VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual
28 July
2018
5
2.2
Testing
Before deploying the ASCENT-AR, it is wise to test it with the VR100-200 receiver to verify that it is
operating properly. This test also creates a VRL file containing all the configuration information for this
release – handy to keep as a record of the configuration.
Tests can, and should, be done in both air and water.
2.2.1
In-Air Test
1.
Communicate using the transponding hydrophone and VR100-
200 (details about using the VR100-200 are found in the VR100
related user manuals).
a.
Connect the transponding hydrophone to the
hydrophone connector on the VR100-200
b.
Place the caged end of the hydrophone within 15
cm (6”) of the hydrophone on the ASCENT-AR.
c.
Turn on the VR100-200.
d.
Select “Transpond” in the main screen.
e.
Select “Scan” and wait for the ASCENT-AR
serial number to appear on the screen.
f.
Select the ASCENT-AR.
g.
Select “Status…” from the menu (press “1” on
keypad).
h.
Select “Get Range” (press “1” on keypad). This
establishes communication between the
ASCENT-AR and the VR100-200 and reduces the “talk time” necessary to communicate.
i.
Press the “MENU” button twice to move back to the Transponding menu.
j.
Select “Acoustic Release” (#3)
k.
Select “Status” to view the ASCENT-AR status. It should report “ready” at this stage. Press
MENU to go back to the menu.
l.
Select “Activate” and enter the 5-digit activation code when prompted. Select the right
selection button (“Activate”) again.
m.
Wait while the mooring lug is ejected from the release;
status is reported as “Opening” during this phase.
Reset the mooring lug for another acoustic release (see section 4.4
Perform air tests away from
electrical noise sources such
as motors, PC screens, or
fluorescent lights.
Find more transponding features in the
VR100 user manual addendum.
ASCENT:000001 170m
Enter the code:
00000
Activate
