Vivax vLoc-9800 User Handbook Manual

vLoc-9800 User Handbook

(English Edition)

Version 1.0

Page 1

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 .................................................. 2

1.5 Care of Equipment ................................................................................................................... 2

1.6 Care When Interpreting the Information Provided by the Locator ............................................ 3

1.7 American & Canadian Safety Notices ...................................................................................... 3

Service & Support ..................................................................................................................................... 4

2.1 Serial Number and Software Revision Number ....................................................................... 4

2.2 Distributors and Service Centers Closest to You: .................................................................... 5

vLoc-9800 Receiver .................................................................................................................................. 6

3.1 vLoc-9800 Receiver ................................................................................................................. 6

3.2 Charging the Receiver Batteries .............................................................................................. 7

3.3 vLoc-9800 Receiver Display .................................................................................................... 8

3.4 Locating Mode (Response) ..................................................................................................... 8

3.4.1 Auto Left/Right Mode .......................................................................................................... 8

3.4.2 Manual Left/Right Mode (Available on some models) ......................................................... 9

3.4.3 Manual Mode ...................................................................................................................... 9

3.4.4 Sonde Mode ...................................................................................................................... 10

3.5 Audio ..................................................................................................................................... 10

3.6 Sensitivity Control .................................................................................................................. 10

3.7 Setup Menu ........................................................................................................................... 11

3.8 Frequency Selection .............................................................................................................. 11

3.9 Information Pushbutton (Depth & Current) ............................................................................ 11

MyLocator2 ............................................................................................................................................. 13

4.1 Launch the Application .......................................................................................................... 13

4.2 Splash Screen ....................................................................................................................... 15

4.3 Software Update .................................................................................................................... 16

4.4 Advanced Configuration Tool ................................................................................................ 17

4.5 Switch On/Off User Menu Settings ........................................................................................ 18

4.6 Switching On/Off Frequency Selections ................................................................................ 19

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4.7 Saving a Configuration .......................................................................................................... 19

4.8 Configuration Lock Dongle .................................................................................................... 20

4.9 Icon Summary ....................................................................................................................... 21

Loc-10Tx Transmitter .............................................................................................................................. 22

5.1 Loc-10Tx Transmitter Overview ............................................................................................. 22

5.1.1 Transmitter Battery ............................................................................................................ 23

5.1.2 Removing the Battery Tray ................................................................................................ 23

5.1.3 Replacing the Alkaline Battery .......................................................................................... 23

5.1.4 Rechargeable Batteries ..................................................................................................... 23

5.1.5 Re-fitting the Battery Tray ................................................................................................. 24

5.1.6 Battery Charging and Disposal .......................................................................................... 24

5.1.7 Battery Condition Indication .............................................................................................. 24

5.2 Transmitting Modes ............................................................................................................... 25

5.2.1 Induction Mode .................................................................................................................. 25

5.2.2 Direct Connection Mode .................................................................................................... 26

5.2.3 Clamp Mode ...................................................................................................................... 27

5.2.4 Connection Block .............................................................................................................. 27

5.2.5 Frequencies and Power Output ......................................................................................... 28

5.2.6 Most Used Frequencies (Frequency Selection) Feature ................................................... 29

5.2.7 "Dual frequency" Mode ...................................................................................................... 30

5.3 Information............................................................................................................................. 31

Loc-5Tx Transmitter ................................................................................................................................ 32

6.1 Pushbutton ............................................................................................................................ 32

6.2 External Connectors .............................................................................................................. 32

6.3 Transmitter Battery ................................................................................................................ 33

6.3.1 Removing the Battery Tray ................................................................................................ 33

6.3.2 Replacing Alkaline Batteries .............................................................................................. 33

6.3.3 Rechargeable Batteries ..................................................................................................... 33

6.3.4 Re-fitting the Battery Tray ................................................................................................. 34

6.3.5 Battery Charging and Disposal .......................................................................................... 34

