Armada Technologies Pro700R

Need help?

Do you have a question about the Armada Technologies Pro700R and is the answer not in the manual?

Overview

Function Description
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

The Armada Technologies Pro700 Wire and Valve Locator is a specialized tool designed for locating lost valves, identifying broken or severely damaged wires, and tracing their paths in various underground installations. This device operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction, utilizing a transmitter to place a specific frequency signal onto a metallic conductor, which is then detected and amplified by a receiver wand.

Function Description

The core function of the Pro700 is to facilitate the precise location of underground metallic conductors, such as irrigation wires, and the valves connected to them. The system comprises a Pro700T Transmitter and a Pro700R Receiving Wand. The transmitter generates an alternating current (AC) signal that travels along the target cable, creating an electromagnetic field around it. This field is then detected by the receiver wand. The signal's path is completed by grounding, typically through a ground stake, allowing the current to return to the transmitter. This complete circuit is essential for the signal to propagate and be detectable. The device is particularly useful for diagnosing and locating faults, such as breaks or severe damage in wires, by observing changes or cessation of the signal along the cable's path. It can also pinpoint the exact location of valves and solenoids by identifying a distinct expansion of the signal field.

Usage Features

Kit Components: The complete Pro700 kit includes the Pro700R Receiving Wand, Pro700T Transmitter with its carrying case, a ProH1 Mono Headset for audio feedback, a ProGS Ground Stake for establishing a return path, a set of black/red connecting leads, and an operating manual. Users should verify all items are present before operation.

Battery Installation and Testing: The Pro700T Transmitter requires eight "D" cell batteries, while the Pro700R Receiver uses one 9V battery. For the transmitter, batteries are installed by opening the case and removing two screws on the battery compartment. Proper orientation of positive and negative poles is crucial. After installation, the red battery test button on the Pro700T should be pressed. A reading of 8 or higher on the analog meter indicates a successful installation. For the receiver, the 9V battery is installed in a compartment on the underside, secured by two screws. Pressing the battery test button on the Pro700R should cause the analog needle to peg to the right. Fresh batteries are recommended for optimal performance.

Grounding and Connection: Proper grounding is critical for the Pro700's operation. The red alligator lead from the transmitter connects to the wire to be traced (e.g., common or station wire), and the black alligator lead connects to the ground stake. The ground stake should be inserted into the soil perpendicular to the wire's path and as far from the transmitter as possible. It is advised not to connect to the clock directly, as the signal may cause damage if the clock is not voltage protected. Independent ground stakes are generally preferred over common grounds like pipes or electrical grounds.

Transmitter Operation: Once connected, the Pro700 transmitter is turned on. The power output knob is adjusted to achieve a reading between 4 and 8 on the analog meter. If a reading of 4 cannot be achieved, the grounding setup should be re-evaluated. Moistening the grounding area can improve soil conductivity. Overpowering the unit by turning it past 10 on the meter is unnecessary and wastes battery power.

Receiver Operation and Tracing: The Pro700 receiver is activated by turning its volume knob. A beeping sound indicates proper function. A high-pitched tone might suggest proximity to the receiver or low batteries, while a fading signal indicates low battery. The receiver's volume control adjusts both headphone and external speaker loudness. The analog meter visually indicates signal strength. When tracing, the receiver is pointed towards the ground. The signal will be loudest when near the cable, but the Pro700 operates on the NULL principle, meaning the signal will null or stop directly over the cable. This null point precisely indicates the wire's location.

Finding Faults: The Pro700 can locate breaks or severe damage in wires. The setup is similar to wire tracing. A break will cause the signal to stop at the point of the break, while a nick or damage will result in a significant signal drop, though not necessarily a complete cessation. The faulted area may also present a "hot spot" of signal as the current leaks to ground. It's crucial that the wire being tracked is grounded for a successful locate. The transmitter's analog meter will indicate a bad ground if the needle cannot reach 4 or better at full power. Users should avoid letting the receiver level go above 10 to clearly observe signal drops. Practice and experience are key to identifying subtle damage.

Finding Solenoids and Valves: To locate a specific valve, the red lead of the transmitter is connected to the station wire leading to that valve, and the black lead to ground. As the receiver approaches a valve or solenoid, the signal will expand into a larger (approximately 2-4 ft diameter) area. This expansion signifies the presence of a valve or solenoid, and the signal should not continue past this point. Multiple valves on the same cable can be identified by continuing the trace past the first located valve.

Helpful Hints: Increases in signal strength or the size of the signal area often indicate an anomaly in the cabling, such as valves, nicks, cuts, bad splices, or cut wires. A good condition cable typically shows a gradual loss of reception over distance, not sudden changes in tone or strength. Slack loops of extra wire left during installation can also cause an increase in signal. Soil conditions significantly impact performance; moist, conductive soil yields better results than dry, sandy soil. Adding a little water at the ground stake in dry conditions can help. Practical experience with the Pro700 in a test environment is highly recommended.

Maintenance Features

Battery Replacement: Regular monitoring of battery levels is essential for consistent performance. The battery test buttons on both the transmitter and receiver allow users to quickly check battery status. Prompt replacement of low or depleted batteries ensures accurate readings and reliable operation.

Grounding Optimization: Maintaining a good ground connection is crucial. Users should regularly check the ground stake's security and placement in the dirt. If soil conditions are poor (e.g., dry or sandy), moistening the area around the ground stake can significantly improve conductivity and signal strength.

Care and Handling: The device should be handled with care to prevent damage. The Pro700T Transmitter comes with a carrying case to protect it during transport and storage.

Safety Warning: A critical safety warning advises against touching the red and black clips connected to the cable when the transmitter's power is on, as there is a danger of injury or death.

Troubleshooting Resources: For additional setup and operation guidance, users can refer to the provided YouTube link or QR code, which directs to Armada Technologies' troubleshooting videos on their YouTube channel, "ArmadaTech."

Warranty: Armada Technologies offers a 12-month warranty from the retail purchase date, covering manufacturing defects. The company will repair or replace components returned within this period, provided they do not show signs of abuse or misuse. Armada Technologies reserves the right to determine the condition and may require proof of purchase for warranty claims.