VideoRay PRO 3 User manual

November, 2007 http://www.videoray.com Version 1.0, Rev. D
REMOTELY OPERATED
PROFESSIONAL SUBMERSIBLE
PRO 3

VideoRay Pro 3 User’s Manual
Copyright © 2000-2006, VideoRay LLC
580 Wall Street
Phoenixville, PA 19460
USA
http://www.videoray.com
No material may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means for any purpose without expressed written
consent of VideoRay LLC.
The information contained herein is deemed accurate at the time of printing and is subject to change without notice.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................................................1
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL...............................................................................................................................1
1.2 ABOUT YOUR VIDEORAY .........................................................................................................................1
1.3 FRIENDLY ADVICE.....................................................................................................................................1
2GENERAL INFORMATION.............................................................................................................................3
2.1 DESCRIPTION...............................................................................................................................................3
2.2 OPERATING ENVIRONMENT ....................................................................................................................3
2.3 SPECIFICATIONS.........................................................................................................................................4
3SAFETY FIRST! .................................................................................................................................................5
3.1 USE COMMON SENSE.................................................................................................................................5
3.2 ELECTRICAL AND VIDEORAY SAFETY..................................................................................................5
3.3 PERSONAL SAFETY ....................................................................................................................................5
4GETTING FAMILIAR WITH YOUR VIDEORAY .......................................................................................7
4.1 UNPACKING YOUR VIDEORAY................................................................................................................7
4.2 INSPECTING YOUR VIDEORAY................................................................................................................7
4.3 PREPARING TO OPERATE YOUR VIDEORAY ........................................................................................7
5YOUR FIRST DIVE............................................................................................................................................9
5.1 DIVE CONDITIONS......................................................................................................................................9
5.2 SETTING UP YOUR VIDEORAY.................................................................................................................9
5.3 PRE-DIVE INSPECTION.............................................................................................................................10
5.4 LAUNCHING THE VIDEORAY.................................................................................................................10
5.5 MANEUVERING THE VIDEORAY...........................................................................................................11
5.6 RETRIEVING THE VIDEORAY.................................................................................................................11
5.7 POST-DIVE INSPECTION..........................................................................................................................12
6VIDEORAY CONTROLLER FEATURES AND FUNCTIONS..................................................................13
6.1 CONNECTORS............................................................................................................................................13
6.1.1 TETHER CONNECTION ...................................................................................................................13
6.1.2 VIDEO OUT.......................................................................................................................................13
6.1.3 100 - 240 VAC 50-60 Hz.....................................................................................................................13
6.1.4 RS-232 AUX........................................................................................................................................13
6.2 CONTROLS..................................................................................................................................................13
6.2.1 MAIN POWER (On | Off)...................................................................................................................13
6.2.2 AUXILIARY (On | Off)........................................................................................................................13
6.2.3 JOYSTICK (Forward | Left | Right | Reverse)....................................................................................13
6.2.4 DEPTH CONTROL (Up | Hold | Down)............................................................................................14
6.2.5 CAMERA (Front | Rear).....................................................................................................................14
6.2.6 TILT (Down | Up)...............................................................................................................................15
6.2.7 FOCUS (Out | In)...............................................................................................................................15
6.2.8 LIGHTS (Dim | Bright).......................................................................................................................15
6.2.9 MODE (Calibrate | Set)......................................................................................................................15
6.2.10 DISPLAY CONTRAST (- | +) .............................................................................................................15
6.2.11 GRIPPER (Close |Open) ....................................................................................................................15
6.3 LCD DISPLAY.............................................................................................................................................15
6.3.1 CLOCK...............................................................................................................................................15
6.3.2 RUN-TIME HOUR METER................................................................................................................16
6.3.3 DEPTH GAUGE.................................................................................................................................16
6.3.4 COMPASS ..........................................................................................................................................16
6.4 MONITOR CONTROL.................................................................................................................................16
6.4.1 POWER ..............................................................................................................................................16

