Digital Control Z22012 BTWL, BTPL User Manual DigiTrak Falcon F5 OM draft
Digital Control Inc BTWL, BTPL DigiTrak Falcon F5 OM draft
User Manual
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
ii DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
403-2400-00-A, Mar 2016
© 2015 by Digital Control Incorporated. All rights reserved.
Trademarks
Aurora, the DCI logo, DigiTrak®, F5®, and Target Steering® are U.S. registered trademarks and the Aurora logo,
Ball-in-the-Box™, DigiTrak Falcon™, F Series™, and SuperCell™, are trademarks of Digital Control Incorporated.
Patents
U.S. and foreign patents apply to the product covered by this manual. For details, please visit
www.DigiTrak.com/patents.
Limited Warranty
All products manufactured and sold by Digital Control Incorporated (DCI) are subject to the terms of a Limited
Warranty. A copy of the Limited Warranty is included at the end of this manual; it can also be obtained at
www.DigiTrak.com.
Important Notice
All statements, technical information, and recommendations related to DCI products are based on information
believed to be reliable. However, DCI does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such
information. Before using any DCI product, the user should determine the suitability of the product for its intended
use. All statements herein refer to DCI products as delivered by DCI for use with horizontal directional drilling in the
ordinary course, and do not apply to any user customizations, third-party products, or any usage of the DCI product
outside of the ordinary course. Nothing herein shall constitute a warranty by DCI nor will anything herein be deemed
to modify the terms of DCI’s existing Limited Warranty applicable to all DCI products. DCI may update or correct the
information in this manual from time to time. You may find the most recent version of this manual on DCI's website,
www.DigiTrak.com. Under Service & Support, click Documentation and select from the Manuals drop-down menu.
Compliance Statement
This equipment complies with Part 15 of the Rules of the FCC and with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS
standards and with Australia Class License 2000 for LIPD (low interference potential devices). Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) this equipment may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this equipment must
accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. DCI is responsible for
FCC compliance in the United States: Digital Control Incorporated, 19625 62nd Ave S, Suite B103, Kent WA 98032;
phone 425.251.0559 or 800.288.3610 (US/CA).
Changes or modifications to any DCI equipment not expressly approved and carried out by DCI will void the user’s
Limited Warranty and the FCC’s authorization to operate the equipment.
CE Requirements
DigiTrak receivers are classified as Class 2 radio equipment per the R&TTE Directive and may not
be legal to operate or require a user license to operate in some countries. The list of restrictions and the required
declarations of conformity are available on DCI’s website at www.DigiTrak.com. Under Service & Support, click
Documentation and select from the CE Documents drop-down menu.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual iii
Contact Us
United States
DCI Headquarters
19625 62nd Ave S, Suite B103
Kent, Washington 98032, USA
+1.425.251.0559 / 1.800.288.3610
+1.425.251.0702 fax
dci@digital-control.com
Australia
2/9 Frinton Street
Southport QLD 4215
+61.7.5531.4283
+61.7.5531.2617 fax
dci.australia@digital-control.com
China
368 Xingle Road
Huacao Town
Minhang District
Shanghai 201107, P.R.C.
+86.21.6432.5186
+86.21.6432.5187 fax
dci.china@digital-control.com
Europe
Brueckenstraße 2
97828 Marktheidenfeld
Germany
+49.9391.810.6100
+49.9391.810.6109 fax
dci.europe@digital-control.com
India
DTJ 1023, 10th Floor
DLF Tower A, DA District Center
Jasola, New Delhi 110044
+91.11.4507.0444
+91.11.4507.0440 fax
dci.india@digital-control.com
Russia
Molodogvardeyskaya Street, 4
Building 1, Office 5
Moscow, Russia 121467
+7.499.281.8177
+7.499.281.8166 fax
dci.russia@digital-control.com
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
iv DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing a DigiTrak guidance system. We are proud of the equipment we have
been designing and building in Washington State since 1990. We believe in providing a
unique, high-quality product and standing behind it with world-class customer service and
training.
Please take the time to read this entire manual, especially the section on safety. Please also
register your equipment online at access.DigiTrak.com. Or, fill in the product registration card
provided with this equipment and either fax it to us at 253-395-2800 or mail it to DCI
headquarters.
Product registration entitles you to free telephone support (in the USA and Canada),
notification of product updates, and helps us provide you with future product upgrade
information.
Our Customer Service department is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the U.S. to
help with problems or questions. International contact information is available in this
document and on our website.
As the horizontal directional drilling industry grows, we’re keeping our eye on the future to
develop equipment that makes your job faster, easier, and safer. Visit us online any time to
see what we’re up to.
We welcome your questions, comments, and ideas.
Digital Control Incorporated
Kent, Washington
2015
Watch our DigiTrak Training Videos at www.youtube.com/dcikent
For system component name and model information, refer to Appendix A on page 72.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual v
Table of Contents
Important Safety Instructions 1
General ........................................................................................................... 1
Pre-Drilling Testing .......................................................................................... 2
Interference ..................................................................................................... 2
Battery Pack Storage ...................................................................................... 3
Equipment Maintenance .................................................................................. 3
General Transmitter Care Instructions ............................................................. 4
Getting Started 5
Introduction ..................................................................................................... 5
Using This Manual ........................................................................................... 6
Powering On.................................................................................................... 7
Receiver .................................................................................................. 7
Transmitter ............................................................................................. 7
Remote Display (Aurora) ........................................................................... 7
Setup Summary ............................................................................................... 8
Run the Frequency Optimizer ..................................................................... 8
Assign Frequency Bands ............................................................................ 8
Interference Check ................................................................................... 9
Calibrate ................................................................................................. 9
Above Ground Range Check....................................................................... 9
Drill ........................................................................................................ 9
Receiver 10
Overview ....................................................................................................... 10
Toggle and Trigger Switches .......................................................................... 11
Audible Tones ................................................................................................. 11
Startup Screen ............................................................................................... 11
Using the Keypad .......................................................................................... 12
Your Remote Display ..................................................................................... 12
Receiver Menus 14
Locate Mode.................................................................................................. 15
Power Off ...................................................................................................... 15
Calibration ..................................................................................................... 16
1 Point Calibration ................................................................................... 16
2 Point Calibration (In Ground) ................................................................. 18
View Calibration ...................................................................................... 19
Above Ground Range (AGR) ..................................................................... 19
50 Foot Calibration (Optional) ................................................................... 21
Height-Above-Ground (HAG) ........................................................................ 21
Settings ......................................................................................................... 23
Depth Units Menu .................................................................................... 23
Pitch Units Menu ..................................................................................... 23
Set Time and Calendar Menu .................................................................... 24
Telemetry Channel Menu .......................................................................... 24
Roll Offset Menu ...................................................................................... 25
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Pressure Units Menu ................................................................................ 26
Temperature Units Menu .......................................................................... 26
Error! Bookmark not defined.
Language Selection Menu ......................................................................... 26
Transmitter Selection and Frequency Optimization ....................................... 26
Frequency Optimization ........................................................................... 27
So I Just Paired, Now What? ..................................................................... 30
Transmitter Selection ............................................................................... 30
View Frequency Optimization .................................................................... 31
Transmitter Information ........................................................................... 31
DataLog ......................................................................................................... 32
Left/Right Offset ..................................................................................... 33
Deviation ............................................................................................... 33
Flags and Pins ......................................................................................... 34
Diagnostics .................................................................................................... 34
Perform Level Check ................................................................................ 35
Perform System Self-Test ......................................................................... 36
Perform Signal Self-Test .......................................................................... 36
System Info ................................................................................................... 37
Locating Basics 38
Locating Screens ........................................................................................... 39
Locate Screen ......................................................................................... 39
Locate Screen Shortcuts .......................................................................... 40
Depth Screen .......................................................................................... 40
Predicted Depth Screen ............................................................................ 42
Depth Screen, Invalid Location ................................................................. 43
Interference ................................................................................................... 43
What is Interference? .............................................................................. 43
Checking for Interference ......................................................................... 44
Roll/Pitch Check ...................................................................................... 45
Suggestions for Dealing with Interference .................................................. 46
Locate Points (FLP & RLP) and Locate Line (LL) .......................................... 46
Effects of Depth, Pitch, and Topography on Distance Between FLP and RLP .... 48
Marking Locate Points .............................................................................. 49
Locating the Transmitter ................................................................................ 49
Finding the Front Locate Point (FLP) .......................................................... 50
Finding the Locate Line (LL) ...................................................................... 52
Finding the RLP to Confirm Transmitter Heading and Position ....................... 54
Advanced Locating 56
Tracking “On-the-Fly” .................................................................................... 56
Off-Track Locating ......................................................................................... 58
Target Steering .............................................................................................. 59
Feasible Target Steering Area ................................................................... 60
Turning Target Steering On ...................................................................... 61
Positioning the Receiver as the Target ....................................................... 61
Steering to the Target with the Remote Display .......................................... 62
Target Steering in Interference Areas ........................................................ 62
Turn Target Steering Off .......................................................................... 63
Transmitter 64
Batteries and Power On/Off ........................................................................... 65
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Operator’s Manual vii
Installing Batteries / Power On .................................................................. 65
Transmitter Battery Strength .................................................................... 66
Sleep Mode ............................................................................................ 66
Transmitter Drill Head Requirements ............................................................ 67
Temperature Status and Overheat Indicator .................................................. 68
Transmitter Temperature Warning Tones ................................................... 68
Transmitter Overheat Indicator (Temp Dot) ................................................ 69
Changing Frequency Bands .......................................................................... 69
Above Ground (Pre-Bore) Tilt Method ........................................................ 69
Below Ground (Mid-Bore) Roll Methods ...................................................... 70
Appendix A: System Specifications 72
Power Requirements ..................................................................................... 72
Environmental Requirements ........................................................................ 72
Storage and Shipping Requirements ............................................................. 72
Temperature........................................................................................... 72
Packaging .............................................................................................. 72
Equipment and Battery Disposal ................................................................... 73
Transmitter Pitch Resolution ......................................................................... 73
Appendix B: Receiver Screen Symbols 74
Appendix C: Projected Depth Versus Actual Depth and the Fore/Aft
Offset 77
What Happens When the Transmitter Is Steep and Deep ............................. 77
Appendix D: Calculating Depth Based on Distance Between FLP and
RLP 82
Appendix E: Reference Tables 83
Depth Increase in Inches per 10-ft. Rod ........................................................ 83
Depth Increase in Inches per 15-ft. Rod ........................................................ 84
LIMITED WARRANTY
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
viii DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 1
Important Safety Instructions
General
The following warnings relate generally to the operation of DigiTrak guidance systems.
This is not an exhaustive list. Always operate your DigiTrak guidance system in
accordance with the manual and be aware of interference that may affect efforts to
retrieve accurate data with this guidance system. Failure to do so can be hazardous. If
you have any questions about the operation of the system, please contact DCI
Customer Service for assistance.
Warning To prevent potentially dangerous conditions, all operators must read
and understand the following safety precautions, warnings and
instructions before using the DigiTrak Guidance System.
DigiTrak guidance systems cannot be used to locate utilities.
Failure to use the front and rear locate points technique described in this manual
for locating the transmitter can lead to inaccurate locates.
Serious injury and death as well as substantial property damage can result if
underground drilling equipment makes contact with an underground utility,
including natural gas lines, high-voltage electrical cable, or other utilities.
DCI equipment is not explosion-proof and should never be used near flammable
or explosive substances.
Work slowdowns and cost overruns can occur if drilling operators do not use the
drilling or locating equipment correctly to obtain proper performance.
Directional drilling operators MUST at all times:
Understand the safe and proper operation of drilling and locating equipment, including
proper grounding procedures and techniques for identifying and mitigating interference.
Ensure all underground utilities and all potential sources of interference have been
located, exposed, and accurately marked prior to drilling.
Wear protective safety clothing such as dielectric boots, gloves, hard hats, high-visibility
vests, and safety glasses.
Locate and track the transmitter in the drill head accurately and correctly during drilling.
Maintain a minimum distance of 8 in. from the front of the receiver to the user’s torso to
ensure compliance with RF exposure requirements.
Comply with federal, state, and local governmental regulations (such as OSHA).
Follow all other safety procedures.
Remove the batteries from all system components during shipping and prolonged storage.
Failure to do so may result in battery leakage, which may lead to risk of explosion, health
risks, and/or damage.
Store and transport batteries using a suitable protective case that will keep batteries safely
isolated from one another. Failure to do so may result in short circuits, which may lead to
hazardous conditions including fire. See Appendix A for important restrictions on shipping
lithium-ion batteries.
Use of this equipment is restricted to internal use at a construction site.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
2 DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
Pre-Drilling Testing
Before each drilling run, test your DigiTrak guidance system with the transmitter inside the
drill head to confirm it is operating properly and providing accurate drill head location and
heading information.
During drilling, the depth will not be accurate unless:
The receiver has been properly calibrated and the calibration has been checked for
accuracy so the receiver shows the correct depth.
The transmitter has been located correctly and accurately and the receiver is directly
above the transmitter in the drill head underground or at the front locate point.
The receiver is placed on the ground or held at the correct height-above-ground distance,
which has been set correctly.
Always test calibration after you have stopped drilling for any length of time.
Interference
Active interference levels can change with time and location, passive interference (which the
system does not detect) may be present, and performance may vary as a result. The Falcon
system measures active interference at a given point in time and space, and the frequency
optimizer selects frequencies based on these measurements. Noise measurements and
frequency selections by the system are not a substitute for prudent operator judgment. If
performance drops while drilling, consider switching to the other selected band, using Max
mode, or re-optimizing.
Potential Interference Received
Interference can cause inaccuracies in the measurement of depth and loss of the
transmitter’s pitch, roll, or heading. Always perform a background noise check using your
receiver (locator), as well as a visual inspection for possible sources of interference, prior to
drilling.
A background noise check will not identify all sources of interference, as it can only pick up
sources that are active, not passive. Interference, as well as a partial list of sources of
interference, are discussed in the section Interference on page 43.
Never rely on data that does not display quickly and/or remain stable.
Potential Interference Generated
Because this equipment may generate, use, and radiate radio frequency energy, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur at a particular location. If this equipment does
interfere with radio or television reception, which can be determined by powering the
equipment off and on, try to correct the interference using one or more of the following
measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the receiver and affected equipment.
Consult the dealer, DCI, or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a different circuit.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 3
Battery Pack Storage
If you plan to store the battery packs for any period of time, please follow these guidelines:
Do not store the battery pack at temperatures greater than 113° F.
Do not store the battery pack in a fully discharged state.
Do not store the battery pack in the battery charger.
Do not store multiple batteries together where their terminals or other loose conductive
materials may contact one another and cause a short circuit.
If a lithium-ion battery pack will be stored for an extended period of time, pre-charge the
battery to a charge level of 30% to 50% (two or three LEDs illuminated on the meter). Do not
store the battery pack for more than one year unless it is periodically recharged to the 30% to
50% level.
Equipment Maintenance
Turn off all equipment when not in use.
Store the equipment in cases, away from extremes of heat, cold, and moisture. Test to
confirm proper operation prior to use.
Clean the glass screens on the receiver and remote display only with a cleaner specifically
formulated to not harm the protective coatings on the glass. If in doubt, use only warm water
and a microfiber cloth. Do not use household or commercial window cleaning products that
include chemicals such as ammonia, alcohol, or any acidic liquid; these cleaners can contain
microscopic abrasive granules that will damage the anti-reflective coating and may cause the
display to spot.
Clean equipment cases and housings using only a soft moist cloth and mild detergent.
Do not steam clean or pressure wash.
Inspect the equipment daily and contact DCI if you see any damage or problems. Do not
disassemble or attempt to repair the equipment.
Do not store or ship this equipment with batteries inside. Always remove the batteries from
the equipment before shipping or periods of non-use.
