About this Documentation The VideoRay Pro 4 has sophisticated features, but is easy to use and maintain once you learn its capabilities and the proper operating techniques. This documentation will guide you through your first dive and provide additional details to help you learn all aspects of its operation.
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We have made every effort to ensure that this documentation is accurate and provides you with the most effective means to learn how to use your new Pro 4. However, there is no substitute for experience and/or training, especially with respect to the real purpose for which you plan to use this equipment. We encourage you to explore options beyond the scope of these materials to expand your knowledge and skills necessary to support your application.
Glossary Accelerometer - A device used to measure acceleration - used to determine pitch and roll of the ROV Accessory - An optional device that can be used with the VideoRay system to augment its features and capabilities Accessory Port - ROV connection for ROV mounted accessories that provides access to power and data...
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Computer - Primary topside component required to run VideoRay Cockpit Control Bar - A VideoRay Cockpit feature that provides access to several functional areas of the software Control Panel - The surface component that provides power and communications with the ROV...
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IEC - (International Electrotechnical Commission) Power cord connector standard Import - Method to receive and process data from other systems Instrument - VideoRay Cockpit interface feature to display information or control features Instrument Display - The ability to set an instrument's opacity or turn it on or off...
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Sensor - An instrument for measuring a specific property of an object or the environment Service Bay - VideoRay Cockpit interface that provides diagnostic information and checklists Settings - The values of specific controls or parameters, or the ability to manage these...
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VGA - Video Graphics Array) Video format and connector style Video - In VideoRay context, the image from the ROV's camera or the ability to record this image Video Encoder - Defines a method of storing a video image within a file format...
How hard is it to learn how to operate the Pro 4? The Pro 4 is easy to learn to operate. In a few hours, user should be able to pilot the ROV confidently in clear, calm water and know enough about it to maintain it in good condition for years. However, mastering all the knowledge and developing the skills to be able to pilot the ROV in much more demanding situations with near zero visibility and swift current will require more experience.
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Can you export data from the Pro 4? Data from the VideoRay Pro 4 sensors can be exported to other systems via a COM port in real time or a file for post processing. See the Data Export...
VideoRay is pleased to present the latest model in its top-of-the line professional series Micro-ROVs - the VideoRay Pro 4. Like the Pro 3, the Pro 4 was designed for performance and maintainability, but has entirely new internal electronics, including camera, LED lights, processor, and added sensors. With powerful brushless motors, the Pro 4 further extends VideoRay's position as the fastest and most powerful tether pulling vehicle.
Pro 4. While you will likely find the Pro 4 easy to pilot, we strongly recommend that your first dive be conducted in a controlled environment such as a small tank or pool. As you gain experience with your system and confidence in using it, you will be able to operate in more challenging conditions that might include low visibility, currents and potential hazards that could snag your tether or trap your ROV.
Have proper safety equipment, such as PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices), on hand and make sure you know how to use them before you need them. Keep fingers, hair, loose clothing and other objects away from VideoRay's propellers. Be aware of and follow any legal ordinances or regulations in your area regarding operation of vessels and underwater equipment in the water.
Hand Controller The hand controller is used to pilot the VideoRay and operate other features like the lights, camera controls and manipulator. The hand controller is pre-programmed, but can be customized to meet specific user or operational needs.
Conduct a Visual Inspection Assuming this is your first time using the VideoRay, everything should be in proper working order and ready to go, but it is good practice to perform a pre-dive inspection before every dive, even your first. If any problems are...
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Turn on the computer and wait for the system to complete the boot up process. After the computer has started, start VideoRay Cockpit using the desktop icon, or by selecting it from the Start->All Programs->VideoRay menu.
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VideoRay Cockpit screen with simulated video image - your image will likely be different. Testing the System's Functions The next step is to ensure that the essential features of the ROV are functioning properly. Use the hand controller to perform the following tests. See the...
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Press and hold the Camera Tilt Up button - the camera should tilt up smoothly through its entire range. Press and hold the Camera Tilt Down button - the camera should tilt down smoothly through its entire range. Press and hold the Camera Focus In button - the camera should focus in smoothly through its entire range.
VideoRay is to check the buoyancy. For most operations, the buoyancy is optimal when the top of the float block is even with the water surface and the ROV is level. If the ROV is to buoyant or heavy, the vertical position may be hard to maintain or control.
Equipment Maintenance guides. If you still have difficulty or questions, contact VideoRay. Your success is our success, and we are here to help you get the most out of your VideoRay. VideoRay contact information is available in the About this Documentation...
Equipment Guide Understanding the features and capabilities of the Pro 4 equipment is essential to get the most value out of using the system. The sections within this Equipment Guide provide details about each of the components. Topics in this Section...
The Pro 4 ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) is depth rated to 300 meters (1000 feet). Thrusters provide mobility and are controlled from the surface using the hand controller. The ROV carries cameras, lights and other sensors to the underwater locations being searched, explored or inspected.
ROV Connections The ROV includes the following connections: Connection Type Function Tether Whip (View 8 pin round male Used to connect the ROV to the tether for power, Specifications) communications, video and accessory support. Accessory Port 9 pin rectangular Provides power, communications and video. Can be used to (Specifications listed below) female connect accessories electrically to the ROV.
ROV. The depth of the Pro 4 is controlled by a vertical thruster. For the thruster to operate efficiently, the buoyancy of the ROV should be near neutral. This can be accomplished by adding or removing ballast weights that are stored in the skid pods on the bottom of the ROV.
Based on service records at VideoRay, the most frequent cause of ROV failure is the failure of the operator to inspect the thruster cartridge seals and replace them as necessary.
Camera Menu section of the VideoRay Cockpit Guide The video circuit in the ROV is switchable between the main camera and a video conductor pair on the ROV accessory port. This allows external cameras to be used as well, but only one camera can be viewed at a time when using this method.
Main Lights The ROV uses two forward facing variable LED light modules that can be controlled from the surface using the hand controller. The lights produce 3,600 lumens. The beam pattern is optimized to minimize glare in the main camera dome and provide maximum vertical coverage.
Internal Humidity - Indicates the relative humidity of the air inside the ROV. The information provided by these sensors is conveyed to the pilot via instruments in VideoRay Cockpit, and some items including the depth, compass heading and temperature can be overlaid on the video.
Control Panel Power Specifications The VideoRay Pro 4 operates on typical residential power in the range of 100-240 Volts AC, 50,60 Hz. This can be provided from the land-based grid, a generator, or a battery with an inverter. The typical power requirements for operating from a generator or inverter are 600 Watts minimum.
Safety Circuits The Control Panel includes two circuit safety components. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) / Circuit Breaker LIM (Line Insulation Monitor) See the Pre-Dive Preparations section of the Quick Start Instructions for information on testing these components. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) / Circuit Breaker The GFCI / Circuit Breaker protects the operator from shock from the AC circuit of the power source, and protects the equipment from a current overload.
Switches and Connections Control Panel Top Control Panel Rear The control panel includes the following switches: Switch Location Function GFCI/Circuit Control Turns on the power outlets and enables the power switch. Breaker panel top Power Control Turns the control panel on. panel top LIM Test Control...
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LIM Bypass Control If the LIM alarm state has been triggered, the LIM can be bypassed by enabling panel rear this switch. If the LIM bypass switch is enabled, LIM protection is disabled. This situation can pose a risk to people handling the tether or in the water with the ROV.
