Veris iScan EC-OM User manual

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
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iScan EC-OM
Table of Contents
Section 1
1-2 Warranty
1-3 Safety
Section 2
2-1 V-Sense Controller and Electronics Overview
2-3 SoilViewer Software Installation
Section 3
3-1 iScan Overview
3-2 iScan Installation on Implement
Section 4
4-1 SoilViewer and V-Sense Controller Set-up
4-3 SoilViewer Messages
4-4 Optical System Check
Section 5
5-1 Field Operations
5-3 Collecting Quality Data
Section 6 Maintenance and Service Procedures
6-1 #1. OM signal testing
6-2 #2. EC signal testing
6-3 #3. Testing electrical continuity
6-5 #4. Diagnosing and correcting EC signal problems
6-8 #5. Spring plunger testing and replacement
6-10 #6. Diagnosing GPS-related problems
6-11 #7. iScan lubrication
6-12 #8. Bearing replacement
6-13 #9. Optical Wear plate replacement
6-14 #10. SoilViewer Troubleshooting
6-15 #11 Establishing Bluetooth connection to V.Sense Controller
Operating Instructions

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
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iScan EC-OM
SoilViewer Version 2.87 or Above
Section 1
Warranty
Veris Technologies warrants this product to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a period of
one (1) year from the date of delivery to the purchaser. Veris Technologies will repair or replace any product
returned to Salina, Kansas, which appears upon inspection to be defective in materials or workmanship.
Veris Technologies shall have no obligation under this warranty for the cost of labor, down-time,
transportation charges, or for the repair or replacement of any product that has been misused, carelessly
handled, modified, or altered.
ALL OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, WHETHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT
NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WAR RANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR OF FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND ALL CLAIMS FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, ARE SPECIFICALLY
DISCLAIMED AND EXCLUDED.
Safety

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
1-3
Important! Read the following SAFETY PROCEDURES before operating the Veris system:
• Read and understand all instructions on safety decals
• Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin causing serious injury. Avoid the hazard by
relieving pressure before disconnecting hydraulic lines. Use a piece of paper or card-board, NOT BODY
PARTS, to check for suspected leaks.
• Wear protective gloves and safety glasses or goggles when working with hydraulic and high-pressure
wash systems.
• If an accident occurs, see a doctor immediately. Any fluid injected into the skin must be surgically removed
within a few hours or gangrene may result.
• Pinch point hazard: to prevent injury, stand clear when raising or lowering any part of the implement.
• Install all transport locks before transporting or working underneath.
• Detach and store implements in an area where children normally do not play. Secure implement by using
blocks and supports.
• Read Operations Manual before operating machine
• Review safety instructions with operators before operating machine and at least annually
• Riders obstruct the operator’s view. They could be struck by foreign objects or thrown from the machine.
• Never allow children to operate equipment.
• To prevent possible electrical shock, or damage to the instrument, do not connect to any power source
greater than twelve (12) volts DC.
• Do not grease or oil implement while it is in operation.
• Disk edges are sharp. Be careful when working in this area.
• Disconnect battery ground cable (-) before servicing or adjusting electrical systems or before welding on
implement.

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
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Section 2
V-Sense Controller and Electronics Overview
The iScan electronics kit includes the items shown below
Keep all diagnostics and operations manual with system when mapping.
EC test box
SoilViewer
Software
OM Reference
Block
USB Serial Adapter
(not incl on
implement-mounted
iScans)
EC Test Load
OM Test Load
Figure 1
Note: V-SENSE controllers manufactured after
9/01/2016 contain an internal Garmin 15x GPS. No
external GPS is provided on these units, however
external GPS receivers can be used. The controller will
automatically give preference to any external GPS
source connected to the GPS input. If no external
connection is recognized, the controller will
automatically source the internal GPS for signal.
The use of an external GPS requires the correct
settings. The GPS needs to output only two NEMA
strings (GGA and VTG OR RMC). The system will not
run with more than two strings. The strings need to
output at 4800 baud and 1Hz refresh rate.
Figure 2