The battery charger provided with your DigiTrak guidance system is designed with adequate
safeguards to protect you from shock and other hazards when used as specified within this
document. If you use the battery charger in a manner not specified by this document, the
protection provided may be impaired. Do not attempt to disassemble the battery charger, it
contains no user-serviceable parts. The battery charger shall not be installed into caravans,
4recreational vehicles, or similar vehicles.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
4 DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
General Transmitter Care Instructions
Periodically clean the spring and threads inside the battery compartment as well as the spring
and threads of the battery end cap to ensure a proper power connection with the batteries.
Use an emery cloth or wire brush to remove any oxidation that has built up. Be careful not to
damage the battery cap O-ring; remove it while cleaning if necessary. After cleaning, use a
conductive lubricant on the battery cap threads to keep it from binding in the battery
compartment.
Note For better battery performance, all DCI battery-powered transmitters ship
with both a special battery contact spring and a nickel-based anti-seize
lubricant on the battery end cap to aid in electrical contact.
Before use, inspect the battery cap O-ring for damage that may allow water to enter the
battery compartment. Replace the O-ring if the one installed becomes damaged.
Do not use chemicals to clean the transmitter.
Placing tape around the fiberglass tube of the transmitter, if space allows, will keep the
fiberglass protected from most corrosive and abrasive environmental wear. Do not tape over
the IR window as this will interfere with IR communication.
Falcon transmitters have a threaded hole (1/4”-20 thread) in the battery cap to allow the use
of an insertion/extraction tool for installing and removing the transmitters in end-load
housings. Ensure this hole remains clear of debris.
Send in the Product Registration Card or register online at access.DigiTrak.com for the
90-day Limited Warranty.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 5
Getting Started
Introduction
Typical DigiTrak Falcon F5 Guidance System with Aurora Remote Display
Congratulations on your purchase of the DigiTrak Falcon F5 guidance system. The Falcon
wideband technology represents an important advancement in the detection of active
interference at the jobsite. Falcon extends the performance range of the F5 receiver with a
durable system that can be programmed to address the variability in jobsite interference.
Historically, walkover guidance systems have used a single frequency to transmit the
underground signal to the receiver above ground. DCI pioneered this method with its earliest
guidance systems to deliver roll and pitch readings to the operator. As trenchless techniques
have advanced, sources of active interference have increased at jobsites and interference
has emerged as one of the primary obstacles to completing HDD installations on time.
One of the unique attributes of interference is that it varies from jobsite to jobsite. A single
frequency that works well at one site may not be useable at another. Using a single
frequency to carry the guidance signal limits the operator’s efficiency in areas with high
interference and can delay the completion of the job.
The Falcon approach uses a simple procedure of walking the jobsite to measure noise and
then optimizing the band of frequencies that will be most effective. A Falcon F5 wideband
transmitter can be programmed with two optimized bands for maximum productivity around
high interference. The optimizing process is easy and takes only minutes to perform at the
beginning of each pilot bore. A Falcon system with a wideband transmitter substantially
outperforms other guidance systems in its class and enables more efficient installations.
Receiver
Aurora remote
display
Li-ion/NiMH
Battery charger
Transmitter
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
6 DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
The Falcon system comes standard with a remote display, batteries, and battery charger.
The separate operator's manuals for these devices are located on the flash drive that
accompanied your guidance system and also at www.DigiTrak.com.
Using This Manual
This manual is an important tool for you as the operator of a Falcon guidance system. You
can find it on the flash drive that accompanied your system or at www.DigiTrak.com. We
encourage you to load it onto your mobile device and keep it handy so the information you
need is always close at hand.
What if I have a question about this topic?
As you read this manual, you may have questions. We've already answered some of
them right at the source in boxes like this. If the topic isn't for you, skip it and read on.
You might need this Page 6
Sometimes it's handy to have some extra information at your fingertips. While it may be
discussed in detail elsewhere in the manual, we've extracted and placed some important
data right where you need it, with a page link if you want to read more.
Go watch some TV
Subjects with training videos available online will be marked with this icon.
To help find those distant details, the manual includes hyperlinks that will take you right there,
like this example:
Prior to use, the receiver must be paired to and calibrated with the
transmitter.
Calibration
Page 16
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 7
Powering On
The regional designation number in the globes on the receiver startup screen and transmitter
body must match. If they don’t, contact your DigiTrak dealer.
Toggle, trigger, go Page 11
At the Locate screen, toggle down to open the Main menu. Toggle in any direction to
reach the icon you want. Click the trigger to make a selection. In some cases, hold the
trigger for additional information, such as a depth reading at the Locate screen.
Receiver
1. Install a fully charged battery pack.
2. Power on the receiver by holding the trigger briefly.
3. Click to accept the “Read the manual before using” statement.
4. First time use: from the Main > Settings menu, set the depth units, pitch
units, and telemetry channel.
Settings
Page 23
5. On the Main menu, set the optional Height-Above-Ground.
Height-Above-Ground (HAG)
Page 21
Transmitter
Do not power on the transmitter until after running the frequency
optimizer (see next section). After that, or after resuming work (such
as after lunch) using the same frequency bands, simply install
batteries with the positive end first and completely fasten the battery
cap.
Batteries and Power On/Off
Page 65
Remote Display (Aurora)
The Aurora remote display powers on automatically with the drill rig.
1. First time use: tap Main Menu in the taskbar, then Device to set the depth and
pitch units.
2. Tap to return to Settings, then Receiver to set your receiver model and
telemetry channel. Use the same settings as on the receiver. It is also good practice to
use the same system of units (English or metric) on both devices.
3. Verify data is being received from receiver. If not, verify proper region is set on both
devices.
If you are using an existing DigiTrak remote display, select F5 to receive data from the
locator, and refer to the separate operator's manual located on the flash drive that
accompanied your guidance system and also at www.DigiTrak.com.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
8 DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
Setup Summary
Getting started with a Falcon F5 receiver is easy: run the frequency optimizer, walk and
scan the bore path, pair the receiver with the transmitter, calibrate, check Above Ground
Range, and check for active interference. It's all summarized in the following several
paragraphs, with links to the details later in this manual. If you're hungry for the details now,
skip to Receiver on page 10.
Run the Frequency Optimizer
1. With the transmitter off (batteries not installed), take the receiver to the point along the
intended bore that might create the biggest locating challenge, like the deepest point of
the bore or where there is obvious active interference such as a railway crossing,
transformer, traffic lights, or power lines.
2. Power on the receiver and from the Main menu select Transmitter
Selection, then Frequency Optimizer (FO).
Transmitter
Selection
Page 26
3. With the FO results active, walk the entire intended bore path with the receiver and note
areas of high background noise (active interference). The higher a frequency band's bar
is on the graph, the greater the interference. Note which band remains consistently low,
since the band with the lowest level of interference will likely be the one you want to use.
Assign Frequency Bands
1. On the receiver, toggle the selector on the bottom of the frequency optimizer graph to the
band you want to use and click to select.
2. Assign as the Up or Down band.
3. Optional: select and assign a second frequency band.
4. Select Pair .
5. Insert batteries in the transmitter, positive end first, install the battery cap, and allow several
seconds for the transmitter to fully power on and begin sending data to the receiver.
6. Align the receiver and transmitter IR windows within two inches of each other. Select
to open the pairing menu, then again to pair.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 9
Are high frequency bands better than low frequency bands?
Different bands are better for different kinds of interference. Lower frequency bands like
7 and 11 are typically better around rebar, passive interference, and salt water. The
middle frequency bands have slightly stronger signal strengths that can perform better
in deeper bores, plus have longer Target Steering capability. The highest bands have
slightly less signal strength but tend to perform better around active interference such
as power lines.
Interference Check
Now that your transmitter is paired with your receiver, walk the bore
with both the receiver and transmitter powered on to check for active
interference on both frequency bands.
Interference
Page 43
Changing Frequency Bands
Page 69
Calibrate
Perform a separate 1-point calibration for each newly optimized
frequency band in a low-noise area with the transmitter in a housing.
Always calibrate after assigning a new frequency band.
Calibration
Page 16
If you paired two bands and want to be able to switch between them later (you do), calibrate
both bands.
Above Ground Range Check
Perform an Above Ground Range check (located on the Calibration
menu) on the new optimized frequency band (or bands) before
drilling. The AGR screen displays automatically after calibration.
Above Ground Range (AGR)
Page 19
If the above-ground AGR distance at 50 ft. is not accurate, conduct a
50 ft calibration (which also uses only one point) to improve the
accuracy of the above-ground distance measurement. A 50 ft.
calibration (located on the AGR screen) is not necessary for drilling.
50 ft. Calibration Calibration
Page 21
Drill
What are you waiting for? Start drilling. Or read on for more details and cool acronyms to
know about the best locator on the planet.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
10 DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
Receiver
I know what a toggle switch is; can I skip this? Page 14
This section is like shaking hands with your Falcon for the first time. If you and your
receiver already have a solid relationship, you can probably jump ahead to Receiver
Menus.
Falcon F5 Receiver
Overview
The DigiTrak Falcon F5 receiver (locator) is a handheld unit used for locating and tracking a
Falcon wideband transmitter. It converts signals from the transmitter to display depth, pitch,
roll, temperature, and battery level, plus sends this information to the remote display on the
drill rig.
The receiver and transmitter must meet specific operational require-
ments for different global regions. A regional designation number is
located on the receiver’s startup screen. This number must match the
one stamped on the transmitter for proper communication.
Receiver Startup Screen
Figure, Page 11
Prior to use, the receiver must be paired to and calibrated with the
transmitter.
Calibration
Page 16
Infrared
window
Trigger switch
Front
Battery
tab
Screen
Battery
compartment
Serial
number
Toggle switch
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 11
Toggle and Trigger Switches
The Falcon F5 receiver has two switches for operating the system: a toggle switch located on
the top of the unit and a trigger located under the handle.
Toggle Switch Use to access and navigate menus.
Trigger Switch Use to turn on the receiver, select (click on) menu options, and
change the screen view for depth readings. Pull and release
(click) once, hold briefly and release, or use in combination with
the toggle switch, depending on the desired action.
Audible Tones
The Falcon F5 receiver beeps to signal power on/off, confirm menu
changes, and acknowledge the pass/fail status of actions. The
receiver also beeps with transmitter temperature increases.
Transmitter Temperature
Warning Tones
Page 68
Two long beeps indicate a problem with the menu option selected and a failure screen will
appear until you click the trigger or remove the battery (in the case of a critical failure). Verify
your setup and try the operation again or contact DCI Customer Service for assistance.
Startup Screen
Insert a charged battery pack. To power on the receiver, click the trigger. After you have read
the warning screen, click again to acknowledge you have read and understand this manual.
The receiver displays the startup screen:
Receiver Startup Screen
Click to exit the startup screen and open the Main menu.
Receiver Menus
Page 14
Note If an item of the self-test fails, a warning displays and a failure
message appears in place of the system name. Please contact DCI
Customer Service.
Calibration
Page 16
Customer service
phone numbers
Regional designation
number must match
that of transmitter
Receiver ID number
Software version
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Can I change the screen brightness?
No. The display is pre-tuned for optimal contrast and visibility in all conditions.
Using the Keypad
Use the keypad for setting the height-above-ground (HAG) value, a target depth for Target
Steering, date and time, and for programming rod lengths and survey points in the DataLog
function.
Standard Keypad
To input a value, toggle to and select the desired digits from left to right. When a decimal
value is required (such as for feet only or meters), then the last two digits entered will be to
the right of the decimal point. To enter a whole value, enter two zeros at the end of the value.
Use backspace to delete the last digit entered. Once the desired number is in the display
window, select Enter to lock in the value and turn on the function.
Your Remote Display
The Falcon F5 receiver is compatible with the following remote displays:
Remote Display
Minimum Software
Version
Select on Remote
Display
Falcon Compact Display - FCD
all
Falcon F5
Multi-Function Display - MFD
3.0, F5 compatible
F5
F Series Display - FSD
all
F5
Aurora - AP8, AF8, AF10
all
Falcon F5 or F5
A remote display that accompanied your Falcon F5 receiver will already be set to
communicate with your receiver.
Enter
Display window
Backspace
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If you purchased your Falcon F5 receiver by itself, your existing remote display may not
include the required F5 option. If so, contact your regional DCI office or Customer Service for
a software upgrade.
The operator's manuals for these remote displays are located on the flash drive that
accompanied your Falcon F5 guidance system and also at www.DigiTrak.com. For an MFD,
use the FSD manual.
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Receiver Menus
I am already familiar with DigiTrak receiver menus; can I skip this? Page 26
If you have used a DigiTrak F5 receiver, you are well on your way to mastering a Falcon
F5. Read the section on Frequency Optimization, then come back here later if you feel
lonely.
To access the Main menu from the Locate screen, toggle down. The Locate Mode icon is
shown selected below; clicking the trigger would return you to the Locate screen.
1. Telemetry Channel
2. Transmitter type and frequency band
3. Band Up or Down
4. Receiver battery strength
5. Blue background = selected
6. Down arrow indicates second page below (toggle down to view)
7. Second page
Receiver Main Menus
The top of the Main menu displays the transmitter frequency band, telemetry channel, and
receiver battery strength.
The following sections describe the Main menu items in order. Use the links in the menu
above to jump straight to a section.
1 2 3 4
6
7
5
Locate Mode
Power Off Calibration
HAG Settings Transmitter
Selection
DataLog Diagnostics
System
Information
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Is there a faster way to get to the menu item I want?
Yes, it's called screen wrapping. If you're at the top of a menu page, toggle
up
to jump to
the bottom, or if you're at the left side, toggle
left
to jump to the right, and so on. To get
from the top-left icon to the bottom right on the next page, you could toggle
right-right-
down-down
, or just
left-up
. Yeah. Pretty cool.
Locate Mode
When the receiver is detecting a signal from a transmitter, the Locate screen provides real-
time data about the transmitter’s location, temperature, pitch, roll, fluid pressure (when a fluid
pressure transmitter is used), and signal strength. See Locate Screen on page 39 for more
information.
Power Off
Select Power Off from the Main menu to turn the receiver off. The receiver automatically
shuts down after 15 minutes of inactivity, or after 30 minutes when in Target Steering mode.
Is it okay to power off by pulling the battery out?
Yes, your Falcon can handle it.
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Calibration
Use the Calibration menu to calibrate the receiver to a transmitter. Calibration is required
prior to first-time use and before using a different transmitter, receiver, drill head, or
transmitter band.
Calibrate each band separately
If you select an optimized band that has not been calibrated yet, appears in the roll
indicator. Calibrate separately for each optimized frequency band prior to each job.
Calibration affects depth readings, but not roll/pitch.
Do not calibrate if:
You are within 10 ft. of metal structures, such as steel pipe, chain-link fence, metal siding,
construction equipment, automobiles, etc.
The receiver is over rebar or underground utilities.
The receiver is in the vicinity of excessive interference, as shown by
high background noise readings on the frequency optimizer graph,
or an A (Attenuation) at the bottom left of the graph. Also, the
receiver will not allow calibration with a flashing red signal strength
value on the locate screen or a flashing red A at the top right of the
roll indicator.
The receiver is not displaying transmitter data.
The signal strength from the transmitter is less than 300 points (too
low) or greater than 950 points (too high). Outside this range, a
calibration failure screen will indicate low or high signal strength (see
step 6 on page 17). Check your setup and try again.
Frequency Optimizer
Results
Page 27
Installing Batteries /
Power On
Page 65
Attenuation
Page 74
The transmitter must be installed in a drill head during calibration.
During calibration, Height-Above-Ground (HAG) is automatically turned off. After
calibration, HAG must be turned back on manually.
HAG
Page 21
1-Point Calibration
This is the most common method of calibrating depth readings and is accomplished above
ground, prior to drilling.
1. Place the receiver and the transmitter (in a drill head) parallel to each other on level
ground, with both devices powered on.
2. With the receiver at the Locate screen, verify that roll and pitch values are being
displayed and that a steady signal is being received from the transmitter. The transmit-
ter’s signal strength at calibration is available under View calibration. A change in signal
strength later can indicate you are currently in an interference environment or there is a
problem with your equipment.
