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Summary of Contents for Vemco Ascent AR2
- Page 1 A R / A R 2 U S E R G U I D E V E R S I O N 1 . 3 J U L Y 2 8 , 2 0 1 8 S T U D E N T N A M E Requires the use of the latest VUE software R O O M N U M B E R...
- Page 2 IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION At VEMCO, we make every effort to ensure all of our products are as safe as possible. However, some hazards are unavoidable when deploying equipment underwater. IMPORTANT Throughout this document, read all warnings and cautions before proceeding with next steps in procedures and using the product.
- Page 3 4. If a receiver or acoustic release shows any signs of internal pressure or breach, do NOT attempt to open it. Handle it very gently and store it in an isolated location, then call VEMCO Customer Support (see section for contact information).
- Page 4 Summary of Manual This manual is intended to provide VEMCO users with the information they require to use the ASCENT Acoustic Release (ASCENT-AR/AR2). VEMCO highly recommends that the user fully read the manual before using the equipment or the VUE software.
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Page 5: Table Of Contents
Table of Contents 1 Introduction ................ 1 System Overview ........................ 1 ASCENT-AR / ASCENT-AR2 Case..................2 2 Getting Started ..............4 Connect Battery ........................4 Testing ..........................5 2.2.1 In-Air Test ........................5 2.2.2 In-Water Test ......................6 3 VUE Communication .............. 7 Installing the VUE software .................... - Page 6 I think the case might be pressurized ................ 45 9 Appendices ................ 47 Cleaning Instructions ......................47 Contact Information ......................47 ASCENT-AR Specifications ....................48 Ascent AR2 Specifications ....................49 Warranty and Disclaimer ....................50 Glossary ........................... 51 Index ..........................52...
- Page 7 WARNING If the ASCENT-AR/AR2 is not used in the manner specified in this manual, then the manufacturer’s warranty protection may be voided. © (2018) AMIRIX Systems Inc. All rights reserved. The information contained herein includes information which is confidential and proprietary to AMIRIX Systems Inc. and may not be used or disclosed without prior written consent of AMIRIX Systems Inc.
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Page 8: Introduction
The release mechanism is a mooring lug that is controlled by a DC motor using a titanium shaft. The exterior of the mooring lug shaft is copper to reduce bio- fouling. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 9: Ascent-Ar / Ascent-Ar2 Case
Retaining O-ring: Holds the Retaining Pin in place. Mooring Lug: This hole is used to secure the release to its mooring. The mooring lug is left behind when the acoustic release occurs. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... - Page 10 -5°C to +40 °C; Water must not freeze. Operating temperature Maximum Depth 500 meters (730 psi) Latest VEMCO User Environment (VUE) software Software In air: Bluetooth communication with VUE software Communication In water: Acoustic communication with a VR100-200 using a transponding hydrophone VEMCO –...
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Page 11: Getting Started
Watch for a long green light to indicate the self-tests release. were successful. If you see the long red light followed by more flashes, then contact VEMCO for instructions. STEP 3 Close the release case by following the instructions in section 5.1.4... -
Page 12: Testing
“Opening” during this phase. Enter the code: 00000 Find more transponding features in the Activate VR100 user manual addendum. Reset the mooring lug for another acoustic release (see section 4.4 VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 13: In-Water Test
In-water tests are often performed to establish an ideal range for the release in the environment in which they are moored. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July... -
Page 14: Vue Communication
Bluetooth devices are created equally or work reliably. To ensure successful in water, the ASCENT-AR must operation with the VEMCO ASCENT-AR, we provide our users with a communicate with the Bluetooth Bluetooth USB adapter in the ASCENT-AR Communications Package that USB adapter through air we are confident will provide reliable functionality. -
Page 15: Connecting With Bluetooth
2. Observe the Bluetooth icon at the bottom of the window. In most cases, it will look like the Bluetooth icon shown at right, indicating that you’re ready to communicate with VEMCO Bluetooth equipment, like an ASCENT-AR. If VUE is not able to perform Bluetooth red “X”... -
Page 16: Activate Wireless Feature
Bluetooth Activator and should be kept away from any magnetically sensitive materials. An orange float is attached to the Bluetooth Activator for easier handling and locating of the activator. This activator functions with other VEMCO receivers that use a Bluetooth Activator, such as the VR2W and the VR4-UWM. -
Page 17: Establish Bluetooth Communication
ASCENT then activate communication (section 3.3) and click “Device Scan” on the software’s Home tab. Wait while the software searches for devices. All Bluetooth® activated VEMCO release within communication range will be displayed when a Device Scan is performed. STEP 2... -
Page 18: The Receiver Tab
Communication can occur with any ASCENT-AR with Bluetooth® wireless technology activated within a 10 meter range (typical range in air). VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 19: Select Logging Options
Ambient noise in the area can be recorded and viewed in VUE. This information may be helpful in comparing deployment locations and determining if noise may be affecting tag detections. Return to default settings VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 20: Acoustic Release In Vue
Click the gear shaped icon in the VUE ribbon and select Acoustic Release. Remember: The mooring lug must be re-armed before another release can occur. Instructions are found in section 4.4. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 21: Logging Mode
UTC offset are correct, then click the “OK” button to continue. CAUTION: It is vital that the PC clock be correctly set to your local time, including time zone, before the AR is initialized. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... - Page 22 Mode and begin the study. How do I know the ASCENT-AR is logging? Watch the red Status Light. Two quick, bright red flashes every 5 seconds indicate the ASCENT-AR is in Logging Mode. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018...
