Guide to Using the Armada Pro700 Wire and Valve Locator
Step 1: Check that all items are included in the Pro700 kit, as listed in the product description.
Step 2: Understand the theory of locating with a cable locator, as described in the product description. It is essential to understand that the signal follows the path of least resistance, and a complete circuit path must be present for the signal to be detected.
Step 3: Install the batteries in the Pro700 transmitter and receiver. The transmitter requires eight "D" cell batteries, and the receiver requires one 9V battery. Use the red battery test button to verify that the batteries are correctly installed.
Step 4: Connect the red alligator lead to the wire you want to trace and the black alligator lead to the ground stake. Insert the ground stake into the soil or earth ground perpendicular to the path of the wire and as far from the transmitter as possible. Be sure to use a good ground for optimum operation.
Step 5: Turn on the Pro700 transmitter and adjust the power output knob until a reading between 4 and 8 is achieved. Do not overpower the unit by turning it up past 10 on the meter.
Step 6: Turn on the Pro700 receiver by turning the volume knob on the front of the receiver. Place the receiver near the operating Pro700 transmitter and listen for the beeping signal. The volume control on the front of the receiver regulates the loudness of the receiver, both headphones and external speaker. Additionally, the analog meter on the front of the receiver will indicate the reception power level visually.
Step 7: Point the receiver toward the ground and listen for the beeping signal. The closer you are to the cable, the louder the signal should be, except for directly over the cable. Directly over the cable, the Pro700 works on the NULL principle, and the signal nulls or stops when the receiver is directly over the cable.
Step 8: To find breaks or severe wire damage, follow the same setup as when tracing wire. The difference comes in the reception. Whereas the traced wire continues to emit a signal along the path of the cable, a break will cause the signal to stop at the point of break. A nick or damage will cause the signal to drop to a lower level but not necessarily end. The faulted area will also produce a "hot spot" of signal right at the cut as the signal is lost to ground.
Step 9: To find solenoids and valves, connect the red lead of the transmitter to the station wire leading to that valve and the black to ground as described above. Connect the Pro700 as above and begin your locate. When you reach the point where a valve/solenoid is located, the signal will expand into a large (approx 2-4ft) diameter area of signal. This is your indication that you are over a valve or solenoid. The signal should not continue past this point.
Step 10: Helpful hints for better performance include ensuring a good ground stake, using conductive soil, and practicing and gaining experience with the unit.
Note: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for using the Armada Pro700 and take necessary safety precautions when working with wires and cables.
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