
April
2018
Pathfinder DVL Guide
Page 10
EAR-Controlled Technology Subject to Restrictions Contained on the Cover Page.
Power Overview
The Pathfinder requires a DC supply between 10.7 to 36 VDC. Either an external DC power supply or bat-
tery can provide this power. The power supply should be able to source at least two Amps for a bench test
setup (no pinging).
Power on Cycle
The power supply must be able to handle the inrush current as well. Inrush current is the current required
to fully charge up the capacitors when power is applied to the Pathfinder.
The capacitors provide a store of
energy for use during transmit.
The inrush current is as much as four amps if plugged in after the DVL
Transmit Cap is fully discharged.
The Pathfinder will draw this amperage until its capacitors are fully
charged (less than 200ms).
If the power supply limits the current or the power drop on the cable is significant, then the
power on cycle will fail or the system will reset during pinging. Therefore, TRDI recommends
a 1.5 to 2 Amp power supply to cover all performance cases. For more information, see
If the Power is put in then removed within a very short time (few secs) and then applied again,
then the Inrush limiter will not be able to limit the current pulled from the DVL which would
result in a higher than 4Amps Inrush current spike.
Cables and Connector Protective Cap
The underwater cables connector protective cap is a molded wet-mate-able connector. The end-cap con-
nectors are a factory-installed item. TRDI does not recommend removing it for any routine maintenance.
The connector protective cap should be installed any time the cable is removed. Use the
protective connector cap when the DVL is in storage or is being handled.
Prior to each connection:
1. Lubricate mating surfaces with 3M Silicone Spray or equivalent; DO NOT grease!
Use ONLY
silicone based lubricants.
DO NOT
use petroleum based lubricants.
To connect the cable:
1. Check all pins for signs of damage (broken or bent pins or corrosion).
2. The Pathfinder cable connector must be lubricated before each connection.
3. Push the cable straight onto the connector ensuring the pins are properly aligned. While keeping a
slight inward pressure on the cable connector and ensuring that the connector is straight, thread
the locking sleeve onto the receptacle to complete the connection.
Do NOT use any tools to tighten the locking sleeve. It should only be “finger tight”.