RIDGID SeekTech SR-60 Operator's Manual page 21

e. Re-locate the ground connection for a better circuit.
Ensure there is enough contact (ground stake is suffi-
ciently 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 perpendicular-
ly 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 ei-
ther 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 dis-
play. If this is not the case, the utility may be changing direc-
tion or other coupled signals may be present.
$ = same distance
ƒ ƒ
 
$
*URXQG
Ground
ƒ

(QHUJL]HG 3LSH
Energized Pipe
Figure 27: Checking for Distortion
VDPH GLVWDQFH
ƒ ƒ

$
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$
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 unground-
ed at the far end, higher frequencies may be the only means
to make the line traceable. (See Informational Locating, on
page 37.)
8. When using the transmitter inductively, be sure to begin the
locate about 30 feet (10 m) 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 cou-
pling 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 maximiz-
ing Signal Strength.
In general, if the SR-60 is used in a zone over the target line with-
in 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 33 for information on noise
suppression options.
Ridge Tool Company
SeekTech SR-60
19