Rae RAELink3 User Manual

RAELink3

User’s Guide

Rev. B

August 2010

P/N 029-4508-000

© Copyright 2010 RAE Systems, Inc.

Contents

1 Regulatory Information .............................................................3

2 Standard Contents......................................................................6

3 General Information................................................................... 6

3.1 Configuration Options ...................................................... 6

3.1.1 Connection With Third-Party Devices .............................7

3.2 Key Features .....................................................................8

4 Specifications............................................................................. 9

5 Charging The Battery ..............................................................10

5.1.1 Detaching The Charging Adapter................................... 11

5.2 Replacing The Li-ion Battery .........................................12

5.3 Alkaline Battery Adapter ................................................ 12

5.4 User Interface..................................................................14

6 Backlight.................................................................................. 15

7 Display.....................................................................................15

8 Operating The RAELink3........................................................ 16

9 Modes Of Operation ................................................................ 16

9.1 Host Mode....................................................................... 17

9.2 Remote Mode.................................................................. 17

9.3 Remote G Mode.............................................................. 18

9.4 Repeater Mode ................................................................ 18

9.5 Third-Party Modes .......................................................... 18

10 Turning The RAELink3 On..................................................... 19

11 Turning The RAELink3 Off .................................................... 20

12 Configuring The RAELink3 .................................................... 20

12.1 Accessing Programming Mode....................................... 20

12.2 Setting The Network ID.................................................. 21

12.3 Set Operation Mode ........................................................ 23

12.4 GPS Power Control......................................................... 24

12.5 GPS Coordinates Check.................................................. 25

12.6 Bluetooth Power Control ................................................26

12.7 Setting The Unit ID......................................................... 27

12.8 Modem Configuration Menu ..........................................29

1

13 Connecting A RAELink3 Remote Via Bluetooth.................... 29

14 Connecting A RAELink3 Remote Via Cable.......................... 32

14.1 GPS And Unobstructed Line Of Sight............................ 33

14.2 Cleaning The RAELink3 ................................................34

14.3 Ordering Replacement Parts ........................................... 34

14.4 Special Servicing Note.................................................... 34

15 Troubleshooting....................................................................... 35

16 Technical Support.................................................................... 36

17 RAE Systems Contacts ............................................................ 37

2

1 Regulatory Information

CAUTION!

To reduce the risk of electric shock, never open the modem cover
during normal operation. This modem is certified to be used in Class
I, Division 2 hazardous locations.

WARNINGS

Use only RAE Systems supplied charging adapter to charge the
rechargeable battery pack inside the modem. Use only RAE Systems
Lithium-Ion battery pack 029-3501-000 or alkaline battery pack, 029­3502-000. Recharge/replace batteries only in non-hazardous
locations.

STATIC HAZARD: Clean only with a damp cloth.

For safety reasons this equipment must be operated and serviced by
qualified personnel only. Read and understand instruction manual
completely before operating or servicing.

3

Specifications

Dimensions

4.73″ x 3.4″ x 1.85″
(120 mm x 86 mm x 48 mm)

Weight

17.3 oz (490 g)

Battery

Rechargeable 7.4V Lithium-Ion battery
pack

Alkaline battery pack (7.5V, five
alkaline batteries)

LCD Display

Backlit with icons and text

Attachment

Belt Clip

Temperature

-20

o

C to 55o C (-4o F to 131

o

F)

Humidity

0% to 95% relative humidity
(Non-condensing)

Safety Certification

Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C, D,
T4

For rechargeable battery pack, 029-3501-000:

WARNING

To reduce the risk of ignition of hazardous atmospheres,
recharge/replace battery only in area known to be non-hazardous.

Ne charger les batteries que dans l’emplacement désigné non
dangereux.

For alkaline battery pack, 029-3502-000:

Note: Do not mix old and new or different types of batteries. Do not

change batteries in hazardous locations.

4

Antenna Lock

Caution: To reduce risk when operating in potentially explosive

atmospheres, ensure the antenna is locked in place with set-screw to
prevent inadvertent disconnection.

