-<html><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=ISO-8859-1"><title>The Altus Metrum System</title><meta name="generator" content="DocBook XSL Stylesheets V1.76.1"></head><body bgcolor="white" text="black" link="#0000FF" vlink="#840084" alink="#0000FF"><div class="book" title="The Altus Metrum System"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h1 class="title"><a name="idm150
41272"></a>The Altus Metrum System</h1></div><div><h2 class="subtitle">An Owner's Manual for TeleMetrum, TeleMini and TeleDongle Devices</h2></div><div><div class="author"><h3 class="author"><span class="firstname">Bdale</span> <span class="surname">Garbee</span></h3></div></div><div><div class="author"><h3 class="author"><span class="firstname">Keith</span> <span class="surname">Packard</span></h3></div></div><div><div class="author"><h3 class="author"><span class="firstname">Bob</span> <span class="surname">Finch</span></h3></div></div><div><div class="author"><h3 class="author"><span class="firstname">Anthony</span> <span class="surname">Towns</span></h3></div></div><div><p class="copyright">Copyright © 2011 Bdale Garbee and Keith Packard</p></div><div><div class="legalnotice" title="Legal Notice"><a name="idp145264"></a><p>
+<html><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=ISO-8859-1"><title>The Altus Metrum System</title><meta name="generator" content="DocBook XSL Stylesheets V1.76.1"></head><body bgcolor="white" text="black" link="#0000FF" vlink="#840084" alink="#0000FF"><div class="book" title="The Altus Metrum System"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h1 class="title"><a name="idm150
92880"></a>The Altus Metrum System</h1></div><div><h2 class="subtitle">An Owner's Manual for TeleMetrum, TeleMini and TeleDongle Devices</h2></div><div><div class="author"><h3 class="author"><span class="firstname">Bdale</span> <span class="surname">Garbee</span></h3></div></div><div><div class="author"><h3 class="author"><span class="firstname">Keith</span> <span class="surname">Packard</span></h3></div></div><div><div class="author"><h3 class="author"><span class="firstname">Bob</span> <span class="surname">Finch</span></h3></div></div><div><div class="author"><h3 class="author"><span class="firstname">Anthony</span> <span class="surname">Towns</span></h3></div></div><div><p class="copyright">Copyright © 2012 Bdale Garbee and Keith Packard</p></div><div><div class="legalnotice" title="Legal Notice"><a name="idp191472"></a><p>
This document is released under the terms of the
<a class="ulink" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/" target="_top">
Creative Commons ShareAlike 3.0
</a>
license.
- </p></div></div><div><div class="revhistory"><table border="1" width="100%" summary="Revision history"><tr><th align="left" valign="top" colspan="2"><b>Revision History</b></th></tr><tr><td align="left">Revision 1.0</td><td align="left">24 August 2011</td></tr><tr><td align="left" colspan="2">
+ </p></div></div><div><div class="revhistory"><table border="1" width="100%" summary="Revision history"><tr><th align="left" valign="top" colspan="2"><b>Revision History</b></th></tr><tr><td align="left">Revision 1.1</td><td align="left">13 September 2012</td></tr><tr><td align="left" colspan="2">
+ Updated for software version 1.1. Version 1.1 has new
+ features but is otherwise compatible with version 1.0.
+ </td></tr><tr><td align="left">Revision 1.0</td><td align="left">24 August 2011</td></tr><tr><td align="left" colspan="2">
Updated for software version 1.0. Note that 1.0 represents a
telemetry format change, meaning both ends of a link
(TeleMetrum/TeleMini and TeleDongle) must be updated or
Updated for software version 0.9. Note that 0.9 represents a
telemetry format change, meaning both ends of a link (TeleMetrum and
TeleDongle) must be updated or communications will fail.
- </td></tr><tr><td align="left">Revision 0.8</td><td align="left">24 November 2010</td></tr><tr><td align="left" colspan="2">Updated for software version 0.8 </td></tr></table></div></div></div><hr></div><div class="acknowledgements" title="Acknowledgements"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp149344"></a>Acknowledgements</h2></div></div></div>
+ </td></tr><tr><td align="left">Revision 0.8</td><td align="left">24 November 2010</td></tr><tr><td align="left" colspan="2">Updated for software version 0.8 </td></tr></table></div></div></div><hr></div><div class="acknowledgements" title="Acknowledgements"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp108936"></a>Acknowledgements</h2></div></div></div>
<p>
Thanks to Bob Finch, W9YA, NAR 12965, TRA 12350 for writing "The
Mere-Mortals Quick Start/Usage Guide to the Altus Metrum Starter
NAR #88757, TRA #12200<br>
</p></div><p>
</p>
- </div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp1
343560">1. Introduction and Overview</a></span></dt><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp1346608">2. Getting Started</a></span></dt><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp1975848">3. Handling Precautions</a></span></dt><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp2438920">4. Hardware Overview</a></span></dt><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp2252792">5. System Operation</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp2166840">1. Firmware Modes </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp2590808">2. GPS </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp2451080">3. Controlling An Altimeter Over The Radio Link</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp2468312">4. Ground Testing </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp1692104">5. Radio Link </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp138056">6. Configurable Parameters</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp138904">6.1. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp140048">6.2. Apogee Delay</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp141880">6.3. Main Deployment Altitude</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp142456">6.4. Maximum Flight Log</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp74024">6.5. Ignite Mode</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp75352">6.6. Pad Orientation</a></span></dt></dl></dd></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp76608">6. AltosUI</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp77696">1. Monitor Flight</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp174680">1.1. Launch Pad</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp183328">1.2. Ascent</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp185496">1.3. Descent</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp188720">1.4. Landed</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp191664">1.5. Site Map</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3912568">2. Save Flight Data</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3915488">3. Replay Flight</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3916736">4. Graph Data</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3919248">5. Export Data</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3920256">5.1. Comma Separated Value Format</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3921832">5.2. Keyhole Markup Language (for Google Earth)</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3922664">6. Configure Altimeter</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3926840">6.1. Main Deploy Altitude</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3927824">6.2. Apogee Delay</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3928864">6.3. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3929776">6.4. Radio Calibration</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3930840">6.5. Callsign</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3931576">6.6. Maximum Flight Log Size</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3932440">6.7. Ignite Mode</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3935280">6.8. Pad Orientation</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3937504">7. Configure AltosUI</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3938128">7.1. Voice Settings</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3940400">7.2. Log Directory</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3941624">7.3. Callsign</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3942592">7.4. Imperial Units</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3943496">7.5. Font Size</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3944200">7.6. Serial Debug</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3945112">7.7. Manage Frequencies</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3946096">8. Configure Groundstation</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3950016">8.1. Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3951000">8.2. Radio Calibration</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3951992">9. Flash Image</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3955064">10. Fire Igniter</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3957168">11. Scan Channels</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3958072">12. Load Maps</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3960200">13. Monitor Idle</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp3961072">7. Using Altus Metrum Products</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3961392">1. Being Legal</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3962352">2. In the Rocket</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3964464">3. On the Ground</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3971176">4. Data Analysis</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3973696">5. Future Plans</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp3975736">8. Altimeter Installation Recommendations</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3976720">1. Mounting the Altimeter</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3979056">2. Dealing with the Antenna</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3983040">3. Preserving GPS Reception</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3985424">4. Radio Frequency Interference</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3989152">5. The Barometric Sensor</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3990992">6. Ground Testing</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp3993128">9. Updating Device Firmware</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3995168">1. Updating TeleMetrum Firmware</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4000512">2. Updating TeleMini Firmware</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4005928">3. Updating TeleDongle Firmware</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp4013376">10. Hardware Specifications</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4013696">1. TeleMetrum Specifications</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4019424">2. TeleMini Specifications</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp4024248">11. FAQ</a></span></dt><dt><span class="appendix"><a href="#idp4028528">A. Notes for Older Software</a></span></dt><dt><span class="appendix"><a href="#idp4045288">B. Calibration</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4046264">1. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4049584">2. TeleMetrum Accelerometer</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="appendix"><a href="#idp4054448">C. Release Notes</a></span></dt></dl></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 1. Introduction and Overview"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp1343560"></a>Chapter 1. Introduction and Overview</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp1
