Vivax Metrotech vLocPro2 User manual

vLoc Series 2 User Handbook
(vLocPro2, vLocML2)
(English Edition)
Version 1.8
P/N: 4.04.000021
vLocPro2 Receiver Serial Number above 20401082961
vLocML2 Receiver Serial Number above 21101080928

Table of Content
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..................................................3
1.5 Care of Equipment.......................................................................................................................3
1.6 Care when Interpreting the Information provided by the Locator..................................................3
1.7 American & Canadian Safety Notices..........................................................................................4
Service & Support.......................................................................................................................................5
2.1 Serial Number and Software Revision Number............................................................................5
2.2 Distributors and Service Centers Closest to You:.........................................................................6
vLocPro2 Receiver.....................................................................................................................................7
3.1 vLocPro2 Receiver.......................................................................................................................7
3.2 Charging the Receiver Batteries..................................................................................................8
3.3 vLocPro2 Receiver Main Display..................................................................................................9
3.4 vLocPro2 Receiver Screen Shots..............................................................................................10
3.5 Locating Mode (Response)........................................................................................................11
3.5.1 Peak Response Mode......................................................................................................11
3.5.2 Broad Peak Mode.............................................................................................................11
3.5.3 Null Mode.........................................................................................................................12
3.5.4 Peak with Arrows Response Mode...................................................................................12
3.5.5 Sonde Mode.....................................................................................................................13
3.6 Audio..........................................................................................................................................14
3.7 Sensitivity Control......................................................................................................................14
3.8 Frequency Selection..................................................................................................................14
3.9 Information Pushbutton (Depth & Current).................................................................................15
3.10 Information Pushbutton (Setup Menu)......................................................................................16
vLocML2 Receiver....................................................................................................................................17
4.1 Introduction................................................................................................................................17
4.2 Operating the vLocML2..............................................................................................................18
4.2.1 Switching Between Conguration.....................................................................................18
4.2.2 Standard...........................................................................................................................18
4.2.3 Dedicated.........................................................................................................................18

4.2.4 Marker Depth Estimation in Dedicated Mode..................................................................20
4.2.5 Dual Conguration............................................................................................................21
Data Logging............................................................................................................................................23
5.1 Bluetooth....................................................................................................................................23
5.1.1 Fitting the Bluetooth Module............................................................................................23
5.2 Holux GPS Device Overview......................................................................................................24
5.2.1 Pairing with the vLocPro2/vLocML2 Receivers................................................................25
5.2.2 Gathering Data in Active Modes.......................................................................................25
5.2.3 Gathering Data in Power and Radio (Passive) Modes.....................................................25
5.2.4 Transferring Data from the Locator to a Computer..........................................................26
5.3 Trimble ProXT/XH......................................................................................................................26
5.3.1 Trimble ProXT/XH Setting up Procedure.........................................................................26
5.4 Transferring Data from the vLoc2 to a Computer........................................................................28
5.4.1 MyLocator2......................................................................................................................28
5.4.2 Launch the Application.....................................................................................................28
5.4.3 Splash Screen..................................................................................................................29
5.4.4 Upload Data Files.............................................................................................................30
5.4.5 Software Update...............................................................................................................31
5.4.6 Advanced Conguration Tool...........................................................................................31
5.4.7 Switch On/Off User Menu Settings...................................................................................32
5.4.8 Switching On/Off Frequency Selections...........................................................................33
5.4.9 Saving a Conguration.....................................................................................................33
5.4.10 Configuration Lock Dongle.............................................................................................33
5.4.11 Icon Summary.................................................................................................................35
Loc-10Tx Transmitter................................................................................................................................36
6.1 Loc-10Tx Transmitter Overview.................................................................................................36
6.1.1 Display..............................................................................................................................36
6.1.2 Pushbuttons.....................................................................................................................36
6.1.3 Information Pushbutton....................................................................................................37
6.1.4 Connections Block............................................................................................................37
6.2 Transmitter Battery.....................................................................................................................37
6.2.1 Removing the Battery Tray................................................................................................38
6.2.2 Replacing the Alkaline Battery..........................................................................................38
6.2.3 Rechargeable Batteries....................................................................................................38
6.2.4 Re-tting the Battery Tray.................................................................................................38
6.2.5 Rechargeable Battery Pack Charging and Disposal...........................................................39
6.3 Transmitting Modes...................................................................................................................39
6.3.1 Induction Mode.................................................................................................................39
6.3.2 Direct Connection Mode...................................................................................................40
6.3.3 Clamp Mode.....................................................................................................................41
6.4 Frequencies........................................................................................................................42
6.4.1 Frequencies and Power Output........................................................................................42

