USER'S GUIDE
Vaisala Radiosonde
RS92-K and RS92-KL
M210299EN-D
PUBLISHED BY
Vaisala Oyj Phone (int.): +358 9 8949 1
P.O. Box 26 Fax: +358 9 8949 2227
FIN-00421 Helsinki
Finland
Visit our Internet pages at http://www.vaisala.com/
© Vaisala 2007
No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical (including photocopying), nor may its contents
be communicated to a third party without prior written permission of the
copyright holder.
The contents are subject to change without prior notice.
Please observe that this manual does not create any legally binding
obligations for Vaisala towards the customer or end user. All legally
binding commitments and agreements are included exclusively in the
applicable supply contract or Conditions of Sale.
________________________________________________________________________________
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1
GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Contents of This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Version Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Related Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
General Safety Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Feedback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Product Related Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Recycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
License Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
CHAPTER 2
PRODUCT OVERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Introduction to Vaisala RS92-K and RS92-KL . . . . . . . . . .11
CHAPTER 3
OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Preparing the Balloon and
Optional Sounding Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Balloon Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Optional Sounding Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Totex Parachute 5710-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Radar Reflector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Non-Totex Parachute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Unpacking the Radiosonde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Performing Sounding Preparations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Connecting the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Connecting the Water-activated Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Launching the Radiosonde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Attaching the Unwinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Attaching the Unwinder to the Balloon. . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Totex Parachute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Radar Reflector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Non-Totex Parachute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Releasing the Balloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Checking the Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Monitoring the Sounding with the
DigiCORA® Sounding System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
VAISALA________________________________________________________________________ 1
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
CHAPTER 4
STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
CHAPTER 5
FAILURE REPORT AND WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Failure Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Radiosonde Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Vaisala Radiosonde Warranty Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Storage Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Transportation and Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Criteria for Radiosonde Failures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Making Warranty Claims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
APPENDIX A
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR BALLOON OPERATORS . . . . . . . . . . . .39
2 ___________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
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List of Figures
Figure 1 Vaisala Radiosonde RS92-K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Figure 2 Loading Weights onto the Gas Nozzle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Figure 3 Attaching the Balloon to the Gas Nozzle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Figure 4 Inflating the Balloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Figure 5 Balloon Raises the Gas Nozzle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Figure 6 Securing the Neck of the Balloon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Figure 7 Removing the Balloon from the Gas Nozzle . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Figure 8 Folding the Neck of the Balloon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Figure 9 Vaisala Radiosonde Sounding Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Figure 10 Opening the Foil Bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Figure 11 Contents of the Radiosonde Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Figure 12 Unwinder Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Figure 13 Vaisala Ground Check Set GC25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Figure 14 Radiosonde in the GC25 with the
Communication Cable Connected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Figure 15 Placing the Sensor Boom into Flight Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Figure 16 Water-activated Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Figure 17 Battery Package for Water-Activated Battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Figure 18 Battery Immersed in Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Figure 19 Battery in the Casing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Figure 20 Connecting the Battery Connector to the Radiosonde. . . . . . .29
Figure 21 Attaching the Unwinder to the Balloon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
VAISALA________________________________________________________________________ 3
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
4 ___________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
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List of Tables
Table 1 Manual Versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Table 2 Related Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Table 3 Ordering Codes for Optional Sounding Accessories . . . . . . . . . .19
VAISALA________________________________________________________________________ 5
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
6 ___________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
Chapter 1 ________________________________________________________ General Information
CHAPTER 1
GENERAL INFORMATION
This chapter provides general notes for the manual and the product.
About This Manual
This manual provides information for operating the Vaisala Radiosonde
RS92-K and RS92-KL.
Contents of This Manual
This manual consists of the following chapters:
- Chapter 1, General Information: This chapter provides general
notes for the manual and the product.
- Chapter 2, Product Overview: This chapter introduces the features
and advantages of the radiosonde.
- Chapter 3, Operation: This chapter contains information that is
needed to operate this product.
