How it Works
The measuring tool checks the substrate of the sensor area (8) up to the maximum detection depth.
Metal objects and live cables are automatically searched for during each measurement.
Always move the measuring tool in a straight line in a lateral direction over the substrate, applying light pressure, without lifting it off or changing the pressure. Hold the measuring tool by the gripping surface (1) with an even grip and do not touch the sensor area (8) while taking measurements.
For the best possible results, make sure that the measuring tool maintains contact with the surface throughout the measuring process.
Overview of indications:
(5) |
(4) |
(3) | Audio signal | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Green | – | – | – | No object is within the sensor range |
Yellow | ● | – | – |
|
Illuminated red | ● | – | ● | Metal object is within the sensor range |
Illuminated red | – | ● | ● | Live cable is within the sensor range |
Objects are only displayed roughly the first time you move over them. Move the measuring tool several times over the same surface in order to locate the object precisely.
The detection depth of the measurement depends on material and size of the objects, as well as material and condition of the substrate and may be less than the maximum detection depth.
Searching for Metal Objects
Preparing to take measurements and features of the measuring process:
- Remove any metal objects, such as rings, watches and other jewellery from the vicinity of the measuring tool to prevent interference with the measurement results.
- The proximity of metal objects such as door frames and radiators can impede the search for other metal objects beneath the surface. This also applies to aluminium foil covering heating pipes or insulation, which is recognised as metal and indicated over large areas.
When approaching a metal object, the light-up ring (5) first lights up yellow and then changes to red. The metal object indicator (4) will light up and an acoustic signal is emitted.
- Even when the light-up ring is yellow, there may be a metal object beneath the sensor area. Small or deep-lying metal objects are near the sensor, or the nature of the wall affects the measuring result.
Searching for Live Cables
The measuring tool displays single-phase live cables (110−240 V, 50−60 Hz). Other cables (multi-phase electricity cables, DC, higher/lower frequency or voltage) as well as non-live cables cannot be reliably detected, but they may be displayed as metal objects.
Preparing to take measurements and features of the measuring process:
- The cable must be live. You should therefore connect electricity consumers (e.g. lights, appliances) to the electricity cable you are trying to find. Switch on the electricity consumers to ensure that the electricity cable is live.
- The 50–60 Hz signal from the electricity cable must be able to reach the measuring tool. If the cable is in damp walls (e.g. due to high humidity), behind metallic foils (e.g. from thermal insulation) or in an empty metal pipe, the signal will not reach the measuring tool and you will not be able to find the cable.
If the light-up ring (5) lights up yellow or red over a larger area, then the material is electrically shielded and the search for live cables is not reliable.
- The measuring tool must be sufficiently earthed. To do this, hold it firmly (without gloves) by the gripping surface (1). Make sure that you are in good contact with the floor. Insulating shoes, ladders or platforms may compromise your contact with the floor. The floor must also be earthed in order for live cables to be detected.
- The 50–60 Hz signal from the electricity cable must be stronger along the cable than in its immediate vicinity. If the wall is very dry or poorly earthed, the signal will be the same strength throughout the wall. This will result in the measuring tool indicating that it has found a signal over a large area, but it will not be able to detect the exact location of the cable.
In this instance, it may be helpful to place your free hand on the wall 20−30 cm from the measuring tool in order to conduct the signal away from the wall. However, you should not change the position of your free hand during the measuring process.
If a live cable is found, the light-up ring (5) lights up red, the live cable indicator (3) lights up white and an audio signal is emitted.
- Switch off power consumers and make sure that live cables are de-energised before drilling, sawing or milling into walls, ceilings or floors. After performing any kind of work, check to ensure that objects placed on the substrate are not live.