Vivax Metrotech vLoc3-Cam Instruction Manual

vLoc3-Cam User Handbook
(English Edition)
Version V1.0
P/N:4.04.000133
[email protected] | 13309 Beach Ave. Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Phone: 800-WCT-PROD (928-7763) | Fax: [phone] | www.wctproducts.com

[email protected] | 13309 Beach Ave. Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Phone: 800-WCT-PROD (928-7763) | Fax: [phone] | www.wctproducts.com

Table of Content
1. General Safety & Care Information....................................................................................................................1
1.1 Who Can Use This Equipment.................................................................................................................1
1.2 Work-site Safety.......................................................................................................................................1
1.3 Equipment Safety.....................................................................................................................................1
1.4 Batteries and Environmental Safety.........................................................................................................1
1.4.1 Alkaline Batteries (Non-Rechargeable).........................................................................................1
1.4.2 Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries (Rechargeable)............................................................................1
1.4.3 Lithium-Ion Batteries (Rechargeable)...........................................................................................2
1.4.4 Lithium-Metal Batteries (Non-Rechargeable)................................................................................2
1.4.5 General Rules regarding Disposal of Batteries.............................................................................2
1.4.6 Transportation of Lithium-Ion and Lithium-Metal Batteries ...........................................................2
1.5 Care of Equipment...................................................................................................................................3
1.6 Care when Interpreting the Information provided by the Locator.............................................................3
1.7 American & Canadian Safety Notices......................................................................................................3
2. Service & Support..............................................................................................................................................4
2.1 Serial Number and Software Revision Number .......................................................................................4
2.2 Distributors and Service Centers Closest to You: ....................................................................................5
3. vLoc3-Cam Receiver .........................................................................................................................................6
3.1 vLoc3-Cam Receiver Overview................................................................................................................6
3.2 vLoc3-Cam Receiver Keypad .................................................................................................................7
3.3 Battery Packs...........................................................................................................................................7
3.4 User Menu................................................................................................................................................8
3.4.1 About.............................................................................................................................................9
3.4.2 Speaker Volume............................................................................................................................9
3.4.3 Sound Configuration.....................................................................................................................9
3.4.4 Backlight .......................................................................................................................................9
3.4.5 Language....................................................................................................................................10
3.4.6 Imperial/Metric ............................................................................................................................10
3.4.7 Continuous Information...............................................................................................................10
3.4.8 Auto Power Off............................................................................................................................10
3.4.9 Bluetooth Pairing (Optional Feature) ..........................................................................................10
3.4.10 Self-Test......................................................................................................................................10
3.5 Self-Test.................................................................................................................................................10
3.6 vLoc3-Cam Receiver Locate Screen Shots...........................................................................................11
4. Using the vLoc3-Cam ......................................................................................................................................13
4.1 Active Locating:- Applying the Transmitter.............................................................................................13
4.1.1 Direct Connection .......................................................................................................................13
4.1.2 Signal Clamp (83.1kHz)..............................................................................................................14
4.1.3 Induction (83.1kHz).....................................................................................................................16
4.2 Locating Active Signals..........................................................................................................................17
4.3 Searching (sweeping) an Area in the Peak Mode..................................................................................17
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4.4 Tracing a Buried Line..............................................................................................................................18
4.5 Depth Measurement................................................................................................................................18
4.6 Distorted Fields.......................................................................................................................................19
4.7 Sonde Location Mode.............................................................................................................................19
4.8 Active Location of the Camera Rod.........................................................................................................22
4.9 Passive Locating.....................................................................................................................................24
4.9.1 Detecting Power Signals.............................................................................................................24
4.9.2 Detecting Radio Signals..............................................................................................................25
4.10 Depth Measurement in passive modes ..................................................................................................25
