Cable Height Meters

Cable Height Meters

The Suparule Cable Height Meter utilises the speed of sound principle for precise cable height measurements by emitting an ultrasonic signal, a sound wave beyond human hearing. This technique requires the meter to be directly aimed at the cable for accurate operation. The ultrasonic transducer at the cone’s centre sends out a signal and measures the time it takes for the echo to return from the cable. This process accurately calculates the distance between the meter and the cable using the speed of sound through air.

As the ultrasonic signal propagates, its beam widens with distance. For instance, the beam width is about 16mm at the transducer but expands to over 1m ten metres away. This behaviour is detailed in the user manual and datasheet. For effective measurement, the returned echo must be directed back to the cone. If the echo doesn’t reach the cone, the meter can’t measure the distance, underscoring the need for precise alignment.