Note: Antenna must be locked

in place with set-screw

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

6

2 Standard Contents

• RAELink3

• Charging adapter with AC cable

• Alkaline battery adapter

• RS-232 computer interface cable

• Coiled serial cable (for connection to devices without Bluetooth)

• RAELink3 Quick Reference Guide

• RAELink3 Resource CD

• Whip antenna (for use when RAELink3 is in Remote mode)

• 5dBi antenna with 12' cable and magnetic mount (for use when

RAELink3 is in Host or Repeater mode)

• Hard transport case

3 General Information

The RAELink3 is a compact, portable radio-frequency modem that
provides long-range wireless communication between remote
portable gas monitors (PGMs) such as RAE Systems’ ppbRAE 3000,
MultiRAE Plus, etc., and a base station/computer for comprehensive
monitoring. Up to 64 monitors equipped with RAELink3 units can be
networked with a single Host. In addition, for applications requiring
long-distance monitoring or monitoring in locations with obstructions
to clear line-of-sight communication, RAELink3s configured as
Repeaters extend the effective reach of the system.

3.1 Configuration Options

The RAELink3 can be configured to act in one of the following three
modes:

1. Remote. The RAELink3 Remote functions as a slave modem and

communicates to a host modem with the same network ID.

2. Remote G. The RAELink3 Z1 Remote G functions as a slave

modem to communicate readings from a GammaRAEII R personal
radiation detector to a host modem with the same network ID.

RAELink3 User’s Guide

2. Host. The RAELink3 Host functions as a host modem and

communicates with multiple wireless modems (such as the
RAELink3 Remote and RAELink3 Repeater, as well as AreaRAE
products equipped with RAELink-family Remote modems) with the
same network ID.

3. Repeater. The RAELink3 Repeater functions as a repeater for

RAELink3 Remote slave modems (or AreaRAE or RAELink series
products) with the same network ID.

3.1.1 Connection With Third-Party Devices

The RAELink3 Z1 can be configured as a slave modem to
communicate sensor data from select 3rd party monitors back to a
host modem with the same network ID. Third-party monitors
available to choose from include ChemRAE, LifeShirt, DustTrak and
AP4C.

Note: Some third-party monitors require custom cable for connection
with RAELink3 Z1.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

3.2 Key Features

• Onboard long-range license-free radio for transmission of data up

to 2 miles

• Onboard microcomputer provides flexible protocol translation in

order to interface to most monitoring devices via a serial port

• Onboard Bluetooth master provides Bluetooth wireless

connection with other Bluetooth devices

• Onboard GPS receiver provides global positioning capability

• Onboard LCD displaying radio signal strength, GPS tracking

status, and battery life

• Long operating time from built-in rechargeable Li-Ion battery

pack (up to 18 hours of continuous operation)

Note: Two RAE Systems monitors can connect to one RAELink3

using a Bluetooth and serial cable connection.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

4 Specifications

Dimensions

4.73″ x 3.4″ x 1.85″
(120 mm x 86 mm x 48 mm)

Weight

17.3 oz (490 g)

Battery

Rechargeable 7.4V/1650mAh Lithium­Ion battery pack

Alkaline battery pack (7.5V, five
alkaline batteries)

Operating Time

Up to 18 hours of continuous operation.

LCD Display

Backlit with icons and text

Keypad

3 keys: Y/+, N/-, and MODE

Sensitivity

-108dBm at 10

-6

bit error rate

Data Rate

Up to 115.2 kbps

Error Detection

32 bps CRC, retransmit on error

Data Interface

Bluetooth, RS-232

GPS Accuracy

Within 5 meters

Temperature

-20

o

C to 55o C (-4o F to 131

o

F)

Humidity

0% to 95% relative humidity
(Non-condensing)

IP Rating

IP-65

Safety Certification

Class I, Division 2, Groups A, B, C, D,
T4

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

5 Charging The Battery

It is recommended to fully charge the battery before using the
RAELink3. The Li-ion battery is charged by attaching the instrument
to the Charging Adapter.

Follow this procedure to charge the instrument:

1. Align the Charging Adapter with the back of the RAELink3 (two

guides match indents on the back of the Charging Adapter.