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7“BEST” PRACTICES AND DIVING TIPS....................................................................................................16
7.1 NAVIGATION..............................................................................................................................................16
7.2 HANDLING THE TETHER.........................................................................................................................16
7.3 AVOIDING TANGLES................................................................................................................................17
7.4 FREEING ASNAGGED TETHER ..............................................................................................................17
7.5 BALLAST SETUP........................................................................................................................................17
7.6 INCREASING THRUSTER POWER...........................................................................................................18
7.7 LOSS OF THRUSTER POWER...................................................................................................................18
7.8 FOGGED VIEW PORT AND/ OR LIGHT LENSES....................................................................................18
8VIDEORAY MAINTENANCE........................................................................................................................20
8.1 CLEANING VIDEORAY.............................................................................................................................20
8.2 MECHANICAL SERVICING......................................................................................................................20
8.2.1 PRECAUTIONS..................................................................................................................................20
8.2.2 REQUIRED TOOLS...........................................................................................................................20
8.3 CARING FOR SEALS AND O-RINGS........................................................................................................20
8.3.1 INSPECTION .....................................................................................................................................20
8.3.2 RULE OF THUMB.............................................................................................................................20
8.3.3 CARE AND STORAGE.......................................................................................................................21
8.3.4 HANDLING SEALED COMPONENTS..............................................................................................21
8.4 SERVICING THE LIGHTS..........................................................................................................................21
8.4.1 REPLACING A LIGHT BULB............................................................................................................21
8.5 THRUSTER GUARD AND PROPELLER REMOVAL ..............................................................................21
8.5.1 THRUSTER GUARDS........................................................................................................................21
8.5.2 PROPELLER REMOVAL / REPLACEMENT ....................................................................................21
8.6 CARTRIDGE SEAL INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT......................................................................22
8.6.1 OPENING VIDEORAY’S MAIN HOUSING ......................................................................................22
8.6.2 REASSEMBLY OF MAIN HOUSING.................................................................................................23
8.7 CALIBRATION............................................................................................................................................23
8.7.1 SETTING the DATE and TIME ..........................................................................................................23
8.7.2 CALIBRATING the PRESSURE SENSOR..........................................................................................23
8.7.3 CALIBRATING the COMPASS...........................................................................................................24
9FIELD SERVICING .........................................................................................................................................27
9.1 TROUBLE SHOOTING ...............................................................................................................................27
9.1.1 LIGHTS DO NOT WORK...................................................................................................................27
9.1.2 LOSS OF THRUST OR MANEUVERABILITY...................................................................................27
9.1.3 VIDEO MONITOR DOES NOT SHOW PICTURE............................................................................27
9.1.4 POOR PICTURE QUALITY...............................................................................................................27
9.2 ORDERING PARTS.....................................................................................................................................28
9.3 WARRANTY REPAIRS...............................................................................................................................28
10 ACCESSORIES...........................................................................................................................................29
10.1 GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT ACCESSORIES..............................................................................29
10.2 INTEGRATED CONTROL BOX (ICB) WITH 15-INCH MONITOR ................................................................29
10.3 TETHER DEPLOYMENT SYSTEM (TDS) (INCLUDED WITH THE PRO 3)..................................................29
10.4 IMAGING SCANNING SONAR SYSTEM.................................................................................................29
10.5 SHORT BASELINE ACOUSTIC NAVIGATION SYSTEM.......................................................................29
10.6 EXTENSION TETHERS..............................................................................................................................30
10.7 MANIPULATOR..........................................................................................................................................30
11 APPENDIX A – LIMITED WARRANTY...............................................................................................33

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1INTRODUCTION
1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL
The purpose of this manual is to provide information only. It is subject to change without notice and does
not represent a commitment on the part of VideoRay, or its agents.
1.2 ABOUT YOUR VIDEORAY
Prior to shipment, your VideoRay Submersible was tested and found to comply with factory standards.
The serial number of the VideoRay is labeled on the hull under the float block, and inside the hull (visible
through the rear dome). The serial number of the controller is engraved on a plate that is attached to the
front of the Controller case. Please provide your system serial number(s) whenever corresponding with us.
1.3 FRIENDLY ADVICE
“Flying” the VideoRay can be somewhat addictive. If you are operating VideoRay and have an important
appointment later in the day, we strongly recommend you set an alarm clock or arrange to have a friend
remind you at the appointed time!

