RIDGID Metal Detector SR 60 User Guide

®
SeekTech SR-60  
Pipe, Cable and Sonde Locator  
Patents Pending  
Operator’s  
Manual  
WARNING!  
Read this operator’s manual  
carefully before using this  
tool. Failure to understand  
and follow the contents of  
this manual may result in  
electrical shock, fire and/or  
serious personal injury.  
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SeekTech SR-60  
®
SeekTech SR-60  
Pipe, Cable and Sonde Locator  
®
SeekTech SR-60  
Record the Serial Number of your unit below and retain for your records.  
See Information screen for serial number and software version.  
Serial  
Number  
Software  
Version  
Ridge Tool Company Elyria, Ohio U.S.A  
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SeekTech SR-60  
General Safety Information  
WARNING  
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.  
Read and understand all instructions. Failure to  
follow all instructions listed below may result  
in electric shock, fire, and/or serious personal  
injury!  
Personal Safety  
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS  
Stay alert, watch what you are doing,  
and use common sense. Do not use  
diagnostic tools while tired or under the  
influence of drugs, alcohol, or  
medications. A moment of inattention  
while operating diagnostic instruments  
may result in serious personal injury.  
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  
Gloves should always be worn for  
health and safety reasons. Sewer  
lines are unsanitary and may contain  
harmful bacteria and viruses.  
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.  
Do not overreach. Keep proper  
footing and balance at all times.  
Proper footing and balance enables  
better control of the tool in unexpected  
situations.  
Keep bystanders, children, and  
visitors away while operating tool.  
Distractions can cause you to lose  
control.  
Use safety equipment. Always wear  
eye protection. Dust mask, non-skid  
safety shoes, hardhat, or hearing  
protection must be used for appropriate  
conditions.  
Electrical Safety  
Do not operate the system with  
electrical components removed.  
Exposure to internal parts increases the  
risk of injury.  
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.  
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.  
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.  
Do not probe high voltage lines.  
Battery Precautions  
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.  
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  
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SeekTech SR-60  
instructions may create  
electrical shock or injury.  
a
risk of  
SR-60 Use and Care  
Follow instructions for changing  
accessories. Accidents are caused by  
poorly maintained equipment.  
Use equipment only as directed. Do  
not operate the SR-60 unless you have  
read the operator’s manual.  
Provide proper cleaning. Remove  
battery before cleaning. Do not use  
liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use  
a damp cloth for cleaning.  
Do not immerse the antennas in  
water. Store in a dry place. This will  
reduce the risk of electric shock and  
instrument damage.  
Conduct  
a
safety check. Upon  
Store idle equipment out of the  
reach of children and other  
untrained persons. Equipment is  
dangerous in the hands of untrained  
users.  
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.  
Maintain the instrument with care.  
Properly maintained diagnostic  
instruments are less likely to cause  
injury.  
Damage to the product that requires  
service. Remove the batteries and  
refer servicing to qualified service  
personnel under any of the following  
conditions:  
Check for breakage of parts, and any  
other conditions that may affect the  
SR-60’s operation. If damaged, have  
the instrument serviced before using.  
Many accidents are caused by poorly  
maintained tools.  
o
If liquid has been spilled or objects  
have fallen into product;  
o
If product does not operate normally  
by  
following  
the  
operating  
instructions;  
o
o
If the product has been dropped or  
damaged in any way;  
When the product exhibits a distinct  
change in performance.  
Use only accessories that are  
recommended by the manufacturer  
for the SR-60. Accessories that may  
be suitable for one instrument may  
become hazardous when used on  
another.  
Keep handles dry and clean, and  
free from oil and grease. Allows for  
better control of the instrument.  
CAUTION  
Remove batteries entirely before shipping.  
Protect against excessive heat. The  
product should be situated away from  
heat sources such as radiators, heat  
registers, stoves, or other products that  
produce heat.  
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  
Service  
Elyria, Ohio 44035-6001  
Tel: (800) 519-3456  
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 diagnostic  
a
instrument, use only identical  
replacement parts. Follow instructions  
in the maintenance section of this  
manual. Use of unauthorized parts or  
failure  
to  
follow  
maintenance  
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SeekTech SR-60  
DANGER  
Important Notice  
The SR-60 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 its  
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 SR-60.  
In any correspondence, please give all the  
information shown on the nameplate of your locator  
including model number and serial number.  
DANGER  
Important Notice  
Always insert and connect the earth grounding rods  
before turning on the transmitter. Never pull out an  
earth grounding rod as long as the generator is  
switched on! Never pull the earth grounding rod or  
disconnect the ground lead if the other lead is  
connected to a utility.  
4
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SeekTech SR-60  
SR-60 Components  
Figure 1: SR-60 Components  
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SeekTech SR-60  
NOTE: Avoid dragging the lower antenna node on  
the ground while locating with the SR-60. It may  
cause signal noise which will interfere with  
Introduction to the SR-60  
Getting Started  
Installing/Changing Batteries  
results, and may eventually damage the antenna.  
To install batteries into the SR-60, 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 cover. Insert the batteries  
as shown on the inside decal and make sure they  
drop to full contact. Fit the cover into the case and  
turn the knob clockwise while lightly pressing down to  
close. The battery cover can be installed in either  
orientation.  
Figure 3: Folding Antenna Mast and Release Button  
SR-60 Modes  
The SR-60 operates in three distinct modes. They  
are:  
1. Active Line Trace Mode, used when a  
chosen frequency can be put onto a long  
conductor using a Line Transmitter, for  
locating conductive pipes, lines, or cables.  
2. Passive Trace Mode, used for tracing  
electrical lines that are already carrying 60  
Hz current (U.S.), 50 Hz current (Europe), or  
radio frequencies.  
Figure 2: Battery Case  
When the SR-60 is powered on, it takes a few  
seconds to check the batteries. Until then the battery  
level will show as “empty”.  
3. Sonde Mode, used for locating Sondes in  
pipes, conduits, or tunnels that are non-  
conductive or cannot otherwise be traced.  
CAUTION  
Do not allow debris or moisture into battery  
compartment. Debris or moisture may short  
the battery contacts, leading to rapid discharge  
of the batteries, which could result in  
Note that the two Tracing modes, Active and Passive,  
are identical except for the frequencies used. No  
transmitter is used in Passive Trace mode.  
Display Elements  
electrolyte leakage or risk of fire.  
Beginning operators or experienced operators can  
use the SR-60 with equal ease. While the SR-60  
offers advanced features that make the most  
complex locate easier, many of its features can be  
turned off or hidden, making the SR-60 simple to use  
in basic locating in uncomplicated situations.  
Folding Mast  
To begin operation, unfold the antenna mast and lock  
the folding joint into place. When locating is  
complete, press the red release lever to fold the  
antenna mast for storage.  
The “basic features” of the SR-60 are on by default.  
They can be customized easily to suit the user’s  
requirements. The use of the various elements  
displayed is covered in later sections of this manual.  
IMPORTANT  
Do not snap or whip the SR-60 mast to open or  
close it. Open it and close it by hand only.  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Common Display Elements  
Display Elements: Line Trace Mode  
Figure 4: Common Display Elements  
Figure 5: Display Elements (Line Trace Mode)  
The display screen in Active Line Trace, Passive Line  
Trace or Sonde mode will show the following  
features:  
In Active Line Trace Mode, the following features will  
also be displayed:  
Proximity Signal – Numerical indication  
showing how close the signal source is to the  
locator. Displays from 1 to 999. (Line Trace  
modes only)  
Signal Angle: Field tilt from the  
horizontal; angle toward the field’s center;  
numeric value displayed in degrees.  
Battery Level – Indicates level of  
remaining battery capacity.  
Signal Strength – Strength of signal as  
sensed by the lower Omnidirectional  
antenna.  
Measured Depth/Distance – Displays  
the measured depth when receiver is  
touching the ground directly over signal  
source. Displays computed distance when  
the antenna mast is pointed at a signal  
source in some other manner. Displays  
feet/inches (U.S.A. default) or meters  
(European default).  
Tracing Line – The Tracing Line  
represents the approximate axis of the  
detected field. It represents detected  
distortion in the field by appearing less  
focused. (See page 33 for information on  
setting the sensitivity and how to enable or  
disable the distortion response in the Tracing  
Line.)  
Mode– Icon for Sonde  
, Line Trace  
,
Power (Passive Line Trace) , or Radio  
Distortion Line If the normal  
distortion response of the Tracing Line is  
disabled, a second line is shown, which  
represents the signal from the upper antenna  
node. By comparing the two lines, the user  
can estimate the degree of distortion present  
in a signal. (See page 35.)  
Frequency mode.  
Frequency – Shows current frequency  
setting in hertz or kilohertz.  
+
Crosshairs (Map Center)  
-
shows  
operator’s position relative to the target  
center.  
Guidance Arrows The Guidance  
Arrows serve to steer the operator toward the  
center of the detected field, by showing when  
the signals reaching the left and right  
Guidance Antennas are out of balance or  
equal. The two signals are equal when  
crossing the center of an undistorted field. If  
the signals are unequal, the Guidance  
Arrows show which way the field appears to  
be relative to the receiver.  
mA Current Strength – Proportional to  
current on the line. Switches to Signal Angle  
when Signal Angle is greater than 35°.  
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Guidance Line Shows the alignment of the  
target line and helps determine when the  
locator is directly over the target line. It will  
be longest when directly aligned with the  
target line. Rotation Arrows will appear to  
indicate which way the SR-60 should be  
turned to align it with the field.  
Display Elements: Sonde Mode  
Note: The Tracing Line reflects the approximate axis  
of the conductor being traced, but is modified by a  
degree of “distortion” in the form of varying  
cloudiness, or loss of focus, in the Tracing Line. The  
Tracing Line will appear to grow unfocused in  
proportion to the distortion in the field being detected.  
It ranges from a clear line (no distortion present),  
through slightly distorted, to moderately un-focused,  
growing to a wide, cloud-like band of particles  
depending on the degree of distortion in the detected  
field. It represents the best possible calculation of the  
location and bearing of the line combined with the  
degree of distortion sensed by the receiver’s  
Omnidirectional Antennas.  
Figure 6: Display Elements: Sonde Mode  
In Sonde mode, the screen elements include several  
features that are unique to Sonde locating.  
Signal Strength – Strength of signal as  
sensed by the lower Omnidirectional  
antenna.  
| | Pipe Direction  
Represents the  
approximate direction of the pipe in which the  
Sonde is lying.  
When the distortion response of the tracing line is  
turned off, a separate Distortion Line will be  
displayed. The Distortion Line can be used to analyze  
distortion when it is out of alignment with the Tracing  
Line. (The dashed line can be disabled separately, as  
well, which will leave a single Tracing Line displayed  
with no distortion response).  
Sonde Icon  
approaching the location of a Sonde.  
Appears when  
Equator – Represents the mid-line of  
the Sonde’s field perpendicular to the axis of  
the Poles. (See page 26).  
Pole Icon – Represents the location of  
either of the two Poles of the Sonde’s dipole  
field. (See page 26).  
The default setting is to have the distortion response  
enabled in the Tracing Line. This incorporates the  
information provided by these two lines into a single,  
easy-to-read presentation, making the SR-60 easier  
to use.  
Zoom Ring – Appears when the locator  
moves close to a Pole.  
The use of these features is described in the Active  
Line Tracing, Passive Line Tracing, and Sonde  
Locating sections.  
(For more information about distortion, see pages 33  
and 39.)  
Note: The screen elements in Passive Trace Mode  
are the same as those seen in Active Line Trace  
mode. Mode is determined by the type of target  
source (Sonde or Line). For example, selecting the  
512 Hz frequency from the Sonde mode section of  
the frequency menu puts the SR-60 into Sonde  
mode. (A frequency which appears in more than one  
category, such as 33 kHz, must be selected from the  
correct category).  
Default Frequencies  
The Master Frequency Menu contains a large set of  
frequencies, but only some of these are made  
currently available. They are made “Currently  
Available” by checking them in the Master Frequency  
Menu.  
The frequencies which are currently available will  
appear on the Main Menu when the Menu Key  
pressed.  
is  
Currently available frequencies can be checked in the  
Main Menu, in which case they will appear when  
using the Frequency Key . If they are unchecked in  
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SeekTech SR-60  
the Main Menu, they will not appear when using the  
Frequency Key to cycle through frequencies.  
Keypad  
Frequencies which appear in the Main Menu and are  
checked for activation are called “Checked-Active”.  
Frequencies that are “Checked-Active” can be cycled  
through simply by pressing the Frequency Key  
(see Figure 7). A frequency chosen by pressing the  
Frequency Key becomes the “In Use” frequency.  
Frequencies currently available by default include:  
Sonde Mode  
512 Hz*  
Active Line Trace Mode:  
Figure 7: Keypad  
128 Hz*  
Power/Right Key – Powers SR-60 on.  
1 kHz*  
Powers the SR-60 down after a 3-second  
countdown. The countdown can be  
interrupted before shutdown by pressing any  
key. Used to move to the right in some  
screens.  