3. Move the locator within 2 ft. of the transmitter to enable signal attenuation, indicated by
an A at the top right of the roll indicator. Move the locator back to 10 ft. away and verify
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attenuation turns off. If it does not, excessive noise may be present. Due to its higher
signal strength, a 19 in. transmitter must be moved more than 10 ft. away from the
receiver before attenuation will turn off.
4. At the Main menu, select Calibration, then 1 pt calibration.
Calibration Menu
5. Use a tape measure to ensure the distance from the center of the transmitter to the inside
edge of the receiver is 10 ft. as shown below, then click Continue to begin the
calibration.
Calibration Screen
6. Do not move the receiver. A successful calibration yields a check mark and four
beeps.
An unsuccessful calibration displays as either "signal too low" or "signal too high"
and sounds two beeps. Calibration will fail when the signal from the transmitter is below 300
or above 950 points, or when signal attenuation is in effect. Review the items mentioned in
the question titled "Why do I keep getting calibration errors?" below, then click Retry to try
calibrating again.
After a successful calibration of one band, before proceeding to the
AGR screen to verify above-ground distances for this calibration, the
Above Ground Range (AGR)
Page 19
View Calibration
1 pt calibration
Above Ground Range (AGR)
If you just completed AGR after calibration, don't forget to turn
Height-Above-Ground (HAG) back on, if necessary.
HAG
Page 21
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receiver briefly displays this icon:
This simply means that one band has been calibrated, but one has not. After checking AGR
for the current band, remember to calibrate and check the AGR of the other band.
Why do I keep getting calibration errors?
Carefully review the items under "Do not calibrate if" at the beginning of this section. Try
calibrating in a different location. Make sure the transmitter is on and paired (data
showing on the Locate screen). Check your batteries. If you're still having trouble, give us
a call, we'll get you going.
Note If depth data does not display, hold the trigger while over the transmitter to
display the locate line. For additional information on obtaining this
reference lock (“R”), see step 4 in the discussion under Finding the Front
Locate Point (FLP) beginning on page 50.
In-Ground Calibration
This calibration procedure is rarely needed. If you find it necessary to calibrate with the
transmitter in the ground, contact DCI customer service for information on this option, and
perform this procedure with caution.
If you just completed AGR after calibration, don't forget to turn
Height-Above-Ground (HAG) back on, if necessary.
HAG
Page 21
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View Calibration
Use this feature to check the most recent calibrations for your transmitter(s). The data will
include the model of transmitter, type of calibration (1-point or 2-point), signal strength, and a
timestamp. Though this window lists all transmitters compatible with the Falcon F5 receiver,
only transmitters calibrated to your receiver will display data in the Signal and Timestamp
columns.
View Calibration Window
After calibrating a fluid pressure transmitter, turning the fluid
pressure feature on or off does not require a new calibration.
However, a separate calibration is required for each frequency
band if you want the option of switching between them mid-bore.
Changing Frequency Bands
Page 69
Click to return to the Calibration menu.
Above Ground Range (AGR)
After successfully completing a 1-point calibration, the receiver displays the Above Ground
Range screen, which is an active measurement between the transmitter and receiver. You
can also access this tool directly from the Main menu > Calibration > Above Ground Range
(AGR) . Use this screen along with a tape measure to verify calibration of the transmitter
at different depths/distances. With the transmitter level, the depth readings should be within
±5% of the measured distance.
AGR: It's Just What You Do Page 18
Performing an AGR test on both frequency bands at every jobsite is just good practice.
5
Note that because AGR intentionally does not consider pitch when
calculating range, it displays a symbol indicating "Warning, pitch is
unknown, assume zero". It also ignores any HAG setting.
Pitch Assumed Zero
Page 40
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Use AGR at least daily, and ideally in both frequency bands, to verify proper depth/distance
measurements.
Above Ground Range (AGR)
If you just completed AGR after calibration, don't forget to turn Height-
Above-Ground (HAG) back on, if necessary.
HAG
Page 21
Pitch assumed zero
50 ft. calibration
AGR
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50 Foot Calibration (Optional)
This feature is primarily used for demonstrations of the locating system above ground and is
not necessary for drilling. Above ground range (AGR) measurements beyond 40 ft. often read
shallower (shorter) than they actually are due to variations in ground conditions, and this
feature calibrates these measurements to account for these variations. Using this feature is
substantially similar to the procedure described for 1 pt calibration; if you require further
information, please contact DCI customer service.
Height-Above-Ground (HAG)
Use HAG to set a height measurement on the receiver so you don’t have to set
the receiver on the ground for a depth reading. Raising the receiver above the ground also
provides separation from underground interference, which can reduce the transmitter’s range
or cause variable readings.
To prevent incorrect readings, Falcon F5 always powers on with the
HAG function off (disabled). HAG also automatically shuts off during
calibration and is ignored during an AGR test and Target Steering.
Until you enable HAG, the receiver must be placed on the ground for
accurate depth readings.
Calibration
Page 16
Above Ground
Range (AGR)
Page 19
Depth Units
Page 23
Target
Steering
Page 59
Warning Prior to enabling HAG, verify accurate range/depth readings
at a minimum of two points using AGR or a regular depth
reading (hold the trigger). If the transmitter is not properly
calibrated, inaccurate depth readings will be made worse by
an inaccurate HAG distance.
Above Ground Range (AGR)
Page 19
1. To determine your desired HAG distance, hold the receiver comfortably at your side,
maintaining 8 in. of separation from the front of the receiver to your torso as specified in
the Safety section on page 1. Measure the distance from the bottom of the receiver to the
ground.
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2. From the Main menu, select HAG. The HAG menu displays with Enable HAG highlighted
and the current or 24 in. default HAG setting shown in the description line at the bottom
of the screen. If the HAG had previously been enabled, Disable HAG would be
highlighted.
HAG Menu
3. If the HAG value shown at the bottom of the screen is acceptable, select Enable HAG.
Skip the next step.
4. To change the HAG value shown at the bottom of the screen, select
Set HAG and enter a new value. After you press the execute button on
that screen, the receiver beeps four times and returns to the Main
menu with the new HAG setting enabled.
Using the Keypad
Page 12
Depth readings (holding the trigger) must now be taken with the receiver held at this height.
As noted above, to prevent incorrect readings, HAG must be manually turned on each time
the Falcon F5 receiver is powered on.
I use HAG all the time; can I set it to turn on automatically?
No. In the name of safety, HAG must be turned on manually for each use. However, the
feature does remember the last height value used.
Set HAG
Disable HAG
Enable HAG
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Settings
Use this menu to set the following options:
Settings Menu
DCI recommends that you program the receiver and the remote display Depth and Pitch
settings to use the same units of measure.
Depth Units Menu
Choose between xx" inches, x'xx" feet and inches, x.xx' decimal feet, and x.xx m metric
units (meters and centimeters).
Pitch Units Menu
Choose between percent (x%) and degrees (x°). Typical HDD bores use percent pitch
instead of degrees.
Second
page
Depth Units Pitch Units Date/Time
Telemetry
Channel Roll Offset Pressure
Units
Temperature
Units Language
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Set Time and Calendar Menu
Set the time and date on your receiver. This is necessary when you are using the DataLog
function.
Time and Calendar Keypad
Setting the Time
The time function runs on a 24-hour clock. To set the time:
1. Select the time icon so it is the active function .
2. Enter the time one digit at a time from left to right. For example, to set the clock to 13:39
(1:39 pm), select “1”, then 3, 3, and 9.
3. Select the blue Enter arrow.
Setting the Calendar
The calendar function displays the date by month/day/year. To set the date:
1. Select the calendar icon so it is the active function . The display window on the
keypad changes to show a date format.
2. Enter the date one digit at a time from left to right. The date format is MM/DD/YYYY. For
example, to set the date to January 2, 2016 (01/02/2016), select “0”, then 1, 0, 2, 2, 0, 1,
and 6.
3. Select the blue Enter arrow.
Telemetry Channel Menu
This menu has five telemetry settings (1, 2, 3, 4, and 0). For communication to occur between
the receiver and remote display, both devices must be set to the same telemetry channel.
The current telemetry setting is highlighted when this menu opens.
Select the desired telemetry channel on the receiver. To conserve receiver battery life, select
“0” to turn telemetry off.
Enter arrow
Time value
(date displays here
when calendar is the
active function)
Time
(shown active)
Calendar
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Roll Offset Menu
Use Roll Offset to electronically match the 12:00 position of the transmitter to that of the
drill head.
Enable Roll Offset
1. Select Set and enable the roll offset.
Roll Offset Menu
2. Ensure the drill head is at its 12:00 position and that the transmitter is on.
Set Roll Offset Menu
3. Select Set the roll offset.
If you need to know the original roll value later (perhaps to change a transmitter frequency in-
bore as discussed on page 70), simply toggle to the Roll Offset option in the Settings menu,
and if Roll Offset is enabled, the original roll value displays at the bottom
of the screen after "Roll offset enabled".
When the roll offset function is enabled, the roll indicator will change to a
circle and “RO” appears at the bottom left of the roll indicator.
Disable roll offset
Set and enable
the roll offset
Set the roll offset
Transmitter’s true roll position
with housing at 12:00
Roll Offset Activated
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Disable Roll Offset
To turn off roll offset, select Disable the roll offset from the Roll Offset menu. The receiver
beeps four times as the screen returns to the Settings menu. The value that displays for roll
on the Locate screen will now be that of the transmitter, not necessarily the drill head.
Pressure Units Menu
Choose between pounds per square inch (psi) and kilopascals (kPa).
Temperature Units Menu
Choose between Fahrenheit (F) and Celsius (C).
Language Selection Menu
This menu has multiple language options. Selecting a new language will cause the receiver
to restart.
Transmitter Selection and Frequency Optimization
This section addresses Falcon technology's ground-breaking Frequency Optimizer (FO)
feature, which finds the lowest-noise (optimal) group of frequencies available in each of nine
bands. When the results display in graph form showing the levels of active interference in
each band, choose the one or two bands you want to use, pair, and you're ready to calibrate
and start drilling.
You can switch the transmitter between the two optimized bands at any time, either pre-bore
or mid-bore. Start in the optimized band that works best for the normal-interference portion of
the bore and switch to the other band that works better for the portion that has higher
interference. Or use one optimized band for the whole bore, or start drilling in one optimized
band and switch only if you need to. The choice is yours.
Do I have to optimize every time I power the receiver on? Page 65
No, the receiver remembers both optimized bands until you pair it to a new band. Power
the transmitter on horizontally to use the last active band. But don't forget to optimize at
your next bore.
If my optimized band worked great at my last jobsite, can I keep using it at my next one?
Because sources of interference differ at every jobsite, DCI recommends optimizing at
every job site to obtain the best selection of frequencies for the current conditions.
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Frequency Optimization
To optimize and select a frequency band:
1. Ensure all transmitters are powered off or are more than 100 ft. away from the receiver.
2. Take your receiver to the point along the proposed bore that you expect to have the
greatest amount of noise (active interference).
3. With the receiver parallel to the bore path, open the Main menu, select Transmitter
Selection , then Frequency Optimization (FO) .
The Falcon F5 receiver scans and measures the background noise (active interference)
in multiple frequencies. The display will cycle through each band for about 15 seconds
while it is scanning.
When frequency optimization is complete, the receiver shows active noise readings in
each of the nine frequency bands using an optimized selection of the lowest-noise
frequencies within each band. The shorter the bar on the graph, the less interference
present in that band.
-90 to -72 dB Low interference levels
-72 to -54 dB Moderate interference
-54 to -18 dB Interference will become an issue as depth increases
Frequency Optimizer Results
4. To measure noise readings from the entire intended bore, simply walk the bore with the
frequency optimization results displayed. As the receiver continues sampling background
noise, it marks the maximum noise reading of each band at the top of each bar.
Optimize as often as you want. You can't wear it out.
If noise levels rise substantially at any point along the bore, consider selecting and pairing
one band (see next step) that performed well up to this point. Then select Exit and
restart FO at this point to perform a new scan and select and pair a second band for use
in this higher-interference area. Optimize as often as you want and wherever you want
before assigning a band.
Exit
Band selector
Median kHz of each band
Current optimized noise
readings
Maximum noise reading
Pair
Current Up band
Current Down band
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5. Toggle to the band you want to use and click to select. Typically this will be a band with a
low interference level that did not experience high maximum noise readings along the
bore path.
Band Number
7
11
16
20
25
29
34
38
43
Range in kHz
4.5–9.0
9.0–13.5
13.5–18
18–22.5
22.5–27
27–31.5
31.5–36
36–40.5
40.5–45
6. Select whether to assign this as the Up or Down band (the band the Tx powers on with
when facing Up or Down).
Up Down
Note If the band number you want to use is already displayed at the right edge
of the screen and marked in red on the bottom of the graph, select it
anyway. The band you select now will be optimized with different
frequencies than the last time that band was used.
7. Optional: toggle to select a second band, then assign as the opposite (Up or Down) band;
changing both bands is not required.
8. Select Pair , then Transmitter Pairing Request . If you assigned two new
bands, both will pair at the same time.
9. The receiver displays the transmitter pairing screen. Insert batteries in the
transmitter, install the battery cap, and wait 15 seconds for the transmitter to
fully power on.
Transmitter
Page 64
10. Hold the recessed infrared (IR) port of the transmitter within 2 in. of and facing the IR
window on the front of the receiver.
11. Select again (we really like this icon) to pair the transmitter frequency band(s) to the
receiver.
Hold the transmitter in place for up to ten seconds for pairing. A blue circling icon
indicates the receiver and transmitter are not yet connected; check alignment and
proximity of the IR ports. Moving the transmitter during pairing may cause an error
code to display on the screen; if this happens, simply exit and restart the pairing process.
Transmitter IR port
Battery compartment
"Up"
"Down"
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Can I exit the pairing screen and go back to the optimizer results without running it
again?
Yes. Toggle left and select Return to frequency graph . Maximum readings will be
reset and you can continue observing the noise readings of the last optimized frequency
bands. Exiting from the frequency graph will erase optimization results.
When the pairing is successful, the receiver/transmitter icon briefly shows a happy green
check mark and the receiver beeps. Both the receiver and transmitter are now using the
new optimized band(s) you selected. If you assigned two new bands, the system
defaults to using the Down band first.
If the pairing is unsuccessful, the receiver/transmitter icon shows an unhappy red X.
Select Repeat and try pairing a second time. If still unsuccessful, ensure you
have the correct transmitter selected (page 30), remove and reinstall the transmitter
batteries (positive end first) and battery cap, realign the two IR windows, and try again. If
still unsuccessful, give us a call and we'll get you going.
If the pairing doesn't complete, no new optimized frequency is stored in the receiver.
Upon exiting the Frequency Optimizer screen, the receiver remains paired to the
transmitter at the last optimized bands used. The last frequency optimization is saved
and viewable under View Frequency Optimization .
As mentioned at the end of step 4, the second band can be paired to a completely
different optimization. If you just paired one band but want to re-optimize at a different
location for the other band, simply run the frequency optimizer at the new location
(step 1), select a band, and assign as the opposite (Up or Down) band.
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So I Just Paired, Now What?
After pairing, the receiver proceeds to the calibration screen as a
reminder that with the selection of a new frequency band, the
transmitter and receiver need to be calibrated. Install the transmitter in
the drill head and calibrate.
Prior to calibration, "Calibration required" is indicated on the Locate
screen by an error symbol in the roll indicator in place of the roll value.
To change between bands mid-bore, both bands must be separately
selected and calibrated prior to drilling.
Calibration
Page 16
Calibration Required
Before or during drilling, switch between bands any time if interference
is compromising the current band.
Changing Frequency Bands
Page 69
After pairing optimized frequency bands, for typical operations your
next steps before drilling would be:
calibrate
check Above Ground Range
check for background Interference
Complete each of these checks on both optimized frequency bands.
Above Ground Range (AGR)
Page 19
Interference
Page 43
Transmitter Selection
Use this option to select between a Falcon F5, Falcon F2, or DucTrak transmitter, as well as
select the other band on your current transmitter.
Transmitter Selection Menu
After you select a different transmitter than is currently in use, the display returns to the
previous screen.
