Introduction
The Zircon StudSensor Pro LCD is an electronic stud finder designed to quickly and easily locate the edges of wood and metal studs and joists behind walls, floors, and ceilings. It features an easy-to-read display, the patented SpotLite Pointing System, and Wire Warning detection for live AC-Voltage.
Safety Information
- Always exercise caution when scanning walls, ceilings, and floors that may contain electrical wiring or plumbing.
- The Wire Warning detection indicates the presence of live, unshielded electrical wiring. Shielded wires may not be detected.
- Do not rely solely on the stud finder to avoid hazards. Always turn off power to circuits before cutting or drilling into walls.
- This tool is intended for indoor use only.
Package Contents
- Zircon StudSensor Pro LCD Tool
- Instruction Manual (this document)
- How-to Z-Card
Product Features
- Stud Scan Mode: Locates edges of wood or metal studs up to 3/4 inch (19 mm) deep.
- DeepScan Mode: Doubles scanning depth to 1-1/2 inches (38 mm) for thicker walls.
- Easy-to-Read LCD Display: Clearly indicates stud edges and other information.
- Patented SpotLite Pointing System: Shines a beam of light on the wall to identify the target.
- Audio Tone: Provides audible alerts when a stud edge is reached.
- Wire Warning Detection: Indicates the presence of live, unshielded electrical wiring up to 2 inches (51 mm) deep.
- "Over-the-Stud" Indicator: Alerts the user if scanning begins over a stud, prompting a new starting location.
- TruCal Technology: Calibrates to any wall's density, with an icon indicating readiness.
Figure 1: Front view of the Zircon StudSensor Pro LCD, showing the display, mode switch, and the SpotLite beam.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
- Open the battery compartment cover located on the back of the unit.
- Insert a new 9V alkaline battery, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
2. Power On and Calibration
- Place the tool flat against the wall where you intend to scan. Ensure it is not over a stud or dense material.
- Press and hold the Power Button. The unit will emit a short beep, and the TruCal icon will appear on the LCD, indicating calibration.
- Keep the tool flat against the wall and still until the TruCal icon disappears and the unit beeps again, signaling successful calibration.
- If the "over-the-stud" indicator appears, release the Power Button, move the tool to a different location, and recalibrate.
Operating Instructions
1. Selecting a Scan Mode
Use the slide switch on the front of the tool to select either Stud Scan or DeepScan mode.
Figure 2: Side view of the Zircon StudSensor Pro LCD, highlighting the mode selection switch.
2. Scanning for Studs
- After calibration, keep the Power Button pressed and slowly slide the tool horizontally across the wall surface.
- As the tool approaches a stud, the LCD display will show increasing bars, indicating proximity.
- When the tool detects the edge of a stud, the SpotLite Pointing System will illuminate, an audio tone will sound, and the "EDGE" indicator will appear on the LCD. Mark this spot.
- Continue sliding past the stud until the indicators turn off. Then, slide back from the opposite direction to locate the other edge of the stud. Mark this second spot.
- The center of the stud is typically between these two marked edges.
Figure 3: A user operating the Zircon StudSensor Pro LCD on a wall to locate studs.
3. Wire Warning Detection
The Wire Warning detection icon will appear on the LCD and an audible alert will sound if live, unshielded AC electrical wiring is detected within approximately 2 inches (51 mm) of the wall surface. This feature is active in both Stud Scan and DeepScan modes.
Warning: Always turn off power to circuits before drilling or cutting into walls.
Maintenance
- Keep the tool clean and dry. Wipe with a soft, damp cloth if necessary. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Remove the battery if the tool will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage.
- Store the tool in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit does not power on. | Dead or incorrectly installed battery. | Replace with a fresh 9V alkaline battery, ensuring correct polarity. |
| Inaccurate readings or "over-the-stud" indicator appears frequently. | Improper calibration; scanning over dense material or a stud. | Release the Power Button, move the tool to a different, clear spot on the wall, and recalibrate. Ensure the tool is flat against the wall during calibration. |
| Wire Warning detection is always on or erratic. | Presence of live wiring, or interference from other electronic devices. | Confirm if live wiring is present. Move away from other electronics. Recalibrate in a different area. |
| Cannot find studs. | Wall material too thick; studs are deeper than scan depth; unusual wall construction. | Switch to DeepScan mode. Try scanning from multiple directions. Note that some materials (e.g., lath and plaster, metallic wallpaper) can interfere with detection. |
Specifications
- Model: SS Pro LCD
- Stud Scan Depth: Up to 3/4 inch (19 mm)
- DeepScan Depth: Up to 1-1/2 inches (38 mm)
- style="color:#333333;">Wire Warning Detection Depth: Up to 2 inches (51 mm) for live, unshielded AC wires
- Power Source: 9V alkaline battery (not included)
- Operating Temperature: 20°F to 120°F (-7°C to 49°C)
- Storage Temperature: -20°F to 150°F (-29°C to 66°C)
- Dimensions: Approximately 6 x 12 x 4 inches (15.2 x 30.5 x 10.2 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 9.6 ounces (272 grams) without battery
- Material: Plastic
- Color: Yellow
Warranty and Support
Limited Warranty
Zircon Corporation warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover damage due to misuse, abuse, or normal wear and tear.
Customer Support
For technical assistance or warranty claims, please visit the official Zircon website or contact their customer service department.
