RIDGID Scout Sonde and Line Locator Instructions
- June 6, 2024
- RIDGID
Table of Contents
Scout Sonde and Line Locator
ScoutTM
ScoutTM
Sonde and Line Locator
ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Record Serial Number below and retain product serial number which is located
on nameplate. Serial No.
ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
General Safety Information
WARNING! Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow all
instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious
personal injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Work Area Safety
· Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered benches and dark areas may
cause accidents.
· Do not operate electrical devices or power tools in explosive atmospheres,
such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or heavy dust. Electrical
devices or power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
· Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while operating tool.
Distractions can cause you to lose control.
Electrical Safety
· Do not operate the system with electrical components removed. Exposure to
internal parts increases the risk of injury.
· Avoid exposure to rain or wet conditions. Keep battery out of direct contact
with water. Water entering electrical devices increases the risk of electric
shock.
· Do not probe high voltage line.
Battery Precautions
· Use only the size and type of battery specified. Do not mix cell types (e.g.
do not use alkaline with rechargeable). Do not use partly discharged and fully
charged cells together (e.g. do not mix old and new).
· Recharge batteries with charging units specified by the battery
manufacturer. Using an improper charger can overheat and rupture the battery.
· Properly dispose of the batteries. Exposure to high temperatures can cause
the battery to explode, so do not dispose of in a fire. Some countries have
regulations concerning battery disposal. Please follow all applicable
regulations.
Personal Safety
· Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense. Do not use
diagnostic tool while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or
medications. A moment of inattention while operating tools may result in
serious personal injury.
· Gloves should always be worn for health and safe-
ty reasons. Sewer lines are unsanitary and may contain harmful bacteria and
viruses.
· Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Proper
footing and balance enables better control of the tool in unexpected
situations.
· Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection. Dust mask, non-skid safety
shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection must be used for appropriate
conditions.
· Use proper accessories. Do not place this product on any unstable cart or
surface. The product may fall causing serious injury to a child or adult or
serious damage to the product.
· Prevent object and liquid entry. Never spill liquid of any kind on the
product. Liquid increases the risk of electrical shock and damage to the
product.
· Avoid Traffic. Pay close attention to moving vehicles when using on or near
roadways. Wear visible clothing or reflector vests. Such precautions may
prevent serious injury.
Scout Use and Care
· Use equipment only as directed. Do not operate the Scout unless proper
training has been completed and the owners manual read.
· Do not immerse the antennas in water. Store in a dry place. Such measures
reduce the risk of electric shock and instrument damage.
· Store idle equipment out of the reach of children and other untrained
persons. Equipment is dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
· Maintain the instrument with care. Properly maintained diagnostic
instruments are less likely to cause injury.
· Check for breakage of parts, and any other conditions that may affect the
Scout’s operation. If damaged, have the instrument serviced before using. Many
accidents are caused by poorly maintained tools.
· Use only accessories that are recommended by the manufacturer for the Scout.
Accessories that may be suitable for one instrument may become hazardous when
used on another.
· Keep handles dry and clean; free from oil and grease. Allows for better
control of the instrument.
· Protect against excessive heat. The product should be situated away from
heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves or other products
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
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Service
· Diagnostic instrument service must be performed only by qualified repair
personnel. Service or maintenance performed by unqualified repair personnel
could result in injury.
· When servicing a tool, use only identical replacement parts. Follow
instructions in the Maintenance Section of this manual. Use of unauthorized
parts or failure to follow maintenance instructions may create a risk of
electrical shock or injury.
· Follow instructions for changing accessories. Accidents are caused by poorly
maintained tools.
· Provide proper cleaning. Remove battery before cleaning. Do not use liquid
cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth and some mild detergent. Do not
immerse in water.
· When cleaning, do not use scraping tools or abrasives as they may
permanently scratch the display. NEVER USE SOLVENTS to clean any part of the
system. Substances like acetone and other harsh chemicals can cause cracking
of the Case.