8 kHz*  
33 kHz*  
93 kHz*  
Up and Down Keys – Used for  
locating choices during menu selection; used  
for setting volume level when the Volume  
Control Key has been pressed. If Signal  
Focus is activated, the Up and Down Keys  
will change the Signal Focus setting up and  
down.  
262 kHz*  
Power (Passive Line Trace Mode):  
60 Hz (9th) *  
< 4 kHz *  
Radio Frequency  
Select Key – Used to make a choice  
during Menu selection; in normal operation,  
to force a Measured Depth reading and re-  
center audio tone. Can be used to force a  
“quick-check” trace-line and Measured Depth  
display.  
4 kHz—15 kHz (L) *  
15 kHz – 35kHz (H) *  
OmniSeek (multi-range <4kHz – 35kHz)*  
Menu Key Used to display a “tree” of  
choices including frequency selections,  
display element choices, brightness and  
contrast, and restoring default settings. In a  
menu, will move up one level.  
(* = Checked-Active Frequencies)  
Volume Control Key – Used to raise or  
lower the volume setting; will cycle the  
volume by steps, increasing to maximum and  
then mute. Pressing the Volume Key opens  
the volume control panel if it is closed. When  
open, the control panel will close after ten  
seconds if no keys are pressed. Volume can  
also be raised and lowered using the Up and  
Down Keys when the Volume screen is open.  
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SeekTech SR-60  
This indicates that the batteries need to be changed  
and that the unit will soon shut down. A tone will  
sound at ten-minute intervals.  
Frequency / Left Key Used to set the  
In-Use Frequency of the SR-60 from the set  
of Checked-Active frequencies. Each short  
press cycles to the next Checked-Active  
frequency. (The list of frequencies that have  
been set to Checked-Active status can be  
modified via the Menu Key.)  
A long press on the Frequency Key  
will  
display a scrollable list of all currently active  
frequencies to choose from, by highlighting  
and pressing Select again.  
Figure 9: Low-Battery Warning  
Just before complete shut down there will be a non-  
interruptible power down sequence. An extended  
buzz will sound when the SR-60 is about to go into  
shutdown sequence.  
Note: Voltage on rechargeable batteries may  
sometimes drop so quickly that the unit will just  
shut down. The unit will power down and restart.  
Just replace the batteries and power the unit back  
on.  
Figure 8: Scrollable List of Frequencies  
Light Sensor – In Automatic mode, the light  
sensor controls when the backlight goes on  
or off depending on ambient light. Placing a  
thumb over the light sensor will force the  
backlight on.  
Starting Up  
After pressing the Power Key  
on the keypad, the  
RIDGID logo displays, and the software version  
number will appear in the lower right corner of the  
screen.  
Operation Time  
Using alkaline cells, typical operation time is from  
about 12 to 24 hours depending on 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” last 10%-20% longer  
than conventional alkaline cells under high demand  
applications). Operation at lower temperatures will  
also reduce battery life.  
The SR-60 display can also show random symbols  
when the battery power is too low to drive the internal  
logic circuits correctly. This is remedied by simply  
putting fresh batteries into the unit.  
To preserve battery life, the SR-60 will automatically  
shut down after 1 hour of no key presses. Simply  
power the unit on to resume use.  
Figure 10: Start-up Screen  
Make a note of the software version in the box on  
page 1. If technical support from Ridge is needed, it  
will be helpful to have it available.  
Low Battery Warning  
When the battery gets low, a battery icon will  
periodically appear in the map area on the screen.  
10  
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Each frequency is activated by choosing it from a list  
in the Main Menu (See Figure 14). Frequencies are  
grouped by category:  
Set up  
Once the SR-60 is up and running, the next step is to  
set up the frequencies needed to match the  
transmitter frequency being used, or the frequency of  
the line to be located. Each frequency is selected for  
use by choosing it from a list in the Main Menu. If the  
box on the Main Menu for that frequency is checked,  
the frequency is “Checked-Active”.  
SimulTrace (512 Hz + 33 kHz)  
Sonde  
(if active)  
Active Line Trace  
Power (Passive Line Trace)  
Checked-Active frequencies are already selected for  
use and appear in sequence when pressing the  
Radio  
OmniSeek (multi-RF bands)  
Frequency Key  
. (For example, the line trace  
frequency of 33 kHz is available by pressing the  
Frequency Key and advancing through the list until  
33 kHz is reached.)  
1. Push the Menu Key  
:
NOTE: When a frequency is highlighted in the  
Main Menu, pressing the Frequency Key will  
display its exact frequency value. For example, 8  
kHz = 8192 Hz.  
A long press on the Frequency Key  
will bring up a  
scrollable list of all Checked Active frequencies.  
Figure 13: Menu Key  
The Main Menu screen is then activated:  
Figure 11: Frequency Key  
Figure 14: Main Menu  
2. Using the Up and Down Keys, highlight  
the frequency desired (Figure 15). In this  
example, the operator is activating the 8 kHz  
frequency.  
Figure 12: Line Trace Frequency Selected with  
Frequency Key  
Activating Frequencies  
Frequencies can be chosen for the set of Checked-  
Active frequencies so they will become available  
using the Frequency Key . Frequencies can also be  
deactivated to keep the frequency set smaller.  
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Figure 15: Highlighting a Desired Frequency (8 kHz)  
for activation, see “Frequency Selection Control” on  
page 33.  
3. Press the Select Key  
(shown below) to  
A long press on the Frequency Key  
will bring up a  
check the box for each frequency to be used.  
list of all Checked Active Frequencies. To use one,  
simply scroll down to it and press the Select Key  
.
Note on 93 kHz Frequency Use  
The SR-60 offers two 93 kHz frequencies for Line  
Tracing. The default 93 kHz frequency has an actual  
cycle count of 93,623 cycles per second.  
But some older transmitters use a different value for  
the nominal 93 kHz frequency, 93,696 cycles per  
second. This is found in the SR-60 listed as “93k-B”.  
Figure 16: Select Key  
If you find that your transmitter signal at 93 kHz  
cannot be detected by the SR-60, set the locator’s  
frequency to 93-B kHz, which is set to the older  
value. Both 93 and 93-B frequencies can be found  
under the Line Trace category of the Frequency  
Selection sub-menu.  
Sounds of the SR-60  
The sound level is driven by the proximity to the  
target. The closer to the target, the higher the sound  
pitch will be. A rising tone indicates increasing signal.  
In Active Line Trace or Passive Line Trace mode,  
sound is on one continuous curve and does not re-  
scale.  
Figure 17: Desired Frequency Checked  
In Line Tracing modes, the default distortion  
response also activates an audio signal proportionate  
to the distortion in the detected field. When there is  
no distortion present, the sound of the SR-60 is a  
clear warbling sound when on the left side of the  
detected field, with a slight click added when on the  
right side of the detected field. If distortion is detected  
a sound similar to AM radio static sound can be  
heard, which gets stronger as the degree of distortion  
increases, similar to the unfocusing that signals  
distortion visually around the Tracing Line. If the  
distortion response feature is disabled, the static  
sound does not occur.  
Frequencies that have been selected for use will  
show a check in the box next to them.  
4. Press the Menu Key  
again to accept the  
choice and exit. Letting the unit countdown  
and exit automatically will have the same  
effect.  
In Sonde Mode, if the sound level reaches its highest  
point, it will “re-scale” to a medium level and continue  
signaling from the new starting point.  
In Sonde Mode, the pitch will “ratchet” upward. That  
is, it will rise and then re-scale (fall) in pitch while  
approaching the Sonde. Moving away from the  
Sonde, it will drop to a lower pitch and remain there  
as long as one moves away from the Sonde. Moving  
back toward the Sonde again it will resume rising in  
steps starting from the level it had reached  
previously. This serves as an indication when the  
Figure 18: Menu Key  
The Main Menu lists all frequencies available for  
activation. For information on adding additional  
frequencies to the Main Menu so they can be chosen  
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SeekTech SR-60  
locator receiver is getting closer or further away from  
the Sonde.  
vest on either shoulder. Stereo sound from the  
speakers will fade to the left or right. The louder side  
indicates the direction toward the center of the  
detected field. Sound will balance when over the  
center of the line. The operator can stay centered on  
the line using sound signals instead of the visual  
cues on the screen. The SR-60 comes with clip-on  
speakers designed to be attached to the left and right  
shoulders of a safety vest for this purpose.  
If desired, force the sound to re-center at a medium  
level (in any mode) by pressing the Select Key during  
operation. See also the “Directional Sound” section,  
below.  
Key Items in Using the SR-60  
PROXIMITY SIGNAL reflects the proximity of the  
locator to the target utility; the closer the locator  
moves to the center of the detected field, the higher  
the Proximity Signal number gets. The Proximity  
Signal is calculated from the ratio of the signals  
received at the lower and upper antennas, adjusted  
for scalability.  
Shutting Down  
Pressing the Power Key at any time during operation  
will start a count-down of 3 seconds, during which the  
shut-down tone will sound. At the end of the count-  
down, the SR-60 will shut down.  
SIGNAL STRENGTH represents the strength of the  
field being detected by the lower antenna node of the  
SR-60, converted mathematically for scalability. In a  
clear and undistorted field, you can locate based on  
Signal Strength alone.  
DISTORTION is the degree to which the field  
detected is deformed. In an undistorted environment,  
current on a long conductor produces a field which is  
cylindrical, down the conductor. If multiple fields are  
present, the detected field is pushed or pulled out of  
shape and the different antennas will pick up different  
field strengths. On the SR-60, distortion is reflected  
by the Tracing Line growing unfocused instead of  
sharp, or by disagreement among the Guidance  
Arrows, Tracing Line, and Signal Strength.  
Figure 19: Count-Down Screen (Shutting Down)  
Line Tracing with the SR-60  
There are two major ways to look for lines  
underground with the SR-60. They are called Active  
and Passive. The difference is that in Active Line  
Tracing, a current is placed on a conductor using a  
transmitter, and that specific signal is then sought for  
using the locator. Passive tracing does not use a  
transmitter and seeks for any signal that may be  
picked up at particular frequencies.  
TRACING LINE indicates the direction and degree of  
distortion in the detected field.  
GUIDANCE ARROWS are driven by the signals  
received at the guidance antennas of the SR-60.  
When the fields detected by these side antennas are  
equal, the arrows will center. If one is receiving a  
stronger field signal than the other, the arrows will  
point toward the probable center of the target  
conductor. Moving in the direction indicated by the  
arrows will bring you closer to the center of the  
detected field. A small “guidance line” at the end of a  
guidance arrow indicates the degree of alignment  
with the conductor’s field. It will be at its maximum  
length when correctly aligned with the conductor, with  
the guidance antenna axis crossing the field at 90°.  
Rotational guidance arrows on the perimeter of the  
screen will indicate the direction you need to turn to  
align with the detected conductor.  
Active Line Tracing  
In active line tracing, underground lines are  
energized with a Line Transmitter. This active signal  
is then traced using the SR-60. A Line Transmitter is  
different from a Sonde in that it is used to energize a  
conducting target line, rather than acting as a target  
for a locate itself, the way a Sonde does. Line  
transmitters energize lines by direct connection with  
clips, or by directly inducing the signal using a clamp,  
or by inducing the signal using inductive coils built  
into the transmitter.  
DIRECTIONAL SOUND from stereo speakers will let  
you follow a line by sound, while staying visually alert  
for nearby traffic or obstacles. The Sound Pointer  
speakers are designed to be clipped to a jacket or  
Direct Connect Mode: The transmitter is attached  
by direct metal-to-metal connection to the target  
conductor at some access point such as a valve, a  
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meter, or other point. Important: The connection  
between the transmitter and the conductor must be a  
clean, firm connection. The transmitter is also  
connected to a ground stake providing a strong open  
path to ground. Important:  
A
weak ground  
connection is the most frequent cause of a poor  
tracing circuit. Make sure the transmitter is well  
connected to ground, and has enough exposure to  
the ground to allow current to flow through the circuit.  
Inductive Clamp Mode: The transmitter is  
connected to an inductive clamp which is then closed  
around a pipe or cable. The transmitter energizes the  
clamp, which then induces a current in the conductor.  
Important: Make sure the SR-60 is set to trace mode  
and set to the same frequency as the transmitter. Do  
not clamp onto a live conductor. This mode works  
best when both ends of the conductor are grounded.  
Figure 20: Line Trace Frequency Chosen with the  
Frequency Key (This screen will flash briefly when a  
new frequency is chosen.)  
2. Observe the Proximity Signal to ensure that  
the receiver is picking up the transmitted  
signal. The Proximity Signal should peak over  
the line and drop off on either side.  
Inductive Mode: The transmitter is placed over the  
conductor. There is no direct connection; the internal  
coils of the transmitter generate a strong field through  
When tracing, the direction of the detected  
field will be shown on the screen by the  
Tracing Line. The Tracing Line will be a clear,  
single line if the field being detected is  
undistorted.  
the ground which induces  
a
current in the  
underground conductor of interest. Important: If the  
transmitter is too close to the SR-60 in this mode, it  
can cause “air-coupling” which means the locator is  
reading more on the signal from the transmitter’s  
field, than on the target conductor. (See page 16).  
