User's Manual Part 2

Troubleshooting
G
ATEKEEPER SYSTEMS INC.
2007
CART CONTAINMENT MANUAL
Page 70
Antenna Troubleshooting with a Tone Generator and Probe
One way of finding a break in the perimeter loop is by using a tone generator and probe combination. This tool is
used in the telecommunication industry to locate phone cables and designate pairs, but is also very useful for
locating breaks in the perimeter antenna.
Gatekeeper Systems recommends the Progressive Electronics 77HP Tracer 2 Tone Generator and the
Progressive Electronics 200EP Speaker Probe. The benefits of these models are in the features of the probe:
• 2” speaker with adjustable volume,
• Red LED visual signal strength indicator,
• Terminals to accommodate headsets.
The tone generator and probe can be purchased as a kit, or as separate components. Both configurations are
shown below. Each component requires a separate 9-volt battery.
The tone generator and probe should always be used with a set of headphones, as ambient noise makes it
difficult to hear the subtle tone changes that indicate a break or short.
Tone generator and probe
To detect perimeter antenna breaks using the tone generator and probe:
1. Connect the tone generator to the two antenna output leads in the loop. This generates a signal down both
sides of the loop.
2. Turn the tone generator on and then follow the perimeter loop with the speaker probe held near the
perimeter wire.
3. When you reach an area where the volume of the tone drops way down, mark the spot.
4. Continue walking slowly until the volume picks back up. Make a second mark.
5. In a single loop configuration with 2,000 or more feet the distance between the two marks is usually 7 to 10
feet. The damaged section will be found in the center third.