operating range will be short.

Turn the TransmiTTer ON. Select 33kHz through 478 kHz. Place tranSmItter on ItS SIDe as close as

possible to the path of the cable or pipe. Align the ARROWS on the SIDE OF THE TRANSMITTER

in line with the cable or pipe. First, locate the broad TransmiTTer Null, then move toward the

expected cable path while looking for the signal carried by the cable.

Start tracing the path with the receiver 25 feet from the TransmiTTer. Search in the 90º zone as

shown above. Locate the cable or pipe, and follow the path. If the signal becomes weak, move

the TransmiTTer to a point 25 feet behind the last strong signal, and continue searching.

The Blind Search locating techniques is used if the operator is not aware if a buried utility exists.

Two people are needed for this technique. The TransmiTTer and the receiver are Held 25 feet away

from each other. Each operator walks at the same speed keeping a distance of 25 feet from

each other. When the receiver gives an audio response, then a buried utility is present between

the receiver and the TransmiTTer.

TRANSMITTER

25 Feet (7.5 Meters) Between Transmitter and Reciever

RECEIVER

TRANSMITTER

25 Feet (7.5 Meters) Between Transmitter and Reciever

RECEIVER

induCtive ConneCtion

blind searCh

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seleCting the traCing signal

The choice of frequency is dependent on the conditions of the locate. It is generally accepted

that lower frequencies provide a more accurate locate. Therefore it is generally advised to use

the lowest frequency that effectively conducts on the target line. Lower frequencies are less

likely to bleed onto adjacent non-target lines, but low frequencies are less effective at locating

higher-resistant conductors.

FREQUENCY RANGES

Frequencies are classified into three major categories, Low, Medium and High and they are

classified as follows:

• Low Frequencies < 1 kHz (1000 Hz) e.g. 512 Hz, 640 Hz, 815 Hz

• Medium Frequencies 1 kHz to 44 kHz e.g. 4 kHz, 8 kHz, 33 kHz

• High Frequencies 44 kHz to 480 kHz e.g. 65 kHz, 82 kHz, 200 kHz

FREQUENCY CHARACTERISTICS

The low, medium and high frequencies each have their advantages. It is recommended to

begin by using a low frequency, and continue as long as you are confident in the results. If the

signal is very weak try to adjust the connection or grounding. If there is no improvement in signal

then try mid-range frequencies. Again, if there is weak or absent signal, repeat adjustments of

the grounding and connection point before switching to a high frequency.

The method of signal application may dictate the frequencies used. While direct connection

can be performed on any frequencies, coupler induction will only work with medium and high

frequencies and transmitter induction will only work on the highest of the medium frequencies

(33kHz) and high frequencies.

Low Frequencies are usually preferred to the mid-range frequencies and high frequencies

because they are less susceptible to locating errors caused by coupling of signal to adjacent

conductors, cables or pipes. The low frequency locating range is also much longer than the

medium and high frequencies. Low frequencies will not travel well on highly resistive lines

or conductors that have interruptions in their continuity (e.g. disconnected shield bonds or

insulated pipe bushing). Low frequencies may only be applied via direct connection.

Medium Frequencies take the best of both high and low frequencies. Medium frequencies are

not as susceptible to bleed off or coupling as the high frequencies, and medium frequencies

can jump minor breaks in continuity and conduct on higher resistant lines better than low

frequencies. It is still best to use low frequencies whenever effective, but 8 kHz and 33kHz are of

the most common frequencies used in locating. Medium frequencies may be applied via direct

connection and via coupler induction [Note: 33kHz may be applied via transmitter induction].

High frequencies are sometimes better than the low frequencies for locating highly resistant

lines as well as conductors that have breaks in their continuity (e.g. disconnected shield bonds

or insulated pipe bushing). The locating range is quite short for the high frequencies so the

TransmiTTer must be repositioned more often during the tracing operation. High frequencies may

be applied via direct connection, coupler induction and transmitter induction.

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ON/OFF Button

The unit will load settings from previous usage. Automatic shut off after 10 minute of no use.

FREQUENCY Button

Toggles through available selected active and passive frequencies.

Note: Some frequencies are only available in certain modes and some modes will only be

available with certain frequencies. The available selectable frequencies can be edited within the

programing menu.

MODE Button

Toggle through available modes. PEAK, PINPOINT PEAK, NULL, LEFT/RIGHT, and SONDE locating

modes.

Note: The available selectable modes can be edited within the programing menu.

