Directional Drilling Locating System Operator’s Manual DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED DCI Europe Kurmainzer Strasse 56 D-97836 Bischbrunn Germany Tel +49(0) 9394 990 990 Fax +49(0) 9394 990 999 DCI.Europe@digital-control.com DCI India DTJ 1023, DLF Tower A Jasola District Center New Delhi 110 044, India Tel +91(0) 11 4507 0444 Fax +91(0) 11 4507 0440 DCI.India@digital-control.com DCI China No. 368, Xingle Road Huacao Town, Minhang District Shanghai P.R.C.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED 3-2500-00-B1 © 2010-2011 by Digital Control Incorporated. All rights reserved. February 2011. Trademarks The DCI logo, CableLink®, DataLog®, DigiTrak®, Eclipse®, F2®, iGPS®, MFD®, SST®, target-in-the-box®, Target Steering®, and TensiTrak® are U.S. registered trademarks and DucTrak™, F5™, F Series™, FSD™, FasTrak™, LT™, LT2™, SE™, SED™, SuperCell™, and TeleLock™ are trademarks of Digital Control Incorporated.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Table of Contents SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS............................................................................................... 6 DEAR CUSTOMER:...................................................................................................................................... 8 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 9 RECEIVER ....................
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Keypad .................................................................................................................................................... 43 Power On/Off ........................................................................................................................................... 43 Audible Tones..........................................................................................................................................
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Target Steering in Interference Areas ..................................................................................................... 83 Turn Off Target Steering.......................................................................................................................... 83 APPENDIX A: SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS ............................ 85 Power Requirements ...........................................................................
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Safety Precautions and Warnings Important Note: All operators must read and understand the following Safety Precautions and Warnings and must review this operator’s manual before using the DigiTrak® F5™ Locating System. Serious injury and death can result if underground drilling equipment makes contact with an underground utility such as a high-voltage electrical cable or a natural gas line.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Safety Precautions and Warnings (Continued) BATTERY DISPOSAL: This symbol on equipment indicates that the equipment must not be disposed of with your other household waste. Instead, it is your responsibility to dispose of such equipment by handing it over to a designated collection point for the recycling of batteries or electrical and electronic equipment.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Dear Customer: Thank you for choosing the DigiTrak® F5™ Locating System. We are proud of the equipment that we have been designing and building in Washington State since 1990. We believe in providing a unique, high-quality product and standing behind it with superior customer service and training. Please take the time to read this entire manual—especially the section on safety.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Introduction Remote Display Receiver Battery Charger Rechargeable Battery Packs FXL Transmitter F5 Transmitter FS Transmitter DigiTrak F5 Locating System The DigiTrak F5 Locating System is used during horizontal directional drilling operations to locate and track a transmitter installed in the drill head.
Introduction This manual provides information on each F5 system component—the receiver, transmitter, remote display, and battery charger—in separate sections following this Introduction. The next section, System Setup, gives information for setting up the system components prior to drilling, including verification of proper system communication and calibration.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Receiver Toggle (Thumb Switch) Display Screen Grip Trigger Switch Handle Battery Tab Battery Compartment Front Panel Boot Serial Number Telemetry Frequency Designation F5 Receiver – Side and Back Views General Description The F5 receiver is a handheld unit used for locating, tracking, and mapping the path of an F5 or F Series transmitter.
Receiver Trigger Switch – Used to turn on the receiver, to select menu options, and to change the screen view for depth readings. Is either clicked or held in, depending on the desired action. Audible Tones The F5 receiver beeps to signal power on/off, to confirm menu changes, and to acknowledge the pass/fail status of actions, as summarized below. The receiver also beeps with transmitter temperature increases (see “Transmitter Temperature Warning Tones” in the Transmitter section).
Receiver Receiver Warning Screen You must pull and release (click) the trigger switch to acknowledge that you have read and understand this manual. If all items of the self-test passed, the startup screen shown below will display. Regional Designation Number (Must Match that of Transmitter) System Name Receiver ID Number Software Version Web Address Customer Service Phone Numbers Receiver Startup Screen Click the trigger to exit the startup screen and open the main menu (see “Main Menu” below).
