Useful Operating Points; Inductive Clamp Method - RIDGID NaviTrack 10 Operator's Manual

Figure 8: Checking the Signal

Useful Operating Points

•
The lower the total resistance, the more current
will be put on the line. A good circuit is one that
allows enough current to flow so that the locator
gets a clear and stable signal.
•
To help lower the resistance of the circuit,
scrape away dirt, paint and corrosion before
connecting to the target conductor or grounding
spike.
•
A good ground lowers resistance, which allows
more current flow and a stronger signal. For a
better connection
grounding spike as far as possible. Moist
ground is a better conductor than dry soil.
Wetting the ground can improve a circuit in dry
soil.
•
Lower frequencies travel farther and produce
less "bleed over" to other conductors. Higher
frequencies have the benefit of "jumping"
gaps/breaks in tracer wires or pipes but do not
travel as far. High frequencies can complicate
the locate by "coupling" onto other conductors.
If the condition of the conductor is unknown, try
lower frequencies first.
•
The transmitter's leads can act as antennas,
broadcasting a strong signal. If locating close to
the transmitter, keep the leads as short as
possible by stowing the excess length in the
transmitter's side pockets. This will reduce the
amount of interfering signals from the leads.
•
It is usually best to start by using the lowest
frequency and the least amount of current
needed to effectively illuminate the line. Lower
frequencies travel farther. Higher frequencies
generally make it easier to illuminate a line, but
they do not travel as far and are much more
likely to couple onto other utility lines. This can
distort the signal and reduce accuracy.
www.navitrack.com
10
to ground, insert the
•
Increasing the output power generally improves
the locate if there is a good circuit.
Note: increased output reduces the battery levels
faster.
ALWAYS HOOK UP LEADS FIRST BEFORE
POWERING THE UNIT ON TO AVOID SHOCK.
ALWAYS POWER
DISCONNECTING LEADS.

Inductive Clamp Method

Figure 9: Inductive Clamp (Optional)
Using the optional Inductive Clamp allows you to
induce a traceable current onto a pipe or cable where
direct-connect with lead clips is not feasible.
Separately grounding the transmitter is not necessary
using the Inductive Clamp. But note that the line into
which current is induced must be grounded in both
directions for a signal to be induced away from the
transmitter.
1. Plug the inductive clamp into the 1/4" phone
jack above the battery cover. Plug must be
mono or, if stereo, connected between tip
and base. The coil cords are disabled when
the clamp is connected.
2. Clamp the jaws of the Inductive Clamp
around a section of the pipe or cable to be
traced.
Ridge Tool Company
DANGER
UNIT OFF BEFORE
Elyria, Ohio U.S.A