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If you select the same transmitter that is currently in use, the display continues to the Band
Selection menu, where you can switch between the Up and Down bands, as well as enable
or disable fluid pressure monitoring on an FT5p transmitter.
Band Selection Menu
To reach this menu directly from the Locate screen, hold the toggle right briefly. Select
to return to the Locate screen.
View Frequency Optimization
Want to see what the active interference is right now on your optimized band? Sure you do.
Select either the Up or Down band icon. Falcon displays the current interference levels for
the current optimized frequencies in that band. You may optionally select and pair a different
optimized band from this screen. If so, remember to calibrate again prior to drilling.
Transmitter Information
Use this option to read the details of your transmitter. It's also a handy to way to double-
check that the receiver is able to communicate (pair) with the transmitter.
Hold the infrared (IR) port of the transmitter within 2 in. of and facing the IR window on the
front of the receiver, then select Transmitter information request . Upon a successful
communication, the receiver provides the following information about the transmitter:
Serial number
Up band
Down band
Current (Amps)
Voltage (V)
Temperature
Maximum temperature attained (lifetime)
Software version
Region (1 – 6)
Up band
Down band
Fluid pressure
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Model number
Click to return to the Main menu.
DataLog
Use this menu to record pilot hole drill data, set up new drill jobs, view and delete drill jobs
from the receiver, and upload drill jobs via Bluetooth to a computer for analysis with DCI's
Log-While-Drilling (LWD) 3.0 software.
Drill DataLog Menus
The LWD software has a variety of options for analyzing, editing, and displaying DataLog drill
data. Complete instructions for using the advanced DataLog feature and the supporting LWD
software are provided in the separate operator's manual and quick start guides available for
DataLog/LWD at www.DigiTrak.com.
If you are already familiar with the DataLog feature, Falcon F5 includes four new functions
requested by users like you: Left/Right Offset, Deviation, Flags, and Pins.
Second
page
Set up job Upload Delete
Enable Survey Pt. View jobs
L/R Offset Deviation Exit
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Flags and Pins, Offset and Deviation
Left/Right Offset
On the DataLog menu, L/R Offset lets you specify a given horizontal distance you intend to
maintain from a feature beside the bore path, such as curb, guardrail, or surveyed path. Think
of this as a "running waypoint" that is recorded as long as the offset is in effect.
In the image above, the offset is a "right" offset, meaning the intended bore path is to the right
of the sidewalk feature.
Deviation
Also on the DataLog menu, Deviation lets you mark how far the drill head is deviating from
the intended bore path. If an offset is in effect, it is how far the drill head is deviating from the
offset.
Each time you log a rod at the Locate screen (hold trigger, toggle right), this feature lets you
also record your current deviation from the bore path. For example, if you know you are
supposed to be a certain distance from a guardrail but locate the drill head at a slightly farther
distance, or are following a surveyed path and locate the drill head slightly to one side of the
path, enter the difference as a left or right deviation.
Set pin marking
fire hydrant
Marked
gas line
Fire
hydrant
Sidewalk
Right offset
Intended
bore path
Actual bore
path
Right deviation
Set flag
marking gas
line crossing
Right pin
distance
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Flags and Pins
While recording a DataLog, at the Locate screen, toggle right to set a Flag or Pin. Match flags
and pins later with entries in your drilling log book to add important detail to your Log-While-
Drilling report.
Flags
Select a Flag when crossing any item of interest along the bore path, like a sidewalk, marked
utility line, or river bank. The receiver internally assigns a sequential flag number starting at 1.
Enter the approximate distance along the current rod; the receiver will calculate the total
horizontal distance of the flag based on the total number of rods already logged.
Pins
Select a Pin to mark the location of a nearby land feature point (survey flag, fire hydrant, light
post) that can help locate the bore path later. Setting a pin requires three pieces of data:
1. An identifying number. Use any number, like a survey station mark.
2. The approximate distance along the current rod (if halfway along a 10 ft. rod, enter 5 ft.).
3. The distance of the drill head to the right or left of the feature (perpendicular). In the
preceding image, because the drill head is to the right of the fire hydrant "feature", the pin
is recorded as to the right.
Diagnostics
This menu lets you check the performance of your F5 receiver.
Diagnostics Menu
Level Check System Self-
Test Signal Self-
Test
Exit
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Perform Level Check
This check confirms that the internal sensors that measure the inclination of the receiver are
working correctly. An inaccurate sensor would cause erroneous depth and location readings.
Place the receiver on generally level ground and click Continue . The ground does not
have to be perfectly level.
Level Test Screen 1
Rotate the receiver 180 degrees so it faces the opposite direction, as illustrated by the icon
on the screen, and click Continue again.
Level Test Screen 2
The receiver beeps four times, flashes a confirmation message, and returns to the Main
menu.
If the level check fails, the receiver beeps twice and displays an error screen. Click Retry
and repeat the test as described above. If the check fails again, contact DCI Customer
Service.
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Perform System Self-Test
This self-test performs a system check on internal components. Ensure no transmitters are
powered on during this test. The receiver beeps four times after a successful test and
displays the Receiver Startup Screen shown on page 11. Click to return to the Diagnostics
menu.
If the receiver returns any other results, contact DCI Customer Service.
Perform Signal Self-Test
This self-test tests antenna gain calibration for all transmitter frequencies. Ensure no
transmitters are powered on during this test. Perform this test only in a low-noise environment
with minimal interference. The transmitter signal strength as displayed on the Locate Screen
on page 39 must be less than 55 counts.
The receiver beeps four times after a successful test and displays the Receiver Startup
Screen shown on page 11. Click to return to the Diagnostics menu.
If the receiver returns any other results, contact DCI Customer Service.
Potential test failures
Background noise
If the test begins in an area with too much background noise, the test stops and the receiver
displays a warning similar to Background signal is too high. Find a lower-noise area and
try the test again.
Test Loop
If there is a problem with the depth antenna in the receiver, the receiver displays the error
message Fault: Depth Antenna Failure on the Locate screen and locks the receiver.
Contact DCI Customer Service.
DSP channel failure
In the event of a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) channel failure, the receiver displays the
error message Critical: DSP channels on the Locate screen and locks the receiver. Contact
DCI Customer Service.
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System Info
This menu displays technical system information such as ID, region, and numerous firmware
versions. The numbers for BT (Bluetooth) and ID (serial number) are necessary to move
DataLog files to a PC. Click to return to the Main menu.
System Info Screens
Bluetooth
Primary software
Serial number
Region
Second page
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Locating Basics
Are you ready? Page 43
If you're new to locating and first want to know everything about the locating screens,
you've come to the right place. If you already know locators and want to jump right in and
start locating with your Falcon F5 system, skip down to Interference.
Locating in a High-Interference Area
This section covers locating basics:
Locating screens
Checking for interference and suggestions for dealing with it
Performing a roll/pitch check
Finding and marking front and rear locate points (FLP and RLP) and the locate line (LL)
to pinpoint the transmitter
The geometry of the FLP, RLP, and LL with respect to the transmitter
Methods to verify depth readings
Refer to the DigiTrak YouTube site at www.youtube.com/dcikent for helpful videos on
these and many other locating topics.
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Locating Screens
The Locate, Depth, and Predicted Depth screens are the primary screens you will use for
locating. The type of depth screen that displays depends on the position of the receiver
relative to the transmitter at the time of the depth reading.
Do I have to know all this? Page 49
Yes. Get this down first, then you'll be ready to locate like a professional. If you want to
skip to Locating the Transmitter and feel like you're missing a little background
information, come back here for a refresher.
For a description of the icons on the Locate screens, see Appendix B.
Locate Screen
The first option in the Main menu is Locate Mode, which displays the Locate screen. The
Locate, Depth, and Predicted Depth screens are the primary screens you will use for locating.
The type of depth screen that displays depends on the position of the receiver relative to the
transmitter at the time of the depth reading.
When the receiver is detecting a signal from a transmitter, the Locate screen provides real-
time data about the transmitter’s location, temperature, pitch, roll, and signal strength.
Locate Screen with Transmitter in Range
If the transmitter is on and there is no roll or pitch data, hold the trigger for 10 seconds to
engage Max mode and the data should appear. If it doesn't:
The transmitter and receiver may not be on the same frequency band. Hold toggle right
at the locate screen to select the other frequency band.
You may have the wrong transmitter model selected, such as FT2 instead of FT5p. From
the Main menu, select Transmitter selection to choose a different transmitter.
Locating target ball
(FLP or RLP)
Transmitter signal
strength
Roll/pitch update
meter
Roll indicator
Transmitter
temperature
Transmitter pitch
Receiver
Transmitter yaw
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How do I check which frequency bands are assigned?
The current band in use is listed at the top of the Main menu (page 14). Hold toggle right
at the Locate screen to see and switch between bands.
The roll/pitch update meter displays the quality of roll/pitch data
being received from the transmitter. When the meter is empty, no
roll/pitch data is being received, and none will appear on either
the receiver or the remote display. Depth and predicted depth
readings may still be taken, but the receiver will assume the
transmitter has a pitch of zero, as indicated by the image to the
right appearing on the Depth or Predicted Depth screen.
Locate Screen Shortcuts
The following shortcuts are available from the Locate screen.
Task
Operation
Page
DataLog (if enabled)
Hold trigger, toggle right
32
Depth Screen
Hold trigger at locate line
40
Flag or Pin during DataLog
Toggle right
34
Receiver Menus
Toggle down
14
Predicted Depth Screen
Hold trigger at front locate point
42
Target Steering
Toggle up
59
Band Selection Menu
Hold toggle right
31
Depth Screen
Hold the trigger with the receiver at the locate line (LL) to display the
Depth screen.
Locate Points (FLP & RLP)
and Locate Line (LL)
Page 46
Depth Screen at LL with HAG On
Height-Above-Ground
(HAG) setting on
Locate line (LL)
Transmitter depth
Bird's-eye view
Tx battery strength
Locate point
(front or rear)
Ground level
Pitch Assumed Zero
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When the HAG setting is disabled, the receiver will be shown on the ground and
must be placed on the ground during depth readings.
Height-Above-
Ground (HAG)
Page 21
Max Mode Noise Filtering
The purpose of Max mode noise filtering is to stabilize erratic roll/pitch data, depths, and
locates when drilling at the very limit of the ability of the transmitter due to extreme depth or
interference, which will vary by jobsite.
When the roll/pitch update meter shows low signal level or data is erratic, hold the
trigger for longer than five seconds to enter Max mode, indicated by a magnifying glass
around the pitch icon.
Depth Screen in Max Mode
Max mode replaces the roll/pitch update meter with the Max mode timer. As you hold the
trigger and Max mode gathers data readings, the timer slowly fills up with a red bar. Greater
interference or deeper bores will require a higher number of readings before roll/pitch data
displays, or may prevent data from displaying altogether. If the timer is full and data is not yet
stable, release the trigger, move to a different location near the drill head, and hold more than
five seconds to restart. The timer bar will turn green as data is confirmed.
Always take three Max readings; all three readings must be identical and stabilize before the
Max mode timer is full.
Warning The drill head must be stationary when taking readings using Max
mode. If the drill head is moving, data readings will not be
accurate.
Due to the nature of the extreme depth and/or high-interference
environment where use of Max mode will typically occur, the risk of
obtaining unreliable data is higher. Never rely on data that does not
display quickly and remain stable. Max mode is never a substitute for
prudent operator judgment.
Max mode icon
Max mode timer
Depth
Tx battery strength
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Predicted Depth Screen
Warning Because both front and rear locate points appear identical to
the receiver, an invalid depth prediction can be generated
when the receiver is over the rear locate point (RLP). Only a
depth reading at the front locate point (FLP) produces a valid
predicted depth.
Locate Points (FLP & RLP)
and Locate Line (LL)
Page 46
Hold the trigger at the front locate point (FLP) to display the Predicted Depth screen. The
predicted depth is the depth the transmitter is calculated to be at when it reaches the front
locate point if it continues on its current path.
Predicted Depth Screen at FLP with HAG On
Hold the trigger for longer than five seconds to enter Max mode, as described in the previous
section (use of Max mode has special requirements and restrictions). In this example, if the
drill head travels an additional 3'08" at -0.6 pitch, it will be directly below the locator at 2'08".
Ball-in-the-Box™
at FLP
Reference Lock
indicator
Predicted depth
of transmitter
Horizontal distance
between transmitter
and FLP
Tx battery strength
HAG on
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Depth Screen, Invalid Location
Hold the trigger at any time during locating to display the Depth screen. No depth or
predicted depth will appear if the receiver is not positioned at the locate line or front or
rear locate point. However, holding the trigger more than five seconds to enter Max
mode may obtain more stable roll/pitch data (use of Max mode has special
requirements and restrictions).
Max Mode
Page 41
Receiver Depth Screen with HAG Enabled (not at FLP, RLP, or LL)
Interference
Interference can compromise a transmitter's signal even when drilling with an optimized
frequency band. It is important to the success of your bore that, after pairing your transmitter
at a newly optimized frequency, you check how the transmitter's signal will perform along the
intended bore path.
Warning To best overcome interference, find and deal with it above ground,
before you start drilling.
What is Interference?
Interference can reduce the transmitter’s range or cause variable readings and possibly result
in job slowdowns. Interference is classified as either active or passive.
Active interference, also known as electrical interference or background noise, can have
varying effects on locating equipment. Most electrical devices emit signals that can inhibit the
ability to locate the transmitter accurately or get good roll/pitch readings. Examples sources
of active interference include traffic signal loops, buried dog fences, cathodic protection, radio
communications, microwave towers, cable TV, fiber-trace lines, utility data transmissions,
security systems, power lines, and phone lines. Interference at the remote display may also
occur from other sources operating nearby on the same frequency. The following section
describes how to use the receiver to test for the presence of active interference.
Passive interference can reduce or increase the amount of signal received from the
transmitter, which results in incorrect depth readings, a completely blocked signal, or locates
in the wrong position. Example sources of passive interference include metal objects such as
pipes, rebar, trench plate, chain-link fence, vehicles, saltwater/salt domes, and conductive
earth such as iron ore. The receiver cannot test for the presence of passive interference.
Slanted line indicates
receiver is not at
FLP, RLP, or LL
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Conducting a thorough site investigation prior to drilling is the best method of identifying
passive interference sources.
To familiarize yourself with the interference potential along your intended bore path, check for
background noise as discussed in the following section.
Warning A receiver cannot detect sources of passive interference; this can only
be accomplished with a visual inspection of the jobsite. A background
noise check can only find active interference.
I thought the frequency optimizer did all this for me?
The frequency optimizer finds the lowest-noise frequencies to use in each band. You
choose which bands to use and pair the transmitter. As best practice, now test those
bands above ground to ensure the receiver can receive data for the entire length of the
bore. A good background noise check is vital to a job free of interference surprises.
Checking for Interference
Ensure the receiver is on, optimized, and paired. Remove the batteries from the transmitter to
turn it off and wait 10 seconds for it to fully power off. Now walk the intended bore path while
viewing the current frequency optimization in the frequency band you intend to drill with. Take
note of the bar graph height in the selected band. With no transmitter on, this “signal
strength” is in fact background noise (active interference). Extreme background noise
(interference) may cause signal attenuation.
In the following figure, the red flag area denotes an increase in background noise detected on
the optimized band while walking the intended bore path.
One-Person Background Signal Strength Check (Transmitter Off)
Return to the area of highest interference (between the red flags above) and from the Locate
screen, take a depth reading (hold the trigger) and note the signal strength. Now power on
the transmitter and place it the same distance to the side of the receiver as the intended bore
depth. Verify that the roll/pitch data is consistent and correct in the flagged area. The
transmitter’s signal strength should generally be a minimum of 150 points greater than the
background noise reading. For example, if this area of greatest interference produced a
LL
Intended bore path
Background noise signal
Red flag area
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reading of 175, the reading with the transmitter on at this location, and at a distance from the
receiver equal to the maximum intended bore depth, should be a minimum of 325 (175 +
150).
