Split-box Pipe and Cable Locator
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Energized or de-energized lines tracing
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Conductive or inductive coupling
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Peak and null detection capabilities
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Hand-held and lightweight
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Solid construction in a tough, plastic
housing
Split-box Pipe and Cable Locator
DESCRIPTION
The Split-box Pipe and Cable Locator is a hand-held
instrument in the classic “split-box” design, consisting
of a transmitter and a receiver. The instrument traces
underground conductive networks such as water and gas
mains, telephone, cable TV, and electric power cables. It
determines buried lines depth and locates underground
metallic masses such as valve caps and manhole covers.
Designed with patented super-inductive technology, the
Split-box Pipe and Cable Locator is lightweight, portable,
and easy to use. For easy transport, the instrument and
accessories are supplied with a protective tote bag.
APPLICATIONS
To locate and trace an underground metallic line, the line
is energized with a radio-frequency signal generated by the
transmitter and then detected by the receiver. Inductive
or conductive modes of operation are available.
The inductive operational mode does not require direct
mechanical line connection. The transmitter can energize a
buried line without the need to uncover it. Just place the
transmitter on the ground or pavement above the line
which, once induced with the transmitted signal,
retransmits the signal through the ground and air in a
pattern that corresponds to its path. The line carries the
signal several hundred yards depending on its depth, the
mineralization and conductivity of the soil, and the
transmitter power setting.
The conductive mode of operation requires the line to be
exposed so that a direct connection can be made.
Conductive energizing is preferred over inductive
energizing because it results in more highly defined signal
coupling. The signal generated does not spread to other
conductive lines in the vicinity of the traced line. Using a
ground rod with the direct connection increases the
energizing efficiency and, therefore, the length of line that
can be traced.
Two methods of receiving the transmitted signal are peak
detection and null detection. The method used depends
on the placement of the receiver. When held at a right
angle to the surface of the ground and moved back and
forth across the line to be traced, the receiver detects
peaks (maximum signals) when directly above the line.
When the receiver is held so its face is parallel to the
surface of the ground and moved back and forth across
the line, the detection of minimum signal or null (absence
of signal) indicates that the line is directly below.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
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Lightweight and portable — half the physical size of
Standard Split-Box Pipe and Cable Locator
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Virtually Indestructible — long lasting and can
withstand tough field environments
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Built-in mass locator — same Instrument can locate
cables, pipes, manhole covers, and valve caps