Mega MCU800 User Manual
Mosquito Trap
Operation Manual
Ultra
Model MCU800
Pub. No: USA Version U1006
Contents Page
Important Safety Instructions 1
Introduction 2
Features of Mega-Catch ULTRA Mosquito Trap 2
Initial Set Up Instructions 3-4
What Your Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap Will Do 5
Installing and Siting the Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap 5-6
Mega-Catch Trolley 7-8
Stand Assembly Instructions 9
Mega-Catch Variable Quantity Slow CO
Gas Release System 10
2
Connecting the ULTRA to the CO2 Gas Supply 11-12
Operation of Variable Quantity Slow CO
CO
Gas Suppliers 13
2
Gas Release System 12-13
2
Operation of the Programmable Timer 14-15
Mosquito Catching Systems 16
Using the Liquid Catch Container 16
Using the Catch Bag 17
Fitting of External Skirt 18
Care of Your Trap 19-20
Replacement of U.V. Bulb 20
Mega-Catch Octenol Fragrance Strip 21
Optional Accessories 22
Maintenance and Repair of Your Trap 23-25
Removal of Timer 26
Frequently Asked Questions 27
Problem Solving 28
Specifications 28
Parts List 29
Important Safety Instructions
Do not operate the Trap indoors.
Keep children and pets away from the Trap.
When the Trap is not in use disconnect power, turn off CO
Gas Cylinder out of reach of children.
Always disconnect power before cleaning, servicing or inspecting the inside of the Trap.
To avoid injury from the High-Speed Fan inside the Trap, always disconnect power before
opening the Door. Keep the Door locked and remove the Key while the Trap is operating.
Plug the Power Cord into a properly grounded electrical outlet protected from weather.
Do not allow the Trap, Transformer, Power Cord or plug to be immersed in water.
Do not operate the Trap with a damaged Transformer, Power Cord or plug.
Do not use any extension cord other than the Extension Cord supplied with the Trap.
Ensure Power Cords are placed carefully to avoid causing a tripping hazard.
Ensure the Trap is properly installed in accordance with this operation manual.
Before installing or removing the CO
Gas Regulator, always ensure that the CO2 gas is
2
turned off at the Gas Cylinder.
Read and follow instructions in this operation manual carefully before operating the Trap.
Your Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap should be used in conjunction with other sensible control
measures designed to manage mosquito problems:
Eliminate standing water in low spots, ditches, gutters and similar areas.
Empty receptacles that collect water (e.g. bird baths and pot plant saucers).
Reduce breeding sites by keeping grass mown.
Mosquito netting/screens can be used to provide mosquito-free areas.
Light coloured clothing is less attractive to some mosquito species and if tightly woven,
can give some protection against biting.
DEET is considered the most effective mosquito repellent, but should not be used too
heavily.
gas and store the Trap and
2
1
Introduction
Mosquitoes have been described as the most dangerous creatures on Earth.
Aedes mosquitoes may carry yellow fever and dengue fever. Culex mosquitoes may carry several
strains of encephalitis (including St. Louis Encephalitis, Eastern Equine Encephalitis and West
Nile Virus), and Anopheles mosquitoes may carry malaria.
Male mosquitoes do not bite. The real risk is from female mosquitoes which bite when in search
of blood to provide protein for their eggs.
Scientific research over the past 50 years has shown that female mosquitoes find their prey
using a combination of sensory cues including light, shape, color, heat, vibration, sweat and
other by-products of human activity.
Using that research and with the benefit of extensive field testing (including tests by the United
States Department of Agriculture in Gainesville, Florida), Mega-Catch has developed one of
the worlds most advanced mosquito traps: the Mega-Catch ULTRA Mosquito Trap.
Features of Mega-Catch ULTRA Mosquito Trap
The Mega-Catch ULTRA Mosquito Trap has been designed for outdoor use only. The ULTRA
can operate unattended for long periods. It can be programmed to start and stop according
to peak mosquito activity in your area. It features an electronically controlled diode lighting
system that produces intermittent light at oscillating frequencies selected to coincide with
spectral sensitivity peaks for many mosquito species. It also features a low-intensity U.V. or
black light Bulb.
Mosquitoes attracted to the ULTRA by visual and other cues seek to land on and probe specially
designed surfaces and enter the Trap where they are collected in the Catch Bag or Liquid Catch
Container.
The ULTRA also features the Mega-Catch Variable Quantity Slow CO
Gas Release System.
2
Use of this attractant system is entirely optional. The system enables the ULTRA to replicate
a key element of human respiration by releasing small quantities of carbon dioxide (CO2) gas
at an exponentially decaying (negative) rate over fixed intervals to produce a concentration
gradient in the air plume emanating from the lower part of the Trap. The CO2 plume will, in
optimum conditions, attract mosquitoes from a distance of up to 150 feet (45 meters).
Mosquitoes are able to navigate their way to the Trap by following the CO2 gas plume up wind.
