Schonstedt SPOT User manual
Page | 2
Im po rta nt No tic e
Sc ho nste d t b e lie ve s the sta te m e nts c o nta ine d he re in to b e a c c ura te a nd re lia b le ;
ho we ve r, the ir a c c ura c y, re lia b ility, o r c o mp le te ne ss is no t g ua ra nte e d .
Sc ho nste d t's o nly o b lig a tio n sha ll b e to re p a ir o r re p la c e a ny instrum e nt p ro ve n to b e
d e fe c tive within se ve n ye a rs o f p urc ha se . Sc ho nste d t sha ll no t b e re sp o nsib le fo r a ny
injury to p e rso ns o r p ro p e rty, d ire c t o r c o nse q ue ntia l, a rising fro m the use o f a ny
instrume nt.
October 2018
Page | 3
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction ...................................................................................................... 4
Chapter 2: Operating Instructions ..................................................................................... 6
Operating Controls .................................................................................................... 7
Signal Strength .......................................................................................................... 8
Battery Level ............................................................................................................. 8
Replacing the Battery ................................................................................................. 8
Chapter 3: Operating Recommendations and Application Notes.........…………………..9
Search Procedure .................................................................................................... 10
Basic Signal Patterns ............................................................................................... 10
Strongly Magnetized Markers ................................................................................... 12
Correct Stake Orientation ......................................................................................... 12
Locating Manholes, Septic Tanks and Well Casings................................................. 13
Locating and Tracing Barbed Wire ........................................................................... 14
Searching Areas along a Chain Link Fence.............................................................. 14
Locating Valve Boxes ............................................................................................... 15
Locating Cast-Iron Pipes .......................................................................................... 16
Locating Steel Drums ............................................................................................... 17
Additional Notes ....................................................................................................... 17
Chapter 4: Specifications and Regulatory Compliance................................................. 18
Specifications ........................................................................................................... 19
Regulatory Compliance and Declaration of Conformity............................................. 20
Chapter 5: Technical Support/Service Information........................................................ 21
Chapter 6: Warranty......................................................................................................... 23
Page | 4
1
INTRODUCTION
Page | 5
Introduction
SPOT, a magnetic locator, detects the magnetic field of ferromagnetic objects. It responds to
the difference in the magnetic field between two sensors that are spaced approximately 20
inches apart. This difference is referred to as the “signal strength” throughout this manual
and is represented in the instrument by an audio tone that changes its frequency to help you
pinpoint a target and determine its orientation.
Figure 1 illustrates SPOT detecting an iron marker that is used for property line identification.
As shown, the magnetic field of the iron marker is stronger at sensor A than it is at sensor B.
This creates a signal strength that is larger than zero (which would occur when the field
strength is the same at both sensors).
The audio response of SPOT is designed so that the frequency of the audio tone increases
as the detected signal strength increases. As a result, the frequency of the audio output is
higher than the idling frequency (~ 30 Hz), which exists when the signal strength is
approximately zero.
Following in the steps of Schonstedt’s iconic magnetic locator, the GA-52Cx, SPOT retains
the “yellow stick” look, the sturdiness of the Aluminum tube and the exact same performance
(including the same 5 gain settings). However, SPOT adds modern ergonomics and
functionality, plus improved environmental performance.
Figure 1: Detecting the Magnetic Field of an Iron Marker
Page | 6
2
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Page | 7
Operating Controls
The controls on SPOT are designed to be intuitive and require minimal training for
effective use. The locator can easily be operated with one hand.
Figure 2: SPOT® Membrane Switch
ON/OFF:Push this button to turn the unit on or off. Upon turn ON, the unit emits 1
short beep indicating that the gain setting is #1 (1=Extra Low, the default setting on
power up).
Volume: Upon turn ON, the volume defaults to HIGH. Pushing this button changes
the volume to MEDIUM. Additional pushes of this button toggle the volume between
HIGH and MEDIUM.
Gain:The sensitivity of the unit can be increased (to detect smaller objects at
greater depths) or decreased (to detect larger objects at shallower depths) by
adjusting the gain. The sensitivity mirrors that of the GA-52Cx: 1=Extra Low, 2=Low,
3=Medium, 4=High and 5=Extra High. Each time the gain is changed, the unit emits
a number of short beeps equal to the gain setting (i.e. one beep for gain #1, two
beeps for gain #2, and so on).
Vo lum e
O N/ O FF
G a in
Page | 8
Signal Strength
The signal strength -- defined as the difference, or delta (Δ), between the magnetic field
detected at the top and bottom sensors -- is indicated by the frequency of the audio signal. A
higher audio frequency tone indicates a stronger signal; a lower audio frequency tone
indicates a weaker signal.
