Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Mobile Sensor Platform Operating Instructions Table of Contents General Information Section P. 2 P. 4 P. 5 P. 12 Warranty and Safety Instrument—installation and set-up File Management—data downloading and transfer GPS trouble-shooting Soil EC Surveyor P. P. P. P. 13 15 18 24 Installation and set-up Field Operations Maintenance and Lubrication Troubleshooting pH Manager P. 25 P. 28 Installation and set-up Field Operations p. 29 Adjusting sampling depth p.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 VERIS Mobile Sensor Platform (MSP) (Software Version MSP 1.02e) Warranty Veris Technologies warrants this product to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of delivery to the purchaser. Veris Technologies will repair or replace any product returned to Salina, Kansas, which appears upon inspection to be defective in materials or workmanship.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Important! Read the following SAFETY PROCEDURES before operating the Veris MSP: • Read and understand all instructions on safety decals • Before filling tank with gasoline, let engine cool. Gas vapors can ignite and an explosion can occur. • Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin causing serious injury. Avoid the hazard by relieving pressure before disconnecting hydraulic lines.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Instrument Installation and Set-up The Veris Instrument Kit includes the following items: Protective case EC and pH Instrument Mounting Bracket Power Cable Trouble-shooting items: Included with EC module: EC signal test load EC continuity test box Included with pH module: pH simulator fuse kit Keep these along with the Operating Instructions with the unit whenever collecting data.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 magneto, consider powering the Veris instrument with a 12-volt battery or converting to an alternator system. The Veris MSP is shipped with an accessory power plug. If an alternative connection is desired, make sure that the unit is properly connected to a power connection that is not controlled by the ignition switch. If connecting directly to the battery, we suggest a 3 amp. in-line fuse is installed between the battery and the instrument.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Insert a disk, then press any key. The display will read “Working”, which means the system is checking out your disk to see if you have enough disk space to accept the file. If you do not have enough space, it will ask you to insert a different disk.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 time allowed; 2. The readings were outside of a reasonable pH range (less than 3.5 or greater than 9.5); or 3. There was more than a 0.5 pH difference between the electrodes. Downloading/deleting old files This section deals with how to download and delete old files. Veris Technologies recommends that you do not delete any files until they have been saved to a hard disk drive and properly backed up.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 If you choose to quit, the display will read: Transferring files via serial port Use this option to serially transfer the files from the instrument to a PC or laptop as an alternative to using floppy disks. 1) PC setup: Connect the instrument’s serial port labeled OUTPUT to a PC’s serial port with a null modem serial cable. Open up a new HyperTerminal session on the PC.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Use the following settings: 19200 Baud, 8 data bits, parity = none, 1 stop bit, flow control = none. Select File from the drop-down menus; select the Properties button. Click the Settings tab at the top of the window that appears: Click on the ASCII Setup button at the bottom of the window.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Make sure the box beside “Append line feeds to incoming line ends” is checked. Click OK to close the ASCII Setup box, then OK to close the properties box. Select the File drop down menu again, and click on save. 2) Instrument setup: At the display: This is the second window you will see after powering up the unit if the system has any old files in it. Select option 1. Select #2 for transferring files through the serial port.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Back on the PC, select the Transfer drop down menu, then Capture Text: A window will come up asking what the captured file will be named and where it will be stored. Use the Veris file name and number from the instrument’s screen. Make note of where the file is being stored or change it to the appropriate folder. Click the start button once you have named the file: On the instrument, press 1 to start the transfer.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 the steps above to try to transfer the file again. When the text stops scrolling and the instrument indicates that the transfer is finished, select the Transfer drop down menu, click on Capture Text, and click Stop. This ends the file capture for that particular file. Hit any key on the instrument to continue. If there are other files on the instrument for the file number, the instrument will continue to the next file.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 $GPGGA,191528.00,3851.0333,N,09737.2342,W,2,08,1.3,372.7,M,27.3,M,10.0,0100*69 $GPGSA,A,3,09,23,21,17,08,01,03,29,,,,,2.6,1.3,2.3*39 $GPRMC,191528.00,A,3851.0333,N,09737.2342,W,0.1,0.0,090998,6.3,E*48 If GPS data doesn’t appear, recheck the port and configuration settings to make sure they are correct.