OPE R ATION M ANUAL RD7000™+ R a d i o d e t e ct i o n ’ s u t i l i t y s p e c i f i c ca b l e a n d p i p e lo cato r s 9 0 / R D 7 K + - OP M AN - EN G / 0 3 ISSUE 3 02/2014 R e a d a n d u n d e r s ta n d t h i s m a n ua l p r i o r to o p e r at i n g t h E sys t e m
To see the full range of products and services provided by Radiodetection visit: www.radiodetection.com © 2014 Radiodetection Ltd. All rights reserved. Radiodetection is a subsidiary of SPX Corporation. SPX, the green “>” and “X” are trademarks of SPX Corporation, Inc. Radiodetection, RD7000, RD8000, RD4000, eCAL, Centros, TruDepth, SideStep, SideStepauto and StrikeAlert are either trademarks of Radiodetection in the United States and/or other countries.
Preface Before you begin Safety Thank you for your interest in Radiodetection’s RD7000+ cable and pipe locator. This equipment shall be used by fully qualified and trained personnel only. The RD7000+ delivers the very latest in cable and pipe location technology in a powerful yet ergonomic and lightweight design. Radiodetection locators detect almost all buried cables and most conductors, but there are some which do not radiate signals and which Radiodetection locators cannot detect.
Extended warranty Thank you for purchasing the RD7000+ locator and transmitter. RD7000+ locators and transmitters are covered by a 1 year warranty. Customers can extend the warranty to 3 years by registering each product. For more details regarding the Extended Warranty, please see Section 9 of this manual.
Table of contents 3.6.2 Active frequencies 8 3.6.3 Selecting frequencies 9 Preface i 3.7 TruDepth™ measurement 9 Before you begin i 3.8 SideStepauto™ 9 Important notices i 3.8.1 Using SideStepauto 9 General i 3.9 Dynamic Overload Protection 9 Safety i 3.10 StrikeAlert Batteries i 10 ™ 3.10.1 Using StrikeAlert 10 Extended warranty ii 3.11 Antenna modes 10 eCAL ii 3.12 Backlight 10 Training ii 3.13 Audio 10 Section 1 – Introduction 1 3.
.2.3 Finding a good ground point 6.3 Double-ended connections 6.3.1 Making a double-ended connection 21 9.5.1 General 34 22 9.5.2 Batteries and power supply 34 22 9.5.3 Cleaning 34 9.5.4 Disassembly 34 9.5.5 Service and maintenance 34 Section 7 – Using Accessories 23 7.1 About accessories 23 7.2 Locator clamps 23 Section 10 – Appendices 35 7.2.1 When to use clamps 23 10.1 Specifications for the locator and transmitter 35 7.2.2 Connecting a clamp 23 10.
Section 1 – Introduction 1.1 About this manual This manual provides cable and pipe survey professionals with comprehensive operating instructions for the RD7000+ locator and transmitter system. Before operating the RD7000+ system it is very important that you read this manual, noting all safety warnings and procedures. 1.1.1 Additional documentation This manual introduces the Centros Manager software suite but provides only limited installation and operating instructions.
Figure 2.1: RD7000+ locator 2 1 3 4 5 6 Figure 2.2: locator keypad Figure 2.
Section 2 – System overview 2.1 RD7000+ locator 2.1.1 Locator features 1. Keypad. 2. LCD with auto backlight. 3. Speaker. 4. Battery compartment. 22. Compass: Shows the direction of the located cable relative to the locator. 23. Null / Peak icon: Indicates antenna selection. 24. Sonde icon: Indicates that the signal source is from a sonde. 5. Accessory slot. 25. Line icon: Indicates that the signal source is from a line. 6. Headphone jack. 26. Current / depth indicator. 2.1.2 Locator keypad 7.
Figure 2.4 RD7000+ transmitter 2 1 3 Figure 2.5: Rechargeable battery pack 4 Figure 2.7 transmitter LCD Figure 2.
2.2 Tx-1, Tx-5 and Tx-10 transmitters 2.2.1 Transmitter features 1. Keypad. 2. LCD. 3. Removable accessory tray. 4. Rechargeable battery pack. 2.2.2 Transmitter keypad 5. Power key : Switches the unit on and off. Opens the transmitter menu. 6. Frequency key navigation key. : Selects frequency. Menu : Adjusts the output 7. Up and down arrows signal. Scrolls through the menu options. 8. Measure key : Toggles measurement display between volts, current and impedance.