Areas where the background noise level is too high may make it difficult to obtain roll and
pitch data and accurate locates and depth readings. If the signal strength readings with the
transmitter on were not at least 150 points greater than the background noise level, conduct a
roll/pitch check as described in the following section.
Note that the transmitter’s signal strength will be slightly higher in this test than while drilling
because it is currently not encased in the drill head below ground, which will diminish the
signal strength slightly.
Roll/Pitch Check
At the exit of the bore, turn the receiver to face the entry and install batteries in the
paired transmitter to turn it on. Have a coworker hold the transmitter and stand beside
you. Walk together in parallel back toward the entry, keeping the receiver over the
bore path and the transmitter at a distance of 1 to 1.5 times the current intended bore
depth; where the bore is deeper, your coworker will be farther away. Periodically stop
and change the transmitter’s roll and pitch orientation so you can verify the speed and
accuracy of these readings on the receiver. It is good practice to also have a
coworker monitor the readings at the remote display at the same time. Note any
locations where the receiver or remote display information becomes erratic or
disappears. If roll/pitch data or signal strength become unstable, hold the trigger to
see if Max mode can stabilize the data.
Max Mode
Page 41
Two-Person Roll/Pitch Test with Transmitter
If the desired depth/data range in a red flag area is not sufficient, you may able to increase
the range by performing another frequency optimization here and pairing to a new band
specifically for use in this high-interference location. If you do this, check for interference in
the high-interference area again using the newly-optimized band. Use the other optimized
band (Up or Down) for the non-flagged portion of the bore.
Intended bore path
Intended
depth
Red flag area
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Suggestions for Dealing with Interference
If roll/pitch information becomes erratic or is lost while drilling or during a roll/pitch check (see
previous section), try one or more of the following:
Try Max mode.
Max Mode
Page 41
Move the receiver away from the interference source while staying
within range of the transmitter.
Off-Track Locating
Page 57
Physically separate the receiver from both passive and active
interference to reduce or eliminate interference-related problems.
Height-Above-Ground (HAG)
Page 21
Switch to the transmitter's other frequency band.
Changing Frequency Bands
Page 69
To overcome interference at the remote display, ensure the telemetry
antenna is vertical and that the front of the receiver is facing the
remote display. Set the receiver and remote display to use a different
telemetry channel. An optional extended-range telemetry antenna may
help overcome some forms of interference.
Never rely on the receiver as the sole means of communication between the receiver
operator and drill operator. In cases where data is not available on the remote display, both
operators must be able to communicate with each other.
Warning In environments with extreme interference, the Falcon signal strength
on the receiver may begin to flash red along with a flashing red A
(Attenuation) at the top right of the roll indicator. This will also happen
when the locator is too close to the transmitter (less than two ft.). Any
depth, data, or locate information obtained when signal attenuation is in
effect should be considered an estimate.
Locate Points (FLP & RLP) and Locate Line (LL)
The Falcon F5 receiver locates the transmitter by detecting three specific places in the
transmitter’s magnetic field: the front locate point (FLP) ahead of the transmitter, the rear
locate point (RLP) behind the transmitter, and the locate line above the transmitter itself. The
locate points are indistinguishable from one another by the receiver as they represent similar
points in the transmitter’s field in front of and behind the transmitter (see Appendix C on
page 77 for more information about the transmitter’s magnetic field).
The locate line (LL) extends 90° to the left and right of the transmitter (perpendicular) when
the transmitter is at 0% pitch. It represents the location of the transmitter between the FLP
and RLP. If you think of the transmitter being the body of an airplane, its wings are the locate
line.
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Locate line does not equal the location of the transmitter
Being over the locate line does not mean you are over the transmitter, which may be to
the left or right anywhere along the locate line. You must find the front and rear locate
points to find the transmitter, as is detailed on the next couple pages.
The most accurate tracking requires the use of all three locations to determine the position,
heading, and depth of the transmitter. A line passing through the FLP and RLP reveals the
heading and left/right position of the transmitter. The LL determines the position of the
transmitter when the receiver is properly aligned between the FLP and RLP (on the line).
Geometry of FLP, RLP, and LL from Top (Bird’s-Eye) and Side Views
Note how the RLP and FLP are equal distances from the LL when the transmitter is level.
The line marked LL in the bird’s-eye view image suggests the receiver will display a locate
line any time it is positioned on this plane. To prevent inaccurate locates and potentially
dangerous conditions, it is imperative to first find the front and rear locate points. Do not rely
on the peak signal along the locate line.
Note Whenever the transmitter is pitched, the position of the locate line will be
somewhat slightly ahead of or behind the transmitter’s actual position.
This slight fore/aft offset will increase with depth (see Appendix C). In
these cases, the depth displayed on the receiver is referred to as the
projected depth.
RLP
LL
FLP
Surface of
ground
Drill rig
Bore path
70°
RLP
FLP
Drill rig
Bore path
Transmitter
Bird's-eye view
(looking down)
Side view
LL
Transmitter
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Effects of Depth, Pitch, and Topography on Distance Between FLP and RLP
The deeper the transmitter is, the farther apart the FLP and RLP will be. The distance
between the FLP and RLP with respect to the location of the LL is also affected by transmitter
pitch and the topography.
When the transmitter pitch is negative, the FLP will be farther from the LL than the RLP.
When the pitch is positive, the RLP will be further from the LL than the FLP. If the ground
surface or topography slopes significantly, the locations of the FLP and RLP will also be
affected with respect to the LL even if the transmitter itself is level.
Effect of Pitch on Distance Between FLP, RLP, and LL
For a detailed explanation of how to track the transmitter when it is steep and deep, read the
information provided in Appendix C: Projected Depth Versus Actual Depth and the Fore/Aft
Offset on page 77.
To calculate depth (for comparison to the receiver’s depth reading) using the distance
between the locate points and the pitch of the transmitter, see Appendix D: Calculating Depth
Based on Distance Between FLP and RLP on page 82.
RLP
LL
FLP
Surface of
ground
Drill rig
Bore path
Transmitter at
negative pitch
30°
RLP
FLP
Drill rig
Bore path
Transmitter
Bird's-eye view
(looking down)
Side view
LL
40°
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Marking Locate Points
The locate points (FLP and RLP) and the locate line (LL) must be found and accurately
marked during the locating procedure. To mark a locate point, stand with the receiver level at
the locate point. Look down the vertical axis that runs through the center of the display to
project a plumb line to the ground. Mark where this plumb line hits the ground.
Plumb Line for Marking Locate Points
Locating the Transmitter
Falcon F5 can locate the transmitter and its heading while it moves, whether in front of the
transmitter, behind it, or beside it. It can locate the transmitter while facing toward or away
from the drill rig.
The standard method described in this section guides the receiver to the transmitter while
standing in front of it, facing the drill rig. This is the recommended method for locating. As you
continue to drill or as the bore path curves, you may be facing the last marked locate point
rather than the drill rig.
Standard Locating
Curved Path Locating
Plumb line or
vertical axis
Center of display
Front of
receiver
Place marker straight
down on ground
Move
forward
FLP
LL
RLP
RLP
LL
FLP
Move
forward
Drill
Drill
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If necessary, set Height-Above-Ground (HAG) and
Roll Offset.
Height-Above-Ground (HAG) Roll Offset
Page 21 Page 25
Go watch some TV
You can find a training video on Basic Locating at www.youtube.com/dcikent.
Finding the Front Locate Point (FLP)
The locating procedure described here assumes that (a) you are facing the drill, (b) the
transmitter is below ground and between you and the drill, and (c) the FLP is in front of you.
1. With the receiver on and in Locate mode, stand in front of the drill head at a distance of
approximately the depth of the drill head.
2. Observe the position of the locating ball ( ) relative to the receiver box on the display.
The figures below show the FLP ahead of and to the left of the receiver; as the drill head
gets deeper, the FLP will be found farther in front of the transmitter.
Receiver Locate Screen
Actual Position of Receiver
and Transmitter
3. Move the receiver to guide the ball into the box.
Locating
“target” ball
“Box”
Drill
rig
Bore
path
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4. When the ball is centered in the box (Ball-in-the-Box™), hold the trigger for at least one
second so the receiver can “lock” onto the reference signal. The “R” symbol will appear at
the top of the Depth screen. The locate line (LL) will not display later without this
reference.
Receiver Predicted Depth Screen
at FLP with HAG On
Actual Position of Receiver
and Transmitter
Warning When setting a reference signal, do not hold the trigger unless you
are Ball-in-the-Box™ at the FLP. If you are ahead of the FLP, you
could set an incorrect reference that causes a ghost locate line.
This typically happens when the head is shallower than 3 ft. In this
case, you must reference again at the FLP.
If you hold the trigger for longer than five seconds, the receiver will
enter Max mode, which performs differently than a normal depth
reading.
Reference Lock
Page 51
Max Mode
Page 41
The depth value given at the FLP is the predicted depth, which is the depth the
transmitter is calculated to be at when it reaches the location beneath the receiver. If the
pitch or heading of the transmitter changes before it reaches the location under the
receiver, the predicted depth reading will no longer be accurate.
Quick receiver self-check
To verify that the signal is balanced through the receiver’s antenna, carefully rotate the
receiver 360° about the center of the display while keeping the receiver level. The
locating ball should stay centered in the box. If it does not, do not continue to use the
receiver and contact DCI Customer Service.
5. With the ball centered in the box, mark the ground directly below the receiver’s display
screen as the FLP.
Target Ball-in-
the-Box™
Reference lock
indicator
Drill
rig
Bore
path
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Finding the Locate Line (LL)
6. Continue walking toward the drill rig or the last known transmitter location. Keep the
locating ball on the vertical crosshair and observe that the signal strength is increasing as
you get closer to the transmitter.
Receiver Locate Screen, Moving Toward LL, FLP Behind
If the signal strength decreases, you may actually have just located the RLP. Position
yourself farther away from the drill and start over at step 2.
7. When the locating ball reaches the bottom of the screen, the locate line appears and the
ball turns solid black to indicate your focus should now be on the LL.
If the locate line does not appear and the ball flips to the top of the screen, hold the
trigger while moving the receiver in a forward/backward direction over where the ball flips.
This action should re-reference the receiver to the transmitter’s signal and bring up the
locate line. If it does not, return to the FLP to re-reference (see step 1).
Receiver Locate Screen, Approaching LL
Actual Position of Receiver
and Transmitter
Do not rely on the alignment of the ball with the vertical crosshair to identify the left/right
position of the transmitter. Accurately locating the front and rear locate points is required
to determine the transmitter’s lateral position (heading) and take accurate depth readings.
Signal strength
higher than at FLP
Locating ball
moving along
vertical crosshair
Drill
rig
Bore
path
Locate line
Locating ball
Drill
rig
Bore
path
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8. Position the receiver so the LL aligns with the horizontal crosshair.
Receiver Locate Screen at the LL
Actual Position of Receiver
and Transmitter
9. Take a depth reading and mark the LL directly below the receiver’s display screen. If the
FLP is to the left or right of the previous marks—indicating some steering action—locate
the RLP as described in the next steps to verify proper positioning of the LL between the
Locate Points.
If the bore path is straight, do I have to keep finding the RLP for every rod?
No. If a new FLP is directly in line with the previously marked FLPs (a straight bore line), it is
unnecessary to find a new RLP since it will be directly in line with the previous marks. After the drill
head moves forward another rod, find the new FLP and then the LL.
Line-in-the-Box
Drill
rig
Bore
path
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Finding the RLP to Confirm Transmitter Heading and Position
Finding the RLP will allow you to confirm the transmitter’s heading and position. Like the FLP,
the RLP is represented as a ball ( ) on the receiver display.
Continue locating:
10. From the LL, facing toward the drill or last transmitter location, walk forward while
keeping the ball aligned on the vertical crosshairs. Notice how the signal strength
decreases as you move away from the transmitter.
Receiver Locate Screen,
Approaching RLP from LL
Actual Position of Receiver
and Transmitter
11. Position the receiver so the ball is centered in the box (Ball-in-the-Box™).
Receiver Locate Screen at RLP
Actual Position of Receiver
and Transmitter
12. Mark the ground directly below the receiver’s display screen as the RLP. A line between
the RLP and FLP represents the transmitter’s heading.
Drill
rig
Bore
path
Drill
rig
Bore
path
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13. Position the receiver at the intersection of this heading line with the LL passing through
the center of the box on the display and hold the trigger to take a depth reading. This is
the current location of the transmitter.
Receiver Depth Screen at LL
Actual Position of Receiver
and Transmitter
Three Methods to Verify Depth Reading
Disable HAG, set the receiver on the ground, and take another depth reading. This
reading should be within 5% of the depth reading obtained with the HAG on and the
receiver lifted. In the prior example, the reading should be 11 ft. 6 in.
or
With HAG on, set the receiver on the ground and add the HAG to the depth shown. It
should also be 11 ft. 6 in.
or
If HAG is not being used, note the depth on the ground and then raise the receiver
exactly 3 ft. The depth reading should increase this same distance. In the example
above, the depth would be 14 ft. 6 in.
See Appendix C on page 77 and Appendix D on page 82 for more information on depth.
With LL aligned
in box, receiver
may face
toward RLP or
FLP during
depth readings
HAG on
Corrected depth
Drill
rig
Bore
path
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Advanced Locating
When you're ready to push the envelope
Here are some techniques that will help you drill more productively and get past the bore
that had everyone else scratching their heads and calling the home office.
Tracking “On-the-Fly”
Go watch some TV
You can find a training video on Tracking on the Fly at www.youtube.com/dcikent.
If you are running at 0% (0°) pitch under level ground, the predicted depth will be the actual
depth. In this case, all locating can be done at the FLP while the drill head is moving.
Once the transmitter has been located and it is moving in the correct
direction, place the receiver relatively level on the ground one rod
length in front of the FLP, in line with the path created by the FLP and
RLP. Turn HAG off.
Height-Above-Ground (HAG)
Page 21
Tracking "On-the-Fly"
with a Straight Path
Tracking "On-the-Fly"
with a Curved Path
FLP
LL
RLP
RLP
LL
FLP
One rod
length
One rod
length
Drill
Drill
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As the drill head advances, the FLP should travel along the receiver’s vertical crosshairs,
indicating the drill head is still on line. Once the FLP is in the box, hold the trigger and confirm
that the predicted depth reading is as expected.
Receiver Screen Tracking "On-the-Fly"
Actual Position of Receiver
and Transmitter
Move ahead the length of another drill rod and wait for the FLP to continue advancing down
the vertical crosshair.
Drill
rig
Bore
path
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Off-Track Locating
Go watch some TV
You can find a training video on Off-Track Locating at www.youtube.com/dcikent.
Use off-track locating when it is not possible to walk above the transmitter due to a surface
obstruction or interference. Using the locate line’s perpendicular relationship to the
transmitter, it is possible to track the transmitter’s heading and also determine if it is
maintaining its intended depth. The off-track locating method is only effective when the pitch
of the transmitter is 0% (0°) and traveling under flat ground.
To explain how the off-track locating method works, consider the example of an obstruction
that is on the intended bore path, as shown in the figure below. The transmitter is about to go
under the obstruction.
1. Stop drilling and find the locate line (LL) of the transmitter by putting the line in the box.
2. While holding the receiver in the same orientation, step to the side until you reach a
predetermined distance (P1). Move the receiver forward and backward until the ball
jumps between the top and bottom of the screen, then mark this location and note the
signal strength. While still holding the receiver in the same orientation, do this two more
times for off-track points P2 and P3.
Preparing for Off-Track Locating
3. Connect points P1, P2, and P3 with a line. This is the locate line. Because the LL runs
perpendicular (at a 90° angle) to the transmitter when the transmitter is level, you can
determine the heading of the drill head. By comparing the signal strength at the
Bore path
Obstruction
Predetermined
distances
P1 P2 P3
LL
Drill
Path around
obstruction
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predetermined distances of P1, P2, and P3, as the drill head progresses, you can verify it
is moving away from or maintaining the intended bore path. It is important to monitor the
pitch of the transmitter to ensure the drill head is maintaining the desired depth.
