Sonde locating has been around for a long time. The idea is to energize the camera head so that you can find a specific location using an electromagnetic locator. The transmitter embedded in the camera head emits a radio frequency providing precise location and depth. This technique is used when you need to pinpoint the location that a drainline is damaged to help reduce excavation needed to make the repair. 

Modern camera monitors are making the job even easier by providing “integrated line tracing” functionality. When a transmitter is hooked up to the monitor, the entire push cable can be energized. A user can then use their locator to follow the entire pipe instead of just locating the camera head. No more running up and down stairs to mark the camera’s location every few feet when mapping out a line.

Josh Sooy is senior product manager of underground technologies for RIDGID.