· Conduct a safety check. Upon completion of any service or repair of this
product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that
the product is in proper operating condition.
· Damage to the product that requires service. Remove the batteries and refer
servicing to qualified service personnel under any of the following
conditions:
· If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into product;
· If product does not operate normally by following the operating
instructions;
· If the product has been dropped or damaged in any way;
· When the product exhibits a distinct change in performance.
If you have any questions regarding the service or repair of this machine,
call or write to:
Ridge Tool Company Technical Service Department 400 Clark Street Elyria, Ohio
44035-6001 Tel: 800-519-3456 E-mail:
[email protected] On the Web: www.ridgid.com or
www.seesnake.com
In any correspondence, please give all the information shown on the nameplate
of your tool including model number and serial number.
Specific Safety Information
WARNING Read this operator’s manual carefully before using the ScoutTM Sonde
and line Locator. Failure to understand and follow the contents of this manual
may result in electrical shock, fire and/or severe personal injury.
Call the Ridge Tool Company, Technical Service Department at
800-519-3456 if you have any questions.
Important Notice The Scout is a diagnostic tool that senses electromagnetic
fields emitted by objects underground. It is meant to aide the user in
locating these objects by recognizing characteristics of the field lines and
displaying them on the screen. As electromagnetic field lines can be distorted
and interfered with it is important to verify the location of underground
objects before digging.
Several utilities may be underground in the same area. Be sure to follow local
guidelines and one call service procedures.
Exposing the utility is the only way to verify it’s existence, location and
depth.
Ridge Tool Co., its affiliates and suppliers, will not be liable for any
injury or any direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages sustained
or incurred by reason of the use of the Scout.
Specifications and Standard Equipment
Specifications Weight w/batteries………3 lbs. Weight w/o batteries……2.3 lbs.
Dimensions: Length ………………………11.2 Width ………………………..4.3 Height ……………………….22
Power Source…………….4 C-size batteries, 1.5V Alkaline (ANSI/NEDA 14A, IEC LR14)
or 1.2V NiMH or NiCad rechargeable batteries
Power Rating:…………….6V, 300mA
Operating Environment Temperature…………….-4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C) Humidity
………………….5% to 95% RH
Storage Temperature …..-4°F to 140°F (-20°C to 60°C)
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Standard Frequencies Sonde ……………………….512Hz, 640Hz, 874Hz, 33kHz Active Line
Trace………..128Hz, 8kHz, 33kHz, Passive Line Trace……..60Hz, 50Hz
Default Settings The default settings for the locator are:
· Depth units = Feet & Inches, · Volume = 1 (one setting above mute), ·
Backlight = Auto
Standard Equipment · Scout Locator · Markers and Mast Holder · Operator’s
Manual · 4 C-cell Batteries (Alkaline) · Training Video
Optional Equipment · Additional Pole/Sonde Markers · NaviTrack Transmitter ·
Inductive Clamp · Battery Sonde · Float Sonde
NOTE: · 60Hz = 540 Hz, 9th harmonic and 50hz = 450 Hz, 9th harmonic · Signal
Strength is Non linear in function. 2000 is 10x higher than 1000, 3000 is 10x
higher then 2000.
Introduction to the Scout
The Scout sonde and line locator uses multi directional antennas and advanced
processing to make pinpointing sondes and tracing buried utility lines fast,
accurate and easy.
What Are Its Unique Features?
Scout’s advanced technology gives several unique features over conventional
locators:
· Multi Directional Antenna System
· Micro map View
· Identifies distinct signal characteristics.
What Does It Do?
The Scout is used above ground to sense electromagnetic fields emitted from
underground or hidden lines (electrical conductors like metal wires and pipes)
or sondes (actively transmitting beacons). When the fields are simple and
undistorted, then the sensed fields are representative of the buried object.
The Scout locates conductive objects emitting a field; it does not directly
sense underground objects.
See Appendix A for further discussion on electrical fields.
