DigiTrak F5 Calibration

To ensure accurate performance, it is important to conduct individual 1-point DigiTrak F5 Calibration for each newly optimized frequency band in a low-noise environment with the transmitter inside a sonde housing. It is recommended to always perform calibration after assigning a new frequency band. In cases where two bands have been paired and the ability to switch between them is desired, it is advisable to calibrate both bands for optimal results. The calibration process works the same on DigiTrak F5 Classic, DigiTrak Falcon F5 and F5+.

To calibrate the F5 receiver and verify the Above Ground Range (AGR), utilize the Calibration menu. Calibration is necessary before the initial use of the equipment and prior to using a different transmitter, receiver, drill head, or an optimized transmitter band. However, if you are switching between bands on a transmitter that are already paired and calibrated, there is no need for recalibration. Calibration has an impact on depth readings, but it does not affect roll or pitch measurements.

For calibration purposes, it is necessary to install the transmitter in a drill head. During the calibration process, the Height-Above-Ground (HAG) feature is automatically deactivated. However, after completing the calibration, it is important to manually reactivate the HAG feature.

1-Point F5 Calibration

To calibrate depth readings, follow the steps below while above ground, prior to drilling:

1. Ensure both the receiver and the transmitter (installed in a drill head) are placed parallel to each other on level ground, with both devices powered on.
2. On the F5 receiver's Locate screen, check that roll and pitch values are being displayed and that a consistent signal is being received from the transmitter. You can view the transmitter's signal strength during calibration by accessing the "View calibration" option. Any significant signal strength change at a distance of 10 ft could indicate interference or equipment issues.
3. Bring the locator within 2 ft. of the transmitter to activate signal attenuation. This is indicated by an "A" appearing at the top right of the roll indicator. Move the locator back to a distance of 10 ft and verify that the attenuation turns off. If the attenuation does not turn off, it may indicate the presence of excessive noise. Note that a 19 inch transmitter, due to its higher signal strength, requires being moved beyond 10 ft. from the receiver for the attenuation to turn off.
4. From the Main menu, select Calibration, and then choose 1-pt calibration.
5. Use a tape measure to ensure the distance between the center of the transmitter and the inside edge of the receiver is 10 ft. Refer to the diagram below. Click Continue to start the calibration process.
6. It is important not to move the receiver during calibration. A successful calibration is indicated by a checkmark symbol and four beeps. Calibration can fail for the following reasons:

Transmitter signal is too low (below 300 points)

Transmitter signal is too high (above 950 points)

Extreme signal attenuation is present

Transmitter signal is too low (below 300 points).
Transmitter signal is too high (above 950 points).
Extreme signal attenuation is present.

If the calibration fails, review the information in the section titled "Why do I keep getting DigiTrak calibration errors?" for troubleshooting assistance.

After successfully calibrating one band, a specific icon briefly appears on the receiver's display. This icon indicates that the Down band (left side) has been calibrated, while the Up band has not. Remember to calibrate and verify the Above Ground Range (AGR) for the other band after checking AGR for the current band.

If you have just completed AGR verification after calibration, remember to turn on the Height-Above-Ground (HAG) feature if necessary.