RDS Technology Apollo FYM Use and care manual

1
Apollo FYM
Spreader Controller
Calibration
RDS Part No.:
Document Issue:
Software Issue:
S/DC/500-10-746
1.1 : 20.2.14
PS605-001rev09

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
2
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
This product complies with Council Directive 2004/108/EEC
when installed and used in accordance with the relevant
instructions.
IMPORTANT, READ THIS BEFORE USING THE PS8000i
The PS8000i installation is a part of the Precision Farming
System ("the System"). It is very important that you follow the
described calibration procedures before operating the
PS8000i instrument. Calibration and operation of the PS8000i
must be in accordance with these instructions. Use of the
System is subject to the following disclaimer;
1. So far as is legally permissible RDS Technology ("RDS"), or its
distributors, shall not be liable, whatever the cause, for any
increased costs, loss of profits, business, contracts, income,
or anticipate savings or for any special, indirect or
inconsequential damage whatsover (death or personal injury
excluded).
2. The capabilities and functions of the Precision Farming
System ("the System") are limited as set out in the
specification of the System, details of which are contained in
the Help files and product literature and which must be read
before using the System.
3. Without prejudice to the generality of the above it is hereby
acknowledged that the System is not designed nor intended
to a) originate variable treatment plans or b) achieve or avoid
any application rate outside application parameters, which in
both cases shall be the responsibility of the operator.
4. The standard terms and conditions of RDS (except clause 7),
a copy of which is available on request, apply to the supply
and operation of this System.
Service and Technical Support
PLEASE CONTACT YOUR NEAREST RDS DISTRIBUTOR If
unknown then contact RDS Technology Ltd for further
information,
Tel : [phone]
Fax : [phone]
e-mail : [email protected]
web : www.rdstec.com
Our policy is one of continuous improvement and the
information in this document is subject to change without
notice. Check that the software reference matches that
displayed by the instrument.
© Copyright RDS Technology Ltd 2013
\UK746110.DOC

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
3
INTRODUCTION 5
The "Setup" Screen page ......................................................................................................................... 5
Calibration on installation 5
Calibration in normal use 5
Data Entry................................................................................................................................................. 5
1 USER OPTIONS 6
1.1 Set Time and Date ....................................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Adjust Screen Contrast and Brightness ..................................................................................... 6
1.3 Customise.................................................................................................................................... 6
1.3.1 Nudge Step Size 7
1.4 Select Language.......................................................................................................................... 7
1.5 Select Control Software .............................................................................................................. 7
2. TECHNICIAN CONFIG 8
2.1 Display Options ........................................................................................................................... 8
2.1.1 Speed Smoothing Factor 8
2.1.2 Rate Lock-On 8
2.1.3 Rate Smoothing 8
2.1.4 Off Target Alarm 8
2.1.5 Info Weight 8
2.2 Loadcell Correction .................................................................................................................... 9
Correction Span 9
Min Stat Weight 9
Dynamic Time 9
Dynamic Weight 9
Start Delay 9
Steady Weight 9
H’Land Delay 9
T Factor Delay 9
T Store Mode 9
Dyn Fill Weight 9
Dyn Min Weight 9
T Store Auto 9
Corr Span Fast 9
2.3 Print Calibration Data.................................................................................................................. 10
2.4 Change PIN for Technician Menu............................................................................................... 10
3. FACTORY CONFIG 11
3.1 Machine Options ......................................................................................................................... 11
3.2 Spreader Config .......................................................................................................................... 11
3.3 Pro-Series Config ........................................................................................................................ 11
Area Cut Out Input 11
3.4 Channel Setup............................................................................................................................. 11
3.4.1 Feedback 12
3.4.2 Response 12
3.4.3 Deadband 12
3.4.4 Startup Delay 12
3.5 Change PIN for Factory Configuration Menu ............................................................................. 12