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2GENERAL INFORMATION
2.1 DESCRIPTION
VideoRay is a submersible, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) designed to take advantage of its portability
and size. Set up and vehicle control are simple and intuitive, enabling VideoRay to be easily carried,
deployed, and operated by one person. VideoRay can go anywhere, powered by conventional AC, or a
battery pack and inverter. Operation of the VideoRay is quickly mastered after only a few practice “flights.”
Connection to a video monitor provides the operator with a view of everything the VideoRay sees.
VideoRay carries no batteries; it is completely powered and controlled from the surface through a small
diameter tether.
For operational safety, the joystick control, vehicle and tether carry a maximum voltage of 48 Volts DC.
2.2 OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
VideoRay ROV
Medium: Fresh or Salt Water
Operating Temperature: 32-122º F (0-50ºC)
VideoRay Integrated Control Box (ICB)
Caution: While the VideoRay ROV is designed to be operated in water, the Integrated Control Box is splash-
resistant and should not be subject to excessive water spray or rain when opened. The Integrated Control Box
case is watertight only when closed.
VideoRay is equipped with a universal power supply. The input voltage range is 100-240Volts AC, 50-60
Hz. A standard computer power cable is used, and in general, the controller may use any standard AC
electrical source in Europe or North America. An optional adapter may be required for use in some countries.
VideoRay can be powered from a battery using an AC inverter. VideoRay recommends at least a 600 Watt
inverter. Sometimes the quality of the inverter can affect the operation of VideoRay. Some inexpensive
inverters do not produce a true sine wave AC output. Instead they produce a ‘chopped’ or ‘simulated’ sine
wave that can produce a lot of electrical noise. A poor quality inverter may produce enough noise to interfere
with operation and/or video quality of VideoRay.

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2.3 SPECIFICATIONS
VideoRay is equipped with a forward facing color camera, two lights, two horizontal thrusters and one
vertical thruster. A rear black and white camera and rear lights are also included in the Pro 3.
Options for the VideoRay Pro 3 include a manipulator, sonar system positioning system, radiation sensor and
more. (See Section 10 on Accessories for more information). Additional options are being added on a regular
basis, please check http://www.videoray.com or your VideoRay dealer for the latest information.
Depth Rating 152 m (500 feet)
Depth Gauge Selectable meters or feet
Resolution = 0.1 units (meters or feet)
Dimensions 30.48 cm (12 inches) long
22.5 cm (8-7/8 inches) wide
22.9 cm (9 inches) high
Weight 3.6 kg (8 lb)
Operating Voltage 100-240 Volts AC controller supply voltage
Internal Voltage 48 Volts DC maximum
Lights 2 - 20 Watts (1 port, 1 starboard)
Front Camera Viewing Angle +/- 90º
Front Camera Tilt Angle +/- 75º Pitch (vertical rotation)
Front Camera Focus From the face of the housing dome to infinity
Rear Camera Tilt / Focus Fixed
Video Display Monitor 127mm (5 inch) LCD
Tether 76 m (250 feet) Neutrally Buoyant is standard
Custom length, neutral or negative buoyancy is available
Minimum bend diameter = approximately 8 cm (3 inches)
Speed 0 – 2.5 knots

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3SAFETY FIRST!
The following safety tips may prevent injury to you as the operator and those around you, or damage to the
VideoRay submersible.
3.1 USE COMMON SENSE
1) Read the safety and operating instructions before operating the VideoRay.
2) Heed all warnings printed on the system components and in the manual.
3) Retain this manual and other safety and operating instructions for future reference.
4) Be aware of and alert to potential hazards in and around water, including weather conditions, and follow
standard water safety practices.
3.2 ELECTRICAL AND VIDEORAY SAFETY
1) Electricity and Water don’t mix! Use caution with all power supply cables and do not handle them
while you are in contact with water or allow them to come into contact with water. The VideoRay
submersible, the tether and approved accessories are the only items that can be safely placed in water.
2) Do not use any system that contains broken or ruptured insulation, frayed wires or loose connections.
Repair such conditions before resuming operations.
3) Protect the Integrated Control Box from splashes and immersion in water when open. The controller is
sealed when closed, and splash resistant when open.
4) Always plug the system into a grounded receptacle.
5) There are no user serviceable parts inside the Integrated Control Box. Only qualified technicians or
VideoRay personnel should perform electrical servicing.
6) Do not subject the VideoRay to impact.
7) Never operate the lights for more than 60 seconds out of water. Never operate the thrusters for more
than 20 seconds out of water. Your VideoRay is designed for submerged operation and requires water
to cool the lights and thrusters.
8) Do not stress or kink the tether or bend it tighter than the minimum bend diameter, which is about 3
inches. Do not allow the tether to be deployed over sharp edges or rough surfaces.
3.3 PERSONAL SAFETY
Be aware of the safety of those around you!
1) Beware of swimmers or boaters. The VideoRay and tether can pose a hazard to swimmers, divers, and
small craft, as well as persons in and around the operating area. Obtain the acknowledgment of those
around you prior to launch. Make sure everyone within VideoRay’s range of operation is aware the
vehicle is being deployed.
2) Keep your operating area neat and free of accident causing clutter.
3) Keep fingers and objects clear of the thruster propellers.