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 12 V Power leads -raise-lower -external control module pH signal cable (if equipped) EC signal cable If unit is equipped with hydraulic power pack, insert hydraulic ends into quick-couplers, being careful to insert the end marked “P” into the pressure or oil output coupler, and the end marked “T” into the tank or return line coupler.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 machine (Fig. 3.1). Maintain the hydraulic fluid within 1/2 inch of the upper (solid black) line on the glass. Remove the threaded plug from the filler neck (Fig 3.1) to add fluid. hydraulic oil filler plug hydraulic oil sight glass • Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin causing serious injury. Avoid the hazard by relieving pressure before disconnecting hydraulic lines. Use a piece of paper or card-board, NOT BODY PARTS, to check for suspected leaks.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 operate implement parallel to soil adjust toplink to level Field Condition Field should be in a uniform state. Mapping after intensive primary tillage is not recommended. The soil must have a minimum of 10% available water, and cannot be frozen. If rocky conditions exist, you may wish to consider the optional coulter rock guard kit , PN 15169. Speed Proper field operating speed depends on field conditions.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 • Pinch point hazard: to prevent injury, stand clear when raising or lowering any part of the Veris MSP. Disengage automatic cycling function before working around unit. • Install all transport locks before transporting or working underneath. set screws and jam nuts Collecting Soil EC Data If unit is equipped with pH Module, and you are not collecting pH data, remove sampler shank and raise row cleaner and covering disks. Turn on Veris instrument.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Regardless of the type of data selected in the previous menu, the computer will show the name of the map file it is creating, in case you want to record it along with any other information about the field. Press any key to begin new map file (after starting the file, press the 4 key to stop the file). Pressing any key brings you one of the following Data Acquisition screens below: E.C. only (option 1): E.C.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 no continuity grounded bolt coulter terminal 2) Signal Continuity – To properly measure conductivity, good electrical signal continuity must be present from the coulter electrode to the instrument. The Implement Test Box (Part No. 10759) allows you to quickly check this. Use the following method: a) Connect the signal cable to the terminal on the test box.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 5) If the readings vary significantly (more than one whole number) contact our service department. 6) Once the test is complete, remove the test load and reinstall the implement signal cable. Test Load Note: It is advisable to conduct this test as a routine check to ensure that you are obtaining reliable EC data. ADJUSTMENTS Commutators-- The spring-loaded commutators are located in the center of each coulter electrode hub cap.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 set screw cap commutator spindle Note: If you are still unable to obtain favorable resistance readings, check for excessive corrosion at the coulter blade mounting bolts, or the terminal located near the coulter pivot. It may be necessary to grind the spindle end smooth, if a dimple has developed. MAINTENACE: LUBRICATION Rockshaft pivot points – Each pivot (located at the left and right) contains an upper and lower grease zerk.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 grease zerks Electrode coulters Pivot -- In all but the most extremely rocky conditions, the coulter electrodes should not flex in the field, thus minimal movement will be realized at the pivot. 80-hour intervals should be sufficient. grease zerk Hubs -- Use good quality wheel bearing or lithium grease for lubrication, but we suggest that you grease the hubs sparingly.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 turn, so that the hub turns freely, without endplay. Install cotter pin, and reinstall hub cap. Coulter electrode hubs -- The coulter electrode hubs operate in a significantly harsh environment, and annual inspection is of utmost importance. The double-lip seals are designed to keep grease in, and contaminates out, but they are the cause of practically all hub failures. It is advisable to disassemble, clean, repack, and re-install annually.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 EC MODULE TROUBLESHOOTING Map doesn’t match known or expected soil types -1. Check electrical continuity using Implement Test Box as discussed above. 2. Check isolation of coulter electrodes 3. Remove any buildup of moist soil on toolbar 4. Check blade bolt tightness and corrosion 5. Map additional fields to see if similar condition results 6.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 pH Manager Installation and Set-up If the unit has been crated and delivered via closed-van commercial freight, the tongue (if equipped) may need to be installed prior to use. Before doing so, please take precautions to ensure that the framework is properly supported to ensure safety. Remove bands that attach tongue assembly to shipping pallet.