Spot Magnetic Locator

Technical Guide: Spot Magnetic Locator

Product Overview

The Spot Magnetic Locator from Schonstedt (distributed by Eastcom Associates) is a next‑generation ferrous locator designed for surveyors, utility locators, and construction crews who need high‑accuracy detection at an affordable price. The instrument uses patented HeliFlux® dual‑sensor technology to detect the magnetic fields generated by iron and steel objects while ignoring non‑ferrous metals like aluminum, brass, or copper. Built on the proven performance of Schonstedt’s classic GA‑52Cx but with improved ergonomics and a pistol‑grip form factor, Spot offers precise audio feedback, robust environmental protection, and a seven‑year warranty.

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Key Features and Benefits

High sensitivity with HeliFlux® sensors

• Dual HeliFlux® sensors: The Spot uses two magnetic sensors spaced 20 inches apart to measure differences in the earth’s magnetic field; this differential approach produces very high sensitivity and allows the instrument to detect small changes in magnetic field strength as the operator sweeps the unit across the ground.
  
  
• Same accuracy as GA‑52Cx: Despite its compact, pistol‑grip design, Spot’s engineering and accuracy are equivalent to Schonstedt’s GA‑52Cx locator. This means users gain the accuracy of a professional stick locator with the convenience of a lighter form factor.
  
  
• Audio‑only output: Spot provides audible feedback; the frequency of the tone increases as the signal strength increases, helping users pinpoint the exact location of a target. There is no visual display, which simplifies operation and reduces power consumption.
  
  
• Gain settings: Operators can select among five gain levels—Extra Low, Low, Medium, High, and Extra High—to adjust sensitivity for different targets or depths. The unit remembers the last gain setting used when turned off.
  
  

Ergonomic, rugged design

• Pistol‑grip or vertical orientation: Spot’s ultralight design offers the versatility of single‑handed pistol‑grip use or the vertical orientation familiar to GA‑52Cx users. This flexibility allows operators to choose the grip that feels most natural.
  
  
• Durable materials: The locator features a high‑impact ABS body and an aluminum sensor tube to withstand rough field conditions. The included padded carrying case with shoulder sling makes it easy to transport through dense brush or uneven terrain.
  
  
• IP54 environmental protection: Spot is dust‑ and water‑resistant and is rated IP54 overall; the lower section is waterproof up to 27 inches (58 cm) from the tip. This allows work in wet or muddy environments without fear of damage.
  
  
• Lightweight: The instrument weighs approximately 2 lb (0.9 kg) and measures 42.3 in (107.4 cm) long. Its low weight reduces operator fatigue during long surveys.
  
  

Powerful performance

• Detection depth: Spot can detect ferrous objects up to 18 feet (5.48 m) deep, depending on the size and orientation of the target. For example, a 1¼‑inch PK nail can be found up to 12 inches deep, rebar up to 9 feet, and cast‑iron pipes up to 10 feet.
  
  
• Wide target range: The locator is optimized for locating survey pins, markers, nails, water and gas valves, manhole covers, and other deep iron/steel objects. It can even detect buried ordnance or discarded weapons, making it suitable for municipal and military applications.
  
  
• Audio range: The audio frequency spans 30 – 4 000 Hz; as signal strength increases, the tone frequency rises to guide the operator toward the target. Volume can be set to medium or maximum.
  
  
• Power and battery life: Spot uses a single 9‑volt battery and delivers about 24 hours of intermittent operation. A low‑battery indicator emits a half‑second beep every 13 seconds, and the unit automatically shuts off if the voltage drops below 6 V to protect internal circuits. Battery replacement is easy thanks to a screw‑on cover.
  
  
• Operating temperature: The locator functions in temperatures from –13 °F to 140 °F (–25 °C to 60 °C), enabling year‑round fieldwork.
  
  

Warranty and support

• Seven‑year warranty: Spot is backed by a seven‑year warranty, underscoring Schonstedt’s confidence in its durability. For military and EOD applications, the warranty is one year.
  
  
• Technical support: Schonstedt provides technical support and repair services. When purchased from Eastcom Associates, customers also gain access to the company’s dedicated training and repair center.
  
  

Technical Specifications

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How the Spot Magnetic Locator Works

Magnetic locators detect ferromagnetic objects by measuring variations in the earth’s magnetic field. Spot has two HeliFlux sensors spaced 20 inches apart. When the locator passes over a target, the magnetic field strength at one sensor is different from that at the other sensor, creating a signal strength (Δ). Spot converts this difference into an audio tone whose frequency increases with increasing signal strength.

Because only ferromagnetic materials (iron, steel) significantly distort the earth’s magnetic field, Spot ignores non‑ferrous metals such as aluminum, brass, or copper. The audio‑only output simplifies operation; there is no display to read, so the operator can focus on the tone. A unique gain memory feature remembers the last sensitivity setting, speeding up subsequent surveys.

