MT9x2S Series

1000 and 3000 meters

MF - GAPS Beacon

User Guide
 MT9x2S Series – User Guide

Copyright
All rights reserved. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted, in any form
or by any means, whether electronic, printed manual or otherwise, including but not
limited to photocopying, recording or information storage and retrieval systems, for any
purpose without prior written permission of iXBlue.

Disclaimer
iXBlue specifically disclaims all warranties, either express or implied, included but not
limited to implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose with
respect to this product and documentation. iXBlue reserves the right to revise or make
changes or improvements to this product or documentation at any time without notify any
person of such revision or improvements.
In no event shall iXBlue be liable for any consequential or incidental damages, including
but not limited to loss of business profits or any commercial damages, arising out of the
use of this product.

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Warranty

iXBlue provides a standard warranty of one (1) year covering this product against any
defect in materials or manufacture. The warranty starts from the date of shipment of the
product from iXBlue’s manufacturing premises to customer’s location and its duration is
indicated in the certificate of warranty delivered with the product. In the event that a defect
in materials or manufacture becomes obvious during the stipulated warranty period,
iXBlue will undertake, at its sole discretion, either to repair the defective product, bearing
the cost of all parts and labor, or to replace it with an identical product.
In order to avail itself of this warranty, Customer must notify iXBlue of the defect before
expiry of the warranty period and take all steps necessary to enable iXBlue to proceed.
Customer shall be responsible for the packaging and the shipment of the defective
product to the repair center notified by iXBlue, the cost of such shipment being borne by
Customer. iXBlue agrees to bear the cost of return freight, based on CPT (Cost Paid To)
Customer’s airport location, import tax-free.
This warranty shall not be construed as covering defects, malfunctions or damages
caused by improper use or inadequate maintenance of the product. Under no
circumstances shall iXBlue be due to provide repair or replacement under this warranty in
order a) to repair damage caused by work done by any person not representing iXBlue for
the installation, repair or maintenance of the product ; b) to repair damage caused by
improper use or connection to incompatible equipment, and specifically, the opening of
the housing of the equipment under warranty shall cause the warranty to be automatically
cancelled ; c) to maintain any product that has been modified or integrated into a larger
configuration, if such modification or integration increases the duration or difficulty of the
maintenance of said product.
This warranty covers the product hereunder and is provided by iXBlue in place of all and
any other warranty whether expressed or implied. iXBlue does not guarantee the
suitability of the product under warranty for sale or any specific use. iXBlue’s liability is
limited to the repair or replacement of defective products, this being the sole remedy open
to Customer in the event the warranty becomes applicable. iXBlue cannot be held liable
for indirect, special, subsequent or consequential damage, irrespective of whether iXBlue
has or has not received prior notification of the risk of occurrence of such damage.

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Export Regulation
This export regulation concerns the MT932S series.

This product is classified as a dual-use good: it has been developed for non-military use,
but could be used for military applications.
As a consequence, this product is subject to dual-use goods export control procedures:
• iXBlue can deliver this product freely to France or any other country of the European
Union;
• iXBlue can export this product under its own Community General Export Authorization
EU 001 to the following countries: Australia, Canada, USA, Japan, New-Zealand,
Norway and Switzerland;
• iXBlue can also export this product to other countries but only through the issuance of
an individual export license by the French authorities.
Once in its country of first destination:
• From a country member of European Union, this product is free of movement (travel)
as long as it remains within the European Union;
• From a country member of European Union, this product can only be re-exported to a
non European Union member country under the dual-use goods export control
procedures set forth by the national authorities;
• From another country, this product can only be re-exported under both the conditions
of the original export license from France (depending on its type and content) and the
dual-use goods export control procedures set forth by the national authorities.
If an individual export license has to be issued by the French authorities, iXBlue requires
you to provide as needed a description of your usual activity (and the one of the end-user
if different) and the end-user to fill out an end-user certificate which includes:
• The description of the intended application of the product
• A commitment not to re-export the product (without applying for an export license to
the competent national authorities as set above).
This product cannot be exported or re-exported to Cuba, Syria, North Korea, Libya, Sudan
and Iran.

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Text Usage

bold Bold text is used for items you must select or click in the
software. It is also used for the field names used into the dialog
box.
courier Text in this font denotes text or characters that you should enter
from the keyboard, the proper names of disk Drives, paths,
directories, programs, functions, filenames and extensions.

italic Italic text is the result of an action in the procedures.

Icons
The Note icon indicates that the following information is of interest to the operator and
should be read.

THE CAUTION ICON INDICATES THAT THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION SHOULD BE READ TO FORBID
OR PREVENT PRODUCT DAMAGE.

THE WARNING ICON INDICATES THAT POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH COULD RESULT

FROM FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE PROVIDED RECOMMENDATION.

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Overview of the MT9x2S User Manual

This document is the User Manual for MT9x2S Mini Transponders. It must be read and
understood prior to using MT9x2S. The manufacturer shall in no case be held liable for
any application or use that does not comply with the stipulations in this manual.
The MT9x2S User Manual is divided into several parts:

• Part 1: Introduction – This section gives a general overview of the MT9x2S and
describes the architecture of the system.

