MREL STRATACAM User manual
MREL GROUP OF COMPANIES LIMITED
5-779 Sir John A MacDonald Blvd. Kingston, Ontario K7L 1H3 Canada
Operations Manual
Edition 1.0
StrataCam™ Mini Operations Manual - Edition 1.0
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Copyright Information
Publication History
Edition 1.0, May 2015
This edition of the StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera manual.
MREL Group of Companies Limited (MREL) warrants that the product is free from Manufacturer’s defects for a period of one (1) year from
the date of shipment to the Customer. This Warranty covers all parts and labour.
MREL does not warrant that the product will meet the Customer’s requirements, or that it will operate in the combinations which may be
selected by the Customer.
MREL does not and cannot warrant the performance or results that may be obtained by using the product. Accordingly, the product and its
documentation are sold “as is” without warranty as to their performance, merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. The Customer
assumes the entire risk as to the results and performance of the product.
MREL is committed to product innovation; accordingly product may undergo specification improvements without notice.
Copyright © 2022 MREL Group of Companies Limited. StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera, StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera Logo,
and MREL Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of MREL Group of Companies Limited. Windows®is a registered trademark of
Microsoft Corporation.
© Copyright 2022, MREL Group of Companies Limited. This Operations Manual supersedes any earlier editions. All Rights Reserved.
Reproduction or adaptation of any part of this documentation or Software without written permission of the Copyright owner is unlawful.
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction 1
1.1 Congratulations On Your Purchase 2
1.2 Ensuring That All StrataCam™ Mini Hardware Has Been Received 2
1.3 StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera Overview 3
1.4 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit 4
Chapter 2: Hardware Components 5
2.1 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit 6
2.1.1 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Power Cable 6
2.1.2 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor Mount 6
2.1.3 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor 6
2.1.4 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor Hood 6
2.1.5 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor Remote and Manual 7
2.1.6 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Video Capture Device 7
2.2 StrataCam™ Mini Tripod 7
2.2.1 StrataCam™ Mini Encoder 7
2.3 StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead 7
2.4 StrataCam™ Mini Optional Equipment 8
2.4.1 StrataCam™ Mini Battery and Charger (Optional) 8
2.4.2 StrataCam™ Mini 12 VDC Portable DVR Video Recorder... 8
2.4.3 StrataCam™ Mini Tripod Weight (Optional) 8
Chapter 3: Setting Up the StrataCam™ Mini 9
3.1 StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera Setup 10
3.1.1 StrataCam™ Mini Tripod Setup 10
3.2 StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead Setup 13
3.2.1 StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead Setup - Camerahead Sheath 13
3.2.2 StrataCam™ Mini Camera Setup - Connecting Camerahead 13
3.2.3 StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead Setup - Reconnecting the... 13
3.2.4 StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead Setup - Complete 13
3.3 StrataCam™ Mini Monitor 14
3.3.1 StrataCam™ Mini - Monitor Mount 14
3.4 StrataCam™ Mini Connections 15
3.4.1 StrataCam™ Mini Connections - Encoder Cable 15
3.4.2 StrataCam™ Mini Connections - Power 16
3.4.3 StrataCam™ Mini Monitor Installation - Monitor Hood 16
StrataCam™ Mini Operations Manual - Edition 1.0
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Chapter 4: StrataCam™ Mini Usage In The Field 17
4.1 StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera in the Field 18
4.1.1 Positioning Your StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera 18
4.1.2 Using The StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera 19
4.1.3 Lowering The StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera 19
4.1.4 Raising the StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera 20
4.2 Using the StrataCam™ Mini Video Capture Device 20
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting 21
5.1 Troubleshooting 22
Chapter 6: Contacting MREL for Technical Support 23
6.1 Contacting MREL 24
StrataCam™ Mini Operations Manual - Edition 1.0
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1.2 Ensuring That All StrataCam™ Mini Hardware Has Been
Received
1.1 Congratulations On Your Purchase
This section gives an overview of the StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera, a list of all the
components included and overviews of the StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead and the StrataCam™
Mini Cable Unit.
Congratulations on your purchase of a StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera system. This Operations Manual provides instructions on the
use of the camera and the hardware supplied with it.
Overview
NOTE: Images and details of these hardware components are presented in Chapter 2.
1. StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit (as shown in Section 2.1)
2. StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Power Cable (as shown in Section 2.1.1)
3. StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor Mount (as shown in Section 2.1.2)
4. StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor (as shown in Section 2.1.3)
5. StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor Hood (as shown in Section 2.1.4)
6. StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor Remote and Manual (as shown in Section 2.1.5)
7. StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Video Capture Device (as shown in Section 2.1.6)
8. StrataCam™ Mini Tripod (as shown in Section 2.2)
9. StrataCam™ Mini Encoder (as shown in Section 2.2.1)
10. StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead (as shown in Section 2.3)
11. StrataCam™ Mini Battery (Optional) (as shown in Section 2.4.1)
12. StrataCam™ Mini DVR Recorder (Optional) (as shown in Section 2.4.2)
13. StrataCam™ Mini Tripod Weight (Optional) (as shown in Section 2.4.3)
Please check that all of the above components are accounted for before proceeding further in the manual. If a component is not present,
please contract MREL Group of Companies Limited.