11040">1. Introduction and Overview</a></span></dt><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp1178312">2. Getting Started</a></span></dt><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp1458272">3. Handling Precautions</a></span></dt><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp2203968">4. Hardware Overview</a></span></dt><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp3576752">5. System Operation</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp2648960">1. Firmware Modes </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp843848">2. GPS </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp1474008">3. Controlling An Altimeter Over The Radio Link</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp8640">4. Ground Testing </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp53640">5. Radio Link </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp13080">6. Configurable Parameters</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp54304">6.1. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp55472">6.2. Apogee Delay</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp57856">6.3. Main Deployment Altitude</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp58968">6.4. Maximum Flight Log</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp62744">6.5. Ignite Mode</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp64088">6.6. Pad Orientation</a></span></dt></dl></dd></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp65864">6. AltosUI</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp66944">1. Monitor Flight</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp72832">1.1. Launch Pad</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp78800">1.2. Ascent</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp80968">1.3. Descent</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp84192">1.4. Landed</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3850320">1.5. Site Map</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3852600">2. Save Flight Data</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3855520">3. Replay Flight</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3856768">4. Graph Data</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3859280">5. Export Data</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3860288">5.1. Comma Separated Value Format</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3861864">5.2. Keyhole Markup Language (for Google Earth)</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3862696">6. Configure Altimeter</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3866872">6.1. Main Deploy Altitude</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3867856">6.2. Apogee Delay</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3868896">6.3. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3869808">6.4. Radio Calibration</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3870872">6.5. Callsign</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3871608">6.6. Maximum Flight Log Size</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3872472">6.7. Ignite Mode</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3875312">6.8. Pad Orientation</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3877536">7. Configure AltosUI</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3878160">7.1. Voice Settings</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3880432">7.2. Log Directory</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3881656">7.3. Callsign</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3882624">7.4. Imperial Units</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3883528">7.5. Font Size</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3884232">7.6. Serial Debug</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3885144">7.7. Manage Frequencies</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3886128">8. Configure Groundstation</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3890048">8.1. Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3891032">8.2. Radio Calibration</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3892024">9. Flash Image</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3895096">10. Fire Igniter</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3897200">11. Scan Channels</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3898104">12. Load Maps</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3900232">13. Monitor Idle</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp3901104">7. Using Altus Metrum Products</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3901424">1. Being Legal</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3902440">2. In the Rocket</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3904984">3. On the Ground</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3911792">4. Data Analysis</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3913544">5. Future Plans</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp3915584">8. Altimeter Installation Recommendations</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3916568">1. Mounting the Altimeter</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3918904">2. Dealing with the Antenna</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3923232">3. Preserving GPS Reception</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3925616">4. Radio Frequency Interference</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3929344">5. The Barometric Sensor</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3931184">6. Ground Testing</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp3933320">9. Updating Device Firmware</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3935760">1. Updating TeleMetrum Firmware</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3941064">2. Updating TeleMini Firmware</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3946480">3. Updating TeleDongle Firmware</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp3953536">10. Hardware Specifications</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3953856">1. TeleMetrum Specifications</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3959584">2. TeleMini Specifications</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="chapter"><a href="#idp3964408">11. FAQ</a></span></dt><dt><span class="appendix"><a href="#idp3968152">A. Notes for Older Software</a></span></dt><dt><span class="appendix"><a href="#idp3984384">B. Calibration</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3985360">1. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3988680">2. TeleMetrum Accelerometer</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="appendix"><a href="#idp3993576">C. Release Notes</a></span></dt></dl></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 1. Introduction and Overview"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp111040"></a>Chapter 1. Introduction and Overview</h2></div></div></div><p>
Welcome to the Altus Metrum community! Our circuits and software reflect
our passion for both hobby rocketry and Free Software. We hope their
capabilities and performance will delight you in every way, but by
More products will be added to the Altus Metrum family over time, and
we currently envision that this will be a single, comprehensive manual
for the entire product family.
- </p></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 2. Getting Started"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp1
346608"></a>Chapter 2. Getting Started</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 2. Getting Started"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp1
178312"></a>Chapter 2. Getting Started</h2></div></div></div><p>
The first thing to do after you check the inventory of parts in your
"starter kit" is to charge the battery.
</p><p>
Full source code and build instructions are also available.
The latest version may always be downloaded from
<a class="ulink" href="http://altusmetrum.org/AltOS" target="_top">http://altusmetrum.org/AltOS</a>.
- </p></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 3. Handling Precautions"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp1
975848"></a>Chapter 3. Handling Precautions</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 3. Handling Precautions"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp1
458272"></a>Chapter 3. Handling Precautions</h2></div></div></div><p>
All Altus Metrum products are sophisticated electronic devices.
When handled gently and properly installed in an air-frame, they
will deliver impressive results. However, as with all electronic
As with all other rocketry electronics, Altus Metrum altimeters must
be protected from exposure to corrosive motor exhaust and ejection
charge gasses.
- </p></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 4. Hardware Overview"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp2
438920"></a>Chapter 4. Hardware Overview</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 4. Hardware Overview"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp2
203968"></a>Chapter 4. Hardware Overview</h2></div></div></div><p>
TeleMetrum is a 1 inch by 2.75 inch circuit board. It was designed to
fit inside coupler for 29mm air-frame tubing, but using it in a tube that
small in diameter may require some creativity in mounting and wiring
connection, and, on TeleMetrum, you can unplug the integrated GPS
antenna and select an appropriate off-board GPS antenna with
cable terminating in a U.FL connector.
