When utility strikes on construction sites remain an industry-wide risk, having reliable avoidance tools before breaking ground is non-negotiable. While many contractors stick to familiar setups, premium alternatives often fly under the radar. At PQS Survey, keeping teams safe with advanced cable avoidance tools is a core part of our hire and training fleet. I caught up with Kent Watson, our CAT & Genny Training Manager, to look at an exceptional system that deserves more attention: the Leica DD300 CAT locator and DA300 signal generator.
Cutting Through Congested Ground with Digital Trim
Simon Lunt (PQS): Kent, on busy urban sites, operators often struggle with signal saturation where multiple underground services crowd the display. How does the Leica DD300 handle that?
Kent Watson (PQS): “It is a game-changer for congested ground. The DD300 features Digital Trim, which allows operators to manually control the gain bar and cleanly separate target lines when multiple utilities are bunched together. Combined with its bright colour LCD screen and built-in video tutorials, it guides both beginners and experts straight to the correct service without second-guessing.”
Boosting Power and Precision with the DA300 Genny
Simon: For active tracing, pairing the locator with a signal generator is vital. What makes the DA300 genny stand out in the trench?
Kent Watson: “The DA300 is a robust 1-watt transmitter that pushes a strong, clear signal along conductive service. With various frequency options – 512Hz, 640HZ for longer tracing range. Industry standard 8, 33 kHz and 131 kHz for small diameter communication services. That extra frequency versatility gives you much cleaner line tracing when you are dealing with difficult, shielded, or poorly conducting cables.”
Smart Tracking and DX Shield Integration
Simon: Site managers need more than just a quick beep; they need verifiable audit trails. How does the DD300 ecosystem manage site data?
Kent Watson: “Leica built this with full connectivity in mind. It packs integrated GPS, Bluetooth, and 8 GB of internal memory. Through the DX Shield software suite, operators can seamlessly sync locate data, track device usage, and generate comprehensive compliance reports straight from the field. It brings survey-grade documentation directly to utility avoidance.”
Leica DD300 and DA300: At a Glance
Kent’s Top Tip: Master Your Frequencies
Kent Watson: “Do not just rely on power mode and hope for the best. Use your DA300 transmitter to apply a direct connection or clamp signal whenever possible. Choosing the right frequency for the pipe or cable type stops guesswork and gives you exact depth and alignment data every single time.”
Why Hire Your Cable Avoidance Kit from PQS Survey?
At PQS Survey, we ensure your excavation teams are fully equipped with dependable, site-ready detection technology backed by expert training.
If you’d like a demo of the Leica DD300 and DA300 please let us know and we’d be happy to arrange this.
Simon Lunt
Sales and Marketing Manager, PQS Survey
