Kilo User Manual Version 3.0
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Testing the Kilo
Before testing
The following should be confirmed ahead of testing:
1.
The Kilo must be confirmed activated on the Iridium network to ensure that any messages
transmitted are able to be received, and directed to send messages to the intended
destinations.
2.
Each battery used during the test should be examined with a voltmeter to ensure none of
the cells are defective or discharged. Individual cells with a voltage measuring less than
1.5 V should not be used, but new batteries should be used during deployments.
3.
Xeos recommends the Energizer EN91 AA alkaline battery, or the Energizer L91 lithium
Battery.
Power-up and Batteries
1.
Insert the batteries into the device in the proper orientation.
2.
Add the battery spring board to the battery stack, and screw in
the Kilo’s endcap. The device will immediately turn on. Ensure at
this point that both the green and red LEDs have the ability to
illuminate; they will do so on power-up.
If at this point the red LED continuously flashes, and/or beeping
is heard, a self-test failure has occurred. Recheck the batteries
and their orientation first, and if this persists, contact Xeos.
3.
Once all LED action has ceased, use a magnet to find the magnetic on/off switch on the
device (the green LED will illuminate on detection). Use this opportunity to turn the device
off by swiping the magnet repeatedly at this location (OFF is indicated by a solid RED LED)
to confirm proper operation of the magnetic switch. Use the same method to turn the
device on (ON is indicated by a solid GREEN LED).
Transmission
1.
Place the device upright in a location outside that has as much of the sky visible as
possible; buildings and other tall objects can impede a beacon’s ability to transmit.
2.
The following messages are to be expected from the Kilo after turning on within five
minutes:
a.
A power-up message displaying the firmware version and serial number
b.
A GPS Position, the SNR strength of which should consistently be greater than or
equal to 38.
3.
The device will then send one GPS message every 10 minutes until its start-up period has
expired (a period of one hour). The SNR value for each GPS position should be a value no
less than 38.
After this point, transmission intervals are tied to the rates laid out by the $settiming command.