5. Connecting to External Devices.......................................................................................................................26
5.1 Bluetooth.................................................................................................................................................26
5.2 Pairing with external GPS/Dataloggers...................................................................................................26
6. MyLocator3......................................................................................................................................................27
6.1 MyLocator3 .............................................................................................................................................27
6.2 My Locator3’s Basic Operation...............................................................................................................27
6.2.1 Updates Page.............................................................................................................................27
6.2.2 Application Update......................................................................................................................28
6.2.3 Locator Firmware update............................................................................................................29
6.3 Toolbar ....................................................................................................................................................30
6.4 Data Logging...........................................................................................................................................30
6.5 Splash Screen.........................................................................................................................................30
6.6 Frequencies Page...................................................................................................................................31
6.7 Menu Settings.........................................................................................................................................32
6.8 Advanced Features.................................................................................................................................32
6.8.1 Supervisor Lockouts ...................................................................................................................32
7. Accessories & Options.....................................................................................................................................33
7.1 Receiver Carry Bag..................................................................................................................................33
7.2 VM-550FF Transmitter.............................................................................................................................33
7.3 Receiver Vehicle Charging Lead..............................................................................................................33
7.4 Sondes.....................................................................................................................................................33
7.5 Clamps.....................................................................................................................................................34
7.6 Lithium-ion Rechargeable Battery Pack...................................................................................................34
7.7 Receiver Battery Charger.........................................................................................................................35
7.8 Ground Spool...........................................................................................................................................35
8. Glossary...........................................................................................................................................................36
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Page 1 of 36
1 General Safety & Care Information
1. General Safety & Care Information
1.1 Who Can Use This Equipment
●This equipment must only be used by people suitably trained in the use of pipe and cable locators.
1.2 Work-site Safety
●Use your company’s, or other applicable safety code and rules when using this equipment.
●Unless having the required authorization, license and appropriate training – do not make connections to any pipe, cable or
conductor.
●The equipment should not come in contact with corrosive or hazardous chemicals, gases, or dust.
●Do not directly connect this equipment to cables or pipes that have a potential difference to ground of greater than 25VAC.
1.3 Equipment Safety
●Do not open the enclosures (housings) of either the transmitter or receiver.
●Place the ground stake firmly in the ground before connecting the cable from the transmitter.
●Do not hold any uninsulated portion of the connection leads & clips when the transmitter is switched on.
1.4 Batteries and Environmental Safety
Vivax-Metrotech products use four types of batteries:
●Alkaline batteries
●Ni-MH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries – rechargeable
●Lithium-Ion batteries – rechargeable
●Lithium-Metal batteries – (small non-rechargeable button cells for “clock” applications)
1.4.1 Alkaline Batteries (Non-Rechargeable)
●When replacing the alkaline batteries – use only the size and type specified – do not mix battery types (rechargeable and
alkaline).
●Do not mix partially discharged and fully charged cells in the same battery pack – do not mix old with new.
●Never attempt to charge alkaline batteries.
1.4.2 Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries (Rechargeable)
●When using rechargeable batteries, use only the correct charging device supplied or specified by the manufacturer. The
battery pack or the battery charger will contain circuitry to manage the charging process – other chargers, (even if they have
the same connector, polarity, voltage & current rating will not have the same control circuitry and can cause damage to the
product, overheating, and in extreme cases fire or harm to the individual.
●Do not assume that if the plug fits it is the correct charger – a charger with the correct part number must be used – just
because it is a Vivax-Metrotech charger and the plug fits does not mean it is the correct charger.
●Before using for the first time, charge the rechargeable batteries for six hours. If at any time the rechargeable batteries do
not last as long as anticipated – discharge fully and then charge for six hours.
●Care should be taken when charging batteries – Never repeatedly recharge batteries (or turn power off & on) without using
the instrument. If used with an inverter in a vehicle – charge the product then unplug the charger and do not charge again
until the rechargeable batteries have been used for at least ten minutes. Failure to do this could result in the overcharging of
the battery which will shorten the life of the battery, and could in some circumstances cause overheating or fire.
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Page 2 of 36
1 General Safety & Care Information
●If ever the product becomes hot during the charging process immediately unplug the charger and use the rechargeable
batteries for at least ten minutes before recharging. If this reoccurs the next time the unit is charged – return immediately to
Vivax-Metrotech for repair.
●Do not charge batteries for prolonged periods of time without using the locator for at least ten minutes. Charging for
prolonged period of time could overcharge the battery, reduce the battery life and in extreme circumstances cause damage
to the locator and fire.
