September 2013, Vol. 68 No. 9
Equipment Spotlight
Tracking Systems, Walkover Locators: Equipment Spotlight
Walkover locators from Ditch Witch, Radiodetection/SPX Corp. and Digital Control Inc.
Ditch Witch
The UtiliGuard utility locating system measures distances (depth) both horizontally and vertically to the utility for faster, more accurate locates of underground utilities. The system’s Ambient Interference Measurement automatically scans the surrounding area for noise and recommends the best frequency among its 70 options. The system has an intuitive, six-button, multi-language operator interface and a high-contrast LCD display to ensure visibility in all conditions, including direct sunlight. A dual-output feature allows users to connect the transmitter to two utilities at once and the system is Bluetooth-enabled to simplify data transfers. Its rugged housing with IP65 rating protects against a job site’s dusty, dirty and wet conditions, and its transmitter and receiver battery life is 100 and 30 hours, respectively. 800.645.6481, ditchwitch.com
Radiodetection/SPX Corp.
The itrack system provides accurate walkover guidance information for HDD machines. The system comprises an itrack receiver, a DataView unit, one or more DataSondes and Radiodetection’s Borelog software. The itrack DataView uses a row of nine LEDs to provide remote steering information to the machine operator. The large LCD also displays real-time data transmitted from the DataSonde via the itrack Receiver. This provides machine operators with accurate information on tilt angle, roll position, depth, remote left/ right steering and alarm conditions. The DataSonde, when housed in the drill head, emits a locate signal and transmits information about its position and status, including tilt angle, roll position and temperature information. The Borelog software package allows the user to download drilling data stored in the itrack Receiver. 877.247.3797, radiodetection.com
Digital Control Inc.
Ease of use, speed and accuracy are the hallmarks of the new line of DCI locators and most of the challenges faced by contractors today can be answered by one or more from this new line. The F Series includes the new five-frequency F5, the dual frequency F2, and the streamlined SE locators. Characteristic of all three systems are DCI’s patented 3D antenna technology, target-in-the-box locating, and the intuitive icon-driven menus. 800.288.3610, digital-control.com
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