Digital Control DigiTrak Aurora AF10, DigiTrak Aurora AP8, DigiTrak Aurora AF8 Operator's Manual

Series Display

Operator’s Manual

Panel Mounted AP8

Freestanding AF8 and AF10

[e-mail]

www.DigiTrak.com

DIGITALCONTRO LINCORP ORATED

403-2800-21-C, metric, printed on 12/13/2017. For software v2.0 and later.

© 2017 DigitalControl Incorporated. Allrights reserved.

Trademarks

The Aurora logo, the DCI®logo, DigiTrak®, F2, F5®, MFD®, SE®, SST®, Target Steering®, and TensiTrak®are U.S. registered
trademar ks and Ball-in-the-Box™ and F Series™ are trademarks of Digital Control Incorpor ated. Bluetooth®is a registered
trademar k of Bluetooth SIG Inc.

Patents

U.S. and foreign patents apply to the product covered by this manual. For details,please visit www.DigiTrak.com/patents.

Limited Warranty

Allproducts manufactured and soldby DigitalControl Incorporated (DCI) are subject to the terms of a Limited Warranty. A copy of the
Limited Warranty isincluded at the end of this manual; it can also be obtained by contacting DCI Customer Service, 425- 251-0559 or
800-288- 3610, or on DCI's website,www.DigiTrak.com.

Important Notice

Allstatements, technical information, and recommendations related to DCI products are based on information believed to be reliable.
However, DCI does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information. Befor e using any DCI product, the
user should determine the suitability of the product for itsintended use. All statements herein refer to DCI productsas delivered by DCI
for use with horizontaldirectional drilling in the ordinary course, and do not applyto any user customizations, third party applications
developed for Aurora, third-party products, or any usage of the DCI product outside of the ordinary course. Nothing herein shall
constitute a warranty by DCI nor will anything herein be deemed to modify the terms of DCI’sexisting Limited Warranty applicable to all
DCI products.DCI may update or correct the information in this manual from time to time. You may find the most recent version of this
manual on DCI's website, www.DigiTrak.com.

Compliance Statement

This equipment complies with Part 15 of the Rules of the FCC and with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standards and with
Australia Class License 2000 for LIPD (low interference potential devices). Operation issubject to the following two conditions: (1) this
equipment may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this equipment must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation. DCI isresponsible for FCC compliance in the United States: Digital Control Incorporated, 19625
62nd Ave S, Suite B103, Kent WA 98032; phone [phone] or 800-288-3610.

Changes or modifications to any DCI equipment not expressly approved and carried out by DCI willvoid the user’s Limited Warranty
and the F CC’s authorization to operate the equipment.

CE Requirements

DigiTrak receivers are classified as Class 2 radio equipment per the R&TTE Directive and may not be legal to operate or
require a user license to operate in some countries. The list of restrictions and the required declarations of conformity

are available on DCI’s website atwww.DigiTrak.com.

ii DigiTrak®Aurora®DisplayOperator's Manual

Contact Us

DIGITALCONTRO LINCORP ORATED

United States

DCI Headquarters

Australia

China

Europe

19625 62nd Ave S, Suite B103
Kent, Washington 98032, USA

1.425.251.0559 / 1.800.288.3610

1.425.251.0702 fax

[e-mail]

2/9 Frinton Street
Southport QLD 4215

61.7.5531.4283

61.7.5531.2617 fax

[e-mail]

368 Xingle Road
Huacao Town
Minhang District
Shanghai 201107, P.R.C.

86.21.6432.5186

86.21.6432.5187 (传真 )

[e-mail]

Brueckenstraße 2
97828 Marktheidenfeld
Deutschland

49.9391.810.6100

49.9391.810.6109 Fax

[e-mail]

India

Russia

DTJ 203, DLF Tower B
Jasola District Center
New Delhi 110025

91.11.4507.0444

91.11.4507.0440 fax

[e-mail]

Молодогвардейская ул., д.4
стр. 1, офис 5
Москва, Российская Федерация 121467

7.499.281.8177

7.499.281.8166 факс

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DigiTrak®Aurora®DisplayOperator's Manual iii

DIGITALCONTRO LINCORP ORATED

Dear Customer,

Thank you for choosing a DigiTrak guidance system. We are proud of the equipment we have been designing
and building in Washington State since 1990. We believe in providing a unique, high-quality product and
standing behind it with world-class customer service and training.

