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The vLoc3-Pro from Vivax-Metrotech is the new industry benchmark for utility locating. The vLoc3-Pro's Triaxial 3D architecture provides "must-have" features and offers powerful best-in-class performance and reliability. Its bold stance, curved silhouette, robust construction, super-fast processor engine, market-leading software innovation, and its class-leading 4.3" color LCD, high visibility display provide a locating refinement that is new to this industry. Its class-exclusive technologies are optimized to deliver an immense level of performance, allowing technicians to be in complete command of challenging utility locates.
The vLoc3 patented integrated self-test feature provides users with in-the-field calibration verification. A unique signal injection confirms the six antenna's operation using a low, medium, and high frequency, and other aspects test the circuitry and LCD. Self-test measurements are compared to the initial factory calibration, and results are stored on internal memory with date and time stamps and can be accessed using MyLocator3 software.
Need to locate marker balls? Every vLoc3 locator can find EM markers using an optional Marker Locate Adapter (MLA).
The color of the bargraph will indicate signal distortion.
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There are hidden images / Tidy mode active.
- Videos
- Features
- Locate Modes
- Calibration Verification
- Alerts
- Receiver
- Transmitters
- TX Link
- EMS Markers
- Acceessories
- VMMap App
- MyLocator 3 App
- Specifications
- Training
- RTK GNSS
Videos
- Classic
- Vector
- Plan View
- Transverse Graph
- Directional Sonde
- EMS Marker
- Fault-Find
- Remote Antenna
- Bluetooth
Classic Locate Mode
The classic mode is the most versatile of the locate modes. Shown here is the most popular mode, i.e., Peak with Arrow mode.
All screens in Classic modes include bar-graph & numeric indication and guidance arrows (left/right arrows) when null is being used along with automatic depth & signal current and Compass (line orientation).
Distortion is always indicated by bar-graph color.
Green - good locate signal
Blue - some distortion detected
Red - very high distortion
Classic Locate Mode offers multiple antenna options, e.g., Peak, Null, Broad Peak, Delta-Null, Peak with Arrows and Omni Peak.
The color of the bargraph will indicate signal distortion.
Two horizontal antennas provide a "Peak" or maximum signal response over the center of the buried pipe or cable. The peak response is indicated in bar graph and also numerically.
This is an accurate method of locating as both horizontal antennas are used to provide a clear "Peak" indication.
Peak is less likely to be affected by signal distortion.
One vertical antenna provide a "Null" or minimum signal response over the center of the buried pipe or cable. The null response is indicated in bar graph and numerically.
The Null mode is best used in uncongested areas due to it being most affected by distortion.
However this also makes it useful for detecting distortion. Null also provides left/right arrows to be displayed.
Null is likely to be affected by signal distortion, therefore it should not be trusted in congested areas.
One horizontal antenna provide a "Broad Peak" or maximum signal response over the center of the buried pipe or cable. The peak response is indicated in bar graph and numerically.
This method provides a less defined peak than normal peak which uses twin-horizontal antennas. But it can be very useful when locating a very deep target with lower than normal signal current.
Peak is less likely to be affected by signal distortion.
Two vertical antenna provide a "Delta-Null" or minimum signal response over the center of the buried pipe or cable. The null response is indicated in bar graph and also numerically.
The Delta-Null mode provides sharper null responses than the normal null mode where only one antenna is being used. Delta-Null is best used in uncongested areas due to it being affected by distortion.
Delta-Null also provides left/right arrows to be displayed, making it a fast locate method.
Delta-Null is still likely to be affected by signal distortion, therefore it should not be trusted in congested areas.
Two horizontal and null antennas provide a "Peak with Arrow" or maximum signal response and left/right arrow center over the center of the buried pipe or cable. The peak with arrow response is indicated in bar graph and numerically and with left/right arrows.
This is an accurate method of locating as both horizontal antennas are used to provide a clear "Peak" indication and with Arrows it is considered the most popular mode for accuracy and speed.
