Can Tomkat V2 Locate Underground Fibre Optic Cables? Malaysia
Can Tomkat V2 Locate Underground Fibre Optic Cables? Malaysia
Introduction
As Malaysia continues to expand its fibre optic infrastructure, contractors are increasingly working around underground telecommunication networks. Before excavation begins, one common question is:
"Can the Tomkat V2 Pipe & Cable Locator locate underground fibre optic cables?"
The answer is yes, but it depends on how the fibre optic cable is installed. Understanding the type of cable installation is important for selecting the correct locating method.
Understanding Fibre Optic Cable Installation
Unlike electrical power cables, fibre optic cables do not carry electrical current.
Therefore, the glass fibre itself cannot be detected directly by a cable locator.
However, many fibre optic installations include additional components that can be traced.
These include:
Copper tracer wire
Metallic armour
Metallic conduit
Detectable duct systems
When these components are present, the Tomkat V2 can accurately locate the cable route.
Method 1 – Using the SIGEN 2+ Signal Transmitter
This is the recommended method.
The SIGEN 2+ Signal Transmitter applies a locating signal onto:
Copper tracer wire
Metallic armour
Metallic conduit
The Tomkat V2 receiver then follows the transmitted signal to accurately trace the underground cable.
Advantages
Highest locating accuracy
Long tracing distance
Reliable signal
Suitable for professional fibre contractors
Method 2 – Using Radio Mode
If no transmitter connection is available, Radio Mode may detect metallic components associated with underground fibre installations.
This method is useful for:
Preliminary site inspections
Searching for unknown underground utilities
However, results depend on site conditions and the type of fibre installation.
Method 3 – Using a Sonde
If the fibre cable is installed inside an underground duct, the included 5m Sonde (33kHz) can be inserted into the duct.
The Tomkat V2 detects the Sonde signal, allowing operators to trace:
Empty conduits
Fibre ducts
Underground cable routes
Communication pipelines
This is particularly useful when no tracer wire is available.
Can Every Fibre Optic Cable Be Located?
Not always.
The ability to locate depends on the installation method.
Fibre Installation TypeTomkat V2 DetectionFibre with Copper Tracer Wireâś” YesFibre in Metallic Conduitâś” YesFibre with Metallic Armourâś” YesFibre in PVC Duct (Using Sonde)âś” YesBare Fibre Cable Without Metallic Componentsâś– No
For bare fibre installations without metallic elements, a separate tracer wire or Sonde is typically required.
Industries That Benefit
The Tomkat V2 is ideal for:
Fibre optic installation contractors
Telecommunication companies
Internet service providers
Civil engineering contractors
Utility maintenance teams
Municipal councils
Industrial facilities
Survey companies
Why Choose Tomkat V2?
The Tomkat V2 provides:
Detection depth up to 3 metres
Three locating modes:
Power Mode
Radio Mode
Genny Mode
High accuracy with the SIGEN 2+ Signal Transmitter
5m Sonde (33kHz) for tracing underground ducts
Visual and audible alerts
Durable design for field use
It is suitable for locating a wide range of underground utilities, including electrical cables, metallic pipes, communication infrastructure, and fibre duct systems.
Why Buy from MTM Precision?
MTM Precision Sdn Bhd supplies professional underground utility locating equipment for contractors and utility companies throughout Malaysia.
We offer:
Local stock availability
Product demonstrations
Technical consultation
After-sales support
Calibration services
Fast nationwide delivery
Our team can recommend the most suitable locating solution for fibre optic installation, utility maintenance, and construction projects.
Contact MTM Precision
Website: www.mtmpre.com.my
WhatsApp: +6016-660 7346
Email: mtmpre@yahoo.com
If your projects involve underground fibre optic networks, contact MTM Precision Sdn Bhd to learn how the Tomkat V2 Pipe & Cable Locator with the SIGEN 2+ Signal Transmitter Builder's Kit can help you locate underground fibre routes safely and accurately across Malaysia.
04 Aug 2026