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Before filling tank with gasoline, let engine cool. Gas vapors can ignite and an explosion can occur. Fill gasoline engine and check engine and hydraulic oil levels. Checking the hydraulic fluid level is easy thanks to a sight glass on the hydraulic reservoir. The sight glass is located on the front of the reservoir. Maintain the hydraulic fluid within 1/2 (1.25 cm) inch of the upper (solid black) line on the glass.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 ball valve: closed open Connecting cables to External controller as shown below: Remove pH electrodes from individual storage containers and fill soaker solution container with soaker solution. Install soaker solution container on electrode holder. Loosen plastic set screws on electrode holder and insert pH electrodes into electrode holder. Re-tighten set screws finger tight and lock in place with lock nuts. Do not overtighten set screws or electrode damage may occur.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Field Operations Tools required for Field Operation adjustments -3/16” allen wrench -adjustable wrench: min. 10” (25 cm) length -3/4” socket and wrench -9/16” socket or wrench -15/16” wrench Starting Engine Turn fuel valve to On position by sliding it to the far right. Move the choke lever to the far left Closed position, if engine is cold. Slide the throttle lever slightly to the left. Turn the engine switch to the on position. Turn key on.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 2. Put external controller in Manual mode and raise and lower sampler assembly. Keep appendages clear of pinch points. 3. Turn wash system on. If water does not flow from jets within 10 seconds, disconnect quick couplers to help pumps prime. If water doesn’t flow from pump outlet after 10 seconds, see Trouble-shooting section.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 operate implement parallel to soil 2. Once unit is level, lower sampling mechanism completely, drive forward 10-20’ (3-6 m) to create soil core. To measure depth of soil core being collected, brush away soil from cutting shoe. Measure from soil surface to top of cutting shoe. This is the depth of sampling. To increase sampling depth, remove cylinder stops; to decrease sampling depth, add stops. Re-leveling unit with adjustable toplink may be required.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Other Field Adjustments Once EC coulter depth and sampling depth are satisfactory, adjust other components in this sequence: 1. Scraper adjustment: in manual mode hydraulically raise the sampling shoe to maximum height. Adjust scraper until cutting shoe clears scraper blade when sampler shank is fully raised. Adjust scraper bracket until cutting shoe clears scraper when sampler assembly is raised completely. 2.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 When installing BNC cover, route electrode wires under box; center box on white pad, and tighten wingnut finger tight. Keep cover installed even when electrodes are removed. When wash jets are properly aligned, overspray is minimized and water bubbles out top of electrode holder as shown here. 4. Insert pH electrodes into electrode holder. Finger-tighten plastic screws. Install BNC cover on external controller to keep moisture out of BNC connectors.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 7. Prox sensor: The prox sensor communicates the position of the sampler assembly to the external controller for automatic cycling functions. Adjust sensor to 1/4”- 3/8” (6-9 mm) gap. Cycle unit manually to insure that this gap is maintained throughout cycling range. Red LED light should light whenever prox sensor is near metal and not light when away from metal. To view LED light, shade ambient light from prox sensor and cycle sampler assembly manually.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 7. You will be asked for the ID of the electrode connected to channel 1. Use the 1 and 2 keys to change the number and 3 to confirm: Repeat for electrode 2’s ID and press 3 to confirm. 8. The instrument will prompt for the electrodes to be inserted into pH buffer 4 solution; Slide pH 4 buffer solution container onto electrode holder. Press 1 to continue with calibration or 2 to exit. 9.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 18. 19. 20. 21. After 10 seconds, the instrument will display the final pH reading and offer the options to 1) Accept pH 7 buffer readings; 2) Redo pH buffer 7 readings; or 3) Exit pH electrode calibration. If the readings are satisfactory, log pH 7 reading and press 1; if the readings are suspect, press 2 to return to step 16.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Collecting pH data Set external controller to Automatic mode. Turn on Veris instrument. The first screen to appear contains the software version number and shows how much memory is available. 1.02a Check available memory to be sure you have enough available to contain the data from field you are about to map. Options: Press any key and proceed to menu options. 1. Download/Delete old files: For information on Option 1, see section on Downloading, 2.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 seconds in order to allow soil to begin flowing through cutting shoe. If soil conditions result in a very firm core, the sampling time may be reduced to 1 second. Press 1 or 2 to adjust the sample time, press 3 to continue to the next screen. Maximum log time is the longest time in seconds the pH controller will wait for the pH readings to settle. The controller usually cycles before this maximum time is reached.