Product Details
The Armada Technologies Pro290™ is a versatile and compact underground locator designed specifically for contractors who need a reliable, easy-to-use tool for residential and light commercial projects. Combining the power of a professional-grade transmitter with a highly sensitive receiver, the Pro290™ excels at locating buried irrigation valves, broken wires, and electrical cables. It utilizes a 33 kHz frequency, which provides the perfect balance for long-distance tracking while minimizing signal "bleeding" into adjacent pipes. The lightweight receiver features an adjustable sensitivity knob and an external speaker (with a headphone jack for noisy environments), allowing for pinpoint accuracy when determining both the path and the depth of a buried utility. Whether you are troubleshooting a failed sprinkler zone or mapping out landscape lighting wires, the Pro290™ offers professional performance in a travel-friendly package.
Key Features:
- 33 kHz Operating Frequency: Optimized for tracing buried wires and finding solenoid valves with high precision and minimal interference.
- Dual Locating Modes: Capable of tracking both the physical path of the wire and the specific location of a buried valve or wire break.
- Adjustable Sensitivity: The receiver's thumbwheel allows you to narrow down the signal as you get closer to the target for "nulling" or "peaking" accuracy.
- Compact & Portable: The entire system, including leads and ground stake, fits into a rugged, padded carrying case for easy transport between job sites.
- Visual and Audible Indicators: The receiver uses both a high-quality speaker and a signal strength meter to guide the user to the buried cable.
Specifications:
- Tracking Depth: Up to 4 feet deep
- Tracking Distance: Up to 1,000 feet (depending on soil conditions)
- Frequency: 33 kHz (Crystal Controlled)
- Power Source: 8 "C" Cell batteries for Transmitter; 1 9V battery for Receiver
- Output Voltage: 175V AC (Peak-to-Peak)
- Weight: 4.5 lbs (Entire Kit)
- Kit Includes: Pro290 Transmitter, Pro290 Receiver, Alligator Clips, Ground Stake, and Padded Carrying Case.
Installation & Operation Tips:
- The "Good Ground" Rule: For the best signal, ensure your ground stake is pushed into moist soil. If the ground is dry, pour a small amount of water around the stake to increase conductivity.
- Isolating the Wire: Disconnect the wire you are tracking from the controller or power source before attaching the transmitter to prevent signal interference or damage to the clock.
- Finding a Break: When tracking a broken wire, the signal will vanish or significantly drop once you pass the point of the break. Mark this spot for excavation.
- Battery Care: Always remove batteries if the unit will be stored for more than 30 days to prevent corrosion and leakage.
Common Uses/Applications:
- Irrigation Troubleshooting: Locating "lost" or buried valve boxes and tracking solenoid wires.
- Landscape Lighting: Finding breaks in 12V low-voltage cable or mapping out wire runs before aerating or trenching.
- Invisible Pet Fences: Quickly identifying wire breaks in underground pet containment systems.
Common Questions:
- Q: Can the Pro290™ find the depth of a wire?
- A: Yes. By using the 45-degree angle method with the receiver, a technician can estimate the depth of the buried cable with high accuracy.
- Q: Does it work on energized wires?
- A: No. The Pro290™ is designed for use on de-energized wires. Always turn off the power at the breaker or controller before connecting the transmitter.
- Q: Is it safe to use in the rain?
- A: The unit is weather-resistant, but it is not waterproof. Avoid using the transmitter or receiver in heavy downpours or submerged conditions.
The Armada Technologies Pro290™ provides the essential features needed to find buried utilities quickly, accurately, and affordably.