Microwave Telemetry PTT FAQs

• How do I place an order?
• What is the lifetime of my battery powered transmitter?
• How do I calculate the duty cycle for the NANO or multi-season NANO timer?
• How do I set up the proper sensor data formatting for my PTT?
• How do I test my PTTs?
• How do I test my PTTs?

  The timer within the PTT-100 commands the transmitter on for the desired period (e.g., 8 hours) and switches it off for the desired sleep period (e.g., 72 hours.) The beginning of the ON time is set whenever the magnet is removed from the STOP position; however, the magnet must be on the STOP position for at least 70 seconds prior to removal. This ensures that when the internal microcomputer wakes up—which it does approximately once every minute (the transmission interval)—it will sense the timer reset condition. Because units with the standard timer cannot be locked to the real time, it does not matter at what time of day they are started. The timer will command the unit on for intervals that will sweep through the day during the course of several cycles.

  Before deploying your transmitter, it should be tested through the Argos system. Please refer to your user manual for instructions. To do this, initialize the timer as described above to switch the unit on. Place the transmitter outside in the open. It is important to choose a site where the horizon is not obstructed by buildings, because your satellite pass may be just above the horizon. Place the PTT away from metal enclosures, with the antenna pointing up. (A fence post, wooden pole or the apex of a roof may provide good locations for this.)

  Wrap the PTT in some insulating material such as expanded polystyrene or foam to simulate the insulation afforded by the bird’s feathers. This prevents rapid temperature fluctuations. Leave it there, if possible, for one complete duty cycle, or at least the ON period of the cycle. Log into Argos through Telnet to retrieve the results. Remember that it sometimes takes Argos over six hours to process the data and make it available (though it usually takes less than two hours).

  Only after you are satisfied that you are receiving data from Argos should you proceed with placing the transmitter on the bird. Reset the timer again while you are attaching the unit to the bird so that you do not have to wait for your first locations. Solar PTTs should be placed outside for six to eight hours to recharge. Leave the magnet on the STOP position to keep the PTT from transmitting, taking care that no tape at all covers any part of the solar array. Then reset them as described above before testing through Argos.

  If the transmitters are going to be deployed at a geographical location far from where they were tested, they should be allowed to transmit for at least one day close to the release site to initialize the Argos system. Alternatively, call Argos and ask them to initialize the system to the coordinates of the release area.

• How do I decode my data?
• How do I know if mortality mode Ground Track™ has been initiated in my PTT?
• How do I store my PTTs?
• Can my PTTs be refurbished?
• How do I send my PTTs back to you?
• Can I become your agent or distributor?
• Can I use one of your transmitters to track my spouse?

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Microwave Telemetry, Inc.
8835 Columbia 100 Parkway, Suites K&L
Columbia, MD 21045
410.715.5292