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 DGPS indicator: NONE, _GPS, DGPS Speed in MPH Shallow and Deep EC readings pH readings from each electrode if equipped with pH module Status of pH sampling mechanism The display is showing the pH values from the pH electrodes, conductivity of the top 1’ (30 cm) and top 3’ (90 cm) of the soil, and whether you have GPS or DGPS (differentially corrected) signal. The system does not record any conductivity point that isn’t DGPS geo-referenced.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 See the troubleshooting section if this occurs frequently. The Veris MSP pH Manager uses two electrodes for optimal data quality. If there is a difference of 0.75 or greater between the final electrode readings, an audible alarm will beep, informing the operator of the erroneous reading. To pause the data collection process at any time (but keep the same file), press the 1 key.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 The unit is telling you that you have finished creating a file, along with the date and time it was completed. Pressing any key will bring up the next window. You may also shut the power off at this point. Press any key for file management options for the files that were just created. You can do four different things with the file you have just created: Option 1: Download to disk.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 the final settled smoothed soil pH readings (VPHE000.DAT). A formatting example of each file type follows: Raw soil millivolts (VPHLXXX.DAT): Long. Lat. Electrode 1 (mV) Electrode 2 (mV) Elevation Speed -88.7579 43.49488 -20 -25 291.2 4.5 Wash sequence millivolts (VPHWXXX.DAT): Long. Lat. Electrode 1 (mV) Electrode 2 (mV) Controller state -88.7579 43.49488 -20 -25 33 Extracted soil pH (VPHEXXX.DAT): LONGITUDE LATITUDE pH TIME ALTITUDE SPEED -88.7579 43.49488 6.75 8.5 291.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Lubrication Rockshaft pivot points – Each pivot (located at the left and right) contains an upper and lower grease zerk. Due to the limited motion of the rockshaft, these should be lubricated on 20-hour intervals. This may vary based on the number of times the unit is raised and lowered.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Wash System If wash water develops algae, flush and fill tanks with tap water; clean any algae or other foreign matter out of tank using clean-out ball valve (right side). Set wash system ball valve (left side) to open position, allowing water to flow to pumps. Clean filter at least once per week of operation. Remove plug and turn on ball valve to clean.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 knock worn shoe off from rear tap new shoe on with 2x4 Replace sampling trough liner, scraper cutting edge when wear is apparent. Hydraulic power pack Refer to provided Honda manual for complete information on Honda engine. engine oil dipstick Before filling tank with gasoline, let engine cool. Gas vapors can ignite and an explosion can occur. SERVICE REQUIRED Hydraulic Fluid Hydraulic Fluid Filter INTERVAL Check level at site glass on hydraulic fluid reservoir.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Engine Sediment Cup Clean as Instructed in Honda Engines Manual. Engine Spark Plug Clean-Readjust as Instructed in Honda Manual. Replace as Instructed in Honda Engines Manual. NOTE: IN DUSTY FIELD CONDITIONS CHECK AND CLEAN AIR FILTER DAILY hydraulic oil filler plug hydraulic oil filter canister hydraulic oil sight glass hydraulic oil reservoir hydraulic oil drain plug • Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin causing serious injury.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Change the filter cartridge whenever the hydraulic fluid is drained. Parker replacement cartridges (Veris P/N: RP9253) are available from Veris Technologies. One of the largest causes of service problems in the hydraulic functions is contamination. Whenever the hydraulic ends are inserted into the remote outlets, clean both the hydraulic end and the outlet. Keep covers on outlets when not in use.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 pH Module Troubleshooting 1. Unit doesn’t cycle when “1” key is pressed (in Automatic Mode) -check to be sure you are in Data Acquisition mode—screen below: -check to be sure that external controller is in Automatic mode. If it isn’t, this screen will appear: -follow troubleshooting flow chart below and see related procedures at end of Troubleshooting Section.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 2. Functions Aren’t Working in Manual Mode -follow troubleshooting flow chart below and see related procedures at end of Troubleshooting Section. 3. Sampling mechanism locks up or mis-cycles -press “1” to disengage, turn external controller to Manual and check prox sensor adjustment (see Procedure #4 at end of Troubleshooting Section) -check DGPS signal -if status of sampler shows “Cycling” for long periods, set sampler shank to shallower position.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Use pH simulator to test external controller and Veris instrument. On/Off key (Turn pH simulator OFF when test is completed) Attach to each BNC port to test each circuit Press Select button to toggle from 4 to 7 to 10. Light above pH value will light. View Veris instrument to confirm these readings at each simulator setting.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 11.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Procedure #1: Checking power inside External Controller The Veris pH module requires a minimum of 12 volts at all times. 