Instruction manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing Diamond Traffic Products Phoenix II Traffic Classifier Field Unit. You have purchased one of

the finest advanced traffic classification recorders available today. This manual describes the operation and

programming of the Phoenix II Field Unit. Please take the time to read and understand this manual in order to fully

operate your Phoenix II unit to its full capabilities.

What is a “Phoenix Field Unit”?

The Phoenix is a data gathering instrument for use in the field (roadway). By using the Phoenix and any of several

possible combinations of sensors; traffic data and vehicle classification can be recorded and later retrieved. Speed,

Length, Number of Axles, Vehicle Class Type and Piezo WIM are just a few types of data which can be gathered with

this instrument.

For the unit itself, the welded aluminum case is durable, light, and weather resistant. The Interior keypad & display are

both sealed to prevent moisture from damaging them. The Phoenix II is available in several sizes and types including a

water tight case. Inside the case is the heart of the unit, the microprocessor. Printed circuit boards contain the

microprocessor, backup battery, charging network, memory, and all other support circuitry for the unit. The Phoenix II

can contain the boards for the following optional features, Inductive loop detector boards, Piezo classification boards,

and Piezo WIM Boards.

What is the difference between a Phoenix, Phoenix II and Phoenix II?

The Original Phoenix unit released in 1993 was designed to be similar to a small computer based platform. It contained

a motherboard, a daughterboard and a keyboard for the base unit and then could contain inductive loop detector boards

and piezo detector boards that could be installed in a stack formation. With the development of electronic technology

over time, the Mother, Daughter and Keyboards were combined into one single controller board (hence the MDK –

Mother, Daughter, Keyboard). The replacement MDK board was known as the Phoenix MDK as there were differences

in electronics that enhanced the unit and upgraded it from the previous version. True to its name, the Phoenix unit was

reborn with the redesign of the Piezo sensor and Inductive Loop boards over time and the new Phoenix II unit was

created to differentiate from the original Phoenix electronics. Even though the function of the Phoenix has stayed the

same, the advances and technology changes warranted a distinction. The Phoenix II unit contains newer and more

powerful electronics and can also be used in weigh-in-motion and other advanced sensor type applications.

Some tips to prolong the life of your Phoenix II

 Always dry the unit out completely after removing from the field.

 Always use the dust caps on unused plugs.

 Keeping the battery fully charged will prolong its service and battery life span.

 Recharge the battery every six weeks when not in use.

 Disconnect the serial interface plug if communication is not required. This will substantially prolong battery life.

 Avoid placement of unit in drainage ditches or areas prone to flooding.

 Do not attempt servicing without qualified personnel. The components of the Phoenix II are very static sensitive,

and boards can be damaged by improper handling or removal.