4. As drilling continues, steer the drill head to maintain a constant signal strength at each of
the points P1, P2, and P3. If the signal strength decreases, the drill head is moving away;
if it increases, the drill head is moving toward the side position.
Differences in pitch and topology elevations will also affect the signal strength and LL
position as the drill head progresses. Using three (or more) off-track points gives you
more information to help recognize the potential adverse effects of interference at any
one point.
Off-Track Locating
Target Steering
The Target Steering locating method allows the receiver to be placed ahead of the drill head
and used as a steering target.
In general, Target Steering should be used to maintain a bore path, not
to bring a significantly off-course bore back on track. If needed, use front
and rear locate methods to get back on course.
Locate Points (FLP &
RLP) and Locate Line (LL)
Page 46
In situations with significant pitch changes, such as during the entry/exit or areas with
changing topography and elevations, the up/down steering information on the remote display
may not be accurate. In these situations, only the left/right steering information should be
considered accurate.
Bore path
Predetermined
distances
P1 P2 P3
LL
Drill
Path around
obstruction
Obstruction
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Note After learning the concepts of Target Steering, practice its use before
using on a jobsite where time and money are at a premium. If you need
further assistance, please contact DCI Customer Service.
Go watch some TV
You can find a training animation on Target Steering at www.youtube.com/dcikent.
Using the receiver for Target Steering requires a stable signal from the transmitter.
Target Steering will not work properly with passive interference in the
vicinity of the bore.
Interference
Page 43
Feasible Target Steering Area
The maximum distance the receiver can be placed ahead of the drill head for Target Steering
is 35 ft. Beyond this distance, depth information becomes less accurate. Within this range,
starting with the drill head approximately level, the following parameters apply to depth data:
The maximum depth change is approximately 4 ft.
The maximum pitch change is approximately 14%.
For the most conservative Target Steering operation, assume the ideal drill path is a circular
arc with a radius that accommodates the bend radius of most drill strings and products being
installed. As shown in the diagram below, the feasible steering area is limited to the shaded
region bounded by the two circular arcs.
Feasible Target Steering Area
The Target Steering procedure requires correct placement of the receiver at less than 35 ft. in
front of the transmitter, on the bore path, with its back end (where the battery pack is
inserted) facing the drill.
Current
depth
Transmitter
Surface of ground
Horizontal distance
35 ft. max
Target
Target
Feasible target
steering area
Minimum
target
depth
Maximum
target
depth
Depth change
4 ft. max
Depth change
4 ft. max
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Turning Target Steering On
The target depth is the depth at which you want the transmitter when it reaches the location
under the receiver. To set the desired target depth on the receiver, toggle up at the Locate
screen to open the Target Steering menu.
Target Steering Menu
The Target Steering menu displays either the last set target depth or the 1.5 ft. default value.
To use the displayed value as the desired target depth, click the trigger.
To enter a new target depth, select the keypad, enter the value in the appropriate units,
and select Enter .
Positioning the Receiver as the Target
Setting a target depth on the receiver activates Target Steering, and the Locate screen on the
receiver now displays depth and distance from transmitter to receiver. The remote display on
the drill automatically changes to Target Steering mode.
Target Steering Locate Screen on the Receiver (with pressure data)
Programmed target depth
Transmitter in ground
pointing toward target
below receiver
Turn on programmed
target depth
Program new
target depth
Receiver
Transmitter temperature
Approximate
transmitter depth
Transmitter pitch
Locating target (FLP)
Roll/pitch
update meter
Roll indicator
Horizontal distance between
transmitter and receiver
Fluid pressure
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Ensure that the location you would like to steer to beneath the
receiver is feasible for the bend radius of the drill string and product
being installed.
Feasible Target Steering Area
Page 60
Place the receiver on the intended drill path beyond the FLP but within 35 ft. of the transmitter
with its back end (battery pack) facing the transmitter's current location. Position the receiver
with the understanding that Target Steering is designed to ensure the transmitter is
perpendicular to the rear of the receiver by the time the drill head reaches the target beneath
the receiver.
Positioning the Receiver for Target Steering
Note Depths are calculated based on the bottom of the receiver. The HAG
value is still used in Target Steering mode when taking a depth at the
Locate Line (LL) or Front Locate Point (FLP).
Steering to the Target with the Remote Display
Refer to the operator's manual for your remote display for details on its Target Steering or
Remote Steering screen. Manuals are located on the flash drive that accompanied the
equipment or online at www.DigiTrak.com.
Target Steering in Interference Areas
Warning Interference can cause inaccuracies in the measurement of depth and
placement of the locating ball, and loss of the transmitter’s pitch, roll,
or heading.
In areas of passive and/or active interference, it may help to physically elevate the receiver
above the ground. If raising the receiver above the ground, adjust the target depth to include
the elevated height.
35 ft.
max
Drill
FLP
LL
RLP
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Turn Target Steering Off
To turn off Target Steering on the receiver, toggle down from the Target Steering screen to
return to the Locate screen. The receiver will now no longer act as a steering target. This also
causes the remote display to exit Target Steering mode.
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Transmitter
A transmitter generates a magnetic field detected by the Falcon F5 receiver. The transmitter
and receiver must have matching regional designation numbers to communicate with each
other and comply with local operating requirements. The transmitter’s regional designation
number is located inside the globe icon ( ) near the serial number. The transmitter must be
paired to the receiver prior to use.
The Falcon F5 wideband transmitter provides pitch readings in as low as 0.1% or 0.1°
increments at level and displays roll in 24 clock positions (CP) with fluid pressure. The
transmitter broadcasts in nine bands encompassing frequencies from 4.5 to 45.0 kHz.
Falcon F5 Wideband Transmitter with Fluid Pressure (BTP)
Calibration is required prior to first-time use and before using a different
transmitter, receiver, drill head, or transmitter band. Calibration is not
necessary, however, when switching between bands on a transmitter that
are already paired and calibrated.
Calibration
Page 16
A detailed pitch resolution table is located in Appendix A.
Can I use other DigiTrak transmitters with my Falcon?
No. The technology behind Falcon's use of multiple optimized frequencies requires a
DigiTrak Falcon F5, Falcon F2, or DucTrak transmitter.
Can I use DigiTrak transmitters rebuilt by other companies?
DCI recommends avoiding the use of "repaired" or "rebuilt" transmitters for any reason.
Untrained technicians, poor quality of workmanship, and the re-use of stressed
electronic components introduces unnecessary risk to your project that far outweighs
any perceived short-term cost savings. DigiTrak Falcon transmitters incorporate recent
advances in architecture and durability that provide an even longer expected lifetime
under typical conditions.
Battery compartment
Front end cap with temp dot, and
index slot, and fluid ports
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Batteries and Power On/Off
DigiTrak Falcon F5 wideband transmitters require two C-cell alkaline batteries or one DCI
SuperCell™ lithium battery providing a maximum of 3.6 VDC. Alkaline batteries will last up to
20 hours, whereas a SuperCell battery will last up to 70 hours. The 19 in. BTPL transmitter
requires use of a SuperCell battery due to its greater power requirements.
Warning Never use damaged or non-DCI lithium batteries. Never use two C-cell lithium
batteries providing a combined voltage above 3.6 VDC.
DCI SuperCell lithium batteries are manufactured to military specifications. The
use of damaged or lower-quality lithium batteries may damage the transmitter
and/or housing and will void the DCI warranty.
Installing Batteries / Power On
DCI transmitters power on as soon as the batteries and battery cap are properly installed. To
install the batteries:
1. Remove the battery cap from the transmitter using a large slotted screwdriver or coin and
rotating the cap counterclockwise.
2. Insert the battery or batteries into the transmitter with the positive terminals first. When
using two C-cell batteries, include the battery contact spring that came with the
transmitter as shown below:
C-Cell Batteries Installed with Battery Contact Spring
Note Do NOT use the battery contact spring at either end of a single SuperCell™
battery.
Battery contact spring
Battery cap
Battery
Battery
Housing
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3. Select the startup frequency of the transmitter by installing the batteries with the
transmitter pointing either up or down:
Load batteries
with transmitter
pointing
UP
to power on in
the last Up
optimized band
Load batteries
with transmitter
pointing
DOWN
to power on in
the last Down
optimized band
Selecting the Startup Frequency of the Transmitter
To power on the transmitter in the last band used, install the batteries with the transmitter
horizontal.
4. Replace the battery cap and maintain orientation for at least 10 seconds for the
transmitter to fully power on.
Starting the frequency optimizer will not change the transmitter's optimized frequency bands
until the receiver and transmitter are paired. Once paired, the transmitter automatically begins
using the new optimized frequency band. With two new bands, the system defaults to using
the Down band first.
Transmitter Battery Strength
The battery strength icon at the bottom of the receiver’s Depth screen indicates
the battery life remaining for alkaline batteries.
Warning Because the battery strength for a SuperCell battery will appear full until just before
it is fully depleted, you must track its hours of use.
Sleep Mode
All battery-powered DigiTrak transmitters go into sleep mode and stop transmitting to
conserve battery power if they are stationary for longer than 15 minutes. To wake the
transmitter, rotate the drill string a half turn; a transmitter will not awaken if it lands on the
same roll position at which it went to sleep.
1.5 V 1.5 V
SuperCell 3.6 V
1.5 V 1.5 V
SuperCell 3.6 V
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A small amount of charge will continue to drain from the batteries while the transmitter is in
sleep mode so it can monitor roll position. To conserve battery life, do not leave batteries in
the transmitter when they can be easily removed. Always remove batteries when the
transmitter is not being used to turn it off.
Note A transmitter will continue sending data for up to 10 seconds after the
batteries are removed. If you have removed the batteries and intend to
restart the transmitter in another frequency, wait until data has stopped
displaying on the receiver before reinstalling the batteries.
Transmitter Drill Head Requirements
For maximum transmitter range and battery life, the slots in the drill head must meet
minimum length and width requirements and be correctly positioned. DCI's transmitters
require three slots equally spaced around the circumference of the drill head for optimal
signal emission and maximum battery life. Measure slot lengths on the inside of the drill
head; slots must be at least 1/16 in. wide. DCI transmitters fit standard housings but may
require a battery cap adapter in some cases.
A Minimum
B Maximum*
C
Falcon F5 Wideband BTP
9.0 in.*
1.0 in.
15 in.
Falcon F5 Wideband BTPL
13.0 in.
1.0 in.
19 in.
* Ideal measurement. The DCI standard slot length of 8.5 in. and B distance of 2 in.
remain acceptable.
A transmitter must fit snugly in its drill head. It may be necessary to wrap the transmitter with
tape or O-rings and/or use a drill head adapter for larger drill heads. Contact DCI Customer
Service for more information.
The index slot in the front end cap of the transmitter should fit onto the anti-roll
pin (key) in the drill head for proper alignment. Use roll offset if the transmitter’s
12:00 position does not match that of the drill head.
Roll Offset
Page 25
Use only the battery cap that accompanied the Falcon F5 transmitter; other battery caps may
look similar but crush the batteries or make the transmitter too long to fit in a standard
housing.
Slot position
A - slot length
B
C - transmitter length
Front end cap
Battery cap
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Temperature Status and Overheat Indicator
All DigiTrak transmitters are equipped with an internal digital thermometer. The temperature
displays on the bottom right of the receiver and remote display screens next to the transmitter
temperature symbol . Normal drilling temperatures range from 64 to 104° F. Suspend
drilling when temperatures exceed 97° F to permit cooling.
A small triangle beside the temperature icon indicates whether the temperature is trending
up or down since the last reading.
Note Because the digital thermometer is inside the transmitter, temperature increases
due to external drilling conditions will take time to transfer to the transmitter.
Resolve increases in temperature quickly to avoid irreversible damage.
If the temperature reaches 118° F, the thermometer icon will change to show that the
transmitter is becoming dangerously hot . The transmitter must be allowed to cool
immediately or it will be damaged.
To cool the transmitter, stop drilling and retract the drill bit a few feet and/or add more drilling
fluid.
Transmitter Temperature Warning Tones
The Falcon F5 receiver and remote display emit the following audible tones to indicate
increases in the transmitter temperature:
Icon
Temperature
Warning Tones
Below 61° F
None
61–97° F
Double-beep sequence (beep-beep) for every 7° F increase in
temperature.
104–111° F
Two double-beep sequences (beep-beep, beep-beep) for every
7° F increase in temperature. Action is required to cool the
transmitter.
118–133° F
Three double-beep sequences (beep-beep, beep-beep, beep-
beep) for every 7° F increase in temperature. Cooling is critical to
avoid irreversible damage.
flashing
Above 140° F
Three double-beep sequences every 5 seconds on the remote
display, and every 20 seconds on the receiver. This warning
signifies dangerous drilling conditions; irreversible damage may
have already been done to the transmitter.
220° F
None: transmitter overheat indicator (temp dot) turns black.
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Transmitter Overheat Indicator (Temp Dot)
Each transmitter has a temperature overheat indicator (temp dot) on the front end cap. The
temp dot has an outer yellow ring with a 1/8 in. white dot in the center.
Transmitter Temp Dot
If the temp dot changes to silver or gray, the transmitter has been exposed to heat but not in
excess of specifications. If the temp dot is black, the transmitter has been exposed to
excessive temperatures and can no longer be used. The DCI warranty does not cover any
transmitter that has been overheated (black dot) or had its temp dot removed.
Avoid transmitter overheating by practicing proper drilling techniques. Abrasive soils, clogged
jets, inadequate mud flow, and improperly mixed mud all contribute significantly to the over-
heating of a transmitter.
The Falcon transmitter stores the maximum temperature, which you
can view using the Transmitter Info function. Note that the external
temp dot can reach 220° F and turn black before the internal
temperature reaches 220° F.
Transmitter Information
Page 31
Changing Frequency Bands
With the receiver at the Locate screen, hold toggle right to open the
Band Selection menu, where you can switch between the Up and Down
frequency bands and enable or disable fluid pressure monitoring.
Band Selection Menu
Page 31
On the transmitter, use the following procedures to switch between the
two optimized frequency bands, such as when performing an
interference check, or an AGR test in both bands with the transmitter in
the drill head prior to drilling.
Installing Batteries /
Power On
Page 65
Above Ground (Pre-Bore) Tilt Method
Do not roll the transmitter more than two clock positions (CP) during this procedure.
1. Place the transmitter on an approximately level surface (0±10°) for at least five seconds
with the receiver at the Locate screen and transmitter data being displayed.
2. Tilt the transmitter up at approximately 65° (over 100%, or nearly vertical).
3. Hold the transmitter steady for 10–18 seconds.
4. Return the transmitter to level within 10 seconds.
Normal
temp dot
Black temp dot
voids warranty
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5. After 10–18 seconds, all transmitter data disappears from the receiver’s screen,
indicating the transmitter frequency has changed.
6. Select the new frequency band in the Band Selection Menu. The new band displays at
the top of the Main menu. It may take up to 30 seconds for the transmitter to begin
sending data on the new frequency; return to the Locate screen and verify that
transmitter data appears on the display.
Below Ground (Mid-Bore) Roll Methods
Switching between bands on the Falcon F5 transmitter may provide better data results while
drilling in a section of the bore with a high level of interference. Use these methods to switch
between transmitter frequency bands mid-bore. Practice these roll methods before sending
the drill head below ground.
Frequency Change, 10-2-7
1. Ensure roll offset is disabled and transmitter roll data is displayed on the
receiver.
Roll Offset
Page 25
2. Position the transmitter at 10:00 (±1 clock position, or CP) for 10–18 seconds.
3. Roll the transmitter clockwise to its 2:00 position (±1 CP) within 10 seconds and remain
there for 10–18 seconds.
4. Roll the transmitter clockwise to its 7:00 position (±1 CP) within 10 seconds.
5. When transmitter data disappears from the receiver, the transmitter frequency has
changed. This will take approximately 10–18 seconds.
6. Select the new frequency band in the Band Selection Menu. The new band displays at
the top of the Main menu. It may take up to 30 seconds for the transmitter to begin
sending data on the new frequency; return to the Locate screen and verify that
transmitter data appears on the display.