12 volts at the battery terminals is NOT sufficient power for the system to function, due to the significant current draw when the pumps and solenoids are engaged. Reduced voltage can be caused by corroded or dirty terminals, and an inadequately charged battery or failure in the charging system.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 POWER (12V) FUSE 1 (10A) and its LED 12V C 5V FUSE 2 (250 mA) and its LED Figure 2. External Controller circuit board (metal cover removed) 2. Turn off power to External Controller, remove clear lid and remove and replace any fuse that has failed. 3. Check voltage with a digital voltmeter at power supply connection All functions must be engaged during this test.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Figure 3: Using voltmeter to check voltage at External Controller power supply If voltage at power connector drops below 12 volts during this test: a) clean battery terminals b) check disconnect contacts c) hook power leads directly to battery—not through tractor power port d) charge battery 4. Check voltage at power cable (Figure 4). If 12V at cable but not on circuit board—call Veris Service Dept.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Procedure #2: Trouble-shooting Sampler Cylinder Hydraulics The Veris pH module uses electro-hydraulics to perform the cycling functions. If the sampling shoe hydraulic cylinder is not functioning properly, the cause of the problem must be traced to either the electronic or the hydraulic side. This Procedure will guide you through the steps necessary to identify the problem when the sampler cylinder in manual mode is not moving or only moves in one direction.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 SOLENOID LED’s UP 12V C 5V DOWN Figure 3. External Controller circuit board (metal cover removed) 3. Test voltage coming out of External Controller to solenoids. Disconnect the weather-pack connectors in line from Controller to the solenoids. Using a digital voltmeter set to read voltage, insert leads into connector coming from Controller. Activate manual raise-lower switch and read voltage. (Figure 4) Voltage should be 12 volts. Figure 4.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Figure 5. Testing continuity of solenoid coil (at weather-pack connector on jumper-wire) 5. Determine if coil is energizing. (This test integrates the previous two steps—if you have 12 volts going to the coil and the coil is functioning (has continuity), the coil should energize.) Touch a small screwdriver or other metal object to the coil as shown in Figure 6, and activate manual raise/lower switch. When the coil energizes it will hold the metal magnetically.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Procedure #3: Trouble-shooting Communication Problem between Instrument and External Controller Communication between the Veris Instrument and the External Controller is required for the system to initialize (sampler cylinder moves to neutral), and function. A communication failure between these components may be expressed as INIT ERR (initialization error) or COMM ERR (communication error). Follow flow chart below to address problems in their logical sequence. Figure 1.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Figure 2. Inspecting pins on communication cable 2. Testing continuity on communication cable. a) Unplug the communication cable from the Instrument. b) Bring both ends of the communication cable close enough together to reach with a voltmeter. c) Set your voltmeter to resistance (or continuity). Check continuity between the following pins: (Figure 3.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 d) Check continuity from brown Molex connector to 9 pin serial connector; this tests continuity from the circuit board to the instrument. (Figure 5) Molex Connector 4-pin connector 9 pin serial connector White 2 3 Green 1 2 Black 3 5 Figure 5. Testing continuity from Molex connector to serial connector 4. Testing that the external controller is receiving/acknowledging the command sent to it by the Instrument. a) Turn on the external pH Controller.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 5. Testing that the instrument is sending the proper command to the external controller. a) Connect the Instrument to the PC using a serial cable (you will need a null modem and may need a gender changer). Turn on the Instrument and enter data acquisition. The data in Hyper Terminal should look like this $U♥♦Ç$U♥♦Ç The important letter above is the ‘U’, but the data coming up should match this character-for-character.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 Procedure #4: Trouble-shooting Prox Sensor The prox sensor, located on the left of the sampler shoe parallel linkage arm, is critical to the machine’s function. It informs the external controller of the sampler’s position, which allows the controller to move the sampler to the next position in the sampling/measuring sequence. If the prox sensor is not functioning properly, the entire operation will be affected.
Veris Technologies Pub. #OM MSP03-1 1/4 to 3/8” gap (6-9 mm) Figure 2. Prox sensor gap 3. Adjust prox sensor height if needed. Loosen bolt holding prox sensor arm and rotate to change height of prox sensor (Figure 3). Adjust prox sensor height with sampler shoe completely raised. Adjust the prox sensor so it barely clears the lower part of the sensor plate when sampler is completely raised. It may be necessary to reposition the electrode holder and/or sampler shoe after adjusting prox sensor.