- Chapter 4, Storage and Transportation: This chapter provides
information for the transport and storage of the product.
- Chapter 5, Failure Report and Warranty: This chapter presents
information about the failure report and radiosonde warranty.
- Appendix A, Safety Instructions for Balloon Operators: This
appendix contains details of safe and proper balloon preparation.
VAISALA________________________________________________________________________ 7
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Version Information
Table 1 Manual Versions
Manual Code Description
M210299EN-D This manual
M210299EN-C Previous version
Related Manuals
Table 2 Related Manuals
Manual Code Manual Name
M210329EN Ground Check Set GC25 User's Guide
M210488EN Vaisala DigiCORA® User's Guide
M010024EN DigiCORA II MW15 User's Guide
M210811EN Configuring and Operating MW11/15 Systems,
RS92 Radiosonde, and GC25 Using Cable
Connection
WARNING
CAUTION
NOTE
General Safety Considerations
Throughout the manual, important safety considerations are highlighted
as follows:
Warning alerts you to a serious hazard. If you do not read and follow
instructions very carefully at this point, there is a risk of injury or even
death.
Caution warns you of a potential hazard. If you do not read and follow
instructions carefully at this point, the product could be damaged or
important data could be lost.
Note highlights important information on using the product.
8 ___________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
Chapter 1 ________________________________________________________ General Information
Feedback
Vaisala Customer Documentation Team welcomes your comments and
suggestions on the quality and usefulness of this publication. If you find
errors or have other suggestions for improvement, please indicate the
chapter, section, and page number. You can send comments to us by email: manuals@vaisala.com.
Product Related Safety Precautions
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
CAUTION
CAUTION
Conduct soundings in a safe environment and in accordance with all
applicable restrictions and regulations.
Do not use the radiosonde in an area with power lines or other
obstructions overhead. Make sure that you check the area for such
obstructions before using the radiosonde.
Do not use the radiosonde without consultation and cooperation with
local and other applicable aviation authorities.
Do not modify the unit. Improper modification can damage the
product or lead to malfunction.
Do not use the radiosonde for any purpose other than for soundings.
NOTE
VAISALA________________________________________________________________________ 9
Follow the local regulations for radio communications and
telecommunications.
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Recycle all applicable material.
Dispose of batteries and the unit according to statutory regulations.
Do not dispose of with regular household refuse.
Recycling
License Agreement
All rights to any software are held by Vaisala or third parties. The
customer is allowed to use the software only to the extent that is
provided by the applicable supply contract or Software License
Agreement.
10 __________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
Chapter 2 __________________________________________________________ Product Overview
CHAPTER 2
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
This chapter introduces the features and advantages of the radiosonde.
Introduction to Vaisala RS92-K and RS92-KL
The Vaisala Radiosonde RS92-K and RS92-KL offer excellent
accuracy in humidity, pressure, and temperature measurement. These
radisondes feature a heated twin humidity sensor, a silicon pressure
sensor, and a small, fast temperature sensor.
The RS92-KL uses Loran-C windfinding. The RS92-K is used for PTU
measurement, and, for example, a radar can be used for windfinding.
The RS92-K and RS92-KL are tuned at the factory to the default
frequency of 403 MHz. The frequency can be adjusted within the
400.15 to 406 MHz telemetry band.
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 11
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
0710-105
Figure 1 Vaisala Radiosonde RS92-K
1 = Hole for frequency tuning (covered by tape)
2 = Battery casing
3 = Antenna
4 = Temperature sensor
5 = Humidity sensors
6 = Sensor boom
7 = GC25 interface
The Vaisala Radiosonde RS92-K and RS92-KL can be used with the
Vaisala DigiCORA® Sounding System MW31 and MW21, and the
Vaisala DigiCORA® Sounding System MW11, MW12, or MW15.
12 __________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
Chapter 3 ________________________________________________________________ Operation
CHAPTER 3
OPERATION
This chapter contains information that is needed to operate this product.