• Part 2: Installing the MT9x2S – This section helps you to install the MT9x2S.

• Part 3: Operating the MT9x2S – This part describes the deployment and the
operation of the MT9x2S in the simplest mode.

• Part 4: Configuration Software – This part describes the MT9x2S configuration

software designed for the configuration of the transponder.

• Part 5: Maintenance – This part lists all the maintenance operations that you can
apply on the MT9x2S.

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Abbreviations and Acronyms

AUV Automated Unmanned Vehicle

CIF Common Interrogation Frequency

GAPS Global Acoustic Positioning System

IIF Individual Interrogation Frequency

IRF Individual Response Frequency

LBL Long Base Line

MF Medium Frequency

OCV Open Circuit Voltage

ROV Remote Operated Vehicle

RT Release Transponder

TVR Transmit Voltage Response

SPL Sound Pressure Level

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Table of Contents
I INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................... 1
I.1 MT9x2S Overview ............................................................................................................... 1
I.2 Acoustic Specifications ..................................................................................................... 3
I.2.1 Responder Mode Specifications ...................................................................................... 4
I.2.2 Transponder Mode Specifications .................................................................................... 5
I.2.3 Transmitter Module.......................................................................................................... 6

I.3 Mechanical Specifications ................................................................................................. 7

I.4 Electrical Specifications .................................................................................................... 9
I.4.1 Batteries .......................................................................................................................... 9
I.4.2 Autonomy ........................................................................................................................ 9
I.4.3 External Power Supply .................................................................................................... 9
I.4.4 Electronic and Mechanical Ground ................................................................................ 10
I.4.5 Input / Output Port ......................................................................................................... 10
I.4.6 MT9x2S/HD with Remote Acoustic Head ....................................................................... 11
I.4.7 MT9x2S Cable Adaptor for Charging and Configuration ................................................. 12

II INSTALLING THE MT9X2S ......................................................................................................... 13

II.1 Verification of MT9x2S Pack Contents ............................................................................ 13
II.2 Quick Start........................................................................................................................ 13
II.3 Storing .............................................................................................................................. 14
II.4 Floating Collar .................................................................................................................. 14
III OPERATING THE MT9X2S ......................................................................................................... 15
III.1 Operational Modes ........................................................................................................... 15
III.2 Getting Started with the MT9x2S ..................................................................................... 16
III.2.1 Checking the Pressure Relief Valve ............................................................................... 16
III.2.2 Charging the Batteries ................................................................................................... 16
III.2.3 Setting Up the Parameters of the MT9x2S ..................................................................... 16
III.2.4 Switching ON the MT9x2S ............................................................................................. 17
III.2.5 Testing the MT9x2S ...................................................................................................... 17

III.3 Mounting Recommendations........................................................................................... 18

III.4 Recovering the MT9x2S ................................................................................................... 19
IV CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE ..................................................................................................... 20
IV.1 Installing the Configuration Software on the Workstation ............................................. 20
IV.2 Connecting the Different Elements ................................................................................. 21
IV.2.1 Using the USB Port of the PC ........................................................................................ 21
IV.2.2 Using the RS232 Port of the PC .................................................................................... 22

IV.3 Configuration Software Overview.................................................................................... 23

IV.4 List of the MT9x2S Configuration Parameters ................................................................ 25

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IV.5 Configuring the MT9x2S ...................................................................................................26

IV.5.1 Setting the Communication Port .....................................................................................26
IV.5.2 Managing the Configuration............................................................................................27
IV.5.2.1 Loading, Saving a Configuration from a Disk ..................................................................27
IV.5.2.2 Resetting the Configuration ............................................................................................28
IV.5.2.3 Saving the Configuration to the Beacon ..........................................................................28
IV.5.3 Configuring the Interrogation Frequency Codes ..............................................................29
IV.5.4 Configuring the Blanking Time and Turn Around Time ....................................................30
IV.5.5 Configuring the Sound Pressure Level ............................................................................30
IV.5.6 Computing Statistics.......................................................................................................31
IV.5.7 Using the Command Utility Tool .....................................................................................31
IV.5.7.1 Displaying the Current Voltage .......................................................................................32
IV.5.7.2 Displaying the Current Pressure (Optional) .....................................................................32
V M AINTENANCE ..........................................................................................................................33
IXBLUE CONTACT - SUPPORT 24/7 CUSTOMER SUPPORT HELPLINE .................................38
IXBLUE CONTACT - SALES ..........................................................................................................39
APPENDICES...................................................................................................................................40
A. Principle of Fast Charging MT9x2S Transponders..........................................................40
B. Mechanical Drawings ........................................................................................................41
B.1 Technical Label ..............................................................................................................41
B.2 References.....................................................................................................................41
B.3 Transducer PET 962S (P/N 940 0067) ...........................................................................42
B.4 Cable for Remote Transducer (SUBCONN Connectors) .................................................43
B.5 Responder Cable for MT9x2S ........................................................................................44
B.6 Mechanical Drawing of MT912S–R.................................................................................45
B.7 Mechanical Drawing of MT912S/HD-R ...........................................................................47
B.8 Mechanical Drawing of MT932S–R.................................................................................49
B.9 Mechanical Drawing of MT932S/HD–R...........................................................................51

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I INTRODUCTION

The MT9x2S Series acoustic Transponder/Responder are designed primarily for use with
GAPS underwater positioning system to track ROVs, tow fish and other subsea targets in
water depths up to 1,000 m and up to 3,000 m. Compact and rugged MT9x2S uses iXBlue
wide spectrum M-FSK technology. The MT9x2S can be interrogated by acoustic link
through water (transponder mode) or via cable (responder mode). It is powered from its
own internal rechargeable NiMH battery or an external supply.

