The Sentinel 3 fibre optic system transmitter (Tx) units are powered by batteries to ensure the compact units can be installed remotely with maximum flexibility. As the Tx units are designed to operate in high energy environments, the isolation a battery provides removes the need for a shielded power supply and cables.
This guide demonstrates the battery types used for the Tx units and provides detailed information on charging and connecting to the equipment.
Types of batteries
The Sentinel 3 Tx units come in two different types: The Tx1 and the Tx8. Each of these devices uses its own battery, so there are two battery types. The battery packs are custom designed batteries based on Lithium-Ion technology, with the Tx1 battery rated at approximately 24 Wh and the Tx8 battery rated at approximately 48 Wh.
How to connect and disconnect the batteries
For the Tx1 battery, there is a single locking catch at the top of the battery. To fit, slide the battery along the guides on the side of the Tx1 until the connector mates with the Tx unit, then fit the locking catch in place. To remove the battery, release the catch, then slide the battery downwards until it is clear of the slide guides.
For the Tx8 battery, there are two locking catches and pins at the base of the Tx unit where it is attached. To fit the battery, slide it over the two pins to guide the battery into place. Fit the locking catch on both sides to lock it into place. To remove, release both of the locking catches and slide the battery down until the guide pins are clear of the battery.
Tx powering and isolation
There are no on/off switches on the Tx devices. This is to maintain the isolation of the device, designed for high energy environments. Once the battery is fitted, the device is powered on. Additional battery control is available via the software control from the chassis, such as sleep mode to save power.
Connecting to the charging shoes and charging status
Fitment and removal of the battery for the charging shoes is identical to the battery fitment for each of the Tx units. Line up the battery with the shoe connector, fit the battery to the shoe, and attach the locking catches to maintain connection whilst charging.
When the battery is fitted to the charging shoe, the front panel of the shoe displays the charging state and condition.
Chassis charging method
On the front panel of the charging shoe are two ports. The port on the left-hand side is for the charging lead supplied with the Sentinel 3 chassis. When the battery and charging shoe are connected to the chassis, the state of charge is displayed on the front panel controller. This is the principal method of charging. In this mode the status LED on the charge shoe continuously cycles through red-amber-green states.
This charging lead should be connected to one of the four charging connectors on the rear of the chassis. This method is ideal for charging the batteries whilst the chassis is in use.
Desktop charging method
Alternative charging can be achieved by using the desktop charger, also supplied with the charging shoe. This charger uses the connector on the front right-hand side of the charge shoe.
When the battery and charge shoe are connected to the desktop charger, the state of charge is indicated by an LED on the shoe. This allows the batteries to be charged at a location remote from the main chassis. In this mode the LED on the charge shoe shows the state of charge.
For any technical issues not covered by this guide, please contact our dedicated Technical Support team, by emailing technicalsupport@ppmtest.com or by phoning +44 (0) 1793 784389.
Find out more about Sentinel 3
To find out more about the Sentinel 3 fibre optic system and how to operate it, more information including the datasheet and brochure is available on the product page.
Sentinel 3 product page
