Vemco VR2C User manual

Using a cabled receiver with the
ability to deliver real time data.
www.vemco.com
9 July 2018 DOC-5073-11

Summary of Manual
This manual is intended to provide our users with the information they require to use our
VR2C receiver. VEMCO highly recommends that the user fully read the manual before using the
equipment or VUE software.
Section 1: Introduction
Getting to know the VR2C receiver
Section 2: Getting Started
Getting the VR2C ready, including powering the VR2C and initial tests
Section 3: Communication
How to communicate with the VR2C using either VUE software or ASCII commands
Section 4: Deployment
Important points to consider in a VR2C deployment plan
Section 5: Maintenance
How to maintain the equipment and prepare it for storage
Section 6: Troubleshooting
Solutions to potential issues that may arise
Section 7: Appendices
For the latest versions of user
manuals and software, visit
www.vemco.com.

Table Of Contents
1Introduction .......................................................................1
1.1 System Overview.............................................................................................................. 1
1.1.1 VR2C Modes of Operation......................................................................................... 1
1.1.1.1 Suspend Mode ................................................................................................... 1
1.1.1.2 Record Mode...................................................................................................... 1
1.2 VR2C Case....................................................................................................................... 2
1.3 Case Parts........................................................................................................................ 3
1.3.1 Status Light (LED) Flashes........................................................................................ 4
1.3.2 External Connector.................................................................................................... 5
1.3.2.1 External Power ................................................................................................... 5
2Getting Started....................................................................6
2.1 Dummy Plug and Locking Collar....................................................................................... 6
2.2 Connect VR2C to PC........................................................................................................ 7
2.2.1 Connecting a cable to the VR2C................................................................................ 7
2.2.2 Connecting to the PC................................................................................................. 8
2.2.2.1 VR2C Communications Package –RS232......................................................... 8
2.2.2.2 RS232 Screw Terminal and VR2C External Cable Pinout................................... 8
2.2.2.3 USB to RS232 Converter Installation.................................................................. 9
2.2.2.4 VR2C Communications Package –RS485....................................................... 10
2.2.2.5 RS485 Screw Terminal and VR2C External Cable Pinout................................. 10
2.2.2.6 USB to RS485 Converter Installation................................................................ 10
2.3 Communication Tasks .................................................................................................... 11
2.4 Testing............................................................................................................................ 12
2.4.1 In-Air Test................................................................................................................ 12
2.4.2 In-Water Test........................................................................................................... 12
3Communication ................................................................. 13
3.1 VUE Software Communication........................................................................................ 13
3.1.1 Installing VUE Software........................................................................................... 13
3.1.2 Establish Communication ........................................................................................ 14
3.1.2.1 Network Link (optional)..................................................................................... 15
3.1.3 Change Baud Rate.................................................................................................. 17
3.1.4 Logging Options ...................................................................................................... 18
3.1.4.1 Ancillary Logging .............................................................................................. 18
3.1.4.2 Diagnostic Logging........................................................................................... 18
3.1.5 Real Time Mode Configuration ................................................................................ 19
3.1.6 Start a Study............................................................................................................ 21
3.1.7 Offload Data ............................................................................................................ 23
3.1.8 Enter Suspend Mode............................................................................................... 24
3.1.9 Additional Device Options........................................................................................ 25
3.1.9.1 Install Firmware................................................................................................ 25
3.1.9.2 Reset Battery Usage Indicator.......................................................................... 27
3.1.9.3 RS485 Termination........................................................................................... 27