THE RULES WHICH APPLY FOR THE CHARGING OF THE TRANSPONDER MUST BE STRICTLY

OBSERVED.

I.1 MT9x2S Overview

Several versions of the MT9x2S exist. They are listed in the Table 1. The 1,000 m integral
version is illustrated in Figure 1.

Table 1 – MT9x2S versions

Name Definition

Standard version featuring integral transducer and end cap

fitted with a Micro SUBCONN socket 8-point connector for main
MT912S–R (1,000 m)
external power supply, internal power supply for safety
MT932S–R (3,000 m)
positioning, responder mode with automatic switch to
transponder mode

MT912S/HD–R (1,000 m) Version fitted with a remote transducer connected to the main
MT932S/HD-R (3,000 m) body by a 3 m long cable

Upon customer request, the MT9x2S can be equipped of a floating collar providing
positive buoyancy to the transponder. See section II.4.

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Figure 1 - MT912S – R with integral transducer and terminal plug

Figure 2 - MT912S/HD–R with remote transducer

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I.2 Acoustic Specifications

The MT9x2S transponder/responder features are:
• Four separate interrogation frequencies (1 among 4 field software selectable)
• Acoustic Transmit Reply: M-FSK
• Transmit pressure level: Medium (188 dB ref. 1µPa at 1m) or other levels High (191
dB) or Low (185 dB)

Trigger Mode The MT9x2S receives an electric trigger or an acoustic interrogation pulse respectively in
responder mode (see section I.2.1) or in transponder mode (see section I.2.2). The
MT9x2S returns an acoustic signal that is received and processed by the hydrophone /
acoustic positioning system (see section I.2.3). The reply is a M-FSK wide spectrum pulse
that can be:
• One of the 10 response codes listed from 0 to 9
• Increasing FM chirp: from 21.739 kHz to 30,303 kHz = code 22
• Decreasing FM chirp: from 30.303 kHz to 21,739 kHz = code 23

Inhibition After receiving a responder trigger pulse, the transponder mode is locked to DISABLE
state for about 25 seconds. After that, the MT9x2S returns automatically to ENABLE state
that allows the detection of an acoustic interrogation.
In addition, after receiving an electrical (responder) pulse or an acoustic (transponder)
interrogation pulse, the MT9x2S is inhibited for a field programmable blanking time to
prevent:
• Multiple interrogations due to noise or multipath in transponder mode
• Bounces or too high-rate trigger signal in responder mode

Multi Targets Four different interrogation frequencies (set up through the configuration software) allow
the positioning of up to 8 targets when the reply codes of the transponders are selected
among codes 22 and 23 and up to 40 targets with reply codes selected among codes 0 to
9. See section IV.

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I.2.1 RESPONDER M ODE SPECIFICATIONS

The specifications of the responder mode are as follows:

• Input triggering signal: opto-isolated logic signal (Insulation voltage: 5,300 V)
• Electrical level: differential input 5 V nominal (4 V to 25 V)
• With “Standard” mode, active on high level state OR with “Fast” mode, active on rising
edge of positive pulse
• Pulse duration: 10 ms

Figure 3 - Responder Input

• Default setting for JP2: OFF (to provide full isolated responder input)
• Turn-around time
 If “Standard” mode selected: Field programmable from 20 ms to 200 ms by 5 ms
step
 If “Fast” mode selected: fixed, 1.5 ms
 Jitter < ± 30 µs
• Blanking time
 Field programmable from 0.8 to 10.0 seconds in 0.1 second step

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I.2.2 TRANSPONDER M ODE SPECIFICATIONS

At power ON of the MT9x2S unit, both responder and transponder modes are activated.
However, upon receipt of a responder trigger pulse, the transponder mode is
automatically locked (DISABLE) for 25 seconds (no trigger detection possible). After this
25 s period of time without responder synchronization, the MT9x2S turns the transponder
mode status to ENABLE and the MT9x2S unit is able to recognize an acoustic
interrogation.
After each acoustic emission (transponder or responder mode), the beacon inhibits itself
(the inhibition time can be set up) to avoid all multiple acoustic reflections of the trigger.
See Figure 4.