Note: When using Inductive Mode, it is always  
possible to move the transmitter to a different point  
along the target line. This will sometimes improve the  
circuit and provide a better signal.  
If other fields are interfering in some way, the  
distortion caused by those fields will be  
reflected by a blurring of the Tracing Line.  
The more distorted the detected field, the broader  
the cloud around the Tracing Line will be. This  
alerts the operator that the apparent axis of the  
line may be influenced by other fields, and  
requires careful evaluation.  
The Tracing Line has three important functions.  
It represents the location, and the direction, of the  
signal being traced. It reflects changes in  
direction of the target utility — when the utility  
makes a turn, for example. And it helps recognize  
signal distortion. It does this by becoming  
cloudier as distortion increases. Disagreement  
between different indicators can also indicate  
distortion.  
WARNING  
Connect ground and power leads of the  
transmitter before powering the transmitter on,  
to avoid electric shock. See warning on page 4.  
1. Energize the target conductor according to  
the transmitter manufacturer’s instructions,  
using one of the methods described above.  
Select the transmitter frequency. Set the  
frequency on the SR-60 to the same  
frequency used on the transmitter, using the  
Frequency Key . Be sure the frequency has a  
line trace icon  
. Push the Menu Key  
to  
return to the operating screen. To activate  
frequencies not yet made active, see “Frequency  
Selection Control” on page 33.  
Figure 21: Tracing Line Showing Low Distortion  
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node is placed closer and closer to the target utility.  
Rechecking the Measured Depth and position  
periodically during the excavation process can help  
avoid damage to a target utility and may identify  
additional utility signals that were not noticed prior to  
excavation.  
When line tracing, it is important to remember that  
tees, curves, other conductors in the vicinity, and  
nearby masses of metal can add distortion to the  
field, requiring closer scrutiny of the data to  
determine the true path of the target utility.  
Clarifying the situation can be done by assessing  
whether the distortion is due to a poor signal that  
needs to be improved, a local interference such as a  
near-by car, or a tee or turn in the line.  
Figure 22: Tracing Line Showing High Distortion  
3. Use the Guidance Arrows, Proximity Number,  
Signal Strength, and Tracing Line to guide the  
line trace. These pieces of information are  
generated from discrete signal characteristics to  
help the operator understand the quality of the  
locate. An undistorted signal emitted from a line  
is strongest directly over that line. (Note: Unlike  
the Signal Trace lines, the guidance arrows  
require that the user orient the locator so that the  
guidance arrows point 90 degrees to the Signal  
Trace line. (See Figure 23).  
Circling the last location of a clear signal at a  
distance of about 20 feet (6.5 m) can clarify if the  
distortion is coming from a local turn or tee in the line,  
and enable the operator to again pick up the line  
nearby.  
Always cross check the locate by ensuring that:  
The Tracing Line shows little or no distortion  
response (blurriness).  
Note: an undistorted line will also be clear rather  
than blurred on the screen, and the sound  
accompanying the image will have no “static” in it.  
The Proximity Signal and the Signal strength  
maximize when the Tracing Line crosses the  
map center.  
Note: Confidence in the accuracy of a locate can  
be increased by maximizing the Proximity Signal  
(and/or Signal Strength), balancing the Guidance  
Arrows and centering the Tracing line on the screen.  
Confirm a locate by testing whether the Measured  
Depth reading is stable and reasonable. Agreement  
among all these indicators means the probability of  
an accurate locate is high.  
The Measured Depth increases appropriately  
as the unit is raised vertically and the Tracing  
Line remains aligned.  
Measured Depth readings should be taken as  
estimates and actual depths should be  
independently verified by potholing or other  
means prior to excavating.  
Maximized  
WARNING  
Care should be taken to watch for signal  
interference that may give inaccurate readings.  
The Tracing Line is only representative of the  
position of the buried utility if the field is  
UNDISTORTED. Do NOT base a locate solely on  
the Tracing Line  
Maximized  
If the signal is clear, the SR-60 will often show a  
straight signal line with very little distortion right up to  
a 90-degree tee, show a small amount of distortion  
as it follows around the curve, and then show a clear  
signal again as it resumes its travel after the tee. It  
shows very clearly when the line is turning.  
Figure 23: High Probability Locate  
As always, the only way to be certain of the location  
of a utility is through visual confirmation by exposing  
the utility. The accuracy of position and depth  
measurement improves as the SR-60 lower antenna  
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Measuring Depth (Line Tracing Modes)  
Depth Warnings  
The SR-60 calculates Measured Depth by comparing  
the strength of the signal at the lower antenna to that  
at the upper antenna.  
NOTE: Exposing the utility is the only way to  
verify its existence, location, and depth.  
Certain conditions make depth readings less precise  
or less reliable. When using Pushbutton Depth, a  
warning will appear when these conditions occur:  
Measured Depth is measured correctly in an  
undistorted field when the bottom antenna is touching  
the ground directly above the signal source and the  
antenna mast is vertical.  
Motion of the SR-60 during  
sampling  
1. To measure depth, place the locator on the  
ground, directly above the Sonde or the line.  
2. Measured Depth will be shown in the lower  
left hand corner.  
3. Measured Depth will be accurate only if the  
signal is undistorted and the antenna mast is  
held vertical.  
Depth is varying greatly  
Testing for the consistency of the Measured Depth  
reading can be done by raising the SR-60 a known  
distance (say, 12 inches (33 cm)) and observing  
whether the Measured Depth indicator increases by  
the same amount. Small variation is acceptable, but if  
the Measured Depth does not change, or changes  
drastically, it is an indication of a “distorted” field, or  
very low current on the line.  
Signal Strength is varying  
greatly.  
Push-Button Depth  
Holding the Select Key will display a short count-  
down followed by a calculated depth report. This  
“Pushbutton Depth”, calculated on more signal  
samples, will be more precise than the running Depth  
indication.  
Extreme offset between  
guidance line and tracing  
line (right or left).  
Push-button Depth will generate a brief count-down  
screen followed by a calculation screen, which  
changes to a depth report screen when the  
calculation is complete.  
Clipping (Signal too high).  
Averaged depth will be  
inaccurate.  
Distortion level too high to  
read depth accurately  
Figure 24: Push-Button Depth Report  
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Current and Signal Angle Reading  
Operating Tips for Active Line  
Tracing  
The Current Strength (  
) and Signal Angle  
indicator ( ) in the upper right corner of the screen  
will display the current detected on the traced line, in  
milliamps, when the computed angle to the center of  
the detected field is less than 35° and the SR-60  
crosses the center of the field.  
1. The SR-60 quickly identifies distorted fields. If the  
guidance arrows are centered on the screen, and  
the Trace Line is not centered (or if the Proximity  
Signal number and Signal Strength are not  
maximized), then distortion is creating a complex  
non-circular field. This is also reflected by the  
Tracing line dissolving, or growing unfocused in a  
cloudy pattern proportional to the distortion  
detected.  
When moving across the center of the field the  
current display will retain the displayed current value  
until the guidance arrows reverse again, at which  
point the display will be updated. The update occurs  
whenever the guidance arrows reverse.  
2. To improve the tracing circuit:  
When the angle to the center exceeds 35°, the Signal  
Angle indicator will again replace the Current  
indicator, and the display will show the computed  
angle to the center of the detected field.  
a. Move the ground stake position away  
from the line to be traced.  
b. Use a larger ground contact surface  
(such as a shovel blade).  
Clipping (Tracing Modes)  
c. Make sure that the line is not commonly  
bonded to another utility. (Undo common  
bonds only if safe to do so).  
Occasionally the Signal Strength will be strong  
enough that the receiver will be unable to process the  
whole signal, a condition known as “clipping”. When  
d. Try changing the frequency used.  
e. Move the transmitter to a different point  
on the line, if possible. Try locating from  
the other direction along the line, for  
example.  
this occurs, a warning symbol  
will appear on  
the screen. It means that the signal is particularly  
strong. If clipping persists, remedy it by increasing  
the distance between the antennas and the target  
line OR by reducing the strength of the current from  
the transmitter.  
3. Circling the last location of a clear signal at a  
distance of about 20 feet (6.5 m) can clarify if the  
distortion is coming from a local turn or tee in the  
line, and enable the operator to again pick up the  
line nearby.  
Note: Measured Depth Display is disabled  
under clipping conditions.  
4. If the Tracing Line will not center or if it moves  
across the screen erratically, then the SR-60 may  
not be receiving a clear signal. The Measured  
Depth and the Proximity Signal may also be  
unstable under these circumstances.  
When clipping occurs, the SR-60 will automatically  
attenuate the signal to dampen it. When the signal  
strength received falls below the clipping threshold,  
the attenuation stops automatically. The SR-60  
screen will indicate the starting of attenuation and the  
stopping of attenuation by showing these images:  
a. Check the transmitter to be sure that it is  
operating and well grounded. Good  
connection and good grounding can  
remedy low current problems.  
b. Test the circuit by pointing the lower  
antenna at either transmitter lead. If a  
strong signal is not shown, improve the  
circuit.  
c. Check that the SR-60 and transmitter are  
operating on the same frequency.  
Figure 25: Attenuation On Figure 26: Attenuation Off  
d. Try a higher frequency, until the line can  
be picked up dependably. Using lower  
frequencies can overcome bleed-over  
problems. Higher frequencies can  
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overcome resistance and inject more  
current onto the line.  
7. Higher frequencies bleed over to adjacent utilities  
more readily, but may be needed to overcome  
breaks in tracer wires or go over insulating  
couplers. If the line is ungrounded at the far end,  
higher frequencies may be the only means to  
make the line traceable. (See Informational  
Locating, on page 39).  
e. Re-locate the ground connection for a  
better circuit. Ensure there is enough  
contact (ground stake is sufficiently  
deep) especially in dryer soils.  
8. When using the transmitter inductively, be sure to  
begin the locate about 30 feet (10m) away to  
avoid “direct coupling” (also know as air  
coupling). This occurs when the SR-60 picks up  
the signal from the transmitter directly through  
the air and not from the line to be traced. An  
unrealistic Measured Depth reading when over  
the line can also indicate air coupling is  
occurring.  
f. In extremely dry soil, wetting the area  
around the ground stake will improve the  
circuit. Be aware the moisture will  
dissipate and evaporate, reducing the  
quality of the circuit over time.  
5. Using the numeric Signal Angle Indicator is  
another way to check for distorted signals. Move  
the SR-60 perpendicularly to both sides of the  
traced line until the numeric Signal Angle  
indicator reads 45 degrees. Be sure to keep the  
lower Omnidirectional antenna node at the same  
height, and the locator mast vertical. If there is  
little or no distortion the traced line should be in  
the middle and the distance to each 45 degree  
point should be approximately the same on either  
side. If the signal is undistorted, then the distance  
from the line center to the 45° point is  
approximately equal to the depth.  
9. While tracing, the mapping display operates best  
under the following conditions:  
a. The line is level  
b. The SR-60 Locator is above the target  
utility elevation  
c. The SR-60 antenna mast is held  
approximately vertical  
If these conditions are not met, pay close attention to  
maximizing Signal Strength.  
In general, if the SR-60 is used in a zone over the  
target line within a sweep area of about two “depths”  
of the line, the map will be useful and accurate. Be  
aware of this when using the map if the target or line  
is very shallow. The width of the useful search area  
for the map can be small if the line is extremely  
shallow.  
Note: Another technique is to move the same  
distance to the right and left of the traced line,  
say 24 inches (60 cm) and check that the Signal  
Strength readings are similar.  
6. While tracing, the Proximity Signal and Signal  
Strength should maximize, and the Measured  
Depth minimize, at the same place where the  
guidance arrows center on the display. If this is  
not the case, the utility may be changing direction  
or other coupled signals may be present.  
See the section on Suppression on page 32 for  
information on noise suppression options.  
A
=same distance  
45°  
45  
°
A
A
Ground  
45  
°
45°  
A
Energized Pipe  
Figure 27: Checking for Distortion  
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Figure 28: Screen Display in Different Locations (Line Tracing)  
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The SR-60 has multiple Passive Line Trace  
frequency settings. Power frequencies (identified  
with the power icon ) are used to locate signals  
generated as the result of power transmissions,  
usually 50 or 60 Hz. To reduce the effects of inherent  
noise from line-load or neighboring devices the SR-60  
can be set to locate various multiples (or harmonics)  
of the base 50/60 Hz frequency up to 4,000 Hz.  
(<4kHz setting).  
Passive Line Tracing  
In passive mode, the SR-60 is looking for  
electromagnetic “noise” that has found its way onto a  
buried utility line by any available means.  
Electromagnetic signals can get onto buried utility  
lines in a variety of ways.  
The most common way is by means of direct  
connection to some signal source. All operating  
electronic devices that are connected to AC power will  
radiate a certain amount of electronic “noise” back  
onto the power lines they are connected to. Examples  
of such devices include computers, copy machines,  
refrigerators, anything with an electric motor, TV sets,  
air conditioning units, etc.  
