AVIAN RADAR SYSTEMS
Transcript of AVIAN RADAR SYSTEMS
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1902 Wilson Avenue Panama City, Florida 32405 USA
T 850.763.7200 F 850.763.0920 www.DeTect -inc.com
Aircraft Birds trike Avoidance Radars- Avian Radar Systems - Security Radar Systems- Bird Control Systems - Radar Wind Pro f ilers
November 2, 2010
Kevin McDowell Water Systems Engineer SRBU- N. Piceance Encana Oil & Gas (USA) Inc. 370 17th Street, Suite 1700 Denver, CO 80202
(0) 720.876.5836 M) 303.968.9658 (F) 720.876.6836 (E) Kevin [email protected]
RE: MERLIN detect & deter Bird Control Radar System Letter of Operational Status Encana Middle Fork Facility near Parachute, CO
Dear Mr. McDowell:
Merlin~" AVIAN RADAR SYS TEMS
via e-mail, 2 pages total
Pursuant to your request, please find below a summary of the operational status of MERLIN detect & deter Bird Control Radar System ("MERLIN" or "the system") installed and operating at the Encana Middle Fork Facility near Parachute, Colorado. The MERLIN system is an automated bird control system that uses the same advanced, proven military-grade bird radar technology DeTect developed for the US Air Force and NASA to reliably detect and track birds at extended ranges, monitor user-defined control zones, and, automatically activate bird deterrent devices to effectively and humanely harass and prevent birds from entering restricted areas such as industrial facility waste impoundments (see http://www.detect-inc.com/other.html for additional information).
1. Under contract to Encana, DeTect designed and manufactured the Middle Fork MERLIN system and supervised the installation at the Middle Fork radar facility in 2009.
2. The system was installed and has been operated since startup in accordance with DeTect's specifications and recommendations.
3. The unit is operating as designed and is monitored by DeTect remotely on a daily basis. DeTect also makes periodic site visits to the sit~ to verify operational status and system efficacy.
4. To DeTect's knowledge, no migratory bird takes have occurred or been reported at the facility since the installation of the system.
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Encana Oil & Gas (USA) Inc. MERLIN detect & deter Bird Control Radar at Encana Middle Fork Facility November 2, 2010
DeTect Inc. )t\\IL_ l1chxhon lcctmolcxJ,CS ~Jr-
If you have any questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at your convenience.
Sincerely,
DeTect, Inc.
~~ Gary W. Andrews General Manager & CEO
Cc: Jared Quillen Doug McElwain Edward Zakrajsek
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Merlin~n, aefftet & aeter Sird Control Radar
1902 Wi!SOrl Avo. Panama City. Fl32405 Ph. 850.763.7200 Fx. 850.763.0920
REVISIONS
lONE ''" DESCRIPTION 01\TE 1\PPROVED
NIA 2A System drawing revisions for Encana Oil & Gas 12/2612008 G. Andrews
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Plan View
OAAWN
Dustin Kelly
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Opposite Pond ~ /Pond Side
Right Side Elevation
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Client: Encana Oil & Gas USA Inc.
Project: Middle Fork Pond Project (AFE#08113267)
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LRAD-1 OOOX™ Operations Manual
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Systel1l Deployl1lent and IVJaint~nance
Copyright~ 2007 American Technology Corporation
-- -- ------------------- ---1 Table of Contents
Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................................ 1
Important Safety Precautions .......................................................................................................................... I
System Description ........................................................................................................................................ 2
System Modules .......................................................................................................................................... 2
Head Unit .................................................................................................................................................... 2
Amplifier Pack ............................................................................................................................................ 4
System Setup .................................................................................................................................................. 5
Operation- Hailing and Warning .................................................................................................................. 7
Operation- Prerecorded Messages ............................................................................................................... 9
Care and Maintenance ................................................................................................................................. 10
Troubleshooting and Repairs ....................................................................................................................... 12
Spare Parts/Support ..................................................................................................................................... 15
Specifications ............................................................................................................................................... 17
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' Important Safety Precautions The LRAD-1 OOOX is capable of producing sound pressure leve ls that have the potential to cause temporary or permanent hearing damage. Always follow the safety precautions described in this manual as we ll as on the uni t's interfaces.