Figure 4 – Time diagram

• Maximum Noise Level NIS = 65 dB/ Hz in 18.5 – 30 kHz frequency band

• Tonal interrogation pulse length: 10 ms
• Four independent receiving channels 19.5 kHz, 20 kHz, 20.5 kHz, 21 kHz (factory
set) selectable from the software
• Detection Bandwidth ≅ 280 Hz (+/- 100 Hz)
• Minimum Detection Signal (MDS): 95 +/- 5 dB re. 1µPa
• Turn-around time: configured with the software
 If “Standard” mode selected: from 20 ms to 200 ms in 5 ms step
 If “Fast” mode selected: 10.8 ms fixed
 Jitter ± 200 µs
• Blanking time after acoustic trigger (same as responder mode): field programmable
from 0.8 to 10 s in 0.1 s step

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I.2.3 TRANSMITTER M ODULE

Upon responder or transponder interrogations, the MT9x2S replies by transmitting an

acoustic pulse with the following characteristics:
• Sound level field programmable via the software
 Low: 185 ± 4 dB ref. 1µPa @ 1 m
 Medium: 188 ± 4 dB dB ref. 1 µPa @ 1 m (Factory set)
 High: 191 ± 4 dB ref. 1 µPa @ 1 m
• Radiating pattern: 180 ° (Hemispherical), - 0 dB, + 6 dB
• Acoustic pulse: M-FSK Wideband spread spectrum coded signal
• Central frequency: 26 kHz
• Pulse length: 10.200 ms for code 0 to 9 & 10.508 for codes 22 & 23
• Spectral bandwidth of MFSK pulse: 8.6 kHz
• 12 MFSK coded signals available: code from 0 to 9 and 22 or 23 (field selectable)

Codes 0 to 9 The codes are chosen from Costas series. They are made of 10 elementary signals. The
list of 10 signals that compose the family insures optimum characteristics in terms of auto
and cross-correlation. Phases are contiguous when switching from one elementary signal
to the next. These codes are for provisional use with GAPS in the future.

Codes 22, 23 The signal that is transmitted by the beacon is frequency modulated according to a linear
FM sweep code (MFSK code 22 or MFSK code 23). The signal consists of 14 elementary
signals S(i) transmitted consecutively. Phases are contiguous when switching from one
elementary signal to the next. The code 22 corresponds to a code increasing in frequency,
the code 23 to a decreasing frequency.

IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED TO MIX CODES 22 OR 23 AND CODES FROM 0 TO 9 FOR THE

SIMULTANEOUS POSITIONING OF TARGETS.

IT IS RECOMMENDED TO PROCEED WITH THE MEDIUM (188 DB, FACTORY SET) TRANSMIT SOUND
LEVEL IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE LIFETIME OF THE TRANSDUCER HEAD. HIGH LEVEL (191 DB)
MAY JEOPARDIZE THE TRANSDUCER INTEGRITY OVER THE TIME, PARTICULARLY WHEN

TRANSMITTING IN THE AIR.

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I.3 Mechanical Specifications

The MT9x2S mechanical specifications are listed in Table 2.
The characteristics of the remote transducer are detailed in Table 3.

Table 2 – Mechanical specifications

MT912S-R MT912S/HD-R MT932S-R MT932S/HD-R

Part Number 4459100 4459110 4459300 4459310

Depth Rating (m) 1,000 3,000

Transducer Type Integral Remote PET962S Integral Remote PET962S

Diameter (mm) 91

Length (mm)
With connector 340 288 340 288
Without connector 368 336 368 336

Weight (kg) Air 4.4 5.6 5.7 7.0

Water 2.3 3.0 3.8 4.4
with transducer with transducer
and cable and cable

Material Stainless Steel 316L, Polyurethane, Hypalon

Treatment/completion Nitric Passivation

Closure Screw with CHC M4 head, 10 mm in Stainless Steel A4

Lower cap connector SUBCONN 8 points (MCBH8F), I/O port for beacon configuration, power
supply and responder trigger

Pressure relief vent, internal overpressure threshold 1 bar ± 20 % above

external pressure

Upper cap connector SUBCONN 3 points (MCBH3F), connection to the remote transducer (3 m
MT9x2S/HD-R only long standard cable)

Operation Temperature - 5 to + 40 °C

Storage Temperature - 20 to + 50 °C

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Table 3 – PET962S (p/n 9400067) remote transducer

Diameter 91 mm
Length 124 mm with connector

Cable Length 3m

Maximum Depth 6,000 m

Electrical interface bulkhead connector SUBCONN MCBH3M

OCV (Sh) Open Circuit Voltage ≅ -189 dB ref. 1 V / 1 µPa @ 20 kHz

TVR (Sv) Transmit Voltage Response ≅ 131 dB ref. 1 µPa / 1 V @ 1 m @ 26 kHz

Directivity diagram Hemispherical

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I.4 Electrical Specifications

I.4.1 BATTERIES

The MT9x2S is equipped with NiMH rechargeable batteries 7.2 V, 7600 mAh minimum.
The charger is installed inside the MT9x2S pressure housing. A specific power supply
cable is provided with the MT9x2S to charge the battery pack. Please check the storing
recommendations in section II.3.
The principle of fast charging process is described in Appendix A.
The power consumption of MT9x2S Unit in quiescent state is about 1.6 mA @ 7.5 V.
The energy required per transmit pulse is about 1.7 J (@SPL=188 dB re.1 µPa at 1 m).