6.3.6 Battery Condition Indication .............................................................................................. 34

6.4 Display ................................................................................................................................... 35

6.5 Multi Frequencies .................................................................................................................. 36

6.6 Most Used Frequencies (Frequency Selection) Feature ....................................................... 36

6.7 Induction Mode ...................................................................................................................... 37

6.8 Direct Connection Mode ........................................................................................................ 37

6.9 Clamp Mode .......................................................................................................................... 37

Loc-1Tx Transmitter ................................................................................................................................ 38

7.1 Pushbutton ............................................................................................................................ 38

7.2 External Connectors .............................................................................................................. 38

7.3 Replacing Alkaline Batteries .................................................................................................. 38

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7.4 Rechargeable Batteries ......................................................................................................... 38

7.5 Loc-1Tx Transmitter Operation .............................................................................................. 38

Using the vLoc-9800 ............................................................................................................................... 39

8.1 Using the Receiver ................................................................................................................ 39

8.1.1 Line Locating ..................................................................................................................... 39

8.1.2 Depth & Current Measurement ......................................................................................... 39

8.1.3 Sonde Location ................................................................................................................. 40

8.2 Passive or Active Location .................................................................................................... 40

8.2.1 Passive Locating ............................................................................................................... 40

8.2.2 Active Locating .................................................................................................................. 41

8.3 Applying the Transmitter’s Signal .......................................................................................... 41

8.3.1 Direct Connection .............................................................................................................. 41

8.3.2 Clamp (Coupler) ................................................................................................................ 42

8.3.3 Induction ............................................................................................................................ 43

8.3.4 Searching (sweeping) an Area .......................................................................................... 43

8.3.5 Tracing a Buried Line ........................................................................................................ 44

8.3.6 Pinpointing & Confirming the Buried Line .......................................................................... 44

8.3.7 Distorted Fields ................................................................................................................. 44

8.3.8 Measuring Depth and Current ........................................................................................... 45

8.4 Using the Accessories ........................................................................................................... 46

8.4.1 Using the LPC Separation Filter ........................................................................................ 46

8.4.2 Using the A-frame in Fault Finding .................................................................................... 46

8.4.3 Using the Remote Antenna USB ....................................................................................... 48

Accessories & Options ............................................................................................................................ 51

9.1 A-frame (Optional) ............................................................................................................... 51

9.2 Remote Antenna (Optional) ................................................................................................ 51

9.3 Loc-10Tx Vehicle Power Lead (Optional) .......................................................................... 51

9.4 Loc-10Tx Outdoor Power Supply (Optional) ..................................................................... 51

9.5 LPC Separation Filter (Optional) ........................................................................................ 51

9.6 Receiver Vehicle Charging Lead (Optional) ...................................................................... 52

9.7 Sonde (Optional) .................................................................................................................. 52

9.8 Clamp (Optional) .................................................................................................................. 52

9.9 Lithium-ion Rechargeable Battery Pack (Standard) ......................................................... 52

9.10 Receiver Battery Charger (Standard) ................................................................................. 53

9.11 USB Cable (Standard) ......................................................................................................... 53

9.12 Alkaline Battery Holder (Standard) .................................................................................... 53

9.13 Ground Stake (Standard) .................................................................................................... 53

9.14 Direct Connection Lead (Standard) ................................................................................... 53

9.15 Loc-1Tx Alkaline Battery Tray (Standard) ......................................................................... 53

9.16 Ground Spool (Optional) ..................................................................................................... 53

9.17 Banana Plugs Adapter (Optional) ...................................................................................... 54

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9.18 Loc-5Tx Battery Pack (NiMH) .............................................................................................. 54

9.19 Loc-5Tx Alkaline Battery Tray ............................................................................................ 54

9.20 Loc-5Tx/10Tx Charger ......................................................................................................... 54

9.21 Loc-10Tx Rechargeable Battery Tray ................................................................................ 54

9.22 Loc-10Tx Alkaline Battery Tray .......................................................................................... 54

Glossary .................................................................................................................................................. 55

1 General Safety & Care Information

Page 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 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, or gases, dust.

