The transmitter clamp fits around a pipe or cable and safely applies a signal to a live insulated cable without interrupting or disconnecting the supply. The clamp applies a very discriminating signal to a target line with reduced coupling to other lines. A clamp can sometimes be a more effective method of applying the signal than Direct Connection.
The target line will carry the strongest signal. The other lines will carry the weaker return signal. If the system comprises only two conductors, they may carry equal signals.
WARNING! Do not clamp around uninsulated live conductors
WARNING! Before applying or removing the clamp around a power cable, ensure that the clamp is connected to the transmitter at all times.
The clamp may buzz or vibrate if it is placed around a power cable that has significant net current flow. This is normal and does not harm the equipment.
Connecting the clamp
Transmitter output socket
Connecting transmitter clamps
- Plug the clamp into the transmitter output socket.
- Put the clamp around the pipe or cable and ensure that the jaws are closed. Switch the transmitter on.
The display will show the Clamp connected icon
Clamp connected icon
The line should be grounded (earthed) on each side of the clamp for the signal to transfer to the line. Ground the line if necessary. An insulated cable may be traced even if it has no actual ground connection, providing a reasonable length is buried either side of the clamp to provide capacitive coupling to ground (earth).
NOTE: It is not necessary to make a ground connection from the transmitter when using the clamp.
Transmitter clamp range
Although transmitter and locator clamps look the same, they have different internal windings. To prevent the wrong clamp being connected, transmitters and locator clamps have plugs of a different orientation.
Standard signal clamps
The standard clamps apply the transmitter signal very selectively and effectively to a target cable up to 130mm (5¼”) in diameter using frequencies from 8kHz to 200kHz.
The standard and small clamps have a double spring action for positive toroidal contact.
Small signal clamp
The small signal clamp is useful for applying signals from 8kHz to 200kHz to a target cable in a pedestal or other place with limited space. The clamp is suitable for cables up to 50mm diameter.
Current Direction (CD) clamp
Transmitter CD clamp
The CD clamp plugged into the accessory socket of the transmitter enables CD signals to be applied to individual cables.
WARNING! The transmitter must only be connected to live services using the appropriate accessory such as a plug connector or live cable connector.<></>