Canlink 3500 VRC/MON Operator’s Manual Version 5.00.
1 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual System Overview The canlink 3500 is a flexible instrument designed to fulfil a variety of monitoring, guidance and control operations using GPS equipment. The canlink VRC / Monitor cab module is setup to run variable rate control of the airseeder through a processor (pod), mounted on the airseeder that manages up to 4 bin metering units (1 metering unit for Monitor) and monitors essential airseeder functions.
2 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Contents Using this manual......................................................................................................................................4 3500VRC System Diagram .......................................................................................................................5 3500VRC System Overview .....................................................................................................................6 BATTERY CONNECTION..............
3 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 10 ...................................................................................................................................................... 53 10.1 - Guidance Setup..............................................................................................................................53 10.2 - Guide Sensitivity .............................................................................................................................53 10.
4 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Using this manual The following manual is a detailed document, which covers all, drives and applications used by the 3500VRC/MON software. This manual covers all airseeder/spreader/combine drill types that are sold with the 3500VRC/MON. On the bottom of each page you will find the version of software that was released at the time the manual was printed. Please quote this software version number when you consult your Farmscan dealer or Farmscan service personnel.
5 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 3500VRC System Diagram V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
6 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 3500VRC System Overview The 3500VRC uses the A-3505/HC pod to control and receive information from sensors and motors. It is a four channel controller with two other outputs for on/off control. Each of the four channels can control a DC Motor, Hydraulic motor, linear actuator or liquid ball valve each. The two additional outputs can control master valves used in liquid tanks. BATTERY CONNECTION Do not connect battery power until installation is complete.
7 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 1 1.1 - Units Selection To display quantities in US imperial units follow the steps below. Otherwise skip to “1.2 – Pod Selection” on the next page. Note Default setting is units displayed in metric. 1.1.1 - Select US imperial 1. Press “CAL” key. The calibration menu appears. 2. Highlight “OPTIONS”. 3. Press the softkey pointing at “UNITS”. 4. Use the up and down arrow keys to toggle between “METRIC” and “US”. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
8 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 1.2 – Pod Detection The canlink 3500 controller will work with either the 3500 or 3000 control pod versions. Whereas, the canlink 3000 will only work with the 3000 control pod. The control pod version is automatically detected with version V5.00.26 and onwards in the 3500. It will display the detected Pod on the top of the options screen (see Step 6). V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
9 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 2 2 - Drive Setup Drives for each bin must be selected and calibrated (setup) before operation. 2.
10 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 2.2.1 - Enable Bin Drive 1. Press “CAL” key, calibration menu appears. 2. Highlight “SETUP” and press “CAL”. The “CONTROL SETUP MENU” appears. Press & hold for 3 seconds to enable Bin 1 CONTROL SETUP MENU POD BIN 1 ENABLED BIN 2 DISABLED BIN 3 DISABLED BIN 4 DISABLED SELECT RATES BACK EXIT 3. Press and hold the softkey pointing at the required bin for 3 seconds. 4. Bin will change from “DISABLED” to “ENABLED”.
11 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Valve 2 wire – master on/off valve is two wire configuration. Output 5 must be associated to the liquid bin 4. This is done in the following screens – The above shows OUTPUT 5 – VALVE 2 WIRE set up as the master on/off valve for Bin 4. Therefore when Bin 4 is turned off or placed on hold OUTPUT 5 will trigger the master valve in the liquid manifold. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
12 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Liquid Liquid control is available on all four bins. On a Simplicity liquid bin it is set up on bin 4 however the 3500 software will allow it to work on four bins. Note: Prior to selecting liquid, if a master valve is being used with the liquid then this must be selected. See OUTPUT 5 & 6. 1. Check “BIN # LIQUID” is displayed. See below. 2. Select Control Type CTRL to “BYPASS” see “Bypass and Direct Control Explained”. 3.
13 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Bypass and Direct Control Explained Pictured below is an example of Bypass control and Direct Control (not applicable to Simplicity airseeder). Please consult your airseeder manufacturer if you are unsure of which control is being used. BYPASS CONTROL This type of control requires a Master On/Off Valve setup on OUTPUT 5. This type of control regulates the flow back to the tank, which in turn controls the amount of fluid output to the airseeder bar.
14 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Monitor No setup screen is displayed. The monitor reads rate from feedback wheel and displays rate of ground drive machines only. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
15 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 3 3.1 - Product Calibration Before seeding, product calibrations must be created. Product calibrations are the “PULSES/KG” or “PULSES/L” values seen in the rates screen. Each product calibration factor is bin and product specific. Product calibration factors are calculated by dividing the number of test pulses by the test weight. Follow the instructions 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.1.3 and 3.2 for all products. 3.1.1 - Before Calibrating 1.
16 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 3.1.2 - Select Bin & Product 1. Press “CAL”. Calibration menu appears. 2. Highlight “RATES” and press “CAL”. The “TRP001 RATES” menu appears. Note If trip 2 or any other trip is active, the “TRP002 RATES” or other menu will appear. 3. Press softkey pointing at bin number. Use up and down arrow keys to select bin number. 4. Press softkey pointing at “SELECT PROD”. The “PRODUCT SELECTION MENU” screen appears.
17 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5. Press the bottom “” softkeys to display the product to select. 6. Press the left hand softkey pointing at the product, until it has the >> arrow heads next to it. 7. Press the bottom “SELECT” softkey. 8. The rates screen will be displayed with the selected product displayed. Note See section “Changing Product Names” in the Operation section of the manual to change product names and set the product type as either liquid or solid. V5.00.
