Reftek REF TEK 130-GPS User manual

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
Reftek Systems Inc. i
REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide
96259-00-UG
Rev H
5/20/2021
This REF TEK manual provides startup and basic operating procedures for using the 130-GPS (97150-00) with the
130 family of products. The 130-GPS is capable of providing both time and position information, serially, for host
systems in the REF TEK 130 series Data Acquisition System family.
Reftek Systems Inc.
75 MacDonald Avenue, Unit#1
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
B3B1T8
Support Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
www.reftek.com

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
ii Reftek Systems Inc.
Revision History:
Revision
Date
Reason for change
Pages
F
2021.05.20
Reftek Systems Inc. branding
All
G
2014.09.25
Updated to Trimble Template
All
2010.02.18
Added Index
Sect 4
2009.07.10
Updated Template
All
2008.06.18
Added GPS taping
All
F
2008.04.28
Added new bracket and converted to WORD
All
E
2007.09.24
Added 130-8059 and 130-GPS
All
D
2006.09.05
RT552 B Released
All
C
2004.08.01
Added Garmin™ 15H GPS Module
Added warning about mounting
All
B
2003.08.01
Created separate book for GPS-01/A
All
A
2003.07.03
Created GPS-01/1
All
0.1
2003.07.01
Initial release
All
Copyrights and Trademarks
Copyright© 2021 Reftek Systems Inc.
All rights reserved. No part of this manual may be reproduced, copied or transmitted in any form
outside the approved recipient’s organization without written permission from Reftek Systems Inc.
Printed in CANADA

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
Reftek Systems Inc. iii
Notation Conventions
The following notation conventions are used throughout REF TEK documentation:
Notation
Description
ASCII
Indicates the entry conforms to the American Standard Code for Information Interchange definition of
character (text) information.
Binary
Indicates the entry is a raw, numeric value.
Hex
Indicates hexadecimal notation. This is used with both ASCII characters (0 –9, A –F) and numeric values.
BCD
Indicates the entry is a numeric value where each four bits represents a decimal digit.
FPn
Indicates the entry is the ASCII representation of a floating-point number with n places following the
decimal point.
<n>
Indicates a single 8-bit byte. When the contents are numeric, it indicates a hexadecimal numeric value; i.e.
<84> represents hexadecimal 84 (132 decimal). When the contents are capital letters, it represents a
named ASCII control character; i.e. <SP> represents a space character, <CR> represents a carriage return
character and <LF> represents a line feed character.
MSB
Most Significant Byte of a multi-byte value.
MSbit
Most Significant Bit of a binary number.
LSB
Least Significant Byte of a multi-byte value.
LSbit
Least Significant Bit (bit 0) of a binary number.
YYYY
Year as a 4-digit number
DDD
Day of year
HH
Hour of day in 24-hour format
MM
Minutes of hour
SS
Seconds of minute
TTT
Thousandths of a second (milliseconds)
IIII
Unit ID number
n, nS
nano, nanoSecond; 10-9 = 0.000000001
u, uS
micro, microSecond; 10-6 = 0.000001
m, mS
milli, milliSecond; 10-3 = 0.001
K, KHz
Kilo, KiloHertz; 103 = 1,000
M, MHz
Mega, MegaHertz; 106 = 1,000,000
G, GHz
Giga, GigaHertz; 109 = 1,000,000,000
Kb, KB
Kilobit, KiloByte; 210 = 1,024
Mb, MB
Megabit, MegaByte; 220 = 1,048,576
Gb, GB
Gigabit, GigaByte; 230 = 1,073,741,824

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
iv Reftek Systems Inc.
REF TEK Support and update notifications
As a valued user of REF TEK equipment we would like to provide the best support possible.
If you would like to know more about any of our REF TEK products and services, please visit our
website at https://reftek.com/technical-support.
On our support page, you can find information about submitting a support ticket, downloading
sensor calibration sheets and exploring training options.
You can contact us at:
Support Email: [email protected]
Support Phone: [phone]
Thanks,
Your REF TEK Support Team
The latest version of REF TEK manuals can be found at https://manuals.reftek.com

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
Reftek Systems Inc. v
CF Card Replacement:
CAUTION: Due to the large variability of CF cards available on the world market and the
resulting problems with compatibility due to memory layout, signal structuring and power
requirements, REF TEK cannot guarantee a CF card will work in a REFTEK data recorder
unless it is sold through REFTEK itself. REFTEK ensures compatibility through
communications with CF manufacturers and rigorous in-house testing. Some CF
manufacturers refuse to provide adequate information or factory controls to ensure that the
product being sold today is the same as the product sold earlier under the same part
number. CF cards not purchased from REFTEK may work at one temperature but not at
another, or may fail all together.