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AUX - (Connects to tether pin 6 and ROV accessory port pin 6) No Connection The AUX Port provides access to the APIC. Some accessories use the AUX port directly and the topside device requires a female DB-9 connector. Some accessories can be built into the control panel. For control panels that have built-in accessories, there is a switch on the back of the control panel that determines whether the APIC is connected to the AUX port, or to the accessory components inside the control panel.
VideoRay does not recommend installing additional hardware or software on the computer unless you are familiar with its operation and confident it will not interfere with VideoRay Cockpit or the computer's ports. Software that is packaged with VideoRay accessories has been tested and is approved for use.
For Windows XP systems, the computer system has been set up to use the "Administrator" account and there is no password assigned. For Windows 7 systems, the computer system has been set up to use the "VideoRay" account and there is no password assigned.
The Dell 4600 includes two USB 3.0 ports on the right hand side of the computer. These ports are not compatible with the VideoRay Pro 4 control panel and should not be used to connect the computer to the control...
For better outdoor viewing in daylight, the Pro 4 includes a sun shade that mounts on the control panel case. The monitor includes the following switches:...
Windows compatible game controller can be used with the Pro 4, but each controller requires a configuration file to map the joystick, buttons and knobs to the ROV functions. VideoRay Cockpit currently includes ® two hand controller configuration files, the VideoRay standard industrial hand controller, and the Logitech...
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Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft. Logitech is a registered trademark of Logitech. Logitech Cordless RumblePad 2 is a trademark of Logitech.
Help The Help button opens this documentation on the computer. Button Location and Label Press the Help button to open this documentation on the computer.
Joystick The joystick is used to control the horizontal motion of the ROV. Location The Joystick does not have a label. Displace the joystick forward (away from you) to move the ROV forward. Displace the joystick rearward (toward you) to move the ROV backward. Displace the Joystick to the left to turn the ROV to its left. Displace the Joystick to the right to turn the ROV to its right.
Depth Control The Depth Control knob is used to make the ROV dive or surface by controlling the direction and amount of vertical thrust. Knob Location and Label Rotate the Depth Control knob forward (counterclockwise) to dive. The greater the rotation from the center position, the faster it will dive.
Camera Switch The Camera Switch button toggles the video source from the main camera to the external camera and back again. Button Location and Label Press the Camera Switch button to switch from the main camera to the external camera. Press the Camera Switch button again to switch back from the external camera to the main camera.
Camera Tilt The Camera Tilt buttons control the vertical angle of the front camera. Button Locations and Labels Tilt Up Tilt Down Press and hold the Tilt Up button to tilt the front camera up. Release the button when the camera has tilted to the desired setting or has reached the end of its range.
Camera Focus The Camera Focus buttons adjust the focus of the front camera. Button Locations and Labels Focus In Focus Out Press and hold the Camera Focus In button to adjust the camera focus for near objects. Release the button when the camera has focused to the desired setting or has reached the end of its range.
Lights The Lights buttons control the intensity of the lights. Button Locations and Labels Lights Dim Lights Bright Press the Lights Dim button to decrease the intensity of the lights. Press the Lights Bright button to increase the intensity of the lights. You can press and hold the Lights buttons to force the lights to continue to decrease or increase their intensity until they reach the desired setting or the end of their range.
Video Window section of the VideoRay Cockpit Guide. Snapshots are saved as .JPG formatted files in the "My Documents\VideoRay\Imagery\" folder. They are automatically named by date and time. For more information, see the Snapshots section of the Operations Guide.
VideoRay Cockpit Guide. ® Video Recordings are saved as Windows .WMV (Windows Media Video) formatted files in the "My Documents\VideoRay\Imagery\" folder. They are automatically named by date and time. For more information, see the Video Recording section of the Operations Guide...
Manipulator / Cutter (Optional) The Manipulator buttons open or close the manipulator (or the cutter). Button Locations and Labels Manipulator Open Manipulator Close Press and hold the Manipulator Open button to open the manipulator jaws. Release the button when the jaws have opened to the desired setting or have reached the end of their range.
Lateral Thruster (Optional) The Lateral Thruster knob controls the direction and amount of lateral thrust applied. Knob Location and Label Rotate the knob to the left (counterclockwise) to slide the vehicle to the left. Rotate the knob to the right (clockwise) to slide the vehicle to the right. The lateral thruster is optional and may not be included in all configurations.
ROV. The maximum tether length is limited by the ability of the tether to transmit power and data signals. The maximum tether length of the Pro 4 is about 600 meters (2,000 feet). Tether Diameter...
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Petroleum will degrade the rubber and grease will attract dirt and lead to abrasion and corrosion. VideoRay recommends lubricating the tether connectors with pure silicone spray. Kevlar is a registered trademark of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company...
TDS (Tether Deployment System) The TDS (Tether Deployment System) consists of a tether reel within a case. This system allows the tether to be managed neatly, and helps avoid tether tangles. The TDS comes in two sizes: standard and extended capacity. Both have the same exterior physical dimensions, but the extra capacity TDS can store more tether.
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Connections Summary Connections Summary - see the descriptions below the figure for each numbered connection. The male tether connector on the ROV is connected to the female connector on the tether. The ROV strain relief cable is connected to the strain relief webbing on the tether. The male tether connector is connected to the female tether connector on the control panel.
The female VGA Out connector on the computer is connected to the female VGA In connector on the monitor using the supplied VGA cable. The computer power cord is connected from the computer power cord receptacle to one of the GFCI protected IEC outlets on the control panel using the supplied country specific adapter cable.
Accessory Equipment Support Most submerged accessories are mounted to the ROV on the existing VideoRay Pro 4 skid, or they may have their own skid designed to replace the standard skid. The electrical and data requirements of submerged accessories are supported via an accessory port on ROV that includes power and an interface to the APIC (Auxiliary Pair of Independent Conductors).
"BlueView delivers state of the art, compact acoustic imaging and measurement solutions for defense, energy, civil engineering, transportation, and port security applications worldwide." For VideoRay users, BlueView provides multibeam imaging sonars and a pole mount device with remote pan and tilt capabilities.
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The BlueView Pole Mount includes a remote control pan and tilt mount for the sonar. The topside interface can be built into the control panel, eliminating the need to carry additional components or connect cables. BV-3100 Pole Mount This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
The Buckley's Cathodic Protection (CP) probe can be used to assess and monitor corrosion inhibiting systems. The probe mounts on the ROV. The probe is available in both contact and proximity versions. A calibration cell is also available. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
The probe does not need to touch the surface under test, as measurements can be taken through 5 mm (0.2 inch) of water. Readings are not influenced by the probe's orientation. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
Deployed in minutes on any vessel, AquaMap ShipHull "paints" a trace of the ROV's path on a computer image of the hull. When the hull is painted, the job is done. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
The Franatech METS methane sensor offers a comprehensive range of versions and calibration settings to meet different requirements for dissolved gas detection and measurement of concentrations. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
"KCF is a technology development company with the capability to solve challenging problems in our five core technical focus areas, including Underwater Navigation and Devices" For VideoRay users, KCF provides the Smart Tether, a non-acoustic ROV and tether position tracking system. It does not require additional transponders and can be deployed almost instantly.
The LYYN visibility enhancement systems provide real time image clarification allowing you to see more details and further in water with limited visibility. They can be used to process the video directly from the Pro 4, or with any external composite video source.
Remotely Operated Vehicles." For VideoRay users, Tritech provides two different types of sonars. Both systems' topside components can be built into the control panel to eliminate the need to carry additional components or connect cables.