- </p></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 5. System Operation"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
2252792"></a>Chapter 5. System Operation</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp2166840">1. Firmware Modes </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp2590808">2. GPS </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp2451080">3. Controlling An Altimeter Over The Radio Link</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp2468312">4. Ground Testing </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp1692104">5. Radio Link </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp138056">6. Configurable Parameters</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp138904">6.1. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp140048">6.2. Apogee Delay</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp141880">6.3. Main Deployment Altitude</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp142456">6.4. Maximum Flight Log</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp74024">6.5. Ignite Mode</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp75352">6.6. Pad Orientation</a></span></dt></dl></dd></dl></div><div class="section" title="1. Firmware Modes"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp2166840"></a>1. Firmware Modes </h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 5. System Operation"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
3576752"></a>Chapter 5. System Operation</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp2648960">1. Firmware Modes </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp843848">2. GPS </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp1474008">3. Controlling An Altimeter Over The Radio Link</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp8640">4. Ground Testing </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp53640">5. Radio Link </a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp13080">6. Configurable Parameters</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp54304">6.1. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp55472">6.2. Apogee Delay</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp57856">6.3. Main Deployment Altitude</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp58968">6.4. Maximum Flight Log</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp62744">6.5. Ignite Mode</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp64088">6.6. Pad Orientation</a></span></dt></dl></dd></dl></div><div class="section" title="1. Firmware Modes"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp2648960"></a>1. Firmware Modes </h2></div></div></div><p>
The AltOS firmware build for the altimeters has two
fundamental modes, "idle" and "flight". Which of these modes
the firmware operates in is determined at start up time. For
step of a rickety step-ladder or hanging off the side of a launch
tower with a screw-driver trying to turn on your avionics before
installing igniters!
- </p></div><div class="section" title="2. GPS"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
2590808"></a>2. GPS </h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="2. GPS"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
843848"></a>2. GPS </h2></div></div></div><p>
TeleMetrum includes a complete GPS receiver. A complete explanation
of how GPS works is beyond the scope of this manual, but the bottom
line is that the TeleMetrum GPS receiver needs to lock onto at least
is turned back on, the GPS system should lock very quickly, typically
long before igniter installation and return to the flight line are
complete.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="3. Controlling An Altimeter Over The Radio Link"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
2451080"></a>3. Controlling An Altimeter Over The Radio Link</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="3. Controlling An Altimeter Over The Radio Link"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
1474008"></a>3. Controlling An Altimeter Over The Radio Link</h2></div></div></div><p>
One of the unique features of the Altus Metrum system is
the ability to create a two way command link between TeleDongle
and an altimeter using the digital radio transceivers built into
lights on the devices. The red LED will flash each time a packet
is tramsitted, while the green LED will light up on TeleDongle when
it is waiting to receive a packet from the altimeter.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="4. Ground Testing"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
2468312"></a>4. Ground Testing </h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="4. Ground Testing"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
8640"></a>4. Ground Testing </h2></div></div></div><p>
An important aspect of preparing a rocket using electronic deployment
for flight is ground testing the recovery system. Thanks
to the bi-directional radio link central to the Altus Metrum system,
manual command. You can now command the altimeter to fire the apogee
or main charges from a safe distance using your computer and
TeleDongle and the Fire Igniter tab to complete ejection testing.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="5. Radio Link"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
1692104"></a>5. Radio Link </h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="5. Radio Link"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
53640"></a>5. Radio Link </h2></div></div></div><p>
The chip our boards are based on incorporates an RF transceiver, but
it's not a full duplex system... each end can only be transmitting or
receiving at any given moment. So we had to decide how to manage the
with a 5-element yagi on the ground. We hope to fly boards to higher
altitudes over time, and would of course appreciate customer feedback
on performance in higher altitude flights!
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6. Configurable Parameters"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp13
8056"></a>6. Configurable Parameters</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6. Configurable Parameters"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp13
080"></a>6. Configurable Parameters</h2></div></div></div><p>
Configuring an Altus Metrum altimeter for flight is very
simple. Even on our baro-only TeleMini board, the use of a Kalman
filter means there is no need to set a "mach delay". The few
configurable parameters can all be set using AltosUI over USB or
or radio link via TeleDongle.
- </p><div class="section" title="6.1. Radio Frequency"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
138904"></a>6.1. Radio Frequency</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p><div class="section" title="6.1. Radio Frequency"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
54304"></a>6.1. Radio Frequency</h3></div></div></div><p>
Altus Metrum boards support radio frequencies in the 70cm
band. By default, the configuration interface provides a
list of 10 "standard" frequencies in 100kHz channels starting at
frequency will be used to avoid interference. And of course, both
altimeter and TeleDongle must be configured to the same
frequency to successfully communicate with each other.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.2. Apogee Delay"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
140048"></a>6.2. Apogee Delay</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.2. Apogee Delay"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
55472"></a>6.2. Apogee Delay</h3></div></div></div><p>
Apogee delay is the number of seconds after the altimeter detects flight
apogee that the drogue charge should be fired. In most cases, this
should be left at the default of 0. However, if you are flying
or 3 seconds later to avoid any chance of both charges
firing simultaneously. We've flown several air-frames this
way quite happily, including Keith's successful L3 cert.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.3. Main Deployment Altitude"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
141880"></a>6.3. Main Deployment Altitude</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.3. Main Deployment Altitude"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
57856"></a>6.3. Main Deployment Altitude</h3></div></div></div><p>
By default, the altimeter will fire the main deployment charge at an
elevation of 250 meters (about 820 feet) above ground. We think this
is a good elevation for most air-frames, but feel free to change this
deployment elevation for the backup altimeter to be something lower
than the primary so that both pyrotechnic charges don't fire
simultaneously.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.4. Maximum Flight Log"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
142456"></a>6.4. Maximum Flight Log</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.4. Maximum Flight Log"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
58968"></a>6.4. Maximum Flight Log</h3></div></div></div><p>
TeleMetrum version 1.1 and 1.2 have 2MB of on-board flash storage,
enough to hold over 40 minutes of data at full data rate
(100 samples/second). TeleMetrum 1.0 has 1MB of on-board
the limited storage, TeleMini cannot hold data for more than
one flight, and so must be erased after each flight or it
will not capture data for subsequent flights.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.5. Ignite Mode"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
74024"></a>6.5. Ignite Mode</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.5. Ignite Mode"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
62744"></a>6.5. Ignite Mode</h3></div></div></div><p>
Instead of firing one charge at apogee and another charge at
a fixed height above the ground, you can configure the
altimeter to fire both at apogee or both during
main allows some level of redundancy without needing two
flight computers. In Redundant Apogee or Redundant Main
mode, the two charges will be fired two seconds apart.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.6. Pad Orientation"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
75352"></a>6.6. Pad Orientation</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.6. Pad Orientation"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
64088"></a>6.6. Pad Orientation</h3></div></div></div><p>
TeleMetrum measures acceleration along the axis of the
board. Which way the board is oriented affects the sign of
the acceleration value. Instead of trying to guess which way
TeleMetrum board connected to the 70cm antenna to be nearest
the nose of the rocket, with the end containing the screw
terminals nearest the tail.
