Abstract: Methods for electrical isolation of a locator wire for locating the position of a utility conveyance include, in one aspect, the steps of positioning at least one locator wire in substantial alignment with the utility conveyance, and placing the locator wire in electrical communication with an electrically conductive terminal at least partially enclosed within an electrically isolating sheath. In another aspect, a method is provided for locating a utility conveyance, including the positioning at least one locator wire in substantial alignment with at least a portion of the utility conveyance and placing an electrically conductive terminal in electrical communication with an end of the locator wire. The terminal is separate from the locator wire and further is at least partially enclosed within an electrically isolating sheath. A detectable signal may then be applied to the locator wire through the terminal, and the location of the utility conveyance may be ascertained with a detector.

Abstract: A novel device and method for electrical isolation of a locator wire for locating the position of a buried utility conveyance are disclosed. In one aspect, the device includes an electrically insulating sheath and an electrically conductive terminal in electrical communication with the locator wire. In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for electrically isolating a locator wire, including the steps of placing the locator wire in electrical communication with an electrically conductive terminal and surrounding the terminal with an electrically insulative sheath. In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a method for locating an underground utility conveyance, including the steps of positioning a locator wire in substantial alignment with the utility conveyance, placing the locator wire in electrical communication with an electrically conductive terminal surrounded by an electrically insulative sheath, applying a detectable signal to the locator wire, and detecting the signal.