18 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 3.1.3 - Calibrate Bin & Product 1. Press softkey pointing at “CALIB PRODUCT”. The “PRODUCT CALIBRATION” screen appears. 2. Follow the drive specific instructions on the following pages to calibrate product. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
19 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Linear Actuator Over Variable Gearbox 1. Check ”PRODUCT CALIBRATION” screen is displayed. See below. 2. Press bottom “READY” softkey. 3. Press green button on the pod to move the gearbox actuator in one direction. Release and press the green button again to move the gearbox actuator in the opposite direction. 4. Adjust the gearbox actuator to an approximate normal working position on the calibration dial for the intended rate as suggested by the airseeder manufacturer. 5.
20 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Liquid 1. Check “PRODUCT CALIBRATION” screen is displayed. See below. 1. Press the softkey pointing at “CAL SPEED”. Use the arrow keys to enter the airseeder manufacturer’s recommended metering speed for the product being calibrated. 1 5 10 = = = 10% 50% 100% Slowest Speed Half Speed (Use if unknown) Maximum Speed PRODUCT CALIBRATION BIN 1 0.
21 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 9. Accurately measure volume of product caught. 10. Press the softkey pointing at “TEST VOL”. Use the arrow keys to enter the volume of product caught. 11. Press the bottom “UPDATE” softkey. A new “PULSE/L” factor will be calculated. See section 3.3 Fine Tuning Calibration Factors. SET PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE Set Pressure Relief Valve. This feature allows the user to set the manual pressure relief valve by allowing max pressure into the manifold.
22 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Monitor 1. Check “PRODUCT CALIBRATION” screen is displayed. See below. 2. Press the bottom “READY” softkey. 3. Be ready at the airseeder metering unit to catch product. 4. Press green button on the pod to engage the clutch of that particular bin (if fitted) and turn the crank handle to turn the drive. 5. The metering unit will commence to turn and the 3500 will count “TEST PULSES”. Stop turning after a reasonable size sample is metered. 6. Accurately weigh the product. 7.
23 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 3.2 – Target Rate and Step Size The target rate and step size for each bin is set in the rates screen. Follow the instructions below. The target rate is the rate in kg/ha that the bin once turned on will automatically control to. This rate can be increased/decreased in the main screen using the up and down arrows keys. The amount by which the target rate is increased/decreased is the step size value and is set in the rates screen. 3.2.1 - Set Target Rate 1.
24 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 3.3 - Fine Tuning Calibration Factors Calibration factors can be fine tuned in two ways. One - after metering a known quantity and applying an adjustment formula. Two - by using the two tenths of a hectare test. The two tenths of a hectare test runs the selected drive for 2/10th of a hectare while stationery. Product can be caught and weighed to check bin calibration factors are correct. 3.3.1 - Metering a Known Quantity 1. Fill the bin with a pre-measured quantity. 2.
25 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 3.3.2 - Two Tenths of a Hectare (applicable on Liquid Tank only) 1. Press the softkey pointing at “PRIME” until the “2/10 HA” speed is highlighted. 2. Use the arrow keys to enter the typical working speed while seeding. 3. Press the “EXIT” softkey to escape to the main screen. Check the bins to be tested are in the “READY” mode. 4. Check the metering system is primed with product and ready to be caught for weighing. 5.
26 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 3.4 - Reusing Product Calibration Factors Product calibration factors for each bin are saved in the active trip. To re-use the same calibration factors simply activate this trip. When another trip is activated previous product selections and product calibration factors will be absent. However, bin drive setups will still be there. Clearing a trip will delete all saved records, product selections and calibration factors.
27 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 4 4.1 - Machine Calibration Enter calibration factors to calculate area (width factor) and speed (wheel factor). 1. Press “CAL” key. Calibration menu appears. 2. Highlight “MACHINE” and press “CAL”. “MACHINE MENU” appears, see above. 4.1.1 - Width Factor 1. Press the softkey pointing at “WIDTH FACTOR”. 2. Use the up and down arrow keys to enter the width of airseeder cultivator bar measured from tyne to tyne. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
28 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 4.1.2 - Wheel Factor 1. Wheel factor calibration requires measuring of a distance of at least 50m. 2. Enter the “MACHINE MENU”. The “COUNT WHEEL PULSE” is a live display of magnets/targets passing the wheel sensor. Move the machine and stop on a wheel as it is updated on the screen next to “COUNT WHEEL PULSE”. 3. Press the softkey pointing at “COUNT WHEEL PULSE”. 4. Press the “RESET” key to reset wheel pulses. 5.
29 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 5 5.1 - Alarms Setup Setup fan, air pressure, shaft, bin level, depth, oil and liquid pressure alarms. Sensors must be enabled prior to setting alarm points. 5.1.1 – Alarm Points Menu 1. Press “CAL” key. Calibration menu appears. 2. Highlight “ALARMS” and press “CAL” key. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
30 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 3. Press the “” softkeys to scroll through all the alarm screens. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
31 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5.2 - Fan Alarm The 3500VRC has two RPM inputs. Both of these inputs can be set up as either a Fan rpm input or in the case of liquid a pump rpm input (see 5.8 Pump RPM). The fan alarm warns the operator when the fan rpm is outside the low and high set points. Two fan alarms are available. Enabling the fan alarm displays live fan rpm on the main screen. Fan alarms must be enabled before setting the fan low and high alarm points.
32 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5.3 - Air Pressure Alarm (where fitted) Warns the operator when air pressure in the primary hose is outside the low and high set points. Two air pressure alarms available in case a second fan is installed. Enabling this alarm displays a live readout of primary hose pressure. 5.3.1 – Enable 1. For a single fan, press and hold for 3 seconds the softkey pointing at “AIR 1”. 2. “ENABLED” will change to “DISABLED”. If fan 1 is operating live pressure will be displayed. 3.