General
It is essential that you carry out the pre-launch steps as instructed and
always in the same way. Follow the instructions in the following
sections and refer to Appendix A on page 39 for proper and safe balloon
preparation.
The workorder for a sounding is as follows:
1. Prepare the balloon and optional sounding accessories.
2. Unpack the radiosonde.
3. Perform sounding preparations.
4. Connect the battery.
5. Launch the radiosonde.
6. Monitor the sounding with the DigiCORA® Sounding System.
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 13
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Preparing the Balloon and Optional Sounding Accessories
The balloon and optional sounding accessories must be prepared before
connecting the radiosonde battery and thereby activating the
radiosonde. This is necessary because the radiosonde should be
launched within 15 minutes of battery connection.
WARNING
WARNING
Read the safety instructions in Appendix A before proceeding.
Normally the balloon lifting gas (hydrogen or helium) is supplied in
gas bottles, but hydrogen can also be produced with a hydrogen
generator. Carefully study the operation and safety instructions for the
gas bottle facilities or the hydrogen generator.
Take extreme caution when handling the inflated balloon.
Balloon Preparation
It is recommended that the balloon is prepared in a balloon filling shed.
The balloon filling shed must be well ventilated so that possible gas
leaks flow out of the shed, even in situations when there is no
electricity.
Follow these steps to prepare the balloon:
1. Load weights that are needed to obtain the required lift onto the gas
nozzle.
0705-020
Figure 2 Loading Weights onto the Gas Nozzle
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Chapter 3 ________________________________________________________________ Operation
2. Attach the balloon to the gas nozzle by securing the balloon with a
piece of string or a clamp.
0705-017
Figure 3 Attaching the Balloon to the Gas Nozzle
3. Inflate the balloon following the balloon manufacturer’s inflation
instructions. Do not leave the balloon-filling shed while inflating
the balloon.
0705-018
Figure 4 Inflating the Balloon
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 15
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
4. When the balloon is sufficiently filled, in other words, the balloon
just raises the gas nozzle, close the gas valve.
0705-019
Figure 5 Balloon Raises the Gas Nozzle
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Chapter 3 ________________________________________________________________ Operation
5. Secure the neck of the balloon tightly with a string and remove the
balloon from the gas nozzle.
0706-105
Figure 6 Securing the Neck of the Balloon
0705-021
Figure 7 Removing the Balloon from the Gas Nozzle
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 17
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
6. Fold the neck of the balloon over and secure firmly. Tie the string
high enough to ensure that the unwinder fits easily.
0705-022
Figure 8 Folding the Neck of the Balloon
7. Leave the balloon waiting in the balloon filling shed while you
prepare the radiosonde. Make sure the balloon does not touch
anything. Hold the balloon by the neck.
Optional Sounding Accessories
The Radiosonde RS92 unwinder RSU911 is designed to be attached
directly to the folded balloon neck. However, you can use the same
unwinder if you use optional sounding accessories such as a parachute
or a radar reflector.
Always attach the unwinder to a relatively firm support such as the
balloon or the parachute spreader. The support must not let the
unwinder twist freely, or otherwise the balloon string might unwind at
a too high speed and the radiosonde hit the ground during the launch.
The unwinder must also be able to swing slightly during the sounding.
Attach all optional sounding accessories next to the balloon, or
otherwise they disturb the measuring environment of the radiosonde
and no proper temperature and humidity measurements can be made.
18 __________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
Chapter 3 ________________________________________________________________ Operation
CAUTION
The strength of all the strings used during soundings must exceed 25
kp (250 N). Knots in the strings weaken the strength to the minimum
of 40 % of the original string strength. This results in a string strength
of 10 kp (100 N) which is sufficient for RS92-SGP soundings.
Table 3 Ordering Codes for Optional Sounding Accessories
Item Code Note
Totex parachute 15046
Rubber plate RS46158 Used with a radar reflector
Hanger board RS46157 Used with a non-Totex parachute
Totex Parachute 5710-5
The recommended parachute is the Totex type 5710-5 (Vaisala code
15046). In the Totex parachute an elastic ribbon loop hangs the
unwinder securily under the spreader.