Peak is less likely to be affected by signal distortion. Arrows are subject to disagreeing with peak when distortion is present.
In the event Peak and Arrows disagree, always trust the peak.
Two 3D Triaxial antennas provide a "Omni Peak" or maximum signal response over the center of the buried pipe or cable from any direction. The peak response is indicated in bar graph and also numerically.
Unlike any other mode, Peak indication is detectable regardless of locator blade orientation. Walk over utility line from any angle and utility will be detected.
Omni Peak should be the first mode used on every locate before proceeding with line marking.
Omni Peak is not affected by signal distortion.
Vector Mode
Vector mode locks onto the utility itself and displays orientation of the locator in relation to the utility. This mode provides lateral offset locating. An ideal mode for joint trench scenarios.
Features:
- Automatic gain control
- Continuous depth & signal current
- Lateral offset locating
- Distortion indication - Color change & size change
Plan View Mode
Plan View mode allows for the utility to be located by following the actual path displayed on screen. This mode is the simplest mode for locating any utility.
Features:
- Simple to use - perfect for inexperienced technicians
- Displays relative orientation of the utility at any angle
- Automatic gain control
- Continuous depth & signal current
- Distortion indication via two adjacent lines (spacing) and color change
Transverse Graph Mode
Transverse Graph Mode provides a perfect screen for troubleshooting a difficult locate.
Features:
- Plots real time peak & null responses simultaneously
- Provides immediate measurement of signal distortion when two responses do not align
- Real-time visual antenna comparison
- Perfect for training
Directional Sonde Mode
Sonde Mode on the vLoc3 allows technicians to approach the sonde from any direction. An arrow will guide users to the sonde and allow easy pinpointing.
Features:
- Guidance arrow targets sonde axis
- Red/Green color indicates sonde position
- "Ghost" or leading and aft peaks are indicated by simple blue icon
- Sondes can be located from any direction
- This mode revolutionizes sonde locating
EMS Marker Mode
Using the MLA accessory allows for both "Dual" simultaneous line and EMS marker locating, or it can be used for dedicated EMS marker locating.
Fault-Find (Accessory A-Frame)
Fault-Find on the vLoc3 allows technicians to fault locate using an accessory A-Frame.
Features:
- Guidance arrows for cable locating
- Center arrow indicates direction of fault
- Numerical strength (db) indicates fault
Remote Antenna (Accessory)
Using the Remote Antenna accessory allows technicians to pinpoint and isolate (identify) the target cable amongst a bank of cables.
Features:
- Bar graph indicates signal strength
- Center arrow indicates signal current direction
- Numerical signal strength indicates target ID
Blutooth
Technicians can pair with other devices for utility mapping.
Features:
- Use with external GPS receivers
- Use with Smartphone Apps (VMMAP)
Calibration Verification / Self Test
No more "Cal" timer or cost associated with reseting a timer. This built-in Calibration Verification Self-Test is both complex and comprehensive and new to the industry. This feature virtually obsoletes the need to return or purchase a plug-in-to-paper validation certificate.
Features:
- High integrity self test that assures the sensors are operating within factory tolerances.
- Result measurements are compared to initial factory calibration tolerances.
- Passing the self-test assures that the locator is within factory calibrated performance criteria.
- Self-test results are logged to an internal SD card.
Why is this important?
Typically Factory Calibration Certificates are good the day they were conducted or date of certificate and most standards require an annual certification. However, the locator could have been impacted during shipment within the first week of calibration, or maybe fell off of a truck tailgate, or maybe dropped during a slippery locate, etc. and now it might not pass calibration, but re-certification maybe 11 months away. Having the ability to "Calibration Verification/Self Test" from the menu before every big job guarantees that your vLoc3-Pro is within factory calibration before you start the job giving you and your customer every assurance that your locator will be accurate and within factory calibration.
