3M Ball Markers (EMS, iD)
Product overview
3M Ball Markers are a durable, low-maintenance solution for accurately marking buried utility assets beneath backfill and non-metallic covers. These compact underground ball markers deliver long-term performance and work seamlessly with the 3M Dynatel Locator 7000 Series. Thanks to their self-levelling, spherical design and water-resistant polyethylene casing, 3M Ball Marker EMS and iD models ensure consistent location accuracy – even when installed under non-metallic lids or buried in difficult-to-reach areas.
3M Ball Marker – Underground Ball Marker for Flush-Mounted Utility Identification
This underground ball marker is ideal for locating CATV, gas, telephone, reclaimed water and power lines, particularly where flush-mounted facilities are involved. The self-aligning design ensures the internal antenna is always horizontal, offering reliable detection. Each 3M Ball Marker is completely passive or available in a programmable iD version, enabling storage of detailed asset information directly within the unit. With a 1.5 m detection range and chemical-resistant casing, these markers are built for dependable performance in challenging outdoor environments.
Key Features & Benefits
- Self-aligning, spherical design for horizontal antenna orientation
- Accurately marks buried lines under backfill or non-metallic covers
- Water-resistant polyethylene shell resists harsh underground conditions
- Programmable iD or passive options available for flexible data storage
- Compatible with the 3M Dynatel Locator 7000 Series
- Integrates with GIS and asset management platforms via unique serials
- Reliable utility marking at depths up to 1.5 m (5 ft)
- Suitable for gas, telephone, CATV, power, and wastewater applications
- Operates in temperatures from -20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F)
- Supplied in cases of 30 for large-scale deployment
3M Ball Marker – Compact Utility Marker for Flush-Mounted Systems
Whether you’re tracking buried networks across telecom, gas, or power sectors, 3M Ball Markers EMS provide the precision and durability needed to manage underground infrastructure with confidence. Their maintenance-free, self-levelling design ensures efficient installation and long-term asset traceability – even in heavily backfilled or restricted-access environments.
Effective underground asset management starts with tools you can trust. 3M’s locating and marking solutions – including Mini, Near-Surface, Full-Range, and Ball Markers – help professionals avoid costly errors and improve long-term infrastructure reliability. Backed by proven EMS technology, these markers make it easier than ever to track and protect your buried infrastructure.
For Additional Information, please consult the Technical Data Table or PDF File below.
*Technical Data subject to change without notice.
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+44 (0)1744 762 929Technical Data
| Application/Industry | Burial Depth (ft) |
Burial Depth (m) |
Marker Depth (ft, m) |
Marker Dimension (in) |
Marker Finding Capability | Marker Type |
| Gas, Telephone | 3.937 Linear Foot, 4.921, 5 Linear Foot, 5 | 1.2, 1.5, 1.53 | 5 ft (1.5 m), 6 ft (1.8 m) | 4 (diameter) | Yes | Ball |
| Programmable/Passive | Smallest Saleable Unit | Solution For | Transmitter Output | Units Per Case | Utility Type |
| Programmable, Passive | Each | Access Network: xDSL, Longhaul/Metro Loop Network: Outdoor, Wireless Network: Backhaul, Access Network: FTTX | N/A | 30.0 | General Purpose, CATV, Gas, Telephone, Wastewater, General Purpose/Reclaimed Water, Power |
DIMENSIONS AND CLASSIFICATIONS |
| Overall Diameter (in) | Overall Diameter (cm) | Overall Height (cm) |
| 4, 4.016 | 10.16, 10.2 | 10.4 |
INDUSTRY SPECIFICATIONS |
| Marker Type | Detection/Read Range (m) | Type | Telephone | Power | CATV | General Purpose | Water | Wastewater | Gas |
| Ball Marker | 1.8 | EMS | 1401-XR | 1402-XR | 1407-XR | 1408-XR | 1403-XR | 1404-XR | 1405-XR |
| Ball Marker | 1.5 | iD | 1421-XR/iD | 1422-XR/iD | 1427-XR/iD | 1428-XR/iD | 1423-XR/iD | 1424-XR/iD | 1425-XR/iD |