Please take the time to read this entire manual, especially the section on safety. Please also register your
equipment online at access.DigiTrak.com. Or, fill in the product registration card provided with this
equipment and either fax it to us at 253-395-2800 or mail it to DCI headquarters.

Product registration entitles you to free telephone support (in the USA and Canada), notification of product
updates, and helps us provide you with future product upgrade information.

Our Customer Service department is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the U.S. to help with
problems or questions. International contact information is available in this document and on our website.

As the horizontal directional drilling industry grows, we’re keeping our eye on the future to develop equipment
that makes your job faster, easier, and safer. Visit us online any time to see what we’re up to.

We welcome your questions, comments, and ideas.

Digital Control Incorporated
Kent, Washington
2017

Watch our DigiTrak Training Videos at www.YouTube.com/DCIKent

For system component name and model information, refer to Appendix A on page 34.

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Table of Contents

Important Safety Instructions 1

General 1
Safety 1

Care and Maintenance 3

Touchscreen Interface 3
Cleaning 3
Heat and Sunlight 3
General 4

Introduction 5

Getting Started 6

Freestanding AF10 6
All Models 6

Installing Your Display 7

Main Menu 8

Power On 8
Applications 9
Settings 10

Device 11
Network 12
Alarms 14
Pitch History 15
Receiver 16
Peripherals 17
Update 17

Help 19

Drilling with the Home Screen 20

Telemetry Signal Strength 20
Roll Offset 21
Temperature 21
Fluid Pressure Transmitter 21
Depth Readings 22
Predicted Depth 22

Target Steering 24

Steering to the Target 24
Target Steering in Interference Areas 26
Understanding the Steering Indicator Ball 27
Classic View 27
Turning Target Steering Off 28

Working with TensiTrak 29

Setting Warning Levels 29

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Working with the MFCB 30

Enabling the MFCB 30
Using a Cable Transmitter 31

Applying Power to the Transmitter 31

Using a Steering Tool Transmitter (SST) 31

Setting a Heading Reference 32

Appendix A: System Specifications 34

Power Requirements 34
Environmental Requirements 34
Networking Requirements 34
Storage and Shipping Requirements 34

Temperature 34
Packaging 34

STANDARD WARRANTY

Product drawings in this document contain distinctly different colors to help the reader
distinguish components. These colors are for illustration purposes only and do not represent
actual product colors.

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DIGITALCONTRO LINCORP ORATED

All operators must read and understand the following safety precautions and warnings and must
review this operator’s manual and the operator’s manual for their DigiTrak®guidance system
before using the Aurora display. If you have any questions about the operation of Aurora, please
contact DCI Customer Service for assistance.

Important Safety Instructions

General

The following warnings relate generally to the operation of DigiTrak®guidance systems. This is not
an exhaustive list. Please review the operator’s manual for your DigiTrak guidance system for
additional safety precautions and warnings relating to its use.

Serious injury and death can result if underground drilling equipment makes contact with an
underground utility such as a high-voltage electrical cable or a natural gas line. DigiTrak guidance
systems cannot be used to locate underground utilities.

Work slowdowns and cost overruns can occur if drilling operators do not use the drilling or
guidance equipment correctly to obtain proper performance.

Substantial property damage and liability can result if underground drilling equipment makes
contact with an underground utility.

This symbol on equipment indicates that the equipment must not be disposed of with your other
household waste. Instead, it is your responsibility to dispose of such equipment at a designated
collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. The separate collection
and recycling of your waste equipment at the time of disposal will help conserve natural
resources and ensure it is recycled in a manner that protects human health and the environment.
For more information about where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please
contact your local city office, your household waste disposal service, or the shop where you
purchased the equipment.

Safety

Aurora is for use solely with DigiTrak Horizontal Directional Drilling guidance systems. The
warnings in this section relate specifically to the operation of an Aurora display with DigiTrak
guidance systems.

The Aurora display does not eliminate the need for human judgment by a drill rig operator. Danger may arise
at the job site at any time even without an alarm or warning from the Aurora display. Drill rig operators must
maintain close attention to the drilling operation at all times.

Do not view training videos or help files on Aurora while drilling.