Attach the parachute directly to the balloon with the parachute string.
See Figure 9 on page 21 for details. For unwinder attaching instructions,
see section Totex Parachute on page 31.
Radar Reflector
When using a radar reflector, it prevents the unwinder from swinging.
Therefore, attach the unwinder to the reflector with a rubber plate
accessory (Vaisala code RS46158), which lets the unwinder swing, and
the balloon string is unwind smoothly.
1. Tie the radar reflector to the balloon with a string of approximately
50 cm in length.
2. Attach the rubber plate (RS46158) to the radar reflector.
See Figure 9 on page 21 for details. For unwinder attaching instructions,
see section Radar Reflector on page 31.
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 19
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Non-Totex Parachute
If you are using a parachute that has no firm objects to prevent the
unwinder from twisting, you have to use a hanger board (Vaisala code
RS46157).
1. Tie the parachute to the balloon with a string.
2. Tie the hanger board to the parachute with a string of
approximately 20 cm in length.
See Figure 9 on page 21 for details. For unwinder attaching instructions,
see section Non-Totex Parachute on page 31.
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Chapter 3 ________________________________________________________________ Operation
0705-045
Figure 9 Vaisala Radiosonde Sounding Accessories
Option 1 = Sounding with a Totex parachute
Option 2 = Sounding with no sounding accessories
Option 3 = Sounding with a radar reflector
Option 4 = Sounding with a non-Totex Parachute
Now you can proceed to unpack the radiosonde.
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 21
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Unpacking the Radiosonde
Follow these steps to unpack the radiosonde.
CAUTION
Do not touch or hit the sensors on the sensor boom. By carefully
handling the radiosonde and the sensor boom you ensure that the
radiosonde functions properly during sounding.
1. Open the foil bag as indicated on the bag.
0705-023
Figure 10 Opening the Foil Bag
2. Lift the cardboard flap protecting the sensor boom. Be careful to
avoid touching or hitting the sensors on the sensor boom.
0710-106
Figure 11 Contents of the Radiosonde Package
1 = Radiosonde
2 = Unwinder
3=Battery
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Chapter 3 ________________________________________________________________ Operation
3. Remove the radiosonde from the package, free the antenna, and
take the unwinder out of the package.
4. Make sure the plastic lip, under which the string runs, is level with
the unwinder bottom plate. If the lip is bent, bend it gently back to
level the position.
0601-050
Figure 12 Unwinder Details
Proceed to perform the sounding preparations.
Performing Sounding Preparations
When performing the sounding preparations, the Vaisala Ground Check
Set GC25 is connected to the DigiCORA® sounding system via cable
and operated with the help of the DigiCORA® sounding software.
NOTE
If you are using DigiCORA® Sounding System MW21, software
version < 3.12, or MW15, MW12 or MW11, software version < 8.311,
refer to the Ground Check Set GC25 User’s Guide for information on
using the GC25 in the stand-alone mode.
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 23
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
0705-025
Figure 13 Vaisala Ground Check Set GC25
1 = Chamber
2=Display
3 = Buttons
4 = Communication cable
5 = Radiosonde tray
6=Power switch
Follow these steps to perform the sounding preparations.
1. Open the chamber of the Ground Check Set and place the
radiosonde onto the radiosonde tray. Close the chamber.
2. Connect the communication cable to the Ground Check Set
interface in the radiosonde. Text "UP" on the connector faces
upwards.
0710-107
Figure 14 Radiosonde in the GC25 with the
Communication Cable Connected
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Chapter 3 ________________________________________________________________ Operation
3. Switch on the PC and start a new sounding with the DigiCORA®
sounding software. For detailed instructions on using the software,
refer to the DigiCORA® User’s Guide.
4. Switch on the Ground Check Set by pressing the power switch. The
green LED in the power switch is lit.
