Record serial numbers and date of purchase in spaces provided. Unit serial number is located as shown.
ss1129h.eps
Item
date of purchase:
receiver serial number:
transmitter serial number:
accessory model & serial number:
accessory model & serial number:
accessory model & serial number:
CMW
250R/T Operator’s ManualOverview - 3
Intended Use
Intended Use
The system can be configured to locate pipe and cable or trace non-metallic pipe or conduit.
The 250R receiver is configured to operate in twin peak mode with one active frequency (33 kHz) as well
as radio, 50P or 60P and 50S or 60S.
The 250T transmitter places signals on target li nes and is used with 250R unit s. It is configured to send 33
kHz frequency signals. It places a signal on the line through either direct connection, induction clamping, or
broadcast modes.
The unit is designed for operation in temperatures typically experienced in earth moving and construction
work environments. Use in any other way is considered contrary to the intended use. The 250 system
should be operated only by persons familiar with its particular characteristics and acquainted with the
relevant safety procedures. The system should be serviced only by Ditch Witch repair centers.
About This Manual
This manual contains information for the proper use of this equipment. Cross references such as “See
page 50” will direct you to det ailed procedures.
Bulleted Lists
Bulleted lists provide helpful or important information or contain procedures that do not have to be
performed in a specific order.
Numbered Lists
Numbered lists contain illustration callouts or list steps that must be performed in order.
“Continued” Indicators
indicates that a procedure is continued on the next page.
CMW
Overview - 4250R/T Operator’s Manual
CMW
250R/T Operator’sManualForeword - 5
Foreword
This manual is an important part of your equipment. It provides safety information and operation
instructions to help you use and maintain your Ditch Witch equipment.
Read this manual before using your equipment. Keep it with the equipmen t at all times for future reference.
If you sell your equipment, be sure to give this manual to the new owner.
If you need a replacement copy, contact your Ditch Witch. If you need assistance in locating a dealer, visit
our website at www.ditchwitch.com or write to the following address:
The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
Attn: Marketing Department
PO Box 66
Perry, OK 73077-0066
USA
The descriptions and specifications in this manual are subject to change without notice. The Charles
Machine Works, Inc. reserves the right to improve equipment. Some product improvements may have
taken place after this manual was publishe d. For the latest information on Ditch Witch equipment, see your
Ditch Witch dealer.
Thank you for buying and using Ditch Witch equipment.
CMW
Foreword - 6250R/T Operator’s Manual
250R/T
Operator’s Manual
Issue number 1.0/OM-10/07
Part number 053-1189
Copyright 2007
by The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
, Ditch Witch, CMW, AutoCrowd, Modularmatic, Jet Trac, Roto Witch, Subsite,
Fluid Miser, Perma-Soil, Power Pipe, Super Witch, Super Witch II, Pierce Airrow, The Underground, and
The Underground Authority Worldwide are registered trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
Zahn and InterChange are pending trademarks of The Charles Machine Works, Inc.
CMW
250R/T Operator’s ManualContents - 7
Content s
Overview
machine serial number, information about the type of work this machine is designed
to perform, basic machine components, and how to use this manual
Foreword
part number, revision level, and publication date of this manual, and factory contact
information
Safety
machine safety alerts and emergency procedures
Controls
machine controls and how to use them
Locate
procedures for locating active, passive and beacon signals
Locating Concepts
basic information for locating active, passive and beacon signals
Service
service intervals and instructions for this machine
1
5
9
13
21
33
37
Specifications
machine specifications including weights, measurements and power rating
Support
the warranty policy for this machine, and procedures for obtaining warranty
consideration and training
•Do not operate equipment unless you have completed proper training and have r ead and understood
the operator’s manual.
•Before operation, ensure the equipment is in proper working order and is not damaged. Any
transmitter leads should be checked for damage.
Safety Alert Classifications
These classifications and the icons defined on the following pages work together to alert you to situations
which could be harmful to you, jobsite bystanders or your equipment. When you see these words and
icons in the book or on the unit, carefully read and follow all instructions. YOUR SAFETY IS AT STAKE.
Watch for the three safety alert levels: DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION. Learn what each level
means.
indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.
indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury.
Watch for two other words: NOTICE and IMPORTANT.NOTICE can keep you from doing something that might damage the unit or someone's property. It can also
alert you against unsafe practices.
IMPORTANT can help you do a better job or make your job easier in some way.