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
vi Reftek Systems Inc.
Contents
1130-GPS Overview.................................................................................. 1
System Overview ........................................................................................................................................2
Operating the 130-GPS System ..................................................................................................................3
Setting up the System..........................................................................................................................3
Recommended Taping of the GPS ..............................................................................................................4
GPS Mounting Procedure ...........................................................................................................................6
Recommend 130-GPS mounting guidelines ........................................................................................6
Recommended pole mounting steps ..................................................................................................6
Permanent Mounting Procedure ........................................................................................................7
Temporary Mounting Procedure.........................................................................................................8
Ground Placement of GPS Unit ...........................................................................................................8
2Garmin™ 15H Module ............................................................................. 9
Garmin™ Module Overview........................................................................................................................9
Specifications for Garmin™ GPS ...............................................................................................................10
Time Base ..........................................................................................................................................10
130-GPS System Components ..................................................................................................................10
130-GPS Assembly.............................................................................................................................11
130-GPS Upgrade......................................................................................................................................12
RT552 GPS Interface Board.......................................................................................................................13
Primary Functions of the RT552 GPS Interface Board.......................................................................13
RT552 Board Assembly......................................................................................................................14
Electronic Operations of the RT552 ..................................................................................................15
3130-GPS –With Integrated RT/GPS-16HV5 ......................................... 17
Garmin™ Overview...................................................................................................................................17
Specifications for Integrated GPS .............................................................................................................17
Time Base ..........................................................................................................................................17
Changing the GPS mounting.....................................................................................................................18
Electronic Operations ...............................................................................................................................19
4Warranty Statement ............................................................................. 23
Warranty/Non-Warranty Service .............................................................................................................23
Static sensitive device protection.............................................................................................................24
5Index:................................................................................................... 25

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
Reftek Systems Inc. vii
This Page Left Intentionally Blank

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
Reftek Systems Inc. 1
1130-GPS Overview
This Section explains the REF TEK 130-GPS clock system when it is used with the REF TEK 130
family. The 130-GPS clock system can have either of two receiver boards:
•SiRF µ-Blox receiver module
•Garmin™ receiver module (Orange Ring)(White Ring) and 130-GPS (Integrated Hockey-Puck
design)
A user should be familiar with whatever REF TEK host system is in current use. Documents for
other REF TEK products are available on request.
The REF TEK 130 will report three states for the 130-GPS:
ASLEEP
The 130 has commanded the 130 GPS to go to the Push to fix™ mode.
SEARCH
The 130 system has awakened the 130 GPS and is waiting for it to report that it is locked.
LOCKED
The 130 GPS is locked.
Status of the GPS is shown on the LCD as:
•SLEEP - When GPS is asleep
•SRCH - When the GPS is awake but not locked
•LOCK - GPS is awake and locked
•MinSLL- Minutes since last locked

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
2 Reftek Systems Inc.
System Overview
The REF TEK 130-GPS clock which is shown below, is capable of providing both time and position
information, serially, for host systems in the REF TEK 130 Series Data Acquisition System family.
Each 130-GPS is a self-contained unit. The unit is designed around the receiver module. The
receiver board is based on either the Garmin™ unit. The antenna is mounted on the inside top
of the case and the whole unit is situated so that the antenna has clear overhead exposure. A
single interface connector is located at one end of the case. The 130-GPS can be powered by 12
VDC from the host system and supplies the time and position information serially to the host
system together with a 1 Hertz pulse.