Receiver Main Menu To access the main menu from the startup screen, click the trigger. When locating, you can access the main menu by pushing the toggle switch down (toward the handle). Use the toggle to highlight different menu options and click the trigger to select menu items. The main menu appears on two different screens, as shown below. A down arrow in the lower right corner indicates more menu options below (on the next screen); an up arrow indicates more options above (on the previous screen).
Receiver Receiver Main Menu Options Locate Mode – Opens the locate mode screen where transmitter data is displayed. See “Locate Mode” below. Power Off – Turns the unit off accompanied by four short beeps. Calibration Menu – Calibrates the receiver to the transmitter using the aboveground (1-point) method or the below-ground (2-point) method. See “Calibration Menu” below. Height-Above-Ground (HAG) Menu – Turns on, turns off, or sets the height at which the receiver will be held during depth readings.
Receiver time data about the transmitter’s location, temperature, pitch, roll, fluid pressure (when a fluid pressure transmitter is used), and signal strength. See “Display Screens” later in this section for more information about the locate mode screen.
Receiver Calibration is necessary prior to first-time use and before a different transmitter, receiver, or drill head is to be used. See “Calibrate Receiver to Transmitter” in the System Setup section for complete calibration instructions. Height-Above-Ground (HAG) Menu The height-above-ground (HAG) function allows you to program a height measurement into the receiver so that you do not have to set the receiver on the ground for a depth reading. The HAG menu has three options: enable, disable, and set.
Receiver Pitch Units Menu Depth Units Menu (Shown Highlighted) Set Time and Calendar Roll Offset Menu Telemetry Channel Menu Exit Current Setting of Highlighted Option Receiver Settings Menu Any changes made to settings will be saved when the receiver is turned off. DCI recommends that you program the receiver settings and the remote display settings to match each other.
Receiver Time Value (Date Displays Here When the Calendar Is the Active Function) Time (Shown Active) Calendar (Shown Inactive) Return Arrow (Shown Highlighted) Exit Time and Calendar Keypad (Time Active) Setting the Time The time function runs on a 24-hour clock. To set the time: 1. Use the toggle to highlight the time icon so that it is the active function, as shown above, and click the trigger. 2. Select the desired value for time one digit at a time from left to right.
Receiver 4. Toggle to highlight the return arrow and click the trigger to select it. The confirmation signal will sound as the screen returns to the settings menu with the exit option highlighted. Telemetry Channel Menu The telemetry channel menu has five telemetry settings (1, 2, 3, 4, and 0) and an exit option. The current setting is automatically highlighted for selection when the telemetry channel menu is accessed.
Receiver Current Transmitter Selection Highlighted for Selection Down Arrow Indicates Additional Menu Items (Toggle Down) Description of Item Highlighted for Selection Transmitter Selection Menu, First Screen Exit Up Arrow Indicates Additional Menu Items (Toggle Up) Transmitter Selection Menu, Second Screen Use the toggle switch to highlight the desired transmitter type then click the trigger.
Receiver Setup DataLog Job Delete DataLog Jobs Upload DataLog Job to a Computer Set Survey Point View DataLog Jobs Enable/Disable DataLog (Green if Enabled, Red if Disabled) Description of Highlighted Item Standard DataLog Menu, First Screen Exit (Returns to Main Menu) Will Read “Disabled, click to enable” if Logging Is Disabled Standard Datalog Menu, Second Screen The DataLog option allows you to record your pilot hole drill data electronically.
Receiver Backspace Display Window Return Arrow (Shown Highlighted for Selection) Decimal Point Exit (Returns to Main Menu) Standard Keypad To input a value, use the toggle switch to highlight the number or decimal you want to select, then click the trigger to select it. Do this for each digit from left to right. To delete the last digit entered, select the backspace button. Once the desired number is in the display window, select the return arrow to lock in the value and turn on the function.
Receiver Display Screens The basic receiver screens include the locate mode screen, the depth mode screen, and the predicted depth screen. These are presented below. For more information regarding these screens and for detailed locating instructions, please see the Locating section. Locate Mode Display Screen The first option in the main menu is the locate mode option, which displays the locate mode screen.
Receiver When a fluid pressure transmitter is used, the locate mode screen has an additional field as shown below. Fluid Pressure on Transmitter (Displays in Bars when Using Metric Units) Locate Mode Screen with Fluid Pressure Data Depth Mode Display Screen The depth mode screen displays when the trigger is held in with the receiver at the locate line (LL). See the Locating section for information on how to position the receiver at the locate line.
