Inductive Locating is when you apply the tracer signal on the conductor without making a direct electrical contact (without hooking up).  It can speed up your locating process if used correctly.  Locating inductively is excellent for when you do not have a place to hook up, or if you are trying to locate poor conductors.  You can also sweep an area inductively to find all of the conductors in that area.

The ideal setup during inductive locating, is to place the transmitter directly over, and oriented to the target conductor.  This will maximize the signal placed on the target.  It is best to not place the transmitter at the end of a line or over a metal cover; move it in a few feet from the end to allow the signal to have a better return path.

If you have a known point to start from, such as a meter or above ground marker whose conductor is in-accessible, place the transmitter next to it (not on it).  This will apply signal to the line that runs to that point.  Trace it out for some distance and verify the locate.  To verify, mark the conductor out away from the starting point, place the transmitter there, and then trace the signal back to the source.

Download the Quick Guide!