Battery Level
When the battery level gets to be too low (6.8 V), the unit starts to beep for approximately ½
second, every 13 seconds, to remind the user that the battery needs to be replaced. When
you hear this tone, replace the battery as soon as possible. Battery life varies with usage and
ambient temperature. Cold temperatures reduce battery life. When the battery level reaches
6.0 V, the unit turns off to protect the electronic circuits inside.
Replacing the Battery
SPOT is powered by one 9-volt disposable battery. The battery compartment is located near
the top of the locator, as shown in Figure 3. To remove the battery, simply unscrew the two
flat head screws holding the battery door. The screws are captive and will not come off the
battery door. Once you have removed the battery door, gently pull the battery from its
compartment and unplug the connector.
Connect a new battery, place it back in the compartment, and replace and screw in the
battery door. As a safety measure, the unit will not turn on if the battery connector is not
inserted correctly. You should never have to force the battery door closed. If the battery does
not sit easily and flat in place, check the battery and the connector for proper seating in the
battery compartment.
Figure 3: Replacing the Battery
Page | 9
3
OPERATING RECOMMENDATIONS
AND APPLICATION NOTES
Page | 10
Search Procedure
Turn the instrument ON. The gain defaults to Extra Low (#1), as indicated
by one beep emitted upon turn ON. Depending on the size and orientation
of your target, you may have to increase the gain. A typical operating
range for the gain is #2 or #3. Grasp the locator, as illustrated in Figure 4.
Because the upper sensor is near the top of the locator, wristwatches
may produce unwanted changes in the audio signal and should be
removed. Keep the locator away from your shoes and any keys that may
be in your pockets; these items may contain magnetic material.
To obtain maximum area coverage, sweep the locator from side to side.
When the locator comes within range of an iron object, the signal strength
will peak, causing the frequency of the audio signal to peak.
NOTE: The frequency of the audio signal will depend on the signal
strength, which is affected by the type of iron object detected, its
orientation and the gain setting.
Basic Signal Patterns
When SPOT is positioned directly over a vertical target, the signal strength will peak (audio
signal will be at highest frequency, depending on the gain setting). The audio signal also
peaks over each end of a horizontal target, as shown in Figure 5.
Figure 5: Signals from Vertical and Horizontal Targets
Fig ure 4: Se a rc hing
with SPO T
Page | 11
After you have detected the presence of a target, hold the locator vertically, slowly move it
back and forth in an "X" pattern and listen to the audio response. The audio peak will occur
when the locator is directly over a vertical target, or it will occur over the ends of a horizontal
target. The "X" pattern, as shown in Figure 6, is ideal for pinpointing small objects. By using
this technique, a 1-1/4 inch PK nail buried up to 12 inches can be precisely located.
Figure 6: The "X" pattern provides precision locating
If you are looking for a corner marker and detect two or three signals in the same general
vicinity, raise the locator several inches above the ground or decrease the gain setting. Any
signal that disappears (either when the locator is held higher or when the gain is decreased)
is likely coming from a smaller target. The signal from a rusty bolt or other small item (see
Figure 7) is much weaker than the signal from a larger target, such as an 18-inch length of
3/4 inch rebar which can be located at depths up to 9 feet.
Figure 7: Decreasing the gain or lifting the locator eliminates unwanted signals
Page | 12
Strongly Magnetized Markers
A strongly magnetized marker, at or near the surface, provides a weaker indication on both
sides of the marker that could be mistaken for the marker.
In Figure 8, the heavy line represents the increase and decrease in the audio signal
frequency as you move the locator over a marker. Between points Aand B, the signal
increases slightly and then decreases. Just beyond B, the signal increases rapidly, peaks
directly over the marker and then decreases at point C. From C to D, the signal increases
and decreases again. Therefore, if you do not move the locator completely across the
marker, you may assume that
the weaker indication on
either side of the marker is its
location. The two weaker
indications occur because the
locator is extremely sensitive
to the magnetic field
components parallel to its
long axis. At points Band C,
the field is perpendicular to
the locator, so no significant
audio indication is produced
at these points.
Figure 8: Signal Pattern from a
Strongly Magnetized Marker
Correct Stake Orientation
When placing stakes, correct orientation is important. For
verification purposes, the orientation of the pin relative to
the locator is shown in Figure 9. Check the pin with one
orientation, and then rotate the pin 180°. The orientation
which gives the largest reading is the one that should be
used.
An iron pin has two types of magnetization. One is the
magnetization induced by the Earth's magnetic field; the
induced magnetization is always downward in the
Northern Magnetic Hemisphere. The other type of field is
the permanent magnetization, which is fixed to the pin.
For maximum detection, the stake should be driven into
the ground so that the permanent magnetization is in the
same direction as the induced magnetization.
Fig ure 9: C he c king a
Sta ke ’ s O rie nta tio n
Page | 13
Locating Manholes, Septic Tanks and Well Casing
The magnetic field is strongest at the edge of a shallow manhole cover. You can easily trace
the edges of covers near the surface. The locating depth for manhole covers ranges up to 10
feet.
The great length of a well casing provides a strong field at the surface that makes it easy to
locate casings buried up to 18 feet deep.
Figure 10: Locating Manhole Covers
Figure 11: Locating Water Well Casings
SPOT can be used to precisely locate the metal handles or reinforcing bars on septic tank
covers at depths of up to 5 feet.