33 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5.4 - Drive Ratio/Shaft Alarms (where fitted) Warns the operator of breakdown, slippage or incorrect sprockets between the controlled drive and the final metering mechanism. Drive ratio alarms are available for all four bins. Once enabled and set, all drive ratios are monitored continuously and will alarm if the ratio is ±10% outside of the set ratio. Drive ratio alarms must be enabled before setting. 5.4.1 – Enable 1.
34 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5.4.2 - Set Ratios If drive ratios are already known, alarm points can be manually set. If drive ratios are unknown they can be displayed live and set while operating. Manual Setting 1. Press softkey pointing at “DRIVE 1 RATIO” to highlight the far right column. 2. Use the arrow keys to set the recommended drive ratio. 3. Repeat steps 1 to 3 for all other active bins.
35 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5.5 - Bin Level Alarm Warns the operator when the bin level sensor (fitted at a low point in the bin) is uncovered. Bin level alarms are available on all four bins, and must be enabled before being ready to use. Enabling bin level alarms will display the bin level indicator bar on the main screen. The bin level indicator bar is a vertical bar displayed on the far left of the screen adjacent to each bin.
36 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5.6 - Depth Alarm (where fitted) Provides a visual readout of implement ram position using a scale of 0 to 99. 0 is full ram extension and 99 is maximum depth. The depth alarm is set using a “HOLD” point, which automatically puts the unit on hold when the implement is raised above this point. The depth sensor must be enabled before setting the hold point. 1.6.1 – Enable 1. Press the “NEXT>” softkey to display depth. 2.
37 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5.7 - Aux Alarm (where fitted) The AUX alarm is an optional alarm with two functions – oil and liquid pressure alarms. 5.7.1 – Enable Oil Pressure Alarm 1. Press the “NEXT>” softkey to display “AUX”. 2. Press the softkey pointing at “AUX” until “OIL” is displayed. 3. Use the up and down arrow keys to select “OIL”. 5.7.2 - Enable Liquid Pressure Alarm 1. Press the “NEXT>” softkey to display “AUX”. 2. Press the softkey pointing at “AUX” until “LIQUID” is displayed. 3.
38 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5.8 – Pump 2 Speed (Liquid Tank Only) The 3500VRC has two RPM inputs. Both of these inputs can be set up as either a Fan rpm input (see 5.2 Fan RPM) or in the case of liquid a pump rpm input. The pump alarm warns the operator when the pump rpm is outside the low and high set points. Two fan alarms are available. Enabling the fan alarm displays live fan rpm on the main screen. Pump alarms must be enabled before setting the pump low and high alarm points.
39 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5.9 – Bin Liquid Pressure Alarm (where fitted) Warns the operator when the liquid pressure in the liquid manifold is outside the low and high set points. Four liquid pressure alarms are available in the event of liquid control being used on all bins. Enabling this alarm displays a live readout of liquid manifold pressure. 5.9.1– Enable 1. For a single liquid pressure, press and hold for 3 seconds the softkey pointing at “LIQUID 4”. 2. “DISABLED” will change to “ENABLED”.
40 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 6 6.1 - Options Setup Prime, two tenths of a hectare, external bin 4 hold, Run/Hold input and units are settable from this menu. 1. Press the “CAL” key to display the calibration menu. 2. Use the arrow keys to highlight “OPTIONS”. 3. Press “CAL” to enter options menu. 6.2 - Pod Detection The versions of pod software that are compatible with the cab controller software are displayed in the top of the screen. The 3500 canlink will work either a 3000 or 3500 pod.
41 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 6.3 – Run/Hold Input Master operation of the system can be controlled in a number of ways. 1. Run/Hold Input – Disabled Using the front panel “RUN/HOLD” key. 2. Run/Hold Input – Clutch This requires a connection to an external clutch switch that will activate the “RUN/HOLD” function when operated. (Pin 20 on DB25) 3. Run/Hold Input – 3704 This requires a connection to the 3704 remote bin run/hold switch box.
42 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 6.3.2 – 3704 1. Press the softkey pointing at “RUN/HOLD INPUT”. 2. Using the arrow key change “DISABLED” to “3704”. 3. “3704” will appear in the bottom left hand side of the screen. Press the soft key below “3704” to enter the setup screen of 3704. 4. Press and hold the soft key adjacent to each switch to enable them. Switch 1 is the master on/off for Bin 1 and switch 2 is the master on/off for Bin 2.
43 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 6.4 - Units Units are selected in Step 1 before starting calibration. If the units are changed after calibration, all stored calibration factors and records will be converted into the new system of units and can be recovered after reverting to the previous selection. 6.5 – Prime (Liquid Tank Only) The duration in seconds for which the drive will be primed when the “PRIME” softkey is pressed in the main screen or when the green button on the pod is pressed. 6.5.
44 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 7 7.1 - Display Setup The display menu provides control over contrast, backlighting brightness, display inversion and lightbar brightness. 1. Press the “CAL” key to display the calibration menu. 2. Use the arrow keys to highlight “DISPLAY” 3. Press the “CAL” key to enter the “DISPLAY” menu. 7.2 - Contrast Display contrast is automatically adjusted for variations in temperature. Contrast can be manually adjusted by increasing or decreasing the contrast setting number.
45 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 7.3 - Backlighting Toggles the backlighting between “LOW”, “MED” and “HIGH”. The low and medium settings are better suited to night operation while the high setting is better for day operation. 7.3.1 - Change Backlight Setting 1. Press the softkey pointing at “BACKLIGHT”. 2. Use the up and down arrow keys to change between low, med and high. 7.4 - Display Invert The display can be inverted for in bright light operation or reversed to reduce glare for night operation. 7.4.