6.4.2 Most Used Frequencies (Frequency Selection) Feature...................................................43
6.4.3 Multi Frequency Mode for Direct Connection....................................................................44
Loc-5Tx Transmitter..................................................................................................................................46
7.1 Loc-5STx Transmitter Overview................................................................................................46
7.1.1 Display.............................................................................................................................46
7.1.2 Pushbuttons.......................................................................................................................47
7.1.3 Information Pushbutton......................................................................................................47
7.2 Transmitter Battery.....................................................................................................47
7.2.1 Removing the Battery Tray..............................................................................................48
7.2.2 Replacing the Alkaline Battery.....................................................................................48
7.2.3 Rechargeable Batteries................................................................................................49
7.2.4 Re-tting the Battery Tra......................................................................................................49
7.2.5 Rechargeable Battery Pack Charging and Disposal.............................................49
7.3 Transmitting Modes............................................................................................................49
7.3.1 Induction Mode............................................................................................................49
7.3.2 Direct Connection Mode..............................................................................................50
7.3.3 Clamp Mode................................................................................................................51
7.4 Frequencies........................................................................................................................51
7.4.1 Frequencies and Power Output.........................................................................................51
7.4.2 Most Used Frequencies (Frequency Selection) Featur.......................................................53
7.4.3 Multi Frequency Mode for Direct Connection................................................................54
7.5 Transmitter Battery............................................................................................................55
7.5.1 Replacing Alkaline Batteries....................................................................................55
7.5.2 Rechargeable Batteries.............................................................................................55
7.5.3 Battery Charging and Disposal...........................................................................................56
7.6 Induction Mode.........................................................................................................................56
7.7 Direct Connection Mode........................................................................................................57
7.8 Clamp Mode.........................................................................................................................57
Loc-1Tx Transmitter...........................................................................................................58
8.1 Pushbuttons...............................................................................................................................58
8.2 External Connectors..................................................................................................................58
8.3 Replacing Alkaline Batteries.......................................................................................................58
8.4 Rechargeable Batteries.............................................................................................................59
8.5 Loc-1Tx Transmitter Operation..................................................................................................59
Using the vLocPro2..................................................................................................................................60
9.1 Using the Receiver.....................................................................................................................60
9.1.1 Line Locating....................................................................................................................60
9.1.2 Depth & Current Measurement.........................................................................................60
9.1.3 Sonde Location................................................................................................................61
9.1.4 Using the Compass (line direction indicator) Feature to Locate Sondes.............................62
9.2 Passive or Active Location.........................................................................................................63
9.2.1 Passive Locating..............................................................................................................63

9.2.2 Active Locating.................................................................................................................64
9.3 Applying the Transmitter’s Signal...............................................................................................64
9.3.1 Direct Connection.............................................................................................................64
9.3.2 Clamp (Coupler)...............................................................................................................65
9.3.3 Induction...........................................................................................................................66
9.4 Searching (sweeping) an Area...................................................................................................67
9.5 Tracing a Buried Line.................................................................................................................67
9.5.1 Pinpointing & Conrming the Buried Line.........................................................................68
9.5.2 Distorted Fields................................................................................................................68
9.6 Measuring Depth and Current....................................................................................................69
9.7 Signal Direction Precision Identication....................................................................................71
9.8 Using the Accessories...............................................................................................................73
9.8.1 Using the LPC Separation Filter.......................................................................................73
9.8.2 Using the Analogue A-frame in Fault Finding......................................................................74
9.8.3 Using the Analogue Remote Antenna..................................................................................77
Accessories & Options...........................................................................................................................83
10.1 A-frame (Optional)................................................................................................................83
10.2 Remote Antenna (Optional)...................................................................................................83
10.3 Loc-10Tx Vehicle Power Lead (Optional)..............................................................................83
10.4 Loc-10Tx Outdoor Power Supply (Optional)...........................................................................83
10.5 LPC Separation Filter (Optional)...........................................................................................84
10.6 Receiver Vehicle Charging Lead (Optional)...........................................................................84
10.7 Sonde (Optional)....................................................................................................................84
10.8 Clamp (Optional)....................................................................................................................85
10.9 Clamp Extention Rod...............................................................................................................85
10.10 Lithium-ion Rechargeable Battery Pack (Standard).................................................................86
10.11 Receiver Battery Charger (Standard)........................................................................................86
10.12 USB Cable (Standard)...........................................................................................................86
10.13 Alkaline Battery Holder (Standard)........................................................................................86
10.14 Ground Stake (Standard).......................................................................................................86
10.15 Direct Connection Lead (Standard)........................................................................................86
10.16 Loc-1Tx Alkaline Battery Tray (Standard)..............................................................................86
10.17 Ground Spool (Optional) .......................................................................................................87
10.18 Banana Plugs Adapter (Optional)...........................................................................................87
10.19 Loc-5Tx Battery Pack (NiMH).................................................................................................87
10.20 Loc-5Tx Alkaline Battery Tray.................................................................................................87
10.21 Loc-5Tx/10Tx Charger............................................................................................................87
10.22 Loc-10Tx Rechargeable Battery Tray.....................................................................................87
10.23 Loc-10Tx Alkaline Battery Tray...............................................................................................88
10.24 Live Plug Connector (LCC)..................................................................................................88
Glossary··························································································································88