The following conventions apply in this manual. Please note the warnings and take ade quate measures to ensure safe operation of the unit.
Important Safety Instructions.
Risk of electric shock.
n Hearing Protection Required.
1. Read these instructions .
2. Keep these instructions in a place known to and accessible by the potential operators of the LRADlOOOX.
3. Heed all warnings contained in this document.
) 4. Follow all instructions detailed in this document.
5 . Install in accordance with the instructions contained in this document.
6 . Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including some electronics) that produce heat.
7. Do not connect or disconnect any cables to the unit while the primary circuit is live unless the area is known to be non-hazardous.
8. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong.
9. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outle t, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outle t.
10. Protect the power cord from being tread upon, excessively bent, creased, or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where the cable assemblies connect to the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
13. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the LRAD-lOOOX has been noticeably or substantially damaged in any way, including cord or plug damage, seriously
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dente d or b reached housings, or if liquid has penetrated the interior of the device, or any accessorie s .
14. The LRAD-1 OOOX power cor d shall be connecte d to a main socket outle t with a protective ground connection.
15. Do not block air flow through the fans on the e lectronics module .
16. Do not open in hazardous locations or areas .
System Description The LRAD-lOOOX consists of two p rincipal modules and ancillary equipme nt such as input devices, interface cables , and mounts.
System Modules
The two main modules are the He ad Unit and the Amplifier Pack.
Head Unit The Head Unit houses ATC's highly directional acoustic drivers. This module emits high powered, directional acoustic energy at a target or targets. It is fitted with mounting points for the attachment of a yoke which allows for manual adjustment of azimuth and elevation orientations when used in conjunction with an approved mounting device or stand, such as ATC's tripod or ship rail mount. The Head Unit can be aimed by an operator using the included removable rear handles.
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Removable handles.
!Figure 1: LRAD-1 OOOX Head Uniij
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Alignment sights (2X)
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The Amplifie r Pack houses ATC's amplifie r modules , p ower supply, and control inte rfaces. This module is containe d in a wa terproof case and conta ins a ll interfaces and controls need e d to transmit inte lligib le and
clea rly discernible communications and warning signa ls through the Head Unit.
Cooling Fans _ _ _
Signal Out to
Head Unit ----r::?r;\:!J!!~S~t~iill~;:~
Volume Control
Limit Switch
(Figure 2: LRAD-lOOOX Amplifier Pack Interfaces!
Hour M eter
Main Power
Swi tch
A/C Power Input
MP3 Player Input
The Head Unit can be deployed on mounts fitted with a l-5/8" socket, such as ATC's rugged tripod or
stainless steel ship-rail mount.
The LRAD-lOOOX ships with a handheld microphone and a digital recording/ playback device for live speech corrununications and playback of pre-recorded message s and warning tones .
A 100 foot cab le connects the Head Unit to the Amplifie r Module and is include d with the unit. A 50 foo t AC power cord also ships with the unit. Contact your ATC r epresentative to re quest custom cable lengths .
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System Setup Ins tall handles in the rear of the Head Unit b y slid ing in to the keyhole rece ptacles. Lock the handles in p lace by turning the locking spring p in.
Install Yoke into tripod or ship-rail mount receptacle. Install unit in Yoke as shown in the following figures.
& WARNING: The LRAD- lO~OX weighs approximately 95lbs. This is a two-man lift.
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Tighten tilt-lock knobs.
& WARNING: Do not hot p lug the input/output connections, including the MIC, the MP3 and the Speaker Out connections.
1. Connect the microphone and/or MP3 player connections.
2. Connect the Speaker out cable to the Amplifier pack and the Head Unit.
3. Connect AC Power Input connector to Amplifie r pack.
4. & WARNING: Ensure the volume control is a t the lowest setting before powering up the unit.
n Hearing protection must b e worn when operating the unit. Personnel in the immediate vicinity of the Head Unit must wear hearing pro tec tion such as foam earplugs.
Power on the unit. The Power LED will illuminate a green light when the unit is ready for operation.
