SafeGuard Compass User manual

User GUide
Personal VoltaGe & CUrrent deteCtor
always on. always aware. always safe.

table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Primary Functions | Device Specications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Device Positioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Operating Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Alerts | Detection Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Alert Distance Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Smart Adaptive Mode | Maximizing Alert Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Self-Test Mode | Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Limited Warranty and Limitation of Liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
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introdUCtion
1
Page
ComPass is a personal non-contact voltage and current detector that alerts users when
they approach an electried source. Its advanced notication system is designed to both
warn the user that a source is present and inform them of its approximate location.
The internal sensors in ComPass were designed to detect both electrical elds (voltage)
and magnetic elds (current). This advanced warning device can save lives and prevent
serious injury for anyone working in or around live AC sources.
ComPass can also be used as a portable non-contact voltage detector (NCVD) in live
working conditions above 1KV AC (IEC TR 61243-6: Type I), when mounted to the the
end of a suitable hot stick.

Personal VoltaGe &
CUrrent deteCtor
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Primary fUnCtions
- Identify live conductors.
- Detect residual or induced voltage.
- Find energized lines underground or behind non-ferrous material.
- Detect energized threats after accidents, disasters, and power outages.
deViCe sPeCifiCations
Size 3.5”x1.2”x.04” (88.9 mm x 30.48 mm x 10.16 mm)-Body. Wt: 0.5 oz (14.2 g)
Power System Rechargeable Lithium-Polymer (LiPo) Battery (3.7V, 250mAh). Discharge rate
varies depending on number of alerts, full charge can last 10+ days (80+ hrs)
Charging Typically charges to 100% in 1.5 hrs on a USB 2.0 Micro B (5V) charger.
Directional Accuracy Point source: Approximately ±20°
Detection Sensitivity Seven sensitivity levels + Smart Adaptive mode (see page 7)
Operating Frequency 50 Hz and 60 Hz options are available
Operating Conditions -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F): DO NOT charge Compass if <0°C (32°F)
RH: Max. 90% Non-Condensing @25°C,
Water Resistance Rated IP-67
Detection Voltage Ranges
High Voltage Model: 2400VAC-35kVAC RMS Line to Neutral, up to 500 kVAC
Low Voltage Model: 120 VAC – 2400VAC RMS Line to Neutral
*Detection distances vary depending on conditions, settings, and model.
Case Ratings
(Polycarbonate)
Flame Retardant: UL recognition 94 V-0 at 1.5 mm
Electric Strength (IEC 60243-1): 35kV/mm
Electric Volume Resistivity (IEC 60093): 1.0E+14 ohms*m
Certications CE (ROHS, WEEE, 2006/66/EU Battery Directive)
Standards
-EMC: EN 61326-1: 2013 Class B, CISPR 11:2015+A1:2016
Emissions and Immunity for Measurement Equipment
-Safety: EN 61010-1: Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for
Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use.
-IEC TR 61243-6 (Type I) Guidelines on non-contact voltage detectors
(NCVD) for use at nominal voltages above 1kV AC
-ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014 Class E Hard Hat, Full Brim, Type 1; Tested Accessory
-Voltage Detectors: ASTM F3283 / F3283M –18; Standard Specication for the
Manufacturing of High-Voltage Proximity Alarm to be used for the Detection
of Overhead High Voltage Alternating Current (AC)