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2-2
V-Sense Controller and cables will be attached to iScan module AFTER iScan module is attached to
toolbar. After the V-Sense Controller is mounted on the iScan it can remain on the implement due to
weatherproofing, unless opened by operator and lid seal is damaged. If the implement is stored outside for
long-term storage, remove Controller and store it indoors.
Figure 3 iScan EC-OM Figure 4 V-Sense Controller
Figure 5 V-Sense Controller (rear)
Figure 6 V-Sense Controller (front)
On/Off
Turns power to
V-Sense
Controller
On/Off
3A Fuse
OM Comm
Serial communication to PC,
and external GPS input
12V Power
Power cord shipped with the unit that connects to
the available 12V system or optional battery pack
Power Indicator
Indicates when power to
the controller is on
Optic Power
Delivers power to
Optical sensor with
supplied cable
EC Signal
Bluetooth
Antenna
Depth Sensor
U3 pH Comm port (not
used on EC-OM units)

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Software Installation
Note: For computers outside the United States of America, please make the following change to the
computer’s regional settings before installing the Veris SoilViewer Software.
Step 1: Open control panel and double click on Region
Step 2: Click on Additional Settings, the following screen will appear. The Decimal symbol needs to be a
“.” while the Digit grouping symbol needs to be a “,”. The will ensure proper operation of the software.
Once the changes have been made click OK and proceed with installation.
Figure 7
Figure 8
Open Veris flash drive and double click
on setup.exe to start the installation.
Click Next to continue through
installation

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Figure 9
Figures 10
Figure 11
Next two license
agreements will need to be
accepted before continuing.
The installer will install
all necessary
components.
Click Next to continue through
installation

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Figure 12
Figure 13
Figure 14
Click Next to install the USB drivers.
Click Next to continue through
installation
Click Finish to complete the
installation of SoilViewer.

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
Section 3
iScan Overview and Set-up
If the unit is crated, some assembly may be required. To do so, please take precautions to ensure that the
framework is properly supported to ensure safety. Figures 1 and 2 show the key components of the unit.
Figure 1.
Figure 2.
Coulter depth
control wheel
Turbo coulter
EC electrode #1
Air bag
Lift point
Typical
planter
mounting
location
V-Sense
Controller
iScan row
unit
EC electrode #2
Optical module;
EC electrode #3
Closing/depth
control wheels;
EC electrode #4
iScan module
mounting plate
(rests on toolbar
mounting
bracket—not
shown here)
Note: EC electrodes 1 and 4
inject EC current; electrodes
2 and 3 measure voltage drop
3-1

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
iScan Installation Instructions—toolbar mounting
Step 1. Determine toolbar location.
12” (30 cm) of open toolbar space is
needed with no obstructions around the
mounting location. Ideally this is near the
middle of the toolbar but can be near the
outside end if that is only location with
adequate clearance.
Figure 3
Step 2. Install mounting bracket.
Using supplied U-bolts, attach bracket
to toolbar and tighten nuts securely.
Position bracket centered between any
existing implement row units. Be careful
not to pinch any existing cables or
hoses. Reroute these as needed.
Figure 4.
Step 3. Lower iScan module
onto mounting bracket.
Attach chain or straps to lift point,
raise iScan using loader or forklift,
and carefully move module
between row units. Position iScan
mounting plate above mounting
bracket on toolbar and lower onto
mounting bracket. Bracket has
centering tabs that self-align the
two pieces together for easy bolt
installation.
Figure 5.
Lift point
Toolbar
mounting
bracket
Module
mounting
plate
Stand clear to avoid injury
3-2

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
Figures 6 and 7.
Step 4. Complete module mounting. Attach four cross bolts to secure iScan module to
toolbar mounting bracket. (Figure 6) Tighten securely. Attach V-Sense Controller to mounting
plate. (Figure 7) Multiple positions are provided to clear existing hoses and cables.
Step 5. Attach V-Sense cables and 12V power.
Attach cables to controller (refer to Electronics
overview and Setup section). Attach power cable to
12V power source. Route all cables carefully and
secure to prevent damage.
Figure 8.
Step 6. iScan removal. Reverse installation process
described above. After V-Sense Controller and four bolts
attaching iScan module mounting plate to toolbar mounting
bracket have been removed, attach strap or chain to lift point
and raise module from toolbar mounting bracket. If the
mounting bracket and mounting plate do not separate, press
down on closing wheels to shift weight of module and free it
from mounting bracket (Figure 9). Do not loosen U bolts or
remove toolbar mounting bracket until iScan module has been
completely removed. Figure 9.
Figure 8
Stand clear to avoid injury
3-3

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
Section 4
SoilViewer and V-Sense Controller Set-up
Select iScan Series.
Name the data file for sensor data. All sensor data is stored in a single file (VSENSE.RAW).
Figure 1
Figure 2
4-1