2. Slide the Charging Adapter onto the back of the RAELink3.

3. Make sure the latch clicks into place.

4. Plug the power supply’s barrel connector into the input on the

side of the Charging Adapter.

5. Plug the power supply into the wall outlet.

The LED Charging Indicator in the Charging
Adapter should glow red to indicate it is charging,
and glow green when the battery is fully charged.

Charging
Indicator

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

5.1.1 Detaching The Charging Adapter

To detach the Charging Adapter, press in on the latch. While pressing
the latch, slide the Charging Adapter down.

Press latch

Slide down
while pressing

Release

Side view

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

5.2 Replacing The Li-ion Battery

1. Turn off the instrument.

2. Located on the rear of the instrument are three screws. Loosen all three

screws, and lift the battery out of the RAELink3. Remove the battery
pack from the battery compartment by lifting it out.

Loosen
Screws

Lift
Battery

Remove
Battery

3. Replace a fully charged spare battery pack inside the battery

compartment. Make sure the battery pack is oriented properly
inside the compartment.

4. Press the battery into place with your hand, and then tighten the

three screws.

5.3 Alkaline Battery Adapter

An alkaline battery adapter is supplied with the RAELink3. The
adapter (part number 029-3502-000) accepts five AA alkaline

batteries (use only Duracell MN1500 or Energizer E91) and provides

approximately 12 hours of operation. The adapter is intended to be

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

used in emergency situations when there is no time to charge the Li­ion battery pack.

To insert batteries into the adapter:

1. Remove the three Philips-head screws to remove the battery

(alkaline or rechargeable).

2. Turn over the alkaline battery adapter and remove the two

Philips screws.

3. Lift off the cover (there are two small indexing tabs at the end

opposite the two screws).

4. Insert five fresh AA batteries as indicated by the polarity

(+/-) markings.

5. Replace the cover. Replace the two Philips screws.

6. Set the alkaline battery adapter into the RAELink3.

7. Tighten the three Philips screws.

IMPORTANT!

Alkaline batteries cannot be recharged. If you place the RAELink3 in
its Charging Cradle, the alkaline batteries will not be recharged.

Note: When replacing alkaline batteries, dispose of old ones properly.

Note: Do not mix old and new or different types of batteries. Do not

change batteries in hazardous locations.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

5.4 User Interface

The instrument’s user interface consists of the display and three
keys. The keys are:

Y/+
MODE
N/-

The LCD display provides visual feedback that includes the reading,
time, battery condition, and other functions.

Display

N/- key

Y/+ key

MODE key

[Y/+] increases values, [MODE] acts as on/off and save, and [N/-]

selects “no” and advances to the next function. In addition, [Y/+],

[MODE], and [N/-] act as “soft keys” that control different
parameters and make different selections within the instrument’s
menus. From menu to menu, each key controls a different parameter

or makes a different selection.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

6 Backlight

The LCD display is equipped with an LED backlight to assist in
reading the display under poor lighting conditions. Press any key to
turn on the backlight. It automatically turns off after 15 seconds.

7 Display

The display shows the following information:

Battery
Charge

Radio
Signal
Strength

GPS Satellite

BT Linked to xxxxxxxx

Bluetooth connection and other
status information

Radio Signal Strength Indicates signal strength in network.
GPS Satellite Shows number of GPS satellites that

RAELink3 is receiving data from. (It
must see 3 satellites for proper
mapping in ProRAE Remote.

Battery Charge Indicates battery level via bar graph.
Bluetooth Connection Status Shows which monitor the RAELink3

is connected to via Bluetooth.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

8 Operating The RAELink3

The RAELink3 operates with two simultaneous modes of data
transfer. First, it can use Bluetooth or a cable to connect to a portable
gas monitor or other compatible detector. Second, it uses radio­frequency communication to transmit and receive data with a base
station.

The following section covers configuration and operation of the
modem portion of the RAELink3. Refer to page 29 for information on
establishing a link between a RAELink3 and a portable gas monitor
or other detector.

IMPORTANT!

