Sensors & Software pulseEKKO, Product Manual

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Care & Maintenance
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13. Care & Maintenance
13.1 General
When operating the pulseEKKO GPR system in a geophysical field environment, exercise the
normal care afforded to other field instrumentation.
All the equipment is water resistant but will not tolerate total immersion in water. If the
equipment is immersed in water, open the affected components (if possible) and dry it out
before operating. If the equipment is operated in very humid conditions, again open the affected
components (if possible) occasionally to allow the components to dry out.
If the antennas are moved across a surface with puddles of water, water may seep under the
antenna block that the transmitter and receiver attach to and get into the connection with the
brass pins. Detach the transmitter and receiver and leave the antennas in a dry location,
preferably with circulating air, to give them a chance to completely dry out. Corrosion in the
antenna at the base of the brass pins or corrosion in the transmitter/receiver at the base of the
brass sockets caused by water can cause serious damage to your system. Allow them to dry
out after a survey in wet conditions.
The interior of the transmitter and receiver can become very hot very quickly if exposed to
strong, direct sunlight. High temperatures can affect system electronics and may lead to
failures. If a suspected heat failure does occur, stop the system and allow it to cool down before
retrying.
13.2 Cable Care
The cable connectors, fibre optic converters, the transmitter, the receiver, transducers, and the
DVL need to stay clean and free of dust and moisture. Use a brush or air spray to clean dust,
lint, and other foreign particles from these connectors.
When the system is not being used, make sure the connections are protected to prevent dust
and moisture from collecting inside. If the connectors are exposed, cover them with some sort of
dust cap.
Cables are designed to be as tough as they are practical. Careless use of cables, such as using
them to carry loads that they are not designed for, can cause internal damage.
Connectors are weak points in any system. When using this product in rough, dusty, and
outdoor environments, you can minimize potential down time if you take care of the cables and
connectors.
Cables and connectors are not designed to suspend, tow, or otherwise carry the weight of
systems. They are part of the electronic circuit and should be treated accordingly. When not in
use cables and connectors should be placed in their storage box.