Section 3 – Basic operation 3.1 Starting the system The locator and transmitter are battery powered. Install good quality D-cell (LR20) NiMH or Alkaline batteries into the locator and transmitter battery compartments or install the appropriate rechargeable battery pack. Alternatively, you can power the transmitter from a mains or vehicle power source using a Radiodetection supplied adapter. To switch the locator or the transmitter on, press and hold the keypad Power Key for two seconds.
3.2.2 Language The locator and transmitter support a number of languages. You can specify your preferred language using the menu system. key momentarily to enter the menu. 2. Scroll to the LANG option using the arrow keys. 3. Press the antenna key ( the LANG submenu. on the transmitter) to enter 4. Scroll up or down using the your preferred language. or arrows to select key to accept your selection and return 5. Press the to the main menu. 6. Press the screen. key to return to the main operation 3.
3.3.3 Navigating the transmitter menu 1. First power up the transmitter. 2. Press the 3. Use the options. 4. Press the key to enter the menu. or arrows to scroll through the menu key to enter the option’s submenu. key to return to the previous level or 5. Press the exit the menu. 6. Press the screen. key to return to the main operation Transmitter menu option WARNING! Wearing headphones may impede your awareness to dangers in the field such as moving traffic or other heavy machinery.
the hazard and guard exposed conductors to prevent accidental contact. 3.6.3 Selecting frequencies It is important to select the correct or appropriate frequency for your particular application. For more information see Section 6 or refer to the “ABC & XYZ of locating buried pipes and cables”, which is available as a free download from www.radiodetection.com. To select a frequency on the locator: 1. Switch the unit on by pressing the have not already done so.
3.10 StrikeAlert™ 3.12 Backlight StrikeAlert detects shallow pipes or cables and warns the operator with an audible alarm and visual display. The alarm is characterized by a rapid warbling sound and a flashing operating mode indicator. StrikeAlert is enabled by default; you can enable and disable StrikeAlert using the procedure detailed below. NOTE: StrikeAlert will not sound when the locator’s volume is muted. To disable StrikeAlert key to enter the menu. 3. Scroll to the ALERT option using the 4.
3.14 Transmitter power output 3.15 Transmitter ECO mode The transmitter supports several power output modes to help you select the optimal settings for your requirements whilst helping to prolong battery life. In ECO mode the power output of the transmitter reduces when the batteries can no longer provide the required output power. 3.14.1 Adjusting power output To adjust the power output: 1. Switch on the transmitter. or 2. Press the power output.
Section 4 – Locating cables and pipes This section introduces the principals and techniques of locating buried cable and pipe utilities with the RD7000+ system. For more information on the theory of cable and pipe location, please refer to “ABC & XYZ of locating buried pipes and cables”, which is available from www.radiodetection.com 4.1 Antenna modes The RD7000+ system supports three antenna modes to suit your particular application or the local environment.
4.3 Trace Figure 4.2: Pinpointing a target line Line tracing can be accelerated by switching the locator to null response. Move the locator left and right while walking along the path of the line to observe the null directly over the line and a peak response to each side of the line. As you move the locator over the line, the left and right arrows (and an accompanying tone) will indicate if the target line is to the left or right of the locator.
Switch to null response mode and move the locator to find the null position. If the position of the peak and the null pinpoints correspond, it can be assumed that the pinpoint is precise. The pinpoint is not precise if the marks do not correspond, but both marks will show an error to the same side. True line position will be close to peak position. Figure 4.4: Passive sweep The line lies half the distance to the other side of the peak position as the distance between the peak and the null positions. 4.
Figure 4.5: Inductive search The second person holds the locator at the start of the area to be searched and with the locator antennae at right angles to the probable direction of the buried lines. Set the locator sensitivity level as high as possible without the locator picking up any airborne signals directly from the transmitter. When the transmitter and locator are in line both operators start to move forward in parallel.
Section 5 – Depth and current readings 5.1 Depth readings The RD7000+ can measure the depth of buried conductors down to depths of approximately 6 meters (20 feet) for a line, or 15 meters (50 feet) when using a sonde. RD7000+ will locate to greater depths but accuracy may be reduced. The depth measurement is to the center of the pipe or cable. The best readings are detected from signals outputted by a transmitter rather than from passive sources.
5.2 Verifying depth measurements Check a suspect or critical depth reading by lifting the locator 50mm (2 inches) above the ground and repeating the measurement. If the measured depth increases by the same amount it is a good indication that the depth reading is correct. Depth measurements should be accurate to ±5% if conditions are suitable.