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deViCe PositioninG
ComPass should be worn on the underside brim of a hard hat, directly
in front of the user’s face. Make sure the unit is within the user’s eld of
peripheral vision to maximize the visibility and effectiveness of voltage and
current alerts.
3
safety information
- ComPass should be used only by trained and qualied personnel.
- Always adhere to proper high voltage electrical safety practices.
- Extreme humidity may decrease voltage/current detection range.
- Before eld use, always conrm that ComPass is powered on and working (as indicated by the center light
blinking green every 5 seconds) and test with a known source of voltage/current.
- Always test and verify that the sensitivity settings on your ComPass are appropriate for the levels of voltage
and current most likely to be present in your workspace.
- Some materials may shield electromagnetic elds from the detection circuits of your ComPass.
- For optimal safety, always verify a potential voltage source is de-energized before making contact.
- ComPass should only be used as a secondary voltage detection method.
handheld oPeration
If users are working with low voltage sources (120-2400 VAC) ComPass can be used
as a handheld device. For best results, sensitivity should be set to high. Users should
not attempt to detect voltage under 2400 VAC while ComPass is still attached to
their hard hat.
When using ComPass in handheld mode, DO NOT obstruct the front of the device
as this will signicantly reduce or even eliminate its detection capabilities. Refer to
the photo and illustration at left for details on proper holding technique.
DO NOT OBSTRUCT
HOLD HERE
- Always wear voltage-appropriate protective equipment when holding ComPass.
- Detecting current in-hand allows users to trace live wires through some walls.
- Shielding may cause limited alert range when detecting
fuse box voltage.
- Do not allow ComPass to directly contact a live conductor.
notes on handheld mode
alternate oPeratinG Positions
In addition to hard hat and handheld use, ComPass can function
on a wrist strap, clipped on a lanyard, or mounted on a hot stick.
hard hat moUntinG

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Function Instructions Display
Charge
Plug Charger into Micro USB Port:
- One REDRED LED indicates charging.
- One GREENGREEN LED indicates fully charged.
- Press button during charging to display battery level. LEDs
will turn from REDRED to GREENGREEN as device charges.
- Blinking REDRED corner LEDs indicate device should be
charged ASAP
Power On
Press Button, ComPass will display:
- ORANGEORANGE start-up animation
- Center LED should blink GREENGREEN every 5 seconds
Mute
Alerts
Press button quickly:
- GREENGREEN LEDs = audible alerts ON
- REDRED LEDs = audible alerts MUTED
- Audible alerts will resume after 5min
Battery
Life Hold button until corner LEDs turn WHITE, then release.
Change
Sensitivity
Hold button until corner LEDs turn BLUEBLUE then release. In this mode,
press button until your desired voltage sensitivity level is displayed in
REDRED (see below) then hold button down until LEDs turn GREENGREEN to
select. Repeat for current sensitivity, which will display in BLUEBLUE.
Voltage/Current sensitivity settings display:
1-7 LEDs, 1 is lowest sensitivity and 7 is highest.
Smart Adaptive mode: LEDs move in and out. Current detection can be
deactivated by setting sensitivity to all BLUEBLUE LEDs off.
Power
Down Hold button until LEDs in both corners turn ORANGEORANGE, then release.
Sleep
Mode
If ComPass does not move for 60 seconds, the unit will go to sleep to
conserve battery life (ORANGEORANGE corner LEDs will light up then fade,
center LED will stop blinking). When device is moved, corner lights will
turn ORANGEORANGE again and center LED blinking will resume.
Reset
Device
Hold button down as corner LEDs cycle from WHITE to BLUEBLUE to
ORANGEORANGE. Keep holding button for several seconds after ORANGEORANGE
lights fade, unit reset is complete after the start-up animation has
occured.
Low
Battery
If REDRED corner LEDs begin blinking periodically, ComPass should be
charged ASAP.
oPeratinG instrUCtions

When ComPass detects voltage or current, it issues audio (beeping) and visual (ashing LEDs) proximity alerts.
As the user approaches an electried source, LED ashing and audio alerts will steadily increase.
REDRED LED alerts indicate VOLTAGEVOLTAGE BLUEBLUE LED alerts indicate CURRENTCURRENT
NOTE: If ComPass detects that both voltage and current are present,
voltage alerts will be given priority over current alerts.
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Proximity alerts
5
direCtional VoltaGe notifiCations
When ComPass has gathered sufcient information to approximate the location of an energized source of
voltage, the LED alert animation will change from PROXIMITY to DIRECTIONAL mode. In directional mode,
the LEDs make a sweeping animation that guides the user’s attention to the approximate direction of the source.
Directional Alerts
Source to Left Source to Right
240° active bearing range
Accurate to approx. ± 20°
from point source.
deteCtion distanCes
ComPass has been extensively eld tested to determine its detection range for both voltage and current. Our
testing process is described in the illustration below, and tables on the next page (page 6) display the results of
these tests with explanations of how the results were captured.

