Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator • 1
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Magna-Trak® Series
Magnetic Locator
MT200 • MT202
2 • Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator
Thank you for purchasing the Magna-Trak ® Magnetic Locator. Please read this manual
thoroughly before operation.
CONTENTS
1. Introduction .............................................................................................................. 2
2. Theory of Operation ................................................................................................ 3
3. Features...................................................................................................................... 5
4. Basic Operation and Description .......................................................................... 6
4.1 Power On/Off Switches ............................................................................................... 6
4.2 Volume and Sensitivity Control Knobs ....................................................................... 6
4.3 Speaker ......................................................................................................................... 6
4.4LCD Visual Display ........................................................................................................ 7
4.5Erase Button ................................................................................................................ 7
5. Battery Replacement .............................................................................................. 8
6. Field Operation ......................................................................................................... 9
6.1Water Locations ........................................................................................................... 9
6.2 Locating Near a Steel Fence ....................................................................................... 9
6.3 Searching Under An Unattended Vehicle .................................................................. 9
7. Signal Response ........................................................................................................ 9
7.1 Typical Signal Responses ........................................................................................... 11
8. Specifications ............................................................................................................ 4
9. Warranty & Service .................................................................................................. 4
Copyright© 2002-2004 CST/berger. All rights reserved
The information contained herein is proprietary information of CST/berger, and is subject to change without notice.
This document shall not be copied or otherwise reproduced without CST/berger's written consent.
1. INTRODUCTION
The Magna-Trak 200® Series magnetic locator is a flux-gate type of magnetometer
which incorporates a unique patented technology that enables the factory to balance
the magnetic ≠sensing coils to a finite condition. This patented method of magnetic
balancing is advanced in the state of the technology.
The Magna-Trak 200® Series implements
“peak response” over ≠ferromagnetic objects by yielding an increasing audio signal as
the object is approached and passed over.
This instrument is the product of many years of experience and service provided by
CST to the industry.
This Owner’s Instruction Manual covers the operation of both the MT-200 and MT-202
magnetic locators. The primary difference between both locators is the Erase feature
available only on the MT-202 model.
Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator • 3
2. THEORY OF OPERATION
The locator finds ferromagnetic objects by sensing the magnetic field radiated by the
object. The locator contains two sensor coil assemblies that are precisely spaced and
electronically balanced to achieve a near magnetically-balanced ≠operating condition.
In a uniform magnetic field, such as the earth’s field, the two sensor coils maintain a
magnetically-balanced status, because both of the coils experience the same
magnetic lines of force. However, when a ferromagnetic object is ≠approached, the
field strength and angle of the magnetic lines upon each sensor is different. This
difference, although minute, is enough to offset the critical balance and produce an
audible ≠indicating signal (Fig. 1).
When no ferromagnetic objects are present, the speaker emits a steady low
frequency tone. As the object is approached, the audio frequency increases until the
center of the object is ≠directly beneath the locator’s lower tip sensor. The frequency
peaks and then decreases as the object is passed. The peak indicates the exact
location of the object.
Nonferrous objects do not affect the locator. Objects made of brass, aluminum,
copper, etc. are ignored.
Fig. 1
Sensor coils unbalanced by magnetic field of iron stake.
4 • Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator
8. SPECIFICATIONS
Power: Six “AA” (11⁄2 volt) batteries
Battery life: 100 hours of intermittent operation (alkaline batteries)
Output: Powerful magnetic speaker with molded cover to
protect from direct contact.
LCD Display: Numeric digital, analog Bar-graph, power line indicator
and low battery indicator feature
Weight: Approximately 2.5 lbs. with batteries
Operating temperature: 0°F to 120°F (-18°C to 49°C)
Length: 423⁄4 inches (108.6 cm)
Construction: High-impact water resistant plastic, epoxy painted.
Aluminum sensor tube waterproof to just under the
plastic case.
Patent: United States #4,439,732.
Nominal Sensor: 20 inches (50.8 cm)
Specifications subject to change without notice.
