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The Raven Radar™ is a sophisticated installation designed to provide accurate speed and distance measurements for agricultural applications, primarily in conjunction with Raven SCS Consoles. This device is crucial for precision farming, enabling consistent application rates and efficient operation of various implements. The installation manual outlines the necessary steps for proper mounting, cabling, and calibration to ensure optimal performance.
The primary function of the Raven Radar™ is to measure ground speed, which is then used by Raven SCS Consoles to calculate application rates, area covered, and other critical operational data. It operates by emitting radar waves towards the ground and analyzing the reflected signals to determine the vehicle's speed relative to the ground. This method provides a more accurate speed measurement than wheel-based sensors, especially in conditions where wheel slip might occur, such as in loose soil or on uneven terrain. The radar's line of sight to the ground is critical for its accuracy, and the installation guidelines emphasize maintaining an unobstructed path from the lens to the ground. The radar can be tilted within a specific range (0-15 degrees) to provide additional clearance and avoid obstructions, which is a key feature for adapting to various vehicle types and operational environments.
The radar system integrates seamlessly with Raven SCS Consoles, including SCS 400, SCS 500, SCS 700 PGM A thru D, and SCS 440 PGM A thru D. For specific console models, a radar adapter (P/N 063-0159-590) is required, while for others, a radar interface cable (P/N 115-0159-539) facilitates the connection. This modularity ensures compatibility across a range of Raven systems, allowing users to upgrade or integrate the radar into existing setups. The radar's ability to provide precise speed data directly impacts the accuracy of chemical, fertilizer, or seed application, leading to better resource management and improved crop yields.
The Raven Radar™ is designed for straightforward installation and calibration, although adherence to specific guidelines is essential for optimal performance. The mounting process involves selecting a suitable location on the vehicle, ensuring the radar's lens is parallel to the ground from front to back, and that the length of the radar is parallel with the direction of travel. The manual suggests using a large, heavy mounting bracket (optional, P/N 107-0159-693) attached to the vehicle frame for secure installation. The radar's pattern diagram illustrates the required and desired clearance areas, highlighting the importance of avoiding obstructions like structures or tires, and ensuring crop foliage does not come closer than 20 inches to the bottom of the radar. This visual guidance helps users position the radar correctly to maximize its effectiveness.
Calibration is a critical usage feature, ensuring the radar's speed measurements are accurately translated by the SCS Console. The manual provides detailed calibration procedures for all SCS Consoles (except SCS 400) and a separate procedure for SCS 400 Consoles. These procedures involve setting specific parameters on the console, driving a known distance (typically 1 mile or 1 kilometer), and then adjusting the SPEED CAL number based on the observed distance. The process emphasizes the importance of driving at a consistent speed, accelerating and decelerating slowly, and using section lines or highway markers for accurate distance determination, rather than the vehicle's odometer. This meticulous calibration ensures the radar provides highly reliable speed data, which is fundamental for precise application control. The ability to recheck and refine the SPEED CAL number further enhances the accuracy of the system, allowing users to fine-tune the radar's performance for their specific operational needs.
While the manual does not explicitly detail routine maintenance for the Raven Radar™ itself, it implicitly emphasizes proper installation and cabling as key aspects of maintaining its functionality and longevity. The caution regarding reverse polarity during power connection highlights a critical installation detail that, if overlooked, could lead to damage to the radar. This suggests that careful attention during initial setup is a primary form of preventative maintenance. The use of specific radar adapter and interface cables for different console models also implies that ensuring these connections are secure and correctly matched is essential for the system's continuous operation.
The "Disclaimer" section at the beginning of the manual also touches upon maintenance, stating that Raven Industries shall not be held responsible for any modifications or repairs made outside their facilities, nor damages resulting from inadequate maintenance of the system. This underscores the importance of professional service or strict adherence to manufacturer guidelines for any repairs or adjustments. Although not explicitly stated as a maintenance feature, the robust design implied by the need for a heavy mounting bracket suggests the radar is built to withstand the rigors of agricultural environments, minimizing the need for frequent physical maintenance. The focus on accurate calibration as a usage feature also serves as a form of operational maintenance, ensuring the system continues to provide reliable data over time. In essence, the maintenance of the Raven Radar™ largely revolves around correct installation, proper cabling, and accurate calibration, all of which contribute to its long-term performance and reliability in the field.
General| Number of Channels | 7 |
|---|---|
| EQ | Yes |
| EQ Bands | 3-band |
| Aux Sends | 1 |
| USB | Yes |
| Phantom Power | Yes |
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