LMX100 User’s Guide

2011-00184-00
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 Table of Contents

1. Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 1
2. System Assembly ........................................................................................................................ 3
3. Getting Started ............................................................................................................................. 7
3.1. Using the Display Unit .......................................................................................................... 7
3.2. System Settings Screen ....................................................................................................... 8
3.2.1. Scan ..................................................................................................................... 8
3.2.2. Language .............................................................................................................. 8
3.2.3. Units ..................................................................................................................... 8
3.2.4. Scale .................................................................................................................... 9
3.2.5. Date .................................................................................................................... 10
3.2.6. Time ................................................................................................................... 10
3.2.7. Odometer Calibration .......................................................................................... 10
3.2.8. Power Off............................................................................................................ 11
3.2.9. System Information ............................................................................................. 11
3.3. Scanning Screen ............................................................................................................... 12
3.3.1. Saving Screen Images ........................................................................................ 12
3.3.2. Adding Markers to Images................................................................................... 13
3.3.3. Backing Up to Locate Targets ............................................................................. 13
3.3.4. Pausing Data Collection ...................................................................................... 13
3.4. Locating Screen ................................................................................................................. 14
3.4.1. Locating Cursor................................................................................................... 14
3.4.2. Soil Type ............................................................................................................. 14
3.4.3. Identifying Air Wave Reflections .......................................................................... 18
3.5. Image Settings Screen ....................................................................................................... 19
3.5.1. Scan ................................................................................................................... 19
3.5.2. Clear Image ........................................................................................................ 20
3.5.3. Color ................................................................................................................... 20
3.5.4. Gain .................................................................................................................... 21
3.5.5. Filter ................................................................................................................... 22
3.5.6. Depth .................................................................................................................. 23
3.5.7. Quit ..................................................................................................................... 23
3.6. Changing the Date and Time ............................................................................................. 24
3.7. English and Equivalent Icons ............................................................................................. 25
3.7.1. System Settings Screen Menu ............................................................................ 25
3.7.2. Locating Screen Menu ........................................................................................ 26
3.7.3. Image Settings Screen Menu .............................................................................. 26
3.7.4. Date and Time Menus ......................................................................................... 27
4. Surveying Technique................................................................................................................. 29
4.1. Limitations ......................................................................................................................... 29
5. Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................................ 31
5.1. Power ................................................................................................................................ 31
5.2. System Communications ................................................................................................... 31
5.3. System Overheating .......................................................................................................... 31
5.4. Display Unit Problem ......................................................................................................... 32
5.5. Wobbly Wheels .................................................................................................................. 32
5.6. Test Line............................................................................................................................ 32
5.7. Contacting the Vendor for Service ...................................................................................... 32
6. Care and Maintenance ............................................................................................................... 33
6.1. Battery Care ...................................................................................................................... 33
6.2. Cable Care ........................................................................................................................ 33
 6.3. Skid Pad ............................................................................................................................ 34
6.4. Odometer .......................................................................................................................... 34
7. Using LMX ImageView Software ............................................................................................... 35
Appendix A ............................................................................................................................................ 1
Health & Safety Certification ....................................................................................................... 1
Appendix B ............................................................................................................................................ 1
GPR Emissions, Interference and Regulations .......................................................................... 1
FCC Regulations ................................................................................................................. 1
ETSI Regulations for the EC (European Community) ....................................................... 5
Industry Canada Regulations - English ............................................................................. 6
Règlement d'Industrie Canada - Français.......................................................................... 7
Appendix C ............................................................................................................................................ 1
Instrument Interference ............................................................................................................... 1
Appendix D ............................................................................................................................................ 1
Safety Around Explosive Devices ............................................................................................... 1
LMX100 User’s Guide 1 - Overview

1. Overview
Congratulations on purchasing the LMX100, the locate & mark, cart-based GPR system optimized for
utility locating. The system is so simple and user-friendly that you will be finding targets in minutes.

This manual describes everything you need to assemble the system, change the settings and start
scanning. There is also a section describing the proper technique for locating utilities for maximum
productivity.

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1 - Overview LMX100 User’s Guide

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LMX100 User’s Guide 2 – System Assembly

2. System Assembly
1) Open the main box; remove the accessory box, cart base, cart handle and GPR sensor box. Open
each box and lay out all the components.

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2 – System Assembly LMX100 User’s Guide

2) Attach the Cart Handle to Cart Base using the Handle Pins. Ensure the Display Unit (DVL) Mount
is facing upwards.

3) Attach the Sensor to the Cart using the Sensor Support Straps. Ensure the Sensor is oriented the
correct way with the connections toward the back of the Cart. Using the Sensor Support Straps,
adjust the height of the Sensor so it is 1-2 cm (½ – ¾ inch) above the ground. The best way to get
a uniform Sensor height is to place a couple of sheets of thick cardboard, particle board or
Styrofoam under the sensor before securing the Sensor Support Straps.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 2 - System Assembly

4) Attach the Display Unit to the Display Unit Mount on the Cart. Depress the flexible clip and slide
the Display Unit back far enough so the clip catches and secures it firmly in place. Adjust the angle
of the Display Unit by loosening the hand-screws underneath the Display Unit Mount, rotating the
Display Unit to the desired angle and tightening the hand-screws. This ensures the Display Unit
does not rotate and damage the Display Cable.

5) Attach the Display Cable to the back of the Display Unit with the jackscrews. Connect the other
end of the cable to the Sensor. Ensure the cable is routed correctly; above the lower cross arm on
the Cart Handle and under the Battery tray.

