Adv Users Manual

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N O R K A S

ECTORC U R R E N T M E T E R

USERMANUALAUGUST 2005

3 0 0 - 1 0 0 Rev.


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ECTORC U R R E N T M E T E R

Copyright Nortek AS 2002-2004. August 2005. All rights reserved. This document may not - in whole or inpar t - be copied, photocopied, translated, converted or reduced to any electronic medium or machine-readable

form without prior consent in writing from Nortek AS. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this

manual. However, Nortek AS makes no warranties with respect to this documentation and disclaims any implied

warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Nor tek shall not be liable for any errors or for

incidental or consequential damages in c o n e c t i o with the furnishing, p e r f o r m a c eor use of this manual or the

examples herein. Nortek AS reserves the right to amend any of the i f o r m a t i o given in this manual order to

take a c c o u tof e w developments.

Microsoft, ActiveX, Windows, W i d o w s ,Win32 are either registered trademarks or trademarks of MicrosoftC o r p o r a t i o i the United Sates a d / o rother countries. Other product names, logos, d c s i g s ,titles, words or

phrases m e n t i o e dw i t h i this p u b l i c a t i o may be trademarks, servicemarks, or tradenames of Nortek AS or

other entities a dmay be registered in certain jurisdictions including i t e r n a t i o a l l y .

Nortek AS, Vangkroken 2, - 1 3 5 1RUD, Norway.

Tel: +476717 4500 Fax: +47 67136770 e-mail: i q u i r y @ n o r t e k . n o www.nortek-as.com

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N O R K A S

Software updates and technical supportF i dus the w r l dwide web:

www.nortek-as.com, www.nortek.no

Here y uwill f i ds f t w a r eupdates a dt e c h i c a ls u p p r t .

Your Feedback is appreciatedIf u f i de r r r s ,rnisspelled r d s , r n i s s i s r s e c t i sp r l ye x p l a i e d ,please thesitate t c t a c tus a dtell us a b u tit at:

[email protected]

We appreciate y u rc r n r n e t sa dy u rf e l l wusers will as well.

Nortek Forum SupportIf u have c r n r n e t s , a p p l i c a t i tips, s u g g e s t i st i r n p r v e r n e t s ,etc. that y ut h i kwill be f g e e r a li t e r e s ty us h u l dregister N r t e k ' sF r u r n sat

www.nortek-as.com/cgi-bin/ib/ikonboard.cgi

a dp s ty u rrnessage there. The F r u r n sa l s f f e ra great p p r t u i t yt share y u re x p e r i e c e u s i gN r t e ks e s r swith t h e rusers a r u dthe w r l d ,a dt learn f r r ntheir experience.

Communicating with usIf u need r n r ei f r r n a t i ,s u p p r t r t h e rassistance f r r nus, d thesitate t c t a c tus:

NortekASVangkroken 2 - 1 3 5 1RUD, NorwayPhone: +47 6717 4500, Fax: +47 6713 6770e-mail: [email protected]

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OVERVIEW

NORTEK VECTOR CURRENT R15User Manual

What's this Manual?

Chapter 1 - Getting StartedHere we introduce you to the Vector documentation, suggest which chapters it isa must to read, and detail the warranty conditions.

Chapter 2 - Main DataThis chapter provides the technical specifications.

Chapter 3 - Technical DescriptionIn this chapter you'll find a description of the Vector's functional principles,some o f the theory behind the Doppler principles, and practical aspects such asthe cable pin-outs.

Chapter 4 - lnitial PreparationAn important part of the manual dealing with receiving control, installation ofthe accompanying software and hints and tips making you sure that everythingworks as intended before you deploy your Vector.

Chapter 5 - Setting up for OperationHere you'll find a recommended procedure for data collection including deployment planning and mounting guidelines.

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61 OVERVIEWWhat's in this manual?

Chapter 6 - Autonomous Deployments

This chapter discusses how to deploy a Vector - specifically how to start andstop the deployment.

Chapter 7 - Real i m eMonitoringYou may find it more suitable for you to use the Vector in a real time monitoringsystem with online connection to a remote computer. This little chapter presentswhat you need to know to start and stop the measurements.

Chapter 8 - Getting Data Out of the VectorOnce your measurements have been completed you'll need to examine the dataacquired. This chapter explains the data formats so that the data acquired areinterpreted properly.

Chapter 9 - Use with other instrumentsThe Vector may be used with other Vectors, as a master (controlling the sampling), or as a slave (having the sampling controlled from the outside) and youmay have other external sensors connected to it. ln the latter case, these sensorsmay even be powered from the Vector. This chapter describes what to considerwhen setting up a multisensor system.

Chapter 1 - Troubleshooting.Does your data look different from what you expect? This chapter provides someanswers to why they do.

Chapter 11 - MaintenanceHere you'll find contains tips on how to keep your Vector in good conditionthroughout its life.

AppendicesAppendix 1 - Optional lssues provides a presentation of related products andgoodies available from the factory.

Appendix 2 - Spare Parts provides a list of spare parts for your Vector.

Appendix 3 - Returning Vector for Repair. In the unlikely event ofthe need fora return for repair - the procedure to follow is given here.

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DETAILS

The Table of ContentsSoftware updates and technical support ............................................................................ .4Your Feedback is appreciated .............................................................................................. 4Nortek Forum Support ........................................................................................................ 4Communicating with us ...................................................................................................... 4

CHAPTER 1 Getting Started ................................................................................................................ 11

get you up and running: ................................................................................................11

Warranty ............................................................................................................................ 12

CHAPTER2 Main Data ............................................. ................................................... .......................... 13Specifications ..................................................................................................................... 14Genera1 ............................................................................................................................... 14Weight and outline dimensions .......................................................................................... 14Environmenta1 ................................................................................................................... 14Power ................................................................................................................................. 14Externa1 Power .................................................................................................................. 15Dimensions ........................................................................................................................ 15Materia1s ............................................................................................................................ 15

Sensors ...............................................................................................................................15

Data communication ......................................................................................................... 16Analogue lnputs ................................................................................................................. 16Water Velocity Measurement ............................................................................................. 16Sampling Volume .............................................................................................................. 16Doppler Uncertainty (noise) .............................................................................................. 17Echo Intensity .................................................................................................................... 17Software ("Vector") ........................................................................................................... 17Data Recording .................................................................................................................. 17Options ............................................................................................................................... 17

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81D A I L SContents

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

Technical Description ..................................................................................................... 19

Vector Components ............................................................................................................ 19

Probe with Transducers ..................................................................................................... 19Pressure and Temperature Sensors .................................................................................... 20Tilt Sensor .......................................................................................................................... 20Electronics Module ............................................................................................................ 20Compass ............................................................................................................................. 20Internal Batt ery Pack ......................................................................................................... 20Power & Communication Cable ....................................................................................... 20RS232 cable with Synch in/out .......................................................................................... 21RS232 cable with analogue inputs ..................................................................................... 21RS232 cable with option for analogue outputs .................................................................. 21Wiring of 8-conductor cable for RS422 communication .................................................. 21Functional Description ...................................................................................................... 22

The Vector has three different modes of operation: .......................................................... 22Using the Doppler Effect ................................................................................................... 22Vector Sonar Principles ..................................................................................................... 23Data Handling .................................................................................................................... 25Interpreting and Analyzing the Data ................................................................................. 25Heading, Roll and Pi tch definitions ................................................................................... 26ASCII formats .................................................................................................................... 26Correcting for Sound Speed Errors ................................................................................... 28Error Codes and Status Codes ........................................................................................... 28

lnitial Preparations .......................................................................................................... 29

Inspect the Received System ............................................................................................. 29Included in the Vector Shipment ....................................................................................... 30Instal ling the Vector PC Software ..................................................................................... 30Verifying Proper Operat ion ............................................................................................... 30Run a Functionality Check ................................................................................................ 30The Probe Check Feature .................................................................................................. 32Probe Check Output in Air ................................................................................................ 33Counts- a Few Words on the term .................................................................................. 33Verifying operation with a radio ........................................................................................ 33Verifying the Tilt Sensor ................................................................................................... 34Verifying and Calibrating the Temperature sensor ........................................................... 34Verifying the Pressure Sensor ........................................................................................... 35Calibrating the Compass ................................................................................................... 36Testing the Recorder Function ........................................................................................... 37Starting with a Empty Memory ....................................................................................... 37