The 50/60 Hz 9x multiple is the setting most  
commonly used to locate 50/60 Hz signal. In well-  
balanced high voltage electric distribution systems,  
the 5x multiple may work better. The 100 Hz (in 50 Hz  
countries) and 120 Hz (in 60 Hz countries) frequency  
settings are particularly useful for pipelines that have  
been equipped with cathodic protection using  
rectifiers.  
Another common way electromagnetic noise can get  
onto the line is by way of induction that can operate  
without any direct physical connection to the buried  
line. In some areas for example, buried utilities act as  
antennas for high powered, low frequency radio  
As in Active Line Tracing, the Tracing Line will reflect  
distortion in the detected field by appearing un-  
focused or cloudy in proportion to the distortion. This  
“distortion response” is useful in recognizing when the  
field being traced is being distorted by other fields of  
metallic objects in the vicinity.  
transmissions  
(submarine  
navigational  
and  
communication signals in the UK for example) and will  
reradiate these signals. These reradiated signals can  
be very useful for locating.  
Similarly, buried lines that run side by side near each  
other, particularly for longer distances will tend to  
bleed signals onto each other. This effect is more  
pronounced for higher frequencies. Due to coupling,  
all metallic lines in an area may be energized.  
Because of this, it is possible to locate lines passively,  
but it is difficult to identify which line the locator is  
tracing.  
Pipes can also have 60 Hz signal randomly induced  
into them by nearby power-line fields, and other  
frequencies can be picked up on phone lines, for  
example, from the energy of radio-broadcast towers in  
the vicinity. In short, frequencies can show up on  
buried conductors in numerous ways, and these can  
be picked up passively, if the fields are strong  
enough.  
Figure 29: 609th Hz Passive Trace Frequency  
There are also two higher radio frequency bands  
to help locate lines passively. They are:  
4 kHz to 15 kHz (LF)  
15 kHz to 35 kHz (HF)  
1. Select  
a
Passive Line Trace Frequency  
(
or icon).  
The Radio Frequency and <4 kHz bands can be  
useful in discriminating when tracing in a noisy  
environment. They are also very helpful in finding  
lines on blind searches. When searching over a wide  
area where the location of targets is unknown, one  
useful approach is to have multiple frequencies  
selected for use and to check the area at a number of  
frequencies in sequence looking for meaningful  
signals. Even more convenient is to use the  
OmniSeek setting described below.  
2. Choose an orderly pattern of search that will  
cover the area you are interested in.  
3. Use the Tracing Line, Depth, and Signal Strength  
to steer you to the lines which have that  
frequency energizing them.  
4. If possible, once you have found a target of  
interest, find an accessible point and do an Active  
Trace on it to confirm your results.  
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In general, directly connected Active Line Tracing is  
more reliable than Passive Line Tracing.  
WARNING  
In Passive Line tracing, or when signals are  
extremely weak, the Measured Depth will  
generally read too deep, and the actual  
buried depth may be much shallower.  
OmniSeek Locating  
Figure 31: OmniSeek with Secondary Tracing Line  
The SR-60 has an advanced capability for passive  
The display will show the main tracing line and identify  
the band in which it is found. In Figure 31, the <4 kHz  
band is being displayed as the closest signal being  
seen by the locator. Notice there is also a dashed  
secondary tracing line being shown. If signals are also  
being detected from other frequency bands, dashed  
lines (called Secondary Trace Lines) will indicate their  
apparent location.  
locating called OmniSeek. The OmniSeek mode  
is  
a
universal passive search mode that can  
simultaneously detect frequencies in three passive  
search bands (<4 kHz, 4-15 kHz, and >15 kHz).  
Whichever signal has the highest Proximity  
will be  
displayed. This enables you to sweep an area without  
having to switch between frequency bands.  
To use OmniSeek, select it from the Main Menu:  
Figure 32:  
OmniSeek 15-35kHz Band  
In Figure 32, the Tracing Line, in the<4 kHz band, is  
showing some distortion. Two other signals are being  
detected in the bands 15-35 kHz and 4-15 kHz. If the  
operator wants to follow these secondary signals up  
more closely, he can switch to the particular bands to  
see which one is being picked up in each band.  
Figure 30: Selecting  
OmniSeek  
The SR-60 will then search all three passive  
frequency bands simultaneously. The trace with the  
closest proximity value will be displayed more  
prominently on the screen, and its corresponding  
frequency will appear on the left of the main screen.  
This enables you to do a Passive Locate more  
effectively if there is, for example, a lot of 60 Hz noise  
in the environment. It is important to keep in mind that  
what you are seeing are traces of signals from the  
various broadband frequencies. The operator has to  
use the data to develop an understanding of what he  
is seeing. If one or two secondary tracing lines are  
showing out of alignment with the main tracing line,  
this can be an indication of another utility, especially if  
it is at a deeper depth. But it can also be due to  
simple signal energy on the same utility in different  
frequency bands. Often greater distortion will be  
present on other frequencies bands and this may  
cause the secondary tracing lines to appear out of  
alignment with the main tracing line.  
The OmniSeek symbol  
on the screen indicates the  
other filters are also running. If a closer proximity is  
detected from another frequency band, the displayed  
frequency value will shift to that band.  
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Operating Tips for Passive Line Tracing  
Sonde Locating  
1. In Passive Locating if you are looking for a  
known line, be sure you are using the best  
frequency for the line in question. This may  
be, for example, 60 Hz (1) for a power line, or  
it may turn out that 60 Hz (9) produces a  
more reliable response on a particular line.  
The SR-60 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. A  
Sonde is often used for locating non-conducting pipe  
and conduit.  
2. If seeking  
a
cathode-protected pipe in  
Passive Mode, use higher-frequency (greater  
than 4 kHz) to pick up harmonics.  
Important!  
3. Remember that pipes can carry currents that  
will show up on a Passive Trace as well as  
cables will; the only guarantee of a locate is  
exposure and visual inspection.  
Signal strength is the key factor in determining  
the Sonde’s location. Take care to maximize  
the Signal Strength prior to marking an area for  
excavation.  
4. In general, Passive Trace locating is less  
reliable than Active Line Tracing because  
Active Line Tracing offers the positive  
identification of the signal from the  
transmitter.  
The following assumes that the Sonde is in a  
horizontal pipe, the ground is approximately  
level and the SR-60 is held with the antenna  
mast vertical.  
5. Especially in Passive Line Tracing, knowing  
that you have found something is not the  
same as knowing what you have found. It is  
essential to use all the indicators available,  
such as Measured Depth, Signal Strength,  
etc., to confirm a locate. If it is possible to  
access part of a passively-located cable, it  
can then be energized using a transmitter and  
positively traced.  
The field of a Sonde is different in form from the  
circular field around a long conductor such as a pipe  
or cable. It is a dipole field like the field around the  
Earth, with a north Pole and a south Pole.  
6. While Passive Line Trace is most often used  
on 50/60Hz power lines, other cables such as  
phone lines, CATV lines, etc., can be  
energized in operation, or by transient radio  
frequencies in the region and may appear on  
Passive Line Trace searches.  
Figure 33: Earth's Dipole Field  
7. Verify a passive locate by finding a known  
termination point and hooking up a transmitter  
to it to do an active locate on the line, if this is  
possible.  
In the Sonde’s field, the SR-60 will detect the points at  
either end where the field lines curve down toward the  
vertical, and it will mark these points on the map  
display with a “Pole” icon ( ). The SR-60 will also  
show a line at 90 degrees to the Sonde, centered  
between the Poles, known as the “Equator”, much like  
the Equator on a map of the Earth if the planet were  
viewed sideways (See Figure 33).  
Note that because of the SR-60’s Omnidirectional  
antennas, the signal stays stable regardless of  
orientation. This means the signal will increase  
smoothly when approaching the Sonde, and decrease  
smoothly moving away.  
Note: A Pole is found where field lines turn vertical.  
The Equator occurs when the field lines are  
horizontal.  
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a constant height above the ground as  
distance affects Signal Strength.  
Note the Signal Strength and move away  
from the high point in all directions. Move the  
SR-60 far enough in all directions to verify  
that the Signal Strength drops significantly on  
all sides. Mark the point of highest Signal  
Strength with a yellow Sonde Marker (clipped  
to antenna mast for convenience). This is the  
suspected Sonde location.  
Figure 34: Dipole Field  
When locating a Sonde, first set up the locate:  
Activate the Sonde before putting it in the  
line. Select the same Sonde frequency on the  
SR-60 and make sure it is receiving the  
signal.  
After the Sonde has been sent into the pipe, 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 (5m) from the access is a good  
starting point).  
Figure 35: Poles and Equator of a Sonde  
If while “getting closer” the Equator appears on the  
screen, follow it in the direction of an increasing  
Signal Strength to localize the Sonde.  
Location Methods  
If a Pole appears before the Equator appears, localize  
the Sonde by centering the Pole in the cross-hairs.  
There are three major parts to locating a Sonde.  
The first step is to localize the sonde. The second  
part is pinpointing. The third is verifying its  
location.  
Step 2: Pinpoint the Sonde  
The Poles  
should appear on either side of the  
maximum signal point, an equal distance on either  
side if the Sonde is level. If they are not visible on the  
screen at the point of maximum Signal Strength,  
move from the maximum point perpendicular to the  
dotted line (Equator) until one appears. Center the  
locator over the Pole.  
Step 1: Localize the sonde  
Hold the SR-60 so the mast is pointing  
outward. Sweep the antenna 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 pointing toward the Sonde.  
Where the Poles occur depends on the Sonde’s  
depth. The deeper the Sonde, the further away from it  
the Poles will be.  
Lower the SR-60 to its normal operating  
position (antenna mast vertical) and walk in  
the direction of the Sonde. Approaching the  
Sonde, the Signal Strength will increase and  
the audio tone will rise in pitch. Use the Signal  
Strength and the sound to maximize the  
signal.  
The dotted line represents the Equator of the  
Sonde. If the Sonde is not tilted, the Equator will  
intersect the Sonde at maximum Signal Strength  
and minimum Measured Depth.  
Note: being on the Equator does not mean that  
the locator is over the Sonde. Always verify the  
locate by maximizing Signal Strength and  
marking both Poles.  
Maximize the Signal Strength. When it  
appears to be at its highest point, place the  
SR-60 close to the ground over the high-  
signal point. Be careful to hold the receiver at  
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Mark the first Pole location found with a red  
triangular Pole marker. After centering on the  
Pole, a double-line indicator will appear. This  
line represents how the Sonde is lying  
underground, and in most cases also  
represents the pipe’s approximate direction.  
Notice that the poles and the point of highest  
Signal Strength lie on a straight line.  
Important!  
Being on the Equator does not mean one is  
over the Sonde. Seeing two Poles aligned on  
the display is not a substitute for centering  
over each Pole separately and marking their  
locations as described above.  
When the locator gets close to a Pole, a zoom  
ring will appear centered on the Pole, allowing  
precision centering.  
The second Pole will be a similar distance  
from the Sonde location in the opposite  
direction. Locate it in the same manner and  
mark it with a red triangular marker.  
For best accuracy, the SR-60 should be held  
with the mast oriented vertically. The antenna  
mast must be vertical when marking the Poles  
and Equator, or their locations will be less  
accurate.  
If the Sonde is level, the three markers should  
be aligned and the red Pole markers should  
be similar distances from the yellow Sonde  
marker. If they are not, a tilted Sonde may be  
indicated. (See “Tilted Sondes”, below.) It is  
generally true that the Sonde will be on the  
line between the two Poles, unless there is  
extreme distortion present.  
It doesn’t matter whether you locate the Poles first, or  
the Equator first, and then the Poles, or one Pole,  
then the Equator, and then the other Pole. You can  
even locate the Sonde using just the Signal Strength,  
and then verify your result with the Poles and Equator.  
What is important is that you verify all the data points,  
and mark the Sonde’s position where the signal is  
highest  
Step 3: Verify the locate  
It is important to verify the Sonde’s location by  
Tilted Sondes  
crosschecking the receiver’s information and  
maximizing Signal Strength. Move the SR-60  
away from the maximum Signal Strength, to  
make sure that the signal drops off on all  
sides. Make sure to move the unit far enough  
to see a significant signal drop in each  
direction.  
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 if the  
Sonde is vertical (as it could be if it fell into a break in  
the line); however, it can still be located.  
If the Sonde is vertical what is seen on the screen is a  
single Pole at the point of maximum Signal Strength.  
(The Ridgid Floating Sonde is designed to have a  
single Pole “visible” and is weighted to maintain the  
Sonde on a vertical axis. See Note below.)  
It is important to realize that a severely tilted Sonde  
can cause the Pole locations and the Equator to  
appear offset because of the angle of the Sonde; but  
maximizing the Signal Strength will still guide to the  
best location for the Sonde.  
Figure 36: Sonde Locate: Equator  
Floating Sondes  
Some Sondes are designed to be flushed or to drift  
down a pipe pushed by water flow. Because these  
Sondes swing much more freely than a torpedo-  
shaped Sonde in a pipe, they can be oriented any  
which way. This means the Equator may be distorted  
by tilting, and the location of the Poles may vary. The  
only guarantee of having located a floating Sonde is  
maximizing the Signal Strength and double-checking  
Double-check the two Pole locations.  