CO
is a natural product and is used extensively in the beverage industry to aerate (put bubbles
2
into) the likes of beer, softdrinks and sparkling mineral water. CO2 is able to be purchased from
gas supply outlets throughout the U.S.A. and elsewhere (see page 13, CO2 Gas Suppliers section).
Quantities of CO2 gas released by the ULTRA can be adjusted between 5 settings by a simple
touch of the Gas Select Button on the Programmable Timer. A 20lb (9kg) CO2 Gas Cylinder
used at the recommended settings should last for up to 4 months (see page 12-13, Operation
of Variable Quantity Slow CO2 Gas Release System section).
2
Initial Set Up Instructions
Before attempting operation of your ULTRA Trap, follow these instructions:
1. Remove the Trap from the carton.
2. Remove the box containing the Stand from the carton.
3. Assemble the Stand (see Page 9 - Stand Assembly Instructions section).
4. Remove the box marked Accessories from the base of the carton.
5. Fit the External Skirt to the outside of the Trap by sliding the skirt on from the top of
the Trap so that the opening is directly in front of the Door (see Page 18 - Fitting of
External Skirt section).
Note: Failure to position the Skirt correctly will result in a NIL mosquito catch.
6. Your
7. If you wish to catch mosquitoes using the Catch Bag, then attach the Catch Bag to the
8. If you wish to catch mosquitoes using the wet-catch system, fill the Liquid Catch
9. Remove the Mega-Catch Octenol Fragrance Strip from its pouch being careful not to
10. Reinstall the Door by locating the base of the Door in the Trap and then pushing firmly
11. Hang the Trap from the hook on the Stand in the direction shown in the Stand Assembly
ULTRA Trap has two mosquito collection methods: a dry-catch system using a
Catch Bag and a wet catch system using a Catch Container. In most circumstances the
wet-catch system offers superior catch performance to the dry-catch system. The drycatch system using the Catch Bag is better for mosquito species identification.
base of the Fan inside the Trap. The Catch Bag has an elastic top to facilitate attachment
(see Page 16, Mosquito Catching Systems section).
Container two-thirds full with fresh water. Add 2 or 3 drops of liquid detergent / soap
to break the surface tension of the water. Also add 3 or 4 teaspoons of a non-diet
(sugar-based) soft drink. Then place the Liquid Catch Container in the Trap using the
locating feet on its base.
touch the exposed holes on its surface. Place the strip inside the Trap (see Page 22,
Mega-Catch Octenol Fragrance Strip section). Wash your hands after this procedure
has been completed.
until Door clicks into place. Lock the Door using one of the two Keys provided with the
Trap and then remove the Key. (NOTE: Removing and reinstalling the door is designed
to require a reasonable amount of force to make it difficult for children.)
Instructions. To achieve this, hold the Trap in an upright position so that the top of the
Trap is next to the hook on the stand. Then swing the bottom of the Trap outwards
(through an arc of about 45 degrees) and you will see that the top of the Trap will fit
through the gap in the hook. This is a design feature to prevent the Trap falling off the
stand accidentally.
3
12. The ULTRA Trap comes with the Mega-Catch Variable Quantity Slow CO2 Gas Release
System. Use of this system is entirely optional (see page 10, Mega-Catch Variable
Quantity Slow CO
Quantity Slow CO
(see page 13, CO
Gas Release System section). If using the Mega-Catch Variable
2
Gas Release System then you will first need to obtain a CO2 cylinder
2
Gas Suppliers section). Having obtained a CO2 cylinder, connect the
2
Low-Pressure Gas Regulator (supplied with the Trap) to the Gas Cylinder ensuring
beforehand that the O ring on the Gas Regulator is properly in place and undamaged.
Then connect the Regulator to the Trap (see page 11, Connecting the ULTRA to the
CO
Gas Supply section). Slowly turn on the CO2 gas checking for leaks. Set the gas
2
setting using the Gas Select button on the Programmable Timer (see page 12-13,
Operation of Variable Quantity Slow CO
Gas Release System section). Setting #1
2
is low. Setting #5 is high. (NOTE: you will need to reset the gas setting if the power
is turned off).
13. Your
ULTRA Trap comes with a low-voltage transformer and a 60-foot (18-meter) low-
voltage extension cord with weatherproof connectors. Plug the extension cord into the
Trap connection turning the connector clockwise until tight. Plug the extension cord
into the transformer cable turning the connector clockwise until tight. Then plug into
the power supply. (NOTE: The connectors are designed to be a tight fit to ensure that
they are weatherproof.)
14. Turn on the power. A display should appear on the face of the Timer. (If it does not,
see Page 14-15, Operation of the Programmable Timer section). Set the Timer to
"ON" for continuous running or to "AUTO" to program operating times. See Page 1415, Operation of the Programmable Timer section for programming instructions.