Setting up fo r Operation ................................................................................................. 39

Autonomous Deployment vs. Online Monitoring ............................................................. 39Verifying Performance Prior to Actual Deployment ........................................................ 41Data Collection- a Recommended Procedure .................................................................. 41 typical sequence includes: .............................................................................................. 41Deployment Planning ........................................................................................................ 42 begin planning a deployment: ....................................................................................... 42The following options are available: .................................................................................. 42Deployment Details - the Standard Tab ............................................................................ 43

The sound speed setup pane .............................................................................................. 45

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CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER10

CHAPTER 11

R VECTOR CURRENT R19User Manual

The geography setup pane ................................................................................................. 45Deployment Details - the Advanced Tab ......................................................................... .46

The setup pane ................................................................................................................... 47The analogue outputs pane ................................................................................................ 47The analogue inputs pane .................................................................................................. 47The deployment planning pane .......................................................................................... 48The Output Sync pane ....................................................................................................... 48The Input Sync pane .......................................................................................................... 48Starting with an Empty Memory ....................................................................................... 48Mounting guidelines .......................................................................................................... 49

"Weak Spots" ...................................................................................................................... 50Using Long Cables ............................................................................................................. 50Changing the Baud Rate .................................................................................................... 51

Autonomous Deployments ............................................................ ................................ 53Starting an autonomous deployment ................................................................................ 53Setting the Time and using Delayed Start-up ................................................................... 54Stopping the Recorder Deployment .................................................................................. 54

Real Time Monitoring .................................................................. .................................... 57

Starting a real time monitoring session ............................................................................ 57Stopping the Online (Real Time) Monitoring ................................................................... 58

Retrieving Data from the Vector ............................................................................... ..... 59 retrieve data from the Vector ................................................................ : ...................... 59Finalize Operations ............................................................................................................ 60 stop data collection ....................................................................................................... 60

Us e with Other lnstruments ........................................................................................... 61

Synchronizing with Other Instruments ............................................................................. 61Three possible modes of operation Input Sync ................................................................. 62The system data output order ............................................................................................. 63Specifications of Signal Levels .......................................................................................... 64Attaching External Sensors ............................................................................................... 66

Troubleshooting ................................................................... ........................................... 69

Noisy Data ......................................................................................................................... 69My Data Does Not Look Right .......................................................................................... 69

Grounding Problems .......................................................................................................... 70Mooring Tilt ....................................................................................................................... 70Mooring Vibration ............................................................................................................. 70Initial Problems? Did You Check This? ............................................................................ 70 Detection of the Vector on the Serial Port ................................................................... 71Running a serialloop-back test: ........................................................................................ 71Testing your interface cable: .............................................................................................. 71Diagnostic Testing Using the Probe Check Function ....................................................... 72

Maintenance ........................................................................ ............................................. 75

Preventive Maintenance .................................................................................................... 75Cleaning ............................................................................................................................. 75

Replacing the Desiccant .................................................................................................... 75

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0 I A I L SConten ts

Appendix 1

Appendix 2

Appendix 3

Installing and Replacing the Batteries .............................................................................. 76Corrective Maintenance .................................................................................................... 77

Optional lssues ............................................................................................................... 78The ExploreV Software ..................................................................................................... 78The following functions are covered: ................................................................................ 78ActiveX Components ....................................................................................................... 79

Spare Par ts ...................................................................................................................... 80

Returning Vector for Repair ........................................................................................... 82

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CHAPTER 1Getting Started


Thank you for purchasing a Nortek Vector Current Meter! The Vector CurrentMeter has been designed to provide you with many years of safe, re1iab1e serv-Ice.

Your approach to the Vector documentation depends on what you want to do andhow much you a1ready know. Depending on your requirements you may findthat you use some parts of this manua1 regu1ar1y and others not at a11.

However, before you start to use the system we do recommend that you 1ookthrough this user manual.

ge t you up an d running:

Before you start using the Vector Current Meter, p1ease fami1iarize yourse1fwith the Vector by reading the chapters 1, 2 and 3 ofthis user manual.

Verify that you have received all parts and ru n a functiona1 test of the Vectoraccording to the procedures given in chapter 4.

Start using the Vector according to procedures in chapter 5-9.

Perform regu1ar maintenance according to procedures in chapter 11.

On a scale from 1 to 10, the Vector is 7-8 terms of complexity. assureproper operation, we strongly recommend that you take your time to :

Browse the manual.Conduct a few test dep1oyments.

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121C H A P E R1Getting Started

WarrantyIn order to stay up-to-date and receive news and tips from the factory you shouldregister at our web site. Use the Internet and go to http://www.nortek-as.com/newsletter.php. Enter your name, e-mail address and topics of interest.

We also recommend our User Forum where you may post questions and discusswith other people in the oceanographic community. get to the User Forumenter http://www.nortek-as.com and click on Forum. I f you have no internet access or, i f you - for any other reason - prefer traditional mail or telefax, you mayfill in and return the registration part of the warranty sheet accompanying yourNortek product.

Nortek AS grants a one year limited warranty that extends to all parts and labourand covers any malfunction that is due to poor workmanship or due to errors inthe manufacturing process. The warranty does not cover shortcomings that aredue to design, nor does it cover any form of consequential damages as a result oferrors in the measurements.

In the unlikely event oftrouble with your Nortek product, first try to identify theproblem by consulting the documentation accompanying your Nortek product. Ifyou need further assistance when trying to identify the problem, please contactyour local Nortek representative or the factory.

Please make sure you receive a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA)

before any product or module is returned. An RM A can be obtained using oure-mail address: [email protected] or our Fax . : +47 6713 6770. See also Ap -p e n d x3.

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CHAPTER 2Main Data

The vector current meteroperating principle. pulse

is transmitted from thecenter transducer and the

doppler shift introduced bythe reflections from particles

suspended in the water, ispicked up by the 3 receivers.

The Vector Current Meter measures water speed using the Doppler effect.

You hear the Doppler effect whenever a train passes b y - the change in pitch youhear tells you how fast the train is moving. The Vector uses the Doppler effect tomeasure current velocity by transmitting a short pulse of sound, listening to its

echo and measuring the change in pitch or frequency of the echo.

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14 C H A P E R2Main Data

p !Use our website(http://www.nortek-as.com)to gain access to ou r latesttechnical notes and userexperience regarding dataanalysis.

Specifications

GeneralThe Vector runs on a PC with minimum Pentium 200 MHz processor. Windows / 2 0 0 0 / is recommended due to a better operating stability than Windows 9 5 / 9 8 / .

Weight and outline dimensionsTransport weight:Transport box dimensions:Weight in air:Weight in water:Length:Diameter:

Environmental

16 kg (transport box, all inclusive)26 122 26 [cm] ( w l h )

5.0 kg1.5 kg550 mm with batteries or 450 mm without75mm

Operating temperature range: -5 oc to +45 ocStorage temperature: -15 oc to +60 ocShock an d vibration: IEC 721-3-2

Pressure rating:

PowerDC input:

300m for canister. The pressure sensor handlesdepths of 1.5 pressure range

9-18VDCPeak current: 2.5 at 12 VDC (user selectable)Ma x consumption at 64Hz: 1.5 W ' y p i c a lconsumption at 4Hz: 0.6-l.OWSleep consumption: 0.0013 WNew battery voltage: 13.5 VDC

Data collection capacity: See planning section in softwareThe battery sustains sleep state for 4 years (RS232 only). The AC power adaptorrequires a 100-240V/50-60 Hz voltage supply.