5. If needed, tune the radiosonde frequency.
The radiosonde is tuned at the factory to the default frequency of
403 MHz. You can adjust it within the 400.15 to 406 MHz band
with the tuning potentiometer provided with the Ground Check Set
GC25. The hole for frequency tuning, covered by tape, is located
in the upper left corner of the radiosonde.
NOTE
The tuning potentiometer has to be a ceramic Phillips head trimmer. It
is included in the Ground Check Set delivery. If you do not have a
proper tuning potentiometer, you can order it from Vaisala (order code
214513).
- Partially detach the tape so that only the frequency tuning hole
is revealed. Leave the other end of the tape attached to the
radiosonde.
- Wait until the sounding software is in Track mode (display
shows 40x.xx Hz Trck...).
- Turn the tuning screw clockwise with the potentiometer to
lower the frequency and counterclockwise to increase the
frequency. Adjust the frequency carefully, staying between
400.4 ... 405.6 MHz. These limits ensure that the transmitter
does not drift outside the available band of 400.15 ... 406
MHz. You can see the frequency changing in the sounding
software when you turn the screw.
- Re-attach the tape to cover the tuning hole. The tuning hole
has to be covered during sounding to prevent water from
penetrating into the radiosonde electronics.
6. The DigiCORA® sounding software goes through reconditioning,
timer setting, and ground checking. Set the timer when the ground
equipment prompts for it. Add an average of 30 minutes to the
targeted sounding or transmission time.
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 25
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
NOTE
CAUTION
The timer countdown is different for analog (RS92-K and RS92-KL)
and digital radiosondes (for example, RS92-SGP): For analog
radiosondes, the timer countdown starts on the ground, beginning
when the radiosonde is connected to the Ground Check Set. Therefore,
you have to add some extra time to the timer to be able to activate and
connect the battery and launch the radiosonde. For digital radisondes,
the timer countdown starts from launch detect, and, therefore, no extra
time is required.
7. When the DigiCORA® sounding software is finished, the message
"Ready for sonde release" appears on the display. Remove the
radiosonde from the Ground Check Set and disconnect the
communication cable.
8. The back of the radiosonde facing you, press the sensor boom
gently forward with your thumbs until the plastic clips on both
sides click and the sensor boom sits firmly in the bended position.
Only touch the bottom of the boom. Do not touch or hit the sensors.
0710-108
Figure 15 Placing the Sensor Boom into Flight Position
The sensor boom is now in the flight position and remains so
throughout the sounding.
26 __________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
Chapter 3 ________________________________________________________________ Operation
Now proceed to connect the radiosonde battery.
Connecting the Battery
General
The RS92-K and RS92-KL are powered by the RSB931 Wateractivated Battery.
0705-030
Figure 16 Water-activated Battery
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 27
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Connecting the Water-activated Battery
Follow these steps to connect the water-activated battery:
1. Open the foil bag as indicated on the bag.
0705-028
Figure 17 Battery Package for Water-Activated Battery
2. Take the battery out of its casing.
3. Place the battery in a water container with the connectors facing
upwards and immerse in water for four minutes. Use fresh tap
water, with a temperature of 15...25 °C.
0705-040
Figure 18 Battery Immersed in Water
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Chapter 3 ________________________________________________________________ Operation
4. Take the battery out of the water after four minutes of immersion.
Do not squeeze water out of the battery.
5. Put the battery back into the casing. One end of the battery is waxed
to prevent leakage. The waxed end should point downwards.
0705-041
Figure 19 Battery in the Casing
6. Connect the battery connector to the radiosonde.
0710-109
Figure 20 Connecting the Battery Connector to the
Radiosonde
7. The radiosonde has now been activated. Close the battery casing.
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 29
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
8. Check from the DigiCORA® sounding software that the telemetry
link is working well. For detailed instructions on using the
sounding software, refer to the DigiCORA® User’s Guide.
The radiosonde is now prepared for launch. In order to ensure 120
minutes of flight time, the radiosonde has to be launched within 15
minutes of battery connection.