Receiver Predicted Depth Display Screen The predicted depth screen displays when the receiver is positioned at the front or rear locate point (FLP or RLP) and the trigger is held in. The predicted depth is the depth the transmitter is calculated to be at when it reaches the front locate point if it continues on its current trajectory. The predicted depth is only valid at the FLP. See the Locating section for more information.
Receiver Standard Receiver Display Screen Symbols Transmitter Roll – Shows the transmitter’s roll position. A line points to the roll position, and the roll value appears in the center of the clock. The number of clock positions is a function of the transmitter (12 or 24). When roll offset is used, the letters “RO” appear at the bottom left. Warning Symbol – Appears when there has been a failure in the self-test.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Transmitter Types of F5 Transmitters DCI manufactures several different transmitters for use with the F5 system with a total of five frequency options (1.3 kHz, 8.4 kHz, 12 kHz, 18.5 kHz, 19.2 kHz). All F Series and F5 transmitters provide pitch readings in 0.1% or 0.1° increments (from 0% to 100% or 0° to 45°). F5 transmitters display roll in 24 clock positions, whereas F Series transmitters display roll in 12 clock positions.
Transmitter The short-range FS transmitter provides a depth range of approximately 15 ft (4.6 m). It measures 8 in. (20.32 cm) long and 1.00 in. (2.54 cm) in diameter and is available in a 12-kHz version. Index Slot Front End Cap Temp Dot Regional Designation Number Short-Range FS Transmitter with Closeup of Front End Cap The FC cable transmitter provides a depth range of approximately 90 ft (27.4 m). It measures 19 in. (48.26 cm) long and 1.25 in. (3.
Transmitter Summary of Transmitters Compatible with F5 System Type Transmitter Model Description Range* Frequency F Series FS Short range 15 ft (4.6 m) 12 kHz F Series FX Long range 65 ft (19.8 m) 12 kHz F Series FX 19.2 Long range 65 ft (19.8 m) 19.2 kHz F Series FXL Extended long range 85 ft (25.9 m) 12 kHz F Series FXL 19.2 Extended long range 85 ft (25.9 m) 19.2 kHz F5 5X 18.5 Long range 65 ft (19.8 m) 18.5 kHz F5 5X 8.4 Long range 65 ft (19.8 m) 8.4 kHz F5 5XD 19/12 Long range 65 ft (19.8 m) 19.
Transmitter Dual-frequency transmitters must be in the appropriate orientation (pointing up or pointing down) for the desired frequency when the batteries are installed, as shown below. C-Cell SuperCell™ To Operate 5XD 12/1.3 or F5Dp 12/1.3 Transmitter in Single High (SH) Mode (12 kHz) C-Cell Load Batteries with Transmitter Pointing Up Load Batteries with Transmitter Pointing Down To Operate 5XD 12/1.3 or F5Dp 12/1.3 Transmitter in Dual High (DH) Mode (12 kHz) or Dual Low (DL) Mode (1.
Transmitter A small amount of charge will continue to drain from the batteries while the transmitter is in sleep mode. To conserve battery life, do not leave batteries in the transmitter when they can easily be removed, and always remove batteries when the transmitter is not being used. Transmitter Housing Requirements For maximum transmitter range and battery life, the slots in the drill housing must meet minimum length and width requirements and be correctly positioned.
Transmitter For the FC cable transmitter (19 in./48.26 cm long), the slots must be at least 9 in. (22.9 cm) long and begin at least 2.5 in. (6.4 cm) from the front or index cap end of the transmitter, as shown below. Slot Position Wireline End Front End Cap Slot Length 9 in. (22.9 cm) 2.5 in. (6.4 cm) FC Transmitter Housing Slot Requirements The transmitter must fit snugly in the housing.
Transmitter The available menu options for each transmitter model are listed in the table below. Once an option is selected, you will be returned to the main menu with the type and frequency of the transmitter selected displayed at the top of the menu screens. Transmitter Selection Menu Options Menu Option Clock Positions Menu Option Freq. 5XD 19/12 19.2 kHz 24 FC 12 12 kHz 12 5XD 19/12 12 kHz 24 F5Dp 19/12 19.2 kHz 24 5XD 12/1.