To generate a test signal, use the handheld microphone or MP3 player. Carefully adjust the volume control until the desired volume level is attained.
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~ Operation - Hailing and ~~r-n-in~ -
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n HEARING PROTECTION REQUIRED: Personnel operating the LRAD- lOOOX shall , at a minimum, wear single earplug style hearing protection. The LRAD-1 OOOX is capable of acous tic
sound pressure levels in excess of OSHA noise hazard levels. As with any high-energy acoustic device, proper usage will minimize r isk of hearing loss to the operator and personne l in its imme diate vicinity.
n PROTECTION OF NEARBY PERSONNEL: Qualified LRAD-lOOOX operators must ensure the device is positioned, aimed and operated in a manner so as to avoid exposing nearby personnel and bystanders to excessive sound pressure levels. The following guidelines are to be used in conjunction with sound judgment:
• Never operate LRAD-lOOOX at maximum power where personnel may be within 75 meters or where an acoustically reflective object, e .g. building, wall, or bulkhead, is locate d such that the reflected distance to personnel is less than 75 meters.
• Never point LRAD-lOOOX directly at personnel in the immediate vicinity of operating position.
• Be advised that the output power of the warning tone is slightly higher than voice levels.
Many factors must be considered when positioning the LRAD-lOOOX for hailing and warning operations. The LRAD-lOOOXX Operations Zones shown in Figure 3 must always be taken into account to ensure that personnel are not exposed to excessive sound pressure levels.
Factors to consider when placing the LRAD-lOOOX include, but are not limited to, the following:
All long-range communication devices should have an unobstructed transmission path to the anticipated areas in which it will be aimed. Even small mast antennas may reflect some sound energy decreasing the effectiveness of the unit as we ll as increasing reflected noise levels for the operator and others nearby.
Placement should be chosen so as to minimize or avoid transmission over decks or balconies where personnel may be located.
Shipboard operations should p lace the LRAD- lOOOX as close to the ship 's sides, bow, or stern as possib le.
When choosing a placement area to maximize unobstructed transmission path(s) , care must be taken to ensure the LRAD-lOOOX does not collide with any structures or e quipment, nor encroach on personnel passageways when the unit is pivoted and manipulated through its full range of motion.
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FRONT
BACK
L = LIMITED POWER M = MAXIMUM POWER
DO NOT ENTER WITHIN 15 METERS DURING CONTINUOUS OPERATION
DO NOT ENTER WITHIN 75 METERS DURING CONTINUOUS OPERATION
DO NO T ENTER DURING CONTINUOUS O PERATION WITHOUT HEARING PROTECTION'
DO NOT ENTER DURING CONTINUOUS OPERATION WITHOUT HEARING PROTECTION'
SAFE FOR CONTINUOUS OPERATION
SAFE FOR CONTINUOUS OPERATION WITH HEARING PROTECTIO N'
' NOTE; HEARING PROTECTION MUST PROVIDE GREATER THAN 20 dB OF NOISE REDUCTION. D ISPOSABLE SOFT FOAM EARPLUGS MAY BE USED AS HEARING PROTECTION.
!Figure 3: LRAD-lOOOX Safety Diagranll
The LRAD-lOOOX can be freely rotated to the left and right by loosening the T-handle at the base of the mount and using the large handles on the back of the unit. Re-tightening the T-handle locks the device in the new position. To pivot the LRAD-lOOOX up and down, loosen both of the handles on the sides of the unit just enough to b e able to rotate the device , but maintaining a small amount of friction. This enables the user to maintain easy control of the vertical movement.
The LRAD-lOOOX can be accurately aimed a t the ve hicle or personnel the operator is a ttempting to communicate with using one of the two attached visual sighting devices . The sites are loca te d on the left and right sides of the LRAD-lOOOXX at approximately the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions. The opera tor simply looks through the hole on the sight and aligns the target in the cross hairs.
NOTE: The LRAD- 1000 audio transmission is very directional. It may b e necessary to make aiming corrections for strong crosswinds when communicating over long distances . It may also b e necessary to align the sights using space r washers to ensure the LRAD is b e ing aimed accurately .