Proceed now to launch the radiosonde.
Launching the Radiosonde
The radiosonde is now ready for launch.
Attaching the Unwinder
The unwinder is used to unwind the suspension string gently and
slowly. To do this, the unwinder must be attached firmly so that it does
not rotate relative to the balloon. If the unwinder moves freely, the
suspension string unwinds too quickly, and it is possible that the
radiosonde hits the ground upon launch.
The unwinder is designed to be tied directly to the balloon.
If you cannot attach the unwinder directly to the balloon, for example
when using a radar reflector or a parachute, sounding accessories are
needed to restrict the movement of the unwinder. For instructions, refer
to section Optional Sounding Accessories on page 18.
Attaching the Unwinder to the Balloon
Follow these steps to attach the unwinder directly to the balloon:
1. Pass the unwinder hook through the loop created by the tied
balloon neck.
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Chapter 3 ________________________________________________________________ Operation
2. Make sure that the hook comes out the other side as shown in
Figure 21 on page 31. The unwinder is now attached firmly to the
balloon.
0705-042
Figure 21 Attaching the Unwinder to the Balloon
If you use optional sounding accessories, follow these instructions to
attach the unwinder.
Totex Parachute
The Totex parachute 5710-5 has an elastic ribbon loop below the
spreader. Attach the unwinder to the loop by pushing the hook out the
other side in the same fashion as with the folded balloon neck (see
Attaching the Unwinder to the Balloon on page 31).
Radar Reflector
There is a rubber plate attached to the radar reflector. Attach the
unwinder to this plate.
Non-Totex Parachute
There is a hanger board tied to the parachute. Attach the unwinder to the
bottom of the hanger board.
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 31
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Releasing the Balloon
In order to ensure 120 minutes of flight time, the radiosonde should be
launched within 15 minutes of battery connection.
Follow these steps to release the balloon:
1. Make sure the balloon string is not tangled.
2. Hold the unwinder to prevent the string from running out before the
release.
3. Release the balloon and allow the radiosonde to lift from your
hand. Keep the string length between the radiosonde and the
unwinder as short as possible.
Checking the Reception
Immediately after the release, check the reception of the radiosonde
frequency on the receiver.
Proceed to monitor the sounding with the DigiCORA® Sounding
System.
Monitoring the Sounding with the DigiCORA® Sounding System
If you have not already done so, enter the surface observation
information in the DigiCORA® Sounding System. Please refer to the
DigiCORA® User’s Guide for detailed instructions on using the
sounding software.
32 __________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
Chapter 4 __________________________________________________ Storage and Transportation
CHAPTER 4
STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION
This chapter provides information for the transport and storage of the
product.
Storage
Radiosondes must be stored and used properly in accordance with
applicable instructions, the User’s Manual, and specifications issued by
Vaisala.
Proper storage conditions must fulfill the following requirements:
Radiosondes must be kept in their original packaging (unopened
vacuum envelopes) in a dry, ventilated indoor storage space, and within
the following key environmental limits (ref. IEC 60721-3-1 class 1K2):
- Temperature +5 °C to +40 °C
- Relative humidity below 85%
Vaisala AUTOSONDE storage compartment requirements are:
- The maximum number of days a radiosonde can be loaded in
AUTOSONDE is 14
- Relative humidity below 50%
- Temperature +15 °C to +35 °C
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 33
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
CAUTION
The radiosonde string is not resistant to prolonged exposure to
sunlight. Store radiosondes in their original unopened vacuum
envelopes.
Transportation
Vaisala radiosondes must be transported in their original shipping
packaging. These packages are designed and built to survive and protect
their contents in the environmental conditions described herein with the
terminology and standards per standard: IEC 60721-3-2. The
transportation of radiosondes requires climatic conditions 2K2 and
mechanical conditions 2M1 of this standard:
- Transportation in weather protected conditions.
