DOCS-010 Manual, SeaBotix Inc. Users, 200 Series – 18 Mar 09 - Rev B - Page 17 of 52
1.8
Calibrating Compass
The LBV is fitted with a magnetic compass that is designed to provide basic heading data. It
should be noted that the sensor is fixed inside the LBV and therefore is susceptible to
varying environmental conditions. If the LBV is pitching up and down, the sensor will lose
accuracy. To ensure that the heading sensor provides the most accurate data, proper
calibration is critical.
Place the LBV either on a flat smooth stable surface or in still water. It is important that,
during calibration, the LBV does not pitch up or down. Remain clear of ferrous materials
and high power electronics such as transformers as they will affect the calibration. Access
the calibration menu as follows:
Press PGRM
Press 5 (Main Menu)
Press 2 (Calibrate)
Press 4 (Compass)
The on
screen display will prompt that you “Rotate the LBV 360º and press Enter”. The key
to the calibration is that the LBV is rotated as slowly as possible. Essentially you want to
have the LBV pointed in all 360 degree increments. This may take several minutes but
ensures the most accurate reading. The slower the LBV rotates (and the greater the
amount of rotations) the more accurate the compass will be. Once complete:
Press ENT
Press PGRM.
NOTE: This calibration is required initially and is then stored into memory. However, should
the LBV be used in a different geographic location, re-calibration may be required. It is good
practice to calibrate the compass prior to each deployment.
Section 2. LBV Controls
The LBV has been designed to be simple and intuitive to operate. A new user should find
that after reading this manual and an hour or so of hands on use, operating the LBV is quite
easy. Using the tips in this manual will help you to become a proficient and confident LBV
operator.
2.1
Operator Control Unit (OCU)
Operation of the LBV is done through the Operator Control Unit (OCU). This section will
help to explain the use of each key and when each should be used. When first learning to
operate the LBV, spend time with the LBV at the surface where you can see how the
commands affect the LBV.