Page 1 of 90
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 companies, or other applicable safety codes 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, or gases,
dust.
• Do not directly connect this equipment to cables or pipes that have a potential difference to
ground of greater than 25V AC.
1.3 Equipment Safety
• Do not open the enclosures (housings) of either the transmitter or receiver.
• Place the ground stake rmly 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 specied – 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 specied
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
General Safety & Care Information

Page 2 of 90
1 General Safety & Care Information
& current rating will not have the same control circuitry and can cause damage to the product,
overheating, and in extreme cases re or harm to the individual.
• Do not assume that if the plug ts, 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 ts does
not mean it is the correct charger.
• Before using for the rst time, charge 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 re.
• If ever the product becomes hot during the charging process, immediately unplug the
charger and use the rechargeable batteries for at least 10 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 10
mins. Charging for prolonged period of time could overcharge the battery, reduce the battery
life and in extreme circumstances cause damage to the locator and re.
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-ve years.
• Under no circumstances should any attempt be made to charge these batteries.
• Dispose of 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 re 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.

Page 3 of 90
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 specied warning labels.
• Please contact Vivax-Metrotech Customer Service (USA 1-800-446-3392, International
[phone] (USA Pacic 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 Pacic 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!
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 elds 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 eld or pipe –
In the case of pipes this may be signicantly deeper than the top of the pipe.
1 General Safety & Care Information

Page 4 of 90
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.
○ CFR 47 Part 2
○ CFR 47 Part 15
• Changes or modications 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.
○ EN 55011
○ EN 61000-4-2: A1 & A2
○ EN 61000-4-3
○ EN 61000-4-8: A1
○ ETSI EN 300 330-2
○ ETSI EN 301 489-1
○ ETSI EN 301 489-3
1 General Safety & Care Information

Page 5 of 90
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)
NOTE
The transmitter Model & Serial Number can be found at the bottom of the
transmitter and also inside the transmitter between the battery tray and the
main module of transmitter.
Software Revision Number: On both receiver and transmitter the software
revision number is displayed on the LCD during the start up sequence or can
be found in the “About” section of the user menu.
2 Service & Support
Service & Support
1 Model & Serial Number

Page 6 of 90
2 Service & Support
2.2 Distributors and Service Centers Closest to You:
United Kingdom
Free Phone: [phone]
Vivax-Metrotech Ltd.
Unit 18-19, Woodside Road,
South Marston Industrial Estate,
Swindon, SN3 4WA, UK
Website : www.vivax-metrotech.com
Email : [email protected]
Tel : [phone]
Europe
Megger
Seba Dynatronic
Mess-und Ortungstechnik GmbH
Dr.-Herbert-Iann-Str. 6,
96148 Baunach, Germany
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Website : www.megger.com
Email : [email protected]
China
World Headquarters, United State of America
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]
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]
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]
Central/South America and the Caribbean
Ventas para América Latina
3251 Olcott Street,
Santa Clara, CA 95054, USA
Website : www.vivax-metrotech.com
T/Free : 800-624-6210
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Email : [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]
Leidi Utility Supply (Shanghai ) Ltd.
No. 780, Tianshan Rd,
Shanghai, China 200051
T/Free : 4006-206-719
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Website : www.leidi.cn
Email : [email protected]