1.4.3 Lithium-Ion Batteries (Rechargeable)
●Lithium-Ion Batteries – some products use Lithium-Ion batteries – the requirements for marking and transportation are still
developing. Please contact Vivax-Metrotech before shipping products containing Lithium-Ion batteries or Lithium-Ion battery
packs on their own for any “special instructions”.
1.4.4 Lithium-Metal Batteries (Non-Rechargeable)
●Commonly known as “button cells” these are small – non-rechargeable batteries used to power internal “clocks” within some
units (similar to computers). Generally, they have a life of three to five years.
●Under no circumstances should any attempt be made to charge these batteries.
●Dispose of according to your company’s work practice/environmental standards, the prevailing laws, or recognized best
practice. Always dispose of batteries responsibly.
1.4.5 General Rules regarding Disposal of Batteries
●Never disassemble a battery, or battery pack.
●Never dispose of in a fire or water.
●Dispose of batteries in accordance with your company’s work practice/environmental standards, the prevailing laws, or
recognized best practice. Always dispose of batteries responsibly.
1.4.6 Transportation of Lithium-Ion and Lithium-Metal Batteries
●The Lithium-Ion and Lithium-Metal batteries used in Vivax-Metrotech products meet the required safety standards and
include the designated protection circuitry.
●Recent regulation changes require that when batteries with Lithium-Ion and Lithium-Metal batteries are transported, the
packaging must include specified warning labels.
●Please contact Vivax-Metrotech Customer Service (USA 1-800-446-3392, International [phone] (USA Pacific
Time Zone)) for more details.
●Regulations have also changed regarding the shipping of spare battery packs (battery packs that are not inside a product).
There are limitations on the weight of the package, and the packaging must be marked with the appropriate warning labels.
●Please contact Vivax-Metrotech Customer Service (USA 1-800-446-3392, International [phone] (USA Pacific
Time Zone)) for more details.
●Vivax-Metrotech vLoc Series 2 products using Lithium-Ion battery are classified as "not restricted" they can be shipped
normally by road/rail/sea & air (passenger & freight aircraft) without restrictions.
IMPORTANT
Remember – Batteries contain dangerous chemicals – They can be affected by many things such
as water ingress or heat – In some circumstances they can explode. They also can cause electric
shocks!
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Page 3 of 36
1 General Safety & Care Information
1.5 Care of Equipment
●Use equipment only as directed in this User Handbook.
●Do not immerse any part of this equipment in water.
●Store in a dry place.
●Keep equipment in the case provided when not in use.
●If left for prolonged period of time – remove alkaline batteries.
●Keep unit clean and free of dust and dirt.
●Protect against excessive heat.
1.6 Care when Interpreting the Information provided by the Locator
●Like all locators – this instrument is locating, and providing depth and current readings based on electromagnetic signals
that radiate from the buried cable or pipe. In most cases these signals will enable the locator to pinpoint both position depth
and current correctly.
●Beware – in some cases other factors will distort electromagnetic fields radiating from cable or pipe being located, resulting
in incorrect information.
●Always locate responsibly, and use information learned during your training to interpret the information provided by the
locator.
●Do not provide information regarding depth of cable or pipe to anyone unless authorized to do so by your company.
●Remember that depth measurements are to the center of the electromagnetic field or pipe – In the case of pipes this may
be significantly deeper than the top of the pipe.
1.7 American & Canadian Safety Notices
USA
●This transmitter and receiver comply with the general conditions of operation, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
ο CFR 47 Part 2
ο CFR 47 Part 15
●Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the
products.
CANADA
●Equipment is for use by trained operators only, and not for general household or consumer use.
●Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
EUROPE
●Vivax-Metrotech confirms that the location system is compliant with relevant provision of European directive 1999/5/EC.
ο EN 55011
ο EN 61000-4-2: A1 & A2
ο EN 61000-4-3
ο EN 61000-4-8: A1
ο ETSI EN 300 330-2
ο ETSI EN 301 489-1
ο ETSI EN 301 489-3
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Page 4 of 36
2 Service & Support
2. Service & Support
2.1 Serial Number and Software Revision Number
Always quote your receiver and transmitter model number, serial number and software revision number when requesting product
support. They can be found as follows: (for reference only).