CMW
250R/T Operator’s ManualSafety - 11
Safety Alerts
Safety Alerts
Electric shock. The connection leads may give off an electric shock when plugged into the
transmitter. Avoid touching the metal ends of clips when the transmitter is switched on.
NOTICE:
•Electric shock or equipment damage can result if transmitter is connected to live electrical conductors.
Observe all company and national safety procedures.
•Turn off transmitter when connecting or moving ground stake.
•Always comply with company and national safety requirements. Use correct equipment and working
methods. Use and maintain proper safety equipment.
Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur.
Follow directions carefully .
NOTICE: Do not use equipment in areas where flammable gases may be present or near to
radio-controlled blasting operations.
Incorrect procedures could result in death, injury, or property damage.
Learn to use equipment correctly.
NOTICE: Some buried utilities do not radiate a detectable signal . Always continue checking
during excavation and ensure compliance with HS(G)47.
IMPORTANT: Ditch Witch receivers and transmitters are calibrated to tolerances under strict
environmental conditions. Under normal daily use, Ditch Witch equipment does not require an annual
calibration. A daily functional check is recommended and any units which have been damaged or do not
appear to perform to original factory specifications should be returned to the manufacturer or authorized
repair center for calibration check or repair.
Follow setup procedures for the type of locating you will be doing: direct connection, induction clamp, or
broadcast induction. Always check receiver battery level at startup. See “Controls” on page 13.
Direct Connection
Electric shock. The connection leads may give off an electric shock when plugged into
the transmitter. Avoid touching the metal ends of clips when the transmitter is switched on.
NOTICE:
•Electric shock or equipment damage can result if transmitter is connected to live electrical
conductors. Observe all company and national safety procedures.
•Turn off transmitter when connecting or moving ground stake.
•Always comply with company and national safety requirements. Use correct equipment and wo rking
methods. Use and maintain proper safety equipment.
Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur.
Follow directions carefully.
Do not use equipment in areas where flammable gases may be present or near to radio-
controlled blasting operations.
To set up transmitter for direct connection:
123
ss0014c-d.eps
1. Carefully push ground stake (3) into ground.
2. Plug cable into transmitter (2).
3. Connect black lead to ground stake.
4. Connect red lead to line (1).
5. Turn on transmitter.
CMW
250R/T Operator’s ManualLocate - 23
Active Location
Induction Clamp
Electric shock. The connection leads may give off an electric shock when plugged into
the transmitter. Avoid touching the metal ends of clips when the transmitter is switched on.
NOTICE:
•Electric shock or equipment damage can result if transmitter is connected to live electrical
conductors. Observe all company and national safety procedures.
•Turn off transmitter when connecting or moving ground stake.
•Always comply with company and national safety requirements. Use correct equipment and wo rking
methods. Use and maintain proper safety equipment.
Explosion possible. Serious injury or equipment damage could occur.
Follow directions carefully.
Do not use equipment in areas where flammable gases may be present or near to radio-
controlled blasting operations.
To set up transmitter for use with induction
clamp:
1. Plug cable into transmitter.
2. Place clamp around line.
3. Turn on transmitter.
CMW
Locate - 24 250R/T Operator’s Manual
Active Location
Broadcast Induction
To set up transmitter for broadcast induction:
1. Remove cable, stake, clamp and any other
metal objects from transmitter.
2. Place transmitter parallel to and directly
above suspected line, as shown.
Note: Transmitter must be parallel to
object, as shown, in order to produce
the best signal.
3. Turn on transmitter.
CMW
250R/T Operator’s ManualLocate - 25
Active Location
Technique
7.5 m
25 ft
ss1131h.eps
IMPORTANT: Follow steps 1-3 for all types of active location. For reference, the illustration above
shows direct connection method. If using broadcast ind uctio n, ensure that tran smitter is in line with and
above suspected line, as shown on previous page.
1. Walk in an arc approximately 25’ (7.5 m) around transmitter.
2. Hold the receiver as shown.
3. Identify location of line by finding the spot with the best signal response.
CMW
Locate - 26 250R/T Operator’s Manual
Active Location
4. Rotate the receiver to determine which
direction the line runs.
IMPORTANT: Receiver indicates the
best signal when the handle is
perpendicular to the target line.
5. Set receiver on the ground.
6. Press depth button when the line has been
located.