1. Turn the unit on: Press the ON/OFF button. Upon power‑up, the unit emits short beeps indicating the current gain setting (one beep for Extra Low, two for Low, and so on).
   
   
2. Adjust sensitivity: Use the + and – buttons to increase or decrease sensitivity. Higher gain allows detection of smaller or deeper objects, while lower gain reduces clutter when searching for large shallow objects. Spot memorizes the last gain setting used.
   
   
3. Sweep the area: Hold the locator in your preferred orientation. Sweep from side to side to cover a broad area. Remove wristwatches and keep the locator away from keys or magnetic objects to avoid interference.
   
   
4. Interpret audio signals: A higher tone indicates stronger magnetic field differences, implying proximity to a ferromagnetic target. Listen for peaks and nulls to pinpoint targets:
   
   
   • Vertical targets (e.g., survey pins) produce a single peak when the locator is directly above them.
     
     
   • Horizontal targets (e.g., rebar) produce peaks at both ends of the object. Use an “X” pattern to precisely locate small items.
     
     
5. Identify target orientation: For strongly magnetized markers, sweep completely across the marker to distinguish between weak and strong peaks. For stakes, rotate the pin 180 degrees to find the orientation that produces the largest reading.
   
   
6. Specific applications:
   
   
   • Manhole covers and well casings: Trace the edges, locating depths up to 10 ft for manholes and 18 ft for casings.
     
     
   • Septic tanks: Spot detects metal handles or reinforcing bars on septic tank covers up to 5 ft deep.
     
     
   • Barbed wire: Tip the locator slightly downward (but not parallel to the ground) and orient it parallel with the wire to detect buried fences.
     
     
   • Chain‑link fences: Reduce sensitivity and hold the locator horizontally with the long axis perpendicular to the fence; move slowly forward while scanning side‑to‑side.
     
     
   • Valve boxes and casings: Ferrous valves produce strong magnetic fields and are easily located; magnetic markers in plastic enclosures can be detected up to 10 ft.
     
     
   • Cast‑iron pipes: Locate joints by setting gain to maximum and sweeping along the line; mark peak signals and adjust height or sensitivity during a second pass.
     
     
   • Steel drums: The signal pattern varies with drum orientation; a 55‑gallon drum can be detected up to 10 ft deep.
     
     
   • Power lines: A “burbling” sound indicates the presence of energized power lines (50/60 Hz); note that the locator will not respond to gold, silver or other non‑ferrous metals.
     
     
7. Replace the battery: When the unit emits a half‑second beep every 13 s, replace the 9‑V battery by unscrewing the battery door near the top of the locator.
   
   

Maintenance and Best Practices

• Keep the sensors clean: Wipe down the sensor tube after use to remove dirt or moisture. Avoid dropping or striking the locator, as impacts can damage the sensitive sensors.
  
  
• Check battery regularly: Cold temperatures reduce battery life. Carry a spare 9‑V battery in the field.
  
  
• Store properly: Use the padded carrying case provided to protect the locator during transport and storage.
  
  
• Calibration: Spot does not require user calibration; however, if the audio tone seems unstable or the unit fails to respond properly, contact Schonstedt or Eastcom for inspection.
  
  

Why Choose Eastcom Associates for the Spot Magnetic Locator

Eastcom Associates has been a trusted distributor of utility‑location and leak‑detection products since 1972. The company stocks a comprehensive line of equipment dedicated to utility location, leak detection, fault location, and pipeline inspection and serves customers throughout the Northeast and Mid‑Atlantic regions. Eastcom offers on‑site product demonstrations, training, and technical support, and maintains a service center to deliver fast and effective repairs. Their experience and commitment to customer service make them a reliable partner for professionals who need accurate locating instruments like the Spot Magnetic Locator.

Choosing Eastcom Associates as your supplier ensures you receive genuine Schonstedt instruments backed by comprehensive regional support. Eastcom stocks a full range of utility‑location tools and has served the industry since 1972. Customers benefit from:

• Expert advice: Eastcom’s experienced sales managers provide guidance across the Northeast, Mid‑Atlantic, and Southern states. They understand regional soils, regulations, and locating challenges.
  
  
• On‑site demonstrations and training: Eastcom offers free on‑site demos and applications training, ensuring your crew quickly masters the Spot Magnetic Locator.
  
  
• Fast repairs and service: A fully equipped service center in New Jersey provides timely repairs and warranty service. Eastcom stands behind the products they sell.
  
  
• Comprehensive product range: Beyond magnetic locators, Eastcom carries pipe & cable locators, leak detectors, ground‑penetrating radar, inspection cameras, and more, making them a one‑stop shop for subsurface detection.

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Contact Eastcom Today

Schedule a demonstration or discuss how the Spot Magnetic Locator can improve your productivity and safety.

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