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2 – System Assembly LMX100 User’s Guide

6) If the optional LMX ImageView Software Kit was purchased with the LMX100, with the system
powered down, the Compact Flash (CF) memory card should be carefully inserted into the top
compartment of the Display Unit. Loosen both thumbscrews on the door and open it by rotating it.

7) Attach the Odometer and Battery Cables:

The Odometer Cable connects to the closest receptacle on the Sensor.

Attach the Battery Cable to the Sensor and the Battery.

The upper red light on the Display Unit will illuminate indicating that there is power available for the
system. The system is now ready to use.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.1 – Using the Display Unit

3. Getting Started
3.1. Using the Display Unit
The Display Unit has eight buttons numbered 1 to 8, larger Pause and Camera buttons as well as buttons
to increase and decrease the screen Contrast and Brightness.

Turn on the system by pressing any button on front of the Display Unit. Both red lights will illuminate and
after few seconds, the splash screen and menu will appear.

Compact Flash card compartment

Buttons
Menu

Pause
Scanning Capture
Image

The menu option on the screen above the button indicates its function.

To operate the system:

a) The first screen displayed when the system is powered on is the System Settings Screen. It has
options to start scanning or change settings such as language, measurement units, date, time and
odometer calibration (see Section 3.2).
b) To start scanning, press Scan to display the Scanning Screen. When the scale appears on the
right side of the screen, push the cart. The data image scrolls across the screen from the right (see
Section 3.3).
c) Stop and back up to see the Locating Screen (see Section 3.4) to mark the exact position of a
target on the ground and to access the menu to estimate its depth.
d) When you push the cart forward again and reach the point where you originally stopped and
backed up, the system will automatically start scanning again. Or press Clear Screen to start
fresh.
e) At any time press the Pause button to change Depth, Color, Gain etc. using the Image Settings
Screen (see Section 3.5) then press Scan (or Pause again) to continue.

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3.2 - System Settings Screen LMX100 User’s Guide

f) If the optional LMX ImageView Software Kit was purchased and a Compact Flash (CF) card is
present in the top compartment of the Display Unit, pressing the Camera button saves the current
screen image to the CF card. Later, images are transferred to a PC for plotting and printing using
the LMX ImageView software (see Section 7).

3.2. System Settings Screen

3.2.1. Scan
Press the Scan button to start scanning (see Section 3.3).

3.2.2. Language
Select the language for the menus. Current options are English, Chinese or Icons. This manual
generally uses the English menus. See Section 3.7 for a chart showing all the equivalent icons.

3.2.3. Units
Units for the Position Axis, Depth Axis and Depth Indicator can be either Meters or Feet.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.2 – System Settings Screen

3.2.4. Scale
The Scale button toggles to four different Scale options:

1) Lines means Depth Lines are plotted on the data image to assist with determining the depth
of targets (also see Section 3.3).

2) Text means Depth Values are plotted in the center of the data image every 8 meters or 26
feet:

3) Both means both Depth Lines and Values are plotted on the data image:

4) Off means no Depth Lines and Values are plotted on the data image.

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3.2 - System Settings Screen LMX100 User’s Guide

3.2.5. Date
Opens the Date Screen to change the current date (see Section 3.5). Images are saved with this date.

3.2.6. Time
Opens the Time Screen to change the current date (see Section 3.5). Images are saved with this time.

3.2.7. Odometer Calibration

Opens a sub-menu to calibrate the odometer.

The odometer is factory calibrated but should be periodically calibrated for positional accuracy.

To calibrate the odometer, follow the steps as they appear on the screen:

1) Select the length of your odometer calibration distance: 1, 5, 10 or 20 meters or 3, 10, 30 or

60 feet (depending on the units (see Section 3.2.3). The default length is 10 meters or 30
feet. Set the GPR system at the starting position and press ‘8’.

2) Move the system the calibration distance; a red line rotates as you move to indicate that the
odometer is turning. Then press ‘8’.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.2 – System Settings Screen

3) This screen displays the new and old calibration values. Press ‘8’ to accept the new
calibration value or press ‘1’ to cancel out of the calibration and use the old value.

3.2.8. Power Off

Opens a sub-menu to confirm powering off the system. There is also an option to restore the system to
factory default settings.

3.2.9. System Information

The top of the Systems Setting Screen displays the serial number of the GPR sensor, the software
version number, the GPR Sensor frequency (in MHz) and the current battery voltage.

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3.3 – Scanning Screen LMX100 User’s Guide

3.3. Scanning Screen

After pressing the Scan button, wait a few seconds for the vertical depth scale to appear on the right side
of the screen, and then push the Cart forward.

A cross-sectional image of the ground scrolls onto the screen from the right to left. The position is
displayed on the horizontal axis at the top while the depth is displayed on the vertical axis. The position
and depth axes units are meters or feet depending on the units set in the Systems Setting Screen
(Section 3.2).

If the Scale or Both option is selected (Section 3.2), horizontal depth lines appear on the image to assist
with determining the depth of targets.

Approximately 16 meters or 50 feet of data is displayed on one screen. If the survey line exceeds this
distance the image will scroll off the left side of the screen.

3.3.1. Saving Screen Images

To save the current screen image to file, press the Camera button on the Display Unit (see Section 3.1).
The image number appears on the bottom of the screen with a message to press any button to continue.

A message will appear on the screen if there is no Compact Flash card in the Display Unit. Images are
only saved when a card is present.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.3 – System Settings Screen

3.3.2. Adding Markers to Images

Pressing any of the number buttons on the Display Unit marked 1 to 8 while scanning adds a numbered
marker at the current sensor position.