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This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations. The Tritech Micron Nav position tracking system is a USBL (Ultra Short Baseline) acoustic tracking systems that offers quick deployment of one USBL station and a mobile station mounted on the ROV. The system offers a variety of tracking modes and support GPS integration.
"Turner Designs manufactures optical instruments to measure the properties of water for environmental and industrial applications." For VideoRay users, provides the C3 submersible fluorometer that can incorporate up to three optical sensors. Turner Designs C3 Fluorometer The C3 Submersible Fluorometer is designed to incorporate up to three optical sensors ranging from the deep ultraviolet to the infrared spectrum.
The YSI 600XL compact sonde can measure up to eleven parameters simultaneously: Dissolved Oxygen Temperature Conductivity Salinity Specific Conductance Resistivity Depth or Shallow Vented Level Total Dissolved Solids This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
"VideoRay manufactures a variety of add-on accessories for its Pro 4 ROV systems that enhance the capabilities and range of applications." VideoRay accessories are classified as those that are included with all Pro 4 system configurations, and those that are optional or packaged only within specific Pro 4 configurations.
VideoRay Included Accessories Several topside accessories are included with all Pro 4 system configurations. Sun Shade The sun shade can be attached directly to the control panel lid and provides shade for the computer and monitor to make it easier to see the displays when working in bright light. See the label on the sun shade for installation instructions.
VideoRay Optional Accessories VideoRay provides the following optional accessories: Manipulator Cutter Ship Hull Inspection Stabilizer Lateral Thruster Laser Scaling Device Radiation Sensor External Camera High Definition Camera This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
VideoRay Manipulator The VideoRay Manipulator allows the Pro 4 to retrieve items. The manipulator will support up to 34 kilograms (75 pounds). The jaws open as wide as 50 mm (2 inches) and can be used with a smooth face or pointed screws for a better grip.
VideoRay Cutter The VideoRay Cutter can be used to cut rope, soft metal cables and other items up to 12 mm (0.5 inch) thick. The cutter blade can be rotated while the ROV is on the surface to cut horizontally, vertically or any angle in between.
VideoRay Hull Inspection Stabilizer The VideoRay Hull Inspection Stabilizer mounts above the float block and can be used to stabilize the ROV against a ship's hull or other smooth surface. Through suction induced by the vertical thruster (thrust up), the ROV can be held securely against the surface or track along the surface even in surge or current.
VideoRay Lateral Thruster VideoRay Lateral Thruster The VideoRay Lateral Thruster is an easy to mount attachment that provides thrust perpendicular to the direction of view of the main camera. The lateral motion may be valuable in certain piloting situations, such as rotating around a piling while keeping it in view.
VideoRay Laser Scaling Device The VideoRay Laser Scaling Device can be used to estimate the size of objects in the field of view of the camera. Two laser point beams (or optionally parallel lines) spaced a fixed distance apart project forward to provide a fixed reference within the camera's video image for estimating the size of objects illuminated by the beams.
VideoRay Radiation Sensor The VideoRay Radiation Sensor mounts to the bottom of the Pro 4 and can detect radiation levels and display text values, a plot or trigger an alarm based upon reading that exceed a user set threshold. The system is very sensitive to Gamma radiation and high energy X-Rays.
VideoRay External Camera VideoRay External Camera A second external camera can be mounted on the Pro 4 and directed laterally, toward the rear or vertically up or down. The VideoRay Pro 4 supports to video circuits that can be switched between the main camera and the second external camera.
VideoRay High Definition Camera VideoRay has developed a High Definition camera capability that houses the camera in a second hull that can be mounted below the main hull. This system has been used on several projects, but is currently in the prototype stage.
PAM (Protocol Adapter / Multiplexer) PAM modules provide several features to extend the capabilities of VideoRay systems and accessories. PAM modules can adapt communications protocols to make devices that would not normally be able to communicate over the tether work by converting the protocol to a compatible format.
TINA (Tether Interface Node Adapter) TINA modules allow accessories to be connected directly to the tether without the ROV. This creates the following possibilities. Use an external camera as a drop camera Add an external camera and manipulator to make a drop camera with retrieval capabilities Use a radiation sensor or thickness gauge on land without having the weight or size of the ROV.
Miscellaneous Accessories In addition to the equipment that is included with each Pro 4 configuration and the optional accessories, VideoRay recommends users procure a variety of mission support items. The list of recommended items will vary depending on the typical mission requirements, although it will be obvious that some of these items have general applicability to all mission profiles.
VideoRay Cockpit Guide VideoRay Cockpit is the Pro 4's control software. It communicates your control inputs to the ROV, and provides feedback from the ROV's video and sensor systems. VideoRay Cockpit consists of a Video Window , the Control Instruments and the Control Bar .
The video window title bar displays the number of snapshots and video recordings captured during the current session. When video is being recording the word "Active" and the current video file size is also displayed. These numbers are not retained when you close VideoRay Cockpit. If there are no snapshots or recordings, no information is displayed.
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Microphone volume adjustments can be made using the standard Microsoft Windows audio settings and properties.
Video Text Overlay VideoRay Cockpit allows text to be overlaid over the video image. This text will be recorded along with the video in snapshots and video recordings. The text overlay information includes: Date Time User Defined Text (up to 8 lines)
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The text overlay can be toggled on of off by pressing the Text Overlay toggle button in the lower right of the video window. Currently, all items are toggled on or off together. For indexing and cataloging purposes, you may want to have the text overlay displayed when you start recording a video, but then turn it off after a few seconds so it does not detract from the video image.
Instruments In addition to controlling the Pro 4 and displaying video, VideoRay Cockpit provides numerous feedback and control instruments. These instruments float on the desktop and can be moved, resized, turned on or off or made transparent. You can also restore their sizes and positions to their default locations.
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See the User Settings Section of the VideoRay Cockpit Guide. Control Bar Tools The Control Bar has three tools that allow you to close all instruments, make them all transparent, or make them all opaque.
ROV Health Indicator The ROV Health Indicator provides status information for several key operational parameters, including the power management system, power, communications, internal humidity and internal temperature. Display Power Management Status Indicator Power Status Indicator Communications Status Indicator Humidity Status Indicator Temperature Status Indicator The status indicators are green if the status is okay, but change to red if a problem is detected.
The Pro 4 is a very responsive vehicle. The gain settings can be adjusted at any time according to the piloting requirements. New users may find it easier to learn how to pilot the ROV by decreasing the Yaw gain.
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Repeat this process to associate new gain settings with any button at any time. Start-up Sensitivity When VideoRay Cockpit starts, it uses the "Start-Up" settings. If you want the control sensitivity to have specific settings on start-up, save the values to the "Start-Up" button.
Compass and Attitude Indicator The Compass Instrument displays a variety of information, including the heading of the ROV, the Auto Heading status, an artificial horizon to indicate the attitude of the ROV, and the horizontal thruster settings. The Compass Instrument is also used to engage and set Auto Heading. Display Compass Rose Auto Heading Control/Indicator...
Depth Gauge The Depth Gauge displays the depth of the ROV and the Auto Depth status. The Depth Gauge is also used to engage and set Auto Depth. Display Depth Indicator Flag Thruster Setting Indicator Auto Depth Control/Indicator The depth of the ROV is indicated as a number in the flag, which moves along the scale proportionally to the depth.
Camera and Lights Indicator The Camera and Lights Indicator displays information about the ROV's camera and the lights. The Camera and Lights Indicator Instrument is also used to select the active camera when an external camera is in use, and activate the camera menu system for the front camera.