Icon Legend
Display Icons
Sonde Frequency Active Trace Frequency Passive (AC) Trace Frequency Sound
Level Battery Level Depth Horizontal Angle Indicator Signal Strength Tools
Menu LCD Contrast LCD Backlight
Safety Alert Symbol, Refer to documentaion for safety messages
Keypad Icons
Menu Navigation Audio Tone Reset/Menu Item Select Menu Navigation/Forced Depth
(3 sec. press) Power ON/OFF Key Menu Key Sonde/Trace/Frequency Mode Key Volume
Control Key
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What Is The Scout Advantage?
Scout Views all of the signal (electromagnetic fields) with multidirectional
antenna. The multidirectional antenna offers definite advantages:
1. Signal always gets stronger as user gets closer to the target.
2. Eliminates Nulls and “Ghost Peaks”. With conventional locators it is
possible to have signal strength go up as it is moved farther away from the
target. A conventional locator signal has a peak then a null and then a
smaller peak. This can confuse the operator especially if they interpret a
smaller peak (known as “Ghost” or “False” peaks) as the target. The Scout sees
just one peak to draw the user to the target.
False Peaks Null
Peaks
What Is The Micro Map Advantage? The map provides graphics that shows the
signal’s characteristics. It is a bird’s eye view of the signal underground,
shown graphically on the screen. It is used as a guide for tracing underground
lines and can be used to better pinpoint sondes. It can also be used to
provide more information for complex locates. By moving the locator over the
ground the Scout passes over the signal emitted by the underground objects.
This allows the user to see on the screen, visualizations of the signal and
then mark them. Conventional locators cannot map the underground signal as
their antennas cannot see the complete shape of it.
Scout Components
Display Screen
Keypad
Figure 1 Sonde signal as “seen” by a conventional locator. Main peak in
center and two false peaks outside the two nulls.
Peak
Handle Speaker
Figure 2 Sonde signal as “seen” by the Scout. Only one peak, no nulls.
3. How the unit is held does not affect signal strength. The user can
approach from any direction and does not need to know the lie of the pipe or
wire.
4. Additional tools to identify and solve “difficult” locates include a
graphical micro map and an angle indicator to help interpret signal
characteristics.
Figure 3
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Upper Antenna
Antenna Mast Lower Antenna
Figure 4
Marker Chips Battery Compartment
Serial Number Label Icon Reference Label
Figure 5
Display Screen
Signal Strength Function/Frequency Distance (Depth)
Figure 6
6
Bubble Level Horizontal Field Angle Indicator Battery Level
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Keypad
Volume Control Key
Up Key Menu Navigation
Select Key Audio Tone Reset/Menu Item Select
Menu Key
Figure 7
Sonde/Trace/Frequency Mode Key
Power ON/OFF Key
Down Key Menu Navigation/Forced Depth
Volume Control Key — opens and closes the Sound Level menu Sonde/Trace/Frequency Mode Key — switches active frequencies and functions. Up Key — scrolls up through menu choices. Select Key — selects the highlighted choice when a menu is open Down Key — scrolls down through menu choices, hold down to force depth reading. Menu Key — opens/closes the menu. Power ON/OFF Key — turns the Scout ON or OFF.
Getting Started
Installing/Changing Batteries To install batteries into the Scout turn the
unit over to access the battery compartment. Turn the knob on the battery
cover counter clockwise. Pull straight up on the knob to remove the door.
Insert the batteries as shown on the inside decal and make sure they drop to
full contact. Fit the door into the case and turn the knob clockwise while
lightly pressing down to close. The battery cover can be installed in either
orientation.
Figure 8
When the Scout is turned on it takes a few seconds to check the batteries.
Until then the battery level will show as “empty”.
WARNING Do not allow debris to fall into battery compartment. Debris in the
battery compartment may short the battery contacts, leading to rapid discharge
of the batteries, which could result in electrolyte leakage or risk of fire.