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4GETTING FAMILIAR WITH YOUR VIDEORAY
4.1 UNPACKING YOUR VIDEORAY
Your VideoRay Remotely Operated Video Inspection Submersible is packaged and shipped in two rugged
Pelican Diver Cases. These cases have O-rings and are sealed against water when closed. The smaller case
integrates the power supply, controller, and optional screen and or recording device. The larger wheeled case
contains the VideoRay ROV, tether and if purchased, the optional Tether Deployment system.
Upon receiving your VideoRay, check the containers and contents for any damage that may have occurred
during transport.
4.2 INSPECTING YOUR VIDEORAY
In the shipping crates you should find these components:
1) Fully assembled VideoRay ROV with tether
2) Integrated Power Supply / Controller
3) Maintenance Tools and Spare Parts Kit
4) Video Monitor (mounted in Controller case cover)
5) This Owner's Manual and related reference cards
6) Any optional accessories you purchased
Should any of these components be missing or damaged, please notify the selling agency.
4.3 PREPARING TO OPERATE YOUR VIDEORAY
Operating your VideoRay controller is like being in the driver’s seat of your car. The joystick and switches
are used to control your VideoRay ROV, similar to the way you use the steering wheel, pedals and
dashboard knobs to control your car’s operation. The controller’s LCD display provides feedback like your
dashboard gauges do, and the Video monitor displays what you might see through the “windshield.”
Additionally, a video overlay allows some settings to be superimposed over the video image to allow
heads-up control and navigation.
Before setting up and operating your VideoRay, we recommend that you read all safety precautions in Section
3. The fundamentals of operation can be found in Section 5. Detailed descriptions of all of the features
and functions can be found in Section 6. Section 7 provides advanced handling instructions and tips.
Sections 8 and 9 cover maintenance and troubleshooting, and Section 10 describes optional accessories.
Take a moment now to familiarize yourself with the VideoRay ROV, the controller’s layout and the feel of
the controls. Proper operation, maintenance and safe handling of your VideoRay will provide you with
successful dive operations and extended serviceability.

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5YOUR FIRST DIVE
Your VideoRay ROV has been designed with ease of use in mind. This section covers only the most basic
aspects of operating your VideoRay. It will walk you through the steps required to make your first dive.
Section 6 contains a complete reference to all of the features and functions of your VideoRay.
Note: If the Safety Instructions in Section 3 have not been read, it is recommended you do so before
operating your VideoRay.
5.1 DIVE CONDITIONS
Your first dive should be made in conditions that are suitable for learning. The following conditions are
optimal:
•Good weather and low wind speed
•Clear water
•Slow water current
•No obstructions above or below the surface
While VideoRay can be used in less than optimal conditions, including some rather extreme conditions, it is
best to gain some experience before attempting such challenges. If the conditions are too adverse, it may be
wise to postpone your dive or find a more suitable dive location.
Until you feel comfortable operating your VideoRay, you should try to operate it within a close range.
5.2 SETTING UP YOUR VIDEORAY
The following procedures outline the steps required to prepare the VideoRay for operation.
1) Open the Power Supply / Controller box and make sure the Main Power switch is set to the “Off”
position.
2) Unpack the VideoRay and tether from the second container. Be careful not to kink the tether. See
Section 7.2 for proper tether handling techniques and cautions. A Tether Deployment System (TDS) is
an available option that greatly simplifies tether management and reduces the possibility of tether
damage from mishandling.
3) Connect the surface end of the tether directly to the controller. Connect the VideoRay ROV end of the
tether to the VideoRay ROV. The connectors are different and cannot be accidentally reversed.
4) Using the supplied video cable, connect a video monitor to the Video Out connector. A monitor with
a ground prong on its power cord is recommended. (The Integrated Control Box allows an optional
color video display to be installed in the cover.)
5) Plug the power cord into an appropriate Alternating Current (AC) power source.
6) You may need to adjust the ballast depending upon dive conditions and the activities you intend to
perform. See Section 7.5 for more information on adjusting the ballast.
Once the system is connected together, a Pre-Dive Inspection should be made.