Warning / Alerts
Warnings and Alerts provide users with instant feedback when something is wrong. These events will cause the handle to vibrate as well as display a visual notification indicating type of alert. All events are logged onto an internal SD card for future reference.
Warnings and Alerts provide users with instant feedback when something is wrong. These events will cause the handle to vibrate as well as display a visual notification indicating type of alert. All events are logged onto an internal SD card for future reference.
Shallow Depth Warning
This warning occurs when the utility detected is less than (6) six inches deep. This can prevent damage from occurring to the utility and provide user safety.
Overhead Cable Warning
This warning indicates that signal is being detected from above. This alert can prevent inaccurate utility marking.
Swing Alert
This alert activates when the locator is being used improperly. This alert allows users to learn how to swing the locator properly.
Overload Alert
The alert indicates excessive amounts of electromagnetic signal detected. E.g., near power transformers, etc. This alert can prevent inaccurate utility marking.
5 - Watt (Loc3 Series)
The Loc3-5Tx broadband transmitter offers all frequencies between 98Hz to 200kHz, SD mode (Signal Direction), (8KFF) fault-find and an accurate resistance measurement up to 1M Ohm. The ruggedized and lightweight ergonomic design provides direct connection, signal clamp or induction mode and is protected against incoming voltages up to 240V. The LCD display with LED backlight displays output current, connection type, volts, resistance, frequency, volume, battery condition and high voltage warning.
If equipped with optional TX LINK, the transmitter can be remotely controlled by the vLoc3 series receiver. The range is typically 985 ft. (300m).
| Output Current | 0.3 Amp (RMS constant current) |
| Max. Output Voltage | 50V RMS |
| Power Output | 5-Watt (< 45kHz) 1-Watt (> 45kHz) |
| Output Channel | One (1) output |
| Voltage Protection | Up to 240 VAC (external fuse) |
| Batteries | (8) Alkaline D-cell or (Optional Li-Ion rechargeable) |
| Induction | 8kHz to 200kHz (user selectable) |
| Inductive Clamp | 8kHz to 200kHz (user selectable) |
| Direct Connection | 98kHz to 200kHz (user selectable) |
| Multi-Frequency Mode | (3) Three frequencies (any combination) |
| Resistance Measurement (FFL) | 0 - 1M Ohms |
| Included: | Loc3-5Tx transmitter, Conductive attachment leads (12') & ground stake |
10 - Watt (Loc3 Series)
The Loc3-10Tx broadband high power transmitter is the industry benchmark for 10 watt transmitters. The Loc3-10Tx offers high output current (up to 1,000mA RMS constant), making it perfect for long distance and deep pipe & cable locating. This transmitter offers all frequencies between 98Hz to 200kHz, SD mode (Signal Direction), (8KFF) fault-find and an accurate resistance measurement up to 1M Ohm. The ruggedized and lightweight ergonomic design provides direct connection, signal clamp or induction mode and is protected against incoming voltages up to 240V. The LCD display with LED backlight displays output current, connection type, volts, resistance, frequency, volume, battery condition and high voltage warning.
If equipped with optional TX LINK, the transmitter can be remotely controlled by the vLoc3 series receiver. The range is typically 985 ft. (300m).
| Output Current | 1.0 Amp (RMS constant current) |
| Max. Output Voltage | 50V RMS |
| Power Output | 10-Watt (< 45kHz) 1-Watt (> 45kHz) |
| Output Channel | One (1) output |
| Voltage Protection | Up to 240 VAC (external fuse) |
| Batteries | (12) Alkaline D-cell or (Optional Li-Ion rechargeable) |
| Induction | 8kHz to 200kHz (user selectable) |
| Inductive Clamp | 8kHz to 200kHz (user selectable) |
| Direct Connection | 98kHz to 200kHz (user selectable) |
| Multi-Frequency Mode | (3) Three frequencies (any combination) |
| Resistance Measurement (FFL) | 0 - 1M Ohms |
| Included: | Loc3-10Tx transmitter, Conductive attachment leads (12') & ground stake |
25 - Watt (Loc3 Series)
The powerful Loc3-25Tx transmitter is the go-to transmitter for problematic deep pipe & long distance pipe & cable locating. Also its perfect for finding holidays on coated pipelines. The smaller Loc3-25Tx is perfect for gas distribution applications.