I.4.2 AUTONOMY

The fully charged battery pack offers a standby listening period of 4 to 5 months
(depending on temperature conditions) or a number of transmit pulses depending of the
transmitted level, as shown in Table 4.

Table 4 – Autonomy versus sound level and temperature

SPL in dB ref. 1 µPa at 1 m

Low (185 dB) Medium (188 dB) (default) High (191 dB)
(5 s between pulses)

Temperature (Celsius) 20 °C 0 °C 20 °C 20 °C

7.2 V NiMH, 7,600 mAh 160,000 45,000 100,000 45,000

I.4.3 EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY

The external power supply is used to charge the internal battery pack or to operate the
beacon over long period of time.

Table 5 – Electrical specifications

External Power 15 to 30 VDC, 36 W

Consumption Average 11 to 13 W peak after acoustic transmission

80 to 200 mW quiescent

30 W while charging battery

If the external power supply disappears or is switched off, the internal battery pack
automatically powers up the MT9x2S unit, providing jumper between pins 1 and 5 of the
connector remains installed.

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I.4.4 ELECTRONIC AND M ECHANICAL GROUND

Electronic and Mechanical ground are separated. A 1.5 nF 2,000 V capacitor provides a
full isolation in DC current. See Figure 5.

Figure 5 – Remote transducer wiring

I.4.5 INPUT / OUTPUT PORT

The MT9x2S is fitted with an 8-pin MCBH8F SUBCONN female bulkhead connector with
pin-out as displayed in Table 6.

Table 6 – MCBH8F SUBCONN wiring

Pin # RS232 port

1 Ground

2 External Power Supply

15 to 30 VDC (Vext)

3 (-) Responder

4 (+) Responder

5 ON / OFF

6 TX_RS232 Front View

7 RX_RS232

8 NC

The matching in-line plug is referenced MCIL8-M from SUBCONN.

A pigtail responder cable p/n 9300218 is supplied with each MT9x2S unit.

The new version of the transponder has a RS232 port and is equipped with a ring which
is not red (generally blue). The older version with a red ring has a USB port.

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• An ON-OFF switch plug is supplied to operate the MT9x2S unit for a stand-alone
application.
• When the operator is using an external power supply, it is compulsory to connect the
pin 1 to the pin 5 to switch the beacon on. The terminal plug does that.
• The I/O port (RS232 Interface) is used for modifying the configuration of the MT9x2S.
For charging the internal battery pack and setting-up the MT9x2S configuration, iXBlue
is supplying a specific cable adaptor when using a PC-computer fitted with an USB
port:

MT9x2S Type of Communication Reference of Cable Adaptor to be used

RS232 4452320 (Grey housing)

I.4.6 MT9X2S/HD WITH REMOTE ACOUSTIC HEAD

In order to make easier the installation of the MT9x2S series on the underwater vehicle, it
is possible to split the transducer head from the beacon main housing (MT9x2S/HD
models).
When configured to operate with the PET962S remote transducer head (p/n 9400067),
the MT9x2S is equipped with an end-cap featuring a female MCBH3F bulkhead connector
instead of the standard integral transducer. The pin-out of the transducer port connector is
displayed in Table 7. The PET962/MT9x2S interconnect cable is referenced p/n 9300212.

Table 7 - SUBCONN MCBH3F wiring

Pin # Description

1 Transducer Hot point

2 Shield

3 Transducer Cold point

Front View

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I.4.7 MT9X2S CABLE ADAPTOR FOR C HARGING AND CONFIGURATION

Aim The MT9x2S cable adaptor

• Provide the external power supply for battery charging
• Set-up the beacon parameters (edited from the software on the PC)

Terminations The MT9x2S adaptor is fitted (see Figure 6) on its two terminations with:
• 8-pin MCIL8M SUBCONN inline plug to connect the I/O port connector of the MT9x2S
unit for responder & external supply
• Connection box comprising:
 Female type B USB plug for the interface with the computer (an adaptor USB A
USB B is also delivered)
 Power supply connector
 USB hub 2.0 (see Figure 7) used to protect the PC

Figure 6 – MT9x2S cable and plugs

Figure 7 – USB 2.0 hub

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II INSTALLING THE MT9X2S

II.1 Verification of MT9x2S Pack Contents

ON RECEIPT OF THE EQUIPMENT IN ITS SHIPPING CONTAINER, ITS OVERALL CONDITION SHOULD BE
CHECKED FOR SIGNS OF DAMAGE THAT MIGHT HAVE DAMAGED THE CONTENT. REPORT SUCH

DAMAGE TO THE CARRIER AND TO IXBLUE. IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO CONTACT THE

INSURANCE COMPANY IN CASE OF ANY DAMAGE.

You have just received your equipment in a plywood transit case. Before starting the
installation, we recommend to check the contents of the pack and the equipment
immediately on receipt of your MT9x2S System. Specifically, you should check that all
items are present on delivery and that none has sustained any damage.
For that, you find a packing-list detailing all the shipped items in the shipping case. This
packing list had been completed and checked for by iXBlue shortly before shipment.