Operation Time
Typical operation time for the Scout locator, when using alkaline cells,
ranges from about 12 to 24 hours depending on factors such as sound volume,
and how often the backlight is on. Other factors that affect the operation
time will include chemistry of the battery (many of the new high performance
batteries, such as the “Duracell® ULTRA” do last 10%-20% longer than
conventional alkaline cells under high demand applications). Operation at low
temperatures will also reduce battery life.
To preserve battery life the Scout will automatically shut down after 1 hour
of no key presses. Simply turn the unit on to resume use.
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Powering Up and Down Turn the power ON by depressing the Power key on the
keypad. The RIDGID® logo displays, the software version number will appear in
the lower right corner.
Figure 9
Turn the unit OFF by depressing and releasing the Power key on the keypad.
Low Battery Warning When the battery gets low, a battery icon will appear in
the map area on the screen. This indicates that the batteries need to be
changed and that the unit will soon shut down.
Figure 11
2. Using the up and down arrows highlight a frequency to match the one used
in the sonde or on the line transmitter, then press the select key (shown
below) to check the box. See the Menu Choices for reference. Hit the menu key
again to return to the main screen.
Figure 10
Just before complete shut down there will be a non-interruptible power down
sequence.
In some cases the voltage on rechargeable batteries may drop so quickly that
the unit will just shut down. The unit will turn OFF and restart. Just replace
the batteries and turn the unit back ON.
Set Up
Once the Scout is up and running the next step is to set up the frequencies
needed that match the equipment to be located. Each is activated for use by
selecting them from a list in the menu.
1. Push the menu key:
Figure 12
WARNING Be sure that the frequency selected matches the desired use. 33 is
available as both sonde AND line trace frequencies. Using a sonde frequency
for line tracing or vice versa, can cause the Scout to display incorrect depth
information.
3. Now press the sonde/trace/frequency mode key to cycle through the
activated frequencies and modes. Pay attention to the icons on the screen to
see which mode the Scout is operating in.
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Figure 13
4. If the depth, auto backlight or LCD contrast needs to be adjusted then
highlight the selection in the tools section of the menu and make changes
using the select key.
Figure 15
The volume will step to a higher volume with each press of the sound key or
the up and down arrows can be used to adjust the volume as well. Press the
select key to exit this screen.
Figure 14
Menu Choices
Sonde Mode Frequencies
Line Trace Mode Frequencies
Tools Menu
512 Hz 640 Hz 874 Hz 33 kHz
50 Hz (Passive) 60 Hz (Passive) 128 Hz 8 kHz 33 kHz
Feet/Meters Auto Back Light LCD Contrast
Sounds of the Scout
The sound is related to the signal strength. The Scout’s audio increases in
pitch as signal strength ramps up, and decreases in pitch as signal strength
ramps down.
The pitch will only increase as the signal strength goes up. When the signal
strength decreases the audio pitch will decrease until it reaches the bottom
of its tonal range. If signal strength continues to decrease, the audio will
ramp downward to a base-warble tone until signal strength begins to increase
again.
Adjust the sound by pressing the Sound Key.
Figure 16
NOTE! Pressing the select key during normal operation will center the pitch to
a medium level.
Tools Menu
Change of Depth Units The Scout can change the units that it measures depth to
either Feet or Meters. To change these settings simply highlight the depth
icon in the Tools Menu and then press the select key to toggle between feet or
meters.
Figure 17
Auto Back Light Low light levels are sensed by a light detector built into the
upper left corner of the keypad. The backlight can be forced on by blocking
the light to this sensor with a thumb. The automatic LCD backlight is factory
set to only turn on under fairly dark conditions. This is to conserve bat-
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
tery power. As the batteries near depletion, the backlight will appear dim.
Near the end of battery life, the backlight operates at a very low level to
conserve battery power. To set the backlight to always off, highlight the
light bulb icon in the tools section of the menu and press the select key to
toggle it between Auto and OFF.
Figure 18
LCD Contrast When this is highlighted and selected the LCD contrast can be
adjusted.