Transmitter If a new transmitter option is selected, calibration will be required. Calibration is not required, however, when switching between transmitters that were previously calibrated. Calibration is required every time a new F5 or F Series transmitter, F5 receiver, or different housing is used. NOTE: When using a 5XD 12/1.3 or a F5Dp 12/1.3 dual-frequency transmitter, you only need to calibrate under one of the dual options, DH or DL, for both dual frequencies, 12 kHz and 1.3 kHz, to be calibrated.
Transmitter Temperature Status and Overheat Indicator All DigiTrak transmitters are equipped with an internal digital thermometer. The transmitter temperature is displayed on the bottom right of the receiver and remote display screens next to the transmitter . Normal drilling temperatures range from 64°F (16°C) to 104°F (40°C). You temperature symbol should suspend drilling when temperatures exceed 95°F (35°C) to permit cooling.
Transmitter Transmitter Overheat Indicator (Temp Dot) The transmitter has a temperature overheat indicator (temp dot) on the front end cap. The temp dot has an outer yellow ring with a 1/8-inch (3-mm) white dot in the center. The white dot will change color if the transmitter is exposed to excessive heat.
Transmitter Notes DigiTrak® F5™ Operator’s Manual 39
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Remote Display Removable Visor Antenna Keypad Serial Number Direction Buttons Telemetry Frequency Designations Execute Button Display Screen Magnetic Base Battery Pack or Brace Insert DigiTrak F Series Display (FSD) Front and Back General Description The DigiTrak F Series Display (FSD) is a multifunction remote that can be used with a variety of DigiTrak receivers.
Remote Display Power Options The FSD remote can be powered by either an F Series battery pack or DC power. A brace insert is provided with the system for use when powering the FSD with DC power. It is the same size as the battery pack, and it is installed and removed in the same manner as the battery pack.
Remote Display Keypad The keypad to the right of the display window is used to operate the FSD remote. Execute Button – The execute button (curved arrow) turns on the FSD unit and selects a highlighted menu option. It is also used for adjusting contrast and for executing menu options. It functions like the trigger switch on the receiver. Direction Buttons – The up/down, left/right arrow buttons are used to navigate through menu options.
Remote Display Adjusting the Viewing Angle The FSD remote allows you to adjust the viewing angle through a range of 180° left/right, 90° up/down, and 270° about the display’s center. Up/Down – Loosen and squeeze the two knobs on the back of the remote display, then adjust the screen as desired and tighten the knobs. If the knobs are loose, the display will hold its vertical position only until the knobs are squeezed together or the display is vibrated.
Remote Display Main Menu The main menu is accessed by pushing the down arrow button. It displays the menu options with the remote mode option automatically highlighted for selection. Power Off Remote Mode (Shown Highlighted) Settings Menu Contrast Adjustment Information Description of Highlighted Option Cable Mode Option FSD Main Menu Screen Use the arrow buttons to highlight an option, and press the execute button to select that option.
Remote Display Remote Mode The remote mode option opens the FSD main display screen, which is the default screen you will see after turning on the FSD remote. It shows the transmitter pitch, roll, battery status, and temperature. The main screen also shows the FSD battery status, receiver type, telemetry channel, telemetry update meter, and Target Steering data (if active). To exit this screen at any time, press the down arrow button to return to the main menu.
Remote Display The table below shows the menu options as they appear on the display with descriptions of their uses. Any changes that are made to the settings will be saved when the FSD unit is turned off. DCI recommends that you program the FSD settings to match the settings on your receiver. FSD Settings Menu Options Telemetry Channel – Opens telemetry channel options: 1, 2, 3, and 4. The remote and the receiver must be set to the same channel and must have the same telemetry frequency designation.
Remote Display Using the left or right arrow button on the remote, select the desired action: either decrease contrast (left arrow), increase contrast (right arrow), or the curved arrow. Adjust the contrast by pressing the remote’s execute button after you have selected the decrease or increase contrast arrow. Each time the execute button is pressed, the contrast will change incrementally.
Remote Display Depth Display Screen The depth or predicted depth of the transmitter can be viewed on the remote display, but only when the receiver is positioned at the locate line (LL) or at the front locate point (FLP) with its trigger held in. See “Locate Points (FLP & RLP) and Locate Line (LL)” in the Locating section for information on correctly positioning the receiver.