{) & WARNING: Hearing Protection: The LRAD-lOOOX sound projection is very directional. Operators standing behind the unit hear only a small fraction of the sound energy being transmitted. This can make the operator think the LRAD- lOOOX is not producing the required output. OPERATORS SHOULD NOT ATTEMPT TO LISTEN TO THE OUTPUT FROM THE FRONT OF THE DEVICE! HEARING DAMAGE MAY RESULT FROM SUCH ACTION.
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!J'igure 4: Do not attempt to listen to the output side of the unit.l
Operation - Prerecorded Messages American Technology Corporation recommends the use of prerecorded messages whenever possible. Prerecording ensures that messages are appropriately worded and clearly broadcasted to maximize effective communication.
The LRAD-lOOOX is supplied with a case hardened MP3 player. This MP3 player allows ope rators to utilize approved prerecorded messages in the field. Some operators have found it useful to record a message in several different languages to meet their communication needs. The MP3 player is preloaded with a number of warning and test messages that may be freely used/deleted as needed.
The MP3 player output cord is connected to the back of the LRAD-1000X through the MP3 INPUT port. Power is provided to the MP3 player from the LRAD-1 OOOX.
The MP3 player has two ports to either side of the output cable. One is labe led USB and is use d with the supplied USB cable to download prerecorded audio files. The other jack is labele d Audio Inp ut. It allows another accessory device such as the Phraselator to be connected through the MP3 player.
Note: There are 2 audio input jacks on the LRAD-1 OOOX, one labeled MP3 INPUT and the other labeled MIC INPUT. Neither input has priority over the other. If broadcasting a recorded message through the MP3 INPUT port and the operator prefers to use the microphone, the MP3 player should first be put into the STOP mode. Failure to do so
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will broadcast both the MP3 message and the spoken message through the LRAD- lOOOX at the same time.
Audio File Playback:
l. Stop inputs from othe r audio input devices
2. Select the desired track with the FF or REW buttons.
3. Press PLAY to p lay the message.
4. The message will automatically repeat until the STOP button is depressed.
Using the Tone Generator:
& wARNING: The Tone Generator produces the loudest output from the LRAD- lOOOX. Q ualified personnel must ensure the area in front of the LRAD-lOOOX is clear for 75 meters in front of the device before activating the tone in MAXIMUM mode and 15 meters in LIMITED mode.
The MP3 Player has a tone generator located on the side. Press once for activation; press again for deactivation. The tone generator produces intense, pulsating warning tones.
ATC recommends using the tone in 2-5 second bursts for maximum effectiveness when hailing a subject. The tone will override the recorded voice transmission.
Other MP3 Player Functions:
The LRAD MP3 Player features a brightnes level button that will cycle the button and LCD brightness through 3 levels, including off. This is useful in compensating for glare and to avoid light signature when necessary.
Please see the LRAD MP3 Player Operating Manual for other functions and features of the MP3 player.
Care and Maintenance The LRAD-lOOOX is an all-weather hailing and warning device that requires minimal mainte nance. As with any equipment, proper care and maintenance will ensure a long and useful life.
Clean LRAD- lOOOX and inspect for wear or other damage daily. Ensure that all fastening hardware is kept tight and all electrical connections secure and damage-free . Fasteners or other hardware or equipment that becomes loose may represent a serious hazard to p ersonnel as well as the LRAD- lOOOX and nearby e quipment.
Use non-flammable cleaning solutions with clean rags to wipe the exterior surfaces of the LRAD- lOOOX. The LRAD- lOOOX Head Unit can be sprayed down with fresh water to remove salt and dust buildup. The status LED window can be cleaned with soap and water. For corrosion control in sea applications, apply anti-corrosion lubricant to the metal connectors on the LRAD device.
Do not spray the LRAD- lOOOX front panel with pressurized liquid or air. Do not spray or otherwise introduce caustic solutions to the front grille. Doing so will increase the risk of damaging the emitters as
well as other electronics contained within the unit. .. ..... _ I -----------------------------------------1~0------------------------------------~
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~~e gnlle becomes-~bstructed w1th dust,d1rt, dned mud, or sand, attempt vacuum to 1t -outof ~he front
gnlle cloth, takmg care not to np or tear the front surface. An alternat1ve method for the held 1s to t1p the
LRAD-1 OOOX such that the grille is facing down, with the palm of ones hand gently tap the front grille or
side of the unit. Soft-bristled brushes can be used as well, again, use care to avoid damaging the device.