9. WARRANTY
The Magna-Trak magnetic locator is warranted to be free from defects in materials
and workmanship for a period of seven years after the delivery of the product to
the original user. Our liability under this warranty is limited to replacing any defective
parts, adjusting and servicing any instrument or, at the company’s option, replacement of the instrument returned by the original user, transportation charges prepaid,
to the company. If the malfunction has been caused by misuse or abnormal conditions of operation, repairs will be billed to the user, with a cost estimate submitted
prior to commencing repair work.
Batteries and the battery holder are not covered by this warranty.
All Magna-Trak locators repaired out of warranty carry a warranty on replaced parts
for a period of 90 days.
Service
If your magnetic locator needs service, you may return it to the dealer from which it
was purchased or send it, transportation prepaid, directly to:
CST
255 W. Fleming Street
Watseka, IL 60970 USA
Include model number, serial number, proof and date of purchase, your address and
phone, and a written description of the problem encountered with the instrument
with the return of the locator.
Magna-Trak made in Watseka, Illinois, USA
Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator • 5
3. FEATURES
• Rugged high-impact plastic enclosure with aluminum sensor pole
• Powerful magnetic speaker with molded cover to protect speaker from direct
contact of water and dust
• Lightweight, comfortably balanced for easy handling
• Six “AA” (11⁄2 volt) battery operation; ±100 hr battery life
• Quick-access battery compartment
• Deep tone audio under search conditions; signals “peak” over magnetic objects
• Full depth capability
•Includes padded carrying case with shoulder strap or hard case
•Instrument Control Panel features LCD visual display and water-repellant push
button switch operation:
LCD Visual Display includes a two-digit numeric signal indicator, an expanding
analog bar graph signal indicator, battery indicator, and “Caution: Power Line”
alert flashing indicator. Displays “ferrous” model operation.
“ERASE” button (Model MT202)– Interferences such as a nearby fence are
“Virtually erased” which enhances the detection of the target of interest.
Volume Increase
Battery Indicator
Cover
Digital Signal Indicator
Analog Bargraph
Volume Decrease
Sensitivity
Indicator
Volume Indicator
Erase Button
(MT202 Only)
Sensitivity
Increase
Speaker
Digital Warning
Sensitivity
Decrease
Power Switch
Battery Compartment Cover
Located on Underside of Case
Battery Compartment Cover
(Cover Removed - Batteries Shown)
Six "AA" Batteries
Observe the Battery
Polarity Labels Affixed
Inside Compartment
6 • Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator
4. BASIC OPERATION AND DESCRIPTION
4.1 Power On/Off Switches
Press “ON” once to activate the locator circuitry. Press again to turn the battery
power off.
4.2 Volume and Sensitivity Control
Sensitivity Setting: The sensitivity or depth range can be varied using the “UP”
and”“Down” buttons while observing the associated bar graph and two-digit numeric
display. When the “UP” or “Down” buttons are pressed, the two-digit numeric display
changes from a signal level indication to a sensitivity level indication. The two-digit
numeric display can be incremented or decremented by one by pressing and
releasing the “UP” or “Down” button. If the”“UP” or “Down” button is pressed and
held, the two-digit numeric display will continue to increment or decrement until the
button is released. The associated bar graph will give a coarse indication of sensitivity
level.
1-bar, lowest sensitivity: 0-14 numeric
2-bars, higher sensitivity: 15-30 numeric
3-bars, next higher sensitivity: 31-45 numeric
4-bars, highest sensitivity: 46-99 numeric
The microcontroller will remember and return to the last sensitivity level selected the
next time the instrument is placed the “ON” position. The optimal setting is
determined by each particular application.
Volume Setting: The volume can be varied using the “UP” and”“Down” buttons while
observing the associated bar graph and two-digit numeric display. When the “UP” or
“Down” buttons are pressed, the two-digit numeric display changes from a signal
level indication to a volume level indication. The two-digit numeric display can be
incremented or decremented by one by pressing and releasing the “UP” or “Down”
button. If the”“UP” or “Down” button is pressed and held, the two-digit numeric
display will continue to increment or decrement until the button is released. The
associated bar graph will give a coarse indication of volume level.