- </p></div></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 6. AltosUI"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
76608"></a>Chapter 6. AltosUI</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp77696">1. Monitor Flight</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp174680">1.1. Launch Pad</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp183328">1.2. Ascent</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp185496">1.3. Descent</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp188720">1.4. Landed</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp191664">1.5. Site Map</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3912568">2. Save Flight Data</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3915488">3. Replay Flight</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3916736">4. Graph Data</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3919248">5. Export Data</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3920256">5.1. Comma Separated Value Format</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3921832">5.2. Keyhole Markup Language (for Google Earth)</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3922664">6. Configure Altimeter</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3926840">6.1. Main Deploy Altitude</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3927824">6.2. Apogee Delay</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3928864">6.3. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3929776">6.4. Radio Calibration</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3930840">6.5. Callsign</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3931576">6.6. Maximum Flight Log Size</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3932440">6.7. Ignite Mode</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3935280">6.8. Pad Orientation</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3937504">7. Configure AltosUI</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3938128">7.1. Voice Settings</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3940400">7.2. Log Directory</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3941624">7.3. Callsign</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3942592">7.4. Imperial Units</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3943496">7.5. Font Size</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3944200">7.6. Serial Debug</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3945112">7.7. Manage Frequencies</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3946096">8. Configure Groundstation</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3950016">8.1. Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3951000">8.2. Radio Calibration</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3951992">9. Flash Image</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3955064">10. Fire Igniter</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3957168">11. Scan Channels</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3958072">12. Load Maps</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3960200">13. Monitor Idle</a></span></dt></dl></div><p>
+ </p></div></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 6. AltosUI"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
65864"></a>Chapter 6. AltosUI</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp66944">1. Monitor Flight</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp72832">1.1. Launch Pad</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp78800">1.2. Ascent</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp80968">1.3. Descent</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp84192">1.4. Landed</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3850320">1.5. Site Map</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3852600">2. Save Flight Data</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3855520">3. Replay Flight</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3856768">4. Graph Data</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3859280">5. Export Data</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3860288">5.1. Comma Separated Value Format</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3861864">5.2. Keyhole Markup Language (for Google Earth)</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3862696">6. Configure Altimeter</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3866872">6.1. Main Deploy Altitude</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3867856">6.2. Apogee Delay</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3868896">6.3. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3869808">6.4. Radio Calibration</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3870872">6.5. Callsign</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3871608">6.6. Maximum Flight Log Size</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3872472">6.7. Ignite Mode</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3875312">6.8. Pad Orientation</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3877536">7. Configure AltosUI</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3878160">7.1. Voice Settings</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3880432">7.2. Log Directory</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3881656">7.3. Callsign</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3882624">7.4. Imperial Units</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3883528">7.5. Font Size</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3884232">7.6. Serial Debug</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3885144">7.7. Manage Frequencies</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3886128">8. Configure Groundstation</a></span></dt><dd><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3890048">8.1. Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3891032">8.2. Radio Calibration</a></span></dt></dl></dd><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3892024">9. Flash Image</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3895096">10. Fire Igniter</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3897200">11. Scan Channels</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3898104">12. Load Maps</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3900232">13. Monitor Idle</a></span></dt></dl></div><p>
The AltosUI program provides a graphical user interface for
interacting with the Altus Metrum product family, including
TeleMetrum, TeleMini and TeleDongle. AltosUI can monitor telemetry data,
buttons, one for each major activity in the system. This manual
is split into chapters, each of which documents one of the tasks
provided from the top-level toolbar.
- </p><div class="section" title="1. Monitor Flight"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
77696"></a>1. Monitor Flight</h2></div><div><h3 class="subtitle">Receive, Record and Display Telemetry Data</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p><div class="section" title="1. Monitor Flight"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
66944"></a>1. Monitor Flight</h2></div><div><h3 class="subtitle">Receive, Record and Display Telemetry Data</h3></div></div></div><p>
Selecting this item brings up a dialog box listing all of the
connected TeleDongle devices. When you choose one of these,
AltosUI will create a window to display telemetry data as
data relevant to the current state of the flight. You can select
other tabs at any time. The final 'table' tab displays all of
the raw telemetry values in one place in a spreadsheet-like format.
- </p><div class="section" title="1.1. Launch Pad"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
174680"></a>1.1. Launch Pad</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p><div class="section" title="1.1. Launch Pad"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
72832"></a>1.1. Launch Pad</h3></div></div></div><p>
The 'Launch Pad' tab shows information used to decide when the
rocket is ready for flight. The first elements include red/green
indicators, if any of these is red, you'll want to evaluate
and altitude, averaging many reported positions to improve the
accuracy of the fix.
</p><p>
- </p></div><div class="section" title="1.2. Ascent"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
183328"></a>1.2. Ascent</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="1.2. Ascent"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
78800"></a>1.2. Ascent</h3></div></div></div><p>
This tab is shown during Boost, Fast and Coast
phases. The information displayed here helps monitor the
rocket as it heads towards apogee.
Finally, the current igniter voltages are reported as in the
Launch Pad tab. This can help diagnose deployment failures
caused by wiring which comes loose under high acceleration.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="1.3. Descent"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
185496"></a>1.3. Descent</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="1.3. Descent"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
80968"></a>1.3. Descent</h3></div></div></div><p>
Once the rocket has reached apogee and (we hope) activated the
apogee charge, attention switches to tracking the rocket on
the way back to the ground, and for dual-deploy flights,
e-matches are designed to retain continuity even after being
fired, and will continue to show as green or return from red to
green after firing.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="1.4. Landed"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
188720"></a>1.4. Landed</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="1.4. Landed"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
84192"></a>1.4. Landed</h3></div></div></div><p>
Once the rocket is on the ground, attention switches to
recovery. While the radio signal is often lost once the
rocket is on the ground, the last reported GPS position is
To get more detailed information about the flight, you can
click on the 'Graph Flight' button which will bring up a
graph window for the current flight.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="1.5. Site Map"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
191664"></a>1.5. Site Map</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="1.5. Site Map"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp
3850320"></a>1.5. Site Map</h3></div></div></div><p>
When the TeleMetrum has a GPS fix, the Site Map tab will map
the rocket's position to make it easier for you to locate the
rocket, both while it is in the air, and when it has landed. The
</p><p>
You can pre-load images for your favorite launch sites
before you leave home; check out the 'Preload Maps' section below.
- </p></div></div><div class="section" title="2. Save Flight Data"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
912568"></a>2. Save Flight Data</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div></div><div class="section" title="2. Save Flight Data"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
852600"></a>2. Save Flight Data</h2></div></div></div><p>
The altimeter records flight data to its internal flash memory.
TeleMetrum data is recorded at a much higher rate than the telemetry
system can handle, and is not subject to radio drop-outs. As
The file name for each flight log is computed automatically
from the recorded flight date, altimeter serial number and
flight number information.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="3. Replay Flight"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
915488"></a>3. Replay Flight</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="3. Replay Flight"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
855520"></a>3. Replay Flight</h2></div></div></div><p>
Select this button and you are prompted to select a flight
record file, either a .telem file recording telemetry data or a
.eeprom file containing flight data saved from the altimeter
Once a flight record is selected, the flight monitor interface
is displayed and the flight is re-enacted in real time. Check
the Monitor Flight chapter above to learn how this window operates.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="4. Graph Data"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
916736"></a>4. Graph Data</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="4. Graph Data"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
856768"></a>4. Graph Data</h2></div></div></div><p>
Select this button and you are prompted to select a flight
record file, either a .telem file recording telemetry data or a
.eeprom file containing flight data saved from
Note that telemetry files will generally produce poor graphs
due to the lower sampling rate and missed telemetry packets.
