The Leica Trace Rod 50 is a professional-grade flexible fibreglass rod engineered for tracing non-conductive underground utilities — including PVC pipes, drainage ducts, plastic conduit, and telecom channels — that cannot be located with traditional electromagnetic induction techniques. When direct connection or inductive clamping won't work because the target pipe is non-metallic, the Trace Rod delivers a reliable signal path underground. It connects to the Leica DA175 Signal Transmitter and works seamlessly with DD-series locators to pinpoint pipe routes and blockage locations from the surface. Also compatible with the DA300 transmitter and DD300 Connect — if you're running a DD300 setup and need trace rod capability, it works within the shared frequency range (up to 33kHz).
Key Features
Dual-Mode Operation
Switch between Line mode (trace the full route of the duct) and Sonde mode (locate a specific blockage or end-point). One rod, two essential capabilities.
50m (165ft) Length
Reaches deep into drainage systems, telecoms ducts, and long pipe runs. Flexible fibreglass construction pushes smoothly through bends and curves.
Works on Non-Metallic Pipes
Traces PVC, clay, concrete, and other non-conductive pipes that cannot carry an inductive signal — the rod physically carries the electromagnetic signal through the duct.
Fits Pipes Up to 100mm (4")
The 4.5mm rod diameter and 8mm built-in sonde diameter fit comfortably through standard 4" and smaller drain and duct work.
Rugged Fibreglass Build
Flexible and kink-resistant for repeated use in wet, dirty job site conditions. Designed for professional utility contractors and drainage teams.
Authorized Leica Accessory
Genuine OEM accessory — compatible with the DA175 transmitter and DD120/DD130 locators. Also works with the DA300 and DD300 Connect within the shared DD100-series frequency range. Article 850278.
How It Works
Locating non-metallic utilities requires a different approach than traditional EM locating. The Trace Rod solves this by physically carrying the signal through the pipe:
Connect the Trace Rod to the DA175 or DA300 Signal Transmitter output.
Feed the rod into the drain, duct, or pipe access point.
Transmit — the rod radiates an electromagnetic signal along its length (Line mode) or concentrates signal at the built-in sonde tip (Sonde mode).
Locate — walk the surface with a DD120, DD130, or DD300 Connect locator to track the signal path, map the pipe route, and measure depth.
Mark the pipe route on the surface for safe excavation or repair planning.
Related Items
Leica Detect DD120 Utility Locator Base Model (60Hz) 872939
Art. 872939
Entry-level electromagnetic utility locator for detecting buried cables and pipes.