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5.3 PRE-DIVE INSPECTION
A Pre-dive check should to be carried out prior to every dive.
1) Visually inspect the vehicle to ensure that the propellers are free of tangles and that the vehicle is in
operational condition. Check the propeller guards for damage and / or misalignment.
2) Check the tether for scrapes, nicks or other visible damage.
3) Ensure that all fasteners and the ballast are in place and secure.
4) Ensure that all cables are properly connected and the tether connectors are screwed together tightly to
avoid separation and loss of the VideoRay ROV.
5) Power up the system by engaging the Main Power switch to the “On” position.
6) Move the joystick in all directions to test the port and starboard thrusters.
CAUTION! Do not operate the thrusters for more that 20 seconds when the VideoRay ROV is out of the
water. Prolonged operation in a dry environment will result in damage to motor shaft seals.
7) Using the Depth Control knob, rotate it to test the vertical thruster. Return the knob to the neutral
position.
8) Verify that both lights are working by turning the light knob toward “Bright”, and then returning the knob
to the “Dim” position.
CAUTION! Do not operate the lights for more than 60 seconds when the VideoRay ROV is out of the
water. Doing so may cause overheating and damage the unit.
9) Test the camera tilt and focus functions. The Tilt and Focus switches are spring-loaded momentary
contact type switches and will return to the neutral position when pressure is released. All switches,
except the Main Power switch, work this way.
10) Check the camera and monitor operation. If you are using a VCR, check that the recording and playback
functions are operational. Check the rear facing camera operation and rear lights.
11) Check any other additional accessories according to the specific procedures for each accessory.
12) If you are not ready to launch the VideoRay, power down the system until launch time.
5.4 LAUNCHING THE VIDEORAY
CAUTION! Be certain that the tether connectors are securely connected and tightly screwed together to
avoid separation and loss of the VideoRay ROV.
1) Power up the VideoRay.
2) The tether should be neatly coiled and made ready to deploy. It must be free of tangles, knots, and other
obstructions.
3) Inform swimmers, divers, boaters and others in the area that you are about to deploy the VideoRay and
that a tether that will be in the water as well.
4) Avoid dropping or throwing the VideoRay into the water. Rather, use the tether to lower the VideoRay
to the water surface. This method will prevent potential of impact of the VideoRay against the pier or
vessel from which you are launching.

