Locating transmitters and signal generators
A transmitter – also known as a signal generator – applies a clean, stably guided locating signal to the line. What matters is not whether a signal is present, but how well it can be guided in the field. The difference comes down to the right frequency strategy and power-stable coupling.
What matters in a transmitter
For the locating signal to travel cleanly along the route and be reliably evaluated at the receiver, several factors must work together:
- Frequency strategy: Low frequencies for long, directional range; higher frequencies to deliberately pick up branch lines.
- Output power as required: Finely adjustable – from short stub lines to long routes.
- Signal quality: Clean modulation and clear feedback at the receiver provide unambiguous peaks.
- Power in the field: Battery operation or mains supply with runtime reserve to last the whole working day.
Guiding the locating signal precisely
With the right choice of frequency and power-stable coupling, you guide the locating signal in a controlled manner along the line and achieve clear, easily interpretable results at the receiver.
1 to 10 (from a total of 10)
What makes a good transmitter?
A high-performance transmitter delivers clean coupling, suitable frequencies and sufficient output power. This keeps the signal clearly traceable even in congested, urban environments – over longer distances and at typical burial depths.
Coupling methods for the transmitter
- Direct coupling: highest efficiency via connection and earth leads
- Signal clamp: contactless feeding and identification of individual conductors
- Induction: contactless coupling when no direct access is possible
Frequencies & power
Choosing the right frequency and power level determines how reliably a route can be traced:
- Low (512/640 Hz, ~1 kHz): deep, long and well-earthed conductors
- Medium (8–9 kHz): well balanced for mixed environments
- High (33 kHz): universal; couples well to short or interrupted conductors
- Power levels: adjust to cable length, depth and return current path
Selecting the right transmitter
- Application: route tracing, service connections, identification, earth and sheath faults (with A-frame)
- Compatibility: select a frequency set matched to the receiver
- Current path: ensure good earthing and suitable connection cables
- Ergonomics: display, keypad, weight and protection rating
- Power supply: battery or rechargeable battery, runtime and charging options
Practical tips for working with the transmitter
- Always check and optimise the possible return current path
- Compare signal quality and change mode or frequency if necessary
- Document measurement points and verify them in sections
Frequently asked questions about the transmitter
Which coupling method is the most efficient?
Direct coupling – it provides the strongest, directional signal flow.
What do I use the pulse/warble mode for?
To better distinguish signals in multiple routes and in the presence of interference fields.
What power do I need?
For short or near-surface lines, low power is sufficient; for long, deep routes or poor earthing, higher power is recommended.
Can I locate plastic pipes?
Not directly – locating is possible using tracer wire, a sonde or a traceable locating snake.
Frequently asked questions
General1
Who are the products intended for?
Our range is aimed at specialist companies and organisations in the utilities and civil-engineering sector – including municipal utilities, water suppliers, energy utilities (EVU), construction companies, municipalities, telecommunications companies, engineering offices and technical service providers.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Orders & Shipping12
Can I place an order by phone? Can I order by phone? Ordering by phone
Yes, you can also order by phone. Call us at +43 (0) 2252 53169 (Mon–Thu 08:00–17:00, Fri 08:00–12:00) and our team will be happy to take your order.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
What delivery time can I expect?
The delivery time shown for each item applies; our shipping and payment terms also list the usual times per country. Delivery times are not binding unless we have expressly confirmed a date as binding in writing (e-mail is sufficient). Express shipping is available on request.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Can I order as a private individual?
SEMPERDEAL is intended exclusively for commercial (business) customers. Unfortunately, private individuals cannot register or open an account.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
What should I do if I received the wrong item?
If you ever receive the wrong item, please let us know immediately – by email to kontakt@semperdeal.com, including your order number and a photo of the delivery. We'll then arrange an exchange right away.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Can I cancel an order?
Yes. As long as your order has not yet been shipped, you can cancel it. Please contact us as soon as possible by email at kontakt@semperdeal.com or by phone at +43 (0) 2252 53169.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
How do I change my delivery address?
You can enter a different delivery address during checkout. For changes after ordering, contact us before dispatch: kontakt@semperdeal.com
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Which countries do you ship to?
We deliver to all EU countries and to Switzerland. Delivery to other countries is available on request – simply contact us at kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
How do I see whether an item is available?
Availability is shown directly on the respective product page. If an item is marked "on request", we'll be happy to tell you the current delivery time at kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Are bulk or large orders possible?
Bulk orders are always welcome. For larger volumes we're happy to offer a quantity discount – simply request your quote at kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Do you offer express shipping?
Yes, express shipping is available on request. We'll gladly let you know the options and costs – just call us at +43 (0) 2252 53169 or email kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
How can I check the status of my order?
You can check the current status of your order at any time in your customer account once you are logged in. If you have any questions, please contact us – ideally with your order number – at kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
How do I place an order?
It's easy: select the product you want in our online shop, add it to your cart and complete the checkout. Just follow the steps for shipping and payment – you'll then receive an order confirmation by email. Of course, we're also happy to take your order personally: write to us at kontakt@semperdeal.com or give us a call.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Payment & Invoicing4
Can I buy on account?
Purchase on account is available to registered B2B customers following a successful credit check. To have it activated, simply contact us at kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Do you offer leasing or financing?
For selected devices we offer leasing and financing options. We'll be happy to discuss the details and suitable terms with you: kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
What happens if an invoice is overdue?
If an invoice is overdue, you'll first receive a friendly payment reminder. For questions about open items, contact us at kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Which payment methods do you offer?
The available payment methods are advance payment (bank transfer), instant bank transfer (Sofort) and purchase on account. Purchase on account is reserved for registered B2B customers following a successful credit check. Leasing/financing is available on request: kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Prices & Discounts4
How can I see the prices?
As a B2B shop, we display our prices in the customer area after you log in. All prices are net, plus VAT. For selected products, prices are also visible without logging in – i.e. for guests. For special conditions, please contact us at kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Do you offer used or demo devices?
From time to time we offer tested used and demo devices. As availability varies, it's best to ask us directly about current offers: kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Are there quantity discounts or graduated prices?
Yes. Depending on the product and order quantity, quantity discounts and graduated prices are possible. We'll be happy to prepare your individual quote: kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Do you offer project pricing or framework agreements?
For large projects we offer individual project pricing and framework agreements. Just tell us about your project – we'll prepare a tailored offer for you: kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Account & Registration1
How long does account activation take?
Your B2B account is activated after a brief review, usually within one business day. If it ever takes longer, feel free to contact us at kontakt@semperdeal.com.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Returns & Warranty2
Can I return or exchange products?
No. SEMPERDEAL sells to businesses only; there is no right of withdrawal or return, not even for unused goods in their original packaging. If goods are defective or we have delivered the wrong item, please notify us without delay after delivery at kontakt@semperdeal.com; we will then tell you how to proceed. Please never send goods back unannounced.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
What should I do if the goods arrive damaged?
Please document any transport damage immediately with photos and report it within 24 hours to kontakt@semperdeal.com. That way we can process the damage quickly for you.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
Technical Consulting1
Which device is right for my application?
We're happy to help. Just describe your application and we'll recommend the right device for you. You can reach us by email at kontakt@semperdeal.com, via chat, or by phone at +43 (0) 2252 53169.
Was this helpful?Thanks for your feedback!
No matching answer found
Try different wording – or ask us your question below.
Question not found?
Ask us directly — we answer personally.