External PowerYou can supply external power to the Vector. If you use an internal battery tobackup data collection, an external supply of 15 VDC provides a higher voltagethan the battery pack This prevents the internal pack from discharging. Then, ifexternal power fails, the internal battery pack takes over and sustains operation.

Be careful not to exceed maximum permitted supply voltage, whichis 18 V.

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NORTEK VECTOR CURRENT R 15User Manual

Dimensions

Materials

Delrin housing. Titanium probe and screws.

Sensors

00

"'

w

Temperature (thermistor embedded in end bell)Range: - 4 oc to +40 ocAccuracy/Resolution: 0.1 C/0.01 oc i m econstant: 10 min

Compass(flux gate with liquid tilt)Maximum tilt: 30

Accuracy/Resolution: 2/0.1 for tilt


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161CHAPTER 2Main Data

Accuracy/Resolution:

Time constant:

Data communication1/0:Baud rate:User control:

Analogue outputs:

Analogue lnputs . of channels:lnput impedance:A/D converter:Power source:

0.25% of full scale/ Bet ter than 0.005% of full scale

0.1 sec

RS-232 or RS-422300-115200Handled via Vector Win32 software, Active_Xfunction calls, or direct commands3 channels standard, one for each velocitycomponent. Output range is 0 - 5V, scaling is userselectable. Optional version available with pressure output instead of vertical velocity component. The pressure scaling is fixed:5 . 0 V 16.384m

24 7 0 k / 1 0 0 n F

16 bitBattery voltage, 5VDC or 12VDC(please specify)

Water Velocity MeasurementAvailable ranges (O.Olrnls):

Accuracy:Sampling rate (output):Internal sampling rate:

Sampling VolumeDistance from probe:Diameter:Height (user selectable):

0.01; 0.1; 0.3; 1; 2; 4; 7 [m/s](software selectable)0.5% ofmeasured value, lmm/s1-64Hz100-250Hz

0.15 m15mm5-20 mm

Doppler Uncertainty (noise)Typical uncertainty at 16 Hz: 1% of velocity range

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Echo lntensityAcoustic frequency:Resolution:Dynamic range:

Software ("Vector")Operating system:

Functions:

Data RecordingCapacity (standard):

OptionsAcoustic beams:Battery:External battery:

6 M H z

0.45 dB90dB


Windows 95/98, Windows 4.0,Windows 2000, Windows Deployment planning, start with alarm,data retrieval, ASCII conversion.Online data collection and graphical display

Test modes

2 ,expandable up to 1 5 4

Probe mounted on fixed stem or cableRechargeable batteries on request4 battery packs in 75mm diameter,500mm length. External canister.

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18 C H A P E R2 ain Data

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NORTEK VECTOR CURRENT METER 19User Manual

CHAPTER 3

The slanted labels (bottomleft), identify parts located

inside the casing.

Technical Description

Vector Components~ E n d b e l l

. . .

Probe with Transducers

Pressure sensor

Receiver arm

Transmittransducer

The probe is mounted either on a cable or a fixed stem connected to the mainhousing through the probe end bell.

The probe consists of three receive transducers, each mounted inside a r e c e v e rarm, and a transmit transducer in the centre. The transducers are each coveredwith a hard epoxy and the probe is otherwise titanium.

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20 ICHAPTER 3Technical Description

Pressure and Temperature SensorsThe pressure and temperature sensors are located inside the end bell.

Tilt SensorThe tilt sensor is mounted on a small round daughter board attached inside theprobe end bell. It is normally aligned parallel to the axis of pressure case axis forvertical operation. It can, however, optionally be installed perpendicular to thepressure case axis for operation with the pressure case horizontal. The tilt sensorworks equally well with the instrument pointed up or down.

Electronics ModuleThe electronics module is located inside the pressure case, and is a single boardthat holds the power transmitter, analogue and digital signal processing, powerconditioning and the standard data recorder.

CompassThe compass is located inside the pressure case, and measures the earth's magnetic field. Combined with the tilt sensor on the head, the compass enables the

+ Vector to obtain the heading. Without a compass, the Vector can still measureThe power connector pin-out. tilt. The compass enables the Vector to convert velocity measurements to Earth

coordinates.

9

The 9-pin 0-subconnector pin-out.

The 8-pin underwaterconnector pin-out.

lnternal Battery PackThe internal battery pack is located inside the pressure case, and enables autonomous deployments. It also provides backup power in the event of failure of theexternal supply. Standard alkaline battery packs use 18 cell batteries at anominal starting voltage of 13.5VDC.

Power & Communication CableThe power and communication cable is mounted to the external connector. Thecable supplies external DC power (9-18V) and connects an external computer tothe Vector for 2-way serial communication.

:rCable Wiring. The Vector comes standard with an 8-conductor connector andcable. The Vector power and battery lines are diode protected, so you don't haveto worry about wiring the Vector power backwards- this will not damage yourinstrument. The signals available from the Vector depend on the internal harnessapplied. Any of the harness configurations described in the tables on the following page can be used.

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RS232 cable with analogueinputs

RS232in/out

cable with Synch

RS232 cable with option foranalogue outputs

*)Qptional version outputs pressure

instead of Z-velocity

Wiring of 8-conductor cablefor RS422 communication

Note: and Rx refer to the Vector- not to the PC!

Underwater connector

Pin n w b e r W r ecolor

3 Black

4 White

1 2 3 4 5 Black

1 ~ @ @ ~ 1@@@6 White/purple

5 6 7 8 7 BlackPin numbers, 8 White/orangelooking at the pins

I Black

2 White

Screen Bare


Pin number Wirecolor

3 Black

4 White

1 2 3 4

1 ~ @ @ ~ 15 Black

@@@@

5 6 7 8 6 White/purple7 Black

Pin numbers, l o o k n g8 White/orangeat the pins

I Black

2 White

Screen Bare

Underwaler connector

Pinnum- Wirecolorbe r

.3 Black1 2 3 4 4 White

1 @ @ @ ~ 1@@ 5 Black

5 6 7 8 6 White/purple7 Black

Pin numbers,looking at the 8 W h i t e / o a n g e

pins I Black

2 White

Screen Bare


1 2 3 4 Pin number Wire color

1 ~ @ @ ~ 13Black@@@@

4 White

5 6 7 8 7 BlackPin num-

8 White/orangebers, lookingat the pins 5 Black

6 White/purple

I Black

2 White

Screen Bare


T e m i n a t i o n

PurposePins Description

RS232 twisted 2

~ ~ air 1 - - - 9-pin RS232 Rx 3 Dsub, ~ RS232 ground twisted 5 female

. , . . . .0 0

pair Facing sockets

power output Red w r e

analogue input 2 twisted Green wire

analogue input 1pair

Yellow wire

power ground twisted Black wire 5.5mm(-)

power o s i t i epair

Red wire 1 -2 . 1 (+)

ground 3 bare wires for grounds, connect ed intemally to powerground

Purpose T e n i n a t i o n

Pins Description

RS232 twisted 2

: air 1-- - - 9-pin

RS232 Rx 3 Dsub, 00

female0 0 0 >

twisted 5 -

RS23 2 ground pair Facing sockets

Black wire

sync in Green wire

sync out twisted Red wire

not usedpair

White/orange wire

power ground twisted Black wire

power positivepair

Whitewire5.5mm(-)

1 - 2.1mm('+)

ground 3 bare wires for grounds, connected intemally topower ground

TerminationP u o s e

Pins Description

RS232 twisted 2~ ~ air f - - 9-pin

RS232 Rx 3 Dsub, >

twisted 5 female -

Ground pair Facing sockets

Analogue z* Red wireAnalogue twisted Green wire

Analogue pair

Yellowwire

Pow'er ground twisted Black wire 5.Srnm(-}

Powerposi-pair

Red wire 1 -2.1mm(+)

tive

Ground 3 bare wires for grounds, connected intemally topower ground

T e n i n a t i o n

P p o s ePins Description

RS422 + twisted 2 n c o c pair

~9-pin

RS422 - 3 Dsub, ~

RS422 Rx- twisted I female. . . -

pair - ~ Facing socketsRS422 Rx+ . 9Synch out twisted Black wire5

Synch inpair

Green wire

Power ground twisted Black wire I 5.5nvn Power positive

pairRed wire l - 2.1mm(+)

Power greound h r e eground lines through shield

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221CHAPTER 3Technical Description

1(8

rt

Functional Description rt

This section briefly describes some of the underlying principles that control the (Ioperation and application of the Vector Current meter.