3.1.10 Set Local options..................................................................................................... 28
3.1.11 Disconnect Communication with Receiver............................................................... 28
3.2 ASCII Communication..................................................................................................... 29
3.2.1 Setting Up ASCII Communication............................................................................ 29
3.2.2 ASCII Command Set List......................................................................................... 31
3.2.3 Enabling/Disabling Receiver Serial Transceivers..................................................... 31
3.2.4 ASCII Command/Response Format......................................................................... 32
3.2.5 ASCII Command Details.......................................................................................... 32
3.2.5.1 Serial Communication Port Control................................................................... 33
3.2.5.1.1 BAUDRATE=x............................................................................................... 33
3.2.5.1.2 QUIT.............................................................................................................. 33
3.2.5.2 Basic Receiver Control/Status .......................................................................... 33
3.2.5.2.1 INFO.............................................................................................................. 33
3.2.5.2.2 STATUS........................................................................................................ 33
3.2.5.2.3 START .......................................................................................................... 34
3.2.5.2.4 STOP ............................................................................................................ 34
3.2.5.2.5 TIME=x.......................................................................................................... 34
3.2.5.2.6 ERASE ......................................................................................................... 35
3.2.5.2.7 STORAGE..................................................................................................... 35
3.2.5.2.8 RESETBATTERY.......................................................................................... 35
3.2.5.3 Real-Time Mode (RTM).................................................................................... 36
3.2.5.3.1 RTM232 ........................................................................................................ 37
3.2.5.3.2 RTM485 ........................................................................................................ 37
3.2.5.3.3 RTMNOW...................................................................................................... 37
3.2.5.3.4 RTMPROFILE=x ........................................................................................... 37
3.2.5.3.5 RTMINFO...................................................................................................... 40
3.2.5.3.6 RTMOFF ....................................................................................................... 41
3.2.5.3.7 RTMAUTOERASE=x..................................................................................... 41
3.2.5.4 Detection Log Manual Retrieval (Advanced User Feature) ............................... 41
3.2.5.4.1 READBEG..................................................................................................... 41
3.2.5.4.2 READEND..................................................................................................... 42
3.2.5.4.3 READREC..................................................................................................... 42
3.2.5.4.4 READACK..................................................................................................... 42
3.2.6 ASCII Usage Case Examples.................................................................................. 42
3.2.6.1 Example 1: Starting a Study ............................................................................. 42
3.2.6.2 Example 2: Entering Real-Time Mode .............................................................. 43
3.2.6.3 Example 3: Updating the VR2C Clock .............................................................. 43
3.2.6.4 Example 4: Erasing Data Logs.......................................................................... 44
3.2.6.5 Example 5: Placing VR2C in Suspend Mode.................................................... 44
4

Attachment Methods ............................................................... 45
4.1 Deployment Facts/Tips................................................................................................... 45
4.1.1 Mooring ................................................................................................................... 45
4.1.2 Spacing ................................................................................................................... 45
4.1.3 Biofouling................................................................................................................. 45
4.2 External Cable................................................................................................................ 46
4.3 Case External Dimensions.............................................................................................. 46
5Maintenance ..................................................................... 47
5.1 Cleaning Instructions ...................................................................................................... 47
5.2 Battery............................................................................................................................ 47
5.2.1 Battery Life .............................................................................................................. 47
5.2.2 Battery Installation/Replacement ............................................................................. 48
5.2.2.1 Opening the VR2C Case .................................................................................. 48
5.2.2.2 Disconnecting and Removing Battery............................................................... 51
5.2.2.3 Inserting or Replacing Battery........................................................................... 52
5.2.2.4 O-ring Inspection.............................................................................................. 53
5.2.2.5 Closing the VR2C Case.................................................................................... 54
5.2.2.6 Resetting the VR2C Battery Usage Indicator.................................................... 56
6Troubleshooting ................................................................ 57
6.1 Dented Threads.............................................................................................................. 57
6.2 Pressurized Case ........................................................................................................... 57
7Appendices....................................................................... 58
7.1 Contact Information ........................................................................................................ 58
7.2 VR2C Specifications....................................................................................................... 59
7.3 Warranty and Disclaimer................................................................................................. 60
7.4 Index............................................................................................................................... 61
© (2018) AMIRIX Systems Inc. All rights reserved. The information contained herein includes
information which is confidential and proprietary to AMIRIX Systems Inc. and may not be used
or disclosed without prior written consent of AMIRIX Systems Inc.
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such
marks by AMIRIX Systems Inc. is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of
their respective owners.