1-bar, lowest sound: 0-33 numeric
2-bars, quieter tone: 34-48 numeric
3-bars, below maximum: 49-73 numeric
4-bars, maximum sound: 74-99 numeric
4.3 Speaker
When no ferrous metal is present, the audio sound heard will be a low frequency
tone. As ferrous metals are ≠approached, the audio tone will increase.
Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator • 7
4.4 LCD Visual Display
Several visual display functions, provided for ease of operation, are defined below:
Digital Signal Indicator
A two digit numeric display shows the signal level as related to the audio ≠signal
response being heard from the speaker. At the lowest signal level, when no ferrous
metal is present, a small number will be viewed (between “0” and”“5”). As metal is
approached, the numbers will increase, reaching “99” at its maximum peak. Deeply
buried objects or lower sensitivity”≠levels will yield a lower peak number to aid in
≠pinpointing the object. A “+” in front of the two-digit numeric display indicates
north polarity field detected from object. A “-” in front of the two-digit numeric
display indicates south polarity field detected from object.
Analog Bar-Graph Signal Indicator
The bar graph ≠display expands outward from the center “oval” as related to the
audio”≠signal response being heard from the speaker. The signal level bar graph
expanding right indicates north polarity field detected from object. The signal level
bar graph expanding left indicates south polarity field detected from object.
Power Line Indicator Feature
The electromagnetic fields radiated from buried
or overhead power lines are picked up by the
sensitive electronic circuitry and internally
transformed into a visually flashing indicator in
the display window as shown.(Fig. 2).
The distance or detection range from the cables
where the locator responds depends on the
energy being carried by the electrical conductors.
The higher the energy, the greater the distance
the locator will respond to it. If the cables are
dead (no electrical connection or energy
transfer), then no visual indication will appear.
When the locator is turned ON, this feature is
activated immediately. This feature only responds
to 50 or 60Hz power line frequencies and not to
telephone or TV cables. This feature is intended as
an aid only and not to be used for locating or
pinpointing electrical cables.
The magnetic detection operation and
performance of the magnetic locator are
completely independent from the power line
indicator feature.
4.5 Erase Button
This is an optional button that is primarily used in locations where large metal objects
normally interfere with the desired operation of magnetic locators. Cyclone fences,
metal buildings, vehicles and other large magnetic objects can be electronically
erased with this button.
The operation of this feature is best defined by explaining the typical locator without
this feature. For example, typical magnetic locators will normally yield a screaming
audio tone when they are being operated in close proximity to a metal fence. The
magnetic field from this fence will usually override the signal being sought from the
Fig. 2
8 • Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator
buried object in search of. The only option is to reduce the sensitivity until the
interference from the fence is minimized. However, the locator’s sensitivity to the
buried object is also minimized and usually undetectable.
The Magna-Trak 202 and its “Erase” feature solves this problem by providing an Erase
Button; simply press this button when an object is interfering with the object of
interest.
The sensitivity is automatically adjusted to enhance the detection of the object of
interest. As the ferrous properties of the interfering object changes, the ERASE
button can simply be pressed again to either increase or decrease sensitivity to
enhance the detection of the object of interest.
Pressing the ERASE button adjusts the sensitivity level to 60. If the interfering object
causes the sensitivity reading to approach 99, pressing the button will reduce
sensitivity to a reading of 60. If the sensitivity reading drops below 60, pressing the
button will increase sensitivity to 60.
5. BATTERY REPLACEMENT & TIPS
Battery Status Indicator - The battery condition is displayed with a bar-graph. As
the battery loses power, the bar graph displays less segments. Four levels of battery
condition are displayed as follows:
3-bars, full battery voltage
2-bars, sufficient battery power remains
1-bar, sufficient battery power remains, but they are approaching a
replacement condition
0-bars, batteries are exhausted. Replace batteries as soon as possible.
