SMF/CLC Training Course1. 2 SMF/CLC Calibration Tool for SMF/PAPI SMF/CLC Training course.

SMF/CLC Training Course 1


SMF/CLC

Calibration Tool for SMF/PAPI

SMF/CLC Training course


SMF/CLC: Calibration tool for SMF/PAPI (I)

The SMF Collimated Laser Calibrator (SMF/CLC) is a tool for calibrating the SMF/PAPI instrument performance during the Elevation and the Chromaticity/Intensity Tests.


Course Index

•SMF/CLC Description

•Performing a SMF/PAPI calibration

•Principles of operation

•Calibrator Calibration

•Specifications

•Safety

•Maintenance

•Troubleshooting


SMF/CLC

SMF/CLC descriptionCalibration Tool for SMF/PAPI


SMF/CLC System Inventory List

• SMF/CLC device • Aluminum support for the SMF/PAPI instrument under

calibration • Power supply cord and adaptor • USB cord • Padded protective case with carrying handle • Calibration software license (software is provided with the

SMF/PAPI instrument) • Instruction & safety manuals.

NOTE: SMF/CLC software is installed onto the SMF/PAPI notebook itself, allowing the simultaneous control of both the SMF/CLC and the SMF/PAPI instrument in order to improve the tests automation.


SMF/CLC Description

Front view

Rear view Vertical angle selection screw


Turning-On the System

The SMF/CLC must be powered from its own 12V AC adapter with 110/220 VAC input.

Power Supply Connection

Once plugged, the SMF/CLC display will turn on and start the power-on self-test procedures. The CLC elevation angle will be displayed.

Please make sure that the laser power-on button is in the off position when plugging the SMF/CLC.

Laptop PC connection

The SMF/CLC calibration system is controlled by the SMF/PAPI laptop PC connected through a full speed USB 2.0 serial port.

Once turned on the SMF/CLC and the laptop, wait until Windows OS initializes, and then enter your user name and password.

As soon as Windows OS has terminated its initialization procedure, connect the USB cable to the dedicated USB port on the laptop and to the SMF/CLC


Preliminary operations

Turn on the SMF/CLC for at least 30 minutes before starting a calibration procedure, and the SMF/PAPI at least 15 minutes before: this time is needed to warm-up the built-in high-precision

electronic clinometers.

Instrument heating

Instrument Positioning The calibration of a SMF/PAPI instrument is preferably performed indoor. Positioning follows these steps:

• SMF/CLC is positioned on a stable plane (preferably on the floor), at environmental temperature between 0°C and 35°C and turned on.

• The SMF/CLC horizontality is adjusted acting on the two side adjustment screws and observing the display placed on the SMF/CLC cover. Roll angle must fall between ±0.2 degrees of arc.

• In order to switch over the information on the display, press the arrow buttons on the right side. Information is given cyclically for SMF/CLC elevation angle (deg), horizontality angle (deg) and internal temperature (°C).

• The desired SMF/CLC elevation angle is set acting on the back adjustment screw and observing the display.

• The SMF/PAPI instrument is positioned on the same plane, in front of the SMF/CLC, at a distance of approximately 2.0 meters. SMF/PAPI is mounted on the calibration support included with the SMF/CLC equipment. Distance is measured from the support center to the SMF/CLC optical window.

• SMF/CLC and SMF/PAPI USB cables are connected to the laptop PC, included the SMF/PAPI‟s GPS antenna cable. Please take care of connecting the SMF/PAPI cable always to the same USB port on the laptop PC.


Preliminary operations

Instrument Positioning

Instrument Start-Up and Laptop Configuration

After turning on and connecting both the SMF/PAPI and the SMF/CLC, run the SMF/PAPI Field© software by double-clicking the correspondent desktop icon. Please be sure that the GPS antenna is properly linked to satellites signals.


SMF/CLC

Performing a SMF/PAPI calibrationCalibration Tool for SMF/PAPI


Performing a SMF/PAPI calibration

In order to re-calibrate the SMF/PAPI, a 2 step automatic elevation test is required, measuring the laser beam at 3° and 5.5° approximately (proper values are displayed by the system software). The provided calibration software executes the tests automatically and calculates new calibration parameters for the SMF/PAPI instrument.

Ist Step: starting the SMF/PAPI software (“SMF/PAPI Field) chose the language option, and then the database window will appear to the user:



In the database window chose the country, location, airport, runway code and a PAPI unit ID. An existing airport present in the database can be used otherwise it can be added with all info needed from the right fields within the database window.

After selecting the database info push the “Start Tests” button.

The Elevation Test window will appear:



Chose from the Settings menu on the top of the Elevation Measurement window the “Calibrate SMF/PAPI “ option at the end of the list of the options for Settings menu.

The SMF/CLC prompt window will appear:

Follow the instructions / check the connections and then press “OK” button.