Be aware that VideoRay Pro 4 does not use the same defaults as the camera manufacturer's Factory Default settings. For VideoRay Pro 4 the Lens Type must be set to "ELC," the ELC Level to "6" and the DSS must be set to "1X" and WB Mode set to "PUSH." To quickly restore the camera to the recommended...
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Pro 4 camera menu default settings, first restore the factory default settings, and then change the Lens Type to "ELC" and the Level to "6" in the Lens sub-menu, and change the DSS setting to "1X" in the Exposure sub-menu and change the WB Mode to "PUSH" in the White Balance sub-menu.
The default settings for the VideoRay Pro 4 are listed below. In the Setting column, an underlined value means the setting must be used, "N/A" means the setting is not available for use with the Pro 4, and "User" means the user can select their preference for this setting.
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Wide Dynamic Range Mode is set to On or Auto. SPECIAL CAM TITLE User Set the camera title, which can be displayed on-screen. Camera Title LANGUAGE ENGLISH Select the camera menu language. SYNC Set the Sync mode. The VideoRay Pro 4 does not support an external Sync.
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COMM ADJ User Set the Camera ID, which can be displayed on-screen and Communications communications baud rate. Adjust PRIVACY User Privacy Zones allows portions of the image to be blacked out. MOTION DET User Motion Detection allows the camera to react to motion in the Motion Detect scene.
If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu. RETURN Return to the main menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
Higher numbers can work well when the VideoRay is stable, and in low light situations this feature may provide better visual penetration than increasing the brightness of the lights.
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If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu. RETURN Return to the main menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu. RETURN Return to the main menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
Camera Sub-menu: WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) MENU ITEM DESCRIPTION WDR MODE Wide Dynamic Range - Set the Wide Dynamic Range mode. Wide Dynamic Range can be Wide Dynamic used to improve the image quality of a scene that includes light and dark areas. In images Range Mode without Wide Dynamic Range, either the light areas are too light when the exposure is set for the dark areas, or the dark areas are too dark when the exposure is set for the light areas.
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Level INITIAL Reset this sub-menu to the factory default state. VideoRay uses optimized camera menu settings and the factory default settings should not be used. If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu.
If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu. RETURN Return to the main menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu. RETURN Return to the main menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu. RETURN Return to the main menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
LOCATION Set the location of the Camera Title on the image. Use the arrow buttons or keys to adjust the location of the title. Click on the menu button two times to set the location. RETURN Return to the Special sub-menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu. RETURN Return to the Special sub-menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu. RETURN Return to the Special sub-menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
Click on the menu button two times to set the width and height. RETURN Return to the Privacy sub-menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu. RETURN Return to the Special sub-menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
If you want to reset this sub-menu to the VideoRay optimized settings, use the recommended settings described for this sub-menu. RETURN Return to the Special sub-menu. Settings in bold are available for use with the VideoRay Pro 4. VideoRay defaults are underlined.
Be aware that VideoRay Pro 4 does not use the same defaults as the camera manufacturer's Factory Default settings. For VideoRay Pro 4 the Lens Type must be set to "ELC," the ELC Level to "6" and the DSS must be set to "1X" and the WB Mode to "PUSH." To quickly restore the camera to the recommended...
The Pro 4 has several temperature sensors including internal temperature sensors to monitor the health of the ROV. These other temperature sensors can be monitored in the Engine Room. See the Engine Room...
Turns Indicator The Turns Indicator displays the direction and number of times the ROV has consecutively turned through 360 degrees. It also indicates which direction the pilot should turn in order to "unwind" the tether. Display The Turns Indicator can help the ROV pilot manage the ROV and tether by indicating the number and direction of horizontal turns.
Accessory Instruments Accessory Instruments provide seamless integration of accessories with VideoRay Cockpit. Accessory instruments include: VideoRay Manipulator / Cutter VideoRay Lateral Thruster VideoRay Laser Scaling Device VideoRay External Camera LYYN Hawk Visibility Enhancement For information on using these accessories, see the corresponding sections for each accessory in the...
The feedback is based upon the status of the hand controller input, not the manipulator or cutter action. The VideoRay Manipulator and Cutter are optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
Communications Reset The size and display of the Lateral Thruster instrument can be adjusted. See the Instruments section of this guide for more information. The VideoRay Lateral Thruster is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
The size and display of the Laser Scaling Device instrument can be adjusted. See the Instruments section of this guide for more information. The VideoRay Laser Scaling Device is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
Main Camera Active External Camera Active The VideoRay External Camera is activated by the Switch button in the upper right hand corner of the Camera instrument. When the external camera is active, the tilt and focus indictors and menu button are disabled.
The size and display of the LYYN Instrument can be adjusted. See the Instruments section of this guide for more information. The LYYN Visibility Enhancement system is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
Power Control PAM The Power Control PAM instrument is a switching instrument that allows the operator to turn accessories on or off. The VideoRay PAM Device is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
The control bar is displayed at the bottom of the primary monitor. It contains a series of buttons. Moving from right to left, the buttons are as follows: Close VideoRay Cockpit Open Help Open the Service Bay Open the VideoRay Data Folder Open the Engine Room Open the User Settings Launch KCF Smart Tether Software Launch BlueView ProViewer Software...
Close Close The Close button can be used to close, or stop, VideoRay Cockpit. ® You can also click on the traditional Windows Close button in the upper right hand corner of the video window to stop VideoRay Cockpit. The Close button does not turn off power to the ROV or control panel.
VideoRay Cockpit was run. The information in the report and log can help diagnose VideoRay Cockpit problems or computer problems that might affect the ability to run VideoRay Cockpit. A fourth button opens the VideoRay Cockpit configuration folder. The button on the far left opens the Communications Status window.
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Show the Error Log Error Log Each time VideoRay Cockpit is run, it writes a log file. The information in this file can be used for diagnostics purposes if the program execution is interrupted for any reason. Print the Diagnostics Report Print Diagnostics The diagnostics report can be printed for review by other parties.
N/A, which could mean the step does not apply or was not conducted. Notes can be added to each step. Completed Pre-Dive checklists are stored in the folder, which can be found in the VideoRay\Checklists\ computer account user's documents folder (Documents\ for Windows 7, or for Windows XP).
N/A, which could mean the step does not apply or was not conducted. Notes can be added to each step. Completed Post Dive checklists are stored in the folder, which can be found in the VideoRay\Checklists\ computer account user's documents folder (Documents\ for Windows 7, or for Windows XP).
Notes can be added to each step. Completed Scheduled Maintenance checklists are stored in the folder, which can be VideoRay\Checklists\ found in the computer account user's documents folder (Documents\ for Windows 7, or My Documents\ Windows XP).
Communications Status Button Communications Status Window Some accessory devices use communications protocols that allow VideoRay Cockpit to assess their status as well. If any of these devices are attached, the Communications Status window will display a pane for each attached device.
Engine Room Engine Room The Engine Room button opens the engine room window. The engine room provides diagnostics information, firmware management and advanced systems tuning. Status Information Power Management...
Status Information The left hand side of the Engine Room window provides status information including thruster status, raw compass and pressure readings and power supply status. There is also a display of the firmware version, internal humidity, system run time and communications timing. The ROV must be warmed up and the electronics stabilized in order to obtain accurate status readings in the Engine room.
ROV. If you turn off the ROV without storing the new values on it, the old values will remain on the ROV and will be reloaded the next time you start VideoRay Cockpit with that ROV attached.
