CATH-TECH CI-100TS, Operation Manual

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Revised July 2020 CI-100TS Current Interrupter Manual 18
Using the Auxiliary Power
The unit can be powered by an external DC or AC source with a voltage range from 12 to 30 volts.
This is done through the two banana jacks on the side.
DC Power
This could be a battery bank of some sort. A lead acid car battery is commonly used. Output from a
solar panel could also work, provided the voltage is at least 12 V DC.
AC Power
The unit can be powered from the taps on the rectifier if they are available for connection. Use a
DVM to determine which taps provide the correct voltage for the current interrupter. Depending
on the rectifier transformer this may be the coarse or fine taps.
Shut the rectifier down and follow any relevant safety procedures before attempting to connect
directly to the rectifier. Plug two leads into the banana jacks on the current interrupter. Attach the
other ends to the taps identified by the DVM. Turn the rectifier on and re-confirm the voltage
being provided to the auxiliary power input. The voltage will change as the rectifier is interrupted.
Ideally, the taps chosen will maintain a voltage between 11V and 30V throughout the interruption
cycle. Anytime they are out of this range, the interrupter is relying on the internal battery.
GPS (Global Positioning System)
The GPS antenna is equipped with a magnet base to allow the antenna to be placed on top of the
rectifier. The GPS antenna must be placed in a location where it has a clear view of the sky. GPS
Antenna extension cables are available from Cathodic Technology Limited in 30 metre lengths. In
some situations, the GPS antenna can acquire a signal when indoors, we recommend placing the
antenna near a window to improve the chances of signal acquisition.
If the CI-100TS has been moved more than 50 Km. it may take a few minutes for the GPS engine to
re-establish its almanac and obtain a lock on the Global Positioning Satellites. When the GPS engine
has acquired the minimum number of satellites and it has calculated its position the date and time
will be shown on the screen and the unit will enter Operation mode.
Operating without GPS
The unit requires a GPS lock to acquire information about the current time and date. Once that
lock is established, the user may unplug the GPS antenna or move the unit indoors and it will
continue to interrupt based on the time from its internal clock. For long-term accuracy, maintaining
a GPS signal is highly recommended.
Heat Sink
During operation the internal relays can generate heat. Ensure the heat sink on the bottom is free
of debris and has some air movement. Heat dissipation can be improved by setting the unit on its
side to improve air circulation.