46 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 8 8.1 - Time, Date and GPS Setup When GPS or DGPS data is being received co-ordinates are displayed at the top of the main screen. Co-ordinates preceded by a “D” indicate that DGPS data is being received. The time is always displayed in the top line of the main screen to the right of the GPS co-ordinates. The date can be set and viewed in the “GPS/CLOCK” menu. Setting the correct time and date eliminates confusion as log files are named using the date.
47 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 8.2.2 - Set GMT offset 1. Press the softkey pointing at “GMT OFFSET”. 2. Use the arrow keys to set the correct offset. For example in Western Australia it is +8 hours. 8.3 - GPS Differential GPS (DGPS) or raw GPS output in the NMEA data standard at frequencies of 1, 2,5 and 10 Hz will be accepted. Important GPS Strings! The GPS must output only the GGA and the VTG strings.
48 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 9 9.1 - Data Card & Logging Interval Rates applied and GPS co-ordinates can be logged onto an MMC card. The data card is also used to upload new software onto the canlink platform. To log data and upload software the data card must be enabled. For logging, a log interval must also be set and GPS data being received. Data cards must be the MMC type with 16,32, 64 or 128Mb capacities. The storage capacity of data cards will be detected automatically once enabled. 1.
49 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 9.2 - Logging Interval The time in seconds between successive data logging events. The smaller the logging interval (time) the less data will be logged. Intervals of 1 to 10 seconds can be set. 9.2.1 - Set Logging Interval 1. Press the softkey pointing at “LOG INT”. 2. Use the up and down arrow keys to set the interval. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
50 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 9.3 – Upload Software New or updated canlink software can be uploaded into the canlink and pod straight from the data card. Software is uploaded through the “FIELD UPLOAD V#.##.##” menu. The screen will momentarily turn black before entering this menu. See the “Data Card Operation” section for instructions on system recovery after an interrupted upload procedure. 9.3.1 - Upload 3500 Software from Card 1. Insert data card with new software into the card slot. 2.
51 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 9.4 – Application Maps Application maps for auto control are uploaded into the canlink from the data card menu. See the “AUTO CONTROL” section of this manual for more instructions. Note Only one application map can be uploaded into the canlink at a time. 9.4.1 – Upload Application Map 1. Press the softkey pointing at "LIST MAP FILES". Use the up and down arrow keys to scroll through all maps on the card.
52 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 9.4.2 – Viewing Maps 5. In the “DATA CAD” screen press the bottom "SHOW" softkey. The application map for all four bins will be drawn. Only rates greater than zero are drawn black. See below. A white flashing dot is your current position on the map. If you are outside the map the message "OUTSIDE OF MAP" will appear at the top of the screen. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
53 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 10 10.1 - Guidance Setup Pressing the front panel “MODE” key activates parallel guidance. Settings affecting the main screen guidance prompts are set in this screen. 1. Press “CAL” to display the calibration menu. 2. Use the arrow keys to highlight “GUIDANCE”. 3. Press the “CAL” key. The “GUIDANCE” screen is displayed. See below. GUIDANCE SETUP SWATHWIDTH 10.00M GUIDE SENSITIVITY 1 GPS TO IMPLEMENT 0.00 M HEADLAND HOLD GUIDE NUDGE OFF BACK EXIT 10.
54 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 10.3 - GPS to Implement The distance between the GPS antenna and the bar. For example, if the GPS antenna is mounted on the tractor and the bar is 15m away, enter 15m. Enter GPS to Implement Distance 1. Press the softkey pointing at “GPS TO IMPLEMENT”. 2. Use the arrow keys to enter the GPS to bar distance. 10.4 - Headland Hold The hold state can be automatically engaged when a headland area is entered. To enable this set “HEADLAND HOLD” to “ON”. To disable set to “OFF”.
55 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Step 11 11. 1 Flexi Steer (Autosteer) 11.1.1 Hydraulic Disable Install the Hydraulic steering valve and hoses as per the documentation that was included in the kit. 1. Press the CAL button (6) 2. Select the Autosteer menu and press CAL (6) 3. The following screen will appear 4. The HYD Value should be “ON”. When you are moving the steering wheel it should change to “OFF”, when you stop it should change back to “ON” 5.
56 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
57 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 11.2 Flexi Steer calibration When you purchase the optional steering pod the 3500 VGS can steer your machine in parallel. To set up and calibrate the Flexi Steer just follow the following simple steps. 1. Select the AUTOSTEER menu and press CAL. The following screen will appear. 2. the CMD value must be “ON” 3. Leave the MINLOOK and MAXLOOK at the defaults of 2.0 and 2.5 respectively. 4.
58 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 10. With the machine running and Flexi Steer enabled (CMD in ON) increase the Value until the machine just starts to turn LEFT. If the machine turns RIGHT then you have to swap the connectors on the steering valve solenoids. 11. Hold down the Height soft key until Set Gain appears. 12. Move into an open area and move off with Flexi Steer enabled. 13. Adjust the SET GAIN until the machine is steering smoothly. 11.
59 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Operation (1) ON / OFF Press once to turn on. Twice to turn off. (2) MODE Activates/deactivates guidance mode. (3) RUN / HOLD Starts/stops product metering, record accumulation, alarms and data logging. (4) RECORDS Selects active “TRIP” and displays overall totals, weight/volume applied and area covered for each product. (5) RESET Used to zero records or various calibration factors. (6) ALARM Cancels low priority warnings and scrolls through alarm messages.
60 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Run/Hold Operation The “RUN/HOLD” function is used to immediately stop all product metering. This function is used when travelling to refill, covering headlands or driving between fields etc. When on hold, trip, load and total records will stop accumulating and data logging will cease. Speed (km/h), work rate (ha/h), air pressure, fan rpm and depth will be displayed live when on hold.
