The Seesnake microdrain is an innovative new camera system that's designed to enter lines
and negotiate fittings that other cameras can't.
The micro drains patent-pending push cable combines an ultra tight minimum Bend radius
with a slick outer jacket. These technologies deliver enhanced maneuverability and maximum
push down the line. The micro drain can be purchased for use with either a sea snake
monitoring system or the RIDGID micro Explorer, and kits are available that let you reconfigure
the unit for use with the alternate monitor type. The micro drain includes multi pipe guides. Pipe
guides help Center the camera in the line for a better image, and can help the camera negotiate
fittings and offsets. In the next few minutes, we'll show you how to set up the micro drain
and connect it to the RIDGID micro explorer and Seesnake monitoring systems. We'll look at some
typical usage applications and demonstrate cable techniques, that can help you get through the line.
The micro drains modular design makes it easy
to remove and replace the slip ring modules, handles and drum.
To remove the drum, push the camera back through the cable guide and fully into the case. Then slide
the two case latches to the unlocked position and open the case. The drum simply lifts out.
After replacing the drum, feed the camera through the cable guide and secure it in the camera clip.
Close the case and slide the case latches to the locked position.
The micro drains interchangeable slippering modules, let you configure the unit for use
with either a Seesnake monitoring system or the RIDGID micro explorer.
The micro explorer slippering module has a system cable that terminates in
an adapter plug that fits over the micro explorers camera connector. The Seesnake
slippering module has a system cable that terminates in a Seesnake system connector.
To swap modules, disconnect the system cable from the monitor and remove it from the cord wraps.
Turn the slippering module from the locked to the unlocked position and pull it free from the hub.
Insert the alternate slippering module into the hub. And rotate it to the locked position.
After installing the module, secure the system cable in the cord wraps on the case.
To protect the pins inside the module from damage, we strongly recommend storing the
unused module in its shipping box when it's not installed in the micro drain.
The microdrain is equipped with either a carrying strap or a cradle, for the micro explorer and
kits are available that lets you change to the alternate handle type. Refer to the instructions
included with the handle kits for details on swapping handles. The microdrain can be used with
or without a pipe guide, but in many cases you'll find that pipe guides improve both the in pipe
image and your ability to push through the line. To install a pipe guide make sure that the red
sliding locks are in the unlocked position and that the blue latches are fully opened.
Then slide the guide over the camera head and onto the spring. To secure
the guide on the spring, press the blue latches all the way down. Then slide the
red locks over the latches. You can use one or two pipe guides and in most cases,
you'll want to position the front guide as close to the camera head as possible.
If you're using the microdrain with the RIDIGD micro explorer, make sure that the
micro explorer slippering module is installed and that the connector is
plugged securely into the micro explorers camera connector. If you're using the micro
drain with a Seesnake monitor, unwrap the system cable and plug the connector into the
system connector jack on your monitor. Once your equipment is connected, you can power
on the monitor and begin using the system. If you're not familiar with your monitors
features and controls, review its operating instructions before using your equipment.
The micro drains push cable is far more flexible in standard Seesnake cables and you'll need to
modify your cable handling technique accordingly. You'll want to keep your hands as close to the
access point as possible and use either a steady push or a series of short strokes to work the
camera through fittings and down the line. To reduce the chance of cutting or braiding the
push cable, avoid dragging it across access points with sharp edges. As with larger Seesnake cameras,
your success entering through a given access point will depend on the size, material and condition
of the line. As well as the number and tightness of turns. In many cases, the microdrain can enter
through low-flow toilets and can negotiate pee traps in tubs, showers and floor and laundry drains.
When entering through sink lines, you'll need to remove the p-trap in most cases. When entering
through a toilet fixture, pipes entering guides are especially useful and can often mean the
difference between making it through easily and not making it through it all. A cable guide can
also be helpful when entering through toilets. A cable guide helps protect the fixture from
being scratched by the camera, and allows you to push the camera from higher up in the bowl.
You can make a simple guide from a piece
of flexible hose or assemble one from lengths of PVC pipe.
In the past few minutes, we've taken a quick look at the Micro drains features,
capabilities and configuration options. We've shown you how to connect it to
both Seesnake and micro explorer monitors and to demonstrated some techniques for
getting through the line. On behalf of the entire microdrain team, we appreciate your
involvement with a micro drain product and we thank you for watching this video.