IMPORTANT: When estimating depth
for pipe, depth shown is to the center
of the pipe.
7. Continue to trace the line and take depth
estimates every few paces.
8. Retrace the line and mark with appropriate flags or paint.
Mark the Line
Sweep, focus, and trace all detected signals in the area. Mark line paths with colored paint or flags.
CMW
250R/T Operator’s ManualLocate - 27
Active Location
Special Situations
SituationWhat to try
Signal is lost.Walk in a circle to detect a tee or bend in the line.
Signal varies from low to high and is
unstable.
You are near a power line and are
receiving interference.
Receiver does not function properly.Receiver gain could be set too high or low. Lower or raise
Target line has connections to other lines.Disconnect target line from other lines.
Signal is transferring to other lines.•Lower the power level.
Mark as a hand-dig area.
Sweep the area in power mode. If receiver gives a strong
signal response, a power line is interfering with transmitter
signal.
gain to locate the line. See “Controls” on page 13. Also
ensure that receiver is set to the correct mode.
•Use direct connection, if possible, or use induction
clamp.
•Move the ground stake away from the target line and
away from other buried lines.
•Apply signal at the point where the target line is
farthest from the other lines.
CMW
Locate - 28 250R/T Operator’s Manual
Passive Location
Passive Location
Setup
Turn on receiver and choose power or radio frequency. Always check receiver battery level at startup.
NOTICE: Lines with no AC current flowing through them are hard to detect and may be hazardous
because they may still have voltage potential. To locate, turn on an appliance to cause current to flow
and use active search methods.
Technique
Survey the Site
Make a visual check of the site for signs of buried lines such as:
•recent trenching
•buried line markers
•overhead lines that run down pole and underground
•gas meters
•valve sights
•drains or manhole covers
Sweep the Site
Search the site by walking a grid pattern while
holding receiver close to the ground.
NOTICE: Keep receiver vertical.
CMW
ss1076a-d.eps
250R/T Operator’s ManualLocate - 29
Passive Location
Focus the Signal
Move receiver over detected signal to find best signal response. Rotate receiver until signal is strongest.
Best signal indicates line direction.
NOTICE: Keep receiver level.
T race the Line
Walk along the suspected path while moving
the receiver from side to side across the area.
IMPORTANT: Keep receiver handle
perpendicular to the suspected line path.
CMW
Locate - 30 250R/T Operator’s Manual
Passive Location
Mark the Line
Sweep, focus, and trace all detected signals in the area. Mark line paths with colored paint or flags. See
the chart below for standard color markings for line locations.
Special Situations
SituationWhat to try
Signal is lost.Walk in a circle to detect a tee or bend in the line.
Signal varies from low to high and is
unstable.
Receiver does not function properly.Receiver gain could be set too high or low. Lower or raise
Check the transmitter connection. If connection is good
and signal is still unstable, mark as a hand-dig area.
gain to locate the line. See “Controls” on page 13.
CMW
250R/T Operator’s ManualLocate - 31
Beacon (Sonde) Location
Beacon (Sonde) Location
Trace metallic or non-metallic pipes or conduits by locating and following a beacon (sonde) signal.
IMPORTANT: Large metal objects and other signals (such as railroad signals or overhead power lines)
will distort signal.
Setup
To set up for beacon (sonde) location:
1. Follow instructions for installing beacon (sonde) battery.
2. Turn on receiver to ensure that beacon (sonde) is functioning properly.
3. Attach beacon (sonde) to plumber’s snake or flex rod.
Technique
1. Turn on receiver.
2. Set antenna to peak and frequency to beacon (sonde) mode.
3. Place beacon (sonde) into the pipe and move it down the pipe.
4. To locate beacon (sonde), circle over its approximate location in the pipe.
5. To identify the location of beacon (sonde), find the spot with the strongest signal response.
6. Rotate the receiver to determine which
direction beacon (sonde) runs.
IMPORTANT: Receiver indicates the
best signal when handle is parallel
with and directly over the beacon
(sonde).
7. Press the depth button.
NOTICE: When estimating depth with
a beacon (sonde) in nonmetallic pipe,
depth shown will be to the center of
the beacon (sonde), not to the top of
the pipe.
8. Continue to track beacon (sonde). Mark
pipe location with paint.
•Active signals are placed on a target line with a transmitter and detected by the receiver. As an option,
an active signal from a beacon (sonde) can also be detected by the receiver.