II.2 Quick Start

TO AVOID DESTRUCTIVE ELECTRICAL SHOCK ON THE TRANSDUCER, DO NOT
MAKE THE BEACON CONTINOUSLY TRANSMIT ACOUSTICALLY IN THE AIR.
Procedure
Step Action

1. Charge the battery. See section III.2.2.

The MT9x2S series GAPS beacon is shipped with its internal battery charged but it is
recommended to have the battery pack fully charged before operation.

2. Check with the build sheet that the default configuration is suitable for your application. If
not, set-up the new parameters of the MT9x2S Transponder/Responder with the
configuration software. See section IV.

3. Set the ON/OFF terminal plug on the external connector of the beacon.
MT9x2S is ON and the unit transmits a pulse once the power-up steps are completed. If
there is no acoustic transmission, remove the terminal plug, wait 3 s and repeat step 3.

4. Interrogate the MT9x2S unit in transponder mode by sending a signal (acoustic or

electrical with a wire loop around the transducer using capacitance coupling) with a
frequency generator at the selected receiving channel. Listen to the MF-FSK acoustic
reply pulse transmitted by the unit.

5. Deploy the MT9x2S. See section III.3.

6. At the end of the operations, recover the MT9x2S unit. See section III.4.

7. End of procedure.

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II.3 Storing
Store the MT9x2S in its original box (see Figure 8) during long and short-term storages.

FOR LONG TERM STORAGE, IT IS RECOMMENDED TO CHARGE THE INTERNAL BATTERY PACK FROM
THE MT9X2S UNIT. SEE CHARGING PROCEDURE PM02 IN SECTION V.

Locations where temperature ranges between +10°C and +30°C are suitable for long-term
storage. The reason is that long-term storage may accelerate the battery self-discharge
and then lead to the deactivation of reactants.
After a long-term storage, at the first battery charging, the deactivation of reactants may
lead to an increased battery voltage and a decreased battery capacity. Repeat several
cycles of charge and discharge in order to restore the original performances of the
batteries.

Figure 8 – MT9x2S series plywood storage box

II.4 Floating Collar

When the MT9x2S is to be deployed on the sea bottom, it is advisable to use a buoyancy
package to keep it vertical. iXBlue proposes a floating collar consisting of two half shells
placed around the transponder housing and fastened by means of bolts and nuts.
Protective eyes are fitted at bottom and top of the floating collar.

Figure 9 – Example of transponder with its floating collar

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III OPERATING THE MT9X2S

TO AVOID DESTRUCTIVE ELECTRICAL SHOCK ON THE TRANSDUCER, DO NOT CONTINUOUSLY

TRANSMIT ACOUSTICALLY IN THE AIR.

USE BY DEFAULT THE M EDIUM 188 DB TRANSMIT POWER RATHER THAN THE HIGH 191 DB TO

PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THE TRANSDUCER.

THE MT9X2S TRANSPONDER IS EQUIPPED OF NIMH RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES.

III.1 Operational Modes

The MT9x2S series unit is can be operated in transponder or responder mode and may
be powered either from internal rechargeable battery pack or from external power supply:
• Transponder mode, triggered by an acoustic signal
• Responder mode, synchronized by an electrical signal via the external connector
Both modes are described in detail at sections I.2.1 and I.2.2. The responder mode is
recommended when the beacon is mounted in noisy acoustic environment and/or
whenever an electrical trigger signal is available via an umbilical from the ships GAPS
Surface System. The different MT9x2S operating states are listed in Table 8.

Table 8 – Description of the different states

Function or Mode Description

OFF The SUBCONN terminal plug is removed, the power supply is OFF.

The SUBCONN terminal plug is in place, the power supply is ON and the unit
ON
transmits an acoustic pulse once the power-up steps are safely completed.

The pulse transmission is synchronized with the reception of the trigger

frequency. The beacon transmits a MFSK pulse of code 0 to 9, 22 or 23 after the
Transponder Mode turnaround time. The interrogate signal is a 10 ms tonal pulse. Only the acoustic
frequency corresponding to F1/19.5 kHz (respectively F2/20.0 kHz or F3/20.5
kHz or F4/21.0 kHz) allows interrogating the MT9x2S in transponder mode.

In this mode, the emission of a pulse is synchronized with the reception of an

electric signal via the 8-points SUBCONN connector. The trigger made of a logic
Responder Mode
active and positive signal 0 - 5 V allows the emission of a programmed pulse
(code 0 to 9, 22 or 23).

CRF1, CRF2 Reply Acoustic M-FSK Signal, wide spectrum bandwidth transmitted by the beacon
Codes CRF1 in responder mode / CRF2 in Transponder mode.

Interaction Responder /
Each electric trigger inhibits the transponder mode a 25 s period of time.
Transponder

Optional Pressure Provisional. Upon reception of the interrogation signal, two acoustic CRF replies
Measurement are transmitted through the acoustic channel.

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III.2 Getting Started with the MT9x2S

In this section, you follow a series of basic procedures that you have to go through in
order to put the MT9x2S transponder into service.