SHIFT, LOG, DEPTH, P-Link Button

This key's function changes depending on the features turned on within the programming menu.

Under normal operation the SHIFT/DEPTH/LOG Key will force take a digital depth reading and, when

used with data logging, send locate data to a GPS or data logger.

When used with the P-Link communication between the transmitter and the receiver the SHIFT/

DEPTH/LOG Key will trigger the sending the selected frequency to the transmitter.

GAIN Button (Up or Down)

Adjusts the gain up or down. If the graph shows signal strength off scale, pressing the GAIN will

automatically adjust to 50% on the scale display.

pathfinder pls reCeiver Controls & indiCators

ABSOLUTE SIGNAL STRENGTH

DEPTH

RELATIVE SIGNAL

STRENGTH BAR GRAPH GAIN LEVEL INDICATOR

Left Right Guidance

Displays direction to

null point of e.m. field.

ANTENNA LOCATE MODE

Displays selected

antenna mode.

DISPLAYS SELECTED

FREQUENCY

BATTERY LIFE

Displays receiver's

battery life.

OPERATION MODE

Displays selected

operation mode

PathLink

Displays remote

connection to

transmitter &

transmitter output

power.

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Changing the transmitted frequency with PathlInk

Select the desired active frequency by pressing the Frequency key. Once the

desired frequency is selected, pressing the ShIft/loG/DePth button will remotely

select the frequency on the Transmitter. The icon of the transmitter will flash

momentarily then becoming solid confirming the selected frequency has been set

at the transmitter. If the transmission is incomplete or if the frequency requested is

not available, then the symbol will continue to flash.

Changing the transmitted power with PathlInk

To increase or decrease the transmitted power output, simply press and hold

depressed the ShIft/loG/DePth key while pressing either the GaIn UPor Gain Down key

to increase or decrease the power output level. The power indicator icon on the

receivers PathLink section of the LCD will display accordingly indicating the power

out level.

Note: In P-Link mode the manual digital depth engaged by the ShIft/loG/DePth key is disabled

and the automatic depth function is enabled.

Turning On and Off PathlInk

·To turn on the remote control feature, PaTHlink,start with the unit on.

·Press and hold depressed the Menu button (Power on/off)for 4 seconds.

·"Pro" will display at the top of the LCD.

·Using the uPor Down (GaIn uP/ GaIn Down) menu keys scroll to "P-Link".

·Use the arrow rIGht (ShIft/loG/DePth) key to select the P-Link Menu.

·Press the menu Select button to select P-Link "on".

·Exit the Programming Menu by short press of the menu button or arrow left (frequency)to

make other programing selection.

·In a moment the PathLink Indicator will be displayed on the receiver LCD indicating the

unit has linked with the transmitter.

pathlink Controls

The optional PaTHlink feature enables the user to remotely control the transmitter with the

receiver. The frequency and power output of the transmitted signal can be controlled up to 800

meters (874 yards).

If your unit does not have the PathLink module, the program will not allow the menu to select

the option on.

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If you rotate the receiver while over the cable, a sharp NULL will identify the cable’s direction. It

is aligned with the flat side of the receiver.

CABLE

PATH

MAXIMUM

RECEIVER

SIGNAL DIRECTION

CABLE

NULL SHOWS

PATH

CABLE

peak mode loCating

Peak and Pin Point Peak modes have less error rates than the null locating mode in most

circumstances. The peak mode location indication should be verified by the null to ensure

locating accuracy.

With the receiver in a vertical position. Move the receiver left to right across the path. When the

receiver isdirectly abovethe cableor pipe,rotate thereceiver for amaximum signal.As youmove the

receiver away from the cable path, the meter reading (and audio frequency response) will drop off.

The Left/Right arrows operate off of the Null reading. By utilizing the Left/Right arrows while in

Peak mode the user can simultaneously locate in both modes thus quickly identifying the match

or discrepancy between the Peak and the Null reading.

loCating modes

There is a variety of locating modes available in the PATHFINDER PLS unit. PEAK, PINPOINT PEAK,

NULL LEFT/RIGHT GUIDANCE, SONDE, DFF & ACC. To toggle through PEAK, PINPOINT PEAK &

NULL simple press the mode button. To toggle to SONDE mode hold the MODE button for 5

seconds and release. DFF and ACC modes are only selectable when an appropriate accessory

is plugged into the accessory port in the handle of the receiver.

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If you can no longer trace the path, even with the GAIN set to maximum, connect the TransmiTTer

to the far end of the path and trace back to the point where you lost the signal.

