Duokon MY6818 Cable Locator Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Duokon MY6818 Cable Locator is a professional instrument designed for tracing and locating cables in various environments. It is capable of detecting buried and hidden cables, identifying open circuits and short circuits, and tracing metal pipes. This device is an essential tool for electrical maintenance personnel, offering reliable performance for a wide range of applications.

Key features include:

• Compact, robust, and portable design.
• Integrated DC/AC voltmeter in the transmitter for measuring voltages from 12 V to 400 V AC or DC.
• Effective for locating cables, electrical lines, and water/gas supply lines within walls or underground.
• Capable of detecting open circuits and short circuits.
• Receiver sensitivity can be adjusted manually or automatically.
• Transmitter features a self-check function.
• Audio feedback on both transmitter and receiver.
• Depth measurement for cables up to 2.5 meters (wall/ground).

2. Safety Information

Please read all safety instructions carefully before using the Duokon MY6818 Cable Locator. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or personal injury.

• Always ensure the device is used within its specified voltage range (12V-400V AC/DC).
• Do not use the device on live circuits exceeding the maximum rated voltage.
• Inspect the device and its accessories for any damage before each use. Do not use if damaged.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with electrical systems.
• Ensure proper grounding when connecting the transmitter to a circuit.
• Keep the device away from water and moisture.
• Do not attempt to repair or modify the device. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.
• Remove batteries if the device will not be used for an extended period.

3. Package Contents

The Duokon MY6818 Cable Locator package typically includes the following items:

Image: Complete kit contents of the Duokon MY6818 Cable Locator.

• 1 x Transmitter (MY6818T)
• 1 x Receiver (MY6818R)
• 1 x User Manual
• 1 x Grounding Rod
• 2 x Test Pens (Red and Black)
• 2 x Clamps (Red and Black)
• 2 x 1.5m Measuring Lines (Red and Black)
• 1 x Cloth Carrying Bag

4. Product Overview

4.1 Transmitter (MY6818T) and Receiver (MY6818R)

Image: The Duokon MY6818 Transmitter (right) and Receiver (left).

The device consists of two main units: the Transmitter and the Receiver. The Transmitter injects a signal into the cable, which the Receiver then detects to trace its path.

4.2 Controls and Ports

Image: Detailed view of Transmitter and Receiver controls.

Transmitter (MY6818T) Features:

• LCD Screen: Displays voltage, signal level, and other information.
• Power On/Off Key: To turn the unit on or off.
• Setting/Confirming Transmission Power Level: Adjusts signal strength.
• Transmitting or Stopping: Initiates or halts signal transmission.
• Setting/Confirming Code Transformation: Selects the signal code.
• Flashlight: For illumination in dark areas.
• Mute Mode: Silences audio alerts.
• '+' Hole / GroundHole: Connection points for test leads and grounding.

Receiver (MY6818R) Features:

• Probehead: The sensing part of the receiver.
• LCD Screen: Displays signal intensity, mode, battery status, etc.
• Power On/Off: To turn the unit on or off.
• Adjust Sensitivity Up/Down (Manual Mode): Fine-tunes detection sensitivity.
• UAC Key: Switches between manual and automatic cable detection modes.
• Flashlight: For illumination.
• Loudspeaker: Provides audio feedback for signal detection.

4.3 Receiver Display Explanation

Image: Receiver display with numbered indicators.

1. Symbol indicating the receiver's battery voltage/energy.
2. Symbol indicating the transmitter's battery voltage/energy.
3. Received transmitting power level (Level I, II, or III).
4. Symbol for manual mode.
5. Symbol for automatic mode.
6. In automatic mode, this number indicates signal intensity; in manual mode, this displays "SEL" to indicate no signal or a number indicating signal intensity; in UAC mode, this displays "UAC".
7. Concentric circles in graphics: More circles indicate higher sensitivity, fewer circles indicate lower sensitivity.
8. Code received.
9. Intensity of signals.
10. Symbol indicating mains voltage.
11. Symbol indicating mute mode.