The Vector has three different modes of operation:

Command mode. Vector in command mode is powered up and ready to taccept your instructions. If it gets no commands for about five minutes, it (tlautomatically goes into Power Down Mode.

Power Down Mode. The Power Down Mode saves power during deploymentsand prevents your battery from dissipating between deployments. The Vectorautomatically powers down from command mode after about five minutes of

inactivity. Data Acquisition Mode. The Vector enters data acquisition mode when you Iclick any of the Start commands (e.g. Start Recorder Deployment) in theVector software. Choose between: 4

Continuous Data Acquisition collects data without breaks. When you start 1continuous data acquisition, it is important to do so with the instrumentaligned up or down the same way it will collect data. 'I

Burst Data Acquisition collects data with breaks at regular intervals. When 8you start burst data acquisition, the instrument senses whether it is facing up

or down at the startof

each burst, and it adjusts itself accordingly.4

N o t e : I f you set the Vector to collect data, remove power, and then re-applypower later, the Vector will immediately resume data collection. Rememberthat the date and time may be lost.

Using the Doppler Effect

You hear the Doppler effect whenever a train passes by - the change in pitch youhear tells you how fast the train is moving. The Vector uses the Doppler effectto measure current velocity by transmitting short pairs of sound pulses, listeningto their echoes and, ultimately, measuring the change in pitch or frequency ofthe retumed sound.

Sound does not reflect from the water itself, but rather from particles suspendedin the water. These particles are typically zooplankton or suspended sediment.Long experience tells us that these small particles move with the same averagespeed as the water - the velocity it measures is consequently the velocity of thewater.

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The beams intersect at 157mmfrom the transmitter. The

measurement volume is definedby this intersection and rangegating in time. The transmitter

emits a short pulse coveringabout 4m m vertically, while

the receiver listens to an echocorresponding to about 14mm

vertically. Since the Vector uses

three receivers (only two arevisible in the Fig.)- all focusedon the same volume - three

velocity components areobtained.

The transmit/receive beam pairis sensitive to velocity in the

direction of the angular bisectorbetween the beams. The arrow

indicates a positive velocity.Since the receive beams are

slanted at 30 all three beampairs measure velocity that is

only 15away from the transmitbeam.

Vector Sonar Principles

NORTEK VECTOR CURRENT MErER 123User Manual

In contrast to standard Doppler profilers and current rneters, the Vector is a

bistatic sonar. This rneans that it uses separate transrnit and receive bearns. l ttransrnits through a central bearn and receives through three bearns displacedof f to the side.

The figure below shows how the bearns intersect each other 157rnrn frorn thetransrnitter. The rneasurernent volurne is defined by this intersection and byrange gating in tirne. The transrnit transducer sends a short pulse that coversonly about 4rnrn vertically, and the receivers listen to an echo that correspondsto about 14 rnrn vertically. Since the Vector uses three receivers, all focused onthe sarne volurne, it obtains three velocity cornponents frorn that very volurne.

Measurement volume

r-L()

~ 0=14mmh=14mm

The figure be1ow shows that a transrnit/receive bearn pair is sensitive to velocityin the direction of the angular bisector between the bearns. The arrow indicatesa positive velocity.

Since the receive bearns are slanted at 30, all three receivers rneasure the veloc-ity that is slanted about 15 frorn the transrnit bearn.

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The coordinates arecombined with compass and tiltdata to calculate the position as

ENU data. The Fig shows howthe are defined.

While older versions of the Vectorused a red marking to indicatethe X-direction, newer modelshave the direction engraved in

the probe end bell itself (see alsomore on the following page).

This means that the Vector is more sensitive to the Z-velocity (the componentparallel to the transmit beam) than it is to the - or Y-velocity. Consequently, the

Z-velocity component yields a lower measurement uncertainty.

Coordinate System. The Vector measures velocity components parallel to itsthree beams, or in beam components. It reports data in any one of the coordinatesystems, Beam, or ENU. The three ENU coordinates are:

East North Up

get to EN U components, it first converts the measured data to coordinates as defined in the Fig. below.

~

1z

View direction

The coordinates are relative to the probe and independent of whether theVector points up or down. The Vector uses its compass and tilt measurements toconvert velocity to components relative to earth, or ENU coordinates.

In coordinates, a positive velocity in the X-direction goes in the directionof the X-axis arrow. In ENU coordinates, a positive east velocity goes towardeast.

Moorings sometimes allow the Vector to tilt and rotate freely. The probe mea

sures its tilt and heading and uses this information to convert the data to trueearth coordinates.

p :Detailed information about the coordinate transformation equations usedin the Vector can be found on the Nortek WEB forum.

Velocity Uncertainty. The Vector velocity is an average of many velocity estimates (called n g s ) .The uncertainty of each ping is dominated by the shortterm error. We reduce the measurement uncerta inty by averaging together manypings. There is a limit to how much you can reduce your uncertainty. We call thislimit the long-term bias.

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p :Which di rec t ion is th e

X-direction?

Red marking~ ~

Pressure se nsor holes

For older probes (above), theX-direction is in the direction of

the red marking. However, if themarking is no longer visible, theX-direction is in the direction of

the arm opposing the pressuresensor holes of the probe endbell.

For newer probes (below), the X-

NORTEK VECTOR CURRENT RI 5User Manual

The long-term bias depends on internal signal processing, especially filters, andon your beam geometry. The long-term bias in the Vector is typically a fractionof

1 cm/s. The Vector softwarer e d c t s

errors based on the short-term error o f s n g l ep n gan d the number o f n g saveraged together. The short-term errorof a single ping depends on the size of the transmit pulse and the measurementvolume, and it depends on the beam geometry. veraging multiple pings reduceserrors according to the formula:

= v p i n gVmean

in which is the standard deviation and is the number pings you averagetogether.

N o t e : The Vector software predicts the instrumental error only. In many situations, the environmental turbulence or surface waves will dominate the shortterm velocity fluctuations.

Data HandlingThe Vector software creates binary files, which can be converted to ASCII for-mat files, using the Vector software.

direction is engraved in the probe The *.hdr file is a self-documented table. Please note that this file contains theend bell itself detailed data format of all the other ASCII files.

X-direction is indicated here

The *.dat files contains velocity and pressure data at the full sample rate.

The *.sen files contains system data such as the time/date, compass, tilt, temperature, bat tery voltage, etc. These data are sampled once per second.

You will find the ASCII files easy to import into most spreadsheets and dataanalysis programs. NORTEK recommends the use of a specially developed program for turbulent data analysis. The program is called ExploreV. See p p e n d x

2 -O p t o n a lc o n f i g u r a t o n s

and eatures for more on this.

lnterpreting and Analyzing the DataWe strongly recommend the use of our internet pages to gain access to the latesttechnical notes and user-experience regarding data analysis and related matters.

I f the data looks different from what you expected and you have reason to believe that this is instrument or deployment related, consult Chapter 1 0 - Trou-.b l e s h o o t n g

before taking other actions.

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261C H A P E R3Technical Description

The heading, pitch androll definitions.

For the two leftmost columns theVector is drawn facing up, andfor the tw o rightmost columns,

the Vector is drawn facing down.

Observe that for the rolldefinitions, probe arm 1

points towards the viewer.

Col. = Column

Heading, Roll and Pitch definitions

Heading 9 0

Pitch

\ f \1RollASCII formatsThe ASCII data format is subject to change, but the current format is always de-scribed in the header (.hdr) file generated by the data conversion function.

