RIDGID manual Checking for Distortion, SeekTech SR-60

SeekTech SR-60

overcome resistance and inject more current onto the line.

e.Re-locate the ground connection for a better circuit. Ensure there is enough contact (ground stake is sufficiently deep) especially in dryer soils.

f.In extremely dry soil, wetting the area around the ground stake will improve the circuit. Be aware the moisture will dissipate and evaporate, reducing the quality of the circuit over time.

5.Using the numeric Signal Angle Indicator is another way to check for distorted signals. Move the SR-60 perpendicularly to both sides of the traced line until the numeric Signal Angle indicator reads 45 degrees. Be sure to keep the lower Omnidirectional antenna node at the same height, and the locator mast vertical. If there is little or no distortion the traced line should be in the middle and the distance to each 45 degree point should be approximately the same on either side. If the signal is undistorted, then the distance from the line center to the 45° point is approximately equal to the depth.

Note: Another technique is to move the same distance to the right and left of the traced line, say 24 inches (60 cm) and check that the Signal Strength readings are similar.

6.While tracing, the Proximity Signal and Signal Strength should maximize, and the Measured Depth minimize, at the same place where the guidance arrows center on the display. If this is not the case, the utility may be changing direction or other coupled signals may be present.

A =same distance

45° 0° 45°

AA

Ground

45° 45°

A

Energized Pipe

Figure 27: Checking for Distortion

7.Higher frequencies bleed over to adjacent utilities more readily, but may be needed to overcome breaks in tracer wires or go over insulating couplers. If the line is ungrounded at the far end, higher frequencies may be the only means to make the line traceable. (See Informational Locating, on page 39).

8.When using the transmitter inductively, be sure to begin the locate about 30 feet (10m) away to avoid “direct coupling” (also know as air coupling). This occurs when the SR-60 picks up the signal from the transmitter directly through the air and not from the line to be traced. An unrealistic Measured Depth reading when over the line can also indicate air coupling is occurring.

9.While tracing, the mapping display operates best under the following conditions:

a.The line is level

b.The SR-60 Locator is above the target utility elevation

c.The SR-60 antenna mast is held approximately vertical

If these conditions are not met, pay close attention to maximizing Signal Strength.

In general, if the SR-60 is used in a zone over the target line within a sweep area of about two “depths” of the line, the map will be useful and accurate. Be aware of this when using the map if the target or line is very shallow. The width of the useful search area for the map can be small if the line is extremely shallow.

See the section on Suppression on page 32 for information on noise suppression options.

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