3M Dynatel | 1420 Marker Locators for Underground Cables & Utilities

Published 15 Nov 2022

3M Dynatel Electronic Marker System Locator 1420X/XE

3M Dynatel

1420 Marker Locators for Underground Cables & Utilities

3M Dynatel Locators 1420X/XE Series determines exact location of underground 3M Electronic Marking System (EMS) Markers. There are two variations of the locators 1420-iD and 1420E-iD.

3M Dynatel Locators are microprocessor-based systems that incorporate advanced digital signal processing techniques to quickly and efficiently locate underground cables and utilities even years after construction or maintenance.

This locator reads, writes and locates 3M™ iD Markers.

It locates 2 different marker frequencies simultaneously. It features a lightweight design, large display with easy-to use interface, enhanced connectivity, internal GPS module, and includes Li-Ion battery with built-in charger.

Electronic Marker System Marker Locator | 3M Dynatel

Designed to be accurate, fast and integrated allowing you to accurately and easily:

Locate, read and write to 3M iD markers
Pinpoint the depth and location of all existing models of properly installed underground passive EMS markers
Conduct direct depth reading of markers
Locate two different marker frequencies simultaneously

Advanced Features

Detect Information About Underground Utilities

A feature exclusive to the 3M 1420-iD/1420E-iD locators is the ability to read, write and lock programmed information into the 3M™ Electronic Marker System iD Markers.

Information such as a pre-programmed unique identification number, facility data, owner information, application type placement date and other details from up to 100 markers can all be stored with date/time stamp and transmitted back to your PC for enhanced resource management.

Accurate Even In Congested Areas

The 3M 1420-iD/1420E-iD locators are unaffected by metal conduit or pipe, metallic conductors, fences, AC power or electronic markers for other utilities. Multiple markers located at close proximity can be read individually using this system.

A Simple, Easy-to-use System

Lightweight and compact, the locators are rugged, ergonomic and require very little operator training. A large bright backlit digital liquid crystal display screen and soft-key operation make them easy to understand and use for more precise locates.

A “memory” feature remembers operator set-up from the previous use. A standard RS232/USB communications port allows interface to an external computer for uploading/downloading of data, unit configuration and remote software upgrades. The system is estimated to operate for more than 25 hours on eight AA alkaline batteries.

Exclusive GPS System Adds Accuracy With Ease

The 3M™ Dynatel™ Electronic Marker System Marker Locators 3M 1420-iD/1420E-iD are now compatible with select GPS/GIS field mapping instruments for real-time mapping of marker placement.

The customized Dynatel interface commands the GPS/GIS device allowing even a generalist field technician to perform real-time mapping. It’s a simple system for mapping marker placement and saving information directly into CAD and GIS systems.

The electronic export of this information in GIS format creates an automated paperless system for records updating, making positive locates in the field easier than ever.

Additional Features Include

Large backlit, high-resolution graphic display
PC interface via standard RS232/USB
User-configurable features and interface
Detects all seven EMS marker frequencies
Locator PC tools software
iD marker read/write capability
Dual marker frequency search-simultaneous
iD Marker depth estimation

1420 Marker Locators for Underground Cables & Utilities

3M Dynatel Technical Specifications

Physical Specifications
	Size (H x W x D) CM (in.)	Weight (including batteries)
Receiver	26,7 x 11,8 x 76,2 (10.25 x 4.7 x 30)	1,9 kg (4 lb.)
Shipping	N/A	5,3 kg (11.5 lb.)
Environmental Specifications
Operating temperature	-20° C to 50° C (-4° F to 122° F)
Storage temperature	-20° C to 70° C (-4° F to 158° F)
Regulatory	CE (Export Models Only)
Standard	IP54
Electrical Specifications

Marker compatibility	All 3M markers (telephone, gas, communication, power, water, wastewater and general purpose)
Dual marker mode	Any two marker frequencies simultaneously
Detection range	Exceeds maximum marker depth specifications
Marker read range	1420 Near Surface 3 ft. (.9 m) Ball 5 ft. (1,5 m) Full Range 8 ft. (2.4 m)	1420E Near Surface 0.6 m (2 ft.) Ball 1,2 m (4 ft.) telephone, gas, CATV, wastewater 1,0 m (3.3 ft) water, power Full Range 2 m (6 ft.)
Marker write range	30 cm (1 ft.)
RFiD Marker depth measurement accuracy	+/- 10% +/- 5 cm (2 in.) up to marker depth specifications
Memory storage with date/time stamp	Read marker records 100 Written marker records 100 User defined iD templates 32
Marker depth memory storage	Five with date/time stamp
Power	Battery type: eight AA size, alkaline Typical battery life: 25 hours
Display	Large graphic high-contrast LCD with backlight
Speaker	0.25W
Headphone jack	Standard mini-jack
Serial port	Standard RS232 serial with DB9 connector (USB adapter cable included)

3M Dynatel 1420-iD

Keypad & Display Definitions

Keypad Display & Definitions

[1] On/Off (Power): Turns unit on and off.
[2] Speaker Volume Control: [2] Adjusts the volume of the locator (off, low, medium, and high).
[2A] Speaker Volume Icon: Indicates the relative volume level of the locator.
[3] Contrast: The arrows located above and below the contrast icon will adjust the contrast of the display.
[4] Gain Adjust: Adjusts the sensitivity of the locator either up or down to maintain a satisfactory signal level.
[5] Locate/OK: Sets the locator to trace mode for locating markers. Also acknowledges setup entries (OK).
[6] Menu: Displays setup screen for configuration of the unit, i.e.: clock, language, depth units, and marker data.
[7] Backlight: Toggles the backlight low, high, and off.
[8] Battery Icon: Indicates battery level.
[SK] Soft Keys: There are four soft keys (yellow keys) on the locator. The function of each key is shown above the key on the display screen. The functions will change, depending on the operation mode of the locator. For instruction purposes in this manual, the display command is followed by [SK] to identify it as a soft key.
[9] Soft Key Commands: Definitions for each of the four soft key functions.
[10] Signal Strength: Digital reading of the signal strength that the locator is detecting from the marker.
[11] Bar Graph: Graphical representation of the received signal.
[12] Gain Level: Displays relative gain level.
[13] External Jack: Not active on this model.
[l4] Serial Port: RS232 port to connect the locator to a PC via serial cable or USB-to-Serial Adapter cable.
[15] Earphone Jack: Will fit standard 1/8 inch (3.175 mm) mini-jack mono earphone plug (not included).

Ordering Information from 3M Electrical

3M Electrical Part Number	Description
3M 1420	EMS-iD marker locator with iD read/write
3M 1420E	EMS-iD marker locator with iD read/write (CE Approved Export Model)

3M Electrical

Since 1985, Thorne & Derrick have been Approved Distributors for 3M Electrical Products (LV HV) including Cold Shrink and Scotchcast products – whilst the competitive supply of product from stock on short lead times is essential to the distributor it is equally vital that 3M product reputation is preserved through the correct installation of products in accordance with 3M recommendations.