III.2.1 CHECKING THE PRESSURE R ELIEF VALVE

Make sure the pressure relief vent is in closed position and flush with the bottom end-cap.
If not it could indicate a pressure issue during previous operations. The unit should not be
deployed and must be investigated by qualified service personnel.
For safety reasons, the relief valve vents when the internal pressure of the housing is 1
bar ± 20 % greater than the external pressure.

III.2.2 CHARGING THE BATTERIES

It is recommended to fully charge the Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries of the
MT9x2S before putting them into service, to avoid wasting time if the battery becomes
discharged before the end of the in-water operations. Charging procedure is described in
the section V and could last up to 4 hours.

III.2.3 SETTING UP THE PARAMETERS OF THE MT9X2S

The MT9x2S unit is fully field-programmable. This is achieved by using the configuration
software. The programmable parameters to set are as following:
• Responder reply acoustic pulse (1 among 12 MFSK wide spectrum codes)
• Transponder interrogate channel (1 among 4 tonal interrogate channels)
• Transponder reply acoustic pulse (1 among 12 MFSK wide spectrum codes)
• Acoustic transmit power level
• Turn-around time (“Standard” mode or “Fast” mode)
• Blanking time

Refer to section IV for the MT9x2S configuration with the software.

The MT9x2S beacon is supplied, by default, with a plastic blue colored (except red)
sleeve mounted around the bottom end cap of the housing.

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III.2.4 SWITCHING ON THE MT9X2S

In order to switch ON the MT9x2S unit, the external 8-way SUBCONN external connector
must be covered while the transponder is submerged:

Figure 10 – Terminal plug used to switch ON the transponder

• Either by the ON/OFF terminal plug with locking sleeve supplied with each transponder
• Or by the in-line plug of an external cable (responder or power cable) with an
appropriate ON-OFF wiring (Pin 1 and Pin 5 must be connected together to switch
ON the unit)

The MT9x2S unit transmits an acoustic pulse once the power-up steps are safely
completed. If there is no acoustic transmission, remove the terminal plug, wait for 3 s and
re-plug it.
When operating in responder mode or from an external power supply, a SUBCONN
MCIL8M connector with an appropriate wiring must be used to cover the MT9x2S
bulkhead connector. The responder inputs must be connected to the trigger signal from
the GAPS system via the umbilical.

III.2.5 TESTING THE MT9X2S

A built-in test with the MT9x2S is available. The unit transmits an acoustic pulse once the
unit is switched ON and power-up steps are safely completed.

End of After a long period of storage, the internal storage capacitor associated to the acoustic
Storage power amplifier can be fully discharged and the acoustic power level transmitted may be
very low and inaudible. If it is the case, switch OFF the unit, wait for 3 s and repeat the
switch ON operation.

Responder Responder mode is tested by switching on the unit and sending a 10 ms wide and positive
Mode Test 5 V pulse on the responder input. The MT9x2S transmits then a CRF acoustic pulse.

Transponder Test the transponder mode by interrogating the unit at one of the tonal frequencies (19.5,
Mode Test 20, 20.5 or 21 kHz). One can use a frequency generator to send an interrogation signal
(acoustic or electrical with a wire loop around the transducer using capacitance coupling).
MT9x2S should transmit an acoustic pulse if the frequency of the interrogation pulse
matches the receiving channel set for the MT9x2S unit.

Emergency Test also the emergency power supply mode. If external power supply is switched OFF,
Power Supply the MT9x2S should revert to the internal battery supply and continue to reply either in
responder mode or transponder mode.

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III.3 Mounting Recommendations

MT9X2S UNIT IS FITTED WITH A POLYURETHANE CAGE FOR PROTECTING THE ACOUSTIC

TRANSDUCER. DO NOT USE THIS CAGE TO SECURE OR HOOK UP THE MT9X2S UNIT BY

RUNNING A ROPE THROUGH THE HOLES OF THE PROTECTIVE CAGE. THE CAGE IS NOT DESIGNED

TO WITHSTAND SUCH TENSION.

Transducer When fitted on an underwater vehicle or structure, the unit must be mounted with the
Position transducer in an upright position and there must be a clear line of sight between the
MT9x2S acoustic head and the GAPS antenna installed on the surface vessel. The
transducer must be located above the level of super-structure and any syntactic foam
buoyancy.

Fastening Use a hose clamp, rubber protection and jubilee clips to secure the MT9x2S unit.
It is also recommended to avoid transmitting the mechanical vibrations of the
vehicle/structure to the body of the acoustic head:
• With an integral transducer version of the MT9x2S, use a rubber protection around the
MT9x2S tube housing.
• With a remote transducer version of the MT9x2S, it is recommended to mount the
PET962 remote transducer on the vehicle structure by means of a fiber plate with no
mechanical bypass between the body of remote head and the vehicle structure.

Connections For connections to the MT9x2S Transponder / Responder refer to rules given in section
III.2.4 and external connector pin-out (see section I.4.5).