In addition to the above applications the Loc3-25Tx features high current-single frequencies making this transmitter the best solution for extreme deep pipe applications.
The Loc3-25Tx is built on a rugged, ergonomic IP54 housing and is lightweight (only 7.05lbs). This transmitter provides consistent current output up to 4.0 Amps peak.
If equipped with optional TX LINK, the transmitter can be remotely controlled by the vLoc3 series receiver. The range is typically 985 ft. (300m).
Key Features of the Loc3-25Tx Transmitter
- 4.0 Amp peak current output
- 130 Volts peak output
- Light and portable for everyday use
- ELF and Low frequencies for minimum distortion
- Includes all PCM & PDCM frequencies
- Single frequencies for deep pipe locates
- Signal clamp compatibility
- Li-Ion rechargeable battery
- Heavy duty AC charger can be used to power the transmitter while simultaneously charging battery.
| Output Current | A maximum current output of 4.0 Amp RMS (up to 25 watts) |
| Output Voltage | 130V RMS |
| Voltage Protection | Up to 230 VAC (external fuse) |
| Batteries | Li-Ion rechargeable battery (25-watt/2-hours) / (10-watt/6-hours) |
| Frequencies | 20Hx to 9.82kHz (including all PCM & PDCM frequencies) |
| Included: | Loc3-25Tx transmitter, Conductive attachment leads (10'), Ground stake, Li-Ion battery tray, DC/AC Power supply for battery, Carry bag & Vehicle DC power supply |
150 - Watt
The Loc-150Tx Transmitter is a high-powered unit which makes long range signal detection possible up to 20 miles (32km). The flexible power requirements enable it to utilize the variety of supplies available at most transformer rectifier stations. This allows the transmitter to provide its full 150W of output power over prolonged periods, without costly battery replacements. Hookup is a simple four wire connection procedure. The transmitter is compatible with both distribution and transmission networks.
| Output Current | A maximum current output of 4.0 Amp RMS (up to 150 watts) |
| Output Voltage | 120V RMS |
| Voltage Protection | Up to 250 VAC (external fuse) |
| Batteries | None (use 120VAC mains or 12-50VDC from rectifier) |
| Frequencies | 512Hz and 8.19kHz |
| Included: | Loc-150Tx transmitter, Conductive attachment leads (10'), DC input lead (10') & Output mains plug (9') |
The TX LINK is an optional feature and requires the transmitter radio link to be installed on both the Loc3 transmitter and vLoc3 receiver. TX LINK allows the transmitter to be remotely operated from the receiver. When linked, changing the frequency on the receiver will automatically change the frequency on the transmitter. The range of the radio link depends on having a clear "Line of sight" between the Receiver and Transmitter and is typically 984 ft (300m).
Using TX LINK with the vLoc3 series Rx is as easy as pressing the frequency key ("f") to change the frequency. For additional operations simply enter the "Transmitter Control" screen from the normal menu mode. This screen will display a visual of the transmitter display itself and allow user to increase or decrease power output (+ or -).
The Transmitter Control screen will display the following:
Radio link signal strength (40% as indicated).
Output mode icon (direct connection)
Output signal frequency (640Hz)
Output current (100mA)
Volume setting (level 2)
Transmitter battery level (Full)
Pressing the ("I") button will return to normal locating screen.
NOTE:
If TX LINK is not necessary, simply "Disabled" on both the transmitter and receiver to conserve battery.
There are hidden images / Tidy mode active.
The MLA is an optional "plug-n-play" accessory that enables every vLoc3-series locator to also become a full-featured EMS marker ball locator.