• Do NOT directly connect this equipment to cables or pipes that have a potential difference to ground of

greater than 35V AC.

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 rechargeable batteries for 6 hours. If at any time the rechargeable
batteries do NOT last as long as anticipated – discharge fully and then charge for 6 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.

1 General Safety & Care Information

Page 2

• 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 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 3-5 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 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 included 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.

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 General Safety & Care Information

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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.

• CFR 47 Part 2 : 2004.

• CFR 47 Part 15 : 2006.

• ANSI C63.4 : 2003.

• 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.

• Usage duration shall be as short as possible; to prevent possible radio interference to authorized services,

especially the 100 kHz Loran-C frequency.

• 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.

• ETSI EN 300 330-2 : 2006.

• ETSI EN 301 489-1 : 2005.

• ETSI EN 301 489-3 : 2002.

2 Service & Support

Page 4

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 Model & Serial Number

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

Page 5

2.2 Distributors and Service Centers Closest to You:

United State of America Europe

Vivax-Metrotech Corporation SebaKMT

3251 Olcott Street, Seba Dynatronic
Santa Clara, CA 95054, USA Mess-und Ortungstechnik GmbH
Website : www.vivax-metrotech.com Dr.-Herbert-Iann-Str. 6,
96148 Baunach, Germany
Sales & Sales Support:
T/Free : [phone] Tel : [phone]
Tel : [phone] Fax : [phone]
Fax : [phone] Website : www.sebakmt.com
Email : [e-mail] Email : [e-mail]

Application Support:

Australasia

T/Free : [phone]

SebaKMT AUS

Tel : [phone] Unit 1, 176 South Creek Road,
Fax : [phone] Cromer NSW 2009, Australia
Email : [e-mail]

Tel : [phone]
Service & Repairs: Fax : [phone]
T/Free : [phone] Website : www.sebakmtaus.com
Tel : [phone] Email : [e-mail]
Fax : [phone] [e-mail]
Email : [e-mail]

China

All Other Department:

Leidi Utility Supply (Shanghai) Ltd.

T/Free : [phone] Rm405 3rd Building No. 641, Tianshan Rd,
Tel : [phone] Shanghai, China 200336
Fax : [phone]

Tel : [phone]

Canada

Fax : [phone]
Vivax Canada Inc.

Website : www.leidi.com
400 Esna Park Drive, Email : [e-mail]
Unit 17, Markham,
Ontario, L3R 3K2, Canada

Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
Website : www.vivax-metrotech.com
Email : [e-mail]

3 vLoc-9800 Receiver

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vLoc-9800 Receiver

3.1 vLoc-9800 Receiver

The vLoc-9800 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:

1 Bluetooth Module (Not available for vLoc-

9800)

6 Charging Socket

2 Pushbutton & Display 7 Mini USB Port Data Transfer and Software

Upgrade

3 Carbon Fiber Reinforced Antenna Assembly 8 Accessories Port

4 Accessory & Charging Sockets 9 Model# & Serial#

5 USB Data Transfer (Inactive) 10 AA Battery Pack/Rechargeable Battery Pack

3 vLoc-9800 Receiver

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3.2 Charging the Receiver Batteries

The vLoc-9800 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 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 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
specific 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 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 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 fire, or get wet.

Icon A Icon B

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3.3 vLoc-9800 Receiver Display

The vLoc-9800 has two operational displays, “Left/Right” and “Peak Detect”.