Notice that the Measured Depth reading at  
the maximum Signal Strength location is  
reasonable and consistent. If it seems far too  
deep or too shallow, recheck that there is an  
actual maximum Signal Strength at that  
location.  
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SeekTech SR-60  
that the signal falls away on every side of the  
maximum signal location.  
Some modern pushcable and camera systems are  
equipped to inject the 33 kHz signal onto the  
pushcable automatically. If you are using an earlier  
pushcable and camera system, you can inject the 33  
kHz signal onto the pushcable by using an Inductive  
Clamp with several turns of the pushcable looped  
around the jaws. Plug the Inductive Clamp into a  
transmitter set to 33 kHz and turn it on.  
Note: If following a moving Sonde, it may be  
easiest to “chase” a pole, and then to pinpoint the  
actual position of the Sonde only after the Sonde  
has stopped moving.  
To activate the SimulTrace mode, select it from the  
Main Menu frequency list and toggle it into Active  
Status (it is off by default). Then, select SimulTrace  
from the menu of frequencies.  
Measuring Depth (Sonde Mode)  
The SR-60 calculates Measured Depth by comparing  
the strength of the signal at the lower antenna to the  
upper antenna. Measured Depth is approximate; it will  
usually reflect the physical depth when the mast is  
held vertical and the bottom antenna is touching the  
ground directly above the signal source, assuming no  
distortion is present.  
1. To measure depth, place the locator on the  
ground, directly above the Sonde or the line.  
2. Measured Depth will be shown in the lower  
left hand corner of the SR-60’s display  
screen.  
3. Measured Depth will be accurate only if the  
signal is undistorted. Measured Depth Display  
is disabled under clipping conditions.  
Figure 37: Selecting SimulTrace Mode  
Once you have activated the SimulTrace mode, follow  
the general rules of active line tracing to find and  
follow the pushcable.  
Note: Holding the Select Key will display a short  
count-down followed by a calculated depth report.  
This “Pushbutton Depth”, calculated on more  
signal samples, will be more precise than the  
running Depth indication. (See Depth Warnings  
on page 16).  
When you are within detection distance of the Sonde,  
the screen will automatically shift to Sonde mode and  
will display the equator and the poles as described  
above. When SimulTrace is active, the screen will  
continue to display a faint tracing line representing the  
pushcable on 33 kHz even when it is in Sonde mode.  
This is especially useful if you are following a pipeline  
whose location and bearing is questionable. Note: If  
no signal from either a line at 33 kHz or a 512 Hz  
Sonde can be detected, the magnifying glass will  
appear to indicate the unit is seeking for a signal.  
Clipping (Sonde Mode)  
Occasionally the Signal Strength will be strong  
enough that the receiver will be unable to process the  
entire signal, a condition known as “clipping”. When  
this occurs, a warning symbol  
will appear on the  
screen. It means that the signal is particularly strong.  
SimulTrace  
The SR-60 has a new capability for use in specialized  
locating situations which enables you to trace a  
pushcable and  
a
Sonde simultaneously. This  
capability is called SimulTrace. When it is activated,  
the SR-60 will display a tracing line tuned to 33 kHz at  
the same time as it seeks on the 512 Hz frequency for  
a Sonde. By following the 33 kHz signal, the locator  
can follow the pushcable along a pipe, for example,  
and can simultaneously detect the Sonde emitting a  
512 Hz signal when it is within detection range.  
Figure 38:  
SimulTrace Mode: No-Signal Icon  
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Figure 39: Screen Display in Different Locations (Sonde)  
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Figure 40: Tilted Sonde, Poles, and Equator  
Note the right-hand Pole is closer to the Equator, due to tilt.  
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transmitters. Pressing Select  
the user-defined frequency values with the highlighted  
number.  
will automatically fill in  
Custom User Frequencies  
SR-60 users can set and use custom frequencies. By  
setting the SR-60 to a user-defined frequency, you  
can use it with transmitters from any manufacturer,  
even if the transmitter has unusual frequencies or  
has drifted from its nominal frequencies.  
A list of frequencies used by various manufacturers’  
transmitters and locators is included in the User Manual.  
Up to 30 user-defined frequencies can be created,  
changed, stored, and deleted as needed.  
To create a new frequency, scroll down the Main  
Menu to Frequency Selection Control  
.
Then select the Sonde, Line Trace, or Power  
category for your user-defined frequency. The first  
option on the category list will be User-Defined  
Frequency option. To manage User-Defined  
Frequencies, highlight it and press Select.  
Figure 43: Choosing a Frequency Value  
Alternatively, you can define a user-defined frequency by  
setting each digit in turn from right to left with the arrow  
keys.  
Press the Select Key  
to save the user-defined  
frequency you have set. Custom frequencies can be  
easily identified by a “+” in their menu list name.  
Figure 41: User-Defined Frequency (Line Trace Mode)  
A screen with spaces for a six-digit frequency will  
appear. It can accept frequencies from 00000 to  
490,000 Hz. For each digit, the Up Arrow  
increases the number and the Down Arrow  
decreases it. The Left  
and Right  
Arrow Keys  
move you from column to column.  
Figure 44: User-Defined Frequency in Main Menu  
Changing a User-Defined Frequency  
To edit a user-defined frequency:  
1. Press the Menu Key  
to show the list of available  
frequencies. Scroll down to the user-defined  
frequency you wish to edit.  
2. Press the Frequency Key  
. The user-defined  
frequency window with the frequency you selected  
will appear.  
Figure 42: Custom Frequency Setting  
By moving all the way to the left, using the Left Arrow  
Key , you can highlight the icon of the magnifying  
glass. This will reveal a drop-down list of frequencies  
(Figure 43) which are used by manufacturers of other  
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Menus and Settings  
Pressing the Menu Key brings up a series of choices  
which let the operator configure the SR-60 as preferred  
(see Figure 47).The menu is a context-sensitive list of  
options. The entry point into the menu list is set to the  
currently active frequency.  
Auto Menu Exit Count-down Timer  
While traversing the menu tree, a counter appears at the  
bottom of the screen counting down. When it reaches  
zero, it will automatically move back up one level of the  
menu tree until it reaches the operating screen again. It  
resets to nine with each key press, or each time it goes  
up one menu level, until it reaches the operating screen.  
Figure 45: Editing a User-Defined Frequency  
(Note: Trash Icon for deleting Frequency appears when  
Frequency is set to 0).  
3. Use the arrow keys to move through the digits  
and increase or decrease them.  
4. When the frequency is correct, press the Select  
Key  
to save the new value.  
To delete a user-defined frequency:  
1. Press the Menu Key  
to show the list of active  
frequencies. Scroll down to the user-defined  
frequency you wish to edit.  
2. Press the Frequency Key . The user-defined  
frequency window with the frequency you  
selected will appear.  
3. For each digit that is not set to zero, select the  
digit and use the Down arrow key to reduce it to  
zero.  
Figure 47: Main Menu  
In sequence from the top of the menu down, the Main  
Menu presents the following items:  
4. When all digits in the frequency are set to zero,  
the “trash can” icon will appear. Press the Select  
1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
SimulTrace (512 Hz + 33 kHz) (If  
activated).  
Key  
. The user-defined frequency will be  
deleted.  
Currently Available Sonde frequencies  
(Checked-Active or not).  
Currently Available Active Line Trace  
frequencies (Checked-Active or not).  
Currently Available Power (Passive Line  
Trace) frequencies (Checked-Active or not).  
5.  
Currently Available Radio Frequencies  
(Low and High) (Checked-Active or not).  
6.  
7.  
8.  
OmniSeek Mode  
Depth Measurement Units Setting  
Backlight Control.  
Figure 46: User-Defined Frequency Screen  
9. Auto-Shutdown Control  
10.  
LCD Contrast Control  
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11.  
12.  
Display Elements Control (Sub-  
menus will display when selected for Sonde  
or line tracing modes.)  
Currently Available Radio Frequencies  
As with other frequency categories, these items will  
appear in the “Checked-Active” set when checked.  
Frequency Selection Control  
(Sub-menus will display for categories of  
frequencies that can be selected.)  
See the Frequency List on page 9.  
OmniSeek Mode  
13.  
Information Menu including software  
version and unit serial number (sub-menu for  
restoring factory defaults will display on  
Information screen).  
The OmniSeek mode allows simultaneous tracing in  
multiple high-frequency bands: <4 kHz, 4-15 kHz, and  
15-35 kHz.  
Change of Depth Units  
See the Menu Tree on page 35 for a complete list.  
The SR-60 can display Measured Depth in either Feet or  
Meters (Figure 48). Feet are shown in feet-and-inches  
format; meters are in decimal format. To change these  
settings, highlight the Depth Units selection in the menu  
and press the Select Key to toggle between feet or  
meters. Use the Menu Key to save the section and exit.  
SimulTrace Mode  
The SimulTrace mode is off by default and can be  
activated by selecting it in the Frequency Selection  
Control sub-menu. It provides simultaneous tracing of  
a 512 Hz Sonde and a 33 kHz line for easier tracking  
of underground pipes using a Sonde.  
Currently Available Sonde Frequencies  
Frequencies that have been set to “Checked-Active”  
status appear with a check box next to them. If the  
checkbox is checked, the frequency can be accessed  
using the Frequency Key  
. Frequencies are  
checked or unchecked by highlighting them and  
pressing the Select Key. To return to the operating  
screen, press the Menu Key.  
See the Frequency List on page 9.  
Figure 48: Selecting Units (Feet/Meters)  
Currently Available Active Line Trace  
Frequencies  
Back Light Control  
Frequencies that have been set to “Checked-Active”  
status appear with a check box next to them. If the  
checkbox is checked, the frequency will be activated  
and can then be accessed using the Frequency Key  
. Frequencies are checked or unchecked by  
highlighting them and pressing the Select Key. To  
return to the operating screen, press the Menu Key.  
A light detector built into the upper left corner of the  
keypad senses low light levels. The backlight can be  
forced on by blocking the light to this sensor.  
The automatic LCD backlight is factory set to only switch  
on under fairly dark conditions. This is to conserve  
battery power. As the batteries near depletion, the  
backlight will appear dim.  
See the Frequency List on page 9.  
To set the backlight to be always off, highlight the light  
bulb icon in the tools section of the menu. Press the  
Select Key to toggle it between Auto, always ON and  
always OFF.  
Currently Available Passive Line Trace  
Frequencies  
As with other frequency categories, these items will  
appear in the “Checked-Active” set when checked.  
See the Frequency List on page 9.  
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Display Elements Menu  
Advanced features of the SR-60 can be enabled by  
using the Menu Key to show the menu tree. Select the  
Display Elements selection menu. Then select the mode  
(Line Trace or Sonde) you want to change.  
Selecting the icon representing two small display  
screens will bring up the Display Elements Menu for  
either Trace  
or Sonde  
mode. The SR-60 is  
shipped with some of the elements switched off for  
simplicity. To toggle an element on or off, press the Up  
or Down Key to highlight the screen element icon for that  
feature. Then use the Select Key to check or uncheck  
the box. Checked display elements are selected to be on  
for that mode. Personal preferences and the type of  
locating being done will dictate which optional elements  
the operator wants displayed.  
Figure 49: Setting Backlight Mode (On/Off/Auto)  
LCD Contrast  
When this is selected by pressing the Select Key, the  
contrast can be adjusted (Figure 50). Use the Up and  
Down Keys to make the screen lighter or darker  
(Figure 51). Extreme temperature changes may  
make the LCD appear dark (hot) or light (cold).  
Setting the contrast to extreme dark or light may  
make the LCD difficult to read.  
Figure 52: Display Elements (Line Trace Modes)  
Figure 50: Contrast Setting Option  
Figure 53: Display Elements (Sonde Mode)  
Optional Features  
Optional Features in the Display Elements Menu  
include:  
Figure 51: Increasing/Decreasing Contrast  
Race Track and Watermark  
Use the Menu Key to save the setting and exit. In this  
menu, one can also exit by pressing the Select Key  
to save the setting and exit.  
The “Race Track” is a circular track around the center of  
the Active View Area on the screen. The Watermark is a  
marker which appears in the outer ring of the display,  
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traveling along the Race Track (Figure 54). The  
Watermark is a graphic representation of the highest  
Signal Strength reached (in Sonde mode) or the  
highest Proximity Signal level reached (in Line  
Tracing modes). It is “chased” by a solid Level  
Pointer  
which shows the current Signal Strength.  
If the Signal Strength Level Pointer goes higher than  
the Watermark, the Watermark moves up accordingly  
to show the new highest level graphically. The  
Watermark, like the high-water ring in a bathtub,  
shows the highest level reached.  
This provides an additional, visual way to track the  
maximum signal. If you are trying to trace a line by  
noticing its highest Signal Strength level, Watermark  
serves as a visual aid.  
Figure 55: No-Signal Icon  
Center Signal Strength Option  
The Watermark and Race Track are a single option  
that is off by default but can be set on in the Display  
Elements selection menu.  
Selecting this option in the Menu Selection screen will  
force the number representing Signal Strength to be  
displayed in the center of the display area anytime when  
a Proximity Signal is not available (Figure 56). This may  
occur when signal is weak. When a Proximity Signal  
again becomes available, the Signal Strength number  
returns to the lower right corner of the screen as usual.  