Sensors data (.sen)Col Type Unit Remarks

1 Month

2 Day

3 Year

4 Hour

5 Minute

6 Second

7 Error code Explained in a separate table

8 Status code Explained in a separate table

9 Battery

10 Sound speed m/s11 Heading

12 Pitch

13 Roll

14 Temperature oc

15 Analogue input

16 Checksum 1= failed, =

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NORTEK VECTOR CURRENT METER 127User Manual

Burst header data (.vhd)Col. = Column Col. Type Unit

1 Month

2 Day

3 Year

4 Hour

5 Minute

6 Second

7 . of velocity samples

8 Noise amplitudes (beam 1) counts

9 Noise amplitudes (beam 2) counts

10 Noise amplitudes (beam 3) counts11 Noise correlation (beam 1) %

12 Noise correlation (beam 2) %

13 Noise correlation (beam 3) %

Velocity data (.dat)Col. = Column Col. Type Unit

1 Burst counter

SN R = Signal-to-noise ratio

2

3

4

56

7

8

9

10

11

12

1314

) $ ) 15

/ 1c &' 17 ! ~ ( ' '}V. 18

Ensemble counter (0-65535)

Velocity (beam 1, or east)

Velocity (beam 1, y or north)

Velocity (beam 1, z or up )Signal strength (beam 1)

Signal strength (beam 2)

Signal strength (beam 3)

SNR (beam 1)

SNR (beam 2)

SNR (beam 3)

Correlation (beam 1)



Pressure

Analogue input 1

Analogue input 2

Checksum

m/ s

m/ s

m/ scounts

counts

counts

dB

dB

dB

%

%

%

1= failed, =

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RTC = Real Time Clock

Correcting for Sound Speed ErrorsIfyou enter the wrong salinity, the Vector will compute the wrong sound speed.You can correct velocities (V) for sound speed errors using the following equa-tion:

New sound speedVNEW = - - - - - - - - ' -

Oid sound speed

Error Codes and Status CodesThe below tables describe how the bits should be interpreted.

Error codesBit Description 17 Coordinate transformation Error

6 t reading Error

5 Beam . Error

4 Flash Error

3 Tag bi t Error

2 Sensor data Error

1 Measurement data Error Compass Error

Status codesBi t Description Details

7 00 = high 10 = JowPower e e l

6 01 = no used 11 = not used

5 00 = bad power 10 = break

4Wakeup state

01 = power applied 11 = RTC alarm

3 Roll = 1 = out of range

2 Pitch = 1 = out of range

1 Scaling = x1mm/s 1 = . 1mm/s

Up/Down = up 1 = down(probe points downwards) (probe points upwards)

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C H A P T E R 4

We strongly recommend thatyou check that the equipmentshown here is included in the

delivery. list of all items isprovided overleaf.

lnitial Preparations

We recommend the following procedure to prepare your new VectorCurrent Meter for future successfu\ operation:

1 Verify that you have received all parts.2 Install the internal battery pack.3 Install the Vector Software on a PC.4 Perform a functional test ofyour new Vector.5 When you are ready to make your measurements, mount the Vector in ac-

cordance with the guidelines provided in M o u n t n gg u d e l n e s(in this chap-ter).

lnspect the Received System

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30 I HAPTER 4lnitial Preparations

The following should be included in the Vector Shipment:

1 Transportation box2 Vector current meter3 NORTEK equipment storage box4 240V power cable5 AC adaptor (100-240VAC to 15VDC)6 Extra battery pack (there is one installed in the Vector already)7 External power/signal cable8 Packing list9 Warranty card10 Vector software CD11 Vector user manual

Note! Do not hesitate to contact NORTEK if you find that parts of thedelivery are missing.

lnstalling the Vector PC Software install the Vector software:

1 Insert the CD.2 Follow the on-screen instructions. Accept the default settings.

3 Restart your PC i f prompted to, to finalize the installation process.

Verifying Proper Operation

Run a Functionality Check

run a functionality check:

1 Plug in the AC adaptor and connect the Vector to the PC serial port.

2 Select Serial Port from the Communication menu to specify the port numberto use.

3 Accept the default baud rate settings (9600 baud), which is also the defaultinstrument baud rate.

4 Check the instrument communication and verify that the instrument is aliveby activating the Terminal Emulator window and press the Send Break button to send a BREAK signal over the serial port. break causes the instru

ment to report an identification string.

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The veloci ty in water (left part ofthe graph) and in air (right part

ofthe graph).


N o t e ! If the instrument fails to respond, the software can autoconnect tothe instrument. Press Stop Data Collection and wait until the instrument is

found. The correct serial port must be chosen.5 Fill a bucket with water and a little dir t (sound scattering material).

6 Start the Vector software. Click Online > Start data collection. When thetransducers are in air, the velocity measurements will look like randomn o s e .

7 Put the transducers in the water and observe the amplitude, the SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) and the correlation. The three tabular values should risenoticeably. Also watch the graphical view of the velocity as the probe goes inand out of the water. In air the graphs are noisy, while in water they shouldbe smooth. Note that the difference depends on the size, shape and materialof the bucket. If the velocity graphs remain weak with the probe in water, tr yvarying the position of the probe or add some seeding to the water in the formof dirt or small particles.

8 Check sensor readings:

Verify the tilt sensor - see V e r i f y n gthe l tSensor later in this chapter.

Temperature should be close to your room temperature, assuming the Vectorhas been in the room for a while. calibrate the temperature sensor - see

V e r i f y n gan d a l b r a t n gthe Temperature Sensor later in this chapter.

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321C H A P E R4lnitial Preparations

The probe check function showshow the signal varies with range. is the transmit pulse. is the area around the meas-urement volume.

C is a bottom echo. is a shift introduced by theswitching electronics, but sinceit is outside the measurementregion, its contribution will beinsignificant.

Check the reported pressure, the pressure should be near zero. Check thepressure sensor in a bucket 50 cm deep, or put your mouth over the pres

sure sensor and blow to create a pressure ofaround 0.5-lm. Ifyou need tocahnge the setting, see V e r i f y n gthe Pressure Sensor later in this chapter.

Battery voltage shall be greater than 13 VDC (new battery).

The Probe Check FeatureDesigned to act as a measurement quality assurance tool, the Probe Check function in the Vector software lets you inspect the region where the Vector makesits measurements by showing how the signal varies with range.

start the probe check:

1 Make sure the probe is submerged in water.

2 Click Online > Start Probe Check. You can use it to diagnose and correctproblems and to optimize data collection.

The three coloured graphs correspond to each of the three vector receive beams.Graphs are scaled in mm distance from the transmit transducer, parallel to thetransmit beam. One amplitude count corresponds to 0.45 dB in signal strength.

The letters correspond to the following: The transmit pulse. The part of the range, which contains the receive volume.C The bottom echo.

The actual sensing volume is a relatively narrow region within the broad peakindicated by . It is centred at sample 100-105 and normally extends across 3counts from the centre.

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Probe check in air:

: Transmit pulse. You shouldsee roughly the same transmitpulse irrespective of whether theprobe is in water or in air.

: This part of the curve isvariable and not important fortroubleshooting.

C: Noise level should be within5 amplitude counts of 50.

Probe Check Output in Air


If the probe check outputs look very different from above, see the chapter Troub l e s h o o t n gbefore taking further action.

Counts - a F ew Words on t h e t e r m

For signal strength, Nortek frequently make use of the word counts, which obviously seem to be connected to the decibel term, but how and why?

Inside the Vector there are circuitries for the amplification of input signals.The number of counts is an indicator of how much gain we niust apply to asignal- the less gain needed, the higher the input signal level is. The number

of counts is inversely proportional to the logarithm of the gain setting, whichmeans that a higher number of counts reflects a need for less amplification thana lower number of counts will do.

Strong signals have a higher noise immunity and they correlate much betterthan weak signals do.

For the Vector signal processing, 1 count ~ 0.4- 0.45dB. The term counts canalso be used in other contexts (viz. the analogue inputs) with a different relationship, not related to dB.