1 Sensitivity Setting 8 Signal Strength

2 Auto/Manual/Sonde Indicator 9 Mode Select, Auto/Peak/Sonde

3 Frequency 10 Increase Sensitivity

4 Speaker Volume 11 Change Frequency

5 Battery Level 12 Information Key (selects depth screen for

instance)

6 Signal Strength Bar Graph 13 Reduce Sensitivity

7 Moving Pointer 14 On/Off Switch

3.4 Locating Mode (Response)

The vLoc-9800 receiver has an array of antennas; these can be toggled through different configurations
(modes) to provide different responses to the signals radiating from the buried pipes and cables. The modes
are:

3.4.1 Auto Left/Right Mode

The Left/Right Auto mode is ideal when tracing long distance lines in less congested sites. It requires no user
input to the keyboard allowing the operator to concentrate more on the safety of the surroundings.

Left/Right Display

Peak Detect Display

3 vLoc-9800 Receiver

Page 9

As the locator is moved from left to right across the cable the moving bar will move accordingly. When the
moving bar is directly over the circle (indicating the cross section of a cable or pipe), the locator is directly
over the target line. At this point the numeric signal level will be at its highest.

NOTE
The tone from the speaker is pulsing one side and has a solid tone the other.
This is to enable the operator to easily judge the position of the line without
looking down at the display when walking along busy streets etc.

When operating in the Auto Left/Right mode the dB sensitivity value will be continuously changing. This is
because the unit is automatically adjusting the gain of the instrument to optimize the performance in that
situation.

3.4.2 Manual Left/Right Mode (Available on some models)

In the Manual Left/Right mode the sensitivity is set by pressing the “+” and “-” pushbuttons. This has the
advantage of enabling the operator to adjust the sensitivity balance on signals from a deep pipe or cable. It
can also be used to mask out the signal from an unwanted source.

To reject an unwanted signal, first set the sensitivity to a high value such that the unwanted signal is
detectable. Sweep across the unwanted signal, reducing the sensitivity until the locate bar ceases to respond
to the signal. Now double check that the wanted line is detectable. Keep the sensitivity at this setting and
continue to locate the line.

3.4.3 Manual Mode

The Manual mode is particularly useful in congested areas where there are multiple signals radiating from
various lines. The sensitivity is set manually by pressing the “+” and “-” pushbuttons. As the locator is
traversed across the target line the “curtains” of the bar graph will close. If the curtains are fully closed or fully
open, one press of the “+” or “-” will bring the curtains back within scale. A numeric signal level is also
displayed.

When using the manual mode the relative signal levels become apparent aiding identification of the target
line.

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3.4.4 Sonde Mode

Sonde mode uses the antennas in a “Peak” configuration. Text 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.

The vLoc-9800 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 90º 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 (512Hz/640Hz) can transmit through some metallic pipes such as cast iron
pipes – which is why they are frequently used with sewer inspection cameras.

3.5 Audio

The visual display is also accompanied by an audio response. The output level (volume) of this response is
set by entering the “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 significant amount
of power, using lower volume can make the battery life of the receiver last longer.

3.6 Sensitivity Control

In manual modes, up & down 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% deflection. Holding down or repeated pushing of the “+” or “-” pushbuttons
increments/decrements the gain.

Pushbutton Pushbutton

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3.7 Setup Menu

A second function performed by the “i” pushbutton is to access the setup menu. Press and hold the “i”
pushbutton for two seconds to display the setup menu. Use the “+”, “-” to navigate through the various
options and use the “M” pushbutton to select. To exit the setup menu, press the “i” pushbutton.

The setup menu allows the user to configure their personal preferences. This menu can be accessed and
changed at any time.

3.8 Frequency Selection

The vLoc-9800 receiver is capable of locating a number of frequencies. A list of these frequencies can be
accessed using the setup menu. The setup menu allows the operator to select the frequencies they wish to
use regularly. The frequency select pushbutton on the main receiver pad is used to toggle through the
frequencies defined in the setup menu. The operating frequency is shown in the information bar at the top of
the display. It is possible to change this selection at any time using the setup menu.

