The Schonstedt magnetic locator can find ferrous objects by responding to the difference in the magnetic field between two sensors that are spaced about 9.5 inches apart. This difference is called “signal strength,” and it’s represented by an audio tone that comes out of the instrument, the display of a bar graph, and a numeric value. The polarity of signal strength is shown as either a + or - sign that will be seen on the display, and it will determine which side (left or right) of the bar graph the value will be displayed. While most objects can be found with just the audio tone, having a visual response will give you more information that can help you find a target and determine its specific orientation.
While a Schonstedt magnetic locator can find objects made of magnetic materials, it won’t find non-metallic or non-ferrous objects. For this type of project, you will need to use a pipe and cable locator. It will allow you to detect a specific frequency through which a specific utility line will run. This can be done passively (which can work on electrical lines) or by applying a specific frequency to the utility line you want to locate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Schonstedt Maggie?
The Schondstedt Maggie is a pistol-grip magnetic locator that, because of its one-handed operation, can offer a superior level of sensitivity and precision. And because of its intuitive display, you can get what you need quickly. It has many features that are offered by Scondstedt flagship products, but it can be operated with one hand. Be sure to visit Engineering Supply to find your Schonstedt magnetic locator today!
How does a magnetic locator work?
A Schonstedt magnetic locator will only find metal objects that are made of ferrous materials. So if a magnet can stick to it, it will be able to find it. This is different from a pipe and cable locator, which can only find objects that give off an electrical charge or radio signal.
How deep can a magnetic locator work?
The depth through which a Schonstedt magnetic locator can find an object will depend on its mass. You can find a surveying nail up to about 2 or 3 feet underground, while an underground storage tank can be found to about 15 to 17 feet deep. But they can only find objects that are made of ferrous metals. So, it won’t be able to locate it if it’s made of a non-ferrous metal (such as aluminum or copper).
Is the Schonstedt magnetic locator waterproof?
The Schonstedt GA-52Cx magnetic locator is waterproof up to a depth of 34.5 feet (87.6 cm), and it’s built with a solid aluminum casing that gives this tool a rugged design. Feel free to visit Engineering Supply, so you can find a Schonstedt magnetic locator that’s right for you!
What materials can a Schonstedt magnetic locator detect?
A Schonstedt Maggie or any other magnetic locator can find objects that are made of ferrous metals, so they can only find objects that are made of materials to which a magnet will stick. They will not, however, find objects that are made of non-ferrous metals or any non-metallic materials. Be sure to look at what we have at Engineering Supply, so you can find a Schonstedt Maggie or any other magnetic locator that will meet your specific needs.