Note: When there is no active display icons, no sound or basic operation has ceased-
Batteries are dead and must be replaced immediately.
Replace the batteries as follows:
1: Turn the power off.
2: Turn the locator over, so battery compartment is facing up.
3: Squeeze the cover clip to release the compartment cover and open. Turn locator
over, so the battery compartment is facing down.
4: Place hand over the opening and tap the case...the battery pack will drop out into
your hand. Replace all of the batteries with new AA cells. Observe polarity markings.
5: Place the battery pack into the battery compartment with the two battery snaps
facing down. Press the pack into position. Press the cover down, until you hear a
‘click’ sound... the cover is securely in place...the locator is ready to use.
NOTE: Never attempt to replace batteries selectively. Always replace all six cells at the
same time. Preferably use Alkaline cells for longer operating and storage life. Dead
batteries must be removed or replaced immediately.
Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator • 9
6.1 Water Locations
The pole section of the locator can be
submerged into water, up to just
under the plastic case (Fig. 5).
6.2 Locating Near a Steel Fence
Approach the fence and stop at the
distance at which you wish to begin
your search. While holding the locator
in a vertical position (Fig. 6), press and
release the “erase” button on the membrane panel.
Begin sweeping the locator side to side parallel to the
fence. As you move toward or away from the fence
during the sweeping motion, at some point you may
have to press the “erase” button again.
Continue this process throughout the search. The need
to reactivate the “erase” circuitry depends on the
proximity from the fence and the magnetism of the
fence itself.
6.3 Searching Under an Unattended Vehicle
In the event you must search under an parked
vehicle that is unattended, you can simply slide the
sensor pole under the vehicle and activate the
“erase” feature. Slide the sensor pole side to side until you
locate the target.
6. FIELD OPERATION
The recommended search
position is a 45° angle from the
earth’s surface. Scan the
locator pole from side-to-side
in a slow sweeping motion
while walking in a steady
direction. Maintain a consistent
height above the ground
during the side-to-side
sweeping motion.
Once the object being searched is located, pinpointing the’≠object’s location can be
accomplished by holding the locator vertically and sweeping it in an “X” pattern until
the absolute signal peak is found (Fig. 4). The audio sound and visual LCD ≠display will
provide the pinpointing results.
Please note that your magnetic locator is not only sensitive to buried ferrous objects,
but also to items in your possession. Ferrous objects such as steel tipped shoes, a
pocket knife, some wrist watches, key chains or other objects containing ferrous
material can cause false signals during your search.
The locator is not affected by the presence of nonferrous ≠objects, such as copper,
aluminum pull tabs or foil, and other forms of trash that may be present in the
ground. Snow, ice, water, wood, plastic, concrete, stones, and the ground itself have
no effect on the performance of the locator.
Fig. 4
Locator's Electrical Response
Representation
Physical "X" Motion
Shown
Fig. 5
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10 • Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator
7. SIGNAL RESPONSE
Figure 7 shows audio and LCD visual signal response to:
1: no object,
2: one small deeper metal target, and
3: a second larger and shallower metal object.
The LCD display indicates both the numeric ≠digital and analog bar-graph response as
the locator passes over the ground.
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Fig. 7
Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator • 11
Signal Response
Signal Response
7.1 Typical Signal Responses
The metal handles on
the septic tank cover
will provide a usable
signal to determine the
location of the actual
cover (Fig. 8).
Large metal objects
may cause double
signals as indicated
(Fig. 9).
The center of the
cover is found by
sweeping the ≠locator
back and forth to
create a ring pattern
≠response. The center
null will designate the
cover’s center.
The joints, elbows and
ends of iron pipes will
create the strongest
≠signals (Fig. 10). Hold
the locator in a vertical
≠position while
searching to produce
the best results.
Fig. 8
Fig. 10
Sewer Cover
Signal Response
Fig. 9
12 • Magna-Trak 200 Series Magnetic Locator
767441
255 W. Fleming Street
Watseka IL 60970 USA
©2004 CST/berger Z93-19MT200 (0404) CP
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