Before operating any RAELink3 modems in the field, test them to
make sure they are properly configured for your network.

Each RAELink3 must have the proper network ID so that it is
compatible with the AreaRAE wireless monitoring system.

9 Modes Of Operation

The RAELink3 can be configured to operate in one of eight modes:

• Host

• Remote

• Remote G

• Repeater

• LifeShirt

• ChemRAE

• DustTrak

• AP4C

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

Unless specified otherwise, the RAELink3 is factory-configured to
operate in the Remote mode. You can change the operation mode via
the configuration menu described on page 20.

9.1 Host Mode

This mode designates the RAELink3 as Host (master) in a network. It can
simultaneously communicate with numerous Remotes and Repeaters.

Note: There can only be one Host in a network. It is typically connected to

a computer (PC) running ProRAE Remote software for monitoring.

After the modem is properly configured, connect the serial interface
cable to the PC’s serial (RS-232) port. If the computer does not have
a serial port, use a USB-to-9-pin Serial Adapter (part number 410­0210-000) to connect the cable to the computer. The DB9 connector
should be firmly attached to the computer’s DB9 serial port (insert the
connector into the receptacle and then finger-tighten the connector’s
two long screws). Connect the other end of the cable to the data
connector on the RAELink3. Turn on power to the RAELink3. It is
now ready for data communication.

Serial Interface

Cable

USB to 9-pin

Adapter

Computer’s

USB Port

RAELink3

9.2 Remote Mode

In this mode, the modem passes all data from the monitor to the Host.
The LCD displays the radio signal strength, GPS satellites, and
battery charge. The Bluetooth connection status is also displayed on
the LCD screen.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

Remote Mode is designed so that a RAELink3 modem can be used as
a drop-in replacement for an existing RAELink or RAELink2 modem
without modification.

9.3 Remote G Mode

In this mode, the modem passes all data from a GammaRAEII R to
the Host. All other functionality is the same as when the RAELink3
Z1 is in Remote Mode.

9.4 Repeater Mode

In this mode, the modem functions as a repeater. It does not interpret
or process the data that passes through it. Its function is to extend the
distance between a Remote and a Host, or to route the signal to deal
with obstructions to line-of-sight communication.

9.5 Third-Party Modes

For LifeShirt, ChemRAE, DustTrak, and AP4C. In these modes,

the modem passes all data from the slected third-party device to a
host. All other functionality is the same as when the RAELink3 Z1 is
in Remote Mode.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

10 Turning The RAELink3 On

1. Press and hold [MODE].

2. When the display turns on, release the [MODE] key.

The RAE Systems logo should appear first. (If the logo does not
appear, there is likely a problem and you should contact your
distributor or RAE Systems Technical Support.) The firmware
version is shown, along with the date of installation, and then the
RAELink3’s serial number.

Once the startup procedure is complete, the instrument shows a
numerical reading screen with antenna signal strength, battery
capacity, and GPS icons, and (if GPS is turned on) the number of
satellites the RAELink3 is receiving positioning data from.

A text line shows the Bluetooth connectivity status and indicates the
ID of the last Bluetooth-linked monitor. This indicates that the
instrument is fully functional and ready to use.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

11 Turning The RAELink3 Off

1. Press and hold the Mode key for 3 seconds. A 5-second

countdown to shutoff begins.

2. When you see “Unit off...” release your finger from the

[MODE] key. The instrument is now off.

Note: You must hold your finger on the key for the entire shutoff

process. If you remove your finger from the key during the
countdown, the shutoff operation is canceled and the instrument
continues normal operation.

12 Configuring The RAELink3

The RAELink3 modem is a programmable “smart” modem that can
be configured to operate in Host, Repeater, or Remote modes. These
options are selected in Programming Mode, along with other
parameters for setting the Network ID, Unit ID, GPS on/off state,
GPS coordinates check, Modem menu and Bluetooth control. All
configurations are performed using the three front-panel keys and the
display.

12.1 Accessing Programming Mode

Note: You can exit Programming Mode at any time by pressing

[MODE], except when in the Set Network ID and Set Unit ID menu
screens.

