Echotrac MKIII Operator's Manual 4.06
Page 9 of 48
January 21, 2019
2
INSTALLATION
2.1 Echotrac DF 3200 MKIII Recorder Installation
The Recorder is a flexible unit designed for tabletop, rack, or bulkhead mounting. Rack mounting can be
accommodated with the included special hardware, while bulkhead mounting requires ordering additional optional
hardware. Where tabletop mounting is preferred, it is highly recommended that the unit be secured with external
'tie-downs' for rough seas or heavy swells.
2.1.1 Power
The MKIII can be powered by either AC or DC power sources. Switch over between sources is automatic. DC
operation requires an input voltage between 18 and 29 VDC (nominal 24 VDC). Average power consumption is
approximately 75 watts. Frequently, power is derived from two 12 V lead-acid batteries connected in series. Two
"car" batteries (24V configuration), fully charged, and in good condition, can normally power a unit for a full day
without re-charging.
If using an AC source, the unit’s internal switcher accommodates either 110 or 230 VAC (50/60HZ) operation without
operator intervention. Regardless of the input source (AC or DC), the input power should be well regulated and
monitored closely for voltage transients, spikes, etc. Regulated DC supplies should be able to source a short
duration in-rush current spike of approximately 6 amps and an average current load of 3 amps. In the case of
"charger" type (unregulated) supplies, the output should be "floated" across a battery load and not connected solely
to the echo sounder’s DC input. Details of the power cable are given in section 2.3. Should the DC input voltage
polarity be applied in reverse, an audible alarm within the unit will sound regardless of the POWER switch setting. In
the event that the input voltage drops below the minimum threshold, the unit will automatically shut down.
2.1.2 Cabling
All cabling is via the connectors located in the recessed panel at the top rear of the unit. A view of the connector
arrangement is shown in Figure 2.1. Cable details are given in section 2.3. Care should be taken to route cables
using horizontal and vertical runs wherever possible. Avoid paths that run adjacent to transmitter feeder cables or
close to heat radiating elements such as steam pipes. For permanent installations, cables should be clamped at
regular intervals (1m) along their complete lengths.
DC Fuses
DC Power Connector
AC Fuse Compartment
AC Power Conn.
Figure 1: Cabling
2.1.3 Fuses
For DC operation, both the positive and return lines are protected by fast blow standard glass tube (5-Amp/250
Volts) fuses. The two externally accessed fuses are mounted on the rear connector panel. The negative fuse
protects the unit from damage resulting from contact with external peripherals that do not share a common return
path potential. A 5-amp fuse is included in the AC input connector as well.
Summary of Contents for Echotrac MKIII
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