7. Re-enable roll offset, if applicable.
Frequency Change, Repeating Roll Sequence (RRS3)
1. Remain at any clock position (CP) for at least 40 seconds to clear all timers.
2. Make a reference mark on the drill string.
3. Complete one full clockwise rotation (±2 CP) of the reference mark within 0.5–30 sec.,
then wait 10–20 seconds.
4. Repeat step 3 two more times, for a total of three rotations (RRS3).
5. After the third rotation, leave the drill string at rest for a total of 60 seconds, after which
the transmitter changes frequency.
6. Select the new frequency band in the Band Selection Menu. The new band displays at
the top of the Main menu. It may take up to 30 seconds for the transmitter to begin
sending data on the new frequency; return to the Locate screen and verify that
transmitter data appears on the display.
If any rotation is not completed within the prescribed time, or if any rotation continues for
more than one full revolution, the transmitter frequency change is cancelled.
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Warning A warning symbol in the roll indicator after changing bands on the
receiver means the transmitter has not yet been calibrated in this
band. While locate positions and roll/pitch data will be correct, depth
readings will be incorrect.
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Appendix A: System Specifications
Power Requirements
Device (Model)
Operational Voltage
Operational Current
DigiTrak Falcon F5 Receiver (FAR5)
14.4 V
390 mA max
DigiTrak F Series Battery Charger (FBC)
Input 10–28 V
Output 19.2 V
5.0 A max
1.8 A max
DigiTrak F Series Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
(FBP)
14.4 V (nominal)
4.5 Ah
65 Wh max
DigiTrak Falcon F5 Transmitter (BTP, BTPL)
1.2–4.2V
1.75 A max
DigiTrak Falcon F2 Transmitter (BTWL)
Environmental Requirements
Device (Model)
Relative Humidity
Operating Temperature
DigiTrak Falcon F5 Receiver (FAR5)
with Lithium Battery Pack
<90%
-4 to 140° F
DigiTrak Aurora Remote Display
(AF8/AF10)
DigiTrak Falcon F5 Transmitter
(BTP, BTPL, BTWL)
<100%
-4 to 220° F
DigiTrak F Series Battery Charger (FBC)
<99% for 32–50° F
<95% for 50–95° F
32 to 95° F
DigiTrak F Series Lithium-Ion Battery
Pack (FBP)
<99% for <50° F
<95% for 50–95° F
<75% for 95–140° F
-4 to 140° F
System working altitude: up to 6561 ft.
Storage and Shipping Requirements
Temperature
Storage and transportation temperature must remain within -40 to 149° F.
Packaging
Ship in original carrying case or packaging of sufficient durability to prevent mechanical shock
to equipment during transportation.
Approved for transportation by vehicle, boat, and aircraft.
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SuperCell batteries are regulated UN3090 lithium metal batteries and F Series FBP batteries
are regulated UN3480 and UN3481 lithium-ion batteries. Lithium batteries are considered
Class 9 Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods under International Air Transportation Association
(IATA) regulations; IATA regulation and Ground Transportation regulations 49 CFR 172 and
174 apply. These batteries must be packaged and shipped by trained and certified personnel
only. Never ship damaged batteries.
Equipment and Battery Disposal
This symbol on equipment indicates that the equipment must not be disposed of with your
other household waste. Instead, it is your responsibility to dispose of such equipment at a
designated collection point for the recycling of batteries or electrical and electronic
equipment. If the equipment contains a banned substance, the label will show the pollutant
(Cd = Cadmium; Hg = Mercury; Pb = Lead) near this symbol. Before recycling, ensure
batteries are discharged or the terminals are covered with adhesive tape to prevent
shorting. The separate collection and recycling of your waste equipment at the time of
disposal will help conserve natural resources and ensure it is recycled in a manner that
protects human health and the environment. For more information about where you can
drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city office, your
household waste disposal service, or the shop where you purchased the equipment.
U.S.: Contact the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation’s (RBRC) Battery Recycling
Program at 800.8.BATTERY or visit www.rbrc.org to recycle your used battery.
Transmitter Pitch Resolution
Transmitter pitch resolution decreases with increased grade.
±% Grade
± Degrees Grade
% Resolution
0 – 3%
0 – 1.7°
0.1%
3 – 9%
1.7 – 5.1°
0.2%
9 – 30%
5.1 – 16.7°
0.5%
30 – 50%
16.7 – 26.6°
2.0%
50 – 90%
26.6 – 42.0°
5.0%
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Appendix B: Receiver Screen Symbols
Symbol
Description
A
Attenuation – Indicates signal attenuation is in effect due to the presence of
excessive interference, or when locating within a few feet of the transmitter. The
receiver automatically attenuates the transmitter signal when locating at shallow
depths to reduce excessive signal strength. The A displays at the bottom-left of
the frequency optimization graph, or at the top-right of the roll indicator on the
locate screen, or beneath the Calibration Failure icon. Attenuation while locating
in close proximity to the transmitter is normal; attenuation during calibration or
frequency optimization is a warning to relocate to a location with less
interference. The receiver will not calibrate when signal attenuation is in effect. Page 16
Band Up or Down – Indicates whether the receiver is currently using the Up or
Down optimized band. Located in the title bar of the Locate screen. Page 14
Calibration Signal High – Displays after a failed calibration, often because the
transmitter is too close to the receiver. Page 17
Calibration Signal Low – Displays after a failed calibration, often because the
transmitter is not powered on or is on a different (Up or Down) frequency band
than the receiver. Page 17
Globe Icon – Shown on the receiver startup screen, the number inside (shown
blank here) identifies the regional designation, which must match that on the
transmitter battery compartment. Page 7
Ground Level – Represents the ground for the HAG function, depth readings,
and the two-point calibration procedure. Page 40
Locate Line – Represents the locate line (LL), which always displays
perpendicular to the actual transmitter. The LL is found at some location
between the front and rear locate points only after a reference lock (see below)
has been obtained. It is yellow at a distance, red when close, and black when
the receiver approaches directly over the transmitter. During target steering,
the locate line is black only. Page 52
Locating Icon (Receiver) – Represents a bird’s-eye view of the receiver. The
square at the top of this icon is referred to as the “box” in the terms Ball-in-the-
Box™ and Line-in-the-Box locating. Page 39
,
Locating Target Ball – Represents the front and rear locate points (FLP and
RLP). When the locate line appears, the locating ball will become a solid circle
(ball) representing the approximate locate point. Page 39
Max mode – Max mode begins when the trigger is held longer that five seconds
during a depth reading. Max mode will not engage when the roll/pitch update
meter is full (no signal loss). Page 41
Max Mode Timer – Provides a visual indication that Max mode is active (trigger
held). Replaces the roll/pitch update meter. It will remain red if no stable signal
can be found. Page 41
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 75
Symbol
Description
Pitch Assumed Zero – Indicates that since no pitch data is currently available,
the pitch is assumed to be zero for depth, predicted depth, and AGR
calculations. Page 40
Pressure – When using a fluid pressure transmitter, the number next to this
icon on the Locate screen indicates the pressure reading. If the pressure
reaches an over-limit condition (from 100–250 psi), the value will appear red.
When the pressure reaches the overload condition (over 250 psi), the value will
display as “+OL”. Page 61
Receiver Battery Strength – Shows the remaining battery life of the receiver
(shown 80% full here). Appears above the main menu. When battery life is low,
the icon will flash empty on the top left of the Locate screen. Page 14
Receiver – Represents the position of the receiver relative to the ground for the
height-above-ground (HAG) function, depth readings, the two-point calibration
procedure, and the Target Steering function. Page 21
R
Reference Lock – Indicates a reference signal has been obtained for
displaying the locate line. Displays at the top of the Locate screen. Page 51
RO
Roll Offset – Indicates roll offset is enabled. Displays at bottom left of the roll
indicator. Page 25
Roll/Pitch Update Meter – Shows the quality of data reception from the
transmitter (specifically, data rate). A full bar indicates the best signal. A shorter
bar indicates the receiver is in an area of interference or you are reaching the
range limit of the transmitter, relative to interference. Page 39
Telemetry Channel – The channel used to communicate with the remote
display on the drill rig. Select whichever channel offers the best performance.
Select channel 0 to turn telemetry off. Page 24
Transmitter Battery Strength/Drill Head – Depicts the remaining battery life of
the transmitter when alkaline batteries are used. Also represents the position of
the drill head relative to the receiver in the Depth screen. Page 40
Transmitter Pitch – The number next to this icon on the Locate screen is the
transmitter pitch angle. It is also the menu selection icon for changing the pitch
angle units between percent and degrees. Page 40
Transmitter Roll Indicator – Shows the transmitter’s roll position. A line points
to the roll position, and the roll value appears in the center of the clock. When
roll offset is enabled, the letters “RO” appear at the bottom left and the line
becomes a circle. Page 40
Transmitter Signal Strength – The number next to this icon on the Locate
screen is the transmitter signal strength. Maximum signal strength is 1200. Page 40
or
Transmitter Temperature – The number next to this icon shows the transmitter
temperature. An up or down arrow indicates the trend from the last reading. The
icon will glow red and flash when the transmitter becomes dangerously hot,
indicating the transmitter must be cooled immediately or it will be damaged. Page 68
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 77
Appendix C: Projected Depth Versus Actual
Depth and the Fore/Aft Offset
What Happens When the Transmitter Is Steep and Deep
The signal field emitted by the transmitter consists of a set of elliptical signals, or “flux lines”.
The flux lines indicate the position of the transmitter. When the transmitter is level with
respect to the ground, the locate line (LL) is directly over the transmitter, the depth displayed
on the receiver is the actual depth, and the locate points (FLP and RLP) are at equal
distances from the transmitter. The location of the LL is found at the intersection of the
ground and the horizontal component of the flux field; the FLP and RLP are found where the
vertical components of the flux field intersect with the ground. Some of the horizontal and
vertical components are identified below by short yellow lines.
Side View of Flux Field and Geometry of FLP, RLP, and LL
Due to the shape of the transmitter’s signal field, when it is at a pitch greater than ±10%
(±5.7°) and/or a depth of 15 ft. or more, the position of the locate line will be some distance
ahead of or behind the transmitter’s actual position. In this case, the depth displayed on the
receiver becomes what is called the projected depth. The transmitter’s distance ahead of or
behind the locate line is called the fore/aft offset.
The projected depth and fore/aft offset must be accounted for when the transmitter is steep
and/or deep. See Table C1 and Table C2 to determine the actual depth and fore/aft offset
when you know the displayed (projected) depth and pitch of the transmitter.
FLP
LL
RLP
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
78 DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
Side View of Actual Depth due to Fore/Aft Offset When Steep and Deep
The above figure shows a transmitter positioned in a drill string that is drilling at either a
positive or a negative pitch—the pitch is positive if you are drilling left to right, negative if you
are drilling right to left. The transmitter’s signal field is also pitched at the same angle as the
transmitter. The locate line (LL), which is where the depth measurement is taken, is the
horizontal component of the transmitter’s signal field flux lines. That is, the LL is found where
the flux lines are horizontal, illustrated by short horizontal yellow lines above.
The locate points (FLP and RLP) are also shown above. These points are located at the
vertical components of the signal field illustrated by short vertical yellow lines above. Note
how the locate points are not the same distance from the LL when the transmitter is pitched.
Again, this situation requires compensation for the projected depth and the fore/aft offset.
Using the following tables to find:
actual depth based on the receiver’s depth reading (projected depth) and the transmitter
pitch – Table C1
fore/aft offset based on the receiver’s depth reading (projected depth) and the
transmitter pitch – Table C2
projected depth that you will see on the receiver during drilling if you know the required
depth (actual depth) of your installation – Table C3
conversion factors for determining the projected depth from the actual depth, or the
actual depth from the projected depth at various transmitter pitches – Table C4
These "steep and deep" calculations for projected depth are important when using a bore
plan that has specified target depths on steeper and deeper bores.
LP
LL
LP
Projected depth
Actual depth
30% (17°)
pitch
Fore/aft offset
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 79
Table C1: Determining Actual Depth from Displayed (Projected) Depth and Pitch
Pitch→
Displayed
Depth ↓
±10%
(5.7°)
±20%
(11°)
±30%
(17°)
±40%
(22°)
±50%
(27°)
±60%
(31°)
±75%
(37°)
±90%
(42°)
±100%
(45°)
5'
5'
4' 11"
4' 9"
4' 6"
4' 4"
4' 2"
3' 10"
3' 6"
2' 6"
10'
9' 11"
9' 9"
9' 5"
9' 1"
8' 8"
8' 3"
7' 7"
7'
5'
15'
14' 11"
14' 8"
14' 2"
13' 7"
13'
12' 5"
11' 5"
10' 6"
7' 6"
20'
19' 11"
19' 6"
18' 10"
18' 1"
17' 4"
16' 6"
15' 3"
14'
10'
25'
24' 11"
24' 5"
23' 7"
22' 8"
21' 8"
20' 8"
19'
17' 6"
12' 6"
30'
29' 10"
29' 3"
28' 3"
27' 2"
26'
24' 9"
22' 10"
21'
15'
35'
34' 10"
34' 2"
33' 1"
31' 8"
30' 4"
28' 11"
26' 8"
24' 6"
17' 6"
40'
39' 10"
39'
37' 9"
36' 2"
34' 8"
33'
30' 5"
28'
20'
45'
44' 9"
43' 11"
42' 5"
40' 9"
39'
37' 2"
34' 3"
31' 7"
22' 6"
50'
49' 9"
48' 9"
47' 2"
45' 3"
43' 4"
41' 3"
38' 1"
35' 1"
25'
Use the projected/displayed depth values in the first column and transmitter pitches in the
first row to find actual depth.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
80 DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
Table C2: Determining Fore/Aft Offset from Displayed (Projected) Depth and Pitch
Pitch→
Displayed
Depth ↓
±10%
(5.7°)
±20%
(11°)
±30%
(17°)
±40%
(22°)
±50%
(27°)
±60%
(31°)
±75%
(37°)
±90%
(42°)
±100%
(45°)
5'
4"
8"
11"
1' 3"
1' 7"
1' 9"
2' 1"
2' 5"
2' 6"
10'
8"
1' 4"
1' 11"
2' 6"
3' 1"
3' 6"
4' 2"
4' 9"
5'
15'
1'
2'
2' 11"
3' 9"
4' 7"
5' 4 "
6' 3"
7' 1"
7' 6"
20'
1' 4"
2' 7"
3' 10"
5'
6' 1"
7' 1"
8' 4"
9' 6"
10'
25'
1' 8"
3' 3"
4' 10"
6' 3"
7' 7"
8' 10"
10' 5"
11' 10"
12' 6"
30'
2'
3' 11"
5' 10"
7' 6"
9' 2"
10' 7"
12' 6"
14' 2"
15'
35'
2' 4"
4' 7"
6' 9"
8' 9"
10' 8"
12' 5"
14' 8"
16' 7"
17' 6"
40'
2' 8"
5' 3"
7' 9"
10'
12' 2"
14' 2"
16' 9"
18' 11"
20'
45'
3'
5' 11"
8' 8"
11' 4"
13' 8"
15' 11"
18' 10"
21' 3"
22' 6"
50'
3' 4"
6' 7"
9' 4"
12' 7"
15' 3"
17' 8"
20' 11"
23' 8"
25'
Use the projected/displayed depth values in the first column and transmitter pitches in the
first row to find fore/aft Max mode timer offset values.