- Transportation using conventional means (car, truck, and/or
- Following additional markings on packaging.
aircraft), with free fall not exceeding 0.25 m in any circumstance.
34 __________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
Chapter 5 _________________________________________________ Failure Report and Warranty
CHAPTER 5
FAILURE REPORT AND WARRANTY
This chapter presents information about the failure report and
radiosonde warranty.
Failure Report
In case of some malfunction, write a failure report consisting of the
following issues:
- What failed (what worked / did not work)?
- Where did it fail (location and environment)?
- When did it fail (date, immediately / after a while / periodically /
- How many failed (only one defect / other same or similar defects /
- What was connected to the product and to which connectors?
- What was done when the failure was noticed?
Include the radiosonde serial number in the failure report.
randomly)?
several failures in one unit)?
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 35
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Technical Support
For technical questions, contact the Vaisala technical support:
E-mail helpdesk@vaisala.com
Fax +358 9 8949 2790
If the product needs repair, please follow the instructions below to
speed up the process and to avoid extra costs to you.
1. Read the warranty information.
2. Contact Vaisala technical support via e-mail or fax and request for
RMA (Return Material Authorization) and shipping instructions.
3. Proceed as instructed by Vaisala technical support.
NOTE
RMA must always be requested from Vaisala technical support before
returning any faulty material.
Radiosonde Warranty
The following Vaisala Radiosonde general warranty statement is
effective as of 02/2007. However, please refer to the applicable supply
contract for the specifics of your warranty terms. If there is a
discrepancy between the general radiosonde warranty statement and the
radiosonde warranty statement in the supply contract, the provisions of
the official radiosonde warranty statement in the supply contract
prevail.
Vaisala Radiosonde Warranty Statement
Vaisala repairs or, at its discretion, replaces any Vaisala RS92
radiosonde that is proven, with reasonable satisfaction, to have failed
within 13 months of shipment by reason of faulty materials or
workmanship, under the following conditions and provided that
radiosonde is stored and used properly in accordance with applicable
instructions and manuals issued by Vaisala.
36 __________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
Chapter 5 _________________________________________________ Failure Report and Warranty
Storage Conditions
Radiosonde shall be stored indoors in its original unopened vacuum
envelope within the following environmental limits:
- temperature +5 °C to +40 °C
- relative humidity below 85%
Additional storage requirements for Vaisala AUTOSONDE:
- the maximum number of days radiosonde can be loaded in
AUTOSONDE is 14
- relative humidity below 50%
- temperature +15 °C to +35 °C
Transportation and Handling
Radiosondes shall be transported in the original shipping packaging,
which is designed and built to survive and protect the contents in the
environmental conditions specified in standard IEC 60721-3-2: climatic
conditions of class 2K2, and mechanical conditions of class 2M1 of the
standard are required. Instructions on the packaging for transportation
and handling shall be followed.
Criteria for Radiosonde Failures
Pre-flight failures under warranty:
- Radiosonde fails during the sounding preparation, or ground check
correction exceeds one of the following limits:
P: ± 3 hPa
T: ± 1 °C
U: ± 4% RH (at 0% RH)
In-flight failures below altitude of 100 hPa under warranty:
- Radiosonde stops transmitting one or more parameters
- Radiosonde transmits clearly erroneous data
- There is a continuous telemetry link failure exceeding 2 minutes
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 37
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
Early termination of sounding caused by balloon burst, user error, or
any external cause, is not covered by this warranty.
Making Warranty Claims
A failure report shall be provided for each failed radiosonde stating the
radiosonde serial number, a description of the failure, and sounding site
and date. A template provided by Vaisala can be used for this.
A radiosonde found defect prior to launch shall be returned to the
nearest Vaisala office.
Report of an in-flight failure shall be accompanied by either 1) sounding
data file (MW21, MW31 and AUTOSONDE systems) or 2) sounding
status report printout (MW11/MW12/MW15 systems) for each failed
sounding.
