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 and Utilities

The 3M Dynatel 1420X/XE Series locators identify the exact position of underground 3M Electronic Marker System (EMS) markers.

The range includes two locator models: the 1420-iD and 1420E-iD.

These microprocessor-based systems use advanced digital signal processing to locate underground cables and utilities quickly and efficiently. They can also identify markers installed years earlier during construction or maintenance work.

The locators can read, write and locate 3M™ iD markers. They can also detect two different marker frequencies simultaneously.

Additional features include a lightweight design, a large display, an easy-to-use interface and enhanced connectivity. An internal GPS module and rechargeable Li-Ion battery with built-in charger also support field operations.

Electronic Marker System Marker Locator | 3M Dynatel

Locating and Identifying Underground Utilities

The 3M Dynatel 1420-iD and 1420E-iD locators help field teams identify and manage underground utility markers.

The systems allow operators to:

Locate, read and write information to 3M iD markers.
Pinpoint the depth and position of existing, correctly installed passive EMS markers.
Take direct depth readings of underground markers.
Locate two different marker frequencies simultaneously.

3M Dynatel Locator Features and Benefits

Read and Store Underground Utility Information

The 3M 1420-iD and 1420E-iD locators can read, write and lock programmed information into 3M™ Electronic Marker System iD markers.

Each marker can store useful asset information, including:

Unique identification numbers.
Utility and facility details.
Asset owner information.
Application type.
Marker placement date.

The system can store information from up to 100 markers, complete with date and time stamps. Operators can then transfer the stored data to a PC to support asset and resource management.

Accurate Location in Congested Areas

The 3M 1420-iD and 1420E-iD locators can identify markers in environments containing metal conduit, pipes, metallic conductors and fences.

They are also designed to operate around AC power and electronic markers belonging to other utilities.

Where several markers sit close together, operators can use the system to identify and read each marker individually.

Simple, User-Friendly Operation

The Dynatel locators feature a lightweight, compact and rugged design. Their ergonomic construction makes them practical for field use, while the intuitive controls require very little operator training.

A large, bright backlit LCD screen displays information clearly. Soft-key controls also make the locator easier to operate and configure.

The memory function retains the operator’s previous settings between uses.

For data management, a standard RS232/USB communications port connects the locator to an external computer. Operators can upload and download data, configure the unit and carry out remote software upgrades.

The system can operate for more than 25 hours using eight AA alkaline batteries.

GPS and GIS Compatibility

The 3M Dynatel 1420-iD and 1420E-iD locators are compatible with selected GPS/GIS field mapping instruments.

This allows operators to map marker positions in real time. The customised Dynatel interface controls the GPS/GIS device, helping field technicians record marker locations accurately.

Operators can save the collected information directly into CAD and GIS systems.

Electronic export in GIS format also supports paperless record management and makes it easier to update underground utility records.

Additional 3M Dynatel Features

Large, backlit, high-resolution graphic display.
PC interface through standard RS232/USB connectivity.
User-configurable features and interface.
Detection of all seven EMS marker frequencies.
Locator PC Tools software.
iD marker read/write capability.
Simultaneous search for two marker frequencies.
iD marker depth estimation.

1420 Marker Locators for Underground Cables & Utilities

3M Dynatel 1420 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 and Display Guide

Keypad Display & Definitions

The following guide explains the main keypad controls, display icons and connection points on the 3M Dynatel 1420-iD locator.

[1] On/Off (Power): Turns the unit on and off.

[2] Speaker Volume Control: Adjusts the locator volume (off, low, medium or high).

[2A] Speaker Volume Icon: Displays the current volume level.

[3] Contrast: The arrows above and below the contrast icon adjust the display contrast.

[4] Gain Adjust: Increases or decreases locator sensitivity to maintain a suitable signal level.

[5] Locate/OK: Switches the locator to trace mode and confirms setup entries.

[6] Menu: Opens the setup screen. Operators can configure the clock, language, depth units and marker data.

[7] Backlight: Switches the backlight between low, high and off.

[8] Battery Icon: Indicates the remaining battery level.

[SK] Soft Keys: The locator has four yellow soft keys. Each key’s function appears above it on the display and changes according to the operating mode.

[9] Soft Key Commands: Displays the current function of each soft key.

[10] Signal Strength: Shows a digital reading of the signal received from the marker.

[11] Bar Graph: Provides a graphical representation of the received signal.

[12] Gain Level: Displays the relative gain setting.

[13] External Jack: Not active on this model.

[14] Serial Port: Connects the locator to a PC using a serial cable or USB-to-Serial adapter.

[15] Earphone Jack: Accepts a standard 1/8 inch (3.175 mm) mini-jack mono earphone plug (not included).

3M Dynatel Ordering Information

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

3M Electrical Products from Thorne & Derrick

Thorne & Derrick have been Approved Distributors for 3M Electrical Products (LV HV) since 1985.

Our range includes Cold Shrink and Scotchcast products, available to support a wide range of electrical applications.

We understand the importance of supplying genuine 3M products from stock with competitive lead times. Equally important is ensuring that installers fit products correctly and follow the relevant 3M installation recommendations.