The grille on the head unit can be removed periodically by unfastening the screws around the front bezel
and cleaned using pressurized air and/or water. This operation will ensure maximum output is maintained
in the unit.
Spare parts are available from ATC and field repairs of most potential failures can be performed as follows.
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Troubleshooting and Repairs
Problem: Low output due to failed transducer.
Description: The failure of one or two transducers may not be noticeable to a listener. A handheld dB meter can be held within two or three inche s of each of the transducers. Playing a test tone at a very low volume level can be used to find a faulty transducer.
To replace a transducer, perform the following steps.
1. Remove the front grill by removing the twenty four screws and washers around the front bezel and the six screws and washers in the middle of the screen ..
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2. Remove the cap from the front of the driver bulle t using a 7/64" Allen Wrench.
3. Disconnect the driver connection, which is located inside the driver bullet.
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4. With the drivers facing up, remove the four screw s from the b ack of the driver using a 5/32" Allen Wrench , and lift the d river out of the uni t.
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5. Install replacement driver, reconnect driver cable, replace driver bulle t cap, and replace front grille.
Total e stimated rep air time : 25 minutes.
Problem: Faulty amplifier - excessive noise , fault light, clipping light permanently illuminated, insufficient output.
Description: A faulty amplifier can develop various symptoms. An amplifier troubleshooting guide is available from ATC.
To replace a faulty amplifier, perform the following steps.
1. Ensure the Amplifier Pack is powered down and all connectors are disconnected.
2. Remove the 6 screws around the top plate of the Amplifier Pack.
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3. Lift the top plate out of the case and lay it face down on a work surface .
4. Disconnect all cables from the faulty amplifier and remove the four screws holding the amplifier module into position.
5 . Mount replacement amplifier module on electronics plate and reapply all connections.
6. Replace e lectronics plate in case.
Total estimated repair time: 26 minutes.
Spare Parts/ Support The following spare parts are available from ATC for field or depot level repairs and replacements.
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ATC Part No. Description
102984-00 Handheld Microphone 103514-00 Hardened MP3 Player Kit
104165-01 Amplifier Module -104416-00 Acoustic Driver Unit -104584-00 Head Unit Grill Kit
TBD 100 ft. Speaker Cable
TBD 300 ft. Speaker Cable 101 562-01 12 ft. Power Cord
101562-02 50 ft . Power Cord
103688-01 Power supply
104572-00 Fan kit
104417-01 Input Power Connector
104418-01 MIC Input Connector
104418-00 MP3 Input Connector 104419-02 Speaker Out/Speaker In
Connector
Contact information for help and technical support is listed below.
AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 15378 AVENUE OF SCIENCE, SUITE 100
SAN DIEGO, CA 92128
858-676-0574 [email protected]
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Specifications LRAD-1 OOOX Technical Specifications
Emitte r Weight 85 lbs (without accessories)
Emitte r Dimensions See Figure 1 (Page 2)
Emitter Construction Molded Low Smoke Composite
Electronics Module Dimension 21.2" X 16" X 8 .3"
Electronics Housing Watertight Molded Case
Maximum SPL 152 dB@ l Meter
Power Consumption Normal Powe r Consumption 300 Watts
Peak Power Consumption 900 Watts
Acoustic "Beam" Width +I- 15° @ l kHz -3dB
Safety MIL-STD-1474D
Electromagnetic Compatibility FCC Class A radiated and conducted emissions
Environmental
Random Vibration MIL-STD-810F, Method 514-4, Wheeled Vehicles
Shipboard Vibration MIL-STD-167 -1A
Shipboard Shock MIL-S-910D, Class I, Shockgrade B
SRS Shock MIL-STD-810F, Method 516.5, Procedure 1 (Functional Shock)
High/ Low Te mp Operational MIL-STD-81 0F, Method 501.4 & 502.4, Procedure 2, -33° to 71° C
Rain MIL-STD-810F, Me thod 506.4, Procedure 2, Blowing Rain
Operating Humidity MIL-STD-810F, Method 507.4
Salt Fog MIL-STD-810F, Method 509.4
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Merlin Detect & Deter Encana Middle Fork Pond
