Sonde Locate Performance
Precision and Marker Locator Range
More accurate. More intuitive. Free for RD7200, RD8200 and RD8200G owners.
Sonde Locate Performance is a significant enhancement to sonde locating on Radiodetection precision locators. Whether you're tracing a standard sonde through a duct, locating a marker ball, or tracking a pushrod or crawler camera through a pipe, it delivers greater accuracy and more consistent results, from routine utility tracing to the most demanding inspection work.
Available now as a free software update via RD Manager Online, there is no new hardware required and no service centre visit needed.
What is Sonde Locate Performance?
Locating operators need to pinpoint position and depth quickly and with confidence, whether they're tracing a standard duct sonde, locating a marker ball, or tracking a pushrod or crawler camera through underground infrastructure.
Sonde Locate Performance redesigns this workflow. A more guided, step-by-step locate process, clearer on-screen feedback and improved signal interpretation work together to reduce guesswork and deliver more consistent results, even in complex or congested underground environments.
How does the locate process work?
Sonde Locate Performance follows a clear two-phase approach:
Phase 1: Initial locate
- Select the sonde frequency on the locator to match the sonde in use.
- Use the signal strength bar graph as your primary guide. Signal strength increases as you move toward the sonde and peaks directly above it.
- Move the locator left and right to identify the point of maximum signal strength.
Phase 2: Pinpointing
- Hold the locator vertical until you hear a beep and the Sundial appears on the display.
- Rotate the locator until the Sundial indicates the sonde is positioned East-West. You are now aligned.
- Use the directional arrows to fine-tune your position.
- Once correctly positioned, the locator displays the sonde depth automatically.
How to update your software
Updating takes just a few minutes and can be done directly from your PC using RD Manager Online:
1. Download RD Manager Online
If you do not already have it installed, download RD Manager Online from the Radiodetection website. Compatible with Microsoft Windows 10 and Windows 11. Administrator privileges are required.
2. Connect your locator
Connect your RD7200, RD8200 or RD8200G to your PC via USB and sign into your Radiodetection account within RD Manager Online
3. Check for updates
Select Options and then 'Check for Updates'. If the latest software version is available, you will be prompted to download and install it.
4. Update and go
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update. Sonde Locate Performance will be available on your locator immediately.
Advantages
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A redesigned workflow guides operators through the locate process step by step, from initial signal acquisition through to precise pinpointing. Less guesswork, fewer steps, more confident results.
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Improved signal interpretation delivers more reliable depth readings and more consistent lateral positioning, particularly in congested underground environments where signal interference is common.
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Enhanced Sundial functionality gives a clearer visual indication of sonde orientation relative to the locator. Proportional directional arrows guide operators to the precise position above the sonde, where depth is displayed automatically.
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Sonde Locate Performance is delivered as a software update at no charge to all active RD7200, RD8200 and RD8200G owners. No new hardware is required and no service centre visit is needed.
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Sonde Locate Performance is available now for the following Radiodetection precision locators:
- RD7200 Cable and Pipe Locator
- RD8200 Cable and Pipe Locator
- RD8200SG Cable and Pipe Locator
RD8200SG (Survey Grade): Support for the RD8200SG is planned for a future release. We will communicate more details on timing as soon as they are confirmed.
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