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1.3 StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera Overview
1. Tripod Top
2. Encoder Carabiner
3. Encoder
4. Tripod Leg - Fixed Portion
5. Tripod Leg - Extendable Portion
6. Encoder Comms Cable
7. Camera Cable
8. Camera Cable Guide
9. Cable Reel Brake
10. Cable Reel Handle
11. Cable Reel
12. On / Off Switch
13. Display Monitor
14. Camerahead Sheath
15. Camerahead
16. Borehole Drill Cuttings
17. Borehole Collar
18. Borehole
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1. Monitor
2. Monitor Display Area
3. Monitor Mounting Bracket
4. V1 / V2 Button
5. Left Arrow Button
6. Menu Button
7. Right Arrow Button
8. Power Button
9. Video Cable from Monitor
10. Video Cable from Cable Unit
11. On / Off Switch
12. RCA Video Out Plug
13. Encoder Cable Plug
14. Power Cable Plug
15. Cable Reel Assembly
16. Camerahead Cable Guide
17. Moveable Monitor Mount
18. Mounting Arm
19. Camerahead Cable
20. Collaspable Reel Handle
21. Camerahead Cable on Reel
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1.4 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit
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The StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit of the unit houses the Camera Cable and Reel Assembly.
2.1.1 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Power Cable
This cable connects to a 12 Volt DC power source to the StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit.
It provides power to the StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera.
2.1.2 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor Mount
This is to attach the Monitor to the StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit.
2.1.3 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor
This is the main display for the StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera.
2.1.4 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor Hood
This hood is affixed to the StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor with the provided
velcro fasteners and provides shade to the monitor for ease of use in direct sunlight or
bright conditions.
This Chapter describes all of the hardware components provided with the StrataCam™ Mini
Borehole Camera.
2.1 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit
Overview
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2.1.5 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor Remote and Manual
The Remote and Manual for the StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Monitor are included with the unit to describe all of the
functions of the monitor, and to allow for ease of use with the Cable Unit - Monitor Hood installed.
2.1.6 StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit - Video Capture Device
This device allows the user to record the video shown on the StrataCam™ Mini Monitor screen to a
computer with a USB port (not supplied).
2.2 StrataCam™ Mini Tripod
The StrataCam™ Mini Tripod allows the StrataCam™ Mini Camera to be positioned directly above the Borehole.
2.2.1 StrataCam™ Mini Encoder
This positions the StrataCam™ Mini Camera centrally over the Borehole as well as encoding the distance
travelled by the StrataCam™ Mini Camera, which is shown on the StrataCam™ Mini Monitor. The Encoder
connects to the eyelet on the Tripod.
2.3 StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead
The StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead connects to the end of the
cable on the Cable Reel to be lowered down the borehole. The
unit has one camera, which looks downward. The StrataCam™
Mini Camerahead can be operated from temperatures 0°C - 60°C
(32°F - 140°F).
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2.4 StrataCam™ Mini Optional Equipment
2.4.1 StrataCam™ Mini Battery and Charger (Optional)
The StrataCam™ Mini Battery is a 12-Volt DC power source for the unit to operate independently.
Included is a battery charger capable of accepting 100-240 VDC.
2.4.2 StrataCam™ Mini 12 VDC Portable DVR Video Recorder
(Optional)
This unit provides the ability to record video from the StrataCam™ Mini to a microSD card for
ultimate recording convenience without PC. The unit connects directly to the
StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera.
2.4.3 StrataCam™ Mini Tripod Weight (Optional)
The optional weight can be supplied to increase the stability of the Tripod.
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3.1.1 StrataCam™ Mini Tripod Setup
Each leg of the StrataCam™ Mini Tripod has a pin as marked in circles
in Figure 1. Push in both sides of the pin and extend each leg to their
fullest extent, making sure that the pin is released into the last holes on
the leg as marked in the circles in Figure 2.
3.1 StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera Setup
Figure 1
Overview
This Chapter describes in detail setting up the StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera for the first time. This should be
completed by the Operator before the StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera goes into the field to ensure all of the
components have been received and that the StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera is ready for use.
Figure 2
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Once the StrataCam™ Mini Tripod legs are fully extended, open up the
legs to their maximum position as shown in Figure 3, and position the
StrataCam™ Mini Tripod in an open area.
With the StrataCam™ Mini Encoder, open up the Carabiner at the top of the StrataCam™
Mini Encoder and hook it into the hanging bolt underneath the StrataCam™ Mini Tripod as
shown in Figure 4.
Figure 3
Figure 4
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Next place the StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit next to the StrataCam™ Mini
Tripod.
Remove the locking pin from the StrataCam™ Mini Encoder as shown in
Figure 5.