1
1 Model & Serial Number
NOTE
Software Revision Number: The software revision number is displayed on the LCD during the startup
sequence or can be found in the “About” section of the user menu.
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Page 5 of 36
2 Service & Support
2.2 Distributors and Service Centers Closest to You:
World Headquarters, United State of America Central/South America and the Caribbean
Vivax-Metrotech Corporation
3251 Olcott Street,
Santa Clara, CA 95054, USA
Website: www.vivax-metrotech.com
Sales & Sales Support:
T/Free : 800-446-3392
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Email : [email protected]
Service & Repairs:
T/Free : 800-638-7682
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Email : [email protected]
Ventas para América Latina
3251 Olcott Street,
Santa Clara, CA 95054, USA
T/Free : 800-624-6210
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Website : www.vivax-metrotech.com
Email : V[email protected]
China
Leidi Utility Supply (Shanghai) Ltd.
No. 780, Tianshan Rd,
Shanghai, China 200051
T/Free : 4008-206-719
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Website : www.leidi.cn
Email : [email protected]
Australasia
Vivax-Metrotech AUS
Unit 1, 176 South Creek Road,
Cromer NSW 2099, Australia
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Website : www.vivax-metrotechaus.com
Email : [email protected]
[email protected]
France
Vivax-Metrotech SAS
Technoparc - 1 allée du Moulin Berger,
69130 Ecully, France
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Website : www.vivax-metrotech.com
Email : [email protected]
Canada
Vivax Canada Inc.
41 Courtland Ave Unit 6,
Vaughan, ON L4K 3T3, Canada
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Website : www.vivax-metrotech.com
Email : [email protected]
United Kingdom
Vivax-Metrotech Ltd.
Unit 18-19, Woodside Road,
South Marston Industrial Estate,
Swindon, SN3 4WA, UK
Free Phone: [phone]
Tel : [phone]
Website : www.vivax-metrotech.com
Email : [email protected]
Germany
Metrotech Vertriebs GmbH
Am steinernen Kreuz 10a
D-96110 Schesslitz
Tel : [phone]
Email : [email protected]
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Page 6 of 36
3 vLoc3-Cam Receiver
3. vLoc3-Cam Receiver
3.1 vLoc3-Cam Receiver Overview
The vLoc3-Cam is a Precision Sonde Location System designed to meet the needs of plumbers, plumbing contractors, utility
companies and their contractors or anyone looking to locate sondes. The following describes the features and use of the
receiver.
1 vLoc3-Cam Receiver 4 AAAlkaline batteries
2 Mini-USB cable 5 User manual
3 Alkaline battery holder
1
2
3
4
5
6
78
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Page 7 of 36
3 vLoc3-Cam Receiver
1 Pushbutton & Display 5 Mini-USB Port for Software Upgrade
2 Model number# & Serial number# 6 Battery compartment cover
3 Battery retaining cover 7 Charging port for optional rechargeable battery
4 AAAlkaline Battery Pack 8 Expansion sockets, not functional for the vLoc3-
Cam
3.2 vLoc3-Cam Receiver Keypad
1 2 543
6
1 On/Off
2Reduce sensitivity
(Also scroll up when in User Menu)
3 Select frequency
4Increase sensitivity
(Also scroll down when in User Menu)
5Short press = change antenna response
Long press = change operational screen
6Short press = enter information screen
Long press = enter User Set-up options
3.3 Battery Packs
The vLoc3-Cam can be used with either alkaline batteries or an optional rechargeable battery pack.
The central illuminated section within the battery icon indicates the amount of charge remaining.
●Blue center indicates Alkaline batteries
●Green center indicates rechargeable batteries
●When batteries are low the charge remaining section becomes red and will flash
Just before shutdown the following symbol will be shown:
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Page 8 of 36
3 vLoc3-Cam Receiver
Alkaline battery replacement
●Unscrew the battery compartment cover and hinge downwards.
●Use the clip on the battery retaining cover to release the cover and hinge up.
●Slide out the battery holder and replace ALL 6 AA type batteries.
●Reverse process to replace the holder with new batteries.