System Overview
1 September 2009 Detect, Inc.
The Merlin system primarily consists of a 30-kW, horizontal-scanning, marine radar connected to three computers. The radar interface computer (RIC) captures the radar data into a computerized format. The Merlin Processor Computer analyzes the data in real-time to detect birds and initiates sound files if birds are detected within the guard zone over the Middle Fork pond. Finally, a Merlin Remote Display Computer is located in the Completions Bull Pen at the Main Office to observe the system. Additional components include a computer keyboard, video monitor, and mouse (KVM), a network switch to network the two computers, and battery backup power (UPS). The components in the radar cabinet are described first.
UPS
Turn on the UPS. Allow it to self check and stabilize.
All of the computer and radar components in the radar cabinet are powered through the UPS. Brown outs or short duration black outs will not directly affect the system operation. The air conditioner is not operated on backup power.
Additionally, the AC is run on a different electrical circuit than the radar and computers to eliminate the chance of spikes caused by the compressor cycle.
Also a 5 (five) minute Shut-down controller is installed. If power is lost for 5 minutes the controller shuts down the UPS so that the system is completely powered down.
KVM
The KVM console allows one keyboard, video monitor and mouse to be shared between the two computers. Select the 1 button to view the Radar Interface Computer- A. Select the 2 button to view the Merlin Processor Computer- C. Only switch 1 and 2 are used on this 8-port switch.
When the KVM starts for the first time it requires a password to begin operating. The user name is 00000000 and the password is 00000000 (by default). On occasion the number lock is engaged on start up. If you cannot get the zeros to enter on the screen, then press the Fn (function) button and then tap the zero button.
Radar
1. The radar is controlled by software on the A computer. Only 1 check box is used in the software interface called Sharpeye controller. This is one of two check boxes toward the bottom. One is a box for "High Power" and the other is titled "Run"
2. Check that the 220V transformer is switched "ON" and that the radar processor key is in the "ON" position. These units are located to the right hand side of the cabinet facing the pond. The transformer sits on a shelf at the top and the radar processor sits below it.
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3. The Sharpeye software should open automatically. After making sure that the transformer and radar processor are on and that the radar antenna is clear of obstructions, check the box "Run". Leave the High Power box unchecked.
4. The antenna will begin rotating.
5. To shut down the radar
• Uncheck the "Run" button to return the radar to Standby Mode • The antenna will stop rotating • Turn the key switch on the radar processor to "OFF" and switch the transformer
to "OFF" to completely power down radar
Radar Interface Computer - A
The Radar Interface Computer (RIC) is connected to the radar by a signal cable. This computer acquires the radar data and formats them for processing by the Merlin software. This computer is also labeled with its network name A (10.228.19.90). This computer starts automatically when the UPS is powered on.
Select the A computer on the KVM switch. The SeaScan Server program will start automatically. It can also be started by double-clicking its icon on the desktop. The SeaScan Server program simply has to be running. It requires no other controls.
Merlin Processor Computer
The Merlin Processor Computer- C runs 2 programs. The Merlin Server program processes the radar data acquired by the RIC to detect birds. The Merlin Haze program monitors those birds and if they are observed flying over the guard zone a sound file is played in response.
Switch the KVM to 2 to view the C computer. Wait for Windows to boot up completely.
The Merlin Server program should appear automatically; if it does not simply start the program by double-clicking its icon on the desktop. Once opened, notice the 4 dot icons across the top of the Merlin Server window. There must be 4 green dots before the Merlin Data Server can be started. If one or more are red, this indicates a problem, which must be corrected before continuing. For instance, if the "RCI" and "Radar" dots are red, then the SeaScan Server may not be started on the A computer, so no radar data are available for processing.
When the Merlin Server program is started and shows 4 green dots, click File- Start to start the program. After a moment the status lines in the Merlin Server table change from red to yellow, turn On, and begin displaying much useful, though cryptic information. The Merlin Server does all the hard work of processing the radar data. The Merlin Server is not very exciting to watch.