Page 7 of 90
3.1 vLocPro2 Receiver
The vLocPro2 is a Precision Location System designed to meet the needs of Utility Companies
and their contractors. The following describes the features and use of the receiver:
3 vLocPro2 Receiver
vLocPro2 Receiver
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Optional Bluetooth Module
Pushbutton & Display
Carbon Fiber Reinforced Antenna
Assembly
Accessory & Charging Sockets
USB Memory Stick Data Transfer,
active on some models
Charging Socket
Mini USB Port Data Transfer and
Software Upgrade
Accessories Port
Model# & Serial#
AA Battery Pack/Rechargeable Battery
Pack

Page 8 of 90
3.2 Charging the Receiver Batteries
The vLoc series 2 can be used with either alkaline batteries or it can be supplied with an
interchangeable rechargeable battery pack.
When alkaline battery is used, Icon A will appear on the screen. When the rechargeable battery
pack is used, Icon B will be displayed.
In both cases, the number of bars illuminated within the battery icon indicates the amount of
charge remaining.
Rechargeable batteries are supplied with a mains charger. This is specic 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, rst make sure the pack is inserted in the receiver battery
compartment as charging is done inside the receiver.
Connect the charger to the charging socket of the receiver. Connect 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 specic to the batteries. Only use the charger that is appropriate for the
batteries in the product. If in doubt, call Vivax-Metrotech Customer Service.
Failure to use the appropriate charger could result in damage to the battery
pack, locator and in extreme cases cause re.
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 always 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 re, or get wet.
3 vLocPro2 Receiver

Page 9 of 90
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Digital Display of Signal Response
Loudspeaker Status
Bluetooth and GPS Signal Quality
Alkaline/Rechargeable Battery Status
Peak Signal Indication
Frequency
Locate Mode Select
Gain Control (increase gain)
Information Depth/Current Measurement
Frequency Select
Gain Control (reduce gain)
On/Off Control
Compass (line direction indicator)
Left vs Right Indication
dB Gain Setting
Analogue Display of Signal Response
Continuous Depth/Current
Locate Mode icon
(Peak, Null, Sonde, Broad, Peak Arrows)
3.3 vLocPro2 Receiver Main Display
The vLocPro2 has several display options – the display shown below is representative of the
types of display and icons used.
Note: Bluetooth function is available in vLoc receivers with Bluetooth module only.
3 vLocPro2 Receiver

Page 10 of 90
3.4 vLocPro2 Receiver Screen Shots
vLocPro2 Receiver Menus (Actual menu may differ)
The vLocPro2 is a Precision Location System designed to meet the needs of Utility Companies
and their contractors. The following describes the features and use of the receiver.
Main Display Setup Menu – Frequencies
Main Menu
Depth & Current
Measurement,
Log and GPS
Frequencies selected here
are the only ones displayed
in the frequency box on the
Main Display
3 vLocPro2 Receiver

Page 11 of 90
3.5 Locating Mode (Response)
The vLocPro2 receiver has four antennas, and these can be toggled through different
congurations (modes) to provide different responses to the signals radiating from the buried
pipes and cables. The modes are:
3.5.1 Peak Response Mode
This uses the two horizontal antennas and provides a “Peak” or
maximum signal response over the center of the radiated signal
from the buried line. The compass (line direction indicator) shows
the direction of the cable (available in Active modes). The color of
the compass (line direction indicator) changed from clear to blue
when the receiver is in line with the buried line.
This is the most accurate of the locating modes as both antennas
are used to provide a clearly identifiable “Peak”. In the “Peak”
mode, a “Peak signal” indicator helps to clarify the position of the
“Peak”. This shows the last “Peak” located for a few seconds,
enabling the user to return to that position quickly.
3.5.2 Broad Peak Mode
This uses a single horizontal antenna and provides a “Peak” or
maximum signal response over the center of the radiated signal
from the buried line. The compass (line direction indicator) shows
the direction of the cable (available in Active modes). The color of
the compass (line direction indicator) changed from clear to blue
when the receiver is in line with the buried line.
This is less accurate than the twin horizontal antenna “Peak” mode
– but is useful in some particular situations. For pinpointing the line,
the “Peak” mode should be used.
Compass
(line direction indicator)
3 vLocPro2 Receiver
Compass
(line direction indicator)