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III.4 Recovering the MT9x2S

If the unit is operational, it should not require any attention apart washing and charging
and should therefore not be dismantled. Proceed as follows:
Procedure
Step Action

1. Recover the unit on the ship’s deck.

2. Remove the plug from the MT9x2S external connector to switch OFF the unit.

3. Wash and clean the pressure housing with fresh water to remove salt, sand or silt
especially around the connectors. See section V (procedure PM01).

4. Recharge the internal batteries and then store the unit. See section V (procedure PM02).

5. End of procedure.

From time to time, it is recommended to soak the unit in fresh water for a long period of
time (say 24H) in order to dissolve salt and to diffuse from hard to reach areas such as
crevices / grooves around O-rings and between the mating parts.

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IV CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE

IV.1 Installing the Configuration Software on the Workstation

A piece of software is supplied with each MT9x2S beacon to assist with its configuration.
The program is stored on a CDROM and run on a PC-computer under Windows XP SP2
or Windows 7 operating systems. This PC should also be equipped with a USB plug.

This section concerns the software version 1.2.3 or newer.

Procedure
Step Action

1. Insert the provided CD-ROM into your PC workstation.

The installation procedure starts automatically.

2. Choose to install the driver for Windows 32 bits or Windows 64 bits depending on your
system configuration. If you are not sure, right click over the icon of My Computer and
select Properties in the menu that opens. The characteristics of your system are
displayed in the window that opens. Windows Vista and 7 operate with both
configurations. Windows XP operates only with 64 bits driver.

3. Follow the installation instructions until completion of the procedure.

4. End of procedure.

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IV.2 Connecting the Different Elements

IV.2.1 USING THE USB PORT OF THE PC
Connect the PC computer to the MT9x2S series Transponder as shown in Figure 11.

Figure 11 – Configuration of the MT9x2S

USB ports are sensitive to static electricity which can damage the electronic components.
In order to protect your PC, before connecting the cables and devices together, always
touch the metallic chassis of your PC. This will ground any static electricity discharge. Dry
weather conditions or walking across carpeted floors may cause you to acquire
electrostatic charges.
As a protection of your PC computer it is recommended to insert the supplied USB hub
device inside the USB PC port.
Procedure
Step Action

1. Connect the cable adapter (p/n 4452320) to the MT9x2S I/O port.

2. Plug the USB hub to the PC USB port.

3. Connect the USB cable to the connection box and to the USB hub.
The MT9x2S is ready to be configured. Refer to sections hereafter.

4. You can connect the AC/DC power supply otherwise the beacon is internal powered.

5. End of procedure.

If there is no communication between the PC and the MT9x2S, the batteries are probably
too weak and you need to plug the AC/DC power supply.

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IV.2.2 USING THE RS232 PORT OF THE PC

If the PC is equipped of a RS232 port then you can directly connect the MT9x2S to the PC
by using the responder cable (p/n 9300218). See Appendix B.5.

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IV.3 Configuration Software Overview

Main window Once the SOFTWARE is launched, by default the general status tab opens (see Figure
12). The main window is composed of several areas that are always present (independent
of tabs):
• Save to Beacon: once all configuration parameters have been set up, click on this
button to store this data into the transponder.
• Communication Port: manages the communication with the transponder
• Beacon Profile: allows to:
 Perform a factory reset
 Save the configuration on a disk
 Load the configuration from a disk
General This tab displays all specific identification data of the beacon (equipment, serial number,
Status Tab board revision number, FPGA revision number, pressure sensor option).

Figure 12 – MT9x2S General Status (Identification) tab

MT9x2 You have access to the configuration parameters by opening the MT9x2 Settings tab
Settings Tab (see Figure 13). The MT9x2 Settings tab is divided in the following areas:
• Responder: reply code
• Transponder: interrogation frequency and reply code
• Time: blanking time and turnaround time
• Acoustic: transmission power level and receiver gain
• Statistics: ping counter and maximum deployment pressure (bar)

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Figure 13 – MT9x2 Settings tab

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IV.4 List of the MT9x2S Configuration Parameters

The MT9x2S configuration parameters are listed and described in Table 9.

Table 9 – MT9x2S configuration parameters

MT9x2S Configuration

Parameters Values Unit Access

M-FSK codes 0 to 9 and 22 to 23 N.A. Internal

Interrogation frequency F1 = 19.5 F2 = 20.0 F3 = 20.5 F4 = 21.0 kHz Internal

Blanking Time From 0.8 to 10 by 0.1 step s Internal

(See Note below)

Turn-Around Time Standard mode: 20 to 200 by step of 5 ms Internal

(Transponder/Responder) Fast mode (Greater power consumption):
10.8 in Transponder mode

1.5 in Responder mode

Transmit Sound Level Low (185) / Medium (188) / High (191) dB re. 1µPa @ 1m Internal
The default factory set-up for Transponder and Responder modes is:

Table 10 – Default configuration parameters

Transmit Sound Power Level Medium (188 dB ref. 1 µPa @1 m)

Turn-around time (transponder / responder) 20 ms (Standard mode)

Interrogation Frequency 19.5 kHz

Transponder reply code Code 22

Responder reply code Code 22

Blanking time 0.8 s

The blanking time adjustment must take first into account the distance to the transponder
and secondly the