Failure report and any radiosonde failed prior to launch shall be sent to
Vaisala within 180 days after the failure, or within a year from
extremely remote or shipborne stations.
38 __________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
Appendix A _______________________________________ Safety Instructions for Balloon Operators
APPENDIX A
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR
BALLOON OPERATORS
This appendix contains details of safe and proper balloon preparation.
Photocopy these instructions and place the list in clear view in the
balloon filling shed and in the sounding compartment.
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 39
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
1. No smoking or nake flame allowed.
2. If possible, avoid wearing clothing made of nylon or other
synthetic fibers to prevent a build-up of static charges. Do not wear
shoes with rubber soles.
3. Wear protective glasses.
4. Regularly check that the gas tube fits securely to the gas cylinder
or generator nozzle and to the balloon inflation nozzle.
5. Take care to prevent a gas leak in the shed when interrupting
inflation to replace a gas cylinder.
6. Never use a repaired balloon.
7. Should a leak develop in the balloon during inflation, do not let gas
escape from the balloon inside the shed if possible. Instead, release
the defective balloon without load. It is not advisable to deflate the
balloon, even outside the shed.
8. Do not touch the balloon with bare hands except when holding it
by the neck. Wear soft cotton gloves.
WARNING
9. Ensure that there are no pointed objects in the shed. Nails, hooks,
hinges, padlocks, etc., are dangerous as they might scratch the
inflated balloon. The balloon film is only 0.05 ... 0.1 mm thick
upon launch; the slightest scratch could cause the balloon to burst
prematurely.
10. Keep the doors of the shed shut while inflating the balloon on a
windy day. However, ensure that the shed is properly ventilated.
11. No unauthorized person shall be allowed admittance to the shed
while the hydrogen generator is in operation or balloon inflation is
going on.
12. Ensure that all tools and other implements not essential for balloon
inflation have been removed from the shed.
New operator! Carefully study the instructions for using the hydrogen
generator and for the correct method of inflation.
40 __________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
____________________________________________________________________________ Index
INDEX
A
accessories 18
activating the radiosonde 27
attaching the unwinder 30
B
balloon
folding the neck 18
handling 14, 39
inflating 14
lifting gas 14
releasing 32
safety instructions 39
securing the neck 17
tying 17
balloon filling shed 14
battery
connecting 27, 28
water-activated battery 27
C
checking reception 32
connecting the battery 27
D
DigiCORA® 23, 32
F
failure report 35
failures covered by warranty 37
faulty material 36
folding the balloon neck 18
frequency tuning 25
G
gas nozzle
attaching the balloon 15
loading weights 14
removing the balloon 17
Ground Check Set GC25 23
interface 12
parts 24
ground checking 25
guarantee 36
H
handling the balloon 14, 39
I
inflating the balloon 14
L
launching the radiosonde 30
M
monitoring the sounding 32
N
non-Totex parachute 20, 31
O
optional sounding accessories 14, 18
non-Totex parachute 20
ordering codes 19
radar reflector 19
Totex parachute 19
ordering codes
optional sounding accessories 19
P
performing sounding preparations 23
R
radar reflector 19, 31
radiosonde
activating 27
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 41
User's Guide ______________________________________________________________________
battery 27
features 11
launching 30
sensor boom 26
storing 33
transportation and handling 33
unpacking 22
warranty 36
reception, checking 32
reconditioning 25
recycling 10
releasing the balloon 32
reporting failures 35
returning faulty material 36
S
safety instructions 9, 39
securing the balloon neck 17
sensor boom 26
sounding
monitoring 32
preparations 23
workorder 13
storing the radiosonde 33
T
technical support 36
timer setting 25
Totex parachute 19, 31
transportation and handling 33, 37
tying the balloon 17
U
unpacking the radiosonde 22
unwinder, attaching 18, 30
W
warranty 36
claims 38
covered failures 37
storage conditions 37
transportation and handling 37
42 __________________________________________________________________ M210299EN-D
________________________________________________________________________________
VAISALA_______________________________________________________________________ 43
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