Why does my locator signal seem wide?

Sensitivity (gain) is likely too high. Lowering sensitivity tightens the signal field and makes the center easier to identify.

Why does the peak move as I walk?

This can occur when signal is coupling onto nearby conductors or when grounding is poor.

Does a locator show the pipe itself?

No. A locator detects the electromagnetic field around a conductor, not the physical pipe.

What if the tone never drops off?

The receiver sensitivity is set too high or the signal is bleeding onto adjacent utilities.

Can different frequencies affect pinpointing?

Yes. Higher frequencies tend to spread more easily onto nearby conductors, while lower frequencies stay tighter to the intended line.

contractors Archives | Pipehorn Locating Technology

Before You Dig: 5 Questions Every Contractor Should Ask Before Excavation

Before You Dig: 5 Questions Every Contractor Should Ask Before Excavation Before You Break Ground Every excavation project begins with decisions that affect the safety of everyone on the jobsite. Whether you’re digging, trenching, directional drilling (HDD), grading a site, installing underground infrastructure, or preparing a jobsite for construction, your responsibility is the same: making sure it’s safe to break ground. […]

Tag: contractors

Before You Dig: 5 Questions Every Contractor Should Ask Before Excavation