Remote Display Predicted Depth Display Screen The predicted depth display screen appears when the receiver is positioned at the front or rear locate point (FLP or RLP) and the trigger is held in. However, the predicted depth is only valid at the FLP. The predicted depth display will show arrows pointing to the receiver and the predicted depth point ahead of the transmitter. For more information about the predicted depth, see the Locating section.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Battery Charger AC Adapter AC Power Cord F Series Battery Charger F Series Battery Packs DC Power Cord F Series Battery Charger System General Description The DigiTrak F Series Battery Charger (FBC) system includes AC and DC power cords, an AC adapter, and three rechargeable F Series battery packs. The battery packs are used to power the F5 receiver and the FSD remote. The AC power cord provided with your system is standard to your global area of operation.
Battery Charger AC/DC Power Setup Red LED Install either the AC adapter or the DC power cord by inserting the charger plug into the power port of the battery charger (see photo to the right) and then rotating it a quarter turn in either direction to lock it in place. If using AC power, connect the AC power cord to the AC adapter, then plug the cord into an AC power receptacle (wall outlet). If using DC power, plug the DC power cord directly into the DC power source.
Battery Charger Warnings and Precautions DCI assumes no liability for problems that occur when you do not follow these warnings and precautions, as well as the general precautions outlined in the Safety Precautions and Warnings section. WARNING: The charger is designed with adequate safeguards to protect you from shock and other hazards when used as specified within this manual. If you use the charger in a manner not specified by this document, the protection provided by the charger may be impaired.
Battery Charger Notes 54 DigiTrak® F5™ Operator’s Manual
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED System Setup This section details the steps required to set up the F5 locating system and prepare for locating. Actual locating instructions are provided in the Locating section. The following steps are required: Power on receiver, remote, and transmitter Conduct interference check Calibrate receiver to transmitter and/or verify calibration Set roll offset, if required Set height-above-ground (HAG) distance Power on Receiver, Remote, and Transmitter Receiver 1.
System Setup Conduct Interference Check What Interference Is and How to Check for It Before drilling (preferably before bidding on a project) the interference potential at your site should be evaluated. Interference can reduce the transmitter’s range or cause variable readings and possibly result in job slowdowns. Interference comes from two different types of sources: active and passive.
System Setup Roll/Pitch Check LL At the end of the bore path, turn the receiver to face toward the launch end, and install batteries in the transmitter to power it up. Have a coworker hold the transmitter and stand a distance to your side approximately 1.5 times the maximum depth of your intended bore. Walk together in parallel back toward the launch end keeping the separation distance constant.
System Setup Calibrate Receiver to Transmitter The receiver must be calibrated to the transmitter prior to first-time use and each time a different transmitter, receiver, or drill head is used. The transmitter must be installed in the drill housing during the calibration procedure (see “Transmitter Housing Requirements” in the Transmitter section). There are two calibration options: 1-point calibration (with the transmitter above ground) and 2-point calibration (with the transmitter below ground).
System Setup Exit (Returns to Main Menu) Retry Calibration Failure Screen – Signal Strength Too Low (Left) or Too High (Right) Click the trigger to retry the calibration or toggle right to select exit and return to the main menu. If the calibration failure screen appears, verify your setup and try again or call DCI Customer Service. 1-Point Calibration (Above Ground) 1. Place the receiver and the transmitter (in its housing) on level ground, with both devices powered up.
System Setup 4. Click the trigger to initiate calibration. The screen will show that the receiver is calibrating. Do not move the receiver. Calibration-In-Progress Screen 5. When calibration is complete, the confirmation signal will sound and a checkmark will display on the screen, indicating a successful calibration. The screen will then return to the locate mode display. If calibration fails, two long beeps will sound and the calibration failure screen will display.
System Setup 4. From the receiver main menu, select the calibration menu option, and then select the 2-point calibration option. The following screen will display. 2-Point Calibration, Obtain 1st Point 5. Click the trigger to obtain the first calibration point. The calibration-in-progress screen will display. Do not move the receiver. 6. Once the first calibration point is obtained, the second calibration point screen will appear. 2-Point Calibration, Obtain 2nd Point 7.
System Setup Set Roll Offset If you cannot align the 12 o’clock position of the transmitter to that of the drill head, you will need to set and enable the roll offset. The roll offset function electronically compensates to match the transmitter’s 12 o’clock position to the drill head’s 12 o’clock position. To access the roll offset function, open the receiver main menu and then select the settings menu. From the settings menu, select the roll offset menu option.
