ATS Pinger Dish IV User Guide
R-11-20A
2
parameters can't be inadvertently changed by an end user whose task is only to activate tags and
verify their proper operation just prior to deployment.
The second mode of operation requires that the Pinger Dish be connected to a computer (via a
serial cable or USB to serial converter). This allows a JSATS tag
’s
configuration values to be
modified (described in section 5). Most users will never need to use this second mode.
3.
Placing a Tag in the Pinger Dish
ATS’ New Pinger Dishes contain a ‘gel
-
cup’ which
utilizes an elastic compound that propagates
the acoustic wave signals more efficiently between the transducers of the acoustic tag and the
Pinger Dish
’s input sensor
. This design has the advantage of not requiring any water; only a
physical connection is required. Two different methods for positioning the tag are shown below.
Method 1:
Hold the tag by the battery end and gently press the transducer end
of the tag lightly against the gel directly over the center of the
large, silver transducer in the gel. Very little pressure is needed to
make the physical connection. While holding the tag in this
position, use the RS232 port or the activation switch to send
commands.
Pros: This method requires no water at all.
Cons: Holding the tag while communicating may seem a bit
awkward and could become arduous if large groups of tags are
done this way.
Method 2:
Add only enough water to create a physical connection between
the transducer of the acoustic tag and the surface of the elastic. A
few drops or small “puddle” is sufficient. Place the tag so that its
transducer end is over the center of the Pinger Dish transducer.
The cylinder of the tag transducer should be perpendicular to the
circumference of the Pinger Dish Transducer (see diagram below).
This makes for better communication. Use the RS232 port or the
activation switch to send commands to the tag.