To stop Merlin Server, click File- Stop. To shut it down, click File- End.
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The Merlin Server program uses much of the computer's resources. As such it may make the computer slow to respond to commands (mouse clicks). Allow a bit of patience on the C computer when the Merlin Server is running.
The Merlin Haze program plots the bird locations in relation to the guard zone and initiates the sound response as needed. The program should load automatically but if it does not the start the Merlin Haze program by double-clicking the icon on the desktop. As long as the Merlin Server program is running properly, the Merlin Haze program simply has to be opened to function properly. If Merlin Server is not operational "Radar Offline" will show in the center of the screen.
The Merlin Display program is not required to be running at the radar cabinet, but it may be started to view the bird tracks in a more user friendly display than is given by Merlin Haze. Merlin Display can be started by double-clicking its icon on the desktop. The Merlin Display shows the bird tracks overlaid on an aerial photo of the site and includes a depiction of the guard zone. Merlin Display will only function if Merlin Processor is operating properly. If Merlin Server is not operational "Radar Offline" will show in the center of the screen. The Merlin Display is also run on the Remote Display Computer in the Completions Bull Pen.
LRAD Amplifier
The LRAD's amplifier is inside the cabinet on the left hand side. It has a breaker and On/Off switch on the face. To stop sounds from playing when working in and around the Radar simply switch the amplifier to OFF. Turn the amplifier back ON when ready to resume deterrent sounds.
LRAD Sound Controller
The LRAD sound controller is located below the LRAD amplifier. It contains an Acromag which is a digital switching device and a solid state mp3 player. The Acromag controls and monitors the mp3 player containing the sound files used for hazing. Each device has its own power supply and they are plugged into the UPS. The sound files are stored on a removable compact flash card. Please check with DeTect staff before altering any of the sound files on the media card as unauthorized sounds may damage the LRAD speakers. These components should not require servicing, however if sounds are not being played they may need to be power cycled to reset the devices.
Remote Display Computer
The Remote Display Computer in the Completions Bull Pen is connected to the computers in the radar cabinet by the Encana network. The Remote Display Computer simply runs the Merlin Display program to display the results of the Merlin Processor overlaid on an aerial photo of the site and with the guard zone depicted.
Green dots will move about on the Merlin Display. These are birds, but may also be deer, elk, moving trees, people, or vehicles. Some tracks are long and clear and leave a trail to show their direction and speed. Some tracks are short and may appear to pop on screen and disappear.
Bird tracks within the guard zone will initiate the sounds but there is currently no indication of this in the Completions Bull Pen. The remote display is for observation purposes only.
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If "Radar Offline" is indicated in the center of the screen, then something is amiss. Perhaps the radar has stopped, perhaps the Radar Interface Computer, the Merlin Processor Computer, or one of their software components has stopped. Perhaps the electricity has gone out at the radar pad. Perhaps the air conditioner has stopped and allowed the system's temperature to get too warm. In any case, contact Tom Coburn or Kevin McDowell if Radar Offline is on the display.
Logging On
The Merlin computers automatically log on when started. If a logon is ever required:
User Name: Merlin Password: MF _Bird1
Both radar computers use the same username and password.
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Checklist for System Startup
1. Turn on the UPS.
2. Enter username and password for KVM (eight zeros for each). Select 1 on the KVM switch to select the A computer with radar software.
3. Power up radar by switching the 220V transformer on and the turning the radar processor key on.
4. Click the "Run" check box on the Sharpeye software (Leave High Power unchecked). The antenna will start spinning.
5. Assure the SeaScan Server program automatically started on the A computer.
6. On the C-computer open the Merlin Server and assure 4 green dots.
7. Click File- Start and watch until the server table shows all functions on (except Data Server line will show "off' and "untested").
8. Open the Merlin Haze program by double-clicking it icon on the desktop if it did not start automatically.
Checklist for Normal Shutdown
1. Stop and Close the Merlin Haze and Merlin Server program on the C computer. Close all other programs and turn the C computer off.