System Setup If the receiver does not detect a roll signal from the transmitter, the roll offset operation will fail and the following screen will display. Roll Offset Failure Screen Click the trigger to retry setting the roll offset or toggle right to select exit and return to the settings menu. If the roll offset failure screen appears, verify the setup and try again or contact DCI Customer Service.
System Setup Set and Enable HAG Disable HAG Exit Enable HAG (Shown Highlighted) Description of Highlighted Selection with Current HAG Setting in Inches or Meters HAG Menu Screen 3. Click the trigger to enable the HAG at the value shown at the bottom of the screen. The confirmation signal will sound as the screen returns to the main menu. Depth readings must be taken with the receiver held at this height.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Locating Locating in High-Interference Area with the F5 Receiver Locating with the F5 system is relatively easy and intuitive, but you must understand some locating basics first. This section begins by explaining the locate points (FLP and RLP) and locate line (LL); the geometry of these elements with respect to the transmitter; and the proper method for marking locate points once they are found.
Locating Locating Basics Locate Points (FLP & RLP) and Locate Line (LL) The F5 receiver locates the transmitter by detecting three specific places in the transmitter’s magnetic field: the locate points and the locate line. The locate points are indistinguishable from one another by the receiver. They represent similar points in the transmitter’s field in front of and behind the transmitter. The front locate point (FLP) is ahead of the transmitter, and the rear locate point (RLP) is behind the transmitter.
Locating Effects of Depth, Pitch, and Topography on Distance Between FLP and RLP In general, the deeper the transmitter is, the further apart the FLP and RLP will be. The distance between the FLP and RLP with respect to the location of the LL is also a function of the transmitter pitch and the topography. (For more information, see Appendix B.) When the transmitter pitch is negative, the FLP will be further from the LL than the RLP (see figure below).
Locating Marking Locate Points The locate points (FLP and RLP) and the locate line (LL) must be found and accurately marked during the locating procedure. To mark a locate point after you have found it, stand with the receiver level at the locate point. Look down the vertical axis that runs through the center of the display to project a plumb line to the ground (see figure below). The point where this plumb line hits the ground is the location that you should mark.
Locating Standard Method for Locating the Transmitter With the F5 system, you can locate the transmitter and its heading while it moves, whether standing in front of it, behind it, or toward the side. You can also locate the transmitter facing either toward or away from the drill rig. The standard method described in this section guides you to the transmitter while standing out in front of it, facing the drill rig. This is the recommended method for locating.
Locating 3. Observe the position of the locating target ( ) relative to the receiver box on the display. The figures below illustrate what you might see on the display and the actual position of the receiver, transmitter, and locate points. Note that the FLP is ahead of and to the left of the receiver, as shown in the receiver display. RLP Locating “Target” LL “Box” FLP Receiver Locate Mode Screen Actual Position of Receiver and Transmitter 4.
Locating The depth value given at the FLP is the predicted depth, which is the depth the transmitter is calculated to be at when it reaches the location beneath the receiver. If the heading of the transmitter changes before it reaches the location under the receiver, the predicted depth reading will no longer be accurate. NOTE: To verify that the signal is balanced through the receiver’s antenna, carefully rotate the receiver 360° about the center of the display keeping the receiver level.
Locating Locate Line (Red When Not Aligned in Box for Depth Reading) RLP LL FLP Yaw (Left/Right) Rotation of Transmitter Relative to Receiver) Receiver Locate Mode Screen (Approaching LL) Actual Position of Receiver and Transmitter NOTE: Do not rely on the alignment of the ball with the vertical crosshair to identify the left/right position of the transmitter.
Locating Finding the RLP to Confirm Transmitter Heading and Position Finding the RLP will allow you to confirm the transmitter’s heading and position. Like the FLP, the RLP is represented as a target ( ) on the receiver display. Once the RLP is found, you will connect the RLP to the FLP with a line that represents the exact heading of the transmitter. The transmitter is located beneath the point where this line intersects the LL. Continue the locating procedure as follows: 11.
Locating 13. Mark the location directly below the receiver’s display screen on the ground as the RLP. 14. Connect the RLP to the FLP with a straight line. This line represents the transmitter’s heading. The exact position of the transmitter is located beneath where this line and the LL cross. 15. Position the receiver at the intersection of these lines with the LL passing through the center of the box on the display and hold the trigger in to take a depth reading.