VEMCO - VR2C Manual 9 Jul 2018 1
1Introduction
1.1 System Overview
The VR2C joins the world of instant communication by allowing received data from
VEMCO’s coded tags to be sent in real time to third-party equipment. That equipment could
be a PC, a serial terminal, a third-party datalogger, or any ASCII compatable device. Along
with tag data, the VR2C can record and send information about the temperature and tilt of the
receiver. How the data is sent is easily customized to fit your needs, and can be setup
whenever you are in communication with the VR2C.
The VR2C retains the submersible plastic corrosion resistant high pressure case VEMCO
receivers are known for while adding a cabled RS232/RS485 external connector. This
connector, along with real-time communication, provides the option of powering the VR2C
from an external source as well as from the receiver’s internal single Lithium D cell battery.
1.1.1 VR2C Modes of Operation
The VR2C is usually in one of two operational modes –either acoustically dormant in Suspend mode or
actively listening and recording detections in Record mode.
1.1.1.1 Suspend Mode
Suspend mode is a low power state used when the VR2C is being
shipped or in storage for an extended period of time. When in
Suspend mode, the receiver will not detect or record tag
information. For details on how to place the VR2C in Suspend
mode, see section 3.1.8 if you are using VUE or section 3.2.5.2.7 if
you are using ASCII commands.
1.1.1.2 Record Mode
Record mode allows the VR2C to detect and record tag information, therefore it is the mode used during
testing and deployment. Because the VR2C is shipped and stored in Suspend mode, where it is acoustically
dormant, it must be put in Record mode before it can detect tags. Instructions for entering Record mode
using VUE are found in section 3.1.6 and the ASCII command is found in section 3.2.5.2.3.
The VR2C is shipped in
Suspend mode with the
internal battery connected.
Always put the receiver in
Record mode (begin a
study) before deployment.

VEMCO - VR2C Manual 9 Jul 2018 2
1.2 VR2C Case
The VR2C is housed in a black plastic high pressure case. The various external parts of the receiver are
identified and briefly explained in the next section (1.3).
A crucial part of the VR2C is the hydrophone, located at one
end of the receiver. The hydrophone is similar to a
microphone –it “listens” for sounds and transfers them to the
electronics inside the receiver. Be very careful not to bump
the hydrophone against hard surfaces or damage may occur
that could compromise the receiver’s ability to detect tags.
The VR2C only listens to the frequency selected at the time of ordering: the VR2C-69kHz operates at 69
kHz and the VR2C-180kHz operates at 180 kHz. The receiver frequency chosen depends on the type of
coded tags that will be used. For example, if tags operating at 69 kHz are being used then the VR2C-69kHz
must be used.
The only externally distinguishable physical differences between the VR2C-69kHz and the VR2C-180kHz
are the size of the hydrophone and the colour of the text on the serial number band. The VR2C-180kHz
hydrophone is smaller than the VR2C-69kHz hydrophone, as shown in the photos below. The case
dimensions are found in section 4.3.
The two versions of the VR2C operate in the same manner so they’ll be discussed simply as a “VR2C”in
this manual.
The VR2C can be powered externally from a DC power source and/or
internally by a single “D” size 3.6 Volt Lithium battery (see section 5.2). The
VR2C is shipped in Suspend mode, with the internal battery connected, so the
case does not need to be opened until the battery must be replaced.
Do not bump the
hydrophone or the receiver
may be damaged and unable
to detect transmitters.
VR2C-69kHz
VR2C-180kHz
Visible External Differences:
1. Hydrophones are different sizes
2.
Serial Number label is a different colour.
Blue = 69 kHz
Green = 180 kHz
Case does not need to
be opened until battery
must be replaced.
WARNING
The VR2C pressure case and seal have a static depth rating of 500 meters
(730 psi).
Physical shocks to the receiver, such as bumping into a solid object, at any depth can result in a
considerably higher pressure on the casing than just the depth pressure, and water may enter the VR2C
case. As well, if the O-ring seals have been compromised, water may also enter the receiver case. If you
are suspicious that water has entered the receiver, then follow the suggestions found in section 6.2.