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Page 23: Offload Data
VUE database or not. If a database is not open when data is offloaded, then the data will automatically be saved in the file format(s) and directory selected in the Options window. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 24: Disconnect Communication With Release
ASCENT-AR and VUE software. A window will appear to confirm that you want to close the ASCENT-AR View window. When the communication is disconnected, the ASCENT-AR resumes recording with the last study that was initialized. Ending communication does not re-initialize the release. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 25: Deployment
Always check the tilt of the release after it is deployed to verify it is vertical with the hydrophone pointing up (0-11°). This is done using a VR100-200 and a transponding hydrophone. Details are found in the VR100 Acoustic Communication manual. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 26: Biofouling
A minimum rope size of 3/8" diameter nylon rope is suggested. Pass a shackle through the mooring lug and use the 3/8” diameter (minimum) rope through the shackle. 3/8" diameter nylon rope (Suggested minimum) VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 27: Acoustic Release
Depth: 0m “Resend”) allows you to view the progress to Resend the surface. If you need to release the mooring lug while in Bluetooth communication, see section Error! eference source not found. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 28: Re-Arming Acoustic Release
4.4 Re-arming Acoustic Release The mooring lug in the end of the ASCENT-AR must be installed before the ASCENT-AR is deployed. Mooring lug replacements are available from VEMCO. Follow the steps below to install a mooring lug in an ASCENT-AR:... - Page 29 WARNING The pin prevents the lug from turning during DO NOT grease the release. Failure to install this pin would retaining O-ring. result in the lug not releasing. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018...
- Page 30 Push the Retaining O-ring over the edge of the case so it sits in the groove. Check the circumference of the case to verify the O-ring is securely in the groove. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018...
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Page 31: Maintenance
It is vitally important that the electronics inside the release case do not come in contact with any water or the release will be damaged. For this reason, VEMCO recommends the be opened in a controlled environment and not in the field or on the deck of a ASCENT-AR boat. - Page 32 8.2.1 for tips on thread care. WARNING The internal casing surrounding the electronics is not waterproof. Water, even condensation from a humid environment, will enter the case and damage the electronics. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018...
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Page 33: Disconnecting And Removing Battery
STEP 3 Grip one end of the battery and lift it out of the battery compartment (VR2AR shown). Do not disconnect the AA battery. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 34: Install Battery
(i.e. as Study had been initialized; see section 3.7) when the battery was disconnected, then it will immediately return to logging sensor data after the battery has been replaced. Settings are not lost when the power is disconnected. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 35: Close The Ascent-Ar Case
We recommend that you replace the desiccant pack with each deployment and with each battery replacement cycle. More information on the availability and usage of these packs is located on our website, www.vemco.com. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July... - Page 36 Remove the steel rod from the case. ASCENT-AR NOTE: The Float attachment bracket may rotate on the case. WARNING Do not over-tighten the case pieces together or they may be damaged. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018...
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Page 37: Resetting The Battery Usage Indicator
To reset the BUI, click Reset. The reset dialog box disappears, and the release and VUE software are now synchronized with a new date for battery replacement. Your release is now ready for use. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 38: O-Ring Care
Grab the exposed O-ring and pull it away from the end cap, so it moves along the body of the release. Repeat Steps 1 -3 for the other O-ring. Clean any O-ring grease on the internal casing. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 39: Clean O-Ring Surfaces
If there is any question about the condition of an O-ring, we recommend it be replaced rather than risk damage to the release and therefore your data. O-rings can be purchased from VEMCO or locally. The replacement O-rings must be PARKER #2-143 O-RING, 70 Bn NITRILE. -
Page 40: Install O-Ring
9.3. It is strongly suggested that the ASCENT-AR not be initialized prior to storage (Do not erase data) and a backup of all offloaded data is made immediately. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 41: Additional Information
a long light to indicate there was a problem. If you see the long light followed by more flashes, then contact VEMCO for instructions. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 42: Set Local Options
“Yes” from the list. Be sure to select “OK” to apply the changes. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 43: Batteries
D/DD-cell battery and store it separately. The used battery may be marked with the amount of life used for future reference or use. The smaller AA battery should not be disconnected or removed. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July... -
Page 44: Case External Dimensions
The dimensions of the ASCENT-AR/ASCENT-AR2 cases can be useful when designing a mooring plan or mooring equipment. The dimensions, in inches, of the cases are shown in the drawing below. ASCENT-AR 6.5.1 VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 45: Ascent-Ar2
ASCENT-AR2 6.5.2 VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 46: Update Firmware
If you answered “Yes” to both of these questions, then click the “Yes” button and continue with these instructions. STEP 2 Assuming all data has been offloaded from the ASCENT and is safely stored on your PC, click “OK” to acknowledge this warning and continue. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... - Page 47 Click the “Open” button to continue. The rest of the procedure matches the instructions found in Steps 2 – 5 in the automated notification section. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018...