(Line Trace Mode only).  
Figure 54: "Race-track" with Watermark and Level  
Pointer  
No-Signal Icon (Suppression)  
IF this feature is selected “on”, when the SR-60 is not  
receiving any meaningful signal on the selected  
frequency, it will display a moving magnifying glass  
icon, indicating no signal is being detected (Figure  
55). The sound will also mute when no signal is  
found. This reduces the confusion of trying to  
interpret the random noise that some locators display  
in the absence of a signal.  
Figure 56: Display of Signal Strength at Screen Center  
Signal Focus Control  
The Signal Focus Control feature essentially acts  
something like a magnifying glass on the signal. It  
reduces the sample bandwidth of the signal that the  
receiver examines, and gives a display based on a more  
sensitive read of the incoming signals. The tradeoff in  
using the Signal Focus Control setting is that the display,  
while more precise, will update more slowly. The Signal  
Focus Control can be set at 4Hz (wide), 2Hz, 1Hz, .5 Hz,  
and .25 Hz (narrow). The narrower the selected  
bandwidth used, the greater detection distance and  
precision the receiver will show, but with a lower update  
rate of data on the display.  
Depth suppression – If the Measured Depth  
is greater than the threshold depth (by  
default, 99’/30m in Sonde mode and 30’/10m  
in Line Trace mode), the map is suppressed,  
and the magnifying glass appears.  
Noise suppression – If the signal is seen to  
be too noisy, the map may also be  
suppressed.  
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Available” – that is, selected to appear in the Main Menu.  
From there, they can be set to “Checked-Active” status  
to make them available by use of the Frequency Key  
.
Checking a frequency to add it to the Main Menu will set  
the unit to operating in that frequency and place it in  
Checked-Active status.  
To select additional frequencies, highlight and select the  
Frequency Selection Control  
the category of the desired frequency (Figure 58). Press  
the Select Key  
sub-menu. Highlight  
.
Figure 57: Signal Focus Control  
Note this means that when using a more narrow  
Signal Focus Control setting, it is necessary to move  
the receiver along the line more slowly. This is a  
trade-off for the improved focus, and will avoid  
missing data updates at the slower rate.  
When it is selected on, the Signal Focus Control is  
changed to narrower or wider settings using the Up  
(narrower) and Down (wider) Keys.  
Signal Focus Control is useful when you need to  
focus in on a particular signal with detail.  
Figure 58: Selecting a Frequency Category  
Then use the Up and Down Keys to scroll through the  
available frequencies. Highlight the desired frequency to  
add it to the currently available list (Figure 59).  
Sound Muting Î99’  
This option automatically mutes sound when  
Measured Depth is greater than 99 feet (30m). If it is  
unchecked, the sound will not mute automatically.  
Tracing Line Response  
The Tracing Line distortion response checkbox sets  
the sensitivity of the Target Line’s distortion display to  
low, medium, or high -- or disables it altogether. The  
higher the setting, the more sensitive the “distortion  
cloud” around the Tracing Line becomes.  
If the distortion response is disabled, the Tracing Line  
will become a single solid line, and the screen will  
show a second, dashed, line called the Distortion  
Line. (See page 35 for a description of using this  
alternative display.)  
Figure 59: Highlighting a Frequency to Activate  
Checking a frequency (using the Select Key) will enable  
it to be included in the “Currently Available” list of  
frequencies on the Main Menu (Figure 60). Once on the  
Main Menu, it can be set to “Checked-Active” status, and  
then be put into use using the Frequency Key .  
Frequency Selection Control  
Additional available frequencies on the Master  
Frequency Menu can be added to the Main Menu list  
of available frequencies by going to the Frequency  
Selection Control sub-menu  
and  
selecting the desired mode. All frequencies available  
in the SR-60 for that mode will be displayed.  
Checked frequencies are already “Currently  
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SeekTech SR-60  
version, serial number of the receiver, and its calibration  
Figure 60: Setting a Frequency to “Currently  
Available” Status  
To switch to a “Currently Available” frequency that is  
Figure 61: Information Screen  
not yet “Checked-Active”, press the Menu Key  
and scroll down to the desired frequency; if it is not  
checked, press the Select Key to toggle the checkbox  
to “checked”. This sets the status of that frequency to  
“Checked-Active”. Press the Menu Key to return to  
the operating display, which will now be set to the  
frequency just activated. The SR-60 will show the  
chosen frequency and its icon on the left of the  
screen.  
Restore Factory Defaults  
Pressing Select a second time will display the Restore  
Factory Defaults option. (See Figure 62.)  
Selected frequencies in the Checked-Active set can  
be switched while the SR-60 is in use, by pressing  
the Frequency Key. The SR-60 will cycle down the  
list through the set of active frequencies from low to  
high, group by group, and repeat. Unchecking a  
frequency in the Main Menu will deactivate it, and it  
will then not appear when pressing the Frequency  
Key.  
Figure 62: Restore Defaults Option  
Use the Up and Down Keys to highlight either the  
“check” symbol to restore factory defaults, or the “X”  
symbol to NOT restore them.  
Note: If a frequency appears missing, look to  
make sure it is currently available in the Main  
Menu frequencies list. If it is, select it using the  
Select Key. If not, go to the Frequency  
Selection menu and the appropriate sub-  
category and select it there, checking the box  
to make it “Currently Available” and bring it  
into the Main Menu list. Make sure it is  
“checked” at both menu levels for it to appear  
in the current working set of frequencies.  
Information Screen and Restoring Defaults  
Information Screen  
Figure 63: Defaults Restored (Line Trace Mode)  
The information screen appears at the bottom of the  
menus choices list. Pressing the Select Key displays  
information about your locator, including software  
Pressing the Menu Key without changing either  
checkbox will exit the option and leave things as they  
were.  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Menu Tree  
Operating With the Distortion Line  
If the Tracing Line’s distortion response (blurring) is  
disabled, the detected field will be shown with two lines,  
The following figure shows options and controls built  
into the SR-60 menus.  
Activated Frequencies  
one solid (the Tracing Line  
Distortion Line ). (The dashed Distortion Line can  
be separately selected to be on or off in the Display  
Elements menu). The dashed Distortion Line is the  
signal as seen by the upper antenna node and the solid  
Tracing Line is the signal as seen by the lower node.  
) and one dashed (the  
512  
Sonde  
126 Hz, 1 kHz, 8 kHz, 33 kHz, 93  
kHz, 262 kHz  
Line Trace  
60^9 (450 Hz), <4 kHz  
Power  
L( 4-15 kHz), H (15-35 kHz)  
Radio  
<4 kHz + 4-15 kHz + 15-35 kHz  
Feet, Meters  
OmniSeek  
Depth Units  
On/Off/Auto  
Backlight  
1 HR, Off  
Auto Shutdown  
LCD Contrast  
Increase/Decrease  
Sonde Mode  
Trace Mode  
Display  
Elements  
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
Watermark  
Signal Focus Setting  
No-Signal Indicator  
Sound Signals  
Center Signal Strength*  
Signal Strength  
Signal Angle Indicator  
Distortion Line Response*  
(Hi, Med, Low)  
Figure 65: Screen Display with Distortion Line  
(Line Trace Mode)  
*=Line Trace  
Display Only  
The Tracing Line without the dynamic distortion  
response (blurring) still represents the location, and the  
direction, of the signal being traced. It still reflects  
changes in direction of the target utility. And it helps  
recognize signal distortion, when compared to the  
dashed Distortion Line — if something is interfering with  
the signal and distorting its shape, the Distortion Line  
could be significantly offset or skewed.  
¾
¾
¾
Tracing Line Distortion *  
Sound Mute > 99’  
Guidance Arrows*  
¾
SimulTrace™: 512 Hz  
+ 33 kHz  
Frequency  
Selection  
¾ Sonde: Custom Frequencies,  
The Tracing Line represents the signal received by the  
lower antenna node. The Distortion Line represents the  
signal received by the upper antenna node. If these two  
do not align, or they do not reflect the same information  
as the Guidance Arrows about where the center of the  
field is, then the operator knows he is looking at some  
kind of distortion.  
16, 512, 640, 850, 8k, 16k, 33k  
¾ Line Trace: Custom  
Frequencies, 128 Hz, 1 kHz, 8  
kHz, 33 kHz, 51 kHz, 93 kHz,  
93 kHz-B, 200 kHz, 262 kHz  
¾ Power: Custom Frequencies,  
50 Hz, 60 Hz, 100 Hz,  
The two lines may also move randomly if a weak signal  
is being received, indicating that the locator circuit needs  
to be improved.  
120 Hz, 50^5 (250 Hz), 60^5  
(300 Hz), 50^9(450 Hz), 60^9  
(540 Hz), <4kHz  
¾
¾
RF: L (4-15 kHz), H (15-35  
kHz)  
The balance of the Tracing Line and the Distortion line  
combine to give the operator much the same information  
as the Tracing Line with its distortion response enabled,  
but in a different graphical form. Advanced operators  
may find this more useful in discriminating the primary  
signal from the impact of distortion.  
OmniSeek: <4kHz + 4-15  
kHz + 15-35 kHz  
Restore Defaults, Clear Custom  
Frequencies, Cancel  
Information  
Menu  
Figure 64: SR-60 Menu Tree  
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SeekTech SR-60  
particular line or pipe is visual inspection, such as by  
potholing.  
Informational Locating  
The normal shape of a field around a long conductor  
such as a pipe or cable is circular (cylindrical in three  
dimensions). When over the center of a circular field,  
the operator can observe the following indicators:  
Compound or complex fields will produce different  
indications on the SR-60 that will show what is  
happening. Some examples might be:  
Disagreement between guidance arrows,  
Tracing Line and Distortion Indicator  
Maximum Signal Strength  
Maximum Proximity Signal (Line Trace  
Mode)  
Inconsistent or unrealistic Measured Depth  
signal  
Centered Tracing line with minimized  
distortion  
Fluctuating random indications (also caused by  
very weak signal)  
Guidance arrows centered, agreeing with  
Tracing line  
Inconsistent Proximity Signal compared to  
guidance arrows (Active or Passive Line Trace  
modes)  
Minimum Measured Depth  
Sound pitch and volume will increase until  
they maximize over the target utility.  
Signal strength maximizing off to one side of the  
conductor.  
Figure 66: Over a Circular Field  
Figure 67: Over a Distorted Field  
The experienced operator learns to “see” the ground  
situation by knowing how the different pieces of  
information provided by the SR-60 relate to each  
other. While a simple straightforward locate of a  
circular field is fast and easy, tracing a line which is  
near other large conductors such as power lines,  
phone lines, gas mains, rebar, or even buried scrap  
metal can lead to questions which can only be  
correctly answered by taking all the available  
information into account.  
Generally, distortion is likely to be worse at higher  
frequencies, compared to lower frequencies. This is due  
to the tendency of higher frequency signals to “jump” to  
adjacent conductors. Large iron and steel objects such  
as vault and manhole covers, trench plates, structural  
supports, rebar and vehicles can significantly distort  
even the lowest frequencies. In general, passive locating  
is more subject to distortion than active locating,  
especially in regards to depth measurements. Power  
transformers, buried and overhead power lines are a  
common source of strong distortion. It may be impossible  
to get an accurate locate close to a large power  
transformer.  
By comparing the Guidance Arrows, the Tracing Line,  
Signal Strength, Signal Angle, Measured Depth, and  
Proximity Signal, an operator can see which way the  
field is being distorted. Comparing the field  
information with an educated view of the ground,  
noticing where transformers, meters, junction boxes,  
manholes, and other indicators are located can help  
in understanding what is causing field distortion. It is  
important to remember, especially in complex  
situations, that the only guarantee of the location of a  
Notes on Accuracy  
Measured Depth, Proximity, and Signal Strength  
measurements rely on a strong signal being received by  
the SR-60. Remember that the SR-60 is used above  
ground to sense electromagnetic fields emitted from  
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SeekTech SR-60  
underground lines (electrical conductors like metal  
cables and pipes) or Sondes (actively transmitting  
beacons). When the fields are simple and  
undistorted, then the information from sensed fields is  
representative of the buried object.  
“split opportunities” or sudden changes of  
direction in the utility being traced. Turns or tees  
can cause a sudden increase in the Distortion  
Indicator response.  
3. When Signal Strength is low. A strong signal is  
necessary for accurate locating. A weak signal  
can be improved by changing the grounding of  
the circuit, frequency, or transmitter connection.  
Worn or damaged insulation, bare-concentric  
cables, and iron pipes exposed to ground will  
compromise Signal Strength through leakage to  
ground.  
4. Far-end grounding will change Signal Strength  
significantly. Where far-end grounding cannot be  
established a higher frequency will provide a  
stronger signal. Improving ground conditions for  
the locating circuit is a primary remedy to a poor  
signal.  
5. When soil conditions vary. Extremes in  
moisture, either very dry or water-saturated, may  
affect measurements. For example, ground that  
is saturated with salty water will shield the signal  
severely and be very difficult to locate in,  
especially at high frequencies. In contrast,  
adding water to very dry soil around a ground  
stake can make a major improvement in signal.  