3.3.3. Backing Up to Locate Targets

Stopping and pulling the cart backwards along the same path automatically opens the Locating Screen
(see Section 3.4) used to pinpoint the position and depth of a target.

3.3.4. Pausing Data Collection

Pressing the Pause button opens the Image Settings Screen to change the current Color Palette,
Depth, Filter and Gain (see Section 3.5).

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3.4 – Locating Screen LMX100 User’s Guide

3.4. Locating Screen

The Locating Screen is accessed by stopping and pulling the cart backwards while scanning. The
cursor moves over the image and menu options appear at the bottom of the screen.

3.4.1. Locating Cursor

The Cursor consists of 3 parts:

Position Indicator Vertical cross-hair is tied to the odometer and corresponds to the location at
the center of the GPR sensor. As the cart is pulled backwards, the Position
Indicator moves to indicate the current location of the center of the GPR
sensor.

Depth Indicator Horizontal cross-hair found at the peak of the soil type indicator arch indicating
the depth. The Depth Indicator moves up or down using the Arch Up and
Down buttons.

Indicator Arch Idealized representation of a typical pipe-like target response observed on the
GPR image. The width of the arch is controlled by soil type setting. The soil
type setting is changed using the Arch buttons. Increasing the soil type makes
the indicator arch wider while decreasing the soil type makes it narrower.

3.4.2. Soil Type

To obtain an accurate depth axis and depth estimations of targets in the GPR image, a Soil Type
Calibration must be performed. Soil Type Calibration can be done 3 ways:

1) Matching the shape of a target arch,

2) Using a target at a known depth, or

3) Using the moisture level of the soil.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.4 – Locating Screen

Matching a Target Arch

Targets like pipes, cables, buried artifacts, tree roots and rocks generate arch-shaped responses on the
GPR image.

Arches occur because GPR energy does not travel into the ground as a pencil-thin beam but more like a
3D cone. Reflections can appear on the record even though the object is not directly below the GPR
sensor. Thus, the GPR sensor “sees” the pipe before and after going over top of it and forms an arch-
shaped response on the image.

Cross long, linear targets like pipes or cables at a 90 degree angle to produce a target arch suitable for
the soil type calibration. The depth estimation of a target will be incorrect if the soil type calibration is
done on a target arch produced at an oblique angle (smaller than 90 degrees).

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3.4 – Locating Screen LMX100 User’s Guide

To determine the Soil Type using a Target Arch:

1) With a target arch visible on the image, back the cart up until the Position Indicator is
centered on the target arch in the GPR image; preferably one with long tails because this
provides the most accurate soil type calibration.

2) As you slow down and stop, the Indicator Arch will appear on the data image.

3) Use the Up and Down Arrows to move the Indicator Arch shallower or deeper in the GPR
image respectively, until it lies overtop of the target arch.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.4 – Locating Screen

4) Press the Soil Type button and toggle through the five different soil types to find the one that
roughly fits the shape of the Indicator Arch to the shape of the Target Arch.

5) Use the Wide and Narrow Arch buttons to change the shape of the Indicator Arch to match
the shape of the Target Arch on the GPR image. The depth of the target is indicated on the
bottom left.

6) Press the Apply button to save the Soil Type and update the Depth Axis on the Scanning
Screen. The Depth Axis can now be used to estimate the depth of targets while scanning in
the area.

3.4.2.1. Target at Known Depth

If there are no suitable arches visible in the image to perform the Target Arch Matching described above,
there may be a target of known depth in the area being scanned.

To determine the Soil Type using a target at known depth:

1) With the target response visible on the image, use the Up and Down Arrows to move the
Depth Indicator (and Indicator Arch) until it lies on top of the GPR response of the known
target.
2) Use the Wide and Narrow Arch buttons to change the shape of the Indicator Arch until the
depth of the target, displayed in red above the menu, is correct.
3) Once the depth is matched, save the Soil Type value by pressing the Apply button.

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3.4 – Locating Screen LMX100 User’s Guide

3.4.2.2. Soil Moisture

If a good target arch or a target of known depth is not available, the user will have to estimate the Soil
Type. The soil type is most strongly affected by water so the soil type options relate to the amount of
water in the soil.
Change the soil type by pressing the Soil Moisture button until the option that best describes the soil in
the area is displayed. The options are Very Dry, Dry, Moist, Wet and Very Wet Soil.

3.4.3. Identifying Air Wave Reflections

Some arches in the image can be caused by objects that are not in the subsurface, such as posts,
fences, overhead wires and even trees.

An important part of understanding the data image is learning to recognize these unwanted “air” targets
and differentiate them from the targets in the ground.

One way of identifying air reflections is to use the target arch method described above. However, arches
from above-ground objects are wider than objects in the ground and out of the range of the maximum Soil
Type.

Therefore, if the widest Indicator Arch is still not wide enough to match the target arch, the target
arch is from on object in the air, not the ground.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.5 – Image Settings Screen

3.5. Image Settings Screen

The Image Settings Screen is accessed by pressing the Pause (||) button while in the Scanning Screen
or the Locating Screen. Menu options appear along the bottom of the screen:

3.5.1. Scan
To exit from the Image Settings Screen and resume Scanning, press the Scan button or the Pause (||)
button again (to unPause). The Scanning Screen returns at the current location with the position
information preserved.

If, while paused in the Image Settings Screen, the cart has moved more than a few centimeters, when
scanning is restarted, a gap called a Position Break will appear in the image. The position break is also
indicated by a message on the bottom of the screen and the Position Axis along the top of the data
image resetting to zero.