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
Reftek Systems Inc. 3
Operating the 130-GPS System
This section provides general procedures for setting up and operating the REF TEK 130-GPS clock.
Setting up the System
Mount the GPS unit with an unobstructed view of the sky.
On the older GPS unit, notice that the direction arrow on the front of the 130-GPS case (near the
connector) needs to point up when the unit is mounted. On the newer 130-GPS (Hockey-Puck
design) the dome should always point up or be on top.
Dense wood and metal structures interfere with the satellite signals. Heavy snow cover may also
reduce the antenna signal. Refer to the “GPS Mounting Procedure”.
If the unit is located near a radar installation or satellite equipment, ensure that it is positioned
outside the cone of transmission. For best results, locate the unit below and at least ten feet
away from any satellite communication equipment.
Connect the GPS clock to the host unit, any 130 series DAS, using one of the standard REF TEK
130-8015 cables supplied with the GPS unit, these cables are available in seven different lengths
(see drawing). Connectors at both ends are the same (PTO7A12-8S).
The REF TEK 130-8015 GPS-to-DAS cable referred to above is wired as follows:
GPS Connector to
(PT07A12-8S)
130-GPS Connector
(PT07A12-8S)
Signal (w/ respect to GPS)
PIN A
PIN A
1 Hz out
PIN B
PIN B
Ground
PIN C
PIN C
GPS_RX
PIN D
PIN D
Ground
PIN E
PIN E
GPS_TX
PIN F
PIN F
+12V DC in
PIN G
PIN G
Reset in
PIN H
PIN H
+5V DC in
No additional cables are needed to operate the GPS clock and REF TEK 130. The user should
consult applicable literature for other host devices.

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
4 Reftek Systems Inc.
Recommended Taping of the GPS
We have found that the PT0 connector on the 130-GPS can provide a path for static discharge.
In our laboratory testing we have observed the 130 Data Logger reset when a high voltage
discharge to the connector is made. To eliminate this problem, we have taped the PT0 connector
set, this prevents a static discharge from occurring at all on the GPS, and with this remedy we
have not been able to reset the 130. Our recommendation is for field personal to tape the
antenna connectors so that no metal is visible.
Below is a poorly done tape job. The connector nut is exposed and one of the strain-relief screws
has punched thru the tape. Only one layer of tape is used here.

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
Reftek Systems Inc. 5
Below are examples of recommended taping when done with 2 layers.
A 2 layer complete tape job on the integrated Hockey-Puck version.
NOTE: For ground level installation move the connector to the side location before application of the tape.
Ground
placement
connector
location
130-GPS

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
6 Reftek Systems Inc.
GPS Mounting Procedure
Recommend 130-GPS mounting guidelines
The older 130-GPS can be permanently mounted using a U-bolt fastener, temporarily mounted
using tie-wraps, or place at ground level in an unobstructed field of view.
No matter which mounting type is used the following guidelines should be implemented for
best possible satellite signal:
1. The 130-GPS should be placed in the upright position.
The new 130-GPS (Hockey-Puck design) should be mounted with the dome pointing up.
On older 130-GPS units this is indicated by the arrows on the front and back of the unit).
Mount the GPS unit with the arrows facing up with an unobstructed overhead view.
2. Dense wood and metal structures interfere with the satellite signals. Heavy snow cover may
also reduce the antenna signal.
3. A minimum of 15-degree line of sight from the horizon should be kept at all times.
4. If the GPS unit is located near a radar installation or satellite equipment, ensure that it is
positioned outside the cone of transmission. For best results, locate the unit below and at
least ten feet away from any satellite communication equipment.
Recommended pole mounting steps
If the GPS unit is mounted on a pole suggested steps should be taken to insure best possible
signal.
1. The pole should not be made from metal because the metal may interfere with the signal.
2. If a metal pole cannot be avoided then two pole-to-pole adaptor brackets should be mounted
a minimum of 12” below the top. Then a PVC 1½ ” (2” Nominal O.D.) schedule 40 plastic pipe
can be mounted to the other end of bracket.
3. The 130-GPS should be mounted below the top of the pole.
WARNING:. DO NOT MOUNT the GPS at the top of a pole or antenna.
X

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
Reftek Systems Inc. 7
Permanent Mounting Procedure
The 130-GPS may be permanently mounted on a (2” nominal O.D.) plastic pole with a U-bolt.
Failure to use a nonmetallic pole may or may not result in a weak satellite signal.
In order to mount the GPS unit properly the following instruction need to be used:
1. Reassemble the U-bolt by mating U-bolt with the plate and then fasten nuts loosely with U-
bolt and plate. Be sure the U-bolt and plate assembly are able to wrap around top of antenna
pole.
2. With the U-bolt at the proper height secure the bolts tightly but do not over-tighten bolts to
the point of bending the plate or deforming the plastic antenna pole.
3. Next insert 130-GPS onto the u-bolt and tighten bolts.