6. In the presence of large metal objects. Simply  
walking past a parked car during a trace, for  
example, can cause an unexpected increase or  
decrease in Signal Strength, which will revert to  
normal when past the distorting object. This  
effect is stronger at high frequencies, which  
“couple” more readily onto other objects.  
If those fields are distorted and there are multiple  
interacting fields, it will cause the SR-60 to locate  
inaccurately. Locating is not an exact science. It does  
require the operator to use judgment and look for all  
the information available beyond what the instrument  
readings may be. The SR-60 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. A wise  
operator treats the information gained as a partial  
solution to the problem of locating and combines it  
with knowledge of the environment, utilities practices,  
visual observation, and familiarity with the instrument  
to arrive at an informed conclusion.  
Locating accuracy should not be assumed under the  
following conditions:  
1. When other cables or utilities are present.  
“Bleed over” may produce distorted fields  
and illuminate cables or pipes unintentionally.  
Use lower frequencies when possible and if  
possible eliminate connections between the  
two cables (such as common bonding to  
ground).  
The SR-60 cannot change the underlying conditions of a  
difficult locate, but changing frequency, grounding  
conditions, transmitter location, or isolating the target line  
from a common ground can change the results, by  
making a better ground connection, avoiding signal  
splits, or reducing distortion. Other locating receivers will  
give an indication that they may be over the line but they  
have less ability to determine the quality of the locate.  
The SR-60 provides more information. If all of the  
indicators are aligned and in agreement, mark-outs can  
be made with more confidence. If the field is distorted it  
shows immediately. This allows the operator to do  
something to isolate the target line, change the  
grounding, connection point, move the transmitter, or  
change the frequency to get better reception with less  
distortion. For extra certainty, take steps to inspect the  
situation, such as by requesting potholing.  
Figure 68: Bleed-over  
2. When tees, turns, or splits are present in  
the line. When following a clear signal that  
suddenly becomes ambiguous, try seeking in  
a circle of about 20’ around the last known  
point to see whether the signal picks up  
again. This may reveal a branch, joint, or  
some other change in the line. Be alert to  
In the final analysis, there is one “most important”  
component in the locating task – the operator. The SR-  
60 provides an unprecedented amount of information to  
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SeekTech SR-60  
be able to make the correct decision rapidly and  
accurately.  
Advantages of the Omnidirectional  
Antenna  
Unlike the coils used in many simple locator devices, the  
Omnidirectional antenna detects fields on three separate  
axes, and can combine these signals into a “picture” of  
the apparent strength, orientation, and direction of the  
complete field. Omnidirectional antennas offer definite  
advantages:  
A Better Way of Locating  
The SR-60 gives the operator a picture of the  
situation as the receiver moves along the target area  
and makes it easier to understand where a target  
line’s electromagnetic field is. With more complete  
information, an operator can understand how things  
stand underground and resolve complex situations,  
avoid inaccurate mark-ups, and find the right line or  
cable more rapidly.  
The Mapping Display  
The mapping display enabled by the Omnidirectional  
antennas provides a graphic view of  
a
signal’s  
What the SR-60 Does  
characteristics and a bird’s eye view of the signal from  
underground. It is used as a guide for tracing  
underground cables and pipes, and can be used to  
better pinpoint Sondes. It can also be used to provide  
more information for complex locates.  
The SR-60 is used above ground to sense and trace  
electromagnetic fields emitted from underground or  
hidden lines (electrical conductors like metal cables  
and pipes) or Sondes (actively transmitting beacons).  
When the fields are undistorted, the information from  
the sensed fields gives an accurate picture of the  
buried object. When the situation is made complex by  
interference from more than one line, or other factors,  
the SR-60 provides a display of information that  
shows multiple measurements of the detected field.  
This data can make it easier to understand where the  
problem is, by providing clues as to whether a locate  
is good or bad, questionable or reliable. Instead of  
just laying paint in the wrong place, the operator can  
see clearly when a difficult locate needs re-  
evaluation.  
The SR-60 provides more of the critical information  
the operator needs to understand the situation  
underground.  
Figure 69: Mapping Display  
What It Does Not Do  
The use of lines (representing the signals sensed by  
upper and lower antennas) and guidance arrows  
(pointing toward the center of the detected field) combine  
to give the locator a graphic picture of the receiver’s  
location, and where the target utility or Sonde is. At the  
same time the operating screen provides all the  
information needed to understand what is happening  
with the field being located – its Signal Strength,  
continuous distance, Signal Angle, and proximity to the  
target. The information available at one moment on the  
SR-60 would take multiple sample readings with some  
conventional locators. A distorted or compound field will  
be easier to interpret when all the information is in a  
single display as it is with the SR-60.  
The SR-60 locates by sensing electromagnetic fields  
surrounding conductive objects; it does not sense the  
underground objects directly. It provides more  
information about the shape, orientation, and  
direction of fields than other locators but it does not  
magically interpret that information or provide an x-  
ray image of underground objects.  
A distorted, complex field in a noisy environment  
requires intelligent human thought to analyze  
correctly. The SR-60 cannot change the results of a  
difficult locate, even though it shows all the  
information about those results. Using what the SR-  
60 shows, a good operator can improve locating  
results by “making the circuit better”, changing  
frequency, grounding or the transmitter’s location on  
the target line.  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Orientation to the Signal  
More on Informational Locating  
Because of the SR-60’s advanced processing and  
display, the information provided by the SR-60 makes it  
clear when a locate is reliable, and when one is suspect.  
A good locator can understand the underground picture  
with much less effort by using the combined information  
provided by:  
Because of the multiple signals being processed by  
each Omnidirectional antenna, the target’s signal  
always gets stronger as the receiver gets closer to  
the target. How the unit is held does not affect Signal  
Strength. The user can approach from any direction  
and does not need to know the orientation or  
direction of the pipe or wire.  
Proximity Signal/Signal Strength  
Tracing Line  
Locating Sondes  
Distortion Indicator  
Guidance Arrows and Directional Sound  
Continuous Measured Depth indications  
Used with a Sonde, the SR-60 eliminates Nulls and  
"Ghost Peaks”. A conventional locator signal often  
sees a signal increase followed by a null (better  
described as no signal registering on the antenna)  
and then a peak. This can confuse the operator who  
may interpret a smaller peak as the target.  
These indicators show what the antennas are “sensing”  
as they move through the field. They signal when a field  
is being distorted out of shape by interference from  
other cables, pipes, or conductive objects nearby. When  
significant distortion is present, the indicators will not  
agree. Knowing distortion is present allows the operator  
the option of taking action to reduce it or at least  
account for it. (For example, both location and  
Measured Depth reading become suspect in distorted  
fields).  
The other side of having more information is verification  
that a locate is reliable. If all of the indicators are in  
agreement and reasonable then the degree of  
confidence in a locate can be much higher.  
SR-60 Maintenance  
Figure 70: The signal from a Sonde as “seen” by a  
conventional locator  
Transportation and Storage  
Before transporting, make sure that the unit is off to  
preserve battery power.  
The main peak is in the center, and two false  
peaks are outside the two nulls.  
When transporting, make sure that the unit is secure and  
does not bounce around or get bumped by loose  
equipment. The SR-60 should be stored in a cool dry  
place.  
The SR-60 uses measurements of the complete field  
to direct the user to the target. Finding a Sonde using  
Signal Strength is a very direct process.  
Note: If storing the SR-60 for an extended  
period, remove the batteries completely.  
If shipping the SR-60, remove the batteries  
entirely from the unit.  
Installing/Using Accessories  
The SR-60 also comes with Sonde and Pole Markers  
that can be used to mark Pole or Sonde locations above  
ground. There are two (2) red markers to mark the Poles  
and one (1) yellow marker to mark the Sonde. The  
markers can also be used to temporarily mark points to  
come back to while scouting a target area or tracing a  
Figure 71: Sonde signal as “seen” by the SR-60  
The only way to go is “up” toward the maximum  
signal.  
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SeekTech SR-60  
line. If further assistance is needed, please call  
RIDGE Tool Technical Service at 800-519-3456. If  
appropriate: replacements can be ordered from your  
Ridgid dealer.  
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:  
Maintenance and Cleaning  
Ridge Tool Company  
Technical Service Department  
400 Clark Street  
Elyria, Ohio 44035-6001  
Tel: (800) 519-3456  
1. Keep the SR-60 clean with a damp cloth and  
some mild detergent. Do not immerse in water.  
2. 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. Harsh chemicals can  
cause cracking of the Case.  
For the name and address of your nearest Independent  
Authorized Service Center, contact the Ridge Tool  
Company at (800) 519-3456 or www.ridgid.com.  
Locating Faulty Components  
For troubleshooting suggestions, please refer to the  
trouble-shooting guide on page 42. If necessary,  
contact RIDGE Tool Technical Service at 800-519-  
3456. We will establish a plan of action to get your  
SR-60 working for you.  
CAUTION  
Remove batteries entirely before  
shipping.  
Service and Repair  
Important  
Instrument should be taken to a RIDGID  
Independent Authorized Service Center or  
returned to the factory. Remove batteries before  
shipping.  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Icons and Symbols  
Figure 72: Icons and Symbols  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Glossary -- Definitions  
A mode of locating using a Line Transmitter to inject a chosen frequency onto a hidden  
conductor; the frequency is then detected by the SR-60 to trace the conductor  
Active Line Tracing  
Active View Area  
The area within the circle in the center of the operating screen, where the Tracing Line  
or Sonde Pole and Equator symbols appear.  
Coupling of the signal from the target line onto adjacent conductors by any means  
(resistive, capacitive, or inductive). Bleed-over makes the signal appear to be coming  
from a different conductor than the one being traced by setting up a field of the same  
frequency in a nearby conductor.  
Bleed over  
A frequency is said to be “Checked-Active” when it has been checked on the main  
menu; this enables it to be accessed by the use of the Frequency Key during operation  
of the SR-60. The “In Use” frequency is always one of the Checked-Active set.  
Checked-Active  
Frequencies  
A clear signal is a field caused by current through a conductor which is strong enough to  
be detected unambiguously by a receiver such as the SR-60. Clear signals depend on  
good conductivity, good grounding, and adequate current through the target conductor.  
Clear Signal  
The condition of receiving a signal too strong to be processed all at once by the signal  
processor; in the SR-60 this condition will cause a warning signal to flash. The signal  
peaks are too high and are “clipped” off.  
Clipping  
The use of a connector to ground more than one line through the same ground  
connection. Phone lines, for example, are often bonded to ground via the electrical  
service ground line. Common bonding can be a cause of ambiguous signals in locating.  
Common Bonding  
Compound Field  
An electromagnetic field caused by the combination or two or more fields in proximity to  
each other. A compound field has multiple lobes and a complex energy pattern which  
can require analysis to interpret correctly when locating.  
The transfer of energy (without direct electrical contact) between two or more cables or  
components of a circuit. This can occur through induction, through common bonding, or  
other means.  
Coupling  
A symbol in the center of the Active View Area representing the location of the SR-60,  
relative to the detected field.  
Crosshairs  
The calculated level of current based on field strength detected by the Omnidirectional  
antennas of the SR-60; expressed approximately in milliamps (mA). An accurate depth  
measure is required for accuracy.  
Current Strength  
Frequencies which have been checked in the Master Frequency Menu are said to be  
“Currently Available”; they appear on the Main Menu when the Menu Key is pressed,  
and can be set to “Checked-Active” status.  
Currently Available  
Frequencies  
Default values are those settings which the SR-60 uses if the operator does not choose  
alternative settings; they can be restored from the Information Menu.  
Default  
Depth  
See “Measured Depth”  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Glossary -- Definitions  
The impact of near-by fields, other conductors, magnetic flux, or other interference on a  
circular electro-magnetic field. Distortion is detected by comparing the information from  
the SR-60’s Tracing Line, Proximity Signal, Signal Strength, Measured Depth Display,  
and Signal Angle readings. The Tracing Line will grow less focused in response to more  
distortion in the detected field.  
Distortion  
A dashed line which is displayed when the Tracing Line’s distortion response property is  
disabled. It can be used to analyze distortion in the detected field.  
Distortion Line  
A property of the Tracing Line which shows the degree of distortion detected by  
displaying a varying cloud of particles around the Tracing Line; the blurriness of the line  
is proportional to the detected distortion. This property is enabled by default and can be  
disabled in the display.  
Distortion  
Response  
The number of times per second that an electro-magnetic field forms and collapses (or  
shifts from positive to negative in the case of alternating current). Expressed in hertz  
(Hz) (cycles per second), or in kilohertz (kHz) (thousands of cycles per second).  
Frequency  
The two arrowheads which represent detection from the gradient-coil antennas in the  
“side-wheels” of the SR-60 antenna system. The Guidance Arrows provide an indication  
of where the center of the field currently being traced lies.  
Guidance Arrows  
‘In Use’ Frequency  
The frequency the SR-60 is currently set to detect. The default ‘in use’ frequency is 33  
kHz. The “in use’ frequency is selected using the Frequency Key from the set of  
frequencies that are “Checked-Active”.  