Distance between SMF/CLC front plate and SMF/PAPI central screw has to be 2 meters.



The user will be prompted to adjust the SMF/CLC elevation angle to a software specified value (usually between 2.5 and 3.0 degrees of arc), and the horizontality angle to 0.0 deg. Angles are real-time displayed in the prompt window:

Adjust the rear screw of the calibrator in order to read in real time the required value for SMF/CLC elevation.



When SMF/CLC is properly adjusted by the operator, the „Ok‟ button on the prompt is enabled. Pressing it, the SMF/PAPI measurement head will be automatically positioned for the first calibration step.

Switch on the laser from the rear button and direct the beams onto the SMF/PAPI measuring window so to it directly into the center (check it with a white piece of paper). In case elevation angle is set so not to point the beam to the center, also if it is as required from the software in the previous step, adjust it with the rear screw of SMF/CLC so to hit the center of the SMF/PAPI window.


Performing a SMF/PAPI calibrationLaser beam should be visible in the test camera frame:

Now push the “Start Calibration Measurement” button. In this way the first step measurement is started. After the measurement ends, the SMF/PAPI

head will result perfectly aligned with the laser beams. First step then is terminated. Results are displayed on the right white screen.


Performing a SMF/PAPI calibrationII STEP:Software will ask the operator to turn off the laser beam, without moving the SMF/CLC:

If wanted Laser may be left on, avoiding to stare or watch at the laser beam that may cause illness to eyes-retina.

Once it is done press the “OK” button in the window.

At this moment the user will be prompted to adjust the SMF/CLC elevation angle to a second specified value (usually between 5.0 and 5.5 degrees of arc), and the horizontality angle to 0.0 deg. Again, angles are real-time displayed in the prompt window.


At this moment the user will be prompted to adjust the SMF/CLC elevation angle to a second specified value (usually between 5.0 and 5.5 degrees of arc), and the horizontality angle to 0.0 deg. Again, angles are real-time displayed in the prompt window:


Adjust the rear screw of the calibrator in order to read in real time the required value for SMF/CLC elevation.



When SMF/CLC is properly adjusted by the operator, the „Ok‟ button on the prompt is enabled. Pressing it, the SMF/PAPI measurement head will be automatically positioned for the second calibration step.

Switch on the laser from the rear button if you had it switched off and direct the beams onto the SMF/PAPI measuring window so to it directly into the center (check it with a white piece of paper). In case elevation angle is set so not to point the beam to the center, also if it is as required from the software in the previous step, adjust it with the rear screw of SMF/CLC so to hit the center of the SMF/PAPI window.


Performing a SMF/PAPI calibrationLaser beam should be visible in the test camera frame:

Now push the “Start Calibration Measurement” button. In this way the second step measurement is started. After the measurement ends, the SMF/PAPI head will result perfectly aligned with the laser beams. Second step then is

terminated. Results are displayed on the right white screen.


Performing a SMF/PAPI calibrationAfter the measurement ends, the system software will inform the calibration procedure is correctly terminated :

Now push the “OK” button to quit the calibration measurement. Based on the 2-step measurement results, the system software will automatically re-calculate the SMF/PAPI internal calibration coefficients and store them in the laptop PC. Old coefficients are backed-up and referenced with the re-calibration date. Measured elevation angles from both the SMF/CLC and SMF/PAPI are displayed into the Log Report frame in the Test window.

The automatic measurement procedure can be interrupted at any time before the normal procedure ends pushing the “Quit Measurement” button. Pressing the „Cancel‟ button on

the prompt windows will abort the calibration procedure.


LOG REPORT

Any time a test reaches its end, results are printed in the Log Report frame of the Test window.

A Log Report file is also saved automatically in the directory “C:\Program Files\Argos\SMFPapiField\logs” as .rtf files, and titled with the ICAO code and measurement date (ex: “LogReport_LIPH_10-November-2010 11.40.rtf”).


SMF/CLC

Principles of operationCalibration Tool for SMF/PAPI


SMF/CLC: Principles of operation

SMF/CLC is new generation laser level that guarantees the positioning of a laser beam with a stable and affordable inclination regarding the horizon; the accuracy of such elevation is below 15 arc-seconds at any environmental temperature. Laser levels with such precision must guarantee that the generated beam maintain the alignment with respect to the level mechanical axis.


SMF/CLC: Principles of operation


SMF/CLC

Calibrator CalibrationCalibration Tool for SMF/PAPI


SMF/CLC: Calibration

SMF/CLC calibration is performed at the factory using high precision proprietary methods. A possible, although infrequent, loss of calibration may be due to a shock or hard-vibration suffered by the CLC. When perfectly calibrated, the SMF/CLC generates two laser beams that remain parallel to each other at any distance. A loss of calibration causes a lack of parallelism of the two optical beams, as a consequence of the misalignment between the optical and the mechanical parts of the SMF/CLC. In order to check whether the CLC itself conserves its calibration, operator should measure the transverse distance between the two laser beams at the output of the calibrator, and at a distance of approximately 5 meters. Distance can be easily checked by screening the two beams on a tape meter or white paper

The two measured distances should coincide within an error of 1 mm. Will the distances not coincide, please contact the company producer for SMF/CLC re-calibration.