61 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Alarm Key Step through Messages Press the “ALARM” key to step through the active messages. Silence Non Critical Alarms Press the “ALARM” key to silence non-critical alarms, such as the “BIN 1 RATE LOW” alarm. Note Critical alarms can not be silenced by pressing the “ALARM” key. The condition causing the alarm must be rectified. Cal Key Is used to enter the calibration menu and calibration sub menus. VRC 1.00.15B/5.00.
62 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Mode Key Is used to toggle parallel guidance mode on/off (main screen). See below. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
63 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Main Screen Main Screen Features The main screen is divided into four sections: V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
64 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual GPS/Time Information The top of the main screen displays the time in 24 hour mode as well as latitude and longitude coordinates from a GPS/DGPS (if connected). See step 7 of the setup section to set the time and enable the GPS. When GPS co-ordinates are received from a differential GPS receiver, the letter ‘D’ will precede the GPS coordinates, indicating differential GPS.
65 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Airseeder Monitoring Divided into 6 sections. Displaying: V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Speed/distance/work rate. Fan rpm - fans 1 and 2. Trip Hectares. Air pressure - air 1 and 2. Load/area covered. Depth indicator. Part No.
66 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 1 - Speed/Distance/Work Rate Displays ground speed, distance travelled and work rate (hectares / hour). Display Speed/Distance/Work Rate 1. Press bottom “SELECT” softkey until speed/distance/work rate is highlighted. 2. Use up and down arrow keys to toggle between speed, distance and work rate. Reset Distance 1. Press front panel “RESET” key to clear distance total when displayed. 2 - Fan rpm Displays live airseeder fan rpm for fans 1 and 2.
67 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 4 - Air Pressure The “AIR” display shows the primary airseeder operating pressure for fans 1 and 2, if a second fan is installed. Primary air pressure is influenced by many factors and can be used as an indication of changed operating circumstances that may point to a problem. When the airseeder is operating outside the set high/low alarm points, an audible alarm and message “AIR HIGH 1” or “AIR LOW 1” will be displayed.
68 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Message/Memory Display Message The message section displays an alarm message whenever an alarm condition is activated. If two or more messages are activated at the same time, the display will cycle the messages, and display the total number of messages in the que. eg: 1/3 UNIT ON HOLD 2/3 BIN 1 LOW 3/3 FAN SLOW 1 Memory If a data card is used, the memory bar indicates the size of the current log file on the card. The maximum size of the log file is 2Mb.
69 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Non Critical Alarms Non-critical alarms such as “BIN 1 LOW” may be silenced by pressing the “ALARM” key. The alarm message will remain in the que to be displayed until that alarm condition has been rectified. A list of non-critical alarm messages is given below.
70 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Critical Alarm Messages Critical alarm messages related to the seeding operation, such as “BIN 1 RATE LOW” or “DRIVE 2 STOPPED” can not be silenced and must be rectified to cancel the alarm. Refer to the list of alarm messages below. Message BAD VOLTAGE BIN 1-4 RATE 0 BLOCKAGE 1 BLOCKAGE 2 DEPTH HOLD DRIVE 1-4 SLOW DRIVE 1-4 STOP FAN STOPPED 1 FAN STOPPED 2 FAN SLOW 1 FAN SLOW 2 NO COMMS RAM ERROR Explanation +12V supply voltage is low or fluctuating.
71 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Bin Controls Switching a Bin On/Off 1. Press and hold for 3 seconds the softkey pointing at a bin. 2. The bin will turn to “OFF” or to “READY”(on hold) or to “RUN” (off hold). Rates The live rate is displayed to the right of each bin. Three symbols are used to compare the live rate to the target rate. To indicate that a bin drive is being controlled a small moving bar is displayed above the rate symbol. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
72 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Display Current Target Rate 1. Press the softkey pointing at the rate to update. 2. The target rate will be instantly displayed. 3. Within a few seconds the live rate will be displayed again. Increasing/Decreasing Rates The target rate can be increased/decreased using the up/down arrow keys in the main screen. Rates are increased/decreased in steps. See step 3 of set up section to set step size. Increase/Decrease Rate 1.
73 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Return to Target Rate 1. Press the softkey pointing at the bin rate to reset. 2. Press the “RESET” softkey at bottom left of screen. 3. The set rate will return instantly to the target rate. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
74 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Start Airseeding 1. Check all bins are ‘READY’ and target rates are correct. 2. Activate air seeder fan/s and check both (if applicable) fan rpm’s are above ‘low alarm’ point. 3. Press “RUN/HOLD” key to clear “UNIT ON HOLD” message. Or engage clutch. 4. If using “DEPTH HOLD” function, lower implement past the ‘hold’ point. 5. Press “PRIME” softkey to pre-start product metering (optional). 6. Accelerate to working speed, system will automatically assume control. V5.00.
75 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Prime (Liquid Tank Only) The “PRIME” function is only applicable on DC or hydraulic drive airseeder bins and allows the operator to pre-start the product metering unit to avoid missed gaps at start off or to test product delivery to the sowing boots when stationary. To set the “PRIME” time see step 6. 1. Check bins are “READY”. 2. Press the “PRIME” softkey at the bottom of the screen. 3.
76 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Auto Control Is a control mode where rates will be automatically applied to different areas of the field as assigned in an application map. A GPS and an application map saved onto a MMC data card are all that is needed. Application maps are generated on a PC using a yield map or a field boundary map as a template. Such ‘templates’ can be created with Farmscan ‘Soil Sampling and Mapping’ or ‘Yield Monitoring’ software loaded onto a canlink.