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
8 Reftek Systems Inc.
Temporary Mounting Procedure
The 130-GPS may be mounted temporary using a tie-wrap. As with all mounting procedures, it
is highly recommended that antenna pole be nonmetallic. A 130-GPS should not be mounted
with the tie-wrap for longer than a 6-month period because the plastic will break down and
become brittle.
1. Loop tie-wrap through large mounting holes by threading the tie-wrap through the back, then
over the top of the doom, and through the other mounting hole.
2. Locate the 130-GPS at the top of PVC antenna pole and cinch the tie until tight. To secure the
tie-wrap tightly, pliers may be used.
3. Cut remaining tie-wrap off but leave enough slack in case the tie wrap needs to be tightened.
Ground Placement of GPS Unit
The 130-GPS can be placed on the ground if there is an unobstructed view of the sky. When
placing the older 130-GPS unit on the ground make sure that the orientation arrow is pointing
upward. Also follow all additional guidelines.
To place the new 130-GPS (integrated Hockey-Puck design) move the bracket to the ground
position before taping the 130-GPS.
Non-Metal
Ground
Position
130-GPS

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
Reftek Systems Inc. 9
2Garmin™ 15H Module
This Section explains the REF TEK 130-GPS which contains a Garmin™ 15H/L GPS module. For
the RT 552 GPS time board technical reference see the section for the RT552 GPS Interface
Board. A user should be familiar with whatever REF TEK host system is in current use.
Documents for other REF TEK products are available on request.
Garmin™ Module Overview
The new REF TEK 130-GPS clock, is capable of providing both time and position information,
serially, for host systems in the REF TEK 130 Series Data Acquisition System family.
Each 130-GPS is a self-contained unit. The unit is designed around the Garmin™ receiver module.
The GPS-15H receiver board is based on the Garmin™ chipset. The antenna is mounted on the
inside top of the case and the whole unit is situated so that the antenna has clear overhead
exposure. A single interface connector is located at one end of the case. The 130-GPS can be
powered by 12 VDC from the host system and supplies the time and position information serially
to the host system together with a 1 Hertz pulse.

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
10 Reftek Systems Inc.
Specifications for Garmin™ GPS
Category
Description
Dimensions:
4 x 4 x 3.125 inches (inc. bracket)
Weight:
1.24 pounds.
Power:
< 1 Watt (12 VDC); < 0.4 W est. average using duty cycling.
Power in:
12 VDC
Temperature:
-10° to +65° C
Time connection:
PT07A12-8S 1Hz, Gnd, Serial Receive from host, Serial Transmit to host, 12V, 5V, and reset
1Hz Output:
Leading edge of 20 mS wide, positive going (0-5v) pulse.
Accuracy of +/- 100 nsec.
Time Base
Characteristic
Description
Type
GPS Receiver/Clock plus a disciplined oscillator
Accuracy with GPS
± 100 µsec after validated 3-D fix and locked
Free-Running Accuracy
0.1 ppm over the temperature range of 0°C to 40°C and
0.2 ppm from - 20° to 0° C
130-GPS System Components
The unit receives power (+12VDC) and commands from the host (usually a 130) via the interface
connector and returns a time signal to the host. The unit contains the following printed circuit
boards:
oThe RT552 GPS time board. This board is designed and built by REF TEK, it provides the interface
between the host system and the Garmin™ GPS module. The RT552 is the motherboard onto
which the small Garmin™ GPS receiver module is set.
oThe Garmin™ GPS module (model GPS-15H). The 130-GPS is run off +12 VDC. The 130-GPS
input voltage should be between +10 and +15 Volts.
The 130-GPS interface cable is available in several lengths to suit a user’s choice of equipment
location. The cable length required should be specified when the unit is ordered.
RT552
Antenna
130-8010 Cable
Garmin™ Module
Interface Board

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
Reftek Systems Inc. 11
130-GPS Assembly

Rev H REF TEK 130-GPS Users Guide 5/20/2021
96259-00-UG
12 Reftek Systems Inc.
130-GPS Upgrade