Figure 19 Use the up and down arrows to make the screen lighter or darker.
Figure 20
Locating the sonde
The Scout can be used to locate the signal of a sonde (transmitter) in a pipe,
so that its location can be identified above ground. Sondes can be placed at a
problem point in the pipe using a camera push rod or cable. They can also be
flushed down the pipe. The following assumes that the sonde is in a horizontal
pipe, the ground is approximately level and the Scout is held with the antenna
mast vertical.
IMPORTANT! Signal strength is the key factor in determining the sonde’s
location. To ensure an accurate locate, you MUST take care to maximize the
signal strength prior to marking an area for excavation.
When locating a sonde set up the locate in the following manner:
· Before putting the sonde in the line, use the Scout to make sure it’s
operating and that Scout is receiving its signal.
· Once the sonde is in position and transmitting, activate the sonde and match
the same frequency as the sonde on the Scout. Make sure it has a sonde mode
icon.
WARNING Be sure that the frequency selected matches the desired use. 512 and
33 are available as both sonde AND line trace frequencies. Using a sonde
frequency for line tracing or vice versa, can cause the Scout to display
incorrect depth information.
· Go to the suspected sonde location. If the direction of the pipe is unknown,
push the sonde a shorter distance into the line (~15 feet from the access, is
a good starting point).
Next use one of the following methods to locate the sonde.
Method 1 Maximize Signal Strength 1. Hold the Scout so the mast is out away
from your body. Sweep the mast in the suspected direction of the sonde while
observing the signal strength and listening to the sound. The signal will be
highest when the mast is closest to the sonde.
2. Lower Scout to its normal operating position (mast vertical) and walk in
the direction of the sonde. As you approach, the signal strength will increase
and the audio tone will ramp and rise in pitch. Use the signal strength and
the sound to maximize the signal.
Figure 21
3. Once the maximum signal has been located, place the Scout close to the
ground over the peak and move in all directions. Move the Scout away from the
maximum signal strength, to make sure that the signal drops off on all sides.
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Figure 22
Method 2 Follow the Equator – Then Maximize 1. Works best in unobstructed,
open areas, when the sonde is expected to be horizontal. Sweep the mast and
then walk in the direction of maximum signal strength as in Method 1. 2. When
the Scout displays a steady Equator line, center it on the screen and then
follow it towards increasing signal strength. When maximum has been located,
place the Scout close to the ground over the peak and move in all directions.
Move the Scout away from the maximum signal strength, to make sure that the
signal drops off on all sides.
Figure 23
Verify the Locate 1. At the point of maximum signal strength, and with
the mast vertical, move the Scout perpendicular to the Equator line on the
screen. When the Pole icon appears, move Scout until the Pole icon is centered
on the crosshairs with the lower antenna ball on the ground. Place one of the
red triangle markers on the ground at this spot.
Figure 24 View when Scout is on the pole.
2. Move Scout back across the Equator line to the other pole. Center the
crosshairs on the second Pole icon and mark its position as before.
3. Move back to the point of maximum signal strength. Mark this point on the
ground with the yellow hexagon marker chip. Move the lower antenna ball slowly
away from the yellow marker in all directions while observing the signal
strength display. The signal strength should be highest directly over the
sonde.
4. Look to see that all three markers are aligned and that the yellow hexagon
marker is approximately half way between the Pole markers.
If the yellow marker is not in the middle, see the section on tilted sondes.
IMPORTANT! Being on the Equator does NOT mean you’re over the sonde! Remember
that signal strength is the key factor in locating the sonde. You must be at
the point of highest signal strength AND be on the Equator (dashed line).
For best accuracy use the bubble level. The mast MUST be vertical when marking
the Poles and Equator, or their locations will be less accurate!
Measuring Depth
The Scout measures depth by comparing the strength of the signal at the lower
antenna to the upper antenna.
Depth is measured when the bottom antenna is touching the ground directly
above the signal source.
