Pipe and Cable Locators
Pipe and Cable Locators
vLoc3 RTK-Pro
The vLoc3 RTK-Pro by Vivax-Metrotech is an advanced utility locator that integrates Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) GNSS technology, delivering centimeter-level accuracy for precise utility mapping. Equipped with a 4G LTE module, it connects seamlessly to NTRIP RTK casters, providing real-time corrections for accurate geospatial data collection. The device features user-friendly locate modes and an electronic spirit level, streamlining the process of confirming utility data and storing it in the cloud for easy access and export to mapping programs. This integration of utility locating and high-precision GNSS capabilities reduces the need for multiple field devices, enhancing efficiency in utility management tasks.
vLoc3-Pro
The vLoc3-Pro by Vivax-Metrotech is an advanced utility locator equipped with dual sets of 3D triaxial antennas, enabling precise detection of buried utilities and identification of signal distortions. Its high-visibility 4.3-inch color LCD displays multiple locate perspectives, including Vector Locate for off-set locating and Plan View for cable orientation visualization. The device offers a wide frequency range from 98 Hz to 200 kHz and includes eight passive locate modes, fault-find mode, and Signal Direction (SD) capabilities. User-configurable audio and vibration alerts enhance situational awareness, making the vLoc3-Pro a versatile tool for accurate utility locating and damage prevention.
vLoc3-ML
The vLoc3-ML by Vivax-Metrotech is a dual-purpose locator that combines advanced utility line detection with electronic marker system (EMS) capabilities, enabling precise pinpointing of buried passive electronic markers. Equipped with two sets of screened 3D antennas, it effectively detects signal distortion and displays information on a bright, full-color LCD. The device offers multiple locate modes—including Vector Locate, Transverse Graph, and Plan View—and features such as Signal Direction, Guidance Compass, and Distortion Alerts to enhance locating accuracy. Optional Bluetooth connectivity and data logging capabilities further support integration with external GPS devices and comprehensive data analysis.
vLoc3-5000
The vLoc3-5000 by Vivax-Metrotech is an advanced utility locator that integrates digital signal processing with a broad frequency range from 98 Hz to 200 kHz, enhancing the accuracy of detecting buried utilities. It features Signal Select™ (SiS) frequencies—491 Hz, 982 Hz, 8.44 kHz, 9.82 kHz, and 35 kHz—which provide real-time measurement of signal bleed-over caused by capacitive or inductive coupling to other utilities, aiding in positive line identification in congested areas. Equipped with internal GPS and Bluetooth, the device allows seamless data collection and real-time mapping via the VM-MAP smartphone application, facilitating efficient integration with GIS systems and Google Maps. Multiple locate modes—including Vector Locate, Transverse Graph, and Plan View—and user-configurable alerts further enhance its versatility and precision for utility locating and mapping tasks.
vLoc3-XLF
The vLoc3-XLF by Vivax-Metrotech is engineered for precise long-distance utility locating using extra-low frequencies (XLF) that minimize coupling onto adjacent lines and reduce distortion. It features dual sets of 3D antennas that detect and visually display signal distortion on a high-visibility color screen, enhancing accuracy in complex environments. The device offers multiple locate perspectives, including Vector Locate for non-walk-over locating and Plan View for cable orientation visualization. User-configurable alerts and optional Bluetooth connectivity further enhance its adaptability for various applications, such as locating long-haul fiber lines and pipeline transmission networks.
VM-810 and VM-850
Vivax-Metrotech offers two specialized utility locators to address diverse locating needs. The VM-810 operates at 83.1 kHz, making it ideal for detecting larger water and gas pipes with bell housings and gaskets, as well as ungrounded small diameter drop wires. In contrast, the VM-850 functions at a lower frequency of 9.82 kHz, providing precise location of smaller diameter utilities like CATV, power, and telephone lines, with reduced signal bleed onto adjacent services. Both models feature Distance Sensitive Left/Right Guidance™, real-time automatic gain, depth and current readout, and a lightweight, rugged design.
VM-550 and VM-560
The Vivax-Metrotech VM-550 and VM-560 are general-purpose utility locators designed for detecting buried pipes and cables in various scenarios. Both models offer passive power locating at 50/60Hz and feature three active frequencies, with the VM-550 providing 512/640Hz, 8.19kHz, and 83.1kHz, while the VM-560 offers 512/640Hz, 8.19kHz, and 480kHz. Each transmitter includes an additional 8kHz Fault-Find frequency for identifying ground-to-sheath faults when used with the VM-510 Stand Alone A-Frame fault locator. Key features of both models encompass a lightweight, rugged design, visual and audio responses, passive and active locate modes, and push-button depth readings.