77 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Start Auto Control 1. Insert the data card containing saved application maps. 2. Press “CAL” key to display calibration menu. Select “DATA CARD” and press “CAL”. 3. Check that “DATA CARD ENABLED” is displayed. If not use the arrow keys to change to “ENABLED”. 4. Press the softkey pointing at "LIST MAP FILES". Use the up and down arrow keys to scroll through all maps on the card. Note ?? Up to 20 maps for application can be stored on an MMC card.
78 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5. With the correct map highlighted, press the "LOAD" softkey at the bottom of the screen. The highlighted map will be uploaded. Once uploaded the map name will be displayed under “CURRENT MAP”. Note ?? Only one map can be selected at a time. ?? Once the application map is selected, the canlink is ready for auto-control. 6. Press the "SHOW" softkey at the bottom of the screen. The application map for all four bins will be drawn. Only rates greater than zero are drawn black.
79 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 7. Press "EXIT" softkey to return to the main screen. Once you are in the field pre-assigned rates will be applied. If you are not in the field zero rates will be applied. Turn off Auto Control You can turn off automatic application to the map by pressing the “RESET” softkey at the bottom left of the main screen. Note ?? In the main screen when in auto control mode “AUTO” will be displayed under each active bin. ?? The rate displayed is the pre-assigned automatic rate.
80 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Bin Auto Control Override 1. Highlight the bin to override using the adjacent horizontal softkeys. 2. Press “RESET” softkey at bottom left of screen to disable auto control for that bin. 3. Press “RESET” softkey again to resume auto control for the highlighted bin. Important! Always turn the unit off before taking the data card out of the slot. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
81 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Records Screen The “RECORDS” key provides access to accumulated product areas and weights for up to 100 separate trips (fields) plus overall totals of product areas and tonnages for the season. Before changing products or fields, operators must select a new trip number (1-100), thereby starting a new record and retaining current records. Alternatively, the current trip record can be reset to allow selection of new products.
82 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Viewing Trip Records 1. Press the front panel “RECORDS” key to display “TRIP” records. 2. Use the bottom “” softkeys to view different trip records. Note Press the “RECORDS” key again to toggle the display between “TRIP” and “PRODUCT TOTALS”. Resetting Trip Records 1. Display trip screen using “RECORDS” key. 2. Use “” softkeys to display trip record to be cleared. 3. Press “RESET” key and a confirmation message will appear. 4.
83 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Viewing Product Totals Records 1. Press the “RECORDS” key to toggle the display from “TRIP” records to “PRODUCT TOTALS” records. 2. Use the bottom “” softkeys to view different product records. Note Product totals are the sum total of product areas and weights/volumes for each trip. Resetting Product Total Records 1. Select “PRODUCT TOTALS” screen using “RECORDS” key. 2. Use “” keys to display product record to be cleared. 3.
84 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 5. Press “RESET” key a 3rd time, a message asking confirmation to reset all trips and product total records will appear. 6. Press “RESET” key a 4th time to reset all trips and product total records. Tip “PRODUCT TOTALS” will only be displayed for products with accumulated weight or area records. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
85 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Activate a New or Pre-Programmed Trip 1. Press the “RECORDS” key to display the current trip record. 2. Use bottom “” softkeys to display the required trip memory location. 3. Press the bottom “SELECT” softkey to engage the new trip memory. Copy Products to a New Trip 1. Press “RECORDS” key to display current trip records. 2. Use “” softkeys to display trip products to be copied. 3.
86 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Changing Trip Names To make record keeping and operation more familiar and logical to the operator, existing trip numbers 1-100 can be edited to reflect true field names or numbers. Note Trip names must be 6 characters long. Editing Trip Names 1. Press “RECORDS” key to display records screen. 2. Use “” softkeys at bottom of screen to display trip number (1-100) to change. 3. Press the “SELECT” softkey to activate trip name editing.
87 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Changing Product Names Up to 24 seed and fertiliser names can be created for selection when calibrating bins. Product names have a maximum length of 6 characters. Product type can also be set, as either liquid or solid. Setting the product type determines the units used to display calibration factors, rates and product totals for that product.
88 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Guidance Boundary The boundary feature calculates field areas and determines headland area locations. With a field boundary stored, operators will be notified when a headland area has been entered. The recorded boundary is stored attached to the active trip. If the trip that contains the boundary recording is not active the boundary feature will not work. Record a Boundary 1. Press the front panel “MODE” key to enter parallel guidance mode. 2.
89 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 4. On completion of the boundary press the “BOUNDB” softkey. “HEAD” will now replace the “BOUNDB” softkey and the “RECORDING HEADLAND” message will appear. Indicating headland area is being recorded. 5. Continue driving until all of the headland area has been covered. Press the “HEAD” softkey. Guidance AB points can now be set. See the next section to setup AB points.
90 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Important - When Recording Boundaries! Max 5km from “BOUNDA” Point You can not drive more than 5 kilometres from the start of the boundary or the “BOUNDA” point. See diagram below. Max 1 hour Boundary and Headland Recording. You can only record boundary and headlands for a maximum duration of 1 hour. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
91 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual No GPS ?? If the GPS signal is lost during guidance or boundary recording the bottom three softkeys shown below will be inoperable. ?? All guidance functions will stop. ?? To reset a boundary recording or clear AB lines you must first be receiving GPS information before the “RESET” softkey become operable. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
92 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Parallel Swath Guidance Once the setup swath (A to B) has been locked in, the parallel swath guidance feature will guide the operator along up to 200 swaths either side (200 left & 200 right) of the setup swath. Note Swaths can be completed in any order. Important - GPS Settings! For parallel swath guidance the GPS must output the GPGGA and GPVTG strings. If the baud rate on the GPS can be selected, select 19200 baud. And set the GPS frequency to 5Hz. V5.00.
