6Form No. trACer-3-OM, Rev 08/16
Using the trACer™ Indoors
AC detection ranges and sensitivities are relative depending on how
the AC source is shielded, insulated, installed, damaged or exposed.
The sensitivity and detection distance of the trACer™ will vary with
building design, construction materials and immediate surrounding
environment.
If you are inside an ofce or enclosure that has multiple sources
of voltage (outlets, lights, computers, printers, extension cords), the
trACer™ may beep as you move around. This is normal. Hold the unit
still, and the beeping should cease. As you move around inside a
building, you may encounter “hotspots” of voltage signals. As you
move closer to a cord, light or other power source, the beeps will
increase in frequency. This is how you pinpoint the voltage source. Do
the following test to get familiar with using the trACer™ indoors:
Slowly approach a live electrical outlet, starting about 24 inches from
the outlet. Notice how the beep and ash frequencies increase as you
get closer to the outlet.
Using the trACer™ Outdoors
If you are outside near a power line, turn the trACer™ on when you
are about 100 feet away. Point the unit toward the power line, keeping
it at arm’s length. Walk toward the power line. As you get closer,
notice how the beeps increase in frequency. Aim the unit toward the
ground, below the power line. As you point the trACer™ away from the
line, the beeps will slow down. As you point it back to the power line,
beep frequency increases. That demonstrates the directional feature of
the trACer™.
By familiarizing yourself with the FireCraft® trACer™ under controlled
circumstances, you will be better prepared for using the device in
emergency situations.
In summary, the trACer™ yields reliable and consistent results in the
eld. However, because it is measuring AC signals, it can be affected by
its surroundings. It is, therefore, important to assess your surroundings
when using the trACer™ and take into consideration the impact of
various environmental factors, such as building materials, physical
proximity to obstacles, and atmospheric conditions.
4. Functional Description of the trACer™
The FireCraft® trACer™ is a hand-held AC voltage detector that
measures relative AC eld signal strength. The method of detection,
