The Megger L1070 Portable Locator locates buried cables and pipes across a wide range of site conditions, using active or passive detection, inductive or conductive connection, and three operating frequencies: 815 Hz, 8 kHz, and 82 kHz. Capable of locating over long or short ranges, it delivers quick and accurate results with a user-friendly interface, making it a dependable choice for utility maintenance, mechanical and electrical (M&E) commissioning, and pre-excavation cable surveys.
Locating buried cables and pipes: active and passive modes
In active mode, the L1070 transmitter applies a signal to the target cable or pipe either conductively (direct connection) or inductively (via the optional flexible coupler or direct soil induction). Three selectable frequencies give you control over range and selectivity. The 815 Hz low-frequency setting maximises locating range and reduces coupling errors from adjacent conductors, making it particularly suited to multi-grounded electrical distribution networks, continuously grounded water mains, and cathodically protected gas pipes. Switching to 82 kHz lets you path-locate past bad telephone bonds, trace underground stubs, and carry out inductive locating where direct connection is not possible. A BOTH mode transmits 815 Hz and 82 kHz simultaneously, so you can compare signals from a single transmitter position without having to return to change frequency between passes.
Passive detection needs no transmitter. The receiver picks up existing 50/60 Hz signals on energised conductors, providing a practical safety check for identifying live underground primary and secondary utility cables before ground disturbance. SONDE detection is also supported: where a sonde transmitter has been inserted into a non-metallic pipe or conduit, the L1070 receiver tracks it by frequency-matching, giving you route and depth of otherwise untraceable buried services.
Key features of the Megger L1070 Portable Locator
A standout design feature allows the user to select and compare receiver information on two frequencies simultaneously, without having to return to the transmitter. In congested multi-cable environments, this makes a real difference to how quickly you can confirm you have the right conductor. Push-button depth measurements read automatically to a maximum of 15 ft (4.6 m), with manual bubble-level triangulation available for verification where site conditions affect the automatic readout. Current flow measurement gives you real-time data on signal strength in the target conductor, corrected for depth changes, and is useful for tracing where a transmitter signal divides or leaks to earth at an insulation fault. The transmitter handles automatic load matching from 5 to 2,000 ohms across all frequency settings, with selectable normal and high output power levels. Peak and null detection modes on the receiver suit different site conditions and working preferences.
What’s included: Megger L1070 kit contents
- Megger L1070 Portable Locator receiver
- Transmitter
- Red/black cord
- Disposable alkaline batteries
- Ground rod
- Instruction manual
- Soft carrying case
Optional accessories
- Folding ground return probe (grounded fault locator)
- Flexible coupler (inductive coupler)
- DC charger (automotive)
Frequently asked questions
What is the Megger L1070 Portable Locator used for?
The L1070 locates buried cables and pipes across a range of utility and M&E site conditions. It works in active mode by applying a signal to the target conductor via the transmitter, or in passive mode by detecting existing signals on energised cables. Typical applications include pre-excavation surveys, multi-grounded distribution network tracing, cathodically protected pipe location, and fault detection using the optional ground return probe.
What frequencies does the Megger L1070 transmit?
The L1070 transmitter operates at 815 Hz, 8 kHz, and 82 kHz, and can run both 815 Hz and 82 kHz simultaneously. The 815 Hz low-frequency mode provides longer locating range and reduces interference from adjacent conductors, making it well suited to electric power services. The 82 kHz mode is used to path-locate past bad telephone bonds, trace underground stubs, and perform inductive locating.
Does the Megger L1070 detect passive signals on live cables?
Yes. The receiver detects passive 50/60 Hz signals on energised conductors without any transmitter connection. This is used as a safety feature to identify live underground primary and secondary utility cables before excavation. The 50 Hz passive detection is directly relevant to Irish and European networks, where mains frequency is 50 Hz.
What is the maximum depth the Megger L1070 can measure?
The L1070 receiver provides automatic push-button depth measurements to a maximum of 15 ft (4.6 m). Accuracy depends on site conditions, conductor geometry, and the proximity of other buried conductors. Manual bubble-level triangulation is available on the receiver for verification in congested environments where the automatic readout may be affected.
Where can I buy the Megger L1070 in Ireland?
The Megger L1070 Portable Locator is available from Powerpoint Engineering, authorised distributors for Megger in Ireland. To discuss your specific locating requirements or request a quote, call our technical team on 057 866 2162 or use the enquiry form on this page.
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Megger L1070 Portable Locator Datasheet
For additional technical details about the Megger L1070 Portable Locator please refer to the product datasheet.
