Founded in 1953, Schonstedt manufactures tools that can be used to located ferrous objects and utility lines located underground or underwater. They also make pipe and cable locators, which can be used to detect non-ferrous or non-metallic objects. And while their functions are somewhat different, both of them are called “underground locators.” Some people also refer to them as any of the following:
- Utility locators
- Yellow sticks
- Metal detectors
The Schonstedt magnetic locator can only find objects that are made of ferrous metals. So if a magnet will stick to it, a magnetic locator can find it. The depth at which this type of utility locator will find an object depends on its mass. You can find a surveying nail to about 2-3 feet underground, while an underground storage tank can be found at a depth of about 15-17 feet. However, it will not be able to find electrical power cables (which are made of copper or aluminum).
Some of the items that can be found by a Schonstedt magnetic locator include:
- Cast iron pipes
- Property corner markers
- Steel enclosures
- Hazmat drums
- Mag and PK nails
- Manhole covers
- Marker magnets
- Septic tanks
- Unexploded ordnance
- Valve boxes
- Weapons
- Well casings
It uses the Earth’s magnetic field to find these objects, which is different than a pipe and cable locator that transmits and receives an electrical signal to find non-metallic objects.
Types of Magnetic Locators Made by Schonstedt
Schonstedt makes five types of magnetic locators, which include:
GA-52
This is the oldest and still the most popular type of Schonstedt magnetic locator. It has two controls located on the side, which allows you to adjust the device’s sensitivity and volume. And it’s designed for one-handed operation. The sensors will give you five levels of sensitivity, and it has an unsurpassed detection range. It also has a metal housing and is waterproof up to the control cover.
GA-72
This magnetic locator has both audio and video output, and it comes with an LED readout that shows polarity and relative signal strength.
GA-92
This Schonstedt magnetic locator is retractable. The membrane-covered switches also allow you to operate and control the device with one hand. This device is considered to be the most portable magnetic locator on the market. It has both audio and video output, and it can locate objects up to 16 feet underground.
Maggie
This magnetic locator combines the sensitivity and precision of the GA-52 with the single-handed operation of the GA-92. It has both audio and video output, and it has four levels of gain. It also has an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance.
Spot
Because of its low price, this magnetic locator has tremendous value. It has the high sensitivity of the GA-52 but with a sleeker and more lightweight design. Like every other utility locator made by Schonstedt, it has a rugged design. So, it will last through years of use. It only has audio output, but it has an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance.
If you’re looking for any type of utility locator made by Schonstedt, be sure to look at what we have at
Engineer Supply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a magnetic locator?
A
Schonstedt magnetic locator can be used to find objects that are made of ferrous metals. So if a magnetic can stick to it, this
utility locator will be able to find it. However, it won’t be able to find any non-metallic or non-ferrous object (such as electrical cables and PVC pipes). To find these objects, you will need to use a pipe and cable locator that transmits an electrical signal throughout the line.
How do I change the battery on a magnetic locator?
A
Schonstedt magnetic locator will be powered by two 9-volt alkaline batteries, but a lithium battery is recommended because it will give you better performance. Lithium batteries have a 10-year shelf life, which is two to four times the lifespan of an alkaline battery. If your battery power is getting weak, be sure to look at the device’s manual for more detailed instructions.
What's the difference between a magnetic locator and a pipe locator?
A
magnetic locator can find objects made of ferrous metals by using the Earth’s magnetic field, so it doesn’t emit a signal. It measures distortions in the magnetic field that surround the buried object. A pipe and cable locator can find underground pipes and utility cables by transmitting an electrical current through the line, which the receiver can pick up.
How do magnetic locators work?
A
magnetic locator uses the Earth’s natural magnetic field to find objects made of ferrous metals that are underground, underwater, or in snow. It measures the magnetic distortions around the object, which is transmitted through an audio signal that changes pitch according to the proximity of the field. This tool is often used by surveyors, excavators and construction workers to locate objects at different depths — from small corner pins to large tanks and drums.
Where can I buy a quality magnetic locator?
If you’re looking for a place with a broad selection of magnetic locators and other types of location tools, you can find what you need at
Engineer Supply. We have a variety of tools that can be used by surveyors, engineers, and construction workers, and all of them come from some of the best manufacturers in the industry. Feel free to look at what we have in stock, so you can find a
Schonstedt magnetic locator that’s right for you!
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