VEMCO - VR2C Manual 9 Jul 2018 3
1.3 Case Parts
Do not open Threaded
Endcap unless you are
replacing the battery.
Cable Tie Groove: This is the second of the two grooves used for attachment.
Hydrophone: The
receiver’s “microphone”
and most delicate part.
Receiver Locking Ring: Allows access to
the internal battery and should only be
opened when replacing the internal battery
(see section 5.2.2).
Cable Tie Groove: These grooves (there are two) are used to attach the VR2C
to a line.
Identification Label: Contains product name and model number, contact
information, serial number, and important warnings.
At a glance, the blue text indicates receiver is a VR2C-69kHz and green text
indicates it’s a VR2C-180kHz.
Cable Connector: A locking collar holds
the cable’s 8-pin connector to the VR2C
external connector (shown at right). More
information about the external connector is
found in section 1.3.2. More information
about the external cable is found in
section 4.2.
Status Light (LED)/Release Valve: The light flashes red to indicate the
receiver’s status. Section 1.3.1 has the full description.
The Release Valve will open if the internal pressure is greater than the external
pressure (see section 6.2). Never cover this valve.
Do not bump the hydrophone or
the receiver may be damaged and
unable to detect transmitters.
Under no circumstance should you unscrew the upper housing
as this will cause serious internal damage to the VR2C.

VEMCO - VR2C Manual 9 Jul 2018 4
1.3.1 Status Light (LED) Flashes
The red Status Light on the side of the VR2C case flashes based on the task being performed or the status of
the receiver. The flashes can be interpreted using the table below. The Status Light is an LED (Light
Emitting Diode) and has been referred to as such in past documentation.
VR2C LED Flashes
Interpretation of Flashes
No flash
Not powered or in Suspend Mode
Two quick flashes every 5 seconds
VR2C is in record mode (records any received pings)
Two quick flashes every 10 seconds
The VR2C memory is full
One short flash
An acoustic ping was received
One long flash
A complete detection was written to memory
When the VR2C is first powered, it will flash four times to
indicate that it has successfully completed the start-up process.
After the four flashes, the Status Light will begin flashing based
on its status. The most common flash pattern is two quick flashes
every 5 seconds to indicate the receiver is recording. If the
receiver’s Status Light flashes anything other than what is
explained in this section, then contact VEMCO’s Customer
Support team for assistance.

VEMCO - VR2C Manual 9 Jul 2018 5
1.3.2 External Connector
The VR2C uses a submersible connector (SubConn PN: MCBH8M) to allow for a
cabled interface to a customer PC, a third-party data logger, a modem, or other
supported host device.
The VR2C external connector supports both RS232 and RS485. By using an RS232 or
RS485 cable, communication with the VR2C can occur through either serial interface,
although not both at the same time. Specifications for the cable are found in section
4.2. RS232 communication can only be used for cables that are less than 15.2 m
(50 feet).
The VR2C connector pin-out, as shown from the external view, is listed below.
VR2C external connector pin-out
Pin #
Function
1
External DC POWER -
2
RS485 D+
3
External DC POWER +
4
RS485 D-
5
RS232 TX (from host to VR2C)
6
RS232 RX (from VR2C to host)
7
CGND
8
No Connect
1.3.2.1 External Power
The VR2C external connector allows for the receiver to be powered from an external power source. The
external power specifications are:
External DC Voltage: +10 volts to +32 volts
Typical Power Consumption (@12V): 2 –15 mA (Record Mode)
Face-on View
(looking into pins)
Never deploy the VR2C with the connector
exposed. It must be connected to a cable or
the Subconn dummy plug when deployed.