93 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Set Up Parallel Swath Guidance 1. Press the front panel “MODE” key to enter parallel swath guidance mode. 2. Drive into the field, check GPS/DGPS coordinates are being received. The canlink can be on or off hold. 3. Prepare to drive the first swath. Align the vehicle with the direction of the swath but do not start driving the first swath. 4. Approach the start of the first swath and when it has been reached, press the bottom "POINT A" softkey.
94 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Cancelling Guidance Guidance can be cancelled at anytime. Cancel Guidance 1. Highlight “RESET” (bottom right oef screen). 2. Press and hold the top “RESET” key for two seconds. If canlink is Turned Off! If the canlink is turned off or loses power during guidance, guidance to the same swath will start again from the current position once power is restored. Storage of Guidance Lines Guidance data points are stored with trip information.
95 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Being Guided Guidance information is displayed in the left hand side of the main screen when in guidance mode. The distance from the guidance line (cross track error) and heading error are displayed. The display of heading error helps to maintain the path along the guidance line. And the display of cross track error helps to maintain zero distance from the guidance line. Note Guidance information can also be displayed on the optional light bar.
96 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Swath Numbering All swaths are numbered and displayed on the top right hand side of the main screen. The setup swath is the middle number and is labelled "1" with swaths to the immediate right being labelled "+2", then "+3" and so on until "+200". The swath to the immediate left of the setup swath is labelled "-2" and so on until "-200". See the diagram below. The swath being driven is the swath number displayed in the middle of the window. See the diagram below.
97 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Completed Swaths When driving onto previously completed swaths, the number of the finished swaths will immediately appear highlighted. When you have finished a swath and drive to the next swath, the number of the next swath will appear in the middle of the top right hand side of the main screen. The number of the previously completed swath will disappear.
98 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Reacting to Guidance Prompts The two guidance prompts are cross track error and heading error information. Heading Correction To correct the heading error steer in the opposite direction to the direction of the error. That is steer towards the centre line. Straighten out when you see the error almost on the centre line. Repeat this procedure until the error disappears. Cross Track Error Correction Correct cross track error by steering towards the centre line.
99 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Left Heading Error The vehicle is to the left of the swath and has a heading error to the left (see below). To come on track the driver must steer to the right until a heading error to the right of the centre line appears. The driver should straighten out when the cross track error gets very close to zero, see below. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
100 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Running Parallel to the Swath With Cross-Track Error to the Left The vehicle has the correct heading (no heading error) but has a cross-track error to the left. In effect the vehicle is being driven along a line parallel to the swath but 1.7m to the left. To correct this the driver must steer to the right until a heading error appears to the right of the centre line and then straighten out when the cross track error is very close to zero, see below. V5.00.
101 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Flag The flag function guides you back to the 'flag' position, which is a position that is stored in memory when the “FLAG” softkey is pressed. As soon as the “FLAG” softkey is pressed guidance to the flag position will start. The straight line distance to the 'flag position' and steering indications will be displayed. Steering indications are displayed by the line at the apex of the guidance triangle.
102 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Flagging a Position 1. Press the softkey below "FLAG", see diagram below. "GUIDE" will appear in its place. 2. Cross track and heading error will disappear and left/right steering indications (line at apex of triangle) and distance from the flag position will appear. See diagram on the previous page for an example of the flag screen. 3.
103 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Nudge Compensates for errors in GPS position that may occur when guidance was stopped and resumed after a long period. When the nudge function would be used A swath is left half finished and on the next day the operator resumes work. The operator finds the same unfinished swath and follows the same tyre tracks observing a cross track error. 4. Press “CAL” to display the calibration menu. 5. Use the arrow keys to highlight “GUIDANCE”. 6. Press the “CAL” key.
104 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Data Card Operation The canlink operates using the MultiMedia (MMC) data card type. Compatible storage capacities are 16, 32, 64 and 128Mb. Data cards provide the facility to upload new or upgraded product features and application maps into the canlink. When GPS/DGPS is connected, application rates can be logged to a data card to create “as applied” rate maps. Which can be compared with yield maps of the same field.
105 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Enable/Disable Data Card 1. Select “DATA CARD” from calibration menu and press “CAL”. 2. Press softkey pointing at “DATA CARD” key to highlight “ENABLED/DISABLED”. 3. Use the arrow keys to toggle between “ENABLED” and “DISABLED”. Note Data card must be disabled if not being used. Setting Log Interval Sets how often data is written to the card, for example every second (1) or every two seconds (2).
106 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Erase Data Card The erase function deletes all log files stored on the data card. Any other files will not be removed. Note Do not erase card while airseeding! All control rates will go to zero during erase! Erase 1. Press the bottom “ERASE” softkey, the message “HIT RESET” will appear. 2. Press the “RESET” key to start erasing. 3. Display will ask “SURE?” and the message “HIT RESET” will appear. 4. Press the “RESET” key again to delete log files on the card or 5.
107 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual How the canlink Logs Data The canlink logs data in files. During data logging a log file is copied onto the card. The log file is named VRC followed by the date (day and month) with the ".log" extension. Example "VRC2703A.log" is a log file created on the 27th of March. "A" means that it is the first log file created on the 27th of March. Other log files created on the same day will be named "VRC2703B.log, VRC2703C.log” etc.
108 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Upload Software New or updated canlink software can be uploaded into the canlink and pod straight from the data card. Software is uploaded through the “FIELD UPLOAD V#.##.##” menu. The screen will momentarily turn black before entering this menu. Note The unit will be put on hold when entering the "FIELD UPLOAD" screen. Processes such as auto control to an application map will resume once the "FIELD UPLOAD" screen is exited.