2. Stop SeaScan software on A computer. Uncheck "RUN" on the Sharpeye Radar controller. Close any other software, and turn A computer off.
3. Turn off the 220V transformer and turn the key to "OFF" on the radar processor.
4. Turn off UPS.
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Remote Display Computer In Completions Bull Pen
1. Turn computer on. Use your Encana credentials to access the programs.
2. If the Merlin Display program is closed, open it by double-clicking its icon on the desktop.
3. Birds can be observed as green dots tracking across the map.
4. Birds tracking across the guard zone will initiate the sounds to play in the field, but no noise is made on the Remote Display Computer.
5. If the "Radar Offline" message is observed in the center of the screen, this indicates that radar data are not available because the network is down, one of the two computers at the radar pad are down, the radar is down, or some other problem has occurred.
Contact Tom Cogburn or Kevin McDowell to begin trouble-shooting.
6. If the Display does not appear to be functioning, you may close and re-open the Merlin Display program or restart the computer.
7. The Remote Display Computer is intended as a check that the system is functioning properly.
Logging On
The Merlin computers automatically log on when started. If a logon is ever required:
User Name: Merlin Password: MF _Bird1
Both radar computers use the same username and password.
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Trouble-Shooting Checks
If the system is not functioning properly, nole the following. Information moves through the system in the following way. If one link is broken later parts cannot function.
1. The Air Conditioner is on a separate circuit from the radar and computer components, but if it is not cooling properly, the system will shut itself down to protect from overheating. The multiple electronic components inside the cabinet create a lot of heat. If the AC is not cooling properly, the system will overheat and shut down.
a. Perhaps the AC filter requires cleaning.
2. The radar motor is powered by a 220V step up transformer. Ensure that the transformer is plugged in and that the breaker is in the ON position. Also check that the Radar Processor {black box) is powered (green light illuminated) and the key is switched to the ON position.
3. The UPS is the first component in the system (aside from the radar's power supply and the separately powered AC ).
a. If the UPS is off, no other components will have power. b. The UPS may have turned off due to an extended power outage. c. The UPS may have turned off due to excessive heat in the cabinet as noted
above.
4. The Radar Interface Computer is next in the system. a. Is the A computer on? b. Is the antenna spinning? c. Is the Sharpeye radar screen updating numbers? d. Is the SeaScan Server program running? e. Sometimes restarting either the programs or the computer will reset everything.
5. The Merlin Processor Computer is next in the system. a. Is the C computer on? b. Is the Merlin Server program open and started? c. Are the lines in its table yellow, on, and updating regularly? d. Is the Merlin Haze program on?
6. The Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) system is next. a. Does the emitter head have power? b. Are all audio lines connected? c. The Merlin Haze program shows a little Speaker icon when a sound is being
played. d. Power cycle the Amp, LRAD controller, and rnp3 player.
7. The Remote Display Computer is last in the system. a. If the Remote Display Computer and its Merlin Display software are functioning
properly and if the entire system in the radar cabinet is functioning properly, bul the Remote Display Computer continues to show "Radar Offline", then perhaps the Network Connection is at fault?
8. Always check AC, UPS, A computer, C computer, LRAD, Network Connection, and Remote Display Computer in that order.
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9. If nothing can be determined to be faulty, a complete or pariia l shut down and start up sometime clears a fault.
Simplified Order of Operations
a. A computer 1. Sharpeye Radar Controller 2. SeaScan Server program
b. C computer 1. Merlin Server program 2. Merlin Haze program
Contact DeTect, Inc. for Tech Support at 850-763-7200 during regular business hours.
After hours call 850-774-7334
Email questions to [email protected] and [email protected]
Maintenance
1. The AJC filters should be cleaned monthly. 2. The computers should be restarted once per month. 3. Every three months the radar scanner tower should be operated.
a. Power off the antenna b. Clean the telescoping legs of sand and grit c. Unbuckle the three turn buckles on the stand d. Apply a dry graphite lube to the legs e. Use the key to run the legs down and then back up.
i. There is a limit switch in the screw motor to stop movement in both directions
f. Tighten the buckles back when fu lly raised g. Return power to the radar antenna
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