15. If the U.V. Bulb inside the Trap is not on then turn it on by touching the switch on the
Programmable Timer which is marked U.V. Tube. When the Trap is operating, the Fan
should be running, the four Diode Lights should be flashing intermittently, the U.V. Bulb
should be on (unless switched off) and the Trap should click every 75-80 seconds. If
the Trap is not operating correctly then re-read these instructions or refer to page 28
Problem Solving section, or email us at info@megacatch.com.
4
What Your Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap Will Do
Your Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap is designed to reduce mosquito populations, but it will not
permanently eliminate them. Operate the Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap daily for several weeks.
Over this time you should notice a decline in mosquito numbers. This means your Trap is doing
its job. (NOTE: Rain will probably result in a new infestation.)
The Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap is not designed to compete with humans in close proximity
eg: at a barbecue. If you are planning an outdoor function, operate the Trap for several days
before the function.
NOTE: Your Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap should be used in conjunction with other sensible
control measures designed to manage mosquito problems.
Installing and Siting the Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap
Installation of Trap:
Your Mosquito Trap comes fully assembled. To install, first follow the instructions on Page 3
- Initial Set Up Instructions section.
The Initial Set Up Instructions assume that you have decided to install your Mega-Catch
Mosquito Trap on the Stand that is supplied with the Trap.
Alternatively, you may choose to install the Trap on a Mega-Catch Trolley which can be
purchased as an optional extra (see page 7-8, Mega-Catch Trolley section).
Alternatively you may decide to hang the Trap from a tree or a fixed post using a chain, nylon
rope or wire connected to the attachment hole at the top of the Trap. We recommen a height
of around 3 feet (1 meter) from the ground to the top of the Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap.
However, you may need to adjust the Traps height depending on the type of mosquitoes you
are catching.
Your Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap is supplied with a 60-foot (18-meter) low-voltage extension
cord with weatherproof fittings. To avoid the cord posing a tripping hazard or being damaged,
(e.g. by a lawn mower) we recommend that, if possible, it be placed 2-3 inches (50-75 mm)
underground. This can be easily achieved by using a spade which is inserted into the ground
and moved backwards and forwards to create a shallow slit trench into which the cord can
be pushed before the ground is replaced by standing on the top of the slit trench.
5
Mosquito
source
Tra p
Prevailing
Wind Direction
FIG 1 - Trap Positioning
Siting of Trap:
For the best performance from your Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap, first determine the source
of the mosquito nuisance (Mosquitoes breed in wet areas like streams, marshland, wooded
areas and gardens). Then use these rules to site the Trap:
Rule 1: Place the Trap between the mosquito source and areas of human activity.
Rule 2: Place the Trap as far away from people and as close to the mosquito source as possible.
(Attract them to the Trap and not to you.)
Rule 3: Place the Trap upwind of the mosquito source but only if you can comply with Rule
1. (Mosquitoes sometimes use the wind to navigate.)
Rule 4: Place the Trap in a predominantly shaded area. (Most mosquitoes avoid direct sunlight.)
Rule 5: Place the Trap in a location protected from rain and strong wind. (Mosquitoes dont
fly in strong winds.)
Rule 6: If severe weather conditions are predicted then store the Trap out of the weather.
6
Mega-Catch Trolley
The Mega-Catch Trolley is an optional extra for use in conjunction with the ULTRA Trap.
Assembly of the Mega-Catch Trolley is a simple procedure if you follow the directions shown
in figures 2.1 to 2.3 below:
FIG 2.1 - Trolley Assembly
When trolley assembly is complete, hang trap
from hook through fitting on top of the unit,
then connect powerplug and gas line.
1
9
0
,
9
4
4
o
tN
n
e
t
a
P
n
g
i
s
e
D
.
S
.
U
3
Insert handle
into frame
Transformer
holder
1
Insert
frame into
base unit
4
Tighten bolt to lock handle
Chain to secure gas cylinder
2
Tighten bolts both sides
to lock frame to base
7
FIG. 2.2 Trolley assembly
Complete with CO2 cylinder
and transformer installed
The Mega-Catch Trolley has been designed
to hold a 20lb (9kgs) CO
2 Gas Cylinder for use
in conjunction with the ULTRA Trap.
If you wish to install a Mega-Catch Mosquito
Trap on a Mega-Catch Trolley without a CO2
Gas Cylinder in place then the handle on the
Trolley should be reversed. We also recommend
that a stability weight (e.g. a cement/cinder
block of at least 10lbs (4.5kg) be placed on the
Trolley in the manner shown in figure 2.4 below.
While your Mega-Catch Trolley is zinc-plated
and powder-coated, when not in use, we
recommend that it be stored out of the weather.
FIG. 2.4 Trolley assembly option
For use without CO2 gas cylinder
Fit trolley handle
opposite to normal so
that trap unit hangs
over stability weight
FIG. 2.3 Trolley assembly
Complete with
weatherproof
cover fitted
8
Loading...