5.3 Current readings 5.3.1 Identification using current measurements Measuring current value on a line helps confirm the identity of the line and provides information about the condition of cable insulation or pipe coating. 5.3.2 About current measurements The transmitter applies a signal or current onto a target line. The current decreases in strength as the distance from the transmitter increases. This rate of decrease depends on the type of line and on soil conditions.
5.3.3 Applying a transmitter signal The transmitter signal can be connected, clamped or induced to the target line in the same way as the signal for line tracing is applied. Figure 5.7: Current readings using transmitter signals mA mA mA 5.3.4 Signal current measurements Pinpoint the line and confirm the accuracy of the peak pinpoint with a null pinpoint. Check the locator is directly over the line, with the antennae at right angles to it and vertical.
Section 6 – General Locating tips 6.1 Eliminating services 6.1.1 Induction If several conductors are running parallel and it is not possible to connect a transmitter, each line may be located separately. Proceed as follows: 1. Perform a sweep of the area to find the position and number of conductors in the area. 2. Map the direction in which the conductors are going. To trace the lines: 1. Select induction mode on the transmitter. 2. Select the same frequency as on the locator. 3.
• Avoid applying the signal by induction. The signal may be coupling to more than one line directly from the transmitter. Use the signal clamp where possible. • Identify points where lines may be bonded or in close proximity to each other. Work toward these points rather than away from them. For example, if gas and water pipes are bonded within a building, apply the signal at the valves or access points in the road rather than in the building.
6.3 Double-ended connections Large diameter water pipes and gas distribution pipes that are laid in sections sometimes have insulated joints between the sections and can be difficult to locate using a single ended connect. This is because when using a single ended connection ground return, signals can often cause confusion by returning to the transmitter along other lines.
Section 7 – Using Accessories 7.1 About accessories Both the transmitter and locator are compatible with a wide range of accessories, including the relevant RD7000/RD8000/RD4000 accessories. Use clamps to help apply a signal to pipeline or live wire. Use an AFrame to provide the RD7000+ locator with advanced fault-finding capabilities. When an accessory is connected, the locator or transmitter will instantly recognize it and will enable the mode appropriate to the accessory.
7.2.3 Available locator clamps Standard clamp The clamp plugs into the locator accessory socket and is used for cable identification at points where the cable can be accessed. The standard clamp is suitable for cables up to 100mm (4 inches) diameter. Figure 7.2: Standard clamp 7.3.1 Connecting the clamp Plug the clamp into the transmitter output socket. Put the clamp around the pipe or cable and ensure that the jaws are closed. Switch the transmitter on.
7.3.2 Available transmitter clamps 7.4.2 Choosing a suitable sonde Although transmitter and locator clamps look the same, they have different internal windings. To prevent the wrong clamp being connected, transmitters and locator clamps have plugs of a different orientation. Check that the sonde has sufficient range for the application and is dimensionally small enough and sufficiently robust for the application.
7.4.5 Locating and tracing a sonde Figure 7.6: Sonde deployment Insert the sonde in the drain or duct access and locate it while it is still just in view at the drain or duct entrance. Hold the locator vertical directly over the sonde with the antenna in line with the sonde. Adjust the locator sensitivity so the bar graph reads between 60% and 80%. The sonde radiates a peak field from the center of its axis with a ghost signal at each end of the peak.
7.4.6 Checking sonde depth Sewer sonde The RD7000+ locator will automatically display the depth of a located sonde providing the locator is correctly oriented and positioned above the sonde. Using the LCD compass as a guide, rotate the locator until the compass indicates the sonde is in East/West position. This sonde incorporates a very strong housing and makes the sonde suitable for use in municipal sewer systems. The sonde has a long life for daily use in all conditions. Figure 7.
7.5 Stethoscopes 7.5.1 When to use a stethoscope At times, it may not be possible to put a locator clamp around a cable because of congestion or because of inaccessibility. A stethoscope antenna should be used in the place of the clamp to identify cables. 7.5.2 How to use a stethoscope Plug the stethoscope into the locator accessory socket. Press the concave head against each cable in turn to detect a maximum signal. 7.5.
Tips for using a submersible antenna The user in the boat should be a specialist or have considerable experience using a locator so that they can give concise instructions to the diver. It is prudent for the pair to practice working together on dry land before attempting to locate underwater. Using the antenna the diver should locate and trace a known line blindfolded receiving directions from the user with the locator out of sight of the line and the diver.