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5.5 MANEUVERING THE VIDEORAY
VideoRay is relatively easy to fly... and fun! Initially, a new operator should spend a few minutes controlling
the VideoRay within sight near the surface in order to become familiar with VideoRay's reaction to its
controls.
Flying the VideoRay in open water is not difficult and is quickly mastered. Operating the VideoRay in and
around obstacles such as boats, pilings, and anchor lines will require a little more practice. In these
conditions, it is advisable to go slow and consider the possible effects of any maneuvers.
Basic VideoRay operating instructions:
1) The operation of VideoRay is intuitive and simple. The joystick controls variable speed forward and
reverse thrust. Push the joystick forward to move VideoRay forward. Pull the joystick back to back
up.
2) Steering VideoRay is accomplished by moving the joystick left or right. Additionally, the joystick
rotates (third axis control) to enhance control capabilities, but it is not necessary to use these
capabilities on your first dive. See Section 6.2.3 for more details about the third axis control.
3) The Depth Control knob on the left-hand side of the controller controls the vertical thruster. Rotating
the knob from the center detent position controls the rate of dive or ascent. Rotating the knob toward
“Down” increases the depth. Rotating the knob toward “Up” causes the VideoRay to move toward
the surface. VideoRay should be ballasted to always float upwards slowly, so continuous downward
thrust is necessary to dive or to maintain a constant depth. When using Automatic Depth Control, the
default mode, the controller will maintain a constant depth for you. See Section 6.2.2 for more
information about using Auto Depth Control and manual depth control.
Note: Inadequate ballast will cause VideoRay to float high in the water. When this happens the
vertical thruster may not be sufficiently submerged to provide adequate downward thrust, and a rather
impressive "water fountain" effect will result. Add more weight to the ballast if this is a problem.
See Section 7.5 for tips on proper adjusting the ballast.
4) The front camera may be tilted up or down by engaging the Tilt “Up” / “Down” switch in the desired
direction. Releasing the switch causes the camera to hold its orientation.
5) To focus the front camera, engage the Focus ‘In’ / ‘Out’ switch in the desired direction until the
optimal focus is achieved. Releasing the switch causes the camera to hold its focus.
6) The intensity of the lights may be adjusted by turning the Lights knob.
Relax and enjoy your dive. Whatever you do, DON'T PANIC.... In the event of a problem, or if the tether
appears to have become snagged on an obstacle, the best course of action is to stop and calmly assess the
situation. A way out may present itself. Should you experience any problems, see Sections 7 and 9 for tips
and troubleshooting.
5.6 RETRIEVING THE VIDEORAY
1) Ensure the tether is free from obstacles on which it may become caught or entangled in the water.
2) Navigate the VideoRay to a retrieval area where the water surface is clear of obstacles.
3) Power down the VideoRay by switching off the main power supply.
4) Retrieve the VideoRay by pulling it out of the water by its tether. Care should be taken to coil the tether
properly (see Section 7.2) and avoid collisions between VideoRay and the pier or boat hull.
5) Once the VideoRay is retrieved, perform a Post-Dive Inspection as described below.

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5.7 POST-DIVE INSPECTION
A Post-Dive inspection should be carried out after every dive.
1) Make sure the VideoRay is securely on-board.
2) Power Down the system.
3) Unplug the connections.
4) The vehicle should be visually inspected following each dive to ensure that no mechanical damage has
occurred.
5) Visually check through the ports to ensure that no water has entered the pressure housings.
6) Check that the propeller shafts have not been fouled with material such as fishing line, string, seaweed,
or other debris.
7) If VideoRay has been used in salt water, thoroughly rinse the vehicle with fresh water prior to
being stored away. Turn the vehicle upside down while rinsing to let water drain from the
pressure sensor cavity under the float block.
8) Inspect the tether for cuts, nicks and / or kinks in the outer shell. Store the tether properly for the next
use.
9) Store all components securely.

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6VIDEORAY CONTROLLER FEATURES AND FUNCTIONS
6.1 CONNECTORS
6.1.1 TETHER CONNECTION
This connector is used to couple the Controller to the VideoRay ROV using the supplied tether.
6.1.2 VIDEO OUT
This composite video out connector is connected to the integrated video display monitor. Alternatively, it
can be connected to a user supplied video monitor or VCR for displaying and/or recording images captured
by the VideoRay ROV onboard camera. The signal format complies with either NTSC or PAL as specified
when your system was ordered.
6.1.3 100 - 240 VAC 50-60 Hz
This is the power source feed for the Controller’s power. For maximum portability, the VideoRay can be
run from several common power sources. The AC power cord plugs into any standard outlet supplying 100
through 240 Volts AC. An external battery using an inverter may also be used to power the VideoRay.
6.1.4 RS-232 AUX
This DB-9 style connector provides an RS-232 interface as well as other auxiliary connections for accessories.
6.2 CONTROLS
6.2.1 MAIN POWER (On | Off)
This switch activates the controller. It should remain in the “Off” position when not using your VideoRay
or when the system is unattended.
6.2.2 AUXILIARY (On | Off)
This switch is used to change between various Controller modes.
•Momentarily engaging it to “On” cycles Joystick Third Axis Control functions (Section 6.2.3).
•Momentarily engaging it to “Off” toggles Automatic Depth Control on and off (Section 6.2.5).
6.2.3 JOYSTICK (Forward | Left | Right | Reverse)
The joystick controls variable speed forward and reverse thrust. Push the joystick forward to move
VideoRay forward. Pull the joystick back to back up. Steering VideoRay is accomplished by moving the
joystick left or right. Additionally, the joystick rotates (third axis control) to enhance control capabilities.
Joystick Third Axis Control
The VideoRay joystick incorporates an additional operating technique that greatly increases the user’s
ability to control the VideoRay. The joystick has a "Third Axis" of operation. In addition to moving both
forward and back (first axis) and side to side (second axis,) the knob will rotate either clockwise or
counterclockwise (third axis).