DCI does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of data or information displayed or generated by Aurora. The
accuracy of such data or information may rely on the accuracy of input from third-party sources, such as drill
rigs or other equipment manufactured by third parties, GPS data, or bore plan or other data input by a user.
DCI cannot be responsible for the accuracy of such third-party input.

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The accuracy of data generated by a DigiTrak Guidance System may be affected by a variety of factors,
including (but not limited to) interference (passive or active) or other environmental conditions, improper use
of the DigiTrak guidance system by the end user, failure to follow instructions found in the operator’s manual
for the DigiTrak guidance system, and failure to properly calibrate the DigiTrak Guidance System. Always
perform a background noise check prior to drilling.

Aurora transmits radio signals. Accordingly, maintain a minimum distance of 20 cm between the user’s torso
and the Aurora display during operation to ensure compliance with RF exposure requirements.

Because this equipment may generate radio frequency energy, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur at a particular location. If this equipment does interfere with radio or television reception, which can be
determined by powering the equipment off and on, try to correct the interference using one or more of the
following measures:

l Reorient or relocate the Aurora antenna.

l Increase the separation between the Aurora and affected equipment.

l Consult the dealer or DCI Customer Service for help.

In the event of electrostatic shock, the touchscreen may act as if it has been touched. No data loss will occur
but windows may open or close randomly. User intervention is required to return the screen to the previous
state.

An Aurora display is GPS-ready. Review local regulations governing the use of GPS before using any
applications that employ this technology.

Failure to properly care for and maintain your Aurora display may result in malfunction or inoperability of the
unit. If your Aurora malfunctions or ceases to operate for any reason, stop drilling immediately and contact
DCI Customer Service.

An Aurora display contains no user serviceable parts. Contact your local HDD dealer or DCI customer
service if you believe service is required.

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Care and Maintenance

Touchscreen Interface

Avoid operating Aurora while wearing gloves not specifically designed for use with touchscreens, as the
response will be poor and foreign material on the gloves may damage the touchscreen. Use the soft pad of
your fingertip to tap the display, or use gloves with a touchscreen-compatible fingertip. Never use a fingernail
or foreign object.

Cleaning

Use only a glass cleaner that is specifically tested to not harm the protective coatings on touchscreen glass.
Use the power button to lock the screen for cleaning (see Power On, page 8).

A non-abrasive soap and water mixture is suitable for both the display and case.

Wipe the screen gently with a microfiber or soft cotton cloth, as hard rubbing may remove or damage the anti­reflective coating. Avoid salt water, which is abrasive.

Do not use household or commercial window cleaning products that include chemicals such as ammonia,
alcohol, or any acidic liquid. These cleaners can contain microscopic abrasive granules that will damage the
anti-reflective film and may cause the display to spot.

Use all provided connector covers when connectors are not in use. Ensure connectors are free of debris
before making connections.

The Aurora is IP66-rated to be resistant to water jets with pressure up to 1.0 bar at a distance of 3 m. Avoid
using pressure washers or steam cleaners that exceed this level.

Heat and Sunlight

It is normal for the display to get warm. The housing functions as a cooling surface that transfers heat from
the inside. In hot environments, you can help your Aurora stay cool by providing shade and/or lowering the
touchscreen brightness.

In extreme heat and direct sunlight conditions, the maximum internal operating temperature of the Aurora unit
may be exceeded. One of the first symptoms of overheating is an unresponsive touchscreen. To restore
functionality in this case, shade the display from direct sunlight, turn down the screen brightness, and allow it
to cool. If possible, turn the display completely off using the power button or by removing power from the
display. After sufficient cooling time, full functionality will return.

If Aurora senses it is overheating, it will slow processing tasks to minimize heat and protect internal
components. If overheating continues, it will shut down before any damage can occur. If this happens, stop
drilling immediately, keep the Aurora off and in shade, and allow fifteen minutes for it to cool before restarting.

If excessive heat causes the touch function to become unresponsive, you can still use a USB mouse to
make selections, such as accessing the Settings window to lower the screen brightness.

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General

Turn off the display when not in use.

Store the display in its case, away from extremes of heat, cold, and moisture. Test to confirm proper
operation prior to use.

Inspect the display daily and contact DCI if you see any damage or problems. Do not disassemble or attempt
to repair.