Verifying operation with a radioYou can easily check that the Vector is running with a radio. The Vector transmits energy at 6MHz, and a radio will pick up signals at this frequency and atsub-harmonics such as 3MHz, 1500kHz and 750kHz. Both 1500 and 750kHzare inside the radio band. Be sure to listen first with the Vector on the benchto choose the best frequency and to learn to identify the Vector's distinctivesounds.

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341CHAPTER 4lnitial Preparations

Verifying the Tilt Sensor

verify proper operation of th e tilt sensor:

~ 1Ifyour Vector is a standard unit, make sure the vector canister is in an uprightposition (like this: ). If it has been equipped with horizontal tilt, make sureit lies down (like this: __. ).

Turn canist er 180 as shown, to rule2 Watch the pitch and roll, which should be as close to 0 as possible.

out effects from a non-level surface 3when checking the tilt indicator.

It may happen that the surface is not completely level. You should thereforetu m the canister 180 (in the horizontal plane) to see if any deviations nowchange their sign (e.g going from + to - or vice versa).ig. a) applies to standard units, while

Fig. b) applies to units delivered withhorizontal tilt.

Uncertain about whether your Vector is with vertical or horizontal tilt? If

the tilt (pitch and/or roll) as indicated in the Sensors' pane is unrealistically farfrom when you place the canister (upright or lying down) on a table, yourVector is of the other type. (

.. t : ~ ~ : ~ ~ ' - : z ? : t ~ ~ : Z : > J ~ - ; , ~ f ' ~ 1 f i ~ ' " i i ~ ~ ; ~ ~ t ~ } ~ ~ ; : { ~ : : ; S J t 1 : ~ $ ; ~ $ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ } ~ ! ~ ~ f

Th e Sensors pane containsthe tilt, temperature, and

pressure data.

. _ . : : . ~ 1 . , u : . l i ~ Q ~ - l . _ > . 1 :,:i'.'"' ( , - ' L ~ ~ .J>1 trl .Qr l r : : ' : J . J

Verifying and Calibrating the Temperature sensor verify proper operation of the temperature sensor:

1 Submerge the c a n s t e rin water.

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The Temperature calibrationdialogue box contains completeinstructions on how to calibrate

the temperature sensor.

Right: Locating thepressure and temperature

sensor.

Fa r right: The Pressure Offsetdialogue box lets you change

the pressure offset setting.


2 Read the temperature. Observe that the temperature sensor's time constant isapproximately 5 minutes, so patience may be required here.

3 If you need to calibrate the temperature sensor, click Online > Temperaturecalibration and follow the instructions given in the dialogue box.

Verifying the Pressure SensorThe pressure sensor is located inside the canister as shown in the Fig below. Ifyou submerge the canister so that the end bell is just below the surface, the pressure should be equivalent to 0.6m (the length of the canister).

change the pressure setting:

1 Click Online > Se t pressure offset to produce the below dialogue box.

2 Follow the on-screen instructions.

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361CHAPTER 4lnitial Preparations

Th e Compass calibrationsubmenu contains complete

n s t r u c t i o n son how to c a l b r a t e .

Example of the Compassc a l b r a t i o nsubmenu after a

succesful c a l b r a t i o n .The dXand dY offset values indicate

detected o r g i noffset due toextraneous m a g n e t cfields.

Calibrating the CompassOnce mounted in a frame or near magnetic structures, you'll need to calibratethe compass to ensure that the ins trument compensates for the presence of mag-netic materials, including the internal battery, if not degaussed.

calibrate the compass:

1 Mount the Vector as required for your application.

2 Click Online > Compass Calibration to produce the below menu.

3 Click Start and rotate the Vector and the frame 360. The Vector must berotated in the same manner as for the tilt sensor verification (see V e r i f y n gthe l tSensor in this chapter for more on this). An y magnetic fields stemmingfrom the mounting frame will now be spotted and compensated for. The dis-play will typically look like shown below:

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Testing the Recorder Function

NORTEK VECTOR CURRENT M H E R 137User Manual

You can test the recorder with the same setup as above.

test th e recorder function:

1 Start data collection with Online > Start With Recorder.

2 Write a name to use for the file you will record internally.

3 After a few minutes retrieving your data, stop the data collection.

4 Retrieve your data by clicking Deployment > Recorder Data Retrieval.

5 Convert it to ASCII by clicking Deployment > Data Conversion.

6 Review the collected data with an ASCII text editor (i.e. Notepad).

Starting with an Empty Memory erase th e Vector's contents of data:

1 Make sure that you have transferred all the data you want to retain to yourcomputer ( if applicable) and that the data is in good shape.

2 Click Deployment > Erase Recorder.

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t

381CHAPTER 5 'nitial Preparations tt

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CHAPTER 5


Setting up for Operation

The Vector software program has been designed to aid you in the planning,execution, recovery and processing of autonomous Vector deployments. Thesoftware also contains a test section, including all functions required to operatethe Vector in real time applications (where the operation and data acquisition ismonitored from a computer).

Whether you intend to use the Vector in autonomous or real time monitoring applications, the setup procedure is essentially the same.

Autonomous Deployment vs . Online MonitoringAlthough designed primarily for autonomous deployments, the Vector may justas well be used in monitoring applications with online connection to a remotecomputer. You may then set up the Vector to record a copy of all data acquiredto the internal recorder, in addition to have the data transferred to the remote

computer. This is called Recorder Data Collection, as opposed to just Data Col-lection. The Vector may also be used together with other sensors or with a controller. When used with other Vectors, the Vector may act as master (controllingthe sampling of the other sensors) or as slave (sampling controlled by anotherVector). When used with a controller, the controller may serve as an externalstorage device (if applicable) and it may provide power and sampling controlcreating a very sophisticated system. All this is treated in detail in Chapter 9

- Use w t hOther lnstruments.

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40 I H A P R5Setting up for Operation

The main screen of the Vector software program

The top menu givesaccess to all func-

t o n sincluded inthe Vector

softwaref f i ~ ~ m i i i ~ i i ~ i f ; ; , ~ ~ ; ; ; ~ ~ ~ ~ ~Current system

lcons provide easyaccess to main

functions andsubmenus

Product data forthe Vector Current

Meter

Velocity data

N e w f l e

Open anexisting file

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Select the type of dataset to be displayed

Deployment Convert the

recorded

Start recorderdeployment

Start datacollection

collection

Stop disk

Start diskrecording

status

Sensor status

Graphicalpresentation of

the data typeselected fromthis line

About thesoftware

Help


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Verifying P e o r m a n c ePrior to Actual DeploymentYou probably want to v e f ythat your configuration works well and that you are go

ing to record rneaningful data before you deploy the Vector and leave it on its own.For this you rnay use the data collection rnode.

Do not forget to erase any data recorded by the Vector before the deployrnent isstarted, if storage capacity is crucial.

Data Collection- a Recommended Procedure discussed in Autonomous deployment vs. o n l n em o n t o r n gthe Vector systern

allows for both self-recording and real-tirne data collection (rnonitoring applications). However, both applications share the sarne procedure for deployrnentplann ing (i.e. instrurnent configuration).

typical sequence includes:

1 Install and/or plug in battery pack. See I n s t l l n g / R e p l c n gb t t e r e sin C h p t e r11 for details.

2 Install new desiccant, if necessary. See e p l c n gd e s c c a n tin C h p t e r11.

3 Run a cornpass calibration. See C l b r t n gthe Compas8 in h p t e r4.

4 Test Vector as d e s c b e din Run f u n c t o n l t ycheck in C h p t e r11.5 Set the real tirne clock in your PC (the o e c ttirne of day).

6 Use the Vector software to plan the deployrnent.Click Deployment > Planning.

7 Erase recorder. Click Deployment > Erase Recorder.

8 Start deployrnent. Click Deployment > Start Recorder Deployment.

9 Enter a 6-character deployrnent narne.

1 Set the Vector real tirne clock to PC tirne.

11 l f a p p r o p a t e ,set a delayed start-up tirne.12 Disconnect cable and install durnrny plug. Insert plug pins with silicone spray.

