ZephIR user manual QP1009-582 v2
© Natural Power 2008
10
th
June 2008
Page 35
General Information
Mechanical Infrastructure
ZephIR comprises three core elements, an Optics Pod, an
Electronics Pod and a Battery Pod. Each pod is transported
separately and integrated on site. In addition to these core
elements, a fluid container and pump assembly, an external
power supply, a bespoke tripod arrangement, and an
integrated mast and met station complete the system. The
unit is also environmentally sealed with silicone seals on the
lid and base of each Pod and also all external components
and connections are IP 67 rated.
Electrical and Communications Infrastructure
Primary power for the system is met via a dual-voltage (110
- 240V a.c.) power input.
Alternatively, a 28V d.c. power supply may be used (not
supplied). Each ZephIR system incorporates a backup
battery unit within the battery pod that provides for a
nominal 6-hour operation in the event of a primary system
power failure.
ZephIR data is stored on a 4 GB compact flash card, which
provides for 3 days of RAW data and in excess of one year of
wind data. Wind data is transmitted over the integral GSM
communications provided via the met mast and download
is recommended on at least a weekly basis (The data will
get over written on a 3 day cycle for the RAW data and 365
day cycle for the wind data). In addition to the wireless
communication interface, a TCP/IP Ethernet connection is
provided for accessing the ZephIR. There is also an RS232
communication port for connection of customer supplied
equipment such as a GPS unit.
In the interests of data security, the ZephIR system requires
the insertion of a user supplied SIM card.
User Interface
Whether connected directly to the ZephIR system or via
the GSM communications, the user interface is standard
and enables both configuration of the equipment and the
download of wind data from the deployed unit. All units
have user configured password protection to ensure that
data is secure.
ZephIR data is quickly and easily exported for analysis in
Microsoft Excel or other compatible software systems that
can accept a CSV data format.
Health and Safety
The ZephIR system has been designed and built to
undertake wind-speed measurements in the anticipated
operational environments in a safe and reliable manner as
far as reasonably practical. However, as with all equipment,
there are potential hazards which must be considered in
any risk assessment undertaken before deployment and
appropriate steps taken to minimise the risk of injury or
equipment failure. See Part E, Health and Safety for more
details.