Mark the straight sections of the path every few feet. Mark sharp curves, loops, and cable

bundles every few inches. Sharp changes in the path cause the receiver'sPEAK and NULL

indications to behave differently than when tracing a straight path. Practice on the path that

you know has turns and laterals in it. This will help you to recognize the conditions within the

field.

Trace the path by walking away from the TransmiTTer at a moderate pace. Move the receiver to

the left and right while walking, following the PEAK indications.

Asyoutracethepath,thePEAKmeterreadingmayslowlyfadeasyoumoveawayfromtheTransmiTTer.

Press and release the GAIN buttons as needed to compensate for changes in level (higher or lower).

One of the following may have occured at areas of detected signal loss:

a) a junction where the signal divides and goes several directions.

b) a break in the cable or shield.

c) a change in the depth of the cable or pipe.

d) an insulated pipe fitting.

e) a slack loop of cable.

Move the receiver left to right across the cable path. When the receiver

is directly above the cable or pipe, a NULL (lowest meter reading and lowest audio

tone) will occur. When moving the receiver to left or right of the NULL point, the

meter reading will rise to a maximum point (PEAK). The audio tone will also be at its

highest pitch. When the receiver is moved beyond the PEAK, the meter reading will begin to

fade.

Trace the path by walking away from the TransmiTTer at a moderate pace. Move the receiver to

the left and right when walking, following the NULL indications.

It is expected that in areas of distortion and interference the Null locating mode will have a

greater error rate than the Peak locating mode.

null mode loCating

Null Mode

Buried cable

Signal over cable

Peak Mode

(End view)

Receiver Max

(End view)

Receiver Min

Signal over cable

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The PATHFINDER PLS receiver provides the operator with a direct measurement of the receiver’s

signal strength. The measurement is displayed with three numerical digits (ex: 485) located at the

top of the LCD display. The measurement range is from 0 to 999 indicating a very week signal

(0) to a very strong signal (999). Absolute Signal Strength is independent of the GAIN setting

or meter reading. It gives the operator information about the actual amount of signal being

radiated from the conductor and received by the receiver.

Measuring Absolute Signal Strength at any time is done by reading the number at the top of the

LCD display. The Absolute Signal Strength will not be displayed if the meter reading is too high

or too low. Adjust the GAIN to move the meter reading to mid-scale. The numerical display will

change from ‘---’ to a valid measurement.

Absolute Signal Strength measurements are more sensitive to signal changes than the meter

display. PEAKS and NULLS can be more precisely pin-pointed. This measurement can also be

used to monitor signal loss as the conductor is being traced.

The GAIN up and down buttons are used to increase and decrease the gain in small amounts.

If the meter reading is very low, pressing the GAIN up button will center the meter reading to

mid-scale. Likewise, if the meter reading is very high, pressing the GAIN down button will center

the meter reading to mid-scale.

absolute signal strength

gain level indiCation

In this mode the unit will display directional arrows to the

conductor. The audio indicator will provide a solid tone

on one side of the conductor and a pulsed tone on the

opposite side of the conductor. When the unit is centered

in the electromagnetic field the tone will null and the depth

will briefly display at the top of the LCD. This mode is gain

independent.

The Left/Right arrows operate off of the Null reading and will

have the same error rate as the Null locating mode. By utilizing

the Left/Right arrows with the absolute signal strength reading

the user can simultaneously locate with both Peak and Null

modes, thus quickly identifying the match or discrepancy

between the Peak and the Null reading.

left right auto gain direCtional loCating

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The PATHFINDER PLS receiver is capable of locating power utility frequencies. This MODE is useful

for locating underground primary and secondary power utilities. In certain circumstances, this

MODE will also locate water pipes, sewer lines, cable television, and telephone. The reason is

that common electrical grounds are sometimes found among these various utilities. Select 50Hz

or 60Hz frequency on the receiver. PINPOINT PEAK mode will automatically be selected as the

preferred method to locate the conductor in passive power mode.

This method is useful because of its speed and convenience. Start at a known reference point

and keep in mind that other conductors in the area may produce this same locating signal.

The TransmiTTer is not required to locate in this mode.

Note: The unit of depth measurement determines the selection of either 50Hz or 60Hz passive

mode. The unit is configured for 50Hz when in Metric Measurement mode and 60Hz when in

English Measurement Mode. To change unit of measurement press and hold the frequency

button for 10 seconds, when released the unit will toggle measurement units.