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
4
4. PRODUCT SETUP 13
4.1 Product Select............................................................................................................................. 13
4.1.1 Product Name 13
4.1.2 Rate 13
4.1.3 ‘T’ Factor 13
4.1.4 Speed Range 13
4.1.5 T Store Point 13
4.1.6 Fast Empty Point 13
5. SPREADER SETUP 14
5.1 Working Width ............................................................................................................................. 14
5.1.1 Set current Working Width 14
5.2 Forward Speed Sensor................................................................................................................ 14
5.2.1 Select Sensor Option 14
5.2.2 Wheel sensor calibration – ‘Autocal’ 14
5.2.3 Wheel sensor calibration - manually calculating the Forward Speed Factor 15
5.2.4 Radar Sensor 15
5.2.5 RDS ‘Satspeed’ Interface / NMEA VTG Input 16
5.3 Pre-Start....................................................................................................................................... 16
6. ALARMS 16
6.1 Setting the Alarm thresholds ...................................................................................................... 16
6.1.1 Low / High RPM Alarm 16
6.1.2 LOW Weight Alarm 16
7. GENERAL PF SETUP 16

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
5
Introduction
The instrument must be calibrated before commencing normal operation. Many settings are made only on
initial installation e.g. from the 'FACTORY CONFIG' screen. Other calibration settings may need to be altered
on a regular basis according to the product being spread, spread width etc.
The "Setup" Screen page
Press the key to select the SETUP menu (fig. 1a).
Figure 1a
Calibration on installation
Work through the 'SPREADER SETUP and PRODUCT SETUP' menu first. Most of these settings need be done
only once on installation.
Calibration in normal use
Calibration settings that need to be accessed more frequently are highlighted in bold type on figure 1. These
settings include;
Product type
Spread width
Data Entry
Alpha-numeric values are entered via the right-hand keypad. You must press the key from 2 to 5 times to
select the required letter. (Some keys have additional special characters not shown on the key legend).
The key will either toggle between lower and upper case characters or when preceeding a numerical
entry, will set a MINUS value.
The key will toggle between 0 and a SPACE.
The key will BACKSPACE the screen cursor if you need to re-enter a character.
The key is the RETURN key and is normally pressed to confirm the data entry into memory.
UK57108.PCX
Time/Date
Contrast/Brightness
Units
Language
Instrument Select
Product
Setup
Menu
Display options
Control options
Boom/Cutout Inputs
Print Cal Data
Pin # Change
Machine Options
Spreader Config
Pro-Series Config
Channels
Loadcell Interfaces
Logging Interval
Tag Names
Function Name/Value
GPS Baudrate
Ports Setup
Spreader Setup
DYN or STAT calibration
Alarm Configuration
Simulated Speed Value

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
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1 User Options
Configure basic instrument options.
1.1 Set Time and Date
If you need to change the time or date setting, position the cursor against the relevant line, key-in the new
value and press .
1.2 Adjust Screen Contrast and Brightness
Figure 19
The screen may go darker at very high or very low temperatures. For example, on a very cold morning it may
take a short period of time for the display to gain normal contrast as the instrument warms up. This is a normal
characteristic of this type of display and does not mean the display is faulty.
If by accident the contrast setting is adjusted so that the screen graphics can no longer be viewed (i.e.
completely light or dark), don't panic! - you can navigate directly to the "DISPLAY" screen by pressing and
holding the key for at least 10 seconds. The instrument will bleep at 2-second intervals as long as the key
is depressed. You can then adjust the display using the arrow keys.
1.3 Customise
Information can be displayed in Metric or Imperial units by selecting the desired option via the SETUP menu.
Function
Units
Metric
UK Imperial
Forward Speed
km/hr
miles/h
Application rate
lg/ha
tonnes/ha
lbs/acre
tons/acre
Part/Total Area
hectares
acres
Tank volume/ Part/Total
volume applied
Tones
lbs
1. Time/Date
4. User Options
2. Contrast
Brightness
UK572-16.PCX
3. Customise
4. User Options
4. User Options
UK572-16.PCX