Optional rechargeable Li-ion batteries
Rechargeable batteries are supplied with a mains charger. This is specific to the batteries, avoid the use of other manufacturers’
chargers as these may damage the battery pack and may result in overheating of the battery pack.
To charge the rechargeable batteries, first make sure the pack is inserted in the receiver battery compartment as charging is
done with the battery inside the receiver.
Connect the charger to the charging/accessory socket of the receiver. Connect the charger to the mains and switch on. The LED
indicator on the charger will illuminate red until the batteries are fully charged at which time the LED will change to green.
WARNING
Rechargeable batteries are supplied with a mains or 12V DC charger. These are specific to the
batteries. Only use the charger that is appropriate for the batteries in the product. If in doubt, call
the Vivax-Metrotech customer service department at [phone]. Failure to use the appropriate
charger could result in damage to the battery pack, locator and in extreme cases cause fire.
Avoid charging the unit in extreme temperature conditions. (i.e. below 0ºC and above 45ºC)
Although Vivax-Metrotech batteries include all the required safety related features, immediately
discontinue use of the charger and battery pack if the battery pack becomes excessively warm.
Return both to where they were purchased for investigation.
Always ensure batteries have at least a partial charge if storing for long periods without use.
Dispose of all batteries in accordance with your company procedures and Federal/State and local
regulations.
Never dismantle batteries, put them in fire, or get wet.
3.4 User Menu
The vLoc3-Cam has several features that can be switched on and off. These features are accessed through the user menu.
Switch on the unit by pressing and holding the On/Off key until the start-up screen appears. The start-up screen can be
configured to the user’s preference and is described later in the manual. Otherwise the start-up screen will default to the one
below:
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Page 9 of 36
3 vLoc3-Cam Receiver
Access to the User Menu is via the “i” button. Press and hold down the button until the menu appears.
Menu
About
Speaker Volume
Sound Configuration
Backlight
Language
Imperial / Metric
Continuous Information
Auto
English
Feet
Depth & current
Menu
Auto Power Off
Bluetooth Pairing
Self Test
10 Minutes
Main Menu
Note that the manual shows three screens but only one is shown on the vLocPro3 display at a time.
Note that where you see this sign it means that pressing the enter button gives access to the sub-menu associated with
this button.
To exit the menu or sub-menu, press the “ i ” button.
Where the icon is not shown, the enter button is used to scroll through the options of that feature.
Use the “ + ” and “ - ” buttons to scroll up and down through the menu.
The features are described below:
3.4.1 About
This section holds the data about the locator such as software revision, calibration data etc.
3.4.2 Speaker Volume
Press the enter button to scroll through the speaker volume settings.
3.4.3 Sound Configuration
Allows configuration of sounds generated in locate modes.
●Active mode:
ο Frequency Modulated (FM) Sound pitch changes with signal strength.
ο Amplitude Modulated (AM) Sound volume changes with signal strength.
●Radio mode: FM or Real (Sound derived directly from received signal).
●Power mode: FM or Real.
3.4.4 Backlight
Press the enter button to change the backlight intensity setting. Note that high backlight setting will affect battery life. Or select
“Auto” which automatically sets backlight depending on ambient light levels.
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Page 10 of 36
3 vLoc3-Cam Receiver
3.4.5 Language
The unit may be supplied with different language options. Use the enter key to select the language of choice.
3.4.6 Imperial/Metric
Select either Imperial or Metric measurements.
3.4.7 Continuous Information
The front Locate Screen can display a continuous reading of either Depth, Current, Both or can be switched off. Use the enter
button to select your preference.
3.4.8 Auto Power Off
The unit can be set to switch off after a set time. Options are: 5-minutes, 10-minutes, or Never.
3.4.9 Bluetooth Pairing (Optional Feature)
Press the enter button to enter the Bluetooth pairing routine. This allows the unit to link with external devices such as
dataloggers and GPS devices that have Bluetooth capability.
3.4.10 Self-Test
Pressing the enter key will initiate a series of self-tests. If any of the tests fail repeat the test in a more interference free site
i.e. away from fluorescent lights, power signal sources etc. If the unit continues to fail, the unit should be returned to Vivax-
Metrotech Corporation or one of its authorised service centers for repair.