109 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Upload 3500 Software from Card 1. Insert data card with new software into the card slot. 2. Press “CAL” key. Calibration menu will appear. 3. Highlight “DATA CARD” and press “CAL”. “DATA CARD” menu will appear. 4. Press softkey pointing at “UPLOAD SOFTWARE”. “FIELD UPLOAD V#.##.##” menu will appear. 5. Press the "FIRST" or "NEXT" softkeys under "3000 NONE" to select the software file to upload. 6. Press the “UPLOAD 3500 FROM CARD” softkey. 7.
110 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual PC Operations and canlink Data ?? Files (new software & application maps) to be uploaded onto the canlink can be copied using "Windows Explorer" directly onto the card using a USB flash card reader, such as the one supplied by Farmscan (PC-507). ?? The contents of the card can be viewed using the card reader and "Windows Explorer". ?? Log files can be copied straight off the card and stored on a PC.
111 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Diagnostics The diagnostic screen displays statistics and outputs related to the data received from all system sensors. Display Diagnostic Screen 1. Press the “CAL” key. 2. Highlight “DIAGNOSE” and press “CAL”. 3. The diagnostic screen shown below will appear. GPS data received statistics, are displayed at the bottom of the diagnostic screen. A count of the data strings received from the GPS are displayed, as well as the HDOP value, number of satellites and GPS frequency.
112 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Troubleshooting 1. PROBLEM CANLINK DOES NOT TURN ON. CAUSE Canlink not connected correctly. REMEDY ?? Connect black from loom directly to –ve side and red to +ve side of battery. Check there is 12V across the red and black power cables. Interference ?? Make sure no other electrical device is connected to the canlink power cable. Do not share power with other devices. Poor battery connections. ?? Ensure battery terminals are clean & tight.
113 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 7. PROBLEM UNIT WILL NOT COME OFF HOLD. CAUSE Check fan RPM is above ‘LOW ALARM’ point. REMEDY ?? See Step 5 of Set up section to set or check fan rpm alarm points. Does the alarms window on the main screen display ‘DEPTH HOLD?’ ?? Make sure the ram position is above the ‘HOLD’ point. ?? Reset ‘HOLD’ point if necessary. See Step 5 of Set up section. ?? If ‘DEPTH HOLD’ is not used, disable feature. See Step 5 of Set up section.
114 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 11. 12. PROBLEM CANLINK DISPLAYS DEPTH HOLD AND WILL NOT COME OFF HOLD. CANLINK DISPLAYS AIR PRESS LOW OR AIR PRESS HIGH. V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M CAUSE Incorrect ‘DEPTH HOLD’ setting. Optional function should be ‘DISABLED’ if not used. REMEDY ?? Check ‘DEPTH HOLD’ setting. Faulty wiring. ?? ?? ?? ?? Faulty sensor. ?? Use alarms menu to view live readings from the height sensor. ?? Operate the hydraulic ram and make sure the readings change gradually.
115 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 13. PROBLEM UNSTABLE OR NO SPEED READOUT. (Can be checked by setting canlink to Distance and driving known distance) CAUSE Incorrect gap of sensor from magnet or target. ‘WHEEL FACTOR’ incorrect ? or zero. Faulty sensor. REMEDY Proximity Sensor (3 wires). Ensure gap between sensor and targets is no more than 3mm. Reed Sensor (2 Wires). Ensure gap is 10 – 15mm from magnet. See Step 4 of Set up section.
116 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual PROBLEM 17. CANLINK DISPLAYS “RATE 0 ALARM”. CAUSE Ensure bins are switched to ‘READY’ in the main screen. ?? See Operation section to get Bins ready for seeding. ?? Check pulse/kg factor is correct. Check target rate is not set to zero. ?? Enter appropriate application rate. See step 3 of set up section. HYDRAULIC MOTOR hydraulic motor operates at maximum speed but rate still remains zero. ?? Check gap between proximity sensor and feedback target disc to be < 3mm.
117 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual PROBLEM 18. CANLINK DISPLAYS “RATE LOW ALARM”. CAUSE DC MOTOR or HYDRAULIC MOTOR Indicates that motor has reached maximum RPM and can not deliver required rate. REMEDY ?? Operate at a slower speed or lower rate. ?? Increase product delivery from rollers or change gearing of metering system and recalibrate metering system. GATE ACTUATOR Indicates gate may already be fully open or gate actuator is jammed.
118 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 21. 22. PROBLEM BIN LEVEL SENSOR READS LOW. BIN SENSOR DOES NOT REGISTER WHEN EMPTY. CAUSE Sensor uncovered. REMEDY ?? Check bin to determine if sensor is getting uncovered prematurely. ?? Reposition sensor. Sensor may be faulty. ?? Check to see if red LED is glowing at the cable entry side of sensor. ?? If LED is on, covering sensor with your hand should cause the LED to extinguish. ?? Replace sensor if LED fails to extinguish.
119 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual 25. 26. PROBLEM CANLINK DISPLAYS “DRIVE FAST ALARM”. CAUSE canlink calibrated with incorrect ratio alarm point or wrong gear/sprocket selected. REMEDY ?? Set correct ratio. See step 5 of set up section. ?? Make sure correct gear/ drive sprocket fitted, recalibrate ‘pulse/kg’ factor. TOO MUCH OR TOO LITTLE PRODUCT USED Incorrect ‘WHEEL FACTOR’. See troubleshooting 12 above. Incorrect ‘AREA’ recorded.
120 3500 VRC Operator’s Manual Notes V5.00.26 October 2006 Revision M Part No.
