MLOC Depth Codes
mloc uses single-character “depth codes” in a variety of circumstances to carry information on the source of a depth estimate. The recognized codes are listed here:
| Depth Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| c | Cluster default depth |
| d | Teleseismic depth phases |
| e | Engineered (man-made explosion) |
| f | Fault model (InSAR, GPS, etc) |
| l | Local-distance readings |
| m | mloc solution with free depth |
| n | Near-source station readings |
| r | Relocation outside mloc with free depth |
| u | Unknown |
| w | Waveform analysis |
Although the use of depth codes is optional (blank is processed without problems), it is recommended to use them whenever possible.
The depth code “l” indicates a constraint on focal depth from readings at local distance (but still direct, crustal P and S phases), beyond the distance range normally considered appropriate for depth control (for which the “n” flag is provided). This is an advanced topic that requires careful analysis in mloc.