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In general, the ROV should not need to be reset, but this feature may help with some diagnostics procedures. Launch VideoRay Update The remaining button in this section is used to update the firmware in the ROV.
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VideoRay Update See the Software Updates section of this guide for more information about VideoRay Update.
Compass Calibration This process does not normally need to be repeated in the field. If you think there is a problem with the compass calibration, you should contact VideoRay Technical Support for advice before attempting to execute this procedure. The ROV firmware must be version 2.3.3 or higher.
Open the VideoRay Data Folder Open the VideoRay Data Folder The Open VideoRay Data Folder button opens the folder that contains VideoRay data including digitally recorded images and videos. Recorded images and videos are stored in the folder, which can be found in the computer...
User Settings User Settings The User Settings button opens the User Settings window. Within the User Settings, users can control the instruments display, systems settings, data import and data export. Topics in this Section Instrument Settings System Settings Data Import Data Export...
Instruments Settings The Instruments Settings tab allows you to control the display properties of the instruments. Instrument Display The top portion of the Instruments Settings allows you to turn On or Off the display of instruments individually. Check the box next to the instrument to turn On its display. Uncheck the box next to the instrument to turn Off its display.
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There is also a button in the top portion of the Instruments Settings that restores all instruments to their default size and location. The lower portion of the Instrument Settings allows you to adjust the depth gauge scale. You can set the minimum depth, the maximum depth and the grid spacing displayed on the depth gauge.
System Settings The System Settings tab allows you to adjust various system parameters including the depth calibration, compass variation, units of measure and video capture and display settings. The Systems Settings tab allows you to adjust system parameters in the following four areas. Topics in this Section Depth Sensor Compass...
Depth Sensor The Pro 4 depth gauge is calibrated at the factory and in general does not need calibration. The Pro 4 will automatically zero the depth on start up as long as the pressure is below an internally defined threshold. This will allow the system to take into account differences in barometric pressures from one project to the next.
Compass The ROV compass system is designed to display headings relative to Magnetic North. You can enter a local compass variation to account for magnetic declination. The declination is considered positive when the Magnetic North is East of True North. The value you enter is numerically added to the heading from the ROV.
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a dock. If you know the heading of the dock, you can enter the negative of that heading as a variation and the compass will indicate North when you are aligned with the dock. East would indicate a course that is toward the right, either perpendicularly towards or away from the dock depending if you were on the left or right respectively.
System of Measure You can select the units used for display, choosing between either Metric or American. Click on the radio button preceding the desired system of units.
Video Capture and Display The Video Capture and Display settings allow you to select the video format and adjust advanced video settings. Video File Format for Recording The video file format can be one of the following: * - MP4 recording requires a separate video codec that can be purchased separately. This section also includes audio microphone selection and microphone input level meter.
Video Capture Settings The camera has a sophisticated menu system to adjust various settings to achieve the optimal quality image under a variety of conditions. Likewise, the video capture system has similar settings to adjust how the image is converted from analog to digital. You can adjust the brightness, contrast and sharpness of the image. The camera menu will affect the image display on both the analog Video Out and computer.
Advanced Video Settings The advanced video settings allow additional control of the video window, display and file encoding. Allow Resize - If unchecked, the video window is set to 640 (H) X 480 (V) pixels. If checked, the video window size can be adjusted by dragging a side or corner of the window.
COM ports can be used to allow two programs on the same machine to talk to each other. An example might be to have the KCF Smart Tether send the ROV position data to VideoRay Cockpit, so that the position of the ROV can be recorded as overlay text on the video image.
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Port 31, and set the Baud rate to 4800. Check the Enable Real Time Output and click the OK button to close the Settings window. Next, in VideoRay Cockpit, click on the User Settings icon in the Control Bar, and then click on the Data Import tab. Click on the expand arrow on the right hand side for COM port 32.
An example might be to have VideoRay Cockpit send the ROV Depth to a program that could log and/or graph the depth profile of the mission.
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To save data to a file, you can use a terminal emulation program, such as or Tera Term or PuTTY, as the receiving application and save the session data to a log file. Data Export Format The prototypical format conforms to NMEA standards and can be expressed in general terms as: $IDSEN,DD,DD,...*CS<CR><LF>...
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Segment Information Represented mm/dd/yyyy Month/Day/Year hh:mm:ss.s Hours:Minutes:Seconds (UTC) Depth in meters Magnetic sensor heading in degrees Pitch in degrees Roll in degrees Checksum You can select more than one output string. Each string will be written in sequence. You can select more than one COM port and export to several applications simultaneously. * - For more information about NMEA and NMEA data standards, see http://www.nmea.org http://www.tronico.fi/OH6NT/docs/NMEA0183.pdf.
Companion Applications BlueView Technologies ProViewer KCF Technologies Smart Tether Tritech Micron Software for the SeaSprite Sonar Several companion applications can be launched from the control bar. Currently, the applications that are supported include the BlueView ProViewer, KCF Smart Tether and Tritech Micron software. Companion application launch buttons will display if the associated software is installed on the computer in the standard location.
Instrument Display All Instruments Off All Instruments Transparent All Instruments Opaque There are three buttons on the control bar to manage the display properties of instruments. You can turn off all instruments, make them all transparent, or make them all opaque. These buttons work on all instruments as a group.
VideoRay Cockpit Software Management Managing VideoRay Cockpit software is not as complex as it sounds. Management topics include: Software Installation Software Updates Application Integration...
VideoRay Cockpit Software Installation VideoRay Cockpit is installed at the factory on new Pro 4 systems. VideoRay Cockpit does not need to be installed unless the software has been deleted, or the software is being installed on a new computer.
To check for updates, verify the current version number. The version number can be found in the left hand corner of the VideoRay Cockpit Control Bar below the VideoRay logo. Use the Download link at the top of the page to access VideoRay's download center and ascertain if newer software is available.
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To update the firmware, connect the ROV directly to the control panel, and make sure that no accessories are connected to the ROV's accessory port. Turn on the power and run VideoRay Cockpit. When VideoRay Cockpit is running and connected to the ROV, click on the Engine Room button on the Control Bar to open the Engine Room.
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Click on the Store Settings on the ROV button. See the Systems Tuning section of the Engine Room for more information about systems tuning parameters. Store Settings button...
Documentation notes created by users C:\Users\VideoRay\AppData\Local\VideoRay\ Configuration data files * C:\VideoRay\ Root of system build sets C:\VideoRay\Installs\ Software installation sets The default username is VideoRay. * Modification of files in these folders without proper training is not recommended and may result in system instability.
Independent Conductors) in the tether, and the software "talked" directly to the mobile station. This meant that other devices that require the APIC could not be used simultaneously with ShipHull. In the Pro 4, the mobile station can be connected to the ROV communications bus rather than the APIC (see below for hardware configuration details), and VideoRay cockpit can pass the data from the mobile station to the Shiphull software using a pair of virtual COM ports.
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SDK (Software Developer's Kit) Accessory developers, programmers and "Do-it-your-selfers" will be able to exploit the capabilities of the virtual COM ports and PAM easily through the VideoRay Cockpit SDK. See the section of the Customization Guide for more information. Additional information about the SDK can also be found online at:...
This Operations Guide is provided to go beyond the Equipment and VideoRay Cockpit Guides to describe not just how the Pro 4 works, but how to work with the Pro 4. There are numerous topics and tips that are outside of the scope of conventional system documentation that focuses on the hardware and software.
