Förster-Technik TAP5-CH2-25, Original Operating Instructions

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Running the automatic feeder 47
6 Running the automatic feeder
This chapter explains how to operate your automatic feeder.
6.1 Operating modes
You can operate your automatic feeder in rationed mode or ad lib mode (emergency mode).
6.1.1 Rationed mode
In rationed mode , the automatic feeder uses animal identification. You can custom-feed your
calves.
When calves are registered in a group, they receive feed in accordance with the feeding plan
of that group. You can also feed individual calves differently from the group feeding plan. For
example, you can feed extra portions to a single calf.
If the mixer jar is empty and a calf with a feed entitlement enters the feeding station and is iden-
tified, the automatic feeder prepares a feed portion that is specially adjusted for the calf.
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If the calf finishes this portion and is still entitled to feed, a second portion is prepared.
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If the calf is no longer entitled to feed, the feeding station valve is closed after the mixer is
emptied and closed after a drink-out time that you have defined. You define the drink-out
time in coordination with your service technician during initial startup.
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If a calf stops feeding before finishing its portion, the feeder handles the remaining feed as
follows:
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The remaining feed is dispensed to each calf with a feed entitlement. The remaining
feed is used for the calf that actually finishes it.
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Feed that remains in the mixer jar is automatically evacuated after a period that you
define in Device data > Portion > Draining .
Note: This function should not be disabled. Otherwise, the risk of infection could increase.
6.1.2 Ad lib mode (emergency mode)
In ad lib mode , the feeder does not use animal identification. Whenever the mixer jar is empty,
i.e., when the bar electrode is not covered by feed in the mixer jar, the automatic feeder pre-
pares a portion of feed. Since the automatic feeder is not using animal identification, custom