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
The SoilViewer mapping software will automatically detect the Bluetooth or Serial port the controller is
connected to, and begin communicating. If the V-Sense controller is not detected, the software will wait 45
seconds for the connection of the electronics and search again; this will repeat until the connection is
established. If the connection is not found, unplug the serial or USB cable, restart the PC, reboot the
controllers, and reconnect USB cable to the PC. If using Bluetooth, exit the software, and ensure the
controller is paired per procedure #11.
The conditions for mapping and storing EC and Optical data are as follows:
The unit must be traveling a speed greater than 1 mph
There must be a GPS signal received
The OM/EC Comm Light must be green, indicating the PC and V-Sense controller are
communicating properly
The EC value must be greater than -1.
When all these conditions are met, the Saving Data light will be green and the EC and Optical points will be
mapped.
Before mapping, perform the OM system checks to ensure proper sensor operation.
If mapping has stopped, files may be appended by selecting a previous file when prompted at the startup of
the software. Do not append to a previous day’s file or if equipment or soil conditions have changed. Start a
new file on each field.
User selectable plot
colors, click on color
to change.
Sample
button for
marking
lab sample
locations
Use single map
view to show a
larger map, and
help identify
where to take
calibration soil
samples
Various system warnings will
appear here see Warning
Messages for additional details
Figure 3
User can select
which sensor map
to view.
4-2

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
SoilViewer Warning Messages
There are warning signals programmed into the SoilViewer to warn the operator that data are not being
recorded, so that corrective action can be taken. If data aren’t being recorded, a warning beep will sound
from the computer, and the text indicator of the data that is missing information will blink. Fr example, if the
DGPS isn’t being received (or the NMEA string containing speed) the Fix indicator text will blink. If EC
values are negative, they will also blink. Additional messages may appear in the Warning Message Box as
follows:
Potential SoilViewer Warning Messages
Error EC_RPBT - Unit Raised out of ground, but EC readings are positive. Check for a moist soil buildup or
a pinched cable causing a short between EC electrodes.
Error EC_NP - Row unit is engaged in soil, but EC readings are negative. Check for continuity, and make
sure EC electrodes are penetrating soil at least 2".
Error EC_N30 - Excessive Negatives in EC data, check coulter continuity and soil contact.
Error OM_DPT - Row unit not penetrating soil enough. Depth should be 1.5" or > when mapping.
Error EC_EXMD - Excessive noise on EC readings; check continuity.
Error OM_LW - OM readings are too low. Check wearplate window for clarity.
Error_No Comm.- Check USB/serial or Bluetooth connections to V-Sense Controller. Unplug USB or re-pair
bluetooth connectivity and restart PC if communication does not reestablish.
Error No_GPS - Check GPS settings (4800 baud, 1 hz, and only VTG and GGA Strings enabled)
Figure 4
4-3

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
SoilViewer OM System Check
Select OM from the Sensor Checks drop down menu.
Figure 5
After clicking the button the following will appear:
Figure 6
Make sure the window is clean and in good condition. (see below) Place the dark side of the reference
block under the window, and click continue. Then the next message will appear.
Figure 7
Flip the reference block over to the light side and place under the window, and click continue. Then this
message will appear:
or
Figure 9
The reference values have been stored, and the system is ready for mapping.
4-4

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
Optical Wearplate
Below is a comparision of two wearplates. The left is a brand new wearplate, and the right has about 2500
acres on it. Inspect the leading edge,shown below, as the steel wears the window can chip or crack. As
this contiues to wear it will eventually need replaced.
Figure 10
Wearplates will wear differently in every type of soil, so check it often. To replace wearplate refer to
Procedure #9
4-5

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
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Section 5: Field Operations
Checking Electrical Signal Continuity and Electrode Isolation
It is recommended that you perform the Electrical Signal Continuity and Electrode Isolation test
procedure before first field use (see Service Procedure 3). While these tests were made at the
factory, there is the possibility a problem developed during shipping. Performing these tests on the
new implement allows you to get familiar with the process under ideal conditions. It is advised that
you perform this test after long periods of non-use and on a routine basis (every 40 hours of data
collection) to ensure you are obtaining reliable data. KEEP OHMMETER, TEST LOAD AND TEST
BOX WITH THE MACHINE AT ALL TIMES.
Proper Operating Depth
Begin field operation by lowering implement into soil. iScan module must be operated in level
position. For good electrical conductivity readings, all four electrodes must be in direct contact with
moist soil. A depth of 1.5-3” (3-6 cm) is recommended (Figure 1).
Figure 1
Figure 2
EC electrodes #1 and
#4 inject current into
the soil and #2 and #3
measure voltage drop.
Optical module is built into
the soil runner/EC #3
iScan module must be
operated level with soil
engaging components
contacting moist soil.
Setting Operating Depth—front turbo coulter
Unless conditions are excessively wet, the front
coulter should be set approximately ½” (1 cm)
deeper than the other soil engaging components.
To adjust the coulter depth, loosen the pivot bolt and
the cam adjusting bolt. Rotate cam to raise and
lower coulter. Check depth relative to other
components and retighten both bolts securely.
Pivot bolt
Cam bolt
Cam
adjustment

Pub# OM22-iScan EC-OM
5-2
Figure 3
Figure 4
Maintaining Depth and Soil Contact
After coulter depth is set, adjust coulter
depth control wheel to maintain that depth.
Remove pin, raise or lower wheel to desired
position, and reinsert pin (Figure 3). In field
operation the tire should have pressure on it,
providing evidence that is holding the coulter
and row unit at the desired depth.
Closing/depth control wheels have three
functions: 1) close soil slot created by other
soil engaging components, 2) serve as an
EC electrode, and 3) aid in depth control.
Adjust depth using T handle (Figure 4) so
that they are making aggressive soil contact.
This typically requires a shallow setting.
If soil slot is not closing properly, the rear
closing/depth wheels are adjustable to
increase or decrease the amount of soil
pinched into the furrow made by the optic
module (Figure 5). There are three
adjustment positions, and the unit is shipped
in the center position.
Move T handle
forward to improve
closing wheel soil
contact
Adjustment bolts
Adjust forward for more aggressive
closing action
Adjust rearward for less aggressive
closing action
Figure 5
Down pressure
To ensure depth is consistently
achieved, fill airbag with up to 75 psi
(520 kPa) with implement in raised
position—no ground pressure on
unit. DO NOT OVERFILL AIRBAG
AS DAMAGE WILL OCCUR.
Figure 6
Airbag
gauge
Airbag with
valve stem

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5-3
Collecting High Quality Soil Data--Tips
Figure 7
Data Quality Troubleshooting: EC
If there are positive EC values appearing when implement is raised (should be -1), or if the EC values are
extremely erratic, conduct Service Procedure #4. If the EC readings for the most part are acceptable but are
noisier than desired:
1. Check depth and down pressure settings covered previously in this section. Make sure all soil engaging
components are in consistent contact with moist soil.
2. Perform Signal tests
at least once a week during mapping season
every 40 hours of mapping
after extended periods of non-use
after replacing or repairing electrode components or wiring
whenever readings are questionable
Data Quality Troubleshooting: Optical
1. Inspect window for possible breakage or soil buildup
2. Check angle of implement: is system running level?
3. Verify optical module is firmly pressing into moist soil at a 1.5-3” (3-6 cm) depth.
4. Check plant residue buildup around iScan runners; remove if necessary and consider lowering front
coulter
1. Observe maps in SoilViewer as data
is being collected. High quality data
has good pass-to-pass repeatability
and soil zones have distinct, natural
shapes that follow known field soil
properties. Poor data is jumpy or
streaky, and maps don’t appear like
soil’s natural continuum.
2. Observe any warnings that appear in
the Warning Box.
3. Observe the depth sensor readings
for proper depth and for iScan
stability. If depth is inconsistent
check airbag pressure and coulter
settings.
4. Make sure EC values read -1 on
headlands or whenever implement is
raised. This code ensures data is
only logged when the iScan is
engaged in the soil. If data points
are evident when implement is
raised, some EC troubleshooting is
needed.
Various system
warnings will
appear here

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Soil and Residue Troubleshooting
Problem: iScan is plugging with crop residue
Solutions:
1. Lower coulter to improve cutting ahead of soil engaging components
2. Increase down pressure if not at the maximum recommended setting
3. Remove coulter gauge wheel if plugging is between the gauge wheel and coulter
4. As last resort, lock iScan into non-functioning position (Figure 8)
Figure 8.
Problem: iScan module is plugging with soil and/or leaving too much of a trench
Solutions:
1. Reduce down-pressure on airbag
2. Lower coulter depth wheel and closing wheels to carry iScan module at shallower depth
3. Adjust coulter depth shallower (only in very wet or soft conditions)
4. Adjust closing wheel camber to close soil slot more aggressively
Place 6” (15 cm)
block under iScan
runner and lower
implement.
With iScan module
in fully raised
position, move lock
pin to lock-up
position.