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3.5 – Image Settings Screen LMX100 User’s Guide

3.5.2. Clear Image

Deletes the current data image on the display.

3.5.3. Color
GPR images are displayed in colors corresponding to a color palette. In general, stronger GPR signals
appear in stronger colors. A number of different color palettes are available to display the image. Some
color palettes may show the target better than others.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.5 – Image Settings Screen

3.5.4. Gain
Since GPR signals are absorbed by the material being scanned, deeper targets have weaker signals.
Gain acts like an audio volume control, amplifying the signals and making deeper targets appear stronger
in the image. The Gain varies from 1 to 9 with 1 being no gain and 9 being the maximum gain.

As the Gain changes, the current image on the display updates so it is not necessary to re-collect an
image with a different gain setting. Use the lowest gain setting that shows the targets. Try to avoid over-
gaining as understanding the image may become more difficult.

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3.5 – Image Settings Screen LMX100 User’s Guide

3.5.5. Filter
The filter has the effect of removing flat-lying reflections in the image and enhancing the dipping
reflections and arches usually caused by targets. It can also assist in identifying very shallow targets that
might be masked by the strong signals at the top of the image.

The Filter defaults to ON, so if you are looking for a layer or other flat-lying target, turn the Filter OFF.

The image below shows the same scan with the Filter OFF and ON.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.5 – Image Settings Screen

3.5.6. Depth
The depth setting is an estimate of the total depth displayed on the Scanning Screen based on the
current Soil Type setting. The depth setting ranges from 1 to 8 meters (3 to 30 feet).

The system always collects data to a depth of approximately 8 meters (30 feet) but the Depth setting on
this menu determines how much of the data is displayed on the screen. It is possible to scan with a
Depth setting of, say 2 meters (6 feet), pause scanning and then increase the depth setting to re-display
the image to look for deeper targets.

3.5.7. Quit
Exits the Scanning and Image Settings Screens and returns to the Systems Settings Screen.

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3.6 –Changing the Date and Time LMX100 User’s Guide

3.6. Changing the Date and Time

From the System Settings Screen, select the Date option. The Time option is similar.

Use the Left and Right Arrow buttons to highlight the number to change in red.

Increase the number using the Up Arrow and decrease the number using the Down Arrow.

Pressing OK saves the new date or time and exits the screen.

Pressing Cancel exits the screen without saving the date or time.

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.7 – Icons

3.7. English and Equivalent Icons

3.7.1. System Settings Screen Menu

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3.7 – Icons LMX100 User’s Guide

3.7.2. Locating Screen Menu

3.7.3. Image Settings Screen Menu

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LMX100 User’s Guide 3.7 – Icons

3.7.4. Date and Time Menus

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3.7 – Icons LMX100 User’s Guide

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LMX100 User’s Guide 4 – Surveying Technique

4. Surveying Technique
The most common method of locating is cross and mark as you go. This method works well in favourable
soils and uncluttered settings. Cross and mark is very similar to the use of traditional current tracking
utility detectors. The Cart is moved along sweeps perpendicular to the anticipated utility axis (see figure
below). When the GPR sensor crosses the utility, the image shows an arch. The top of the arch is the
position of the utility. The depth to the top of the arch is an estimated depth.

By moving the GPR back and forth and marking the ground where the top of the arch is observed, the
alignment of the subsurface utility can be traced out (see the series of X’s in the figure below).

For example, a concrete storm sewer alignment was located under the road in the figure and data images
of lines 1, 2 and 3 below. The target arch visible on each scan clearly identifies the pipe alignment.

Notice that as the pipe gets deeper, the strength of the target arch gets weaker. This is a result of the
GPR signal being absorbed as it travels deeper into the subsurface. In all soil types eventually the GPR
signal will be completely absorbed and only the background radio noise in the area will be detected by the
GPR sensor. The noise is seen in the image a fuzzy signal like a TV station not properly received. To see
the deepest possible targets with a GPR, it is important to have a quiet, highly sensitive system.

4.1. Limitations
GPR is not without its limitations. GPR radio wave signals are absorbed by the ground with some soils
(clays, saline) greatly limiting exploration depth. GPR effectiveness is thus site specific and varies greatly
from place-to-place. GPR also responds to changes in soil type, density, water content, as well as many
other buried objects; making unique identification of the desired target difficult. (i.e. you cannot see the
individual tree in the middle of the forest).

29
4 – Surveying Technique LMX100 User’s Guide

30
LMX100 User’s Guide 5 - Troubleshooting

5. Troubleshooting
The LMX100 system is designed to minimize user problems; however, all electronic devices are subject
to possible failure. The following are troubleshooting hints in the likelihood of occurrence if your system
fails to operate.

5.1. Power
The most common problem that can occur while trying to run the system is insufficient power. The
battery may be dead, have a low voltage or the fuse may be blown.

If there is enough power to run the Display Unit, the upper red light on the front of the Display Unit will
illuminate when the battery is plugged in.

If the battery voltage is less than about 10.2 volts, the Display Unit may not turn on and the upper red light
will flash or not illuminate at all.

Check that battery voltage with a voltmeter. Try to do this while the system is still attached to the Cart to
get a true measure of the voltage while under load (it will be necessary to open the Cart battery case and
connect the voltmeter to the positive and negative battery terminals). If the battery has a low voltage or
seems dead, try the system with another battery (if available), or give the battery a good 12-14 hour
charge and try running the system again.

If the battery does not charge up to 12 Volts or more, it should be replaced.