With the RAELink3 turned on, press and hold both [MODE] and

[N/-] for 3 seconds. The RAELink3 enters programming mode. The

Bluetooth communication screen is displayed:

Start BT Search?
* (1) 596-000123
(2) Null

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

It shows the last Bluetooth pairing ID and asks if you want to search
for a connection. (If no connection was recorded, then “Null” is
shown.)

Note: When Programming Mode is accessed, the icons are minimized

and relocated to the top of the display.

If you want to search for a Bluetooth-equipped monitor and pair with
it, press [Y/+]. If not, press [N/-] to move to the next screen. If you
want to exit Programming Mode, press [MODE].

12.2 Setting The Network ID

Every AreaRAE network must have a Network ID, which identifies
that network and all equipment operating in that network. All
RAELink3 (or other RAELink model) Host, Repeater, and Remote
wireless modems in the same AreaRAE network need to be
configured with the same Network ID.

RAELink3 modems come from the factory programmed to a unique
random network ID, or programmed to match an existing system as
specified by the customer. To enable a different Network ID, the

number must be set to a value between 1 and 4095, except 255.

When changing the Network ID, the cursor flashes on the selected
digit, highlighting it and indicating that you can change it:

Network ID: 0001

0001

1. Press [Y/+] to increase the number or [N/-] to decrease the

number.

2. Press [MODE] to advance to the next digit.

3. Input a network ID (except 255).

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

To accept the new Network ID, press and hold [MODE] for 2
seconds. A confirmation screen appears, as shown here:

Network ID: 0001

1234 Save?

Press [Y/+] to save, or press [N/-] to abort the change.

If you save the Network ID, you see this display as it saves:

Network ID: 1234

Saving...

When it is done, the display returns to the Set Network ID screen,
showing the new Network ID:

Network ID: 1234

Change?

If you want to change the Network ID, repeat the procedure.

To progress to the next screen, Set Operation Mode, press [N/-].

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

12.3 Set Operation Mode

The Operation Mode designates whether the RAELink3 operates as a
Host, Remote, or Repeater.

IMPORTANT!

There can only be one Host in a network. If more than one RAELink3
or earlier-generation RAELink wireless modem (or combination) is
designated as a Host, the network will not function properly.

The operation mode program screen is as below:

OP Mode: Remote

Change?

Press [Y/+] to change the Operation Mode, or press [N/+] to skip it.

If you press [Y/+], you see the Operation Mode (OP Mode) screen:

OP Mode: Remote
OP Mode= Host?

Press [N/-] to step through the eight options:

• Host

• Remote

• Remote G

• Repeater

• LifeShirt

• ChemRAE

• DustTrak

• AP4C

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

Once you have made your selection, press [Y/+] to save the change.

OP Mode: Host
Saving…

After the change is saved, the display returns to the beginning screen
for Operation Mode (your choice of Operation Mode is shown):

OP Mode: Host

Change?

Press [Y/+] if you want to change the Operation Mode, or press [N/+]
to advance to the GPS Power Control screen.

12.4 GPS Power Control

The onboard GPS can be turned on or off. The GPS Power Control
screen is shown here:

GPS Status: On
Turn Off?

Press [Y/+] to change the power status, or press [N/-] to skip to next
menu screen, GPS Coordinates Output.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

If you change the power status of the onboard GPS, there is no
confirmation screen. However, the status is updated immediately:

GPS Status: Off
Turn On?

When you are satisfied with the GPS status, you can advance to the
next menu screen, GPS Coordinates Check, by pressing [N/-].

12.5 GPS Coordinates Check

Check the RAELink3’s GPS location in this menu screen. If you want
to have the coordinates checked and shown in the display, press
[Y/+]. If not, press [N/-] to skip to the next menu screen.

GPS Coordinates
Check?

If you press [Y/+], the GPS coordinates are displayed as shown (the
x’s are replaced by degrees, minutes, and seconds):

North:xx.xxxx
West:xx.xxxx
Quit?