Section 8 – Fault-Finding 8.1 About fault-finding The RD7000TL+ and RD7000PL+ models are capable of locating cable to ground faults caused by damaged cable sheaths. This process is known as “8K Fault-Finding” as it uses an 8kHz signal applied to a target line with a transmitter. The accessory A-frame is used to locate cable sheath faults on power and telecom cables.
NOTE. To establish how often to take readings on the cable, move away from the ground stake and take further readings until the arrow has difficulty in locking and the dB reading is low. Measure the distance that the locator is now away from the ground stake. This is the distance that you can safely use between taking readings on the cable to ensure that you do not miss the fault. 8.
Section 9 – Extended Warranty, eCAL™ and Maintenance 9.1 Product Registration and Extended Warranty Your RD7000+ locator and transmitter are supplied with a 1 year warranty as standard. Radiodetection offers a free upgrade to a 3 year extended warranty on RD7000+ locators and the Tx range of transmitters through registration on www.radiodetection.com within 3 months of purchase. Registered products also receive free product software upgrades through Centros Manager as they are released; see sections 9.
To validate your RD7000+, you must first carry out the following: • • • Register your RD7000+ locator at: www.radiodetection.com/extendedwarranty. See section 9.4 for more details. Purchase an eCAL™ key at: www.radiodetection.com/ecal or alternatively contact your local Radiodetection representative. Download Centros Manager at: www.radiodetection.com/centrosmanager. See page 13 for details. 9.3.1 Using eCAL™ to validate the RD7000+ 1.
9.5 Care and maintenance The RD7000+ locator and transmitter is robust, durable and weatherproof. However you can extend your equipment’s life by following these care and maintenance guidelines. 9.5.1 General Store the equipment in a clean and dry environment. Regularly validate your equipment using eCAL. Validation ensures the equipment is valid according to its original factory calibration. (See Section 9.
Section 10 – Appendices 10.1 Specifications for the locator and transmitter Sensitivity 5µA at 1 meter (33kHz) Dynamic range 140dB rms /√Hz Selectivity 120dB/Hz Depth accuracy Line: ± 5% tolerance 0.1m to 3m (4" to 10ft) Sonde: ±5% tolerance 0.
10.3 Supported accessories Description Part Number Transmitter Accessories UK plug connector 10/AC1231-4KTX-LPC-UK European plug connector 10/AC1231-4KTX-LPC-EUR Live cable connector 10/AC1231-4KTX-LCC 2" (50mm) Transmitter Clamp 10/TC2136-4KTX 4" (100mm) Transmitter Clamp 10/TC1769-4KTX 8.
Description Part Number Sondes and accessories Standard Sonde 33kHz depth 5m 10/SC0412-33R Sewer Sonde 33kHz depth 8m 10/SA0337-33R Super Sonde 33kHz depth 15m 10/SB0338-33R Slim Sonde 33kHz depth 3.
Description Part Number Batteries and rechargeables D-Cell Alkaline Battery (LR20, MN1300) 04/MN1300 Transmitter Li-ion rechargeable battery pack 10/TXRBATPACK Transmitter Li-ion rechargeable battery pack (Inc. mains, 12V chargers and lead) (US cordset) 10/TXRBATPACKKIT-US Transmitter Li-ion rechargeable battery pack (Inc. mains, 12V chargers and lead) (UK cordset) 10/TXRBATPACKKIT-UK Transmitter Li-ion rechargeable battery pack (Inc.
Section 11 – Notices Copyright statement © 2014 Radiodetection Ltd. All rights reserved. Radiodetection is a subsidiary of SPX Corporation. SPX, the green “>” and “X” are trademarks of SPX Corporation, Inc. Radiodetection, RD7000, RD7000+, RD8000, RD4000, eCAL, Centros, TruDepth, SideStep, SideStepauto and StrikeAlert are trademarks of Radiodetection Ltd. The Bluetooth word, mark and logos are registered trademarks of Bluetooth Sig, Inc. and any use of such trademarks by Radiodetection is under license.
RD7000+ R a d i o d e t e ct i o n ’ s u t i l i t y s p e c i f i c ca b l e a n d p i p e lo cato r s Global locations USA E u rope A s i a - Pac i f i c Spx Global Headquarters Radiodetection Ltd. (UK) Radiodetection (Asia-Pacific) 13515 Ballantyne Corporate Place Western Drive, Bristol BS14 0AF, UK Room 708, CC Wu Building Charlotte, NC 28277, USA Tel: +44 (0) 117 976 7776 302-308 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai Tel: +1 704 752 4400 Fax: +44 (0) 117 976 7775 Hong Kong SAR, China www.spx.com rd.