Batteries are fused to protect the system. Open the battery case and check that the 10 Amp fuse is OK.
If necessary, replace it with one of the spare fuses available inside the battery case.

If the battery seems OK but the system still does not power up, check the battery cable connections and
inspect the battery cable for damage.

5.2. System Communications

If the battery is OK and the Display Unit turns on but the GPR sensor does not scan, there may be a
communication failure between the Display Unit and the GPR sensor. If an error occurs, an error
message will appear. Power Off the system and disconnect the battery.

Make sure the display cable is not damaged; all pins are straight and blow out the connector sockets as
small debris may block individual pin connections and disrupt communications. Ensure that the cable
connections are tightly secured. Sometimes vibrations cause the cable connections to loosen just a bit
and break contact and this can cause errors. Disconnecting the cable and reconnecting it may provide a
better contact and solve the problem. Plug in the battery, turn on the system and try scanning again.

If the battery, Battery Cable and Display Cable are OK, the problem is either a failure of the Display Unit
or the GPR sensor. These units have no user-serviceable parts so they will have to be returned to the
vendor for inspection and possible repair.

5.3. System Overheating

The GPR system is designed to operate to a maximum internal temperature of 70 C or 158 F. In
situations of high ambient temperatures or long exposure to direct sun, this maximum internal
temperature may be exceeded and cause the system to fail.

If you suspect that the GPR sensor is overheating, shut it off and give it a chance to cool down in a shady
location before trying to run it again. Placing a wet cloth on top of the GPR may help in cooling it down.

31
5 – Troubleshooting LMX100 User’s Guide

If the situation is such that the high temperatures or direct sun cannot be avoided, it may be a good idea
to put some sort of shade over the GPR sensor.

5.4. Display Unit Problem

While the Display Unit is weatherproof and fairly rugged, it should be handled in much the same way a
notebook computer is. If the Display Unit does not power up, there may be a problem with the CPU or
the storage media.

5.5. Wobbly Wheels

If, over time a wheel becomes wobbly, the wheel nut will need to be manually tightened.

Insert a large slotted screwdriver into the end of the axle (there’s already a slot there for it) and use a
large wrench to slightly tighten the wheel nut. The nut only has to be turned slightly, 1/8th -1/16th of a
turn is usually enough. Spin the wheel to make sure it’s still free and not too tight.

5.6. Test Line

One of the best ways of detecting problems with the system is, shortly after receiving the system and
getting comfortable with its operation, collect a line of data at a convenient, easily accessible location.
The line does not have to be too long but one screen (16 meters or 50 feet) is a good guide. This data
line should be saved electronically and perhaps plotted out on paper and dated. The test line could be
collected say, every 6 months and, by reviewing the previous data, system problems can be detected
early. As well, if there is a suspected problem with the system, this test line could be collected and
compared with earlier tests.

5.7. Contacting the Vendor for Service

When returning the system to the Vendor, have the following information available:

1) GPR sensor Serial Number displayed at the top of the System Settings Screen.
2) A brief description of when the error is happening and the operating conditions (temperature,
humidity, sunshine, system settings, etc.).

32
LMX100 User’s Guide 6 – Care and Maintenance

6. Care and Maintenance

6.1. Battery Care
The LMX100 uses a 9-Amp-hour, 12-Volt sealed lead acid battery. It is fused with a 10 Amp fuse to
protect it from short circuit damage.

The battery unit should run the LMX100 continuously for 6 hours before recharging is necessary. If long
days of data surveying are typical, a second battery unit may be a useful item.

The battery is strapped onto the cart base and is normally recharged without removing it from the cart.
However, the battery can be easily removed for maintenance or for recharging, if required.

If batteries are maintained in a charged condition they will give long life and reliable service. Improper use
and lack of maintenance will greatly reduce their life.

Sealed lead acid batteries should NEVER be left in a discharged condition for any period of time. Charge
the batteries as soon as possible after use.

Charge the battery at room temperature whenever possible.

The LMX100 has a voltage monitoring circuit that will turn off the unit when the input voltage drops below
10.2 volts.

If a battery has been deeply discharged or left in a discharged condition for some period of time it may not
accept charge immediately when it is connected to the charger (the fast charge light will not illuminate). If
the fast charge light does not come on within 6 hours the battery should be considered damaged and
should be discarded.

Do not assume that a battery that is still charging after 8 hours is nearing the end of its charge cycle.
Typical charging time for an empty battery is 12-14 hours from start of fast charge.

Ensure that the batteries are fully charged before storing. If practical, store the batteries in a cool place,
o o
10 c (a refrigerator is ideal), but make sure the temperature is not likely to drop below -30 C or the
electrolyte may freeze and possibly split the case.

6.2. Cable Care

1) The cable connectors as well as the connectors on the GPR Sensor and Display Unit need to stay
clean and free of dust and moisture. Use a brush or air spray to clean dust, lint and other foreign
particles from these connectors.
2) When the system is not being used, make sure the connections are protected to prevent dust and
moisture from collecting inside. If the connectors are exposed, cover them with some sort of dust
cap.
3) Cables are designed to be as tough as practical.
4) Careless use of cables making them carry loads that they are not designed for can cause internal
damage.
5) Connectors are weak points in any system. With the use of this product in rough, dusty and outdoor
environments, users can minimize potential down time if they care for cables and treat connectors
with respect.
6) Cables and connectors are not designed to suspend or tow or otherwise carry the weight of
systems. They are part of the electronic circuit and should be treated accordingly. When not in use
they should be placed in their storage box.