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

Press [Y/+] to quit. (Pressing [N/-] or [MODE] does not change the
screen.) The first screen of GPS Coordinates Check is shown:

GPS Coordinates
Check?

Press [N/-] to advance to the next screen, Bluetooth Power Control.

12.6 Bluetooth Power Control

The onboard Bluetooth connection can be turned on or off. The
Bluetooth Power Control screen is shown here:

UnitLK:BT Search
Turn Off?

Press [Y/+] to change the on/off status, or press [N/-] to skip to next
menu screen, Set Unit ID.

If you press [Y/+] and change the on/off status, the status is toggled
and the screen displays the change:

UnitLK:BT Search
Turn On?

When you are satisfied with the Bluetooth status, you can advance to
the next menu screen, Set Unit ID, by pressing [N/-].

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

12.7 Setting The Unit ID

Each Remote Unit in an AreaRAE network must be assigned a unique
Unit ID (between 00 and 99). Make sure that the unit ID is not
duplicated among any of the Remote units within the same AreaRAE
network.

Note: Sometimes the Unit ID is set on the remote monitor (for example,

on a MiniRAE3000 or MultiRAE Plus), and sometimes it is set on the
RAELink3 attached to a monitor (such as a GammaRAEII R).

Note: When RAELink3 is configured as a Repeater or Host, it does
not require a Unit ID. Therefore, the Set Unit ID Menu is not

applicable in this mode.

When RAELink3 is configured as a Remote, the Set Unit ID menu
screen looks like this:

Unit ID: 01
Change?

Press [Y/+] if you want to change the Unit ID. When changing the
Unit ID, the cursor flashes on the selected digit, highlighting it and
indicating that you can change it:

Unit ID: 01
21

1. Press [Y/+] to increase the number or [N/-] to decrease the

number.

2. Press [MODE] to advance to the next digit.

3. Input a Unit ID (00 through 99).

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

To accept the new Unit ID, press and hold [MODE] for 2 seconds. A
confirmation screen appears, as shown here:

Unit ID: 01
21 Save?

Press [Y/+] to save, or press [N/-] to abort the change.

If you save the Unit ID, you see this display as it saves:

Unit ID: 21
Saving...

When it is done, the display returns to the Set Unit ID screen,
showing the new Unit ID:

Unit ID: 21
Change?

If you want to change the Unit ID, repeat the procedure.

To progress to the next screen, press [N/-]-Key.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

12.8 Modem Configuration Menu

In this program mode, the onboard modem configuration menu can be
output and accessed via PC using a HyperTerminal program.

IMPORTANT!

Do not enter and change any parameters in this menu unless directed
to do so by authorized technical support personnel.

Note: The RAELink3 must be connected to a computer with a cable,

and a HyperTerminal program must be running.

The Modem Configuration screen is shown here:

Modem Menu
Enter?

Press [Y/+] to output the modem menu to a PC, or press [N/-] to skip
to the beginning of the programming menus

Alternatively, you can press [MODE] to exit Programming Mode.

13 Connecting A RAELink3 Remote
Via Bluetooth

When you turn on a RAELink3 modem configured as a Remote, and
its Bluetooth Power Control is set to “on,” the RAELink3 can
communicate wirelessly with a portable gas monitor (such as a
MiniRAE 3000, or ppbRAE 3000).

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

If you see this screen when you turn on the RAELink3 Remote, then
you must turn on the Bluetooth. See page 26 for details that cover
turning Bluetooth on and off.

BT Power Off

When Bluetooth is on and a link to a Bluetooth device is established,
you see this screen (otherwise, you see “No Record” or “Power Off”):

Note: If the RAELink3 is new and/or has never established a

connection before, the display shows this message, indicating that no
ID number has been previously stored:

The RAELink3 can scan for Bluetooth-enabled monitors, and stores
up to 2 connections in memory for faster re-deployment.

Follow these steps to connect a RAELink3 to a monitor via
Bluetooth:

1. Turn on the Bluetooth-enabled monitor. Make sure it is set up

to run Bluetooth (Bluetooth is turned on).

2. Turn on the RAELink3. It should be in Remote Mode, and

Bluetooth turned on.