Use saved flight data in .eeprom files for graphing where possible.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="5. Export Data"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
919248"></a>5. Export Data</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="5. Export Data"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
859280"></a>5. Export Data</h2></div></div></div><p>
This tool takes the raw data files and makes them available for
external analysis. When you select this button, you are prompted to
select a flight
data). Next, a second dialog appears which is used to select
where to write the resulting file. It has a selector to choose
between CSV and KML file formats.
- </p><div class="section" title="5.1. Comma Separated Value Format"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
920256"></a>5.1. Comma Separated Value Format</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p><div class="section" title="5.1. Comma Separated Value Format"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
860288"></a>5.1. Comma Separated Value Format</h3></div></div></div><p>
This is a text file containing the data in a form suitable for
import into a spreadsheet or other external data analysis
tool. The first few lines of the file contain the version and
the sensor values are converted to standard units, with the
barometric data reported in both pressure, altitude and
height above pad units.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="5.2. Keyhole Markup Language (for Google Earth)"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
921832"></a>5.2. Keyhole Markup Language (for Google Earth)</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="5.2. Keyhole Markup Language (for Google Earth)"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
861864"></a>5.2. Keyhole Markup Language (for Google Earth)</h3></div></div></div><p>
This is the format used by Google Earth to provide an overlay
within that application. With this, you can use Google Earth to
see the whole flight path in 3D.
- </p></div></div><div class="section" title="6. Configure Altimeter"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
922664"></a>6. Configure Altimeter</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div></div><div class="section" title="6. Configure Altimeter"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
862696"></a>6. Configure Altimeter</h2></div></div></div><p>
Select this button and then select either a TeleMetrum or
TeleDongle Device from the list provided. Selecting a TeleDongle
device will use the radio link to configure a remote altimeter.
lost.
</p></li></ul></div><p>
The rest of the dialog contains the parameters to be configured.
- </p><div class="section" title="6.1. Main Deploy Altitude"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
926840"></a>6.1. Main Deploy Altitude</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p><div class="section" title="6.1. Main Deploy Altitude"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
866872"></a>6.1. Main Deploy Altitude</h3></div></div></div><p>
This sets the altitude (above the recorded pad altitude) at
which the 'main' igniter will fire. The drop-down menu shows
some common values, but you can edit the text directly and
choose whatever you like. If the apogee charge fires below
this altitude, then the main charge will fire two seconds
after the apogee charge fires.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.2. Apogee Delay"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
927824"></a>6.2. Apogee Delay</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.2. Apogee Delay"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
867856"></a>6.2. Apogee Delay</h3></div></div></div><p>
When flying redundant electronics, it's often important to
ensure that multiple apogee charges don't fire at precisely
the same time, as that can over pressurize the apogee deployment
Delay parameter tells the flight computer to fire the apogee
charge a certain number of seconds after apogee has been
detected.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.3. Radio Frequency"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
928864"></a>6.3. Radio Frequency</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.3. Radio Frequency"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
868896"></a>6.3. Radio Frequency</h3></div></div></div><p>
This configures which of the configured frequencies to use for both
telemetry and packet command mode. Note that if you set this
value via packet command mode, you will have to reconfigure
the TeleDongle frequency before you will be able to use packet
command mode again.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.4. Radio Calibration"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
929776"></a>6.4. Radio Calibration</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.4. Radio Calibration"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
869808"></a>6.4. Radio Calibration</h3></div></div></div><p>
The radios in every Altus Metrum device are calibrated at the
factory to ensure that they transmit and receive on the
specified frequency. If you need to you can adjust the calibration
the value means, read the appendix on calibration and/or the source
code for more information. To change a TeleDongle's calibration,
you must reprogram the unit completely.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.5. Callsign"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
930840"></a>6.5. Callsign</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.5. Callsign"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
870872"></a>6.5. Callsign</h3></div></div></div><p>
This sets the call sign included in each telemetry packet. Set this
as needed to conform to your local radio regulations.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.6. Maximum Flight Log Size"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
931576"></a>6.6. Maximum Flight Log Size</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.6. Maximum Flight Log Size"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
871608"></a>6.6. Maximum Flight Log Size</h3></div></div></div><p>
This sets the space (in kilobytes) allocated for each flight
log. The available space will be divided into chunks of this
size. A smaller value will allow more flights to be stored,
a larger value will record data from longer flights.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6.7. Ignite Mode"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
932440"></a>6.7. Ignite Mode</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6.7. Ignite Mode"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
872472"></a>6.7. Ignite Mode</h3></div></div></div><p>
TeleMetrum and TeleMini provide two igniter channels as they
were originally designed as dual-deploy flight
computers. This configuration parameter allows the two
Altitude setting during descent. The 'apogee'
channel is fired first, followed after a two second
delay by the 'main' channel.
- </p></li></ul></div></div><div class="section" title="6.8. Pad Orientation"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
935280"></a>6.8. Pad Orientation</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></li></ul></div></div><div class="section" title="6.8. Pad Orientation"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
875312"></a>6.8. Pad Orientation</h3></div></div></div><p>
Because it includes an accelerometer, TeleMetrum is
sensitive to the orientation of the board. By default, it
expects the antenna end to point forward. This parameter
Antenna Down. In this mode, the antenna end of the
TeleMetrum board must point aft, in line with the
expected flight path.
- </p></li></ul></div></div></div><div class="section" title="7. Configure AltosUI"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
937504"></a>7. Configure AltosUI</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></li></ul></div></div></div><div class="section" title="7. Configure AltosUI"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
877536"></a>7. Configure AltosUI</h2></div></div></div><p>
This button presents a dialog so that you can configure the AltosUI global settings.
- </p><div class="section" title="7.1. Voice Settings"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
938128"></a>7.1. Voice Settings</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p><div class="section" title="7.1. Voice Settings"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
878160"></a>7.1. Voice Settings</h3></div></div></div><p>
AltosUI provides voice announcements during flight so that you
can keep your eyes on the sky and still get information about
the current flight status. However, sometimes you don't want
Test Voice—Plays a short message allowing you to verify
that the audio system is working and the volume settings
are reasonable
- </p></li></ul></div></div><div class="section" title="7.2. Log Directory"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
940400"></a>7.2. Log Directory</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></li></ul></div></div><div class="section" title="7.2. Log Directory"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
880432"></a>7.2. Log Directory</h3></div></div></div><p>
AltosUI logs all telemetry data and saves all TeleMetrum flash
data to this directory. This directory is also used as the
staring point when selecting data files for display or export.