The initial frequencies set at the time the unit is supplied are “Power”, “Radio”, 982Hz, 9.8 kHz, and 83.1 kHz.
See the transmitter section for suggestions of which frequency is best suited to specific applications.

To select the frequencies you wish to use regularly, enter the setup menu by pressing and holding the “i”
pushbutton for 2 seconds. Use the “+” and “-” to select the word “Frequency” – then press the “M” pushbutton
to display the list of available frequencies.

The “+” and “-” pushbuttons are used to navigate the list of frequencies. To add a frequency to the
“Frequently used list” press the “M” pushbutton and a dot will appear in the circle alongside the frequency. To
deselect a frequency press the “M” pushbutton and the dot will disappear. Once your selection is completed
press “i” pushbutton once to return to the setup menu, and again to exit the setup menu.

3.9 Information Pushbutton (Depth & Current)

Pressing the “i” pushbutton will display the depth to the center of the radiated signal and a measurement of
the current (press the pushbutton briefly – remember if you press and hold, you enter the setup menu. If you
do enter the setup menu, press the “i” pushbutton again to return to the locating screen then try again).

If measuring the depth of a Sonde, ensure “Sonde” mode is selected otherwise the depth measurement will
be incorrect. Sonde mode has a different “Depth” screen and does not indicate current.

Pushbutton

Pushbutton

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IMPORTANT
When locating a cable or pipe (“Line”) – the instrument should be in “Peak” or
“Left/Right” mode and the depth and current measurements should only be
taken with the bottom of the receiver standing on the ground and directly in line
with the target line.

When locating a Sonde – set the mode to Sonde - then the instrument will
automatically be in “Peak” configuration. Depth measurements should only be
taken with the bottom of the receiver standing on the ground and at ninety
degrees to the Sonde.

The accuracy of depth and current readings depends on the quality of the radiated signal being located. If the
signal is not distorted, the depth reading will be accurate to within 5% of the actual depth. If the signal is
distorted, depth readings will be less accurate. When taking depth measurement, always hold the receiver in
line with the line and at 900 to the ground.

4 MyLocator2

Page 13

MyLocator2

MyLocator2 configuration tool is a software package that enables the operator to configure vLoc series 2
locators. The software is compatible with Window XP, Vista and 7. To install, use the link on the Vivax­metrotech web site and follow the installation instructions. A MyLocator2 shortcut icon will appear on your
desktop.

MyLocator2 is under continual development so the following is a guide to its operation but there may be
subtle changes to screens etc. However, the guide should still give sufficient information for the user to
navigate MyLocator2.

4.1 Launch the Application

To launch MyLocator2, double click on the MyLocator2 shortcut icon. If the host computer is connected to the
web, it will check to see if MyLocator2 is the latest version. If it is not, it will ask if you wish to install the latest
version. Follow the instructions if you wish to install the new version.

MyLocator2 can be operated on different levels. Each level enables different features and functionality. Some
levels require a dongle to operate. Dongles are available from Vivax-Metrotech.

In its basic form it allows the operator to:

• Check the software revision number and download the latest version. This feature is useful where
software changes have been made to enhance existing features and to install new free of charge
features as they become available.

• Adding flash screens: The user can add pictures or company Logo’s of his choice to the start up screen.

The basic operational screen is displayed below.

4 MyLocator2

Page 14

Connect the vLoc-9800 Receiver to the PC using a USB to Mini USB cable. The PC should recognize the
vLoc-9800 and the display will now change to the below or similar.

If connected to the web, MyLocator2 will check at this stage to see if there is a newer version of MyLocator2
or locator software is available. If it is and you wish to update either software follow the instructions.

The configuration of the locator can be saved at any time as described below in section 4. However,
MyLocator2 will occasionally prompt the user to save a configuration. It is not necessary to save a
configuration at these times unless the user will find the configuration useful at a later date.

It will now be possible to perform the 2 operations in the tabs shown.