•Passive signals reside on the target line and are read by receiver.
Active
There are three ways to place active signals on a target line with a transmitter:
•Direct connection (preferred method) requires a connection to be made directly onto target line.
•Induction requires placing an optional induction clamp around target line.
•Broadcast method uses a built-in antenna to broadcast a signal onto lines near the transmitter.
Beacon (Sonde)
Beacon (sonde) signals allow metallic and non-metallic pipe tracing.
Passive
Power line signals can be detected passively without a transmitter.
CMW
250R/T Operator’s ManualLocating Concepts - 35
Mode
Mode
The 250R receiver has three available mode options.
ModeDescriptionNotes
PowerAllows receiver to trace live
power lines.
RadioAllows receiver to trace lines
that pick up and radiate very
low frequency (VLF) radio
waves.
TransmitterAllows receiver to trace lines
that have had a 33 kHz signal
placed on them by a
transmitter.
IMPORTANT: Current must be
flowing through the line.
Beacon (Sonde)Allows receiver to trace 33
kHz beacon (sonde) signals.
CMW
Locating Concepts - 36 250R/T Operator’s Manual
Common Signal Problems
Common Signal Problems
Distortions in the electromagnetic field around a line can affect location accuracy. Tees, bends, parallel
lines, crossing lines, or large metallic objects can distort signals.
IMPORTANT: If target depth and location are critical, confirm by hand-digging or vacuum excavation.
Learn to recognize the following kinds of distortion:
Shadows
Shadows, also called blind spots, often happen when a metallic object partially obstructs signal, or a signal
from a parallel line interferes with target signal.
False Signals
False signals describe situations where the receiver indicates a line location where there is no line. False
signals often happen when a line tees or bends, runs parallel to the target line, or crosses the target line.
IMPORTANT: Generally, the receiver shows less distortion in peak an tenna configuration.
Secondary (Ghost) Signals
A typical beacon (sonde) signal pattern shows a main signal and two weaker secondary signals. Identify
beacon location at the main signal. Familiarity with beacon signal patterns will lessen the effect of ghost
signals.
4. Check operation. If battery light is flashing
when unit is turned on, then one battery is
incorrectly installed or batteries are weak.
Transmitter Error Messages
Red LED with No Tone
If red LED flashes with no tone in direct connect or induction clamp mode, the unit has detected a short in
one of the leads or on the target line.
CMW
Service - 40250R/T Operator’s Manual
Receiver Error Messages
Receiver Error Messages
Three Dashes
If three dashes appear in the display when
pressing the depth button, one of the following
could be possible:
•The receiver is detecting a signal above it
and cannot estimate depth. This message
is usually caused by interfering signals. Try
relocating target signal.
•Line is too deep for depth estimate. Mark
as hand-dig area.
•Line is too shallow for depth estimate.
Select lowest usable transmitter power
level or lift receiver high enough to return
display to normal operation. Relocate line
and verify with null antenna.
Three Dots
If three dots appear in the display when
pressing the depth button, contact your
equipment dealer.
CMW
250R/T Operator’s ManualSpecifications - 41
250 Receiver
Specifications
250 Receiver
L
W
H
ss1127h.eps
DimensionsU.S.Metric
HHeight27.5”700 mm
LLength11.5”290 mm
WWidth4”100 mm
Weight5 lb2.3 kg
OperationU.S.Metric
Operating temperature range-4°F to 122°F-20°C to 50°C
Antenna configurations: twin peak
Audio output: speaker
LCD backlight: LED (green)
Batteries
Type: 6 C-cell alkaline
Life (intermittent use at 70°F/21°C): approximately 40 hours
Battery saver: unit shuts off after 5 minutes of inactivity
CMW
Specifications - 42250R/T Operator’s Manual
250 Transmitter
250 Transmitter
L
OUTPUT
OFF
POWER
ON/
W
H
300
TRANSMITTER
ss1128h.eps
DimensionsU.S.Metric
HHeight9.25”235 mm
LLength12.25”311 mm
WWidth4.5”1 1 4 mm
Weight5 lb2.3 kg
OperationU.S.Metric
Operating temperature range-4°F to 122°F-20°C to 50°C
Maximum power output: 1 watt
Standard operating mode: 33 kHz
Batteries
Type: 6 D-cell alkaline
Life (continuous use at low power level): approximately 150 hours
CMW
250R/T Operator’s ManualSpecifications - 43
System Operation
System Operation
Operating Modes and Frequencies
Active line: 33 kHz
Passive line (locate only): 50 Hz or 60 Hz
Beacon (Sonde) (locate/depth only): 33 kHz
Radio (locate only)
Locating Ranges
Lines15’4.6 m
Beacons (Sondes)10’3 m
Depth Estimate Tolerances*
Active line ±5%0.5-10’0.15-3 m
Active line ±10%10’ +3 m +
Beacon (Sonde) ±5%0.5-10’0.15-3 m
* Locators are calibrated to these tolerances under ideal test field conditions. Actual operating field
conditions may have signal distortions or may contain noise sources which result in depth range that is
less than specified.