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Page 48: Common Questions
All hidden dialogs are restored automatically if one week elapses without VUE being opened. NOTE: The screenshot shown at right displays the “VR2AR” receiver name, but the pop-up window are the same for the ASCENT products. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 49: How Do I Open The Options Window
Clear a failed Release Test by securely closing the case and then click “Retest” while the ASCENT-AR is in communication with VUE. The Release Test should change to “Passed”. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 50: Ascent-Ar Related Questions
The ASCENT-AR must be orientated with the hydrophone looking upwards for communication with the VR100-200. Also, releases are commonly moored closer to the seafloor than the surface to minimize the effect of surface noise and conditions. VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 51: Troubleshooting
Bluetooth connection is functioning correctly, try replacing the DD-cell battery in the ASCENT-AR with a new battery. If you are still unable to communicate with the unit, please contact VEMCO to receive RMA information and send the unit back to VEMCO for assessment/repair. -
Page 52: Ascent-Ar Case Related Troubleshooting
If water is still in the case after the air and/or water have finished leaking from the case, then attempt to open the case with the steel rod kit. If it will open, do so very slowly to VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July... - Page 53 If the case will not open using the steel rods, then it is under a greater pressure than will allow the case to open. Contact VEMCO for further instructions. When the pressure has been released from the ASCENT-AR case, carefully unscrew the end-cap from the outer cylinder (section 5.1.1).
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Page 54: Appendices
LED window or the seal surfaces. 9.2 Contact Information VEMCO 20 Angus Morton Drive Bedford, Nova Scotia Canada B4B 0L9 Phone: +1-902-450-1700 Fax: +1-902-450-1704 www.vemco.com Web Site: VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018... -
Page 55: Ascent-Ar Specifications
Industry Canada ID: IC-1520A-LMX9838 12246A-BM78SPPS5M2 Mooring / Attachment 2 x 14 mm mooring holes (mooring bracket, top),1 x 19 mm (release lug, bottom) Latest VEMCO User Environment (VUE) software Software Maximum test load 1000 lbs Max. safe working load* 250 lbs... -
Page 56: Ascent Ar2 Specifications
Industry Canada ID: IC-1520A-LMX9838 12246A-BM78SPPS5M2 Mooring / Attachment 2 x 14 mm mooring holes (mooring bracket, top),1 x 19 mm (release lug, bottom) Latest VEMCO User Environment (VUE) software Software Maximum test load 1000 lbs Max. safe working load* 250 lbs... -
Page 57: Warranty And Disclaimer
VEMCO’s liability, and the Buyer’s exclusive remedy under this warranty, as to a defect in material or workmanship, is limited to the repair of such defect in the accessory, equipment or part in which the defect appears or, at VEMCO’s option, to the replacement of such accessory, equipment or part with a similar item free from defect. As to any item repaired by VEMCO or furnished as a replacement by VEMCO, VEMCO’s liability and the Buyer’s exclusive remedy to the repair or replacement of such item for any further defect in material or workmanship,... -
Page 58: Glossary
SDSs are usually written by the manufacturer or supplier of the product. Offloading: Retrieving data from a VEMCO release and storing it in a VRL file. Safe Working Load (SWL): Sometimes stated as the Normal Working Load (NWL), is the maximum safe force that a piece of lifting equipment, lifting device or accessory can exert to lift, suspend, or lower, a given mass without fear of breaking. -
Page 59: Index
Local options, 40 Firmware Update, 44 Offload data, 21 Grease Start a Study, 19 O-rings, 37 Study Configuration, 20 Re-arming mooring lug, 27 Suppressed pop-up queries, 40 Initialize Study, 19 Transceiver Tab, 16 VEMCO – ASCENT–AR / AR2 Manual 28 July 2018...
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