Service Manual 63
© 2018 Nortek AS
3.1 Function Testing
Always test the instrument before a deployment/measurement sequence to verify that it works as
expected. The Final Test Checklist (Appendix A) has been used at the factory for years and is a
quick, but good checklist that can be used as a template for the function testing of your system.
Also, make sure you have the most recent software and firmware installed. The most recent are
always available on our web site.
3.1.1 Initial Test Setup
3.1.1.1 Power
The first step is to make sure the instrument has a source of power.
Internal batteries (Vector)
The internal battery pack is located inside the pressure case. Nortek alkaline battery packs use 18
AA cell batteries at a nominal starting voltage of 13.5 VDC.
Note that the battery pack inside the pressure case is disconnected when sent from Nortek. Refer to
the Changing a battery pack section for instructions on how to connect or change a battery pack.
The voltage of alkaline batteries falls quickly at the beginning, slowly during most of its life, then
again quickly at the end. Thus, a 13.5 VDC battery pack will spend most of its life somewhere in a
voltage range of 10.5-12.5 VDC. Find more information about the Nortek Batteries at our web site.
The instruments are shipped with an external power supply, which we recommend you use for all but
the final testing. If you leave the instrument collecting data, it will continue to run until the batteries
are dead. Always make sure to stop data collection when testing is complete.
External power
You may supply power with the external supply that is delivered with the system, or you can use
your own external supply. If you use your own supply, be sure the voltage does not exceed the
voltage specification for your instrument. Check out the data sheet for your specific instrument for
exact requirements, which is also available on the web.
Vector power range: DC input 9-15 VDC
Vectrino power range: DC input 12-48 VDC
Vectrino Profiler power range: DC input 12-48 VDC
Vectors: If you want to use an internal battery as a backup battery: The instrument will pick the
power source with the highest V. If using an external supply of 15 VDC and an internal battery of
13.5 V, the external supply provides a higher voltage than the battery pack, which prevents the
internal pack from discharging. Then, if external power fails, the internal battery pack takes over and
sustains operation.
The power and battery lines are diode protected, so you do not have to worry about wiring the
instrument power backwards - this will not damage your instrument.
3.1.1.2 Converter
A compatible converter is included with all instruments. Currently there are two USB converters that
are guaranteed to work with the instruments:
USB/RS232: the FTDI model US232R
USB/RS422: Altronix AL310
Connect the serial cable to the converter, and insert it into the USB drive of the computer. For first
time use, give the converter enough time to install its driver correctly. If the driver is not installed
To Next Page
Loading...
