Fisher Labs TW-82 Single-Frequency Digital Underground Line Tracer
Follow Buried Utility Lines with Clear Digital Guidance
The Fisher TW-82 is a digital line tracer for locating and following buried conductive utilities, including metallic pipes, cables, and plastic lines fitted with tracer wire. Its 82.175 kHz transmitter supports direct conductive tracing and inductive tracing when a direct connection is unavailable.
The receiver gives you visual and audible guidance as you follow the line. Automatic depth and signal current readings provide additional information to help confirm the path you are tracing.
Key Features
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Single-frequency operation: Transmits at 82.175 kHz.
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Two tracing modes: Standard Mode responds automatically; programmable Lateral Mode helps locate weaker service lines branching from a stronger main line.
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Clear guidance: Audible and visual left/right indicators, an azimuth indicator, and over-target alerts.
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Digital measurements: Displays signal strength, signal current, and automatic depth readings.
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Flexible signal application: Use direct connection or inductive placement. An optional coupling clamp supports tracing where a direct connection is unsuitable.
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Built for field use: IP65-rated housing with an operating range of -4°F to 140°F.
Specifications
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Model: TW-82
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Operating frequency: 82.175 kHz
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Transmitter output: 0.25 watt normal; 1.0 watt high
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Receiver batteries: Two D-cell batteries
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Transmitter batteries: Four D-cell batteries
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Receiver battery life: Approximately 80–130 hours, depending on volume setting
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Transmitter battery life: Approximately 130 hours with high-quality alkaline batteries
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Manufacturer warranty: 2 years
Note: The TW-82 is an active line tracer. For receiver-only detection of 50/60 Hz power current, see the Fisher TW-82P. Never connect tracing cables directly to an energized electrical or communication line.
The Fisher Labs TW82 is a digital underground line tracer designed for easy and efficient location of conductive lines, such as pipes, cables, and electrical lines. It features a single frequency and one-button operation, ensuring simple usage. The ultra-fast target response system provides quick and accurate location results. Moreover, the transmitter automatically adjusts the output signal to optimize power output based on ground conditions, using load impedance matching.
The TW82 is built to withstand harsh weather conditions and impact, with sealed and thick-wall injection-molded construction. It provides three tracing methods: conductive, inductive, and via coupling clamp, enabling versatile utility tracing. The conductive method uses the included transmitter to make a direct electrical connection to the buried utility via conductive tracing cables. The inductive method is used when a direct connection is not possible, energizing the utility indirectly through magnetic coupling. The coupling clamp method is used when the utility is exposed, but a direct connection is unavailable. The accessory coupling clamp clamps around the utility and couples an energizing current from the transmitter.
The strength of the signal received is dependent on the depth of the utility. The audio signal decreases in volume as the receiver moves further from the utility and increases as it gets closer. When directly over the utility, the audio signal is silent. The display includes rotational arrows indicating the utility's path relative to the user's position.
Key Features
- Displays Depth, Azimuth, Signal Current, Left/Right/Over-Target
- Provides full-time continuous readouts
- Weatherproof, impact resistant and IP65 compliant housing
- Two-button receiver operation
- Ergonomic, lightweight design
- Programmable lateral mode
- Operating Temperature Range: -4°F to 140°F (-20°C to +60°C)
- Transmitter Output Frequency: 82.175 kHz
- Receiver Frequency: 82.175 kHz
- Left/Right Guidance: Audible and Visual
- Azimuth Indicator: Visual
- Conductive Tracing Impedance Matching Range:
- Normal Power: 2 to 8000 ohms -6dB
- High Power: 2 to 3000 ohms -6dB
- Inductive Tracing Magnetic Strength:
- Normal Power: 15 Vm2
- High Power: 25 Vm2
- Transmitter Battery Type: Four D-cell batteries (included)
- Transmitter Battery Life: Typically 130 hours
- Signal Strength Indicator: Numeric display & audible
- Signal Current Measurement: Numeric display, automatic
- Depth Measurement: Numeric display, automatic
- Receiver Battery Type: Two D-cell batteries (included)
- Receiver Battery Life: 100 hours (average)
Includes:
- 6 - D-Cell Batteries
- 1 - Transmitter Unit
- 1 - Receiver Unit
- 1 - Ground-Rod Assembly
- 1 - Soft Carrying Case
- 1 - User Manual