The PATHFINDER PLS receiver is capable of passively locating metallic utilities where radio

frequencies have coupled to the utility. This mode is useful for sweeping a green area for

utilities. In certain circumstances, this mode will locate water pipes, cable television, gas lines

and telephone. This locating option does not always detect buried utilities even when radio

frequencies are present. This method is useful because of its speed and convenience. Start at

a known reference point and keep in mind that other conductors in the area may produce this

same locating signal.

The TransmiTTer is not required to locate in this mode.

passive 50/60 hzloCating

passive radio frequenCy loCating

The PATHFINDER PLS RECEIVER is capable of locating the rectified signal of Cathodically Protected

utilities at 120Hz and 100Hz. This method is useful because of its speed and convenience. Start at a known

reference point and keep in mind that other conductors in the area may produce this same locating signal.

Note: The unit of depth measurement determines the selection of either 100Hz or 120Hz passive mode.

The unit is configured for 100Hz when in Metric Measurement mode (for 50Hz power) and 120Hz (for

60Hz power) when in English Measurement Mode. To change unit of measurement press and hold the

frequency button for 10 seconds, when released the unit will toggle measurement units.

The TRANSMITTER is not required to locate in this mode.

passive reCtifier Cp loCating

1.816.353.2100 www.rycominstruments.com

The only way to be sure of the depth of a utility is to exposes the utility.

At any given time, the depth readout may be inaccurate.

The PATHFINDER PLS Receiver can perform digital depth measurement. The depth is dis-

played at the top of the LCD display in centimeters or feet and inches. Push button depth is

useful in quickly estimating the depth of the conductor during path locating.

Begin this measurement by locating the path of the cable or pipe. Stay at least 15 feet (4.6

meters) away from the Transmitter. Pin-point this location as accurately as possible (see Peak

Mode Locating page 19, Null Mode Locating page 20 and Absolute Signal Strength page 21).

Place the Receiver vertically over the conductor and rest the foot of the locator on the ground.

While holding the Receiver vertical, press and release the DEPTH button. The Receiver will

briefly indicate a measurement is being performed and then display the depth at the top of the

LCD display.

Caution must be exercised when using the push button depth feature, as tilted magnetic fields

and adjacent conductors can significantly influence this measurement. The operator should

periodically check for adjacent conductors and tilted magnetic fields when taking push button

depth readings. For information on identifying tilted magnetic fields, refer to Tilted Magnetic

Field Identification and Depth Measurement 45º Method.

Depth is determined by reading the electromagnetic field radiating from the conductor. The

field must be even and circular for the most accurate reading. Interference of this field may be

caused by bends in the cable, faults on the target conductor and signals radiating from adja-

cent non-target conductors. Interference will warp the field and skew the depth reading. The

only way to be sure of the depth of a utility is to expose the utility. At any given time, the depth

readout may be inaccurate.

The following are methods and procedures that will aid in increasing the reliability and testing

the accuracy of the depth reading:

• Take depth readings at least 5 yards from cable bends or depth changes. Follow the

cable both forward 5 yards and backward 5 yards, ensuring the line is straight and

there is a consistent signal strength reading.

• Check for non-target conductors within 5 yards of the target cable. Sweep the

area looking for coupled signals into both the tracks and adjacent cables. Adjacent

conductors carrying the locate signal can result in a 50% error rate of the depth

reading.

• Test for interference in the magnetic ﬁeld by comparing the PEAK location to the Null

location. The determined cable position by these methods should be within 3 inches of

each other. A greater disparity will indicate interference resulting in inaccurate depth.

• Place the receiver vertically over the conductor and perpendicular to the conductor.

Rest the foot of the locator on the ground. Take several depth readings moving slightly

across the perpendicular plane to the conductor looking for the lowest depth reading.

• Once the lowest depth reading is found, take several readings. Each reading should be

within one inch of the other reading. Wider variation will indicate interference resulting

in inaccurate depth.

• Lift the receiver up 12 inches and take a depth reading. The reading should reﬂect the

change in distance accordingly. If not, interference is present resulting in inaccurate

depth.

• Verify the depth reading using the triangulation method as described below:

· Mark the path on the ground as precisely as possible using the Null method.

· Place the Receiver on the ground with the LCD meter facing up. Position the unit

so that the Bubble Level on top of the meter is centered (45º).

· Pull the Receiver away from the cable path (at 90º to the cable path) keeping the

Bubble Level centered.

