User's Manual

DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED

36 DigiTrak Falcon



Operator’s Manual

background interference reading. For example, if this area of greatest interference produced

a signal strength reading of 175, the reading with the transmitter on at this location, and at a

distance from the receiver equal to the maximum intended bore depth, should be a minimum

of 325 (175 + 150).

Note that the transmitter’s signal strength will be slightly higher in this test than while drilling

because it is currently not encased in the drill head, which will diminish the signal strength

slightly.

Areas where the background noise level is too high may make it difficult to obtain roll and

pitch data and accurate locates and depth. If the receiver signal strengths were not strong,

conduct a roll/pitch check as described in the following section.

Roll/Pitch Check

With a strong signal, this test isn't always necessary

If the receiver signal strengths are well above the minimum, a roll/pitch test isn't entirely required.

But as best practice, or if sections of the bore produce significantly decreased signal strength, this

is an important check prior to drilling.

At the exit end of the bore path, turn the receiver to face the launch point and install

batteries in the paired transmitter to turn it on. Have a coworker hold the transmitter

and stand beside you. Walk together in parallel back toward the launch point, keeping

the receiver over the bore path and the transmitter at a distance of 1 to 1.5 times the

current intended bore depth; where the bore is deeper, your coworker will be farther

away. Periodically stop and change the transmitter’s roll and pitch orientation so you

can verify the speed and accuracy of these readings on the receiver. It is good

practice to also have a coworker monitor the readings at the remote display at the

same time. Note any locations where the receiver or remote display information

becomes erratic or disappears. If roll/pitch data or signal strength become unstable,

hold the trigger to see if Max Mode can stabilize the data.

Max Mode

Page 31

Two-Person Roll/Pitch Test with Transmitter

Intended bore path

Intended

depth

Red flag area