Locate the Connection End for the StrataCam™ Mini Camera attached to the
StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit and pass it through the StrataCam™ Mini Encoder
as shown in Figure 6. Make sure that the Connection End passes through the
StrataCam™ Mini Encoder in the direction of the Arrow highlighted in Figure
6, this will ensure that the depth readings shown on the StrataCam™ Mini
Monitor will be correct.
Once the Connection End is correctly through the StrataCam™ Mini Encoder,
reinsert the locking pin as shown in Figure 7.
Finally, add the optional weight to the top of the StrataCam™ Mini Tripod if
purchased as shown in Figure 8.
Figure 5
Figure 6
Figure 7
Figure 8
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Figure 9
3.2 StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead Setup
Unscrew and remove the StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead Sheath as highlighted in Figure 9.
3.2.1 StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead Setup - Camerahead
Sheath
Locate the Connection End of the video cable hanging from the StrataCam™ Mini Encoder
and pass it through the StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead Sheath as shown in Figure 10.
3.2.2 StrataCam™ Mini Camera Setup - Connecting
Camerahead
Before connecting the StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead to the Connection End inspect the
O-rings in both connectors to be sure they are clear of debris or any contamination.
Also check for any wear or damage. The O-rings should also be lubricated
on a regular basis. Use a NEMA-Rated O-ring lubricant.
Now connect the Connection End into the StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead,
as shown in Figure 11. The Connection End will fit only one way, and twist clockwise to
secure the StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead connection.
3.2.3 StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead Setup -
Reconnecting the Camerahead Sheath
Slide the Camerahead Sheath back down over the Connection End as shown
in Figure 12 and twist clockwise to secure it to the Camerahead.
3.2.4 StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead Setup - Complete
Your StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead should now look like
Figure 13. It is now ready to be used.
STOP
Inspect the camera before using for any cracks. If a crack is
found, do not use the StrataCam™ Mini Camerahead and contact
MREL Group of Companies Limited.
Figure 10
Figure 11
Figure 13
Figure 12
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3.3 StrataCam™ Mini Monitor
3.3.1 StrataCam™ Mini - Monitor Mount
If not already mounted on to the StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit, attached the
bottom mounting bracket as shown in Figure 14 to the handle tube on the
StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit. Tighten the bolts of the bottom mounting bracket
until tight enough to allow the bracket to move only slightly, be sure to not
over tighten the bracket as this could cause damage to the StrataCam™ Mini
Cable Unit.
Attach the mounting arm to the bottom bracket as shown in Figure 15.
Attach the top mounting bracket with the monitor mount to the mounting arm
as shown in Figure 16. Tighten and loosen the knob as highlighted in Figure
16 to alter the position of the monitor.
Figure 14
Figure 15
Figure 16
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Figure 17
Figure 18
Figure 19
Slide out the component shown in Figure 17 and place the StrataCam™ Mini
Monitor as shown in Figure 17.
With the StrataCam™ Mini Monitor now mounted on to the StrataCam™ Mini
Cable Unit, connect together the video wires from the StrataCam™ Mini Monitor
and the StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit shown in Figure 18.
3.4 StrataCam™ Mini Connections
3.4.1 StrataCam™ Mini Connections - Encoder Cable
Connect the cable from the StrataCam™ Mini Encorder now attached to the
StrataCam™ Mini Tripod to the outlet on the StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit as
shown in Figure 19.
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3.4.2 StrataCam™ Mini Connections - Power
Connect the Power Cable, whether from the StrataCam™ Mini Battery (sold
seperately) or from the provided Power Cable connected to a 12 Volt DC battery,
to the outlet on the StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit as shown in Figure 20. Unsure
that there is sufficent power to power the StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit.
Now press the On button shown in Figure 21 to turn on the StrataCam™ Mini
Cable Unit. The StrataCam™ Mini Cable Unit will start and the monitor should
show the image coming from the StrataCam™ Mini Camera.
Now turn on the StrataCam™ Mini Monitor as shown in Figure 22 to view what
the StrataCam™ Mini Camera sees.
3.4.3 StrataCam™ Mini Monitor Installation - Monitor
Hood (Optional)
When using the StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera in direct sunlight or bright
areas, use the Monitor Hood to shield the StrataCam™ Mini Monitor from light,
as shown in Figure 23. The Monitor Hood is affixed to the StrataCam™ Mini
Monitor using velcro pads that are adhered to the back of the StrataCam™ Mini
Monitor by removing their plastic backings. These pads come already attached
to the velcro on the Monitor Hood.
NOTE: Use of the Monitor Hood will inhibit the function of the buttons
on the StrataCam™ Mini Monitor. To adjust Brightness, Contrast,
Saturation, and Hue settings with the Monitor Hood installed, use
the StrataCam™ Mini Monitor Remote Control enclosed in the
Monitor packaging.
The StrataCam™ Mini Borehole Camera is now ready
to be used.
Figure 20
Figure 21
Figure 22
Figure 23
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