Abstract: A magnetic locator in which flux-gate sensors are mounted in longitudinal notches at the ends of a tubular support to form an assembly which is inserted into a tubular housing, the sensors being press-fitted into the notches and the tubular support being provided with spaced bushings of material which is compressed when inserted into the housing. A stiff hairpin excitation conductor extends through the sensors and through the tubular support, being preassembled with one of the sensors and being connected to a circuit chassis for positioning the sensor assembly in the housing. A simplified electrical circuit is employed which produces a beat frequency signal when a magnetic object is located and which avoids the need for a voltage to frequency converter.

Abstract: A magnetic locator in which flux-gate sensors are mounted in longitudinal notches or grooves at the ends of a tubular support to form an assembly which is inserted into a tubular housing, the sensors being press-fitted into the notches and the tubular support being provided with spaced bushings of material which are compressed when inserted into the housing. A stiff hairpin excitation conductor extends through the sensors and through the tubular support, being preassembled with one of the sensors. A simplified electrical circuit is employed which produces a beat frequency signal when a magnetic object is located and which avoids the need for a voltage to frequency converter.

Abstract: An improved flux gate sensor for a magnetic locator or the like employs a housing which enables pivotal adjustment of a tubular magnetic core contained therein in order to adjust the angular orientation of the magnetic axis of the sensor. The housing comprises an elongated bobbin having a longitudinal cavity therein for receiving the core, and an end piece connected to the bobbin. One end of the core is pivotally engaged by the bobbin, the other end of the core being engaged by the end piece which is movable transversely relative to the bobbin to adjust the angular orientation of the core in the housing. The bobbin, which may be formed in one piece or in two identical half sections, has an outer circumferential groove thereon for receiving a signal winding.