Project Management While the differences between conducting a recreational dive, an inspection of an offshore well riser, and a drowning victim recovery are quite dramatic, each of these dive missions usually consist of the following phases: Establish the need, objectives and acceptable outcomes of the mission Plan the mission Prepare for the mission Execute the mission...
Mission Planning Once the basic objectives for an ROV mission have been established, there are several additional, and critical, requirements that need to be identified before rushing off to the dive site. Each of these additional requirements can be defined by developing a list of questions and thinking through the answers. Some of the answers may lead to more questions.
VideoRay Power Requirements The VideoRay Pro 4 operates on 100-240 Volts AC, 50,60 Hz. This can be provided from the land-based grid, a generator, or a battery with an inverter. See the...
The ROV Team, Their Roles and Responsibilities While one person can operate a VideoRay, having multiple people participate can be valuable or may even be required in some situations. The following roles and responsibilities are suggested to assist in developing an efficient and effective ROV team.
Project Completion On-site, the system should be cleaned as best as possible and stowed for transport. Be careful when closing lids to avoid pinching any cables or damaging the video display components of the computer or the control panel. Upon return to the home base, other tasks that should be considered before stowing the equipment include: Clean and inspect the equipment.
Tether Management Tether management can have a significant affect on the ability to pilot the ROV and achieve the objectives of the mission. Tether Management includes selecting the appropriate type of tether and managing the deployment and retrieval of it during operations. Choosing the right tether and managing it can have a very significant impact on the outcome of an ROV dive.
The following suggestions will help you advance your piloting skills. Use a light touch on the controls. The VideoRay is very agile and if you apply too much control input, you will tend to over steer or over shoot your objectives. This will often require reverse control input to compensate, which is inefficient.
Auto Depth Indicator. See the Depth Gauge section in the VideoRay Cockpit Guide for information about the Depth Gauge. Using Auto Depth to Hover To hover at the current depth, center the depth control knob...
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Disengaging Auto Depth While the depth control knob is rotated from its centered position, Auto Depth will temporarily suspend itself until the depth control knob is centered again. The Auto Depth indicator will change from green to black and display the word "Manual"...
ROV will automatically respond by applying horizontal thrust until the heading of the ROV matches the heading indicated by the Auto Heading Indicator. See the Compass section in the VideoRay Cockpit Guide for information about the Compass. Using Auto Heading to Hold a Heading To hold the current Heading, center the joystick...
Disengaging Auto Heading While the joystick is displaced laterally from its center position, Auto Heading will temporarily suspend itself until the joystick is centered again. The Auto Heading indicator will change from green to gray and display the word "Manual" to indicate that the heading is being controlled manually. To disengage Auto Heading completely, click on the Auto Heading Indicator.
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Piloting in Low Visibility When piloting in low visibility, there are several techniques that can be used to help you navigate to your objective or find and observe your target. Rather than navigate underwater to the target, navigate on the surface to a point above the target and try to drop down on the target.
Piloting in Current Working in current presents challenges that you may not be able to overcome if the current is too strong, but there are several strategies that you can apply depending upon the situation. Current can be consistent throughout depth, or there may be wind driven current on the surface, and tidal or other currents below. This will of course complicate the situation, but there are techniques to try before giving up.
Piloting in Deep Water Working in deep water presents its own set of challenges. For long tether runs, use negative tether because it can transmit more power and has minimal drag. A short section of performance or neutral tether should still be used at the ROV unless the tether can always be held above the ROV.
You can record snapshots and video. The count of snapshots and videos is displayed in the video window's title bar at the top. These numbers are for the current session and reset each time you start VideoRay Cockpit. You can edit and produce video files or DVDs. The following sections provide more information on each of these steps.
Snapshots can be captured while video recording is active. Video snapshots are saved in .JPG format and stored in the folder, which can be found in VideoRay\Imagery\ the computer account user's documents folder (Documents\ for Windows 7, or...
Snapshots can also be captured while video recording is active. Video recordings are saved in Windows .WMV (Windows Media Video) format and stored in the folder, which can be found in the computer account user's documents folder VideoRay\Imagery\ (Documents\ for Windows 7, or for Windows XP).
Video Editing The Pro 4 includes a limited edition version of CyberLink's Power Director. This program provides a full suite of video production tools including capture, edit, produce and create deliverables (CDs or DVDs). Some of the advanced features are disabled, because it is a limited edition, but the software can be upgraded online to enable all of its features in including picture-in-picture and other advanced capabilities.
Video Production The Pro 4 includes a limited edition version of CyberLink's Power Director. This program provides a full suite of video production tools including capture, edit, produce and create deliverables (CDs or DVDs). Some of the advanced features are disabled, because it is a limited edition, but the software can be upgraded online to enable all of its features in including picture-in-picture and other advanced capabilities.
Maintenance Guide Users are encouraged to become familiar with the basic routine maintenance procedures and this documentation will provide the necessary information. For advanced diagnostics and repairs, VideoRay recommends users contact a VideoRay Factory Authorized Service Center for assistance or training.
Care and Handling Do not abuse the VideoRay and be careful not to damage the system's components through normal use. For example, avoid letting the tether connectors come in contact with the ground where dirt damage the contacts. Cleaning VideoRay systems should always be cleaned after use.
Emergency Situations Flooded ROV In the event of a flooded ROV, follow these steps to provide the best chance of salvaging the internal components. Turn the power Off. Recover the ROV from the water. Remove the main domes, light domes and thruster cones (remove the propellers and thruster nozzles to remove the thruster cones).
O-ring or the seat may result. O-ring Lubrication - VideoRay recommends the use of pure silicone spray or the O-ring lube kit that comes in the standard tool kit. Other lubricants can lead to deterioration and failure of the O-rings and components. Do not use...
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Do not use cleaners that contain alcohol or other solvents. Solvents can make the dome brittle. Maintenance Tools Required VideoRay is designed with ease of maintenance in mind, and only a few tools are required to service the system. In fact, many maintenance procedures, such as changing light modules can be done without tools. VideoRay also includes a small tool and spares kit with each system delivered that contains most of the required tools.
Changing a Propeller and Horizontal Thruster Nozzle The Pro 4 propellers are held on smooth shafts using a collet similar to the ones used to hold drill bits. Also note that the Pro 4 uses counter rotating propellers and a smaller diameter propeller for the vertical thruster. VideoRay recommends that you only remove one propeller at a time to avoid using the wrong propeller for that location.
Changing a Thruster Cartridge Seal View example cartridge seals. Cartridge seals are universal and fit on any shaft. Replacing a cartridge seal requires removing the propeller. To remove a cartridge seal, first remove the propeller following the instructions. Next, grasp the cartridge seal and slide it off of the shaft. You may need to twist it a little to remove it. To install a cartridge seal, make sure the O-ring and thruster tube are clean.
Cartridge Seals Example Cartridge Seals New cartridge seal. Cartridge seal with an acceptable bubble - this seal is okay to use. Nearly empty cartridge seal - this seal should have been replaced when the oil level reached 1/2 of the original volume. Cartridge seals like this should not be used.
Changing a Light Dome or Light Module To remove a light dome, unscrew the light dome from the thruster. To install a light dome, make sure the O-ring is clean and not damaged. Lubricate the O-ring. The thread pitch is small compared to the diameter of the light dome and it is easy to cross thread the light dome.