SMF/CLC

SpecificationsCalibration Tool for SMF/PAPI


SMF/CLC: Operating performances


SMF/CLC: Specifications

SMF/PAPI calibration may be performed during the night or in daylight hours, preferably indoor at operating temperatures not exceeding 35 °C and with a relative humidity up to 95% without condensation.


SMF/CLC

SafetyCalibration Tool for SMF/PAPI


SMF/CLC: Safety ConsiderationsRead the SMF/CLC System manual and SMF/PAPI System Manual before setting-up your equipment. A thorough understanding of system components and their requirements will help you install the system safely and efficiently. Follow all applicable safety procedures required by your company, industry standards, and government or other regulatory agencies. Allow only qualified personnel to set-up Argos products and auxiliary equipment. Use only approved equipment. Using unapproved equipment in an approved system may void agency approvals. Make sure all equipment is rated and approved for the environment in which you are using it. Follow all instructions for setting-up components and accessories. Install all electrical connections to local code. Use only electrical wire of gauge and insulation sufficient to handle the current demand. All wiring must meet local codes. Route electrical wiring along a protected path. Make sure they will not be damaged by moving equipment. Protect components from damage, wear and harsh environment conditions. Allow ample room for maintenance, panel accessibility, and cover removal. Protect equipment with safety devices as specified by applicable safety regulations. If safety devices must be removed for set-up, install them immediately after the work is completed and check them for proper functioning.

Only qualified personnel, physically capable of operating the equipment and with no impairments in their judgment or reaction times, should operate this equipment.

Read all system component manuals before operating this equipment. A thorough understanding of system components and their operation will help you operate the system safely and efficiently.

Do not stare into SMF/CLC laser beams. Avoid laser reflections against windows, mirrors and reflecting surfaces.


SMF/CLC

MaintenanceCalibration Tool for SMF/PAPI


SMF/CLC: MaintenanceDue to its structural characteristics, SMF/CLC does not require any special maintenance. However it is necessary to check periodically some parts of the instrument.

Only qualified personnel should be allowed to perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair tasks. Only persons who are properly trained and familiar with Argos equipment are permitted to service this equipment.

Always use safety devices when working on this equipment. Follow maintenance procedures recommended in your equipment manuals. Connect all disconnected equipment ground cables and wires after servicing the equipment. Ground all conductive equipment. Use only approved Argos replacement parts.

Using unapproved parts or making unapproved modifications to equipment may void agency approvals and create safety hazards. Do not attempt to service electrical equipment if standing water is present. Use caution when servicing electrical equipment in a high humidity environment. Use tools with insulated handles when working with electrical equipment.

Looking at the SMF/CLC frontally, an optical window can be noticed. Clean the window with a special tissue for optical instruments. Do not use solvent other than optics-specific liquids, like for example spectroscopy methanol. Do not scratch the window. Do not force the adjustment screws, as they can suffer damages.

Handle with care the SMF/CLC unit during measurement and avoid to damage power supply and data cables.


SMF/CLC

TroubleshootingCalibration Tool for SMF/PAPI


SMF/CLC: diagnostics

Diagnostics of SMF/CLC system is made by the Power-on Self-test and through the on-line monitoring function of the system software provided in the standard package. The on-line monitoring function of the system software controls:

• Digital I/O board communication and data integrity• Too low or too high temperature of the main electronic inclinometer• Electronic clinometers’ data acquisition.


SMF/CLC: Troubleshooting The measurement system is controlled by the laptop PC through a single USB 2.0 cable.

While connecting the cable, operator will hear some acoustic signals assuring that the operation has succeeded. If this does not happen, the reason may be incorrect choice of the USB port, in this case a device driver installation is required, so make sure to have plugged the USB into the correct USB socket.

SMFPapiField software uses internal controls to notify the operator about possible deviations from ideal performance behavior. When a deviation occurs, the operator is presented a warning message box containing both a short description of the problem and a possible action in order to solve it.

It could occur that device drivers are not properly registered during installation. This causes errors when software attempts to read angles from the SMF/CLC. To fix the problem, open a Command Prompt window, running it as administrator; change directory to “C:\Program Files\Argos\SMFPapiField\bin”; run the executable “RegisterGPS.exe”.

If the problems are not solved, please contact the company producer and send failure reports.

Do not attempt in any case to open the Instrument: otherwise warranty will cease immediately.

SMF/CLC Training Course1. 2 SMF/CLC Calibration Tool for SMF/PAPI SMF/CLC Training course.

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