RIDGID NaviTrack Scout Manual Del Usuario página 12

6. Tracing a Line with Scout
The Scout can also be used to trace a pipe or line so that the
ground above it can be marked. This identifies the line's loca-
tion so that it can be avoided during a dig or exposed for repair
or replacement. The Scout can locate energized lines with a
variety of frequencies or it can be used passively to conduct a
sweep to locate any long conductors carrying signals.
Underground lines are energized with a line transmitter. This
active signal is then traced using a receiver such as the Scout.
1. Attach the line transmitter to the line according to the
manufacturer's instructions.
A "transmitter" is a generic name used for anything that gener-
ates a locatable signal. It is used to describe a sonde as well
as the device that is used to energize a cable or pipe.
2. Match the frequency used on the transmitter with the
same frequency on the Scout. Be sure it has a line trace
icon . Push the main menu button to return to the
locate screen.
3. When beginning the trace it is recommended that signal
strength be observed first to see if it drops when the
Scout is pulled away. Point the mast at the leads or the
transmitter itself if using inductive mode. Over the line it
should peak and drop off on either side. If the signal
strength and lines on the screen DO NOT agree then
the signal may be distorted.
4. When tracing, the way the pipe or cable is running will
be shown on the screen with 2 solid lines. Keeping the
lines on the center indicates that the Scout is tracing
the line underground. If the line moves off to the left or
right then move the Scout to get the line back on cen-
ter. The signal emitted from a line is strongest directly
over that line. If that is not the case then distortion is
present.
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Note – When using a line trace frequency there are two lines
on the screen. When using a sonde frequency the Equator is a
single line.
Caution – Care should be taken to watch for signal interfer-
ence that may give inaccurate readings. Depth readings
should be taken as estimates and actual depths should be ver-
ified by exposing the line before digging.
5. When beginning the trace it is recommended that signal
strength be observed first to see if it drops when the
Scout is pulled away. Point the mast at the leads or the
transmitter itself if using inductive mode. Over the line it
should peak and drop off on either side. If the signal
strength and lines on the screen DO NOT agree then
the signal may be distorted.
6.1 Tracing a Passive AC Line
In passive mode the Scout senses alternating current, or AC
fields. Buried power lines typically do not emit any traceable
signal unless power is flowing in the wires. For example street
lights that are turned off are hard to trace passively.
1. Select a Passive AC Trace Frequency with the passive
line trace icon .
2. The Scout has two (2) passive AC tracing frequencies
that are standard. They are 50Hz and 60Hz.
.
6.2 Operating Tips for Line Tracing
When the lines are not centered on the map, but
signal strength is maximized, distortion is present!
a. Try changing the frequency used to a lower one.
b. Move the ground stake position away from the line
to be traced.
c. Make sure that the line is not commonly bonded to
.
another utility.
If the lines will not center or if they move across the
screen inexplicably, then the Scout may not be receiv-
ing a clear signal.
a. Check the transmitter to be sure that it is operating
and well grounded.
b. Test the circuit by pointing the lower antenna at
either transmitter lead.
c. Check that the Scout and transmitter are operating
on the same frequency.
d. Try different frequencies, starting with the lowest,
until the line can be picked up dependably.