3.5 Self-Test
The vLoc3-Cam has a Self-Test feature. The test confirms that the equipment is fit for use and calibration has not drifted from its
expected settings.
To undertake the test, first find an area free from excessive interference such as overhead fluorescent lighting, large
transformers etc. Also check that any nearby vLoc transmitters are switched off.
Select “Self-Test” from the user menu and press the “Return” button. The test will self-start. Keep the equipment stationary while
the test is completed. After a short while the unit will report a Pass or Fail. Examples are below:
108.1
63.1
88.6
87.0
Self Test: PASSED
108.1
63.1
88.6
87.0
Self Test: FAILED
If the unit fails the test, try again in a more interference free area. If it continues to fail, return the unit to Vivax-Metrotech or one
of its approved repair centers for investigation and repair.
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Page 11 of 36
3 vLoc3-Cam Receiver
3.6 vLoc3-Cam Receiver Locate Screen Shots
The user interface of the vLoc3-Cam is under continual development. The screen shots described may differ slightly from current
screens.
The vLoc3-Cam gives the user a choice of two different locate screens. The choice of screen depends on the application.
●Classic Line/Pushrod Locate Screen
●Sonde Locate Screen
This manual will first explain the functions of the “Classic Line/Pushrod Locate Screen”.
An overview of the Classic Screen
Classic Screen:
78.9 83.1kHz26dB
1.58m
Status bar:
All the screens have a status bar at the top which indicates various settings of the locator. The bar is shown below:
0.39m 18.3
21 3 764 5
1 Antenna configuration (meter response) described later in the manual
2This icon is shown in this position when the sonde locate screen is selected
3 Depth to target line or Sonde depending on locate screen selected.
4 Bluetooth status (Only if optional Blue tooth is installed)
5 Status of external GPS if paired with optional Bluetooth module.
6 Speaker volume setting
7 Battery type and remaining charge
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Page 12 of 36
3 vLoc3-Cam Receiver
The Classic Line/Pushrod Locate Screen has all the functions normally seen on a classic cable locator. The main functions
being:
78.9
83.1kHz26dB
1.58m
1
2
5
6
3
4
1 Percentage signal strength (mirrors the bar graph setting)
2 Peak level indicator
3 Gain setting
4 Bar graph signal strength indicator
5 Compass line direction indicator (turns blue when aligned with target line)
6Frequency selection (flashing frequency indicates frequency selection is not valid for this screen. Choose another
frequency)
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Page 13 of 36
4 Using the vLoc3-Cam
4. Using the vLoc3-Cam
4.1 Active Locating:- Applying the Transmitter
Active locating uses a transmitter to apply a precise frequency to a pipe or cable, then uses a receiver turned to detect the
signal being radiated at that precise frequency. Active location frequencies can be applied by direct connection, signal clamp or
induction. (This is further explained in the following sections) the active frequency used in the vLoc3-Cam is 83.1kHz).
Active locating has the benet that, unlike passive detecting, the operator is in control of the signals and therefore can be more
specic about what line is detected. That is to say active signals can be used for line tracing. Also, passive signals are not
always present on a line so using active signals ensures more lines are detected. (For passive locating see section 4.9)
To inject a signal requires the use of a transmitter. The signal can be injected, or applied, to the target line in a variety of ways.
4.1.1 Direct Connection
This method involves making an electrical connection to the cable or pipe.
WARNING
When connecting to a cable, only connect to the sheath of that cable. The direct connection leads are
not designed for connection to live cables.
WARNING
Do not touch metal parts of the connection clips when connecting to the line or when the transmitter
is on.
WARNING
Only authorized personnel should make connections to cables.
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Page 14 of 36
4 Using the vLoc3-Cam
To make a direct connection, insert the direct connection connector to the transmitter. Insert the ground stake into the ground
a few meters perpendicular to the line. Connect the black lead to the ground stake. Now take the red lead and connect to the
target line.
Switch on the transmitter by pressing and holding the on/off button down for a couple of seconds. Select the desired frequency
depending on the application. Check for a good connection by either noting the mA output on the display or noting the change in
tone rate when disconnecting and then reconnecting the red lead (depending on transmitter model).