1. To measure depth place the locator on the ground, directly above the sonde
or line. Make sure that the angle indicator reads 5 degrees or less. Then
slowly rotate the unit in the direction of the arrow shown on the bottom left
of the screen until the depth appears.
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Figure 25
The bubble level is useful when measuring depth to make sure that the antenna
mast is vertical.
In order to maximize signal and achieve a more accurate depth reading, the
Scout needs to be rotated to align the upper antenna with the signal.
2. Depth will be shown in the lower left hand corner.
3. Force Depth Feature If the angle indicator reads higher than 5 degrees
then the Scout will not give a depth measurement. Press the down arrow key and
hold it. This will force the depth to display if depth can be measured. (See
the following section on tilted sondes.)
WARNING Using the force depth feature can provide inaccurate depth
measurements.
When checking the depth always take a measurement, then rotate the Scout 180
degrees (1/2 circle) and take another depth measurement. Be sure that the
lower ball stays at the same position on the ground and the mast is vertical.
If the depth readings are not within about 10% of each other then distortion
is present and the depth reading should be questioned.
Operating Tips for Locating a Sonde
· Use the sound when possible to help guide the Scout to the maximum signal
strength.
· If the Equator is crossed, and the signal is not maximized, follow the
Equator to the highest signal strength. Simply finding the Equator of the
sonde (the dashed line on the screen) does NOT indicate that the sonde has
been found. The point of maximum signal strength along this line must also be
found. Generally following the Equator line will lead the operator to the
“vicinity” of the sonde. If the sonde is steeply tilted, the Equator will NOT
lie directly above the sonde and the distance from the sonde to each Pole will
not be equal. If the sonde is tilted, maximize the signal.
· Always confirm the point of maximum signal strength. Verify what the map is
showing. The map assumes the following conditions:
1.The ground is level
2.The sonde is level
3.The Scout Locator is above ground level
4.The Scout Locator is held approximately vertical, antenna mast pointing
straight down.
If these conditions are not met, pay close attention to maximizing signal
strength. In general, if the above conditions are true and if the Scout is
within about two “depths” of the signal source, the map will be useful and
accurate. Be aware of this when using the map if the target or signal source,
is very shallow. The useful search area using the map alone can be small if
the sonde is extremely shallow.
Figure 26
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Micro Map Examples Sonde Mode Scout on the Equator
ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Figure 27 Scout leaves the Equator and approaches the Pole
Figure 28 Scout on the Pole
Figure 29
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Tilted Sondes
If the sonde is tilted, one Pole will move closer to the sonde and the other
farther away so that the sonde location no longer lies midway between the two
poles. The signal strength of the nearer Pole becomes much higher than that of
the more distant Pole. In the extreme as the sonde tilts to vertical, the one
Pole moves to a point directly above the sonde and this Pole will also
correspond to the point of maximum signal strength. The other Pole will not be
seen. Therefore even if the sonde is vertical, as it could be if it fell into
a break in the line or an underground tank, the sonde can still be located.
What is seen on the screen is a Pole of maximum signal strength when the sonde
is vertical.
Figure 30
The multi directional antennas allow the depth to be measured even if the
sonde is tilted. In this circumstance the force depth feature must be used to
take a depth measurement. (See Measuring Depth.)
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 location 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 generates 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.
Figure 31
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. It should
peak and drop off on either side.
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 center. An undistorted
signal emitted from a line is strongest directly over that line.
Figure 32
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 interference that may give
inaccurate readings. Depth readings should be taken as estimates and actual
depths should be verified by exposing the line before digging.
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 pas-
sive line trace icon. 2. The Scout has two (2) passive AC tracing frequencies
that are standard. They are 50Hz and 60Hz.
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Figure 33
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 to a lower frequency. 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 receiving 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.
· While tracing, the signal should maximize, and the depth minimize, at the
same place where the lines centers on the display. If this is not the case,
the utility may be turning or other coupled signals may be present.
Micro Map Example Line Trace
· Higher frequencies bleed over more but may be needed to jump breaks in
tracer wires or go over insulating couplers.