Click on the directory name to bring up a directory choosing
dialog, select a new directory and click 'Select Directory' to
change where AltosUI reads and writes data files.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="7.3. Callsign"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
941624"></a>7.3. Callsign</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="7.3. Callsign"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
881656"></a>7.3. Callsign</h3></div></div></div><p>
This value is transmitted in each command packet sent from
TeleDongle and received from an altimeter. It is not used in
telemetry mode, as the callsign configured in the altimeter board
is included in all telemetry packets. Configure this
with the AltosUI operators call sign as needed to comply with
your local radio regulations.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="7.4. Imperial Units"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
942592"></a>7.4. Imperial Units</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="7.4. Imperial Units"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
882624"></a>7.4. Imperial Units</h3></div></div></div><p>
This switches between metric units (meters) and imperial
units (feet and miles). This affects the display of values
use during flight monitoring, data graphing and all of the
voice announcements. It does not change the units used when
exporting to CSV files, those are always produced in metric units.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="7.5. Font Size"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
943496"></a>7.5. Font Size</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="7.5. Font Size"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
883528"></a>7.5. Font Size</h3></div></div></div><p>
Selects the set of fonts used in the flight monitor
window. Choose between the small, medium and large sets.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="7.6. Serial Debug"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
944200"></a>7.6. Serial Debug</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="7.6. Serial Debug"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
884232"></a>7.6. Serial Debug</h3></div></div></div><p>
This causes all communication with a connected device to be
dumped to the console from which AltosUI was started. If
you've started it from an icon or menu entry, the output
will simply be discarded. This mode can be useful to debug
various serial communication issues.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="7.7. Manage Frequencies"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
945112"></a>7.7. Manage Frequencies</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="7.7. Manage Frequencies"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
885144"></a>7.7. Manage Frequencies</h3></div></div></div><p>
This brings up a dialog where you can configure the set of
frequencies shown in the various frequency menus. You can
add as many as you like, or even reconfigure the default
set. Changing this list does not affect the frequency
settings of any devices, it only changes the set of
frequencies shown in the menus.
- </p></div></div><div class="section" title="8. Configure Groundstation"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
946096"></a>8. Configure Groundstation</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div></div><div class="section" title="8. Configure Groundstation"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
886128"></a>8. Configure Groundstation</h2></div></div></div><p>
Select this button and then select a TeleDongle Device from the list provided.
</p><p>
The first few lines of the dialog provide information about the
lost.
</p></li></ul></div><p>
The rest of the dialog contains the parameters to be configured.
- </p><div class="section" title="8.1. Frequency"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
950016"></a>8.1. Frequency</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p><div class="section" title="8.1. Frequency"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
890048"></a>8.1. Frequency</h3></div></div></div><p>
This configures the frequency to use for both telemetry and
packet command mode. Set this before starting any operation
involving packet command mode so that it will use the right
frequency. Telemetry monitoring mode also provides a menu to
change the frequency, and that menu also sets the same Java
preference value used here.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="8.2. Radio Calibration"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
951000"></a>8.2. Radio Calibration</h3></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="8.2. Radio Calibration"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h3 class="title"><a name="idp3
891032"></a>8.2. Radio Calibration</h3></div></div></div><p>
The radios in every Altus Metrum device are calibrated at the
factory to ensure that they transmit and receive on the
specified frequency. To change a TeleDongle's calibration,
you must reprogram the unit completely, so this entry simply
shows the current value and doesn't allow any changes.
- </p></div></div><div class="section" title="9. Flash Image"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
951992"></a>9. Flash Image</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div></div><div class="section" title="9. Flash Image"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
892024"></a>9. Flash Image</h2></div></div></div><p>
This reprograms any Altus Metrum device by using a TeleMetrum
or TeleDongle as a programming dongle. Please read the
directions for flashing devices in the Updating Device
will have to unplug it and then plug it back in for the USB
connection to reset so that you can communicate with the device
again.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="10. Fire Igniter"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
955064"></a>10. Fire Igniter</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="10. Fire Igniter"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
895096"></a>10. Fire Igniter</h2></div></div></div><p>
This activates the igniter circuits in TeleMetrum to help test
recovery systems deployment. Because this command can operate
over the Packet Command Link, you can prepare the rocket as
you have 10 seconds to press the 'Fire' button or the system
will deactivate, at which point you start over again at
selecting the desired igniter.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="11. Scan Channels"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
957168"></a>11. Scan Channels</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="11. Scan Channels"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
897200"></a>11. Scan Channels</h2></div></div></div><p>
This listens for telemetry packets on all of the configured
frequencies, displaying information about each device it
receives a packet from. You can select which of the three
telemetry formats should be tried; by default, it only listens
for the standard telemetry packets used in v1.0 and later
firmware.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="12. Load Maps"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
958072"></a>12. Load Maps</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="12. Load Maps"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3
898104"></a>12. Load Maps</h2></div></div></div><p>
Before heading out to a new launch site, you can use this to
load satellite images in case you don't have internet
connectivity at the site. This loads a fairly large area
once, so if you load more than one launch site, you may get
some gray areas in the map which indicate that Google is tired
of sending data to you. Try again later.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="13. Monitor Idle"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
60200"></a>13. Monitor Idle</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="13. Monitor Idle"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
00232"></a>13. Monitor Idle</h2></div></div></div><p>
This brings up a dialog similar to the Monitor Flight UI,
except it works with the altimeter in "idle" mode by sending
query commands to discover the current state rather than
listening for telemetry packets.
- </p></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 7. Using Altus Metrum Products"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp39
61072"></a>Chapter 7. Using Altus Metrum Products</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3961392">1. Being Legal</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3962352">2. In the Rocket</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3964464">3. On the Ground</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3971176">4. Data Analysis</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3973696">5. Future Plans</a></span></dt></dl></div><div class="section" title="1. Being Legal"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3961392"></a>1. Being Legal</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 7. Using Altus Metrum Products"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp39
01104"></a>Chapter 7. Using Altus Metrum Products</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3901424">1. Being Legal</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3902440">2. In the Rocket</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3904984">3. On the Ground</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3911792">4. Data Analysis</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3913544">5. Future Plans</a></span></dt></dl></div><div class="section" title="1. Being Legal"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3901424"></a>1. Being Legal</h2></div></div></div><p>
First off, in the US, you need an <a class="ulink" href="http://www.altusmetrum.org/Radio/" target="_top">amateur radio license</a> or
other authorization to legally operate the radio transmitters that are part
of our products.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="2. In the Rocket"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
62352"></a>2. In the Rocket</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="2. In the Rocket"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
02440"></a>2. In the Rocket</h2></div></div></div><p>
In the rocket itself, you just need a <a class="ulink" href="http://www.altusmetrum.org/TeleMetrum/" target="_top">TeleMetrum</a> or
<a class="ulink" href="http://www.altusmetrum.org/TeleMini/" target="_top">TeleMini</a> board and
a single-cell, 3.7 volt nominal Li-Po rechargeable battery. An
which is opaque to RF signals, you may choose to have an SMA connector
installed so that you can run a coaxial cable to an antenna mounted
elsewhere in the rocket.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="3. On the Ground"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
64464"></a>3. On the Ground</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="3. On the Ground"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
04984"></a>3. On the Ground</h2></div></div></div><p>
To receive the data stream from the rocket, you need an antenna and short
feed-line connected to one of our <a class="ulink" href="http://www.altusmetrum.org/TeleDongle/" target="_top">TeleDongle</a> units. The
TeleDongle in turn plugs directly into the USB port on a notebook
</a>
The 440-3 and 440-5 are both good choices for finding a
TeleMetrum- or TeleMini- equipped rocket when used with a suitable 70cm HT.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="4. Data Analysis"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
71176"></a>4. Data Analysis</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="4. Data Analysis"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
11792"></a>4. Data Analysis</h2></div></div></div><p>
Our software makes it easy to log the data from each flight, both the
telemetry received during the flight itself, and the more
complete data log recorded in the flash memory on the altimeter
Our ultimate goal is to emit a set of files for each flight that can be
published as a web page per flight, or just viewed on your local disk with
a web browser.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="5. Future Plans"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
73696"></a>5. Future Plans</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="5. Future Plans"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
13544"></a>5. Future Plans</h2></div></div></div><p>
In the future, we intend to offer "companion boards" for the rocket that will
plug in to TeleMetrum to collect additional data, provide more pyro channels,
and so forth.