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
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1.3.1 Nudge Step Size
The Nudge Step Size sets the % increase / decrease made when you adjust from the target rate in AUTO
mode. Adjustable from 0 to 50%.
Default = 5%
1.4 Select Language
Select the language using the up / down arrow keys and press .
1.5 Select Control Software
There are two lines displayed. If the head unit does not have a secondary software module fitted, both lines
will be the same and switching between them has no effect.
If a software module is fitted, then simply select between the two software options displayed and press
The instrument will take several seconds to load the control software and then automatically re-start.
4. User Options
4. Language
4. User Options
6. Instrument Select

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
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2. Technician Config
The operator is unlikely to need access in normal use. Access to this menu can be restricted by changing the
PIN number from within the menu.
Enter the factory default PIN number 1234 to access the menu.
2.1 Display Options
2.1.1 Speed Smoothing Factor
The Forward Speed display is electronically damped. If the readouts are constantly changing by small
increments, you can increase the damping time to give a steadier readout.
Adjustable from 0 to 19 seconds. Default = 2 seconds
2.1.2 Rate Lock-On
"RATE LOCK-ON" sets the % by which the application rate fluctuates either side of a nominal application rate
before the instrument display changes.
For example, if the actual application rate fluctuates in normal operation from 9.7 to 10.3 tonnes/ha for a target
application rate of 10 tonnes/ha, you may decide that it is acceptable for the instrument to display a steady
readout of 10 tonnes/ha between those limits i.e. ±3%. In this case the rate lock-on figure should be set to 3.0.
Adjustable from 0 to 50% Default = 2%
2.1.3 Rate Smoothing
The Application rate display is electronically damped. If the readouts are constantly changing by small
increments, you can increase the damping time to give a steadier readout.
Adjustable from 0 to 19 seconds. Default = 2 seconds
2.1.4 Off Target Alarm
This sets the threshold at which the instrument will alarm "UNDER APPLICATION" or "OVER APPLICATION"
when Spreading in automatic control mode. It is set as a percentage either side of the current target rate.
Adjustable from 0 to 50%.
Default = 20%
2.1.5 Info Weight
Default = "LOAD CELL" - This means that the weight that is displayed on the INFO page as the job totals will
be taken from the load cell readings (as if using a weigh bridge) instead of the theoretical weight reading
based on the number of floor revolutions x calibration factor (THEORY)
2. Technician Config.
1. Display Options
UK572-12.PCX

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
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2.2 Loadcell Correction
Figure 22 "Boom/Cutouts Inputs" page
Correction Span
This is the amount that the T factor can be allowed to change by after each dynamic calibration test. If this
figure is too large, floor speed correction may vary significantly, affecting the spread pattern and possibly
overloading the driveline.
Min Stat Weight
This is the amount of product that must be spread during a static test.
Dynamic Time
This is how often a DYNAMIC correction is made to the calibration.
Dynamic Weight
This is the amount of product that must be spread during each DYNAMIC correction.
Start Delay
This is the pause time at the start of each new load to allow for the product to reach the beaters before the
system starts to make any corrections. This time should be longer than the pre-start time if that function is
being used.
Steady Weight
This is the % change that is allowed each second before the system will be deemed to have an unstable
weight reading.
H’Land Delay
This is the pause time at start of each new headland turn (if the hopper has not been filled) before the system
will resume DYNAMIC corrections. This is to give the floor time to get to speed.
T Factor Delay
This is the pause time after each new DYNAMIC correction has been made before the new correction starts,
this allows the floor time to react to the new factor before starting to calculate the next correction.
T Store Mode
This defines whether MANUAL or AUTO T factor reset is being used. When the hopper has been refilled then
the T factor (ref. section 4.1.3) gets automatically reset to a higher figure to allow the floor to move at a normal
speed. In AUTO this is automatically calculated from a point in the last load.
Dyn Fill Weight
This is the amount that the hopper weight must increase by to know that it has been filled up again.
Dyn Min Weight
This is the amount at which DYNAMIC corrections will stop, eg, once you are under 1t of weight in the hopper.
T Store Auto
This is the weight at which the system will store its T Factor (ref. section 4.1.3). The system will remember its T
factor when it was at this weight and reset to this once the hopper has been filled.
Corr Span Fast
This is the amount that the T factor can be allowed to change by after each dynamic calibration test when the
weight is below the ‘Fast Empty Point’ as set in the Product Menu.
2. Technician Config.
2. Loadcell Correction
UK572-14.PCX

