If you are considering buying a Cable Avoidance Tool and/or a Signal Generator in order to detect underground services, there are many different manufacturers who produce a range of different models. Some of them are very good indeed, some not so good, and others perhaps – well, let’s not go there! So how do you go about picking the right tool for the job.
First, are you just looking for a CAT (Cable Avoidance Tool) alone or are you planning to use it in conjunction with a Genny (Signal Generator)? All right, that may seem like a silly question, because a CAT used on its’ own can only detect live power cables with a current flowing through them. So, for example, if you are trying to locate a cable after dark with the streetlights on, then you should be able to locate the cable. However, if you are trying to locate the same cable during daylight hours when the lights are off you probably won’t be able to locate it.
Therefore, if you know that you will only ever be looking for cables with power running through them, then a CAT can be sufficient. However, that is really not a likely set of circumstance, so the fact is that you will need a Genny as well.
When used in conjunction with the Genny, a CAT will be able to locate plastic pipes, water pipes, gas pipes, sewage pipes, telecoms, and so on.
You also need to consider the distances over which you will be working. This is because the industry standard CATs operate using frequencies of 8khz and 33khz. However, some models can also use two additional frequencies which will let you detect services over much longer distances. This can actually save a lot of time on a survey over long distances because there is no need to keep relocating the Genny as you move further away.
You also need to consider whether you need to measure depth. Some models only show the lateral position of a service, while more advanced ones can show the depth.
So, as you can see, investing in a CAT and Genny needs careful thought.
Whatever type of CAT and Genny you choose, you will need training in their use. At Sygma Solutions our business is providing CAT and Genny training so that operatives can understand how these tools work in all their modes, and critically, the fact that even the best of them do have certain limitations.
If the course you are looking for has no dates or you would like a course built for your company please contact
enquiries@sygma-solutions.com for current availability and booking form
Open Days
Please contact us about open days
PAS128 Utility Mapping Training Modules mapped to CICES competencies
– 2 days
Module 1 – Pas 128 Level D &C training to include level 3 assessment – CICES GEUS01 A-D
– 3 Days
Module 2 – PAS128 Level B Training – can include Level 4 assessment – CICES GUES01 E-I
Please contact enquires@sygma-solutions.com for future dates and a booking form
2 Day Advanced EM Course (RD8100/8200 & VIVAX)
In depth course covering electromagnetic locators, theory and intensive practical on our real world training site.
Cost: £295 per person
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre, Wigan
30th – 31st May 2024
23rd – 24th July 2024
5th – 6th September 2024
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre, Wigan
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1 Day Mala GPR Module 1 – Theory & Practical
Cost: FOC
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre, Wigan
Dates: Contact Us
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1 Day Mala GPR Module 2 – Post processing
Cost: FOC
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre, Wigan
Dates: Contact Us
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2 Day GPR – All Manufacturers
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre, Wigan
Dates: Contact Us
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5 Day TSA & ICES Approved 5 Day Utility Mapping Course
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre, Wigan
Dates: Contact Us
Location: Worcester
Dates: Contact Us
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1 Day Public Genny & CAT Course – Can include ProQual Level 2 Qualification as an option
Cost: £175 plus VAT
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre, Wigan
Dates:
Please contact us for future dates and a booking form
Level 3 Utility Mapping Qualification – All Online
Cost: £275 PLUS REG FEE
Location: Online
Dates: To suit
Level 5 Diploma Utility Mapping Qualification – Online Workbooks – followed by assessment
Cost £1100 PLUS REG FEE
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre or your site
Dates: To suit
Open level 5 assessment dates at Sygma Solutions, Wigan
Level 5 Diploma Utility Mapping Qualification – in 5 days
Cost – contact us
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre, Wigan
Dates:
3rd – 7th June 2024
1st – 5th July 2024
Sygma PAS 128 Utility Surveyor Training Including Proqual Level 3 Utility Mapping and Surveying
Please contact us for future dates and a booking form
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre, Wigan
15th – 19th April 2024 Limited spaces available
20th – 24th May 2024
10th – 14th June 2024
8th – 12th July 2024
Level 3 Utility Mapping and Surveying Public Course
24th – 25th June 2024
1st – 2nd July 2024
24th – 25th September 2024
Location: Sygma Solutions training centre, Wigan
GPS Course & Total Station Introduction
This is a 2 day dedicated GPS course with an introduction to Total Station
Please contact us for future dates and a booking form
Please contact enquires@sygma-solutions.com for future dates and a booking form
Please contact:
enquiries@sygma-solutions.com for current availability and booking form