Page 12 of 90
3.5.3 Null Mode
This uses vertical antennas, and provides a minimum or “Null”
response over the center of the radiated signal from the buried line.
The compass (line direction indicator) shows the direction of the
cable (available in Active modes). The color of the compass (line
direction indicator) changed from clear to blue when the receiver is
in line with the buried line.
Some users prefer the null response; it works well in uncongested
areas, but is more prone to inaccuracies due to distortion of the
radiated signal in congested areas.
Left/right indication arrows are also displayed when in “Null” mode.
The arrows indicate the direction to move the receiver to locate the
position of the buried line.
3.5.4 Peak with Arrows Response Mode
This uses the two horizontal antennas and provides a “Peak” or
maximum signal response over the center of the radiated signal from the
buried line. The compass (line direction indicator) shows the direction
of the cable (available in Active modes). The color of the compass (line
direction indicator) changed from clear to blue when the receiver is in
line with the buried line.
This is the most accurate of the locating modes as both antennas are
used to provide a clearly identiable “Peak”. In the “Peak” mode, a “Peak
signal” indicator helps to clarify the position of the “Peak”. This shows the
last “Peak” located for a few seconds, enabling the user to return to that
position quickly.
Left/Right arrows also guide the user to the line. However, it should be
noted that the arrows use the Null antenna to resolve which arrows are
activated. The null antenna is not as accurate in distorted elds as the
peak antennas. Therefore, when pinpointing, use the peak bargraph to
determine the position of the line.
Compass
(line direction indicator)
3 vLocPro2 Receiver
Compass
(line direction indicator)

Page 13 of 90
Note
If the arrows indicated a different position for the cable than the
peak bargraph position, this indicates the possibility of a distorted
eld. Check by taking a depth reading on the ground and then lift
the cable locator a known distance such as 1m (3ft). If the depth
does not increase by this amount it conrms a distorted eld and
the data should be treated with caution.
3.5.5 Sonde Mode
Sonde mode uses the antennas in a “Peak” conguration. An ICON
on the display indicates if the receiver is in Sonde mode.
A Sonde is a small transmitting coil that is powered by its own
internal battery, or by an external transmitter.
Due to its construction, a Sonde gives a different “Peak” pattern
– when locating along the direction of the Sonde – instead of the
usual single “Peak”, the Sonde provides three distinct peaks –
a small “Peak” – a large “Peak” – a small “Peak”. The Sonde is
located under the center of the large “Peak” when located across
the direction of the Sonde and it gives the conventional peak
response. Note that the Line Indicator points across the line of
the Sonde when directly over it and the color of the compass (line
direction indicator) change from clear to blue.
The vLocPro2 receiver must be used in a different orientation
when locating a Sonde – due to the way the signal from the Sonde
radiates. With the front of the receiver pointing across suspected
direction of the Sonde – pinpoint forward and backward (across
the Sonde) and then move along the line of the Sonde until the
maximum peak is located (in other words rotate the receiver 90
degrees from the orientation normally used when locating pipes
and cables).
A Sonde is typically used for locating non metallic pipes or ducts,
and the camera end of a sewer inspection camera. Low frequency
versions (512 Hz/640 Hz) can transmit through some metallic pipes
such as cast iron pipes – which are why they are frequently used
with sewer inspection cameras.
For using the compass (line direction indicator) feature to locate
Sondes, please refer to 9.1.3.
Compass
(line direction indicator)
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3.6 Audio
The visual display is also accompanied by an audio response. The output level (volume) of
this response is set by entering the “Setup Menu”. Press and hold “i” pushbutton for 2 seconds
to enter setup menu. The setup display defaults to volume. Use the “M” pushbutton to toggle
through the available options (Off – Low – Med – High). Press the “i” pushbutton again to exit
the setup menu. As the loudspeaker uses a signicant amount of power, using lower volume can
make the battery life of the receiver last longer.
3.7 Sensitivity Control
In manual modes, “+” and “-” pushbuttons are provided to increase or reduce the sensitivity of the
receiver. If the bar graph moves towards the minimum or maximum a single touch of the opposite
pushbutton returns it to approximately 50% deection. Holding down or repeated pushing of the “+”
or “-” pushbuttons increments/decrements the gain.
3.8 Frequency Selection
The vLocPro2 receiver is capable of locating a large number of frequencies or frequency
combinations. A list of these frequencies can be accessed using the setup menu. Most of these
frequencies listed – you will never use – the setup menu allows you to select the frequencies you
wish to use regularly. The frequency select pushbutton on the main receiver pad is used to toggle
through the frequencies dened using the setup menu. The operating frequency will be shown
at the lower right side of the display. You can change this selection at any time using the setup
menu.
The initial frequencies set at the time the unit is supplied are “Power”, “Radio” and the frequencies
used by the transmitter purchased. See the transmitter section for suggestions of which frequency
is best suited to specic applications.
3 vLocPro2 Receiver