Changing a Main Dome The main domes are interchangeable from front to rear. When working on the main domes, the ROV skid needs to be removed. It also helps to remove the float block and horizontal thruster nozzles. To remove a main dome, first float block and horizontal thruster nozzles. Next, remove the ROV skid by removing the four screws at the bottom of the main dome retaining ring at the front (2 screws) and the back (2 screws).
One step at a time - Be logical and make each test provide results you can use to narrow down the problem. The Pro 4 is a collection of relatively simple components, but when something goes wrong, it's easy to get overwhelmed. The following steps should be your first response to a general system malfunction, especially if the power and communications warning indicators in the ROV Health instrument are lit.
Diagnostics and Repair - Power When the ROV powers up, you will hear a series of tones, the lights will flash, and you should be able to see some internal LEDs light up. If none of these occur a power problem is possible. Power problems can occur on the AC side or DC side.
Diagnostics and Repair - Communications Communications problems can result in loss of control of the ROV. Communications in the Pro 4 occurs at several levels. The computer has to communicate with the control panel via the USB cable. First verify that the cable is connected.
ROV subsystem, poorly adjusted buoyancy, or a physical problem like a stuck tether or fouled propeller. VideoRay Cockpit instruments can confirm that a hand controller input is being received. If the instrument does not indicate a controller input, such as the camera indicator does not move when you press the camera tilt button, then check to make sure the hand controller is plugged in.
The digital circuit includes a USB video capture device, which is connected to a USB hub within the control panel and then to a computer via a USB cable. Within the computer, VideoRay Cockpit software can display the video, in real time with or without video overlay text or graphics. If a second monitor is attached to the computer, the video window can be displayed on either or both display devices.
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If video noise seems to be a problem, it could be local interference, a mismatched ground, or a poor connection somewhere in the system. If you are operating off a local power source such as a generator, make sure the ground is the same as the water in which the ROV is being used.
Accessories Guide The Accessories Guide provides information about using accessories with the VideoRay Pro 4 and includes an overview section about how accessories are integrated with VideoRay hardware and VideoRay Cockpit software, and basic operating instructions for each accessory. The operating instructions in the following sections are brief...
VideoRay tether includes an APIC (Auxiliary Pair of Independent Conductors) that can be used to communicate with accessories. The Pro 4 ROV has a 9 pin accessory port that includes access to the APIC as well as to power, and the ROV communications and video buses. The Control panel likewise has an AUX port for topside access to the APIC.
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sonar and water quality sensors. Examples of the types of integration and a few sample devices are listed below: Power Only Transponders for Desert Star Pilot and Seafloor and Tritech Micron Nav Power and ROV Communications Bus Manipulator and Cutter Power and the APIC Sonar The Smart Tether is a unique example of integration.
Accessory Categories Numerous accessories can be used with the Pro 4 to extend its capabilities and range of performance. These accessories allow the Pro 4 to support a wider variety of applications. This section provides an overview of what accessory equipment is available. For current information, including the latest additions, visit www.VideoRay.com.
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ROV allowing a direct interface between VideoRay Cockpit software and the accessory. Most accessories, with the exception of the manipulator and cutter, use a stackable pass through connector that allows multiple accessories to be connected in parallel.
VideoRay. Obviously, the water visibility has to be quite good to be able to use the high definition camera effectively. ROVs are often operated in water conditions with limited visibility. Several accessories have been designed and engineered to support this need.
LYYN Hawk Operating Tips Early models of the Pro 4 control panel included a membrane keypad to control the LYYN functions. VideoRay Cockpit software can now be used to control the LYYN functions. See the LYYN documentation for information about using the keypad and the section in the...
The selection of which camera is active (main or external) is accomplished by pressing the camera select button on the hand controller or the camera select button on the camera instrument. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
The ROV accessory port should be sealed with either a dummy plug or the manipulator or cutter. Operation The HD camera has a separate document describing it's use. Available for hire only at this time. Contact VideoRay for more information.
Accessories - Intervention While Micro-ROVs like the Pro 4 do not have the intervention capabilities of work class ROVs, the Pro 4 does support several mechanical devices including a manipulator, cutter and a ship hull inspection stabilizer that extend the range of capabilities of the system beyond the realm of video only inspection class vehicles.
Install the 9 Pin connector from the Manipulator into the Accessory Port. Operation Use the buttons on the hand controller to open or close the manipulator. manipulator instrument will indicate the status of the manipulator activity. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
Install the 9 Pin connector from the Cutter into the Accessory Port. Operation Use the buttons on the hand controller to open or close the cutter. manipulator instrument will indicate the status of the cutter activity. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
Propulsion Propulsion accessories are used to assist with piloting movement of the ROV, and include the VideoRay Lateral Thruster and the VideoRay Ship Hull Inspection Stabilizer.
These settings can be saved using the Custom button on the Controller Sensitivity instrument. See the Controller Sensitivity section for more information about setting and saving custom controller settings. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
To reset the lateral thruster, click on the Device Communications Reset button. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
When long range vision is needed in water with low visibility, sonar can be used to "see" beyond the range of visibility. Sonar stands for SOund NAvigation and Ranging and uses sound echos to create an image of the surrounding environment. VideoRay supports the Tritech...
BlueView Technologies ProViewer Operating Tips This section describes the basic set up procedures for using the BlueView ProViewer with a VideoRay Pro 4. See the BlueView ProViewer User Manual for additional information. Hardware Set Up Hardware setup for the BlueView ProViewer requires the installation of the sonar on the ROV, and configuring the control panel.
The BlueView Pole Mount cable should be connected to the connector at the rear of the control panel. Operation To start the BlueView ProViewer software, click on the BlueView ProViewer button on the VideoRay Cockpit control bar. Follow the instructions in the BlueView ProViewer User Manual for operating instructions about the sonar and pole mount features.
Tritech International Gemini Operating Tips This section describes the basic set up procedures for using the Tritech Gemini sonar with a VideoRay Pro 4. See the Tritech Gemini User Manual for additional information. Hardware Set Up Hardware setup for the Tritech Gemini requires the installation of the sonar on the ROV, and configuring the control panel.
Tritech International SeaSprite Operating Tips This section describes the basic set up procedures for using the Tritech SeaSprite sonar with a VideoRay Pro 4. See the Tritech SeaSprite User Manual for additional information. Hardware Set Up Hardware setup for the Tritech SeaSprite requires the installation of the sonar on the ROV, and configuring the control panel.
Underwater searches and surveys often require that the precise position of the ROV be known so that observations can be geo-referenced or the position can be relocated on a future. VideoRay supports several acoustic and tether based position tracking systems from...
Deploy the baseline transponder stations in the water and record the location of each station. Operation Run the software and enter the configuration, including the location of the transponders. Select "Start Tracking" from the menu. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
Deploy the baseline transponder stations in the water and record the location of each station. Operation Run the software and enter the configuration, including the location of the transponders. Select "Start Tracking" from the menu. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
Deploy the baseline transponder stations in the water and record the location of each station. Operation Run the software and enter the configuration, including the location of the transponders. Select "Start Tracking" from the menu. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
KCF Technologies Smart Tether Operating Tips This section describes the basic set up procedures for using the KCF Smart Tether with a VideoRay Pro 4. See the KCF Smart Tether User Manual for additional information. Hardware Set Up Connect the Smart Tether the same way you would connect a standard tether. If you are using more than one tether, connect the Smart Tether closest to the ROV.