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Voltage Detection Warning Distances
Distances were measured using a 4ft x 2in diameter busbar elevated 2.5 feet above ground, in an outdoor
setting (26°C and 35% RH), by a tester walking at a normal speed with a ComPass mounted on a full-brim
hard hat. Distances will vary depending on conditions, always verify exact distances for a given situation.
current Detection Warning Distances
Absolute Distance
First Alert / Max Alert
3
2
(Lowest) 1
(Sensitivity) LEDs
(Medium) 4
6
5
(Highest) 7
1A 10A
1ft / X
1.25ft / X
1.5ft / 1ft 3ft / 2.25ft
2.25ft / 1.75ft
2.75ft / 2ft
50A
1.75ft / 1.25ft 3.5ft / 2.75ft
2ft / 1.5ft
2.75ft / 1.75ft 5.5ft / 3.5ft
4ft / 3.25ft
3.75ft / 2ft 7ft / 4.5ft
100A
5.5ft / 4.5ft
4.5ft / 3.5ft
5ft / 4ft
200A
6ft / 5ft
9ft / 6.5ft
7ft / 6ft
11ft / 7.5ft
3.5ft / 2.5ft
3.75ft / 3ft
4.25ft / 3.5ft
5ft / 4ft
5.5ft / 4.5ft
7ft / 5ft
9ft / 6ft
X / X
X / X
.5ft / X
.75ft / .25ft
1.125ft / .5ft
1.75ft / .75ft
X / X
X = alert distance under 1ft.
Distances were measured using a cable carrying current 2.5 feet
above ground, outdoors at 21°C and 40% RH, by a tester with
a ComPass mounted on a full-brim hard hat. Absolute distances
were measured with the tester moving slowly, whereas walkup
distance was measured at a normal walking pace toward cable.
Detection distances will vary in different conditions. Always
verify exact distances for a given situation. ComPass current
sensors are slower to react than voltage sensors, users
should move slowly when trying to detect current.
5.5 ft / 2 ft
6.5 ft / 2.5 ft
7 ft / 4 ft
9 ft / 5 ft
12 ft / 6ft
16 ft / 10 ft
First Alert / Max Alert
3
2
(Lowest) 1
(Sensitivity) LEDs
(Medium) 4
6
5
(Highest) 7
2.4 kV 4.2 kV
6 ft / 4 ft
8 ft / 4 ft
9 ft / 5 ft 11.5 ft / 6.5 ft
8.5 ft /5.5 ft
10 ft / 6 ft
7.2 kV
10 ft / 5.5 ft 12.5 ft / 8 ft
12.5 ft / 7 ft
14 ft / 8 ft 18 ft / 10 ft
14 ft / 8.5 ft
19 ft / 12 ft 22 ft / 14.5 ft
4.5 ft / 1.5 ft
Walkup Distance
First Alert/Max Alert
3
2
(Lowest) 1
(Sensitivity) LEDs
(Medium) 4
6
5
(Highest) 7
X / X
X / X
X / X
100A
1ft / X
2.5ft / 2ft
1.5ft / 1ft
4ft / 3ft
1ft / X
X / X
X / X
200A
2ft / 2ft
5ft / 3ft
3ft / 2.5ft
6.75ft / 4.25ft