33
6 – Care and Maintenance LMX100 User’s Guide

6.3. Skid Pad

The bottom of the GPR Sensor is covered with one large wear-resistant skid pad. The skid pad is
designed to take the majority of the abrasive wear. If the pad wears down enough, the less-resistant
plastic housing may start to wear. If this occurs, it is best to replace the skid pad. It is easily removed with
a screwdriver and a new one can be purchased from the vendor.

6.4. Odometer
The odometer should be periodically calibrated (see xx) to ensure accuracy.

34
LMX100 User’s Guide 7 – Using LMX ImageView Software

7. Using LMX ImageView Software

If the optional LMX ImageView Software Kit was purchased with the LMX100, the LMX ImageView
software can be used to display, on a PC, the GPR data images captured and saved to a Compact Flash
(CF) card during data collection (see Section 3.1).

After transferring the images from the CF card to a PC, the LMX ImageView software makes it easy to
scroll through the GPR images to view ones of interest, print them, save them as graphic images files or
copy them to the clipboard for insertion into documents.

See the LMX ImageView software manual for details.

35
7 – Using LMX ImageView Software LMX100 User’s Guide

36
LMX100 User’s Guide Appendix A – Health & Safety Certification

Appendix A

Health & Safety Certification

Radio frequency electromagnetic fields may pose a health hazard when the fields are intense. Normal
fields have been studied extensively over the past 30 years with no conclusive epidemiology relating
electromagnetic fields to health problems. Detailed discussions on the subject are contained in the
references and the web sites listed below.

The USA Federal Communication Commission (FCC) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) both specify acceptable levels for electromagnetic fields. Similar power levels are mandated by
corresponding agencies in other countries. Maximum permissible exposures and time duration specified
by the FCC and OSHA vary with excitation frequency. The lowest threshold plane wave equivalent power
2
cited is 0.2 mW/cm for general population over the 30 to 300 MHz frequency band. All other applications
and frequencies have higher tolerances as shown in graphically in Figure B-1.

2
Figure B-1: FCC limits for maximum permissible exposure (MPE) plane-wave equivalent power density mW/cm .

All Sensors & Software Inc. GPR products are normally operated at least 1 m from the user and as such
are classified as “mobile” devices according to the FCC. Typical power density levels at a distance of 1 m
-3 2
or greater from any Sensors & Software Inc. product are less than 10 mW/cm which are 200 to 10,000
times lower than mandated limits. As such, Sensors & Software Inc. products pose no health and safety
risk when operated in the normal manner of intended use.

1
Appendix A – Health & Safety Certification LMX100 User’s Guide

References

Questions and answers about biological effects and potential hazards of radio-frequency electromagnetic
field.

USA Federal Communications Commission, Office of Engineering & Technology

OET Bulletin 56

(Contains many references and web sites)

Evaluation Compliance with FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electromagnetic
Fields.

USA Federal Communications Commission, Office of Engineering & Technology

OET Bulletin 56

(Contains many references and web sites)

USA Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations paragraph 1910.67 and 1910.263.

Web Sites

www.fcc.gov
www.osha-slc.gov (see radio frequency)

2
LMX100 User’s Guide Appendix B – GPR Emissions, Interference and Regulations

Appendix B

GPR Emissions, Interference and Regulations

All governments have regulations on the level of electromagnetic emissions that an electronic apparatus
can emit. The objective is to assure that one apparatus or device does not interfere with any other
apparatus or device in such a way as to make the other apparatus non-functional.

The manufacturer test their GPR products using independent professional testing houses and comply
with latest regulations of the USA, Canada, European Community, and other major jurisdictions on the
matter of emissions.

Electronic devices have not always been designed for proper immunity. If a GPR instrument is placed in
close proximity to an electronic device, interference may occur. While there have been no substantiated
reports of interference to date, if any unusual behavior is observed on nearby devices, test if the distur-
bance starts and stops when the GPR instrument is turned on and off. If interference is confirmed, stop
using the GPR.

Where specific jurisdictions have specific GPR guidelines, these are described below.

FCC Regulations
This device complies with Part 15 of the USA Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules.
Operation in the USA is subject to the following two conditions:

1. this device may not cause harmful interference and

2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

Part 15 – User Information

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, where
applicable, and for an ultrawide bandwidth (UWB) device where applicable, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is
likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at
his own expense.

WARNING
Changes or Modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to
operate the equipment.

Certification of this equipment has been carried out using approved cables and peripheral devices. The
use of non-approved or modified cables and peripheral devices constitutes a Change or Modification
outlined in the warning above.

1
Appendix B – GPR Emissions, Interference and Regulations LMX100 User’s Guide

Operating Restrictions
Operation of this device is limited to purposes associated with law enforcement, firefighting, emergency
rescue, scientific research, commercial mining, or construction. Parties operating this equipment must be
eligible for licensing under the provisions of Part 90 of this chapter.

FCC Interpretation of Operation Restrictions issued July 12, 2002

(FCC Order DA02-1658, paragraph 9)
The regulations contain restrictions on the parties that are eligible to operate imaging systems (See 47
C.F.R. 5.509(b), 15.511(b), and 15.513(b)). Under the new regulations, GPRs and wall imaging systems
may be used only by law enforcement, fire and emergency rescue organizations, by scientific research
institutes, by commercial mining companies, and by construction companies. Since the adoption of the
Order, we have received several inquiries from the operators of GPRs and wall imaging systems noting
that these devices often are not operated by the users listed in the regulations but are operated under
contract by personnel specifically trained in the operation of these devices. We do not believe that the
recent adoption of the UWB rules should disrupt the critical safety services that can be performed
effectively only through the use of GPRs and wall imaging systems. We viewed these operating
restrictions in the broadest of terms. For example, we believe that the limitation on the use of GPRs and
wall imaging systems by construction companies encompasses the inspection of buildings, roadways,
bridges and runways even if the inspection finds no damage to the structure and construction does not
actually result from the inspection; the intended purpose of the operation of the UWB device is to
determine if construction is required. We also believe that the GPRs and wall imaging systems may be
operated for one of the purposes described in the regulations but need not be operated directly by one of
the described parties. For example, a GPR may be operated by a private company investigating forensic
evidence for a local police department.

