Chapter 5 ______________________________________________________________ Maintenance
CHAPTER 5
MAINTENANCE
This chapter provides information on servicing operations.
Avoiding Corrosion
Sensitive parts of the antenna are protected by the plastic dome and
are thus not prone to mechanical damage. The cover also protects the
parts from rain and openings at its base allow condensed water to drip
off. Nevertheless, from time to time it is advisable to inspect for
possible corrosion damage and ensure that the connectors are in good
condition.
Disassembling the Antenna
When disassembling the antenna, the rim bolts are loosened first. (See
drawing at the end of this manual). The cover can then be removed.
The antenna elements and the cross dipole are accessible. If any of the
elements is damaged, it is replaced.
At the lower part of the antenna there is a service hatch, through
which the cables and connectors are accessible. For some service
operations, such as those involving the RBD121 Antenna Amplifier
and Switch, the dome must be removed and the antenna reflector plate
tilted upwards.
In case any of the antenna elements seems to be insensitive, the most
common reason is a loose cable connector or a malfunction in the
antenna switching unit.
VAISALA _______________________________________________________________________ 15