· When using the transmitter inductively, be sure to begin the locate 40 to 50
ft away to avoid “direct coupling”. This is where the Scout will pick up the
signal from the transmitter directly and not from the line to be traced.
Ground
Signal
Energized Pipe
Signal
Bleed Over
Figure 34
While Tracing the micro map assumes the following conditions:
a) The Ground is level b) The Line is level c) The Scout Locator is above
ground level d) The Scout antenna mast is held approximately
vertical
· If these conditions are not met, pay close attention to maximizing signal
strength. In general, if the Scout is within about two “depths” of the line,
the map will be useful and accurate. Be aware of this when using the micro map
if the target or line is very shallow. The useful search area in Micro map can
be small if the line is extremely shallow.
Figure 35
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Notes On Accuracy
Noise
Interfering signals (noise) are simply part of the locating challenge.
Interference can either be at the same frequency being used, or it can be “out
of band” at other frequencies. Some of the largest interfering signals are
generated by power transmission equipment. Power transformers, large electric
motors or generators and lines can be the source of very large noise signals.
Areas that are particularly noisy should be avoided if that is possible.
If the angle display is unstable and not steady, and/or if the signal levels
are not steady, this is a good indication of either no target signal present
(sonde or energized line), or a high level of interfering noise.
Locating Is Not An Exact Science
Locating is not an exact science. It does require the operator to use
judgement and look for all the information available beyond what the
instrument readings may be. The Scout will give the user more information but
it is up to the operator to interpret that information correctly. No locator
manufacturer will claim that an operator should follow the information from
their instrument exclusively.
Conditions when locating accuracy must be questioned:
· When other lines or utilities are present. “Bleed over” may produce
distorted fields and illuminate lines unintentionally. Use lower frequencies
when possible and eliminate all connections between the two lines.
Ground
Signal
Energized Pipe
Signal
Bleed Over
· When signal strength is low. A strong signal is necessary for accurate
locating.
· When soil conditions vary. Extremes in moisture, either too dry or overly
saturated, may affect measurements. For example ground that is saturated with
salty water, that might be found by the coasts, will shield the signal
severely and be very difficult to locate in.
Locating Faulty Components
For troubleshooting suggestions, please refer to the Troubleshooting Guide at
the end of the manual. If necessary, contact Ridge Tool Technical Service at
800-519-3456. We will establish a plan
of action to get your Scout working for you.
Service and Repair
Tool should be taken to a RIDGID Independent Authorized Service Center or
returned to the factory. All repairs made by Ridge service facilities are
warranted against defects in material and workmanship. If you have any
questions regarding the service or repair of this machine, call or write to:
Ridge Tool Company Technical Service Department 400 Clark Street Elyria, Ohio
44035-6001 Tel: 800-519-3456 E-mail:
[email protected]
For name and address of your nearest Independent Authorized Service Center,
contact the Ridge Tool Company at
800-519-3456 or http://www.ridgid.com
Figure 36
· When using the transmitter inductively. This gives the line a weak signal.
Use a direct connection whenever possible.
· When Ts or splits are present in the line. Can cause distortions in the
signal.
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Chart 1 Troubleshooting
PROBLEM
PROBABLE FAULT LOCATION
Scout locks up during use.
Turn the unit OFF, then back ON. Remove the batteries if the unit will not turn OFF.
While tracing, lines are “jumping” all over the screen in micro map.
This indicates that the Scout is not picking up the signal or there is interference. Make sure that the transmitter is well connected and grounded. Point the Scout at either lead to be sure that you have a complete circuit. Try a higher frequency. Try to determine the source of any noise and eliminate it.
While locating a sonde, lines are “jumping” all over the screen.
Check the batteries in the sonde to see that they are working.
Verify signal by placing lower antenna close to sonde. Note – Sondes have
difficulty emitting signals through cast iron and ductile iron lines.
Distance between sonde and either Pole is not equal.
