WHAT DO ALL THE DIFFERENT MODELS OF CABLE LOCATOR MEAN?
Posted by Nurul Basher on
So you want a Cable Detector and you’ve stumbled upon our site, but you’re confused by all the different products. Well, you’ve come to the right page; hopefully this handy guide will allow you to click straight through to the one for you and save some serious scrolling.
The i500 is the standard EziCAT. It’s Network Rail-approved and will allow you to quickly and safely locate and avoid buried utilities. It will allow you to detect electricity cables, data/telecommunication cables, conductive pipes and even non-conductive pipes and cables when employed with the EziTEX signal generator.
Even though it’s the basic model, it’s packed with great features:
Hazard Zone – This provides an additional warning of the close proximity of buried services. This is really important when utilities might be buried close to the surface.
Pinpoint Assist – Maintains the highest peak reading obtained on the signal strength indicator. The peak time can be adjusted between 0-5 seconds.
Signal Service Indicator – SSI enables the user to trace an individual service amongst many. The numeric display shows the highest reading over this service if it has the EziTEX signal generator connected. This ensures the user can follow the service without straying onto another. The SSI mode can also be used to trace the Dual Frequency Sonde with ease.
As well as all this, the i500 has a nice, easy to read screen, in built test function and an indicator to tell you when it’s time to take it in for its annual service. It works in automatic, 8kHz, 33kHz, radio and power mode.
All the functions of the i500, but also with a depth indication feature to allow you to estimate depth up to 3m. Used in conjunction with the EziTEX generator or dual frequency Sonde.
Add datalogging to the mix, as the i650 records and stores information whilst in use, which can then easily be sent over Bluetooth to your computer for analysis. LOGiCAT software then allows you to view the locator’s use and search through records if needed.
Combine that data storage with GPS information from the locator and you can be sure that operators are using the CATs effectively. Alongside all the other features outlined above, this makes the i750 a really advanced piece of equipment.
On average, a Signal Generator will help you locate 50% more buried cables and pipes than using a locator by itself. The t100 and t300 will give off both 8kHz and 33kHz signals.
Why do you need to use a genny?
- It improves utility detection in areas of high signal interference
- It enables depth estimation
- Enables you to locate non-conductive utilities by applying an active signal to them. A strike against a fibre-optic internet cable might not be as dangerous as a live power line, but it’s still hugely disruptive to the area and expensive to fix, so use your genny!
If you’re looking for some revision on how to use a CAT and genny, we recommend watching Cable Detection’s YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4QJ2e_xmjI
What are xf locators and gennies?
Xf stands for extra frequency, giving you the option of using lower frequencies (512Hz and 640Hz) that make tracing buried utilities over long distances easy and efficient.
What is the Ultra System?
Ultra locators are highly advanced precision utility tracing instruments created so the user can configure for different project environments. With over 100 programmable modes, the operator can optimise to suit conditions.
Can we be trained to use the EziSystem?
Yes! We can organise User training for up to ten people at a location of your choice (as long as it has a board room and a place to practice outside with the CATs). For personnel such as site managers or supervisors we can also organise Key User training for up to six people. THis is conducted by official Cable Detection personnel. Just get in touch with info@survey-tech.co.uk for the latest availability and prices.