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
10
2.3 Print Calibration Data
It is always a good idea to keep a record of calibration data either in the back of the manual, or as a printout.
Connect the printer to the upper serial port. Ensure first that the port has been configured for a printer (section
4.5.1).
Selecting the "PRINT CAL DATA" menu function immediately sends the data to the serial port. The message
"Printing Data" is displayed while data transfer is occurring.
If the bar on the screen stops filling up part way, the instrument cannot communicate with the printer. Check
the connections.
2.4 Change PIN for Technician Menu
You can re-programme your own PIN for this menu. Just follow the screen instructions.
If you forget your personalised PIN, you will need to contact RDS for instructions.
2. Technician Config.
4. Print Cal data
2. Technician Config.
5. PIN # Change

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
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3. Factory Config
3.1 Machine Options
3.2 Spreader Config
Shaft 1 and Shaft 2 are related to the spinner/beater sensors. The following calibration procedure applies
regardless of the speed output being sensed e.g. Engine RPM, PTO Speed, Shaft Speed, Fan Speed etc,
depending on the particular installation.
In all cases, run the sensed component at a known speed. If necessary measure this speed using a hand-held
tachometer. Note the speed displayed on the "INFO" screen.
The correct Cal. factor = Initial Factor x Displayed Speed
Actual Speed
Default: 1 pulse per rev (PPR)
3.3 Pro-Series Config
This inverts the area cut out status input
Area Cut Out Input
In Work: The Spreader is ON when the cutout input is recognised.
Out Of Work: The Spreader is ON when the cutout input is NOT recognised.
3.4 Channel Setup
3. Factory Config.
1. Machine Options
UK57223.PCX
3. Factory Config.
2. Spreader Config
UK57223.PCX
3. Factory Config.
4. Channel Setup
UK57223.PCX

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
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3.4.1 Feedback
The factor (pulses per revolution) is depending upon the number of pulses for 1 revolution of the rear floor
roller.
3.4.2 Response
The Response function sets the frequency at which the system adjusts the control valve when reacting to a
change in forward speed.
Determining the correct setting is a method of trial and error as follows,
1. With the Spreader stationary, from the SETUP page, press and ENTER to begin a simulated speed.
2. Run the Spreader in manual (‘MAN’) control mode and adjust the pressure down to a minimum.
3. Switch to automatic (‘AUTO’) mode and observe the response.
If the application rate quickly rises and settles at the target rate then the response setting is correct.
A lower setting results in a slower response, and increases the time taken for the application rate to match the
target rate. A higher setting results in a faster response. If the application rate is unstable and varies about the
target rate, then the response setting may be too high.
Default: 100 Range: 0 - 9999
3.4.3 Deadband
The Deadband function sets the range over which the flow rate will vary about the target rate before the control
valve will respond. A lower value will make the control respond to a smaller variation in spread rate and vice
versa. If the value is too low the system may be unstable about the target rate.
Default: 2.0 Range: 0 - 99.9
3.4.4 Startup Delay
As the spreader starts up, it can take a number of seconds for all pressure pulses to balance out.
Consequently the system takes some time to stabilise at the target rate. The instrument must be stopped from
reacting to the initial flow surge.
Set the delay time to equal the time it takes for the Spreader system to reach normal working speed. When the
spreader section is switched on, the control valve will not operate for this time period.
Default: 2.0 seconds Range: 0 - 99.5 seconds
3.5 Change PIN for Factory Configuration Menu
You can re-programme your own PIN for this menu. Just follow the screen instructions. If you forget your
personalised PIN, you will need to contact RDS for instructions.
3. Factory Config.
7. PIN # Change