Important! If you are re-pairing the RAELink3 with the

primary Bluetooth detector in its memory (indicated by an

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

asterisk next to the serial number), Step 3 can be skipped.

3. Enter Programming Mode. Press and hold [MODE] and [N/-]

for 3 seconds. This screen appears:

If you want to search for a Bluetooth-enabled monitor and
have it paired with the RAELink3, press [Y/+]. It begins
searching, and you see a screen like this:

Note: If multiple monitors will be in your network, it is

fastest to turn one monitor and one RAELink3 on at a time
for this initial pairing.

When a successful pairing is made, the screen lists the
monitor’s ID number and gives this message in the display:

Note: The primary Bluetooth connection is indicated with an

asterisk.

If you want the RAELink3 to search again, press [Y/+]. If
you want to proceed to the next step in Programming Mode,
press [N/-]. To exit to the main screen, press [MODE].

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

Note: Upon powering on, the RAELink3 automatically

searches for the primary Bluetooth device indicated by the
asterisk in memory.

4. The two units connect and exchange ID numbers. The ID

number of the monitor is shown below the icons.

5. They are now connected.

14 Connecting A RAELink3 Remote
Via Cable

Connect a portable gas monitor (PGM) such as a ppbRAE Plus, MiniRAE
2000, or MultiRAE Plus to the RAELink3 configured as a Remote using
the optional Portable Coiled Cable (part number 400-0189-000).

• Connect the serial cable’s 4-pin circular connector to the monitor.

(Third-party sensor or detector units require a cable that comes with
the specifically configured RAELink3.)

• Connect the other end to the RAELink3.

Note: The cable connector that fits the RAELink3’s multi-function

receptacle has a locking ring. Align the cable’s connector plug with
the RAELink3’s receptacle using the key and notch as a guide. Press

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

the connector into place, and then turn the connector’s locking ring to
tighten the connection. Never force the connector in or out of the
receptacle.

14.1 GPS And Unobstructed Line Of Sight

GPS receivers operate by line of sight with global positioning
satellites. A receiver must be able to get signals from at least three
satellites in order to calculate longitude and latitude (there are
currently 30 GPS satellites orbiting the earth). The more satellites a
GPS receiver can “see,” the more accurate and reliable the
positioning.

For a GPS-equipped RAELink3 (or any other GPS device) to work
properly, it must have a direct line of sight to a satellite, meaning it
will not work well (if at all) indoors. Although radio signals from
navigation satellites can pass through clouds, glass, plastic and other
lightweight materials, satellite navigation receivers do not work
underground or in other enclosed spaces.

If you need to operate a monitor under a roof or anything else that
obstructs a clear view of the sky, you may need to take the RAELink3
outdoors into a nearby clear area, perform a manual GPS Coordinates
Check (see page 25), and then either allow those coordinates to be
used on maps in ProRAE Remote running on a host computer, or
input them manually.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

14.2 Cleaning The RAELink3

Occasional cleaning with a soft cloth is recommended. Do not use
detergents or chemicals.

Visually inspect the contacts on the rear of the RAELink3, on the
battery, and on the Charging Cradle to make sure they are clean. If
they are not, wipe them with a soft, dry cloth. Never use solvents,
abrasives, or cleaners.

14.3 Ordering Replacement Parts

In the U.S., you can order sensors, replacement batteries, and other
accessories online at:

http://istore.raesystems.com/

14.4 Special Servicing Note

If the instrument needs to be serviced, contact:

The RAE Systems Technical Service Department. Before returning
the instrument for service or repair, obtain a Returned Material
Authorization (RMA) number for proper tracking of your equipment.
This number needs to be on all documentation and posted on the
outside of the box in which the instrument is returned for service or
upgrade. Packages without RMA Numbers will be refused at the
factory.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

15 Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Reasons & Solutions

Cannot turn on power
after charging the

battery

Charge or replace battery.

Remote unit not
communicating with
Host Controller

Confirm RAELink3 is in Remote mode
Check the Network ID
Check battery charge on the Remote unit
Make sure you have a unique Unit ID on
each RAELink3 or device connected to a
RAELink3.
Check the cable or Bluetooth connection
between the RAELink3 and the remote
device

Device does not link
with RAELink3 via
Bluetooth.