- Carry Bags/Case
- Inductive Clamps
- A-Frames
- MLA
- Remote Antenna
- Live Power Filter
- TX Rechargeable batteries
- Lead Sets
- Sondes
- Bluetooth
- Signal Direction SD
The 2" clamp is used for smaller cable applications, e.g., CATV and some fiber optic cables.
The 4" clamp is still a favorite of some users who predominately locate telephone cables and some smaller power cables.
The 5" clamp is the industry standard. It allows signal application on 4" and larger conduit. This is the most popular clamp selection for users needing to locate underground services.
Flex clamp is primarily used for aerial cables transitioning to underground under protected U-Guard, making it nearly impossible for seller clamps to be used.
Telescopic clamp pole is a 6' pole that can extend to 12'.
An A-Frame accessory provides a plug-n-play when used with any vLoc3-series receiver. When plugged in, the vLoc3-series locator display will become a fault-finder.
The VM-510FFL+ stand-alone A-Frame does not require using the vLoc3-series receiver at all. The VM-510FFL+ has its own display.
The Marker Locate Adapter (MLA) accessory is designed to plug-in-play and convert any vLoc3 series line locator into a EM marker locator. EM markers are commonly used to mark or indicate important underground or buried features of cable routes or pipelines, e.g., buried valves, buried splice cases, tees, end of lines, shut-off valves, or plastic features marked for future pipe detection. EM markers are color coded.
The Remote Antenna (USB) accessory is designed to locate the individual cable among the many bundles that can be present in some communication applications and for “Hot” cable identification for locating unmarked secondaries in power transformers, eliminating the need to shut down working power conductors when doing secondary fault locating or maintenance.
LPC Separation Filter provide an easy and safe method of applying transmitter signals to “Live” power lines via AC plug.
LCC Separation Filter provide an easy and safe method of applying transmitter signals to “Live” power lines via direct connection clips.
Using the Loc3 series Li-Ion Rechargeable battery pack saves many and helps keep the environment green. These battery packs can be recharged up to 500 times and lasts the equivalent of 2x regular alkaline battery change-outs. Charger sold separately.
120VAC wall charger for Li-Ion battery pack.
25' 12VDC power lead (not a charger - provides alternative power to transmitter)
12VDC vehicle charger for vLoc3-series receiver.
Bluetooth Module
(2.204.01.00044)
VMMAP for Smartphones and tablets
Garmin GLO™ GPS (3.01.19.000183)
The Garmin GLO™ can receive position information from both GPS/GLONASS satellite constellations, allowing up to 24 more satellites to be connected. This makes the Garmin GLO™ at least 20% faster and it updates 10x per second, i.e., 10x more often than other GPS receivers. The 12-hour battery reduces the need to charge more often and using the customer vLoc3 holder the Garmin GLO™ is perfect for locating.
Kit - Garmin GLO™ & Holder - vLoc3 (2.219.01.00073)
Holder - vLoc3 series (2.219.01.00071)
Eos Locate™ for Collector for ArcGIS
Signal Direction Mode (SD) is an optional frequency that can be added to any vLoc3-Pro receiver. SD mode when selected will provide users with an arrow on the classic locate screen indicating the direction of the signal current on the utility. Signal current should always flow away from the transmitter. At any time the arrow reverses (point toward the TX), then it may indicate that the user is no longer locating the correct utility. SD mode is very helpful when locating easements with multiple pipelines buried in close proximity. SD will allow for the user to always locate and mark the correct pipe or cable.
VM-MAP App
The VMMAP mobile mapping app from Vivax-Metrotech provides an affordable real-time mapping solution for GPS mapping of buried utilities.
This solution will generate maps in real time giving the user a visual indication on the smartphone and confidence that the data is accurate. GPS is provided by the smartphone or via an external GPS receiver providing seamlessly whatever level of accuracy you need for the map. The app provides additional data to be entered such as notes or job site pictures.