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
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4. Product Setup
This menu enables access to configuring the system for different products, entering the product names and
selecting the product to spread with.
4.1 Product Select
Figure 23
4.1.1 Product Name
From the 'PRODUCT SELECTION' screen, press the key while on the product name to select the
'PRODUCT NAMES' screen (fig. 14b).
Select the product name using the arrow keys, and edit the name using the alpha-numeric keypad. Pressing
the * key will switch between upper and lower case characters.
4.1.2 Rate
This is the target application rate that is programmed on the MAIN screen.
Default: 20 Range: 0 - 9999
4.1.3 ‘T’ Factor
The T factor is the calibration factor that is altered while the spreader is dispensing product. It stands for the
amount of product that is dispensed for one revolution of the rear floor roller.
Default: 1.000 Range: 0 - 99.9
4.1.4 Speed Range
This is the minimum and maximum forward speed that can be achieved by the spreader based on the current
calibration factors.
4.1.5 T Store Point
Information on this can be found in the Operators Manual under section 2.1.4
4.1.6 Fast Empty Point
Information on this can be found in the Operators Manual under section 2.1.5
3. Product Select
Main Page Option
UK57223.PCX

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
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5. Spreader Setup
5.1 Working Width
5.1.1 Set current Working Width
Using the numeric keypad, type in the current working width and
use the ENTER button to confirm,
5.2 Forward Speed Sensor
5.2.1 Select Sensor Option
2. Move the arrow cursor to select the option and press to confirm.
5.2.2 Wheel sensor calibration – ‘Autocal’
If the Spreader has a standard wheel sensor and magnets installed, you can programme the instrument with
two speed sensor factors - for flotation tyres and for row crop wheels. Remember to select the appropriate
factor after changing wheels.
The Speed Sensor Factor ("SSF") is the distance travelled forward in the time between two pulses from the
forward speed sensor. This could be calculated based on the nominal tyre diameter or rolling distance and
then entered manually (ref. section 1.1.3), however this does not take into account wheel slip, compaction, or
tyre deformation under practical operating conditions.
The best method is to do an "Auto Cal".
Mark a set distance of 100 metres (or 100 yards depending on the units set on the instrument) by suitable
means. The surface should be representative of the average field conditions (i.e. not a paved surface).
Position the vehicle with the first marker level with a suitable reference point on the vehicle.
Wheel Sensor - for flotation tyres
Wheel Sensor - for (larger) row crop wheels
Radar Sensor / RDS ‘Satspeed’ Interface
UK57201.PCX
DGPS input (this option only appears when top port is
configured for GPS input)
1. Spreader Setup
1. Working Width
UK572-02.PCX
1. Spreader Setup
2. Speed Sensor Factor