4 DigiTrak®Aurora®DisplayOperator's Manual

Introduction

Panel Mounted AP8 Freestanding AF8 Freestanding AF10

DIGITALCONTRO LINCORP ORATED

DigiTrak Aurora Displays

The Aurora®DigiTrak®Series Display is a multifunction touchscreen device that is compatible with SE®,
FSeries™, and Falcon DigiTrak guidance receivers. A receiver is used during horizontal directional drilling
operations to locate and track a transmitter installed in the drill head. Aurora provides the drill rig operator
information from the receiver about the depth, orientation, and status of the transmitter. Aurora’s multi­tasking ability allows it to (for example) simultaneously track and graph fluid pressure and monitor Target
Steering®.

Aurora is powered through the drill rig’s DC power supply. The supplied external 33 cm telemetry antenna
enhances signal reception up to 550 m with line of sight to the receiver (dependent on local regulatory
constraints). An optional antenna is available to increase reception for even longer bores.

A complete system consists of an Aurora display, handheld receiver (locator), transmitter, power cable,
battery charger, and battery packs for powering the receiver. Depending on how you purchased your Aurora,
you may or may not have received all of these components.

This manual discusses only operation of the Aurora display. For additional information on the other
components of a DigiTrak guidance system, as well as helpful information on drilling and locating, please see
the corresponding DigiTrak Operator’s Manual, available at www.DigiTrak.com.

This manual assumes the use of a Falcon F5®receiver. When using the Aurora display with other DigiTrak
receivers, small differences in screen elements or behavior will exist, but the primary functionality remains
the same, within the capabilities of your receiver.

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Getting Started

Following are the basic steps for setting up your Aurora display for drilling. For complete details on the safe
setup, operation, and features of your Aurora, please review the rest of this manual.

Keep the separate Quick Start Guide (QSG) that came with your Aurora with you while you drill. The QSG is
also available on your Aurora through the Help menu.

Remember to register your Aurora at access.DigiTrak.com so you can stay informed about important
updates to your display and apps.

Freestanding AF10

1. Thumb screw

2. Power

3. Locking knob

AF10 2-inch ball mount

1. Install the docking station in a solid location and tighten the locking knob firmly.

2. Connect the round keyed connector on the power cable to the docking station and the other end to a
12–24 VDC accessory port.

3. Connect your Aurora to the docking station using the thumb screw on the back.

Continue below.

All Models

1. Connect the telemetry antenna.

2. Connect Aurora to a power source; it displays the Home screen.

3.

Tap Main Menu , then Receiver to select your type of receiver,
telemetry channel to match that of the receiver, and region.

4.

Tap Home to return to the Home screen. If the receiver is receiving
data from a transmitter, that data will now display on the Aurora.

For more information on Settings, see page 10.

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1. Speaker

2. Power/screen lock b utton

3. USB port

Aurora Panel Mounted AP8

Installing Your Display

An 8-inch panel mounted Aurora (model AP8) should be installed by your DigiTrak dealer. To install the AP8
yourself, refer to the MFD/Aurora Installation Guide, available at www.DigiTrak.com. After your panel
mounted Aurora is installed, continue with the next section, Main Menu.

For installation of the freestanding model AF10, please refer to the separate Installation Guide included with
your display.

For the freestanding model AF8, simply find a suitable location for the magnetic base to attach to and
connect the power/data wire and antenna.

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Main Menu

Power On

Aurora automatically turns on and displays the Home screen when it receives power.

To temporarily lock the screen so you can wipe it clean without making selections,
press and release the power button on the back. A padlock displays beside the DCI logo
in the upper left of the screen to indicate the screen is locked. Press and release the
power button again to unlock the screen.

To put the Aurora into a low-power state with the screen off and processor halted, hold the power button in for
approximately two seconds. Press and release the power button again to resume.

1. Telemetry channel

2. Transmitter temperature

3. Taskbar

Home Screen

The Aurora touchscreen features a taskbar at the bottom and shortcuts directly to key features. For example,
to change the telemetry channel, simply tap and hold the telemetry channel label at the top of the screen

(here Ch 1) and Aurora opens the appropriate Settings window in the Main Menu . Similarly, to view

temperature alarms, tap and hold on the transmitter temperature icon .

Use the soft pad of your fingertip to tap the display, or use gloves with a touchscreen-compatible fingertip.
Never use a fingernail or foreign object.

The main menu is divided into three tabs:

l Applications (next section)

l Settings (page 10)

l Help (page 19)

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