Instruction Manual
VLB-67 LED Beacon
© Vega Industries Ltd, July 2014
VLB-67 LED Beacon
Page 9 of 52
VLB-67 V1.0.17
3.2
Solar Body Breather Vent
The solar body has been fitted with a membrane vent to allow pressure equalization, and to
release any hydrogen gas that may build up from the battery. The membrane vent is located at the
top of the body behind one of the solar panels. The vent should not be tampered with as any
damage may cause water to enter the battery compartment.
3.3
Sealing
The beacon is sealed against the ingress of moisture, dust, insects and other environmental
contaminants. Because the beacon does not need to be opened for programming, these seals can
remain undisturbed for extended periods. If the power pack is opened for inspection or to change
the battery, do not let any water accumulate in the battery compartment.
4.0
Electrical
4.1
Electrical Connections
There are four connectors at the bottom of the VLB67
lantern. These are used to connect the battery/power
supply, solar panels, data port, sync wire, and monitor
wire. What connectors are used on any VLB-67 Beacon
will depend on the options ordered.
There should be no need for the user to access these
connections other than when a battery is being replaced
on the self-contained units.
Details of the electrical connections are provided in
Appendix F
5.0
Battery Charging on VLB-67 SS and LS Beacons
The solar charger in the VLB-67 Beacon monitors the temperature and the voltage and will charge
the batteries when the voltage level at the solar panels exceeds the voltage of the battery.
Protection is provided to prevent the overcharging of the battery. Charging will stop at minus 20
degrees Celsius in order to protect the battery from damage. The beacon will continue to draw
power from the battery at temperatures below minus 20 degrees Celsius.
The solar charger is designed for Lead Acid batteries with GEL construction. The battery on the
VLB-67 has been specifically designed for the mounting configuration used in the VLB-67. If a
replacement battery is required please obtain the correct b
attery from Vega or one of Vega’s
Distributors. Other batteries may cause damage to the beacon
SECTION 2 SETTING UP AND USING THE VLB-67 BEACON
1.0
Getting Started
x
If using a self-contained model check there is sufficient solar energy at the location to
support the range and flash Character. See Appendix E. Alternatively use the selector
program on the Vega website
www.vega.co.nz
under “Calculators”
x
For Self-
Contained models change the operating mode from “Storage” to “Normal”
x
Program the Beacon (Section 4).
x
Fit the Bird Deterrents (Clause 7)
x
Install the VLB-67 LED Marine Beacon (Clause 7)
x
Check the beacon is working (Section 3)
