Sondes, Flexrods and FlexiTrace
Sondes are battery powered transmitters that are useful for tracing non-metallic pipes.
They can be fixed to Flexrods to allow them to be pushed through pipes or conduits, and
some are suitable for blowing through ductwork. The RD8100 can detect a range of
sonde frequencies, including those transmitted by GatorCam
systems and P350 flexitrax
crawlers.
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For a detailed guide on locating sondes, please refer to the operation manual.
A FlexiTrace is a traceable fiberglass rod incorporating wire conductors with a sonde
at the end. It is connected to the output of the transmitter and is typically used in small
diameter, non-metallic pipes. The user has the option of locating the entire length of the
cable or choosing to locate only the tip of the cable.
The FlexiTrace has a maximum power rating of 1W. When using the FlexiTrace with a
Radiodetection Tx-5(B) or Tx-10(B) transmitter the output limit must be set to 1W in the
MAX P menu and the output voltage limit set to LOW in the MAX V menu.
No additional settings are required for the Tx-1 transmitter.
Fault-finding with an A-Frame
The RD8100PDL and PTL models have the ability to detect cable or pipe insulation faults
accurately using an A-Frame accessory. The Tx-5(B) and Tx-10(B) provide fault finding
signals that can be detected by the A-Frame as a result of the signal bleeding to ground
through damaged cable sheaths.
The Transmitter's multimeter function can be used to measure the impedance of the
connected pipe or cable in order to characterize the fault.
For a detailed guide to fault-finding, please refer to the operation manual.
Plug / Live cable connector
The plug connector is connected to the output of the transmitter and is used to put a
signal onto a line and trace it from a domestic mains plug to the service cable in the
street.
The live cable connector can be used to apply a signal to a live cable. Only suitably
qualified personnel should use this equipment.
Submersible antenna
This antenna is connected to the locator and used to locate pipes and cables underwater
at depths of up to 300 feet / 100 meters.
WARNING: use of the submersible antenna should be by fully licensed and
experienced personnel only, and only after fully reading the operation manual!
4 or flexiprobe
pushrod
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RD Manager PC Software
RD Manager is the RD8100 locator system PC companion, and it allows you to manage
and customize your locator. RD Manager is also used to retrieve and analyze survey and
usage data, run an eCert calibration, and to perform software upgrades.
You can use RD Manager to register your products to obtain an extended warranty, setup
your locator by performing a number of maintenance tasks such adjusting date and time,
activating and de-activating active frequencies, or by setting-up functions like CALSafe or
StrikeAlert.
RD Manager is compatible with PCs running Microsoft Windows XP, 7, 8 and 8.1. To
download RD Manager, go to www.radiodetection.com/RDManager.
If you do not have internet access, or wish to receive RD manager on a CD-ROM,
contact your local Radiodetection office or representative.
For more information about RD Manager refer to the RD Manager operation manual.
Bluetooth wireless connections
RD8100 locators feature a Bluetooth wireless module, as standard, providing the ability
to connect to compatible devices such as transmitters (Tx-5B or Tx-10B models), PCs,
laptops or handheld devices running a compatible application.
NOTE: The RD8100 locator wireless features may be subject to national and or
local regulations. Please consult your local authorities for more information.
WARNING! Do not attempt any wireless connection in areas where such
technology is considered hazardous. This may include: petrochemical facilities,
medical facilities or around navigation equipment.
Switching Bluetooth on
By default RD8100 locators and Bluetooth enabled transmitters are shipped with the
Bluetooth wireless connection module disabled.
1.
Press the
key to enter the menu.
2.
Scroll to the BT menu using the
or
3.
Press the
key (locator) or the
key (transmitter) to enter the BT menu.
4.
Scroll up or down to the ON option.
5.
Press the
key to switch Bluetooth ON and return to the previous menu.
You can switch Bluetooth off to conserve battery life, or to comply with regulations in
areas where wireless communications are considered hazardous. To do this, follow the
above process, selecting 'OFF' in the BT menus.
keys.
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