Smart Adaptive Mode is designed for users working in an environment where electric and magnetic elds are
known to be present. ComPass can quickly adapt to the ambient elds and pause alerts if the user is not moving
closer to a detected source. If the user then moves closer to the detected source, alerts will begin again.
- ComPass will adjust to a constant eld after 5 seconds and alerts will pause automatically.
- You do not need to press the button to adjust sensitivity once you have entered Smart Adaptive mode.
- The corner LEDs will periodically ash YELLOWYELLOW once ComPass has adjusted to an environment, but
keep in mind that this means that a eld strong enough to normally trigger an alert is still nearby.
- If the user moves away from the energized source and the eld strength is reduced for approximately
5 seconds, ComPass will re-adjust and regain sensitivity, indicated by corner LEDs ashing BLUEBLUE.
WARNING: Smart Adaptive alerts are based on change in ambient electric or magnetic elds, not proximity to
the source. Alerts may not occur within the OSHA Minimum Approach Distance (MAD) in this mode.
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When using ComPass, always be aware of potential variables that could affect the accuracy of alerts:
- Warning distances can vary due to a live conductor’s exposed surface area, elevation above ground, and
proximity to any other grounded conductive objects.
- If the user is walking briskly, this may reduce initial warning distances by approximately two (2) feet.
- Warning distances can be reduced by large conductive objects such as a fence or vehicle as these objects
will attract the electric eld of a nearby energized conductor.
- 3-phase systems can hinder detection accuracy by creating electric elds that effectively cancel out their
overall eld strength.
- Humid conditions will reduce detection distance.
- Always verify ComPass will function in each work environment before relying on it as a safety device.
- Smart Adaptive Mode should be used only by experienced electrical professionals.
maximizinG alert aCCUraCy
smart adaPtiVe mode

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self-test
ComPass is equipped with a Self-Test to regularly verify in the background that all sensors are working prop-
erly. The unit automatically runs diagnostic scans approx. every 10 minutes and if any abnormality is detected,
ComPass will respond by locking out all user input and the corner LEDs will ash REDRED and YELLOWYELLOW. If these
LEDs keep ashing REDRED and YELLOWYELLOW, stop using ComPass and contact customer service. Self-test does not
test the visual and audible alert systems, so these should still be tested by user before each use.
WARNING! DO NOT use compass if these lights are ON or FLASHING.
troUbleshootinG
If you have attempted all troubleshooting measures
and compass continues to malfunction,
STOP using immediately.To resolve the issue,
please ll out an RMA form at
www.safeguardequipment.com/return
or call (208) 773-9263.
If your ComPass appears to be unresponsive (e.g. the center GREENGREEN LED is not ashing), it may have gone into
sleep mode. Move the unit several inches to see if the corner LEDs light ORANGEORANGE before the center LED
resumes its normal ashing. If ComPass remains unresponsive, you should:
1. Try charging on any micro USB power source for at least 90 minutes, OR
2. Reset by pressing and holding the button for 8-10 seconds until LEDs display start-up animation, OR
3. If ComPass continues to malfunction or provides the REDRED/YELLOWYELLOW “self-test” error warning after you
have attempted charging and/or resetting, stop using immediately and contact Safeguard for service:

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1-year limited warranty and limitation of liability
Effective November 1, 2017, this warranty applies to all products manufactured and sold by Safeguard Equipment, Inc. (the “Products”).
NOTICE: READ THIS LIMITATION OF WARRANTY AND LIABILITY BEFORE BUYING OR USING THE PRODUCTS CONTAINED
HEREIN.
It is impossible to eliminate all risks associated with the use of the Products. Risks of serious injury or death, including risks associated with
electrocution, arcing and thermal burns, are inherent in work in and around energized electrical systems. Such risks arise from the wide variety
of electrical systems and equipment to which Products may be applied, the manner of use or application, weather and environmental conditions
and/or other unknown factors, all of which are beyond the control of Safeguard Equipment, Inc. Safeguard Equipment, Inc. does not agree to
be an insurer of these or other risks, and shall have no liability for any claims arising from these or other risks inherent in electrical systems.
WHEN YOU BUY OR USE THESE PRODUCTS, YOU AGREE TO ACCEPT THESE RISKS.
Safeguard Equipment, Inc. warrants to the original purchaser that the Products will be free from defects in material and workmanship under
normal, with regular service and preventative maintenance, for a period of one (1) year from the date of shipment (the “Warranty Period”).
Should any failure to conform with this warranty be found during the Warranty Period, you must notify Safeguard Equipment, Inc. of your
claim within thirty (30) days of discovery, and within the Warranty Period. Your failure to give notice of claims of breach of warranty within
the Warranty Period shall be deemed an absolute and unconditional waiver of claims for such defects. Safeguard Equipment, Inc. will have no
responsibility to honor claims received after the date the applicable Warranty Period expires.
Upon notice of your claim, Safeguard Equipment, Inc. will provide a return authorization number and further instructions on how to return the
product for service. You must follow Safeguard Equipment, Inc.’s instruction. You are responsible for all Product removal, handling, re-installation,
and shipping (both to and from Safeguard Equipment, Inc.). Products returned for repair, as well as repaired or replacement Products, shall be
sent postage / freight prepaid. After receipt of a product that Safeguard Equipment, Inc. determines is defective, Safeguard Equipment, Inc. will,
at its option, either (1) repair (or authorize the repair of) the Product or (2) replace the Product, subject to the following: The Products are
made using parts sourced from a variety of manufacturers. Due to the rapidly changing technology environment, parts may become obsolete /
unavailable over time (end of life). In the event that a Product cannot be repaired or replaced due to unavailability of parts, Safeguard Equipment,
Inc. will use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain substitute parts or conduct work around design, but cannot guarantee its ability to do so.
Items not found defective will be returned at your expense, or failing receipt of instruction from you on return of such items within ve (5)
business days of our notice to you that the product is not defective, Safeguard Equipment, Inc. may dispose of the product at its discretion and
with no liability to you. Safeguard Equipment, Inc.’s determination of defects is nal. Products repaired or replaced during the Warranty Period
shall be covered by the foregoing warranties for the remainder of the original Warranty Period or ninety (90) days from the date of delivery
of the repaired or replaced Products, whichever is longer.
LIMITATIONS
- This warranty is void in the event of misuse, alteration, faulty installation, or misapplication of the product.
- This warranty does not cover failure of product or components due to any ACT OF NATURE including, but not limited to, lightning, oods,
hurricanes, tornadoes or any other such catastrophic events.
- Safeguard Equipment, Inc. does not warrant any third party products or associated hardware or their performance or suitability for use
and application.
- All repairs must be authorized by Safeguard Equipment, Inc. Unauthorized repairs will not be reimbursed under any circumstances.
- Safeguard Equipment, Inc. is not required to make replacement or loaner equipment available while Products are being repaired or
replaced, or to compensate you for any in/out labor charges or expenses associated with removal, handling or re-installation of the
products.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, this warranty and the remedies set forth above are exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties,
remedies and conditions, whether oral or written, express or implied.
SAFEGUARD EQUIPMENT, INC. EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
WITHOUT LIMITATION IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, MERCHANTABILITY AND NON-
INFRINGEMENT.
IN NO EVENT SHALL SAFEGUARD EQUIPMENT, INC. BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR SPECIAL
DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OR HANDLING OF THESE PRODUCTS. THIS SHALL INCLUDE, BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO,
LOST PROFITS OR REVENUE, LOSS OF USE OF THE PRODUCTS, COST OF SUBSTITUTE PRODUCTS, FACILITIES OR SERVICES, OR
DOWNTIME.
IN NO EVENT SHALL SAFEGUARD EQUIPMENT, INC. HAVE ANY LIABILITY FOR ANY THIRD PARTY PRODUCTS OR ASSOCIATED
HARDWARE, OR CUSTOMER-OWNED SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT OR SOFTWARE.
Safeguard Equipment, Inc. must have prompt notice of any claim so that an immediate product inspection and investigation can be made. Buyer
and all users shall promptly notify Safeguard Equipment, Inc. of any claims, whether based on contract, negligence, strict liability, or other tort
or otherwise be barred from any remedy.

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