5. Specifications

6. Setup

6.1 Battery Installation

Both the Transmitter and Receiver units require batteries for operation. Refer to the battery compartment markings for the correct battery type and polarity. Typically, the transmitter uses a 9V battery, and the receiver uses AAA batteries (not included).

Image: Battery compartment of the transmitter.

1. Locate the battery compartment on the back of each unit.
2. Open the compartment cover.
3. Insert the batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

6.2 Connecting the Transmitter

The transmitter must be connected to the circuit or cable you wish to trace. There are several connection methods:

• Direct Connection: For de-energized circuits, connect the test leads directly to the cable ends.
• Clamp Connection: For live circuits (within voltage limits), use the provided clamps to connect to the cable.
• Grounding: For optimal performance, especially when tracing underground or long cables, connect the grounding rod to the transmitter's ground terminal and insert it into the earth.

Image: Connection ports on the transmitter.

7. Operating Instructions

7.1 Powering On/Off

Press the Power On/Off button on both the Transmitter and Receiver units to turn them on. Press and hold the button to turn them off.

7.2 Transmitter Operation

1. Voltage Measurement: When connected to a live circuit, the transmitter's LCD will display the measured AC/DC voltage.
2. Signal Transmission: Press the "START/STOP" button to begin transmitting the signal.
3. Power Level Adjustment: Use the "LEVEL SEL" buttons to adjust the transmission power (Level I, II, or III) based on the tracing distance and environment. Higher levels are for longer distances or deeper cables.
4. Code Selection: Use the "CODE SEL" buttons to select a specific signal code. This is useful when multiple transmitters are in use to avoid interference.

7.3 Receiver Operation (Tracing Cables)

1. Select Mode: Use the "UAC" button to switch between manual and automatic detection modes.
   • Automatic Mode: The receiver automatically adjusts sensitivity.
   • Manual Mode: Allows you to fine-tune sensitivity using the "LEVEL" buttons for precise tracing.
2. Trace the Cable: Hold the receiver's probehead near the suspected path of the cable. Move it slowly along the path. The LCD screen will display signal intensity, and the loudspeaker will emit an audible tone. The signal intensity and tone will be strongest directly over the cable.
3. Depth Measurement: The receiver can estimate the depth of the cable (0-2.5m). Refer to the display for this reading.
4. Detecting Breaks/Shorts: Follow the cable path. A sudden loss of signal or a significant change in signal intensity can indicate a break or short circuit.
5. Identifying Fuses: When tracing circuits, the receiver can help identify the correct fuse by detecting the signal passing through it.
6. Flashlight: Press the flashlight button for illumination in low-light conditions.

8. Applications

The Duokon MY6818 Cable Locator is suitable for a variety of applications, including:

Image: Examples of cable tracing applications.

• Tracing communication cables, electrical cables, and telecommunication cables.
• Locating power lines and water/gas supply lines within walls or underground.
• Detecting open circuits and short circuits in electrical installations.
• Identifying fuses and assigning circuits in distribution boxes.
• Troubleshooting underfloor heating systems for interruptions or short circuits.
• Locating buried and hidden cables, including pet fence wires and metal pipes.

9. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the device and its accessories in the provided carrying bag in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Battery Replacement: Replace batteries promptly when the low battery indicator appears on the display. Remove batteries if the device is not used for extended periods to prevent leakage.

10. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Duokon MY6818 Cable Locator, consider the following:

• No Power: Check battery installation and ensure batteries are fresh.
• No Signal/Weak Signal:
  • Ensure the transmitter is properly connected to the circuit and powered on.
  • Increase the transmitter's power level.
  • Adjust the receiver's sensitivity, especially in manual mode.
  • Ensure proper grounding for the transmitter.
  • Check for breaks or shorts in the cable being traced.
• Inaccurate Readings: Ensure the receiver is held correctly and moved slowly. Environmental factors (e.g., other electrical interference) can affect accuracy.

For persistent issues, contact customer support.

11. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact Duokon customer service through their official channels. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.