An advance in the science and art of locating underground utilities and Sondes through  
the combination of multiple pieces of information in an integrated display. Depends on  
Omnidirectional antenna arrays for real-time information.  
Informational  
Locating  
On the SR-60, a solid pointer which moves around a circular track indicating the current  
Signal Strength being detected. See “Watermark”.  
Level Pointer  
Master Frequency  
Menu  
The set of all frequencies that can be used on the SR-60. It is accessed through the  
Frequency Selection sub-menu.  
The calculated depth or distance to the Sonde or to the apparent center of the conductor  
being traced. This is a virtual measurement and may be inaccurate if distortion is  
present. Physical depth must be verified by potholing before excavating.  
Measured  
Depth/Distance  
A distinct operating state or method in which a system can be used. The SR-60 has  
three modes: Active Line tracing, Passive Line Tracing, and Sonde Locating.  
Mode  
Omnidirectional  
antenna  
A proprietary antenna technology which combines detection of electro-magnetic fields  
on three axes simultaneously. The SR-60 uses two Omnidirectional antennas.  
An advanced mode enabling the simultaneous search for signals on several frequency  
bands simultaneously: <4kHz, 4-15 kHz and 15-35kHz  
OmniSeek  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Glossary -- Definitions  
The display screen of the instrument as seen when locating. It includes an Active View  
area, where the Tracing Line appears in Line Trace modes, and where Pole and  
Equator icons appear in Sonde mode. It also includes Measured Depth, Signal Strength,  
Signal Angle, current and Proximity Signal values, depending on the mode and choice  
of options in use.  
Operating Screen  
A mode of tracing a line which does not use a transmitter to place current on the line. It  
is used when tracing lines which are energized from external sources such as 50/60 Hz  
electrical cables or conductors reflecting transient RF energy, etc.  
Passive Line  
Tracing  
Where the field lines from the Sonde exit the ground vertically. One of the two ends of a  
dipole field, such as the magnetic field of the Earth, or the field around a Sonde. The  
SR-60 displays a Pole icon when it detects the Poles of a Sonde.  
Pole  
A computed signal which reflects how close the operator is getting to the target utility in  
Line Trace modes. It is calculated based on the signal received by the two  
Omnidirectional antenna nodes of the SR-60.  
Proximity Signal  
Race Track  
An optional circular track around the outside of the Active View Area in which the Level  
Marker moves to show current Signal Strength graphically. It also contains the  
Watermark which shows the highest level of Signal Strength reached.  
Signal Angle  
The field angle measured relative to the horizontal plane.  
The relative strength of the total field signal detected by the lower Omnidirectional  
antenna in three dimensions.  
Signal Strength  
An advanced locating mode which makes it possible to simultaneously trace a  
pushcable emitting a 33kHz signal and also detect a 512k Sonde when it comes in  
range of the locator.  
SimulTrace ™  
Sonde  
A self contained transmitter, often battery-powered, which is used to signal a point within  
an underground pipe, tunnel, or conduit.  
The complete flow of energy from a transmitter, through a conductor, to ground, and  
from ground to the transmitter. When the tracing circuit is compromised for some  
reason, a weak signal and poor detection will result.  
Tracing Circuit  
An optional display icon which shows the highest level of Signal Strength detected. It  
travels in the Race Track and moves up when the Level Pointer reaches a new high  
point, providing a graphic indication of the highest signal detected. See Level Pointer.  
Watermark  
44  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Trouble Shooting Guide  
PROBLEM  
PROBABLE FAULT LOCATION  
SR-60 locks up during Power the unit off, and then back on. Remove the batteries if the unit will not switch off.  
use.  
If batteries are low, replace them.  
SR-60 will not pick up Check that the correct mode and frequency is set. Examine circuit for possible  
the signal.  
improvements. Relocate transmitter, change grounding, frequency, etc.; or modify  
Signal Focus Control settings (page 32).  
While tracing, lines  
are “jumping” all over  
the screen in the  
This indicates that the SR-60 is not picking up the signal or there is interference.  
Make sure that the transmitter is well connected and grounded. Point the SR-60 at  
either lead to be sure that there is a complete circuit.  
mapping display.  
Try a higher frequency, or connecting to a different point in the line, or switching to  
inductive mode.  
Try to determine the source of any noise and eliminate it. (Bonded grounding, etc.)  
Check SR-60 batteries are fresh and fully charged  
Check the batteries in the Sonde to see that they are working.  
While locating a  
Sonde, lines are  
“jumping” all over the  
screen.  
Sonde may be too far away; try starting with it closer in if possible, or do an area search.  
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 Batteries may be low. Replace with fresh batteries and power on.  
power down.  
Display appears  
Power the unit off and then back on.  
Adjust the LCD screen contrast.  
completely dark or  
completely light when  
it is switched on.  
There is no sound.  
Adjust the sound level in the sound menu. Verify Proximity Signal is greater than zero.  
SR-60 will not power  
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.)  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Specifications  
Default Settings  
Weight w/ batteries .......5.4 lbs. (2.5 kg)  
Weight w/o batteries .....4.7 lbs. (2.1 kg)  
Depth units = Feet & inches,  
Volume = 2 (two settings above mute)  
Backlight = Auto  
Dimensions  
Frequency = 33 kHz (Line Trace Mode)  
Length...........................14” (35.56 cm)  
Width ............................7” (17.78 cm)  
Height ...........................31” (78.74 cm)  
Standard Equipment  
Item  
Cat. #  
Power Source  
4
C-size  
batteries,  
1.5V  
Alkaline  
SR-60 Locator  
Markers and Mast Holder  
Stereo Sound-Pointer Speakers 30143  
Operator’s Manual  
4 C-cell batteries (Alkaline)  
Training Video (DVD)  
22163  
12543  
(ANSI/NEDA 14A, IEC LR14) or 1.2V NiMH  
or NiCad rechargeable batteries  
Power Rating: 6V, 550mA  
Signal Strength  
Non-linear in function. 2000 is 10x  
higher than 1000, 3000 is 10x higher  
then 2000, etc.  
Optional Equipment  
Additional Sonde Markers  
ST-33Q Transmitter  
ST-510 Transmitter  
Inductive Clamp (4.75”)  
Remote Sonde  
12543  
26168  
21903  
20973  
16728  
19783  
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)  
Float Sonde  
The SeekTech SR-60 is protected under U.S. Patents  
7009399, 7136765, and other Patents Pending.  
Frequencies Table  
The following table shows the frequencies available in the SR-60. The default frequencies shown are in Checked-  
Active status as shipped. Optional frequencies may be added as described on page 33.  
Optional Frequencies:  
Default Frequencies:  
Sonde...........................16 Hz, 512Hz, 640 Hz,  
850 Hz, 8 kHz, 16 kHz, 33 kHz  
Active Line Trace........ 128Hz, 1 kHz, 8kHz,  
33kHz, 200 kHz, 262  
SimulTrace...................512 Hz + 33 kHz  
Passive Line Trace......50 Hz, 50 Hz (5th), 50  
Hz (9th) 60 Hz, 60Hz (5th), 60Hz (9th), 100 Hz,  
120 Hz  
kHz; 93kHz (EU only)  
Power Line Trace........ 60Hz (9th), <4kHz  
Radio Frequencies: .... Low (4-15kHz),  
High (>15kHz)  
OmniSeek  
<4 kHz+4-15 kHz +  
15-35 kHz  
Exact Frequency Values (SR-60)  
16 Hz  
16.0  
50 Hz  
50  
128 Hz  
1 kHz  
128  
512 Hz 512.0  
640 Hz 640.0  
Sonde 850 Hz 850.0  
50 Hz5th  
250  
1024  
8192  
32768  
Active Line  
Trace  
50 Hz 9th 540  
8 kHz  
Passive Line  
Trace  
60 Hz  
60  
33 kHz  
93 kHz  
93 kHz-B  
60 Hz 5th 300  
60 Hz 9th 540  
93,696.0  
93,622.9  
European  
8 kHz  
8192  
16 kHz 16384  
33 kHz 32768  
46  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Manufacturers Frequency Table  
Displayed  
Option  
Available  
Frequencies  
Exact  
frequency (Hz)  
Company  
Model  
Notes  
577Hz  
8kHz  
577  
200 KHz not present  
in European model  
of the ST-510.  
8192  
32768  
200012  
821  
8217  
82488  
Dyna  
Fish  
3M Dynatel ™  
FISHER  
2273  
33kHz  
200kHz  
820Hz  
8.2kHz  
82kHz  
TW-8800  
512Hz  
8kHz  
65kHz  
512  
8192  
65536  
Gen  
Gen-Eye ™  
GOLDAK  
LCTX 512/8/65  
Not recommended  
for use with the ST-  
510 transmitter.  
Gold  
117.5kHz  
3300  
11750  
Not present in  
European model of  
the ST-510.  
Heath  
Consultants  
Incorporated  
8.1kHz  
81kHz  
480kHz  
8128  
480 KHz not present  
in European model  
of the ST-510.  
Heath  
ALLPRO  
81326  
480323  
9499  
9.5kHz  
38kHz  
Made by Takachiho  
Sanyo Co., Ltd.  
McLau  
McLAUGHLIN®  
VERIFIER  
37997  
982Hz  
9.8kHz  
82kHz  
83kHz  
982  
9890  
810 for 83kHz  
9820  
82488  
83080  
Metro  
METROTECH ®  
MicroE  
Mytan  
Microengineering 76.8kHz  
Xmtr-101  
PT20  
76802  
76802  
MyTana  
76.8kHz  
Not present in  
European model of  
the ST-510.  
Phorn  
PipeHorn  
480kHz  
479956  
512Hz  
8kHz  
33kHz  
65kHz  
82kHz  
200kHz  
512  
8193  
Radio Detection  
(Same as Gen-  
Eye ™ above)  
200 KHz not present  
in European model  
of the ST-510.  
(Same as LCTX 32768  
512/8/65 above) 65538  
81865  
RD  
200000  
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SeekTech SR-60  
Displayed  
Option  
Available  
Frequencies  
Exact  
frequency (Hz)  
Company  
Model  
Notes  
512Hz  
8kHz  
512  
8192  
32768  
51712  
200000  
128  
1024  
8192  
32768  
93623  
262144  
200k changed to  
93khz in European  
model of the ST-  
510.  
RIDGID (Old)  
Ridge Tool Co.  
33kHz  
51kHz  
200kHz  
128 Hz  
1 kHz  
262k, changed to  
93khz in European  
model of the ST-  
510.  
8 kHz  
RIDGID (New) Ridge Tool Co.  
33 kHz  
93 kHz  
262 kHz  
128 Hz  
1 kHz  
8 kHz  
33 kHz  
93 kHz  
128  
1024  
8192  
32768  
93696  
RIDGID-B  
Ridge Tool Co.  
(New)  
Older 93 kHz value  
815Hz  
82kHz  
815  
82318  
Ryco  
RYCOM  
8876  
128 Hz  
1kHz  
8kHz  
33kHz  
93kHz*  
262kHz  
128  
1024  
8192  
32768  
93696  
262144  
SeekTech-B  
Older 93 kHz value  
Schonstedt  
Instrument  
Company  
Schon  
Ssurf  
575Hz  
TraceMaster  
PL-2000  
575  
8kHz  
27kHz  
1kHz  
8kHz  
29kHz  
80kHz  
577Hz  
8055  
26721  
1170  
8009  
29430  
80429  
577  
Made by FUJI  
TECOM.  
SubSurface  
SUBSITE ®  
ELECTRONICS  
Ditch Witch ®  
SubS  
Telex  
950  
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What is covered  
RIDGID® tools are warranted to be free of defects in workmanship and material.  
How long coverage lasts  
This warranty lasts for the lifetime of the RIDGID® tool. Warranty coverage ends when the product becomes  
unusable for reasons other than defects in workmanship or material.  
How you can get service  
To obtain the benefit of this warranty, deliver via prepaid transportation the complete product to RIDGE TOOL  
COMPANY, Elyria, Ohio, or any authorized RIDGID® INDEPENDENT SERVICE CENTER. Pipe wrenches and  
other hand tools should be returned to the place of purchase.  
What we will do to correct problems  
Warranted products will be repaired or replaced, at RIDGE TOOL’S option, and returned at no charge; or, if after  
three attempts to repair or replace during the warranty period the product is still defective, you can elect to receive a  
full refund of your purchase price.  
What is not covered  
Failures due to misuse, abuse or normal wear and tear are not covered by this warranty. RIDGE TOOL shall not be  
responsible for any incidental or consequential damages.  
How local law relates to the warranty  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation  
or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific rights, and you may also have other rights,  
which vary, from state to state, province to province, or country to country.  
No other express warranty applies  
This FULL LIFETIME WARRANTY is the sole and exclusive warranty for RIDGID® products. No employee, agent,  
dealer, or other person is authorized to alter this warranty or make any other warranty on behalf of the RIDGE  
TOOL COMPANY.  
Ridge Tool Company  
400 Clark Street  
Elyria, Ohio 44036-2023  
Part Number : 748-028-601-0A  
Rev. A  
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