FCC Permitted Mode of Usage

The GPR antenna must be kept on the surface to be in compliance with FCC regulations. Use of the
antenna is not permitted if it is lifted off the surface. Use as a through-the-wall imaging device is
prohibited.

GPR Use Coordination

FCC regulation 15.525(c) (updated in February 2007) requires users of GPR equipment to coordinate the
use of their GPR equipment as described below:

TITLE 47--TELECOMMUNICATION

CHAPTER I--FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

PART 15_RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES

Subpart F_Ultra-Wideband Operation Sec.

15.525 Coordination requirements.

(a) UWB imaging systems require coordination through the FCC before the equipment may be used.
The operator shall comply with any constraints on equipment usage resulting from this coordination.

(b) The users of UWB imaging devices shall supply operational areas to the FCC Office of Engineering
and Technology, which shall coordinate this information with the Federal Government through the
National Telecommunications and Information Administration. The information provided by the UWB
operator shall include the name, address and other pertinent contact information of the user, the desired

2
LMX100 User’s Guide Appendix B – GPR Emissions, Interference and Regulations

geographical area(s) of operation, and the FCC ID number and other nomenclature of the UWB device. If
the imaging device is intended to be used for mobile applications, the geographical area(s) of operation
may be the state(s) or county(ies) in which the equipment will be operated. The operator of an imaging
system used for fixed operation shall supply a specific geographical location or the address at which the
equipment will be operated. This material shall be submitted to:

Frequency Coordination Branch, OET

Federal Communications Commission
th
445 12 Street, SW, Washington, D.C.
20554
Attn: UWB Coordination

(Sensors & Software Inc. Note: The form given on the following page is a suggested format for
performing the coordination.)

(c) The manufacturers, or their authorized sales agents, must inform purchasers and users of their sys-
tems of the requirement to undertake detailed coordination of operational areas with the FCC prior to the
equipment being operated.

(d) Users of authorized, coordinated UWB systems may transfer them to other qualified users and to
different locations upon coordination of change of ownership or location to the FCC and coordination with
existing authorized operations.

(e) The FCC/NTIA coordination report shall identify those geographical areas within which the
operation of an imaging system requires additional coordination or within which the operation of an
imaging system is prohibited. If additional coordination is required for operation within specific
geographical areas, a local coordination contact will be provided. Except for operation within these
designated areas, once the information requested on the UWB imaging system is submitted to the FCC
no additional coordination with the FCC is required provided the reported areas of operation do not
change. If the area of operation changes, updated information shall be submitted to the FCC following the
procedure in paragraph (b) of this section.

(f) The coordination of routine UWB operations shall not take longer than 15 business days from the
receipt of the coordination request by NTIA. Special temporary operations may be handled with an expe-
dited turn-around time when circumstances warrant. The operation of UWB systems in emergency situa-
tions involving the safety of life or property may occur without coordination provided a notification
procedure, similar to that contained in Sec. 2.405(a) through (e) of this chapter, is followed by the UWB
equipment user.[67 FR 34856, May 16, 2002, as amended at 68 FR 19751, Apr. 22, 2003]

Effective Date Note: At 68 FR 19751, Apr. 22, 2003, Sec. 15.525 was amended by revising [[Page
925]] paragraphs (b) and (e). This amendment contains information collection and recordkeeping require-
ments and will not become effective until approval has been given by the Office of Management and Bud-
get.

3
Appendix B – GPR Emissions, Interference and Regulations LMX100 User’s Guide

FCC GROUND PENETRATING RADAR COORDINATION NOTICE

NAME:

ADDRESS:

CONTACT INFORMATION [CONTACT NAME AND PHONE NUMBER]:

AREA OF OPERATION [COUNTIES, STATES OR LARGER AREAS]:

FCC ID: QJQ-NG250

EQUIPMENT NOMENCLATURE: NG250

Send the information to:

Frequency Coordination Branch., OET

Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20554
ATTN: UWB Coordination
Fax: 202-418-1944

INFORMATION PROVIDED IS DEEMED CONFIDENTIAL

4
LMX100 User’s Guide Appendix B – GPR Emissions, Interference and Regulations

ETSI Regulations for the EC (European Community)

In the European Community (EC), GPR instruments must conform to ETSI (European Technical
Standards Institute) standard EN 302 066-1 v1.2.1. Details on individual country requirements for
licensing are coordinated with this standard. For more information, contact Sensors & Software’s
technical staff.

All Sensors & Software ground penetrating radar (GPR) products offered for sale in European Community
countries or countries adhering to ETSI standards are tested to comply with EN 302 066 v1.2.1.

For those who wish to get more detailed information, they should acquire copies of the following docu-
ments available from ETSI.