The VMMAP application is compatible with both iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded for FREE on the Apple Store or GooglePlay.
- Instant mapping of buried and above ground utilities
- Quickly create and email files; CSV, KLM, TXT or XLS formats
- Easy integration into GIS software
- Detailed history points to display and visualize the work being done
- Detailed information on location points (current, mode, frequency, depth and GPS coordinates)
MyLocator3 App
The MyLocator3 desktop app from Vivax-Metrotech provides users with an easy application to configure any vLoc3 series locator. Its perfect for managing a fleet of vLoc3's where certain frequencies are preferred, certain modes or where a custom start-up screen is used.
When the locator is connected to a PC running MyLocator3 the program will automatically search the VM database for the latest software for both the vLoc3 series locator and the desktop (MyLocator3) software.
- Data transfer - MyLocator3 App will download data collected from the locator e.g., timestamp, GPS coordinates, depth measurements, current measurement and any notes at the time of locate.
- Software updates - MyLocator3 automatically checks for vLoc3 locator software updates and app software updates anytime it is started.
- Self-test and calibration verification - MyLocator3 can perform a test on the locator's components assuring that the vLoc3 series locator's calibration is valid and is in 100% working order. The test will inform the user if a calibration is needed. If the locator passes the self-test a calibration certificate will be printed.
- Customize start-up screen - Add user ownership information, I.e., background logo or picture or message to the start-up screen.
- Lock Feature - The locator's configurations and settings can be locked, such as for fleet applications, enabling equipment compliance. This feature will ensure to management that users cannot over-ride settings as any changes would require plugging in a lockout dongle.
| Construction | High impact thermoplastic (ABS) injection molded housing |
| Weight / Dimensions | 4.6lbs. / 12.6"(L) x 4.9"(W) x 26.6"(H) |
| Display | Transmissive 480 x 272 Pixel, 16-bit Color, High Visibility, LCD, 4.3" |
| Antenna(s) | 2-sets of 3D Triaxial antennas |
| Battery Life @ +70°F | 12-Hrs (Alkaline-6AA) / 27-Hrs (Custom Li-Ion Rechargeable) |
| Internal Data Logging | All parameter stored onboard. 50 Million records storage capacity |
| Operating Frequencies | Configurable frequencies range from 16Hz to 200kHz |
| Locate Modes | Classic Locate Mode / Plan View Mode / Vector Mode / Transverse Graph Mode / Sonde Mode |
| Temperature Range (optimum) | -4°F to +122°F |
| Weather Proof | IP65 and NEMA 4 |
| Warranty - Standard | 2-Year (additional years are optional) |
Locator Training - Model vLoc3-Pro
Slide show provided by Vivax-Metrotech.
Hover on slide to stop and move curser off slide to re-start.
FAQ
Every vLoc3-Pro receiver includes unique and proprietary modes, like Vector Locate mode, Plan View mode, Graphical Sonde mode, OMNI Peak mode, etc. Every vLoc3-Pro supports Fault-Find, EM marker locating, Bluetooth, etc. Every vLoc3-Pro includes all standard frequencies. Of course, it may require optional accessories for some of these tasks.
Every vLoc3-Pro offers FREE upgrades using the MyLocator3 application. This capability allows the locator always to have the latest firmware as any new one might have.
Some other manufacturers have decided to put a premium price on their equipment. If the price is affordable and more aligned with the market, there would be no reason to offer a "stripped down" version. However, Vivax-Metrotech has taken a different approach. The vLoc3-Pro comes standard with all popular features, modes, and the highest achieved performance. More importantly, it costs much less and provides much more value.
We cannot answer why some companies delay innovation. However, we can say that Vivax-Metrotech is an innovative pioneer. Bringing new technologies to the market that provide far better performance and accuracy is essential to the mission, i.e., Vivax-Metrotech is committed to advancing customer value in this market segment.
2023 Tracer Electronics LLC
Vivax-Metrotech vLoc3-Pro Precision Line Locator