if you have some great idea for an addition to the current Altus Metrum family,
feel free to dive in and help! Or let us know what you'd like to see that
we aren't already working on, and maybe we'll get excited about it too...
- </p></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 8. Altimeter Installation Recommendations"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp39
75736"></a>Chapter 8. Altimeter Installation Recommendations</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3976720">1. Mounting the Altimeter</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3979056">2. Dealing with the Antenna</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3983040">3. Preserving GPS Reception</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3985424">4. Radio Frequency Interference</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3989152">5. The Barometric Sensor</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3990992">6. Ground Testing</a></span></dt></dl></div><p>
+ </p></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 8. Altimeter Installation Recommendations"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp39
15584"></a>Chapter 8. Altimeter Installation Recommendations</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3916568">1. Mounting the Altimeter</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3918904">2. Dealing with the Antenna</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3923232">3. Preserving GPS Reception</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3925616">4. Radio Frequency Interference</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3929344">5. The Barometric Sensor</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3931184">6. Ground Testing</a></span></dt></dl></div><p>
Building high-power rockets that fly safely is hard enough. Mix
in some sophisticated electronics and a bunch of radio energy
and oftentimes you find few perfect solutions. This chapter
contains some suggestions about how to install Altus Metrum
products into the rocket air-frame, including how to safely and
reliably mix a variety of electronics into the same air-frame.
- </p><div class="section" title="1. Mounting the Altimeter"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
76720"></a>1. Mounting the Altimeter</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p><div class="section" title="1. Mounting the Altimeter"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
16568"></a>1. Mounting the Altimeter</h2></div></div></div><p>
The first consideration is to ensure that the altimeter is
securely fastened to the air-frame. For TeleMetrum, we use
nylon standoffs and nylon screws; they're good to at least 50G
Watch for any metal touching components on the
board. Shorting out connections on the bottom of the board
can cause the altimeter to fail during flight.
- </li></ol></div></div><div class="section" title="2. Dealing with the Antenna"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
79056"></a>2. Dealing with the Antenna</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </li></ol></div></div><div class="section" title="2. Dealing with the Antenna"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
18904"></a>2. Dealing with the Antenna</h2></div></div></div><p>
The antenna supplied is just a piece of solid, insulated,
wire. If it gets damaged or broken, it can be easily
replaced. It should be kept straight and not cut; bending or
SMA connector, and then run 50Ω coax from the board to the
antenna. Building a remote antenna is beyond the scope of this
manual.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="3. Preserving GPS Reception"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
83040"></a>3. Preserving GPS Reception</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="3. Preserving GPS Reception"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
23232"></a>3. Preserving GPS Reception</h2></div></div></div><p>
The GPS antenna and receiver in TeleMetrum are highly
sensitive and normally have no trouble tracking enough
satellites to provide accurate position information for
antenna as that's covered with a ground plane. But, keep
wires and metal out from above the patch antenna.
</li></ol></div><p>
- </p></div><div class="section" title="4. Radio Frequency Interference"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
85424"></a>4. Radio Frequency Interference</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="4. Radio Frequency Interference"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
25616"></a>4. Radio Frequency Interference</h2></div></div></div><p>
Any altimeter will generate RFI; the digital circuits use
high-frequency clocks that spray radio interference across a
wide band. Altus Metrum altimeters generate intentional radio
70cm amateur band, so you should avoid lengths that are a
simple ratio of that length; essentially any multiple of 1/4
of the wavelength (17.5cm).
- </li></ul></div></div><div class="section" title="5. The Barometric Sensor"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
89152"></a>5. The Barometric Sensor</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </li></ul></div></div><div class="section" title="5. The Barometric Sensor"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
29344"></a>5. The Barometric Sensor</h2></div></div></div><p>
Altusmetrum altimeters measure altitude with a barometric
sensor, essentially measuring the amount of air above the
rocket to figure out how high it is. A large number of
chemical damage from the products of APCP or BP combustion, so
make sure the ebay is carefully sealed from any compartment
which contains ejection charges or motors.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="6. Ground Testing"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
90992"></a>6. Ground Testing</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="6. Ground Testing"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
31184"></a>6. Ground Testing</h2></div></div></div><p>
The most important aspect of any installation is careful
ground testing. Bringing an air-frame up to the LCO table which
hasn't been ground tested can lead to delays or ejection
interface through a TeleDongle to command each charge to
fire. Make sure the charge is sufficient to robustly separate
the air-frame and deploy the recovery system.
- </p></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 9. Updating Device Firmware"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp39
93128"></a>Chapter 9. Updating Device Firmware</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3995168">1. Updating TeleMetrum Firmware</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4000512">2. Updating TeleMini Firmware</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4005928">3. Updating TeleDongle Firmware</a></span></dt></dl></div><p>
+ </p></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 9. Updating Device Firmware"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp39
33320"></a>Chapter 9. Updating Device Firmware</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3935760">1. Updating TeleMetrum Firmware</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3941064">2. Updating TeleMini Firmware</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3946480">3. Updating TeleDongle Firmware</a></span></dt></dl></div><p>
The big concept to understand is that you have to use a
TeleDongle as a programmer to update a TeleMetrum or TeleMini,
and a TeleMetrum or other TeleDongle to program the TeleDongle
version from <a class="ulink" href="http://www.altusmetrum.org/AltOS/" target="_top">http://www.altusmetrum.org/AltOS/</a>.
</p><p>
We recommend updating the altimeter first, before updating TeleDongle.
- </p><div class="section" title="1. Updating TeleMetrum Firmware"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
95168"></a>1. Updating TeleMetrum Firmware</h2></div></div></div><div class="orderedlist"><ol class="orderedlist" type="1"><li class="listitem">
+ </p><div class="section" title="1. Updating TeleMetrum Firmware"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp39
35760"></a>1. Updating TeleMetrum Firmware</h2></div></div></div><div class="orderedlist"><ol class="orderedlist" type="1"><li class="listitem">
Find the 'programming cable' that you got as part of the starter
kit, that has a red 8-pin MicroMaTch connector on one end and a
red 4-pin MicroMaTch connector on the other end.
the version, etc.
</li><li class="listitem">
If something goes wrong, give it another try.