ETSI EN 302 066-1 V1.2.1 (February 2008) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters
(ERM); Ground and Wall- Probing Radar applications (GPR/WPR) imaging systems; Part 1: Technical
characteristics and test methods

ETSI EN 302 066-2 V1.2.1 (February 2008) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters
(ERM); Ground and Wall- Probing Radar applications (GPR/WPR) imaging systems; Part 2: Harmonized
EN covering essential requirements of article 3.2 of the R&TTE Directive

ETSI TR 101 994-2 V1.1.2 (March 2008) Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters
(ERM); Short Range Devices (SRD); Technical characteristics for SRD equipment using Ultra Wide Band
technology (UWB); Part 2: Ground- and Wall- Probing Radar applications; System Reference Document

5
Appendix B – GPR Emissions, Interference and Regulations LMX100 User’s Guide

Industry Canada Regulations - English

Industry Canada published it regulations for ground penetrating radar (GPR) on Mar 29 2009 as part of
the RSS-220 titled 'Devices Using Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Technology'.

Industry Canada has made a unique exception for GPR by not requiring user licensing. The user does
have to comply with the following directives:

This Ground Penetrating Radar Device shall be operated only when in contact with or
within 1 m of the ground.
This Ground Penetrating Radar Device shall be operated only by law enforcement
agencies, scientific research institutes, commercial mining companies, construction
companies, and emergency rescue or firefighting organizations.

Should the ground penetrating radar be used in a wall-penetrating mode then the following restriction
should be noted by the user:

This In-wall Radar Imaging Device shall be operated where the device is directed at the
wall and in contact with or within 20 cm of the wall surface.
This In-wall Radar Imaging Device shall be operated only by law enforcement agencies,
scientific research institutes, commercial mining companies, construction companies, and
emergency rescue or firefighting organizations.
Since operation of GPR is on a license-exempt basis, the user must accept the following:

Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2)
this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of
the device.

6
LMX100 User’s Guide Appendix B – GPR Emissions, Interference and Regulations

Règlement d'Industrie Canada - Français

Industrie Canada a publié des règlements pour les appareils géoradar (GPR) le 29 mars 2009, dans le
cadre du RSS-220 intitulé "Dispositifs utilisant la bande ultra-large (UWB)".

Industrie Canada a faite une exception unique pour GPR en n'exigeant pas de licence par utilisateur.
L'utilisateur doit se conformer aux directives suivantes:

Ce géoradar périphérique doit être utilisé que lorsqu'il est en contact avec ou moins de 1
m du sol.
Ce géoradar périphérique doit être utilisé que par les organisations d'application de la loi,
les instituts de recherche scientifique, des sociétés minières commerciales, entreprises de
construction et de secours d'urgence ou des organisations de lutte contre les incendies.
Si le géoradar est utilisé dans un mode de pénétration au mur, la restriction suivante est à noter par l'utili-
sateur:

Ce dispositif d'imagerie radar doit être utilisé lorsque l'appareil est orienté vers le mur et
en contact avec ou dans les 20 cm de la surface du mur.
Ce dispositif d'imagerie radar doit être utilisé que par les organisations d'application de la
loi, les instituts de recherche scientifique, des sociétés minières commerciales,
entreprises de construction et de secours d'urgence ou des organisations de lutte contre
les incendies.
Parce que l'exploitation de GPR est sur une base exempte de licence, l'utilisateur doit accepter le texte
suivant:

La fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes: (1) cet appareil ne peut pas provoquer
d'interférences et (2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence, y compris les interférences qui peuvent
causer un mauvais fonctionnement du dispositif.

7
Appendix B – GPR Emissions, Interference and Regulations LMX100 User’s Guide

8
LMX100 User’s Guide Appendix C – Instrument Interference

Appendix C

Instrument Interference

Immunity regulations place the onus on instrument/apparatus/device manufacturers to assure that

extraneous interference will not unduly cause an instrument/apparatus/device to stop functioning or to
function in a faulty manner.

Based on independent testing house measurements, Sensors & Software Inc. systems comply with such
regulations in Canada, USA, European Community and most other jurisdictions. GPR devices can sense
electromagnetic fields. External sources of electromagnetic fields such as TV stations, radio stations and
cell phones, can cause signals detectable by a GPR which may degrade the quality of the data that a
GPR device records and displays.

Such interference is unavoidable but sensible survey practice and operation by an experienced GPR
practitioner can minimize such problems. In some geographic areas emissions from external sources may
be so large as to preclude useful measurements. Such conditions are readily recognized and accepted by
the professional geophysical community as a fundamental limitation of geophysical survey practice. Such
interference being present in the GPR recordings is not considered as an equipment fault or as a failure
to comply with immunity regulations.

1
Appendix C – Instrument Interference LMX100 User’s Guide

2
LMX100 User’s Guide Appendix D – Safety Around Explosive Devices

Appendix D

Safety Around Explosive Devices

Concerns are expressed from time to time on the hazard of GPR products being used near blasting caps
and unexploded ordnance (UXO). Experience with blasting caps indicates that the power of Sensors &
Software Inc.’s GPR products are not sufficient to trigger blasting caps. Based on a conservative
independent testing house analysis, we recommend keeping the GPR transmitters at least 5 feet (2m)
from blasting cap leads as a precaution. Some customers do experimental trials with their particular
blasting devices to confirm with safety. We strongly recommend that GPR users routinely working with
explosive devices develop a systematic safety methodology in their work areas.

The UXO issue is more complex and standards on fuses do not exist for obvious reasons. To date, no
problems have been reported with any geophysical instrument used for UXO. Since proximity and
vibration are also critical for UXO, the best advice is to be cautious and understand the risks.

1
Appendix D – Safety Around Explosive Devices LMX100 User’s Guide