Figure12: Signal Pattern Provided by Septic Tank Covers
Page | 14
Locating and Tracing Barbed Wire
You can often trace barbed wire (from old fence lines) buried just beneath the surface. Even
if the wire is only a trail of rust, it can still be detected near the surface. Tip the locator a little
lower than usual (but not parallel with the ground).
First, examine trees for bench marks and bits of embedded barbed wire. Then, hold the
locator parallel with the direction of the wire.
Figure 13: Tracing Barbed Wire from Old Fence Lines
Searching Areas along a Chain Link Fence
Searching in the vicinity of a chain link fence requires a reduced sensitivity setting and some
control over the orientation of the locator. As illustrated in Figure 14, position the locator
horizontally with its long axis perpendicular to the fence. This ensures that the upper sensor
is kept away from the fence.
Figure 14: Searching in the Vicinity of a Chain Link Fence
Page | 15
Along the fence, perform the search by slowly moving the locator forward while also moving it to
the right and to the left. As you move forward, this technique will allow you to search an area
that is several feet wide. Listen for an abrupt drop in the signal (as shown by the null in Figure
15) that will occur when the lower sensor, located 1-5/8 inches from the end of the locator, is
directly over the stake. Any variation in the position of the locator will produce an abrupt rise in
the frequency of the signal.
Figure 15: Placement of Locator While Searching Along a Chain Link Fence
Locating Valve Boxes
Both the valve and its casing, when iron, provide strong magnetic fields that make them easy
to locate. Plastic enclosures containing magnets (which are typically used with non-ferrous
valve boxes) are easily located at depths of up to 10 feet.
Figure 16: Locating Valve Boxes and Casings
Page | 16
Locating Cast-Iron Pipes
Cast-iron pipes produce the strongest magnetic signals at their joints.
Figure 17: Signal Patterns Provided by Cast-Iron Pipes
After an initial sweep search identifies the general direction of the pipe, the steel pipe joints or
transition points can be more accurately traced by the following procedure:
1. Set the sensitivity control to maximum (#5).
2. Hold the locator vertically approximately 1 to 1-1/2 feet above the surface.
3. Walk without turning or tilting the locator.
4. Mark the locations where the maximum signal levels occur.
5. Return to an area of maximum signal strength and hold the locator several inches
above the surface. The sensitivity will probably have to be reduced during this second
pass. Four-inch pipes can be located at depths of up to 10 feet.
Page | 17
Locating Steel Drums
As shown in Figure 18, the signal pattern will vary depending on the vertical or horizontal
orientation of the drum and how deep it is buried. A 55 gallon drum can be located at depths
of up to 10 feet.
Figure 18: Signal Patterns Provided by Steel Drums
Additional Notes
1. SPOT can detect buried ordnance and discarded weapons. SPOT is a viable tool for use
by the military and local/state police departments.
2. People drilling in an area where hazardous materials might be encountered can use
SPOT to search the area prior to drilling.
3. A burbling sound indicates the presence of an energized power line or the presence of
50/60Hz.
4. The instrument will not respond to non-ferrous metals such as gold, silver, copper,
brass and aluminum.
Page | 18
4
SPECIFICATIONS AND
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE
Page | 19
Specifications *
Audio Output Frequency increases or decreases with signal strength
(gradient field intensity).
Range: 30 to 4000 Hz.
Low Battery 0.5 sec Audio beep, every 13 seconds, when lower than 6.8V
Gain 5 levels: Extra Low (1), Low (2), Medium (3), High (4), Extra High (5)
Audio: Progression of audio beeps to correlate with gain setting
(one beep for #1, two beeps for # 2, and so on)
Volume 2 Levels: Medium and Maximum (default upon turn on)
Input Power Supplied by one 9V battery
Battery Life 24 Hours (intermittent usage)
Operating Temperature -13°F to 140°F (-25°C to 60°C)
Overall Length 42.3” (107.4 cm)
Nominal Sensor Spacing 20” (50 cm)
Weight Approximately 2.0 lb. (0.9 kg)
Construction Material High impact ABS body, Aluminum tube for sensors
Water and Dust Protection Rated IP54 overall, waterproof up to 27” (58 cm) from bottom tip
*Subject to change without notice
Page | 20
Regulatory Compliance and Declaration of Conformity
FCC:
++++
FCC Part 15B, Class B
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Industry Canada:
++++++++++++++
CAN ICES-003 (B)/NMB-003(B)
CE Mark:
++++++++
Application of Council Directives:
Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC)
Standard to which conformity is declared:
EN 61326-1:2013
Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS2)
Standard to which conformity is declared:
EN 50581:2012
International Protection Marking (IEC 60529):
+++++++++++++++
Rated IP54 for dust particles larger than 1 mm, and splashing water per test (a) (10 minutes, oscillating
fixture) and test (b) (5 minutes with shield in place).
Table of contents
Other Schonstedt Security Sensor manuals