- </li></ol></div></div><div class="section" title="2. Updating TeleMini Firmware"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
4000512"></a>2. Updating TeleMini Firmware</h2></div></div></div><div class="orderedlist"><ol class="orderedlist" type="1"><li class="listitem">
+ </li></ol></div></div><div class="section" title="2. Updating TeleMini Firmware"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
3941064"></a>2. Updating TeleMini Firmware</h2></div></div></div><div class="orderedlist"><ol class="orderedlist" type="1"><li class="listitem">
You'll need a special 'programming cable' to reprogram the
TeleMini. It's available on the Altus Metrum web store, or
you can make your own using an 8-pin MicroMaTch connector on
letting it come up in "flight" mode and listening for telemetry.
</li><li class="listitem">
If something goes wrong, give it another try.
- </li></ol></div></div><div class="section" title="3. Updating TeleDongle Firmware"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
4005928"></a>3. Updating TeleDongle Firmware</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </li></ol></div></div><div class="section" title="3. Updating TeleDongle Firmware"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
3946480"></a>3. Updating TeleDongle Firmware</h2></div></div></div><p>
Updating TeleDongle's firmware is just like updating TeleMetrum or TeleMini
firmware, but you use either a TeleMetrum or another TeleDongle as the programmer.
</p><div class="orderedlist"><ol class="orderedlist" type="1"><li class="listitem">
slightly to extract the connector. We used a locking connector on
TeleMetrum to help ensure that the cabling to companion boards
used in a rocket don't ever come loose accidentally in flight.
- </p></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 10. Hardware Specifications"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
4013376"></a>Chapter 10. Hardware Specifications</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4013696">1. TeleMetrum Specifications</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4019424">2. TeleMini Specifications</a></span></dt></dl></div><div class="section" title="1. TeleMetrum Specifications"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp4013696"></a>1. TeleMetrum Specifications</h2></div></div></div><div class="itemizedlist"><ul class="itemizedlist" type="disc"><li class="listitem"><p>
+ </p></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 10. Hardware Specifications"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
3953536"></a>Chapter 10. Hardware Specifications</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3953856">1. TeleMetrum Specifications</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3959584">2. TeleMini Specifications</a></span></dt></dl></div><div class="section" title="1. TeleMetrum Specifications"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp3953856"></a>1. TeleMetrum Specifications</h2></div></div></div><div class="itemizedlist"><ul class="itemizedlist" type="disc"><li class="listitem"><p>
Recording altimeter for model rocketry.
</p></li><li class="listitem"><p>
Supports dual deployment (can fire 2 ejection charges).
optional separate pyro battery if needed.
</p></li><li class="listitem"><p>
2.75 x 1 inch board designed to fit inside 29mm air-frame coupler tube.
- </p></li></ul></div></div><div class="section" title="2. TeleMini Specifications"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
4019424"></a>2. TeleMini Specifications</h2></div></div></div><div class="itemizedlist"><ul class="itemizedlist" type="disc"><li class="listitem"><p>
+ </p></li></ul></div></div><div class="section" title="2. TeleMini Specifications"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
3959584"></a>2. TeleMini Specifications</h2></div></div></div><div class="itemizedlist"><ul class="itemizedlist" type="disc"><li class="listitem"><p>
Recording altimeter for model rocketry.
</p></li><li class="listitem"><p>
Supports dual deployment (can fire 2 ejection charges).
optional separate pyro battery if needed.
</p></li><li class="listitem"><p>
1.5 x .5 inch board designed to fit inside 18mm air-frame coupler tube.
- </p></li></ul></div></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 11. FAQ"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
4024248"></a>Chapter 11. FAQ</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></li></ul></div></div></div><div class="chapter" title="Chapter 11. FAQ"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
3964408"></a>Chapter 11. FAQ</h2></div></div></div><p>
TeleMetrum seems to shut off when disconnected from the
computer. Make sure the battery is adequately charged. Remember the
unit will pull more power than the USB port can deliver before the
data after physically retrieving your altimeter. Make sure to save
the on-board data after each flight; while the TeleMetrum can store
multiple flights, you never know when you'll lose the altimeter...
- </p></div><div class="appendix" title="Appendix A. Notes for Older Software"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
4028528"></a>Appendix A. Notes for Older Software</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="appendix" title="Appendix A. Notes for Older Software"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
3968152"></a>Appendix A. Notes for Older Software</h2></div></div></div><p>
<span class="emphasis"><em>
Before AltosUI was written, using Altus Metrum devices required
some finesse with the Linux command line. There was a limited
the Log and Device menus. It has a wonderful display of the incoming
flight data and I am sure you will enjoy what it has to say to you
once you enable the voice output!
- </p></div><div class="appendix" title="Appendix B. Calibration"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
4045288"></a>Appendix B. Calibration</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4046264">1. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp4049584">2. TeleMetrum Accelerometer</a></span></dt></dl></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="appendix" title="Appendix B. Calibration"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
3984384"></a>Appendix B. Calibration</h2></div></div></div><div class="toc"><p><b>Table of Contents</b></p><dl><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3985360">1. Radio Frequency</a></span></dt><dt><span class="section"><a href="#idp3988680">2. TeleMetrum Accelerometer</a></span></dt></dl></div><p>
There are only two calibrations required for a TeleMetrum board, and
only one for TeleDongle and TeleMini. All boards are shipped from
the factory pre-calibrated, but the procedures are documented here
AltosUI, you must connect to the board with a serial terminal program
and interact directly with the on-board command interpreter to effect
calibration.
- </p><div class="section" title="1. Radio Frequency"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
4046264"></a>1. Radio Frequency</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p><div class="section" title="1. Radio Frequency"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
3985360"></a>1. Radio Frequency</h2></div></div></div><p>
The radio frequency is synthesized from a clock based on the 48 MHz
crystal on the board. The actual frequency of this oscillator
must be measured to generate a calibration constant. While our
radio frequency is reset to the default 434.550 Mhz. If you want
to use another frequency, you will have to set that again after
calibration is completed.
- </p></div><div class="section" title="2. TeleMetrum Accelerometer"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
4049584"></a>2. TeleMetrum Accelerometer</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div><div class="section" title="2. TeleMetrum Accelerometer"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title" style="clear: both"><a name="idp
3988680"></a>2. TeleMetrum Accelerometer</h2></div></div></div><p>
The TeleMetrum accelerometer we use has its own 5 volt power
supply and
the output must be passed through a resistive voltage divider to match
to the index post on the 4-pin end of the programming cable, and
power up the board. It should come up in 'idle mode' (two beeps),
allowing a re-cal.
- </p></div></div><div class="appendix" title="Appendix C. Release Notes"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
4054448"></a>Appendix C. Release Notes</h2></div></div></div><p>
+ </p></div></div><div class="appendix" title="Appendix C. Release Notes"><div class="titlepage"><div><div><h2 class="title"><a name="idp
3993576"></a>Appendix C. Release Notes</h2></div></div></div><p>
Version 1.1 is a minor release. It provides a few new features in AltosUI
and the AltOS firmware and fixes bugs.
</p><p>
projects / web / altusmetrum / commitdiff