Make sure device’s Bluetooth is turned on.
Make sure the RAELink3 is in Bluetooth
search mode.
If this is the first time connecting, allow
time to link.

RAELink3 is not
picking up satellites to
load a map in ProRAE
Remote.

Make sure GPS is turned on.
Make sure the RAELink3 has unobstructed
view of the sky.

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

16 Technical Support

To contact RAE Systems Technical Support Team:

Monday through Friday, 7:00AM to 5:00PM Pacific (US) Time
Phone (toll-free): [phone]
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Life-critical after-hours support is available:

[phone] select option 9

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

17 RAE Systems Contacts

RAE Systems
World Headquarters

3775 N. First St.
San Jose, CA 95134-1708 USA

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]
Web Site: www.raesystems.com

RAE Systems Technical Support

Monday through Friday, 7:00AM to 5:00PM Pacific Time

Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Life-critical after-hours support is available:

+1.408.952.8200 select option 9

RAE Systems Europe ApS

Kirstinehøj 23 A
DK-2770 Kastrup
Denmark

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

[e-mail]
[e-mail]

Web: www.raesystems.eu

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

RAE Systems UK Ltd

D5 Culham Innovation Centre
Culham Science Centre
Abingdon, Oxon OX14 3DB
United Kingdom

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Mobile: [phone]

Email:

[e-mail]

RAE Systems France

336, rue de la fée des eaux
69390 Vernaison
France

Phone: +

33 4 78 46 16 65

Fax: +

33 4 78 46 25 98

Email:

[e-mail]

Web: www.raesystems.fr

RAE BeNeLux BV

Rijndal 20
2904 DC Capelle a/d IJssel

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Email:

[e-mail]

Web:

www.rae.nl

RAE Systems Spain, s.l.

Av. Remolar, 31
08820 El Prat de Llobregat
Spain

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Mobile:

[phone]

Email:

[e-mail]

Web:

www.raespain.com

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RAELink3 User’s Guide

RAE Systems Middle East

LOB 7, Ground Floor, Office 19,
Jebel Ali Free Zone
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

RAE Systems (Hong Kong) Ltd.

Room 8, 6/F, Hong Leong Plaza
33 Lok Yip Road
Fanling, N.T, Hong Kong

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Email:

[e-mail]

RAE Systems Japan

403 Plaza Ochanomizu Bldg. 2-1
Surugadai Kanda Chiyoda-Ku
Tokyo, Japan

Phone:

81-3-5283-3268

Fax:

81-3-5283-3275

Email:

[e-mail]

RAE Systems Korea

#1010, DaeMyungAnsVill First,
Sang-Dong 412-2, Wonmi-Gu, Bucheon,
Kyungki-Do, Korea

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

39

RAE Systems

World Headquarters

3775 N. First St.

San Jose, CA 95134-1708 USA

Phone: [phone]

Toll-Free: 888.723.4800

Fax: [phone]

E-mail (sales support): [e-mail]

Web Site: www.raesystems.com

Technical Support

Phone: [phone] (Mon-Fri, 7AM-5PM, PST)

Email: [e-mail]

Training

Courses: www.raesystems.com/support

Email: [e-mail]

Product Registration

www.raesystems.com/support/product-registration

RAE Systems Europe

Kirstinehøj 23A, DK-2770 Kastrup • Denmark

Phone: [phone] • Fax: [phone]

Web: www.raesystems.eu • Email: [e-mail]

RAE Systems (Hong Kong) Ltd.

Units 1516-18, 15/F, Delta House, 3 On Yiu Street

Shatin, N.T. Hong Kong

Phone: [phone] • Fax: [phone]

Web: www.raesystems.com.hk

Email: [e-mail]

RAE Systems Middle East

LOB 7, Ground Floor, Office 19, Jebel Ali Free Zone

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Email: [e-mail] • Phone: [phone]

Rev. B

August 2010

P/N 029-4508-000