Deploy the baseline transponder station in the water making sure to align the orientation of the reference mark with North. Operation Run the software and select "Start Tracking" from the menu. This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
The Tritech Micron Echo Sounder can be used as an altimeter to measure the height off of the seafloor, or for distance measurements to other distant subsea objects See the Tritech website or the instructions that came with the system for more information. Hardware Set Up Operation Available for hire only at this time. Contact VideoRay for more information.
Accessories - Sensors VideoRay supports a variety of sensors and measurement devices. These systems extend the range of capabilities of the Pro 4 to broaden its scope of applicability to a wide variety of applications in numerous industries.
The ROV accessory port should be sealed with either a dummy plug or the manipulator or cutter. Operation Follow the instructions that came with the Buckley's CP probe for obtaining readings This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
The ROV accessory port should be sealed with either a dummy plug or the manipulator or cutter. Operation Follow the instructions that came with the Turner Designs C3 Fluorometer for obtaining readings This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
VideoRay Laser Scaling Device Operating Tips The VideoRay Laser Scaling Device provides a pair of parallel beams that are set a fixed distance apart. Knowing the distance between the beams can be used to determine the size of objects that are illuminated by them.
The ROV accessory port should be sealed with either a dummy plug or the manipulator or cutter. Operation Follow the instructions that came with the Franatech METS Methane Sensor for obtaining readings This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
VideoRay Radiation Sensor Operating Tips Hardware Set Up Remove entire skid from the VideoRay ROV by removing the 4 Phillips head screws that go through the dome retainers and into the skid from the front and back. Fit the Radiation Detector to the dome retainers with the long probe end protruding to the front, and replace the 4 retaining screws removed in step 1.
The ROV accessory port should be sealed with either a dummy plug or the manipulator or cutter. Operation Follow the instructions that came with the Cygnus Instruments Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge for obtaining readings This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
The ROV accessory port should be sealed with either a dummy plug or the manipulator or cutter. Operation Follow the instructions that came with the YSI 600 XL Sonde for obtaining readings This equipment is optional and may not be included in all VideoRay Pro 4 configurations.
Accessories - Integration VideoRay's PAM and TINA devices are not accessories by themselves, but they allow accessory devices that would not otherwise be compatible with the Pro 4 to be integrated and allow tighter integration of several existing accessories.
PAM (Protocol Adapter / Multiplexer) Operating Tips The PAM device can be used to control accessories or adapt incompatible protocols to match a compatible protocol. PAMs can built into the accessory, or used as a intermediate connecting device between the accessory and the ROV.
TINA (Tether Interface Node Adapter) Operating Tips The TINA device can be used to connect an accessory directly to the tether for use without the ROV. The TINA is connected directly to the tether using the standard round 8 pin tether connector and the accessory is connected to the TINA using the standard rectangular 9 pin connector.
Customization Guide The Pro 4 has unprecedented customization capabilities based on using a conventional laptop computer as the core of the system's topside architecture. Many new features will be available through software updates. Future software versions are already on the drawing board to include user customizations to the interface and functionality.
My_Notes can be written in HTML or plain text. HTML allows for more flexible formatting and inclusion of images or links to other web pages. To add a My_Note, create an HTML or text file containing the note and save it in the VideoRay\My_Notes\ folder, which can be found in the computer account user's documents folder (Documents\ for Windows 7, or for Windows XP).
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the "my_notes_size_table.js" file for this page: window.custom_my_notes = 200; Note that ".html" in not included in the page name, and the line must end with a ";" Also, the optimum size required is dependent upon the size and aspect ratio of the browser window.
Creating New Checklists New checklists can also be created and all checklists can be processed using the included stand-alone checklist application without having to run VideoRay Cockpit. This allows you to create your own operational or equipment checklists. To create a new checklist, create a text file with the desired checklist items. For example, a sample remote...
If you want to change the button assignments, the XML configuration files need to be edited by hand. This is not something VideoRay encourages users to do until the graphical interface is complete, but if you have a need to modify the hand controller button mapping in the meantime, please contact VideoRay for assistance.
Custom Accessories Custom accessories can be added to VideoRay Pro 4 ROV. Accessories can take advantage of the following capabilities: Power Data Communications Independent Multiplexed Video Circuit For more information, see the Equipment Guide. When adding custom accessories, the following issues should be considered:...
Microsoft Visual Studio/C#, however the SDK can be used from any .NET language. The Embedded SDK, written in GNU C, can be used to develop firmware to run on directly VideoRay hardware. Currently two hardware platforms are supported, the Pro 4 and the PAM (Protocol Adapter and Multiplexer) module.
Override Mode Override mode provides a software interface for applications to send control commands to the ROV through VideoRay Cockpit instead of having to write low level code.
Upgrader's Guide to the VideoRay Pro 4 This section contains information about the latest version of the Pro 4 and VideoRay Cockpit software. It is divided into a section about the latest hardware and software changes in this release, and information for users of VideoRay Pro 3 who are upgrading to the VideoRay Pro 4 for the first time.
What's New Version 1.7.x.x Video and Audio Enhancements Resizeable video window Selectable video file format for recording Selectable video encoder Audio recording with muting New and Changed Instruments New Turns Indicator instrument Changes to Control Sensitivity instrument Accessory Integration LYYN Visibility Enhancement Laser Scaling Device Lateral Thruster PAM Support...
Pro 3 Upgrader's Guide to the Pro 4 The VideoRay Pro 4 is a comprehensive technological overhaul of the Pro 3 system. While the basic form factor and size of the ROV's hull have remain unchanged, practically all of the other components have been updated.
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Topics in this Section Pro 4 System Architecture Pro 4 Feature Updates Compatibility Issues between the Pro 3 and Pro 4...
ROVs around the world more than any other system, the Pro 4 capitalizes on the features that have withstood the tests of time and adds the latest technological breakthroughs.
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The SDK will also include a module to upgrade the embedded code in the ROV. Users will be able to keep their Pro 4 up-to-date with the latest versions of control code and add new features as they become available. The VideoRay Pro 4 will not only be the best ROV platform today, but well into the future.
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Summary The Pro 4 has taken the highly acclaimed and extremely reliable Pro 3 GTO to new levels of performance by overhauling and updating many of the key components while maintaining the basic structure and form factor of VideoRay ROVs. The new system architecture also allows a continuous stream of improvements from VideoRay and as new accessories and features are added and as the SDK is put to use by accessory vendors and research institutions.
Pro 4 Power and Thruster Technology The Pro 4 power supply has been upgraded from 48 Volts DC to 75 V DC, but still maintains the same low power consumption of the Pro 3 due to more efficient power circuitry. To support this increase safely, the Pro 4 incorporates a Line Insulation Monitor (LIM) protection circuit.
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5,700 lumens and LEDs with different color temperatures will be available in the future. The forward light reflectors have been engineered to distribute the light evenly throughout the camera tilt range, such that at 45 degrees vertically, the Pro 4 projects more light than other ROVs do straight ahead at the same distance.
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Pro 4 Depth Rating The Pro 4 depth rating has been increased to 305 meters (1000 feet) by using a stiffer hull, but the overall weight of the Pro 4 has been reduced when compared to the Pro 3 GTO.
The Pro 3 and Pro 4 lights are not interchangeable between these two systems even though the connectors are the same. Using a Pro 3 light bulb on a Pro 4 ROV, or a Pro 4 LED on a Pro 3 ROV may cause damage to the lights or the ROV.
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Run Time The run time of the Pro 3 is stored in the control panel. The run time of the Pro 4 is stored in the ROV. This provides a more accurate representation of the amount of hours of use of the ROV.