VM-585
The VM-585 by Vivax-Metrotech combines utility locating and ferrous metal detection capabilities, making it ideal for tracing short-distance service drops and detecting buried ferrous objects like valve boxes and manhole covers. It operates with passive power locating at 50/60Hz and offers active frequencies of 512Hz, 8.19kHz, and 83.1kHz, providing versatility in various locating tasks. The device features audio and visual signal strength indicators, push-button depth estimation, and advanced filtering to reject non-ferrous materials such as aluminum cans and bottle caps. Its ergonomic design, lightweight construction, and durable materials ensure ease of use and longevity in the field.
vLoc3-Cam
Equipped with multiple sonde frequencies, the vLoc3-Cam is compatible with major push cameras and crawler systems, facilitating seamless integration into existing workflows. The Pushrod Trace mode enables users to trace the path of a pushrod deployed in a pipe or to locate pipes using an optional portable transmitter. Additionally, passive locate modes detect the presence of live power lines, CATV, telephone lines, and certain metallic pipes emitting 50/60 Hz signals.
Plastic Pipe Locator
Combiphon System
The Combiphon system is designed for acoustic location of non-metallic pipes, such as plastic or fiber cement, which cannot be detected using conventional electromagnetic methods. By inducing mechanical vibrations into the pipe, the system allows these vibrations to propagate to the surface, where they can be detected using a ground microphone. This method enables accurate tracing of the pipeline's path.
PinPointR
The ImpulseRadar PinPointR is a compact and robust Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) system designed specifically for utility detection. Utilizing real-time sampling (RTS) technology, it features dual-frequency antennas operating at 400 MHz and 800 MHz, allowing simultaneous detection of both shallow and deep utilities. Controlled via an intuitive Android-driven user interface, the system offers wireless data acquisition and includes an internal GPS, with support for external GPS devices to enhance geo-referencing accuracy. Its lightweight, foldable design and 7-hour battery life ensure ease of transport and extended field operation, making it an efficient tool for locating, avoiding, or mapping underground utilities.
Fault Finder
VM-510FFL+
The VM-510FFL+ is a standalone A-frame fault locator designed to accurately detect and pinpoint sheath or ground faults in underground cables and pipes. It allows users to simultaneously locate the cable path and identify faults using simple four-button controls. The device features a high-contrast LCD with automatic backlighting, providing clear visual indicators, while its weatherproof speaker offers audible guidance. Weighing only 4.2 lbs (1.89 kg), the VM-510FFL+ combines lightweight carbon fiber construction with robust performance, making it suitable for extensive field use.
Defect Mapper
vLoc3-DM
The vLoc3-DM by Vivax-Metrotech is a specialized pipeline defect mapper designed to locate and assess coating defects on buried pipelines. Equipped with dual sets of 3D antennas, it effectively detects signal distortions, displaying them on a 4.3-inch color LCD for precise analysis. The device offers real-time on-screen mapping and data review, including a walk-back feature that guides operators to points of interest for further evaluation. Integrated Bluetooth and GPS capabilities enhance data logging and geolocation accuracy, making the vLoc3-DM an essential tool for pipeline integrity assessments.
Metal Detector
VM-585
The VM-585 by Vivax-Metrotech combines utility locating and ferrous metal detection capabilities, making it ideal for tracing short-distance service drops and detecting buried ferrous objects like valve boxes and manhole covers. It operates with passive power locating at 50/60Hz and offers active frequencies of 512Hz, 8.19kHz, and 83.1kHz, providing versatility in various locating tasks. The device features audio and visual signal strength indicators, push-button depth estimation, and advanced filtering to reject non-ferrous materials such as aluminum cans and bottle caps. Its ergonomic design, lightweight construction, and durable materials ensure ease of use and longevity in the field.
VM-880
The VM-880 is a lightweight, high-sensitivity ferrous metal detector designed to locate buried iron and steel objects, such as valve and manhole covers, even when paved over or hidden beneath soil. It exclusively detects ferrous materials, effectively rejecting non-ferrous items like aluminum cans and bottle caps, thereby reducing false positives. The device offers both audio and visual signal strength indicators, a field polarity indicator, and one-touch auto sensitivity control for efficient operation. Constructed with a submersible carbon fiber antenna tube and weighing only 1.54 lbs (0.7 kg), the VM-880 ensures durability and ease of use during prolonged field operations.