13 V e f ypinging with anAM radio just o rto deployrnent (unless, of course, youuse a delayed startup tirne ). See V e r i f y n go p e r t o n w t h r d in Chapter 4.

14 Install on site. Ensure that the acoustic bearns point where you want and that theyare not obstructed. If you use a cable probe with cornpass, please rernernber thatthe probe and the rnain housing need to be aligned.

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421CHAPTER 5Setting up fo r Operation

The Deployment dialogue boxhas two levels - Standard

and Advanced. The two areaccessed by clicking the

Deployment Planning begin planning a deployment:

From the main menu, select Planning from the Deployment pull-down menuor press the Deployment Planning icon to produce the deployment planningmenu. See the previous page for a presentation of the icons.

Th e Deployment Planning pull-down menu displays three options that mayserve as a starting point for your deployment planning.

The following options are available:

Use Existing lets you start with the previous settings ( h i sselection corre

sponds to the Deployment Planning icon).Load From File is used to read settings from a deployment (.dep) file.

Load From lnstrument is used to read settings from the instrument.

corresponding tab. This screen- . ; " - ' ; . : . ; , ; ; ; . ; ; : ; ; . ; : . . . ~ ~ . ; . ; ; ; .

shot shows the contents of theStandard tab panes.

The above menu contains all parameters required to speci fy the operation of theinstrument. Th e Deployment planning pane (the right part ofthe menu) also includes performance information, which is updated automatically as you changethe paramete r settings. when finished, click to accept the changes. By using

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The four panes of the Standardtab part of the dep\oyment

setup menu, and the ch eck

boxthat must be checkedif

the advanced settings are tobecome effective.


the Open/Save commands in the File menu (or by clicking the correspondingicons) the deployment parameters can be saved to file at any given time and re

loaded when it is timeto

actually deploy the instrument.The deployment planning dialogue box allows you to specify the instrumentoperation at two levels.

configure the instrument operation settings:

Use the Standard tab to configure the system with default settings for variousenvironments and mounting arrangements.

Use the Advanced tab to fine-tune the operation parameters.

Deployment Deta i l s - the Standard TabThe Standard tab of the Deployment Planning dialogue box contains the basicsetup tools and it has been divided into four panes.

The general setuppane

The sound speedsetup pane

The general setup pane:

Th e dep\oymentplanning pane

The geographysetup pane

Sampling rate. Sets the output rate for the velocity, amplitude, correlation,and pressure data. The output rate for all other sensors (temperature, compass, tilt, etc.) is fixed to 1 second.

This rate is the same as the rate at which data are recorded internally or to

disk. Nominal velocity range. The maximum velocity you expect to measure

during the deployment or experiment. This is a nominal velocity range (theactual values are shown in bottom right hand corner ofthe planning screen).Measurement uncertainty is roughly proportional to the nominal velocityrange - smaller velocity ranges give you better measurement uncertainty.

Typically, sampling at 16Hz will provide data with an uncertainty of 1% ofthe velocity range.

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441C H A P R5Setting up fo r Operation

minimize noise, the velocity range should be set as low as possible, whileyou at the same time make sure the actual velocities do not exceed the range

set. Please observe that the maximum velocity is not the same for the horizontal and the vertical velocity - see the bottom right hand corner of the displayfor the exact values.

Note! Ifthe actual velocities exceed the maximum velocity, your data willbe impaired and may become unusable.

Continuous sampling. Sets the inst rument to collect data continuously, without pause. Only recommended for online applications.

N o t e ! In continuous sampling mode the Vector checks for up/down orienta

tion at the beginning of the sampling interval only.

Burst intervai/Number of samples per burst. Sets the instrument to collecta number of samples at the specified sampling rate. The burst interval is thetime between each measurement burst. The instrument will go to sleep toconserve power and recorder capacity after each burst. This is the preferredcon:figuration for autonomous deployments.

N o t e ! In burst sampling mode the Vector checks for up/down orientation atthe beginning of each burst interval.

Coordinate system. The coordinate system can be selected to Beam, ,orENU. Beam means that the recorded velocity will be in the coordinate systemof the acoustic beams. means that the measurements are transformed toa :fixed orthogonal coordinate system ofthe probe, and ENU means thatthe data are converted to geographic coordinates once per second.

Th e sound speed setup pane:

Speed of sound. Speed of sound can be set by the user (Fixed) or calculated bythe instrument based on the measured temperature and a user-input value for sa-linity (Measured). The salinity is for fresh water and typically 35 for the ocean.

Th e geography setup pane:

Geography. Choose the setting that best fits your deployment. The settingdetermines the Vector transmit level. The difference between the lowest andthe highest setting is approximately 7 dB. see the consequence of the different choices watch the effect on battery utilization.

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NORTEK VECTOR CURRENT M H E R 145User Manual

p !Because the surf zone and rivers normally have high backscatter, thesechoices reduce transmit power (and therefore battery utilization). If you areworking in a river or stream, which you know has a low backscatter - selectLakes instead.

The deployment planning pane:

Assumed duration. Enter the number of days you would like to collect data.This value, together with the other deployment parameters and the hardwareconfiguration, will be used for calculating the battery utilization and the recorder memory requirements.

This value has no effect on the actual deployment configuration and the sys

tem w l lnot stop after the number of days entered here.The rest of the fields of this pane appear ghosted in the menu to indicate that theyare not subject to user inputs. Instead, these fields list performance informationcalculated by the Vector software based on your inputs.

Battery utilization. The expected battery life based upon total battery capacity, current duty cycle, and assumed duration.

Caut ion! The basis for the battery utilization calculations is aB unused (fullycharged) 50Wh battery. If you are using a partly deployed battery, the calculated percentage will be incorrect.

Memory required. The recorder memory required to fulfil the planned deployment as entered by the user configuration parameters and the plannedlength of the deployment.

Verticai/Horizontal velocity range. theoretical estimate of the actualvelocity range along the vertical axis (along the transmit axis) and in theplane perpendicular to the transmit axis (usually the horizontal plane). Theestimates are based on probe geometry and serve to help you set the correctvelocity range.

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The Advanced tab settings of theDeployment dialogue box.

The six panes of the Advancedtab part of the deployment setup

menu, and the Update from

Standard tab field - see text fordetails.

Deployment Detai ls- the Advanced TabThe Advanced tab ofthe Deployment Planning dialogue box lets you fine-tunethe setup.

The setup pane

Update fromStandard f e l d

Analogue outputspane

Analogue inputs pane

Output Syncpane

The deploymentplanning pane

lnput Sync pane

Note! The Use Advanced Settings box (Standard tab) must be checked forthe advanced settings to be effective.

Some changes made in the Standard tab (like changing the Geography setting) will have consequences for the settings in the Advanced tab. makesure these changes are incorporated in the Advanced settings, refresh theAdvanced settings by pressing the Update from Standard button (Advancedtab).

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The setup pane:


Sampling volume. When reducing the sampling volume size, the totalnumber of samples used for the velocity calculation is reduced. The effect ofthis reduction is that the precision of the measured velocity is reduced. This isparticularly useful close to boundaries because the maximum vertical extentis limited by the acoustical beam geometry.

Measurement load. Within each second, the instrument can either be in active mode (collecting data) or in idle mode (not collecting data). The Measurement load is the relative time spent in active mode within each second andcan have value from (no data collection) to 100 (always in active mode).

Transmit length. The effect of increasing the transmit length is that the signal-to-noise ratio is increased. When changing the transmit length the available sampling volumes sizes is also changed. You may reduce the transmitpulse length as a means of reducing the sampling volume and/or get closer toboundaries. You may increase the pulse length to increase the signal strength(and thus the S N R - the Signal-to-Noise-Ratio) in clear water.

Power level. The power level bar sets how much acoustic energy the instrument transmits into the water. The difference between the highest level andthe lowest level is about 7 dB. Unless you know your environment has highbackscatter, you should generally use HIGH power.