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
15
With the appropriate sensor option highlighted on the "SPEED FACTOR" page, press ENTER, then select
"Auto Cal'. Press and then follow the screen instructions.
Stop the vehicle when the second marker lines up with the pre-determined reference point on the vehicle and
press to end the "Auto Cal" procedure. The Speed Sensor Factor is automatically re-calculated and
stored in memory.
NOTE: If you overrun the marker, do not simply reverse - repeat the "Auto Cal" procedure from the beginning.
5.2.3 Wheel sensor calibration - manually calculating the Forward Speed Factor
The smaller the speed sensor factor the better the speed update will be. Aim for a factor less than 2.000 m
(78.78").
NOTE: Perform the following calculations in inches or metres depending on whether the instrument is set for Imperial
or Metric units. If you calculate the factor using any other unit of measurement e.g. feet or centimetres, the
forward speed display will be incorrect.
(i) If a single magnet is installed (as with a standard RDS Propshaft Sensor kit), the distance travelled for
each turn of the prop shaft must be determined. To determine this distance, drive the vehicle forwards for
exactly 10 revolutions of the prop shaft. Measure this distance (in inches or metres) and divide by 10, to find
the Speed Sensor Factor.
(ii) If 2 magnets are installed (as with a standard RDS Wheel Sensor kit), the distance is 1/2 the effective rolling
circumference of the wheel. To determine this circumference, drive the vehicle forward in field conditions (with
the implement attached if applicable), for exactly 10 revolutions of the sensed wheel. Measure this distance (in
inches or metres) and divide by 20 to find the Speed Sensor Factor.
(iii) If 4 wheel magnets are installed, the distance is 1/4 the effective rolling circumference of the wheel. To
determine this circumference, drive the vehicle forward in field conditions (with the implement attached if
applicable), for exactly 10 revolutions of the sensed wheel. Measure this distance (metres) and divide by 40 to
find the Speed Sensor Factor.
Carry out this test whenever soil conditions or wheel sizes change.
If the calibration factor works out at over 2.000 m (78.78 inches), consider fitting additional magnets. Extra
magnets are recommended if the vehicle has large diameter wheels or is slow-moving. In extreme
circumstances you can find that the speed keeps going to zero as it times out before the next pulse arrives.
Number of magnets required
The table gives the number of magnets required to enable a speed update of approximately 1 Hz or greater on
the display.
Tyre diameter
Typical speed in normal operation:
up to 5mph
(8km/hr)
6 to 9 mph
(9 to 15 km/hr)
10mph (16 km/hr)
or over
12" (0.3m)
1
1
1
24" (0.6m)
1
1
1
36" (0.9m)
2
2
1
48" (1.2m)
4
2
2
60" (1.5m)
4
4
2
72" (1.8m)
4
4
2
Example Calculation
A vehicle is fitted with a single magnet mounted on the propshaft. The measured distance for 10 rotations of
the sensed wheel is 47'-6".
1. Convert the distance to inches :- (47' x 12")+6" = 570"
2. Divide by 10 (magnet pulses) to give the calibration factor:- 570" / 10 = 57.0"
3. Programme the factor '057.0' as described overleaf.
5.2.4 Radar Sensor
If an RDS Radar sensor is installed at the correct angle of 37±1°, the Speed Sensor Factor is 0.0078 m (or
0.312 inches). It is still recommended to do an ‘Autocal’ since the sensor may not be mounted exactly at 37°.

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
16
5.2.5 RDS ‘Satspeed’ Interface / NMEA VTG Input
No calibration is necessary.
5.3 Pre-Start
See Pre-Start Setup guide in the Operators Manual, section 2.4.
6. Alarms
6.1 Setting the Alarm thresholds
1. Press to select the "SETUP" menu.
2. Select the "ALARMS SETUP" button at the base of the screen.
6.1.1 Low / High RPM Alarm
From the RPM SETUP screen, you can also set a minimum and maximum RPM at which an alarm is triggered.
Set as necessary.
Default = 0 (Alarms Off)
6.1.2 LOW Weight Alarm
This can be used as a reminder that the hopper is nearly empty.
Default = 0 (Alarms Off)
7. General PF Setup
Please refer to the "Data Logging and Transfer" manual (ref. RDS Pt. No. S/DC/500-10-573).
1. Main Menu
Alarms Setup
UK571-10.PCX
Figure 10

APOLLO FYM - SPREADER CONTROLLER
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Issue 1: 12/12/13 Original Issue
Issue 1.1 20.2.14 Ref. CRQ5468