Things that can affect the quality of the connection are:
1. Rusty pipe connection point: clean the connection area with a wire brush.
2. Poor grounding: try inserting the stake into damp ground. Dampen the surrounding ground with water. If still an issue, try
connecting to a manhole cover surround. Avoid connecting to fence railings as these may create return signal currents along
the fencing that will interfere with the locating signal.
Always start with a low output and increase the output if the received signal is not strong enough. Setting the output to high
when it is not required may result in some of the signal “bleeding off” onto other services and will drain more power than
necessary from the battery.
When connecting to a ferrous material, it is sometimes not possible to find a suitable projection to apply the connection clip. If
this is the case, use the optional magnet to make contact to the line and then clip the red clip to the magnet. A good example of
this is to make a connection to a street lighting circuit. Usually it is the practice to connect the sheath of a lighting cable to the
metallic inspection cover of a street lamp. Making a connection to the inspection plate will energize the cable via the plate and
sheath. Usually there is no projection on the plate on which to clip, so using the magnet on the plate provides a suitable clipping
point.
4.1.2 Signal Clamp (83.1kHz)
In many situations, it is not possible to gain access to a cable to make an electrical contact. Or if there is, it is not safe to do so.
The signal clamp provides an e󰀩cient and safe method of applying a locate signal to a cable.
Note that for best results the cable should be grounded at both ends.
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Page 15 of 36
4 Using the vLoc3-Cam
When clamping around a cable make sure the clamp is placed below the grounding point as shown below.
When applying a clamp close to a grounding point where multiple grounds or a grounding bus exists, ensure that you place the
clamp around the target line and not to the ground bus/other grounds This will help focus the applied signal to the target line.
Clamp Extension Rod
A useful accessory to the clamp is the extension rod:
The extension rod is tted with a 10mm threaded male stud. This male thread screws into the handle of the signal clamp to
extend the distance of the clamp. This is helpful in areas with di󰀩cult access such as in manholes or overhead cables (not to be
used on uninsulated overhead power cables).
The extension rod is also tted with a female thread in the handle which enables the rods to be tted together to further extend
the range. To access this thread, slide the yellow handle o󰀨 the rod.
To operate the clamp jaws when attached to the rod, gently pull on the clamp cord which will open the jaws. Release cable to
close them.
WARNING
ALWAYS follow the appropriate safety requirements mandated by safety legislation, safety practice or
your company’s safety procedures when applying a clamp (coupler) to a cable.
BEWARE that when placing a clamp around cables carrying high current, the clamp may vibrate, jump
or close violently due to inducted current from the target cable.
In some situations, high voltages can be induced back onto the clamp and be present at clamp’s plug.
Safety practices should be followed all times when clamping around live target lines!
In all situations ensure the clamp is connected to the transmitter before clamping around a line.
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Page 16 of 36
4 Using the vLoc3-Cam
4.1.3 Induction (83.1kHz)
Note that Induction mode is not suitable for detecting camera rods.
With no direct connection lead or signal clamp connected, the transmitter will automatically start to radiate a signal around the
transmitter. These signals will penetrate the ground and couple onto buried lines. The signal will then travel along the line which
can be detected with the vLoc3-Cam locator.
Applying an induction signal to a line.
Remove any connections from the output connector. Switch on the transmitter and place it over the suspected position of the
line and position it so that it is in line of the target as above. In the case of the Loc3-10Tx that is with the handle pointing along
the line and in the case of other transmitters, arrows printed on the labels should point along the line of the target line.
The induction mode is particularly useful where there is no access to the line, but it should be noted that this is the least e󰀩cient
method of applying a signal and it is also prone to signals being applied to adjacent lines.
50ft
(20m)
dd
Also note that the signal will radiate out to the side of the transmitter as well as below. For this reason, it is recommended that
when applying a signal using the induction method, a distance of at least 20m is kept from the transmitter when pinpointing or
taking depth readings. Locating closer than 20m is possible but the operator should be aware that the signal directly received
from the transmitter may be strong enough to inuence the results.
[email protected] | 13309 Beach Ave. Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Phone: 800-WCT-PROD (928-7763) | Fax: [phone] | www.wctproducts.com