Sonde may be tilted or there may be a cast iron to plastic transition.
Unit acts erratic, won’t power down.
Batteries may be low. Replace with fresh batteries and turn ON.
Display appears completely dark, or completely light when it is turned ON.
Try Powering the unit OFF and then back ON. Adjust the LCD screen contrast.
There is no sound.
Adjust the sound level in the sound menu.
Scout will not pick up the Check that the correct mode and frequency is set. signal.
Scout will not turn on.
Check orientation of batteries. Check that the batteries are charged. Check to see that the battery contacts are OK. Unit may have blown a fuse. (Factory service is required.)
Depth appears inaccu- Check locate mode. Example: if locating a line
rate.
if in heavily distorted environment.
in 512Hz make sure not in Sonde
Mode. (Check
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Appendix A
Understanding Sondes and The Scout
Electrical fields emitted by buried objects can be of two types; the first
type, is emitted by long conductors such as energized wires, inspection camera
push cables or pipes. These objects produce a long cylindrical field and this
is often referred to as “Line” tracing.
In fact, if the Earth were turned on its side, its magnetic field would look a lot like the field from a sonde.
Figure 1 The field emitted by a charged line.
(Passive, AC Tracing is just a special case where the line is “energized” with
electrical power.)
The second type, sondes, (also called transmitters, beacons, or active duct
probes) emit a differently shaped field and the Scout is programmed to measure
and display this type of field. The more complex field shape of a sonde, is
called a dipole field, and is the same as that produced by a bar magnet and
our planet Earth.
Figure 3
As a locator, the Scout can measure the shape (angle) of the field lines from
a sonde and identify distinct characteristics of these lines. Three important
characteristics are the two POLES and the EQUATOR. At the Poles the angle of
the signal is 90 degrees (vertical). At the Equator it is 0 (horizontal).
Poles are distinct points in space, while the Equator wraps completely around
the sonde. Since these distinct characteristics are constant, they can be used
to accurately pinpoint the location of the sonde.
Pole
Pole
Equator
Ground
Figure 2 The dipole field emitted by a sonde. 18
Figure 4
Poles usually occur where conventional locators would experience “nulls”, the
dead spots that occur when the signal passes through their antennas
vertically. The difference is that Scout can “see” the Poles (“nulls”) and
show you where they are, even when you’re not directly over them, and no
matter how Scout’s antennas are aligned with the signal. This is one reason
why locating with Scout is so much easier than with conventional locators. If
vertical the sonde is located at the point where the Equator passes directly
between the two Poles.
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Electromagnetic fields have three (3) important properties, frequency,
strength and angle (direction). Unlike conventional locators, which can only
measure strength in the direction of the individual antenna(s), the Scout
measures both signal strength and field angles in three dimensions (3D). This
enhanced capability makes the mapping display possible. The experienced
operator can use this additional information to speed the locating process and
to help sort out complex locating situations. On the other hand, the
occasional or novice user, can easily locate using signal strength alone.
The Scout locating rule #1 is make the number big! — Maximizing signal
strength is the key, primary locating method.
ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Figure 5 Example of how the Scout maximizes directly over the sonde.
Whether line tracing or locating a sonde, maximum signal strength occurs over
the target. Depth is displayed when over the target.
Ridge Tool Company
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ScoutTM Sonde and Line Locator
Appendix B
Other Useful Information
Signal Interference Distorted Fields Sometimes a single field may encounter
metal or other ferrous material in the ground that may distort the field
lines. It may be another utility, buried scrap or old unused lines that can
shunt or shorten the field lines. In this case the Scout may display a weaker
signal around the object and a stronger signal directly above it. The object
may act as a lens that amplifies or weakens signal unpredictably.
Figure 1
Composite Fields Composite fields are also possible. Where a single field
meets another, the two, or more, may create a stronger signal. It is important
for operators to understand this around “Ts” or right angles in the line,
where composite fields are often encountered.
Figure 2 Composite field shown around a connection in the line.
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