Locating Tracking “On-the-Fly” If you are running at 0% (0°) pitch over level ground, the predicted depth will be the actual depth. In this case, all locating can be done at the FLP while the tool is moving. Once the transmitter has been found and its heading is on line, position yourself the distance of one rod length in front of the FLP on the intended bore path with the receiver facing the drill and sitting level on the ground.
Locating RLP LL FLP Receiver Screen Tracking "On-the-Fly" Actual Position of Receiver and Transmitter As the tool advances, the FLP should travel along the receiver’s vertical crosshairs indicating that the tool is still on line. Once the FLP is in the box, hold the trigger in and confirm that the predicted depth reading is as expected. Off-Track Locating The off-track locating technique is useful when it is not possible to walk above the transmitter due to a surface obstruction or interference.
Locating Bore Path Obstruction Path Around Obstruction LL P1 P2 P3 Predetermined Distances Drill Preparing for Off-Track Locating 3. While still holding the trigger in and keeping the receiver in the same orientation, step to the side of the tool another predetermined distance (P2) further away from it. Move the receiver forward and aft until you can see the ball jump from the bottom of the screen to the top of the screen (or vice versa), then mark this location. 4.
Locating 6. As drilling continues, the tool should be steered to maintain a constant slant distance at each of the points P1, P2, and P3. If the slant distance increases, the tool is moving away; if the slant distance decreases, the tool is moving toward the side position. Note: Differences in pitch will also affect the signal strength and slant distance as the tool progresses.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED The Target Steering Function The Target Steering function allows the F5 receiver to be placed out ahead of the drill head and used as a steering target. The receiver is positioned on level ground so that it is facing in the same direction as the drilling. To activate the Target Steering function, you must program the receiver with the desired target depth.
Target Steering The Target Steering procedure requires correct placement of the receiver. Place the receiver out in front of the transmitter on the bore path with its back end (where the battery pack is inserted) facing the drill or the last locate points if drilling a curved path. The maximum horizontal distance from the transmitter that the receiver should be placed is approximately 35 ft (10.7 m). Beyond this distance the up/down information becomes less accurate.
Target Steering Roll Indicator Locating Target (FLP) Roll/Pitch Update Meter Horizontal Distance Between Transmitter and Receiver Transmitter Pitch Transmitter Temperature Approximate Depth of Transmitter Target Steering Locate Mode Screen Steering to the Target Once the target depth has been entered on the receiver and the receiver has been positioned ahead of the tool as the target, select remote mode from the remote’s main menu (see “Main Menu” in the Remote Display section).
Target Steering The steering indicator in this case shows that the drill head is to the left and too high for the intended path. The steering indicator should be dead center in the display if you are correctly heading to your programmed target depth. A steering command of 4 o’clock would bring the drill head toward the target. Note that, for quick viewing and interpretation, the pointed end of the steering indicator corresponds to the clock position of the head.
Target Steering Target Steering in Interference Areas In areas of passive and/or active interference, it may be advisable to physically elevate the receiver above the ground. In the example below, the receiver is placed 3 ft (or 1 m) above the ground. To compensate, the target depth value will be set to 8'6" (2.6 m).
Target Steering Notes 3-2500-00-B1 84 DigiTrak® F5™ Operator’s Manual
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Appendix A: System Specifications and Maintenance Requirements The power requirements, environmental requirements, and equipment maintenance requirements for the DigiTrak F5 Locating System are listed below. Power Requirements Device (Model Number) DigiTrak F5 Receiver (F5R) DigiTrak F Series Display (FSD) DigiTrak F Series Battery Charger (FBC) DigiTrak F Series Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (FBP) DigiTrak FS Transmitter DigiTrak F Series Transmitters (FX, FXL, 5XD 12/1.
Appendix A General Transmitter Care Instructions Periodically clean the spring and threads inside the battery compartment as well as the spring and threads of the battery end cap to ensure a proper power connection with the batteries. An emery cloth or wire brush can be used to remove any oxidation that has built up. Be careful not to damage the battery cap O-ring; remove it while cleaning if necessary.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Appendix B: Projected Depth Versus Actual Depth and the Fore/Aft Offset What Happens When the Transmitter Is Steep and Deep The signal field emitted by the transmitter, as shown in Figure B1, consists of a set of elliptical signals or flux lines. The flux lines indicate the position of the transmitter.