The analogue outputs pane:

Analogue outputs. When analogue output is enabled, the 3D velocity (or 2Dvelocity + pressure for the optional version of the e c t o r )is output as a 0- 5continuous signal over a separate set of three wires, one for each velocitycomponent. Full range specifies the velocity range that will correspond to thefull analogue output range.

The use of analogue outputs requires a special internal harness. Some systems are equipped with this at the time of purchase, but you may purchase theharness separately and have the e c t o rupgraded.

File w r a p p n g .If checked, data is logged to the intemal instrument recorder

in ring-buffer mode. This ensures that the recorder always holds the latestdata. If not checked, data logging will stop when the recorder is full.

The analogue inputs pane:

Analogue inputs. The instrument can read two analogue inputs at the sametime. Select FAST to sample data at the same rate as the velocity. SelectSLOW to sample data at 1Hz. Note that only one SLOW input is allowed. Theinput range is - 5 ,where equals counts, 5 equals 65 535 counts and2 . 5 equals 32 768 counts.

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Check the Output power box to supply power from the instrument to yourexternal sensor. The voltage output is fixed at the time of production to either

5V, 12V or to the instrument voltage.The use of analogue inputs requires a special internal harness. Some systemsare equipped with this at the time of purchase, but you may purchase the harness separately and have the Vector upgraded.

The deployment planning pane:

Deployment planning is described under the previous section for the Stand-ard tab.

Th e Output Sync pane:

Output Sync fo r Vector is used when this Vector is to be synchronized withother Vectors - using this Vector as master. See External y n c h r o n z a t o ninthe chapter Use w t hOther Instruments for details.

Output Sync fo r other sensor is used when the Vector is to be synchronizedwith other (non-Vector) instrumen tat ion- using the Vector as master. See External y n c h r o n z a t o nin the chapter Use w t hOther Instruments for details.

The lnput Sync pane:

Start on Sync is used when starting this Vector is to be controlled from remote (from another sensor or other external instrumentation). See External

S y n c h r o n z a t o nin the Chapter 9 - Use w t hOther Jnstruments for details. Sample on Sync is used when this Vector's sampling is to be controlled from

remote in addition to the start (from another sensor or other external instrumentation). See External S y n c h r o n z a t o nin Chapter 9 - Use w t hOtherJnstruments for details.

Note! If you leave the Vector collecting data, it will continue running untilthe batteries are dead. Always make sure to stop data collection when testingis complete. This puts the Vec-tor into command mode and it will then enterinto a sleep state (the lowest possible power consumption) after 5 minutes ofinactivity.

Starting with an Empty Memory

erase the Vector's contents of data:

1 I f applicable, make sure that you have transferred all the data you want toretain to your computer and that the data is in good shape.

2 Click Deployment > Erase Recorder.

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Mounting guidelines


!Mount the Vector to a fixed structure using a clamp aroun.d its pressurecase. The fixed probe is not strong enough to serve as the only mountingpoint!

The f o l l o w n gg u d e l n e sshould be observed:

When mounting the Vector near large obstructions (bridges, piers, walls,etc.), ensure that there are no obstructions between the sensor and the focalpoint (sampling volume) located about 15cm from the transducers. Obstruc-tions directly behind the sampling volume may corrupt the data.

Keep the Vector compass away from magnetic materials. Consider the frameor cable holding the Vector, and the structure it is mounted on. Nearby mag-netic materials could cause the compass readings to be in error. If magneticmaterials are nearby, the best recommendation is to use coordinates, asthe Vector then does not use the compass.

Consider the effects of large objects the flow itself. rough rule of thumbis that objects disturb the flow as far as 10 diameters away from the object.Flow disturbance is greatest directly downstream in the wake behind the ob-ject.

All acoustic transducers must be submerged during data collection. Operat-ing with the transducers out of water will not cause damage, but your datawill be meaningless.

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50 I H A P E R6Setting up fo r Operation

"Weak Spots"For down-looking Vector probes, the presence of a boundary close to the Vectorsampling volume may give rise to problems. This is especially the case if theboundary is hard (rocks, concrete, glass, etc.) and/or the water echo is weak.

For each velocity range, there are one or two distances that give rise to problems.The existence of these weak spots can be identified in the data record by a decrease in the correlation and an increase in the velocity variance. This is mostlyseen in flumes with a hard bottom but has also been observed in the field, especially at the higher velocity ranges.

The phenomenon is related to the spatial separation between the pulse pairstransmitted by your Vector. be more precise, it occurs when the first pulse

hits the bottom as the second pulse goes through the sampling volume. The position is thus deterministic and can be calculated.

For a standard Vector, the distances from the sampling volume to the boundarythat should be avoided are:

Range "Weak spots"7 m/s: 2 cm and4 cm4 m/s: 3 cm and 6 cm2 m/s: 5 cm and 9 cm1 m/s: 8 cm and 20 cm

0.3 m/s: 20cm

0.1 m/s: 46cm0.01 m/s: 312 cm

The distances are approximate and have a vertical extent of about 1 cm. 41

The problem is less acute at the lower ranges and th is - by itself- is a good rea- 41

son to avoid1

thke _higherbranges unless needed. Another way out of the problem is to use side- n gpro es; the issue goes away if there are no boundaries in thepath of the transmit pulse.

Using Long CablesRS 232 data communication at 9 600 baud wil l normally work fine for cables upto 10-50m oflength, depending on the environment. Ifyou want to ru n a longercable, you can switch to RS 422 by installing an RS 422 harness available fromNORTEK.

You can also try using RS 232 with longer cables by reducing the baud rate. Keepin mind that RS 422 is a more reliable means of communication than RS 232- changing environmental conditions could cause RS 232 communications to failover a long cable without apparent reason.

t

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Changing the Baud Rate


You may specify two separate baud rates for the Vector. The primary baud rate

setting applies to normal communication and data transfer. You can also seta second, separate baud rate for data download and firmware upgrades (thedownload/configuration baud rate). higher baud rate speeds up large filetransfers and is appropriate when you have a short serial cable and a relativelynoise-free environrnent.

The standard baud rate is 9 600, and we recornrnend that you use this baud rateunless you have a good reason to change it. However, for 64Hz data collection,you will need to use 19 200 baud.

change the baud rate and make it permanent, do the following:

1 Set up the Vector and connect it to your cornputer.2 Set the baud rate in Communication > Serial Port to the baud rate you prefer.

Press Stop Data Collection. The software will change the baud rate and rnakeit perrnanent.

Ifyou remove power and reapply it, the Vector will re-awake with the new baudrate.

Note! If data download is interrupted, the Vector rnay be left with a baudrate setting other than the one used for norrnal cornrnunication. When thesoftware tries to establish cornrnunication in such cases, it rnay spend a fewrnornents searching for the correct baud rate to use.

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t521CHAPTER 6Setting up fo r Operation

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NORTEK VECTOR CURRENT R\5 3User Manual

CHAPTER 6

Set the deployment start timeby clicking Deployment >

Start Recorder Deployment(right). log file (far right) is

generated using the file nameyou assigned. We recommend

that this file is retained for futurereference .

Autonomous Deployments

Before you deploy the Vector you should have gone through the initial preparations, see Chapter 4 - I n t a lP r e p a r a t o n sfor details this. You should alsogo through the Deployment P l a n n n gdescribed in Chapter 5 - S e t t n gup fo rO p e r a t o n.

start an autonom'ous deployment:

1 Define a new deployment configuiation or load a saved configuration frommemory. define a new deployment configuration, see Chapter 5 - S e t t n gup fo r O p e r a t o nfor details .

2 Click Deployment > Start Recorder Deployment, and enter a short deployment name (used for the internal data file). The program allows you to set theVector's internal clock (see below), a1:1d then gives you a final review of theinstrument setup, just before you start it up. The software creates a log fileusing your deployment name with the setup parameters. You should keep thisfile in your records

' " ~ :--' D e l o y a e n t e $ t . -; ~ C . r - r : m t . ~ .. : : 2002/02;12 11 40 so- St...).:rt . 2002"/02/12 1) : . 40 . C.aa.ent

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