· When the receiver indicates a Null reading, mark the location of the receiver’s foot.

· The distance between the Receiver and the cable path is the depth of the pipe or

cable. A false depth reading may be caused by nearby buried metallic objects, such

as a second cable, pipe, sewer, fence or railroad track.

· Conﬁrm the depth measurement by repeating the above steps on the opposite side

of the pipe or cable.

· A variance greater than 5 inches in depth measurement may indicate interference

from adjacent cables, pipes or other objects.

push button depth

DE PTH R EA DI NG

EP TH R EA DI NG (A + 12" )

LIF T 12"

Buried cable or pipe

Earth

locate

Path 1st

Null

centered

Bubble level

2nd

(end view)

Depth

45°

(A )

• Peak & Null readings match

• From the Peak/Null location take several

readings across cable.

• Mark position indicated by lowest depth reading.

• While stationary take multiple depth readings.

• Reading should be consistent.

1.816.353.2100 www.rycominstruments.com

The PATHFINDER PLS receiver contains a feature that is very useful in identifying a desired cable in

a field of various conductors and/or utilities. It is not unusual for the target conductor (the con-

ductor connected to the transmitter) to induce a signal into nearby conductors in a crowded

field. In these instances, the radiated signal on the conductors close to the surface of the earth,

may be stronger than the TransmiTTer signal on the target conductor buried deep in the ground.

The operator will find two or more paths and must determine which is the target conductor. By

using the current measurement feature of the PATHFINDER PLS receiver, the operator can deter-

mine the amount of 815 Hz, 8 kHz, 33kHz or 82 kHz current flowing on the conductors, regardless

of the depth. The highest current flow indicates the target conductor.

Place the receiver vertically over one of the conductor marks and rest the foot of the locator

on the ground. Holding the receiver vertical, press and release the Shift Button & Depth button

simultaneously. When the meter changes from a “thermometer” type display to a “bar” type

display, hold the receiver still until the measurement stabilizes. The blinking bar indicates the

signal level on the cable (adjusted for depth). Next, move to the second cable and repeat

the measurement. The blinking bar will show the signal level on the conductor. In addition, the

previous reading is shown as a solid bar. The higher of these two readings will show which con-

ductor is carrying the greatest locating signal.

Current measurement

Move to the location you want to measure depth. Stay at least 15 feet away from the TransmiTTer.

Move the receiver left to right across the path until the cable is located. Mark the path on the

ground as precisely as possible using the Null Method.

Place the receiver on the ground with the LCD meter facing up. Position the unit so that the

BUBBLE LEVEL on top of the meter is centered (45º). Pull the receiver away from the cable path

(at 90º to the cable path) keeping the BUBBLE LEVEL centered. When the receiver indicates a

NULL reading, mark the location of the receiver’s foot. The distance between the receiver and

the cable path is the depth of the pipe or cable.

A false depth reading may be caused by nearby buried metallic objects, such as a second

cable, pipe, sewer, fence or railroad track. Confirm the depth measurement by repeating the

above steps on the opposite side of the pipe or cable.

A variance greater than 5 inches in depth measurement may indicate the presence of

additional buried cables, pipes or other objects.

Buried cable or pipe

Earth

locate

Path 1st

Null

centered

Bubble level

2nd

(end view)

Depth

45°

depth measurement 45º angle method

1.816.353.2100 www.rycominstruments.com

When adjacent cables or pipes are present, they will sometimes create locating errors. Some

of the Transmitter signal is picked up by the adjacent conductors and is redirected so that it

combines with the original signal. The result is a Tilted Magnetic Field. This is often the reason

that numeric depth readouts are sometimes created in error.

The operator can verify the accuracy of path locate by performing a variety of tests.

• The 45º Angle Method locate on both sides of the cable path. If the right and left

side depth readings agree to within 5 inches, the path locate is accurate. If the two

depth readings do not agree, then dig with care. A closer locate would be halfway

between the two outside depth locate marks.

• Test for interference in the magnetic field by comparing the PEAK location to the

Null location. The determined cable position by these methods should be within 3

inches of each other. A greater disparity will indicate interference resulting in inac-

curate depth.

NOTE: The Left/Right arrows operate off of the Null reading. By utilizing the Left/Right

arrows while in peak mode the user can simultaneously locate in both modes thus

quickly identifying the match or discrepancy between the Peak and the Null read-

ing.

These are important techniques that should be used to ensure the most accurate location

possible.

skeWed magnetiC field identifiCation

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