Table C3: Determining Projected Depth from Actual Depth and Pitch
Pitch→
Actual
Depth ↓
±10%
(5.7°)
±20%
(11°)
±30%
(17°)
±40%
(22°)
±50%
(27°)
±60%
(31°)
±75%
(37°)
±90%
(42°)
±100%
(45°)
5'
5'
5' 2"
5' 3"
5' 6"
5' 8"
5' 11"
6' 3"
6' 6"
7' 6"
10'
10' 1"
10' 3"
10' 7"
10' 11"
11' 4"
11' 9"
12' 5"
13'
15'
15'
15' 1"
15' 5"
15' 10"
16' 5"
17'
17' 8"
18' 7"
19' 6"
22' 6"
20'
20' 1"
20' 6"
21' 2"
21' 11"
22' 8"
23' 6"
24' 9"
26'
30'
25'
25' 2"
25' 8"
26' 5"
27' 5"
28' 4"
29' 5"
31'
32' 6"
37' 6"
30'
30' 2"
30' 9"
31' 9"
32' 10"
34'
35' 3"
37' 2"
39'
45'
35'
35' 2"
35' 11"
37'
38' 4"
36' 8"
41' 2"
43' 4"
45' 6"
52' 6"
40'
40' 2"
41'
42' 3"
43' 10"
45' 4"
47'
49' 7"
52'
60'
45'
45' 3"
46' 2"
47' 7"
49' 3"
51'
52' 2"
55' 9"
58' 6"
67' 6"
50'
50' 3"
51' 3"
52' 10"
54' 9"
56' 8"
58' 9"
61' 11"
64' 11"
75'
Use the actual depth values in the first column and transmitter pitches in the first row to find
projected depth values.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 81
Table C4: Conversion Factors for Calculating Exact Projected Depth or Actual Depth
Pitch →
±10%
(5.7°)
±20%
(11°)
±30%
(17°)
±40%
(22°)
±50%
(27°)
±60%
(31°)
±75%
(37°)
±90%
(42°)
From Actual to
Projected Depth
1.005
1.025
1.06
1.105
1.155
1.212
1.314
1.426
From Projected to
Actual Depth
0.995
0.975
0.943
0.905
0.866
0.825
0.761
0.701
Table C4 helps calculate the exact projected depth reading as well as the actual depth using
a multiplier (conversion factor) at different transmitter pitches.
For example, if you have a required (actual) depth of 24 ft. and want the receiver’s projected
depth reading at a 30% (17°) pitch, use the first row of conversion factors to select the
corresponding value for a pitch of 30%, which is 1.06. Multiply this value by the required
depth of 24. The result, 25 ft. 5 in., is what the receiver’s projected depth reading should be at
the locate line.
Using the projected depth displayed on the receiver, you can calculate the actual depth of the
transmitter using the second row of conversion factors. For example, if your pitch is 30% and
your projected depth reading is 24 ft., multiply depth 24 by conversion factor 0.943. The
result, 22 ft. 8 in., is the actual depth of the transmitter.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
82 DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
Appendix D: Calculating Depth Based on
Distance Between FLP and RLP
If you know the transmitter pitch, the positions of the front locate point (FLP) and the rear
locate point (RLP), and if the ground surface is level, you can still estimate the transmitter
depth even if the depth information displayed on the receiver becomes unreliable.
To estimate the transmitter depth, first measure the distance between the FLP and the RLP.
The pitch of the transmitter must also be reliably known. Using the Depth Estimation Table
below, find the divider that most closely corresponds to the transmitter pitch. Then use the
following formula to estimate the depth:
Depth = Distance between FLP and RLP / Divider
For example, if the transmitter pitch is 34% (or 18.8°) then the corresponding divider value
(from the table) is 1.50. In this example, the distance between the FLP and the RLP is 11.5
ft.. The depth would be:
Depth = 11.5 ft. / 1.50 = 7.66 ft.
Depth Estimation Table
Pitch ( % / ° )
Divider
Pitch ( % / ° )
Divider
Pitch ( % / ° )
Divider
0 / 0.0
1.41
34 / 18.8
1.50
68 / 34.2
1.74
2 / 1.1
1.41
36 / 19.8
1.51
70 / 35.0
1.76
4 / 2.3
1.42
38 / 20.8
1.52
72 / 35.8
1.78
6 / 3.4
1.42
40 / 21.8
1.54
74 / 36.5
1.80
8 / 4.6
1.42
42 / 22.8
1.55
76 / 37.2
1.82
10 / 5.7
1.42
44 / 23.7
1.56
78 / 38.0
1.84
12 / 6.8
1.43
46 / 24.7
1.57
80 / 38.7
1.85
14 / 8.0
1.43
48 / 25.6
1.59
82 / 39.4
1.87
16 / 9.1
1.43
50 / 26.6
1.60
84 / 40.0
1.89
18 / 10.2
1.44
52 / 27.5
1.62
86 / 40.7
1.91
20 / 11.3
1.45
54 / 28.4
1.63
88 / 41.3
1.93
22 / 11.9
1.45
56 / 29.2
1.64
90 / 42.0
1.96
24 / 13.5
1.46
58 / 30.1
1.66
92 / 42.6
1.98
26 / 14.6
1.47
60 / 31.0
1.68
94 / 43.2
2.00
28 / 15.6
1.48
62 / 31.8
1.69
96 / 43.8
2.02
30 / 16.7
1.48
64 / 32.6
1.71
98 / 44.4
2.04
32 / 17.7
1.49
66 / 33.4
1.73
100 / 45.0
2.06
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 83
Appendix E: Reference Tables
Depth Increase in Inches per 10-ft. Rod
Percent
Depth Increase
Percent
Depth Increase
1
1 in.
28
32 in.
2
2 in.
29
33 in.
3
4 in.
30
34 in.
4
5 in.
31
36 in.
5
6 in.
32
37 in.
6
7 in.
33
38 in.
7
8 in.
34
39 in.
8
10 in.
35
40 in.
9
11 in.
36
41 in.
10
12 in.
37
42 in.
11
13 in.
38
43 in.
12
14 in.
39
44 in.
13
15 in.
40
45 in.
14
17 in.
41
46 in.
15
18 in.
42
46 in.
16
19 in.
43
47 in.
17
20 in.
44
48 in.
18
21 in.
45
49 in.
19
22 in.
46
50 in.
20
24 in.
47
51 in.
21
25 in.
50
54 in.
22
26 in.
55
58 in.
23
27 in.
60
62 in.
24
28 in.
70
69 in.
25
29 in.
80
75 in.
26
30 in.
90
80 in.
27
31 in.
100
85 in.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
84 DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual
Depth Increase in Inches per 15-ft. Rod
Percent
Depth Increase
Percent
Depth Increase
1
2 in.
28
49 in.
2
4 in.
29
50 in.
3
5 in.
30
52 in.
4
7 in.
31
53 in.
5
9 in.
32
55 in.
6
11 in.
33
56 in.
7
13 in.
34
58 in.
8
14 in.
35
59 in.
9
16 in.
36
61 in.
10
18 in.
37
62 in.
11
20 in.
38
64 in.
12
21 in.
39
65 in.
13
23 in.
40
67 in.
14
25 in.
41
68 in.
15
27 in.
42
70 in.
16
28 in.
43
71 in.
17
30 in.
44
72 in.
18
32 in.
45
74 in.
19
34 in.
46
75 in.
20
35 in.
47
77 in.
21
37 in.
50
80 in.
22
39 in.
55
87 in.
23
40 in.
60
93 in.
24
42 in.
70
103 in.
25
44 in.
80
112 in.
26
45 in.
90
120 in.
27
47 in.
100
127 in.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual 85
DIGITAL
CONTROL
INCORPORATED
19625 62nd Ave S, Suite B103
Kent Washington 98032, USA
425.251.0559 / 800.288.3610
dci@digital-control.com, www.DigiTrak.com
DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual - Warranty 1
LIMITED WARRANTY
Digital Control Incorporated ("DCI") warrants that, when shipped from DCI, each DCI product (other than software products) will conform to
DCI’s current published specifications in existence at the time of shipment and will be free, for the warranty period (“Warranty Period”)
specified below, from material defects in materials and workmanship. In addition, DCI warrants that each DCI software product will perform in
substantial accordance with the specifications set forth in the documentation for such software for the Warranty Period specified below. The
following limited warranty (“Limited Warranty”) is made solely to and for the benefit of the first end-user (“User”) purchasing the DCI product
from either DCI or a dealer expressly authorized by DCI to sell DCI products (“Authorized DCI Dealer”) and is not assignable or transferable.
The foregoing Limited Warranty is subject to the following terms, conditions and limitations:
1. A Warranty Period of twelve (12) months shall apply to the following new DCI products: receivers/locators, remote displays, battery
chargers and rechargeable batteries, and software programs and applications. A Warranty Period of ninety (90) days shall apply to all
other new DCI products, including transmitters and accessories. A Warranty Period of ninety (90) days shall also apply to services
provided by DCI, including testing, servicing, and repairing an out-of-warranty DCI product. The Warranty Period shall begin from the
later of: (i) the date of shipment of the DCI product from DCI, or (ii) the date of shipment (or other delivery) of the DCI product from an
Authorized DCI Dealer to User.
2. If a DCI product (excluding software products) does not perform as warranted during the Warranty Period, DCI will inspect the product
and if DCI determines such product to be defective, DCI will, at its sole option and discretion, either repair or replace the product. If a
software product does not perform as warranted during the Warranty Period, DCI will, at its sole option and discretion, either bring the
defective software into material compliance with the specifications for such software or refund the purchase price paid for the defective
software. THE FOREGOING ARE USER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES FOR BREACH OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. All
warranty inspections, repairs and adjustments must be performed either by DCI or by a warranty claim service authorized in writing by
DCI. All warranty claims must include proof of purchase, including proof of purchase date, identifying the DCI product by serial number,
and be submitted before the end of the Warranty Period.
3. The Limited Warranty shall only be effective if: (i) within fourteen (14) days of receipt of the DCI product, User registers the DCI product
with DCI through its product registration website at access.DigiTrak.com; (ii) User makes a reasonable inspection upon first receipt of
the DCI product and immediately notifies DCI of any apparent defect; and (iii) User complies with all of the Warranty Claim Procedures
described below.
4. The service period for this equipment is five years from the date of manufacture. During this period, DCI will support the repair or
replacement of the products featured in this manual. A fee for repairs and replacements may be charged if the product is outside the
warranty period.
What is not covered
This Limited Warranty excludes all damage, including damage to any DCI product, due to: failure to follow DCI’s operator’s manual and other
DCI instructions; use of a DCI product outside the specifications for which the DCI product is designed (including, without limitation,
temperature); abuse; misuse; neglect; accident; fire; flood; Acts of God; improper applications; connection to incorrect line voltages and
improper power sources; use of incorrect fuses; overheating; contact with high voltages or injurious substances; use of batteries or other
products or components not manufactured or supplied by DCI; or other events beyond the control of DCI. This Limited Warranty does not
apply to any equipment not manufactured or supplied by DCI nor, if applicable, to any damage or loss resulting from use of any DCI product
outside the designated country of use. User agrees to carefully evaluate the suitability of the DCI product for User’s intended use and to
thoroughly read and strictly follow all instructions supplied by DCI (including any updated DCI product information which may be obtained
from the DCI website). In no event shall this Limited Warranty cover any damage arising during shipment of the DCI product to or from DCI.
User agrees that the following will render the above Limited Warranty void: (i) alteration, removal or tampering with any serial number,
identification, instructional, or sealing labels on the DCI product, or (ii) any unauthorized disassembly, repair or modification of the DCI
product. In no event shall DCI be responsible for the cost of or any damage resulting from any changes, modifications, or repairs to the DCI
product not expressly authorized in writing by DCI, and DCI shall not be responsible for the loss of or damage to the DCI product or any other
equipment while in the possession of any service agency not authorized by DCI.
DCI does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of data generated by HDD locating systems. The accuracy or
completeness of such data may be impacted by a variety of factors, including (without limitation) active or passive interference (including
from salt water) and other environmental conditions, failure to calibrate or use the device properly and other factors. DCI also does not
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shall have no obligation to upgrade any previously manufactured DCI product to include any such changes.
DIGITAL CONTROL INCORPORATED
2 DigiTrak Falcon™ F5
Operator’s Manual - Warranty
THE FOREGOING LIMITED WARRANTY IS DCI’S SOLE WARRANTY AND IS MADE IN PLACE OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR
A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, IMPLIED WARRANTY OF NON-INFRINGEMENT, AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY ARISING FROM
COURSE OF PERFORMANCE, COURSE OF DEALING, OR USAGE OF TRADE, ALL OF WHICH ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED AND
EXCLUDED. If DCI has substantially complied with the warranty claim procedures described below, such procedures shall constitute User’s
sole and exclusive remedy for breach of the Limited Warranty.
Limitation of remedies and liability
In no event shall DCI or anyone else involved in the creation, production, or delivery of the DCI product be liable for any damages
arising out of the use or inability to use the DCI product, including but not limited to indirect, special, incidental, or consequential
damages, or for any cover, loss of information, profit, revenue or use, based upon any claim by User for breach of warranty,
breach of contract, negligence, strict liability, or any other legal theory, even if DCI has been advised of the possibility of such
damages. In no event shall DCI’s liability exceed the amount User has paid for the DCI product. To the extent that any applicable
law does not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental, consequential or similar damages, the foregoing limitations regarding
such damages shall not apply.
This Limited Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. This Limited
Warranty shall be governed by the laws of the State of Washington.
Warranty claim procedures
1. If you are having problems with your DCI product, you must first contact the Authorized DCI Dealer where it was purchased. If you are
unable to resolve the problem through your Authorized DCI Dealer, contact DCI’s Customer Service Department in Kent, Washington,
USA at 1.800.288.3610 (or, for international markets, the corresponding telephone number for that market) between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00
p.m. Pacific Time and ask to speak with a customer service representative. Prior to returning any DCI product to DCI for service, you
must obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Failure to obtain an RMA may result in delays or return to you of the
DCI product without repair.
2. After contacting a DCI customer service representative by telephone, the representative will attempt to assist you in troubleshooting
while you are using the DCI product during actual field operations. Please have all related equipment available together with a list of all
DCI product serial numbers. It is important that field troubleshooting be conducted because many problems do not result from a
defective DCI product, but instead are due to either operational errors or adverse conditions occurring in User’s drilling environment.
3. If a DCI product problem is confirmed as a result of field troubleshooting discussions with a DCI customer service representative, the
representative will issue an RMA number authorizing the return of the DCI product and will provide shipping directions. You will be
responsible for all shipping costs, including any insurance. If, after receiving the DCI product and performing diagnostic testing, DCI
determines the problem is covered by the Limited Warranty, required repairs and/or adjustments will be made, and a properly
functioning DCI product will be promptly shipped to you. If the problem is not covered by the Limited Warranty, you will be informed of
the reason and be provided an estimate of repair costs. If you authorize DCI to service or repair the DCI product, the work will be
promptly performed and the DCI product will be shipped to you. You will be billed for any costs for testing, repairs and adjustments not
covered by the Limited Warranty and for shipping costs. In most cases, repairs are accomplished within 1 to 2 weeks.
4. DCI has a limited supply of loaner equipment available. If loaner equipment is required by you and is available, DCI will attempt to ship
loaner equipment to you by overnight delivery for your use while your equipment is being serviced by DCI. DCI will make reasonable
efforts to minimize your downtime on warranty claims, limited by circumstances not within DCI’s control. If DCI provides you loaner
equipment, your equipment must be received by DCI no later than the second business day after your receipt of loaner equipment. You
must return the loaner equipment by overnight delivery for receipt by DCI no later than the second business day after your receipt of the
repaired DCI product. Any failure to meet these deadlines will result in a rental charge for use of the loaner equipment for each extra
day the return of the loaner equipment to DCI is delayed.
Product demonstrations
DCI personnel may be present at a jobsite to demonstrate basic usage, features, and benefits of DCI products. User acknowledges that DCI
personnel are present only to demonstrate a DCI product. DCI does NOT provide locating services or other consulting or contracting
services. DCI does not assume any duty to train User or any other person, and does not assume responsibility or liability for the locating or
other work performed at a jobsite at which DCI personnel or equipment are or have been present.
This document is a translation of the original English language version of this document. The purpose of this
translation is to assist the product user. However, in the event of any discrepancy in meaning or interpretation
between the translation and the original English language version, the original English language version shall
control. A copy of the original English language version of this document may be found at www.DigiTrak.com.
Under Service & Support, click Documentation and select from the Manuals drop-down menu.