CMW
Specifications - 44250R/T Operator’s Manual
System Operation
CMW
250R/T Series Operator’s ManualSupport - 45
Procedure
Support
Procedure
Notify your dealer immediately of any malfunction or failure of Ditch Witch equipment.
Always give model, serial number, and approximate date of your equipment purchase. This information
should be recorded and placed on file by the owner at the time of purchase.
Return damaged unit to dealer for inspection and warranty consideration if in warranty time frame.
All repairs must be done by an authorized Ditch Witch repair facility. Repairs done elsewhere will void
warranty consideration.
Resources
Publications
Contact your Ditch Witch dealer for publications and videos covering safety, operation, service, and repair
of your equipment.
Training
For information about on-site, individualized training, contact your Ditch Witch dealer.
CMW
Warranty - 46250R/T Series Operator’s Manual
Limited Product Warranty Policy
Warranty
Limited Product W arranty Policy
Warranty Periods
New Product
A twelve-month period starts on the date of delivery to the end user:
A six-month period starts on the date of delivery to the end user:
directional and locate beacons
A three-month period starts on the date of delivery to the end user:
accessories: cables, clamps, canoes, bags, and adapters
Used Product (Cosmetics)
A three-month warranty starts on the date of delivery to the end user on used and refurbished products
sold from Ditch Witch Electronics dealers. Used products are non-returnable.
Service and Repair
A one-month warranty on labor st art s on the date th e unit is repai red, and a three-mo nth warranty on parts
starts on the date the unit is repaired for all products.
Extended Warranty
The extended warranty may be purchased at the time the equipment is sold or anytime within the original
warranty period. The extension is for an additional twelve or twenty-four months, for a total coverage of
twenty-four to thirty-six months. Exclusions: All beacons and accessories.
CMW
250R/T Series Operator’s ManualWarranty - 47
Limited Product Warranty Policy
Details and Exclusions
•The warranty includes only Ditch Witch Electronics products and accessories that are manufactured
and distributed by Ditch Witch Electronics. The warranty compensates on defects in material or
workmanship.
•Defects will be determined through inspection by Ditch Witch Electronics or authorized repair centers.
Original purchaser must make the defective item available for inspection within 30 days of the date th e
part fails.
•The warranty is limited to replacement of the defective part. The replacement part may be new or
remanufactured. Repair and installation of defective part will be at no charge when product or item is
delivered to Ditch Witch Electronics or an authorized repair center . The product or item will be returned
at no charge for return freight.
•The warranty periods do not represent the useful life of Ditch Witch Electronics products and
accessories.
•If Ditch Witch Electronics products are purchased for commercial purposes, as defined by the
Commercial Code, no warranties extend beyond the specific terms set forth in this limited warranty. All
other provisions of this limited warranty apply, including the duties imposed.
•Ditch Witch Electronics products have been tested to deliver acceptable performance in most
conditions.
•This limited warranty applies to the original purchaser only. Some states or jurisdictions do not allow
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so abo ve limitation may not apply. This
limited warranty gives original purchaser specific rights that vary from state to state or jurisdiction to
jurisdiction.
•Each serial-numbered piece of equipment must be registered by the selling dealer to determine
warranty start date.
•When a registration is not received, the Ditch Witch Electronics shipping date is used to establish the
warranty period start date.
•Product inspection and estimates may require that the unit be disassembled and tested.
•Out-of-warranty inspection costs include labor accrued at the full labor rate plus return freight.
•Approved out-of-warranty repair costs include parts, labor accrued at full labor rate, plus return freight.
Revision F, September 2006
CMW
Warranty - 48250R/T Series Operator’s Manual
Limited Product Warranty Policy
CMW
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