Battery operation
The MT-AIO includes a standard 8 pack AA holder. This connects to the PCB using a
standard 9 volt style battery clip. This clip notwithstanding, the device will not
satisfactorily run on a 9 volt transistor radio battery! Battery connections are notoriously
common points of failure for battery powered devices. The MT-AIO was designed to
allow end-users to replace the battery clip using nothing more than a small screwdriver.
The MT-AIO will run well from 9 to 13.6 volts DC. This allows a wide variety of options
for power if needed, including lithium, NICAD, NIMH, or alkaline batteries. It is
possible that batteries going into the last segment of their lives will exhibit erratic
behavior, and cause the MT-AIO to continuously recycle. Naturally, these batteries
should be removed and disposed of. (Or recharged)
Please note that connecting the
battery connector backwards may damage the MT-AIO.
A polarity protection
steering diode has been installed in this transmitter, as opposed to the last version of the
MT-AIO, which had a “crowbar” protection circuit. To operate the MT-AIO from
external power, use a fused line. Please be careful not to install the battery cartridge in a
way that allows its snap connectors to short across the PC Board. This can cause the
battery case to melt and the batteries to explode or leak.
Operation
The internal GPS antenna is horizontally oriented. In general use, this does not present a
problem using the unit in upright operation. It is recommended that the unit be powered
on initially after a long period without being powered, or after having relocated the unit
to a distant location from the last general area of operation. Allowing the unit to face
upright during this time will allow the GPS to more easily view multiple satellites and
locate itself in the universe quickly.
Summary of Contents for Micro-Trak All-In-One
Page 9: ...Schematic...