Appendix B Due to the shape of the transmitter’s signal field (flux lines), when it is at a pitch greater than ±30% (±17°) and/or a depth of 15 ft (4.6 m) or more, the position of the locate line will be some distance ahead of or behind the transmitter’s actual position. In this case, the depth displayed on the receiver becomes what is called the projected depth. The transmitter’s distance ahead of or behind the locate line is called the fore/aft offset.
Appendix B The locate points (FLP and RLP) are also shown in Figure B2. These points are located at the vertical components of the signal field, as illustrated with short vertical yellow lines in the figure above. Note that the locate points are not the same distance from the LL when the transmitter is pitched. Again, this situation requires compensation for the projected depth and the fore/aft offset.
Appendix B Table B2. Determining Fore/Aft Offset from Displayed (Projected) Depth and Pitch Pitch→ Displayed Depth ↓ 5' (1.52 m) 10' (3.05 m) 15' (4.57 m) 20' (6.10 m) 25' (7.62 m) 30' (9.14 m) 35' (10.67 m) 40' (12.19 m) 45' (13.72 m) 50' (15.24 m) ±10% (5.7°) ±20% (11°) ±30% (17°) ±40% (22°) ±50% (27°) ±60% (31°) ±75% (37°) ±90% (42°) ±100% (45°) 4" (0.10 m) 8" (0.20 m) 1' (0.30 m) 1' 4" (0.41 m) 1' 8" (0.51 m) 2' (0.61 m) 2' 4" (0.71 m) 2' 8" (0.81 m) 3' (0.91 m) 3' 4" (1.02 m) 8" (0.
Appendix B Table B4 allows you to calculate the exact projected depth reading as well as the actual depth using a multiplier. Values for the multiplier, or conversion factor, are provided at different transmitter pitches. Table B4. Conversion Factors for Calculating Exact Projected Depth or Actual Depth Pitch → From Actual to Projected Depth From Projected to Actual Depth ±10% (5.7°) ±20% (11°) ±30% (17°) ±40% (22°) ±50% (27°) ±60% (31°) ±75% (37°) ±90% (42°) 1.005 1.025 1.06 1.105 1.155 1.
Appendix B Notes 92 DigiTrak® F5™ Operator’s Manual
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Appendix C: Calculating Depth Based on Distance Between FLP and RLP It is possible to estimate the transmitter depth should the information displayed on the receiver become unreliable. This is only possible if you know the transmitter pitch and the positions of the front locate point (FLP) and the rear locate point (RLP) and if the ground surface is level. To estimate the transmitter depth, first measure the distance between the FLP and the RLP.
Appendix C Notes 94 DigiTrak® F5™ Operator’s Manual
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED Appendix D: Reference Tables Depth Increase in Inches (Centimeters) per 10-foot (3-meter) Rod Percent Depth Increase Percent Depth Increase 1 1 (2) 28 32 (81) 2 2 (5) 29 33 (84) 3 4 (10) 30 34 (86) 4 5 (13) 31 36 (91) 5 6 (15) 32 37 (94) 6 7 (18) 33 38 (97) 7 8 (20) 34 39 (99) 8 10 (25) 35 40 (102) 9 11 (28) 36 41 (104) 10 12 (30) 37 42 (107) 11 13 (33) 38 43 (109) 12 14 (36) 39 44 (112) 13 15 (38) 40 45 (114) 14 17 (43)
Appendix D Depth Increase in Inches (Centimeters) per 15-foot (4.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED 19625 62nd Ave. S., Suite B-103 Kent, WA 98032 USA (425) 251-0559 or (800) 288-3610 Fax (253) 395-2800 www.digitrak.com DCI@digital-control.com (E-mail) LIMITED WARRANTY Digital Control Incorporated ("DCI") warrants that when shipped from DCI each DCI Product will conform to DCI’s current published specifications in existence at the time of shipment and will be free, for the warranty period (“Warranty Period”) described below, from defects in materials and workmanship.
DCI reserves the right to make changes in design and improvements upon DCI Products from time to time, and User understands that DCI shall have no obligation to upgrade any previously manufactured DCI Product to include any such changes.