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A unique and extremely valuable characteristic of the VideoRay is the “user selectable” mode of the third
axis control. The third axis mode can be set for any one of the following functions:
1) No Function – In this mode, the third axis does not perform any function. This is the default mode
when the VideoRay is powered on.
2) Depth Control Mode - rotating the joystick clockwise causes the VideoRay to dive, rotating
counterclockwise causes it to rise. The rate of depth change is proportional to the amount the knob
is rotated. In this mode, the joystick knob takes the place of the Depth Control knob, although the
Depth Control knob does not return to center with a spring the way the joystick does.
3) Camera Tilt Mode - rotating the knob counterclockwise tilts the camera up, clockwise tilts it down.
This takes the place of the Tilt switch, and is therefore not proportional. In other words, rotating the
joystick more will not cause the camera to tilt faster.
4) Lights Mode - rotating the knob counterclockwise decreases the brightness of the lights, rotating it
clockwise increases the brightness. The amount the knob is rotated determines the rate of change -
when centered the brightness level is held constant.
5) Manipulator Mode - rotating the knob counterclockwise opens the manipulator, rotating it clockwise
closes the manipulator.
Momentarily engage the Auxiliary switch to “On” to change the mode of the third axis. The mode cycles
from “No Function” through the four additional functions in the order they are listed above. The newly
selected third axis mode is briefly superimposed on the video display after switching functions.
Note: When the third axis mode is active, the corresponding control switch or knob for that function is
disabled.
6.2.4 DEPTH CONTROL (Up | Hold | Down)
A Depth Control knob on the left-hand side of the controller controls the vertical thruster. Rotating the
knob from the center detent position controls the rate of dive or ascent. Rotating the knob toward “Down”
increases the depth. Rotating the knob toward “Up” causes the VideoRay to move toward the surface.
VideoRay should be ballasted to always float upwards, so continuous downward thrust is necessary to dive
or to maintain a constant depth. When using Automatic Depth Control, the controller will maintain a
constant depth for you. Auto Depth Control is by default set to “Off” when the VideoRay Pro 3 is powered
up.
Automatic Depth Control (Auto-Depth)
When Auto-Depth is on and the Depth Control knob is centered on “Hold,” the vertical thruster will
attempt to maintain a constant depth. Rotating the Depth Control knob away from the center position will
cause the VideoRay to rise or dive. Centering the knob again will then maintain the new depth. There may
be some “bounce” or overshoot after adjusting the depth when Auto-Depth is activated. Usually, waiting a
few seconds is all that is needed for the new depth to stabilize.
To activate or disable the Auto-Depth function, momentarily engage the Auxiliary switch to the “Off”
position. The newly selected on or off state of the Auto-Depth will be briefly superimposed on the video
display after toggling the Auxiliary switch. With Auto-Depth off, the Depth Control knob directly and
proportionally controls the amount of vertical thruster "up" or "down" power. When the knob is centered,
there will be no thrust and the VideoRay will rise or sink depending up on the ballast setting and the
presence of any vertical water currents.
6.2.5 CAMERA (Front | Rear)
This switch selects between the front and rear camera. Only one camera may be monitored at any time.
When selecting the camera, light control will automatically switch between the forward and rear lights as
appropriate.

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6.2.6 TILT (Down | Up)
The front camera may be tilted up and down by engaging the Tilt “Up” / “Down” switch in the desired
direction. Releasing the switch causes the camera to hold its orientation. The rear camera is fixed and
cannot be tilted.
6.2.7 FOCUS (Out | In)
To focus the front camera, engage the Focus ‘In’ / ‘Out’ switch in the desired direction until the optimal
focus is achieved. Releasing the switch causes the camera to hold its focus. The rear camera uses a fixed
focus lens that cannot be changed.
6.2.8 LIGHTS (Dim | Bright)
The Lights knob controls the brightness of VideoRay’s on-board lights. When rotated to the “Dim”
position, the lights may not go out, but glow slightly. Do not set the lights to “Bright” for more than 20
seconds when the VideoRay is out of the water.
6.2.9 MODE (Calibrate | Set)
This switch is used for several purposes. First, it cycles through the Video Overlay modes. The Video
Overlay superimposes information over the video image from the camera. Any attached video recording
device also records the Video Overlay. Each time the Mode switch is momentarily engaged to “Set,” the
overlay mode cycles to the next Video Overlay display. The sequence is as follows:
1) No Overlay
2) Date and Time
3) Depth and Compass Heading
4) Date and Time and Depth and Heading
The Mode switch is also used to select the Depth Display Units (Section 6.3.3). The units can be displayed
in either feet of meters. By engaging the switch to “Set” while powering up the system, the units displayed
will toggle between feet and meters. VideoRay will “remember” the last units used and continue to power
up in that mode until changed by the operator.
Finally, the Mode switch is used to calibrate the Compass and Depth Gauge (Section 8.7).
6.2.10 DISPLAY CONTRAST (- | +)
This knob controls the LCD Display contrast. The LCD Display is discussed in the next section.
6.2.11 GRIPPER (Close |Open)
This switch closes or opens the optional gripper.
6.3 LCD DISPLAY
The LCD Display is used to provide feedback to the operator. Display information includes depth, units of
depth, heading, a 24 hour clock and run-time clock. The LCD also provides messages for configuration
and calibration operations. The LCD display contrast is adjustable for easy viewing under varying light
conditions.
6.3.1 CLOCK
VideoRay is equipped with a 24 hour real time clock. The date and time can be set using the steps
provided in Section 8.7.

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6.3.2 RUN-TIME HOUR METER
The VideoRay controller keeps track of the total number of hours the VideoRay has been powered up.
Whenever the VideoRay is powered up, the meter continues from the reading when it was last turned off.
The Run-Time meter cannot be reset.
6.3.3 DEPTH GAUGE
Depth is displayed in feet or meters by the digital readout on the LCD display. To toggle the display units,
engage the Mode switch to “Set” while powering up the system (See Section 6.2.9). Depth calibration of
the pressure sensor is set at the factory for fresh water. See Section 8.7 for instructions on calibrating the
Pressure Sensor.
6.3.4 COMPASS
VideoRay is equipped with an internal compass to aid in navigation. The compass rose is presented on the
LCD display and is marked with North, South, East, and West directions. The compass is calibrated at the
factory, but can be re-calibrated as needed. See Section 8.7 for instructions on calibrating the Compass.
6.4 MONITOR CONTROL
6.4.1 POWER
The monitor powers up automatically when the controller is turned on. The monitor Power button can be
used to turn off the video display while the controller is on. Pressing the Power button again will turn the
monitor on.
7“BEST” PRACTICES AND DIVING TIPS
7.1 NAVIGATION
Navigation of a submersible is very different from navigation on land. The largest difference is that
VideoRay operates in three dimensions, rather than the familiar two. Below are some tips for navigating with
VideoRay in its native environment.
1) The submerged operation and navigation of VideoRay is accomplished by what is commonly referred
to as "dead reckoning". This involves the observation and subsequent recognition of landmarks as
viewed on your Video Monitor. The compass rose will help you keep track of direction.
2) When operating in areas containing obstructions or obstacles that could snag or foul the tether, the
operator should endeavor to remember the route taken to get to any one position. Not only will this
information be helpful on the return trip, it will be extremely valuable in the event the tether does
become snagged or fouled!
3) In the event obstructions are encountered, or you become lost or disoriented with respect to VideoRay's
position, always remember that the safest way back is to follow the tether. VideoRay Pro 3 includes as
an option a Positioning System that can be used to continuously monitor the position of the VideoRay.
7.2 HANDLING THE TETHER
The tether should be considered the most important part of the VideoRay system. It feeds power and
control signals to the vehicle and returns data from the sensors. If the tether becomes damaged from
improper use, poor handling or an accident, the vehicle may become crippled or inoperable. For maximum
tether life and reliability, VideoRay Pro 3 includes the Tether Deployment System (TDS). When used
properly, the TDS can eliminate many of the complications of tether management. The following tether
handling tips are provided:
1) Never step on the tether. Trampling the tether underfoot may crush conductors and coax cables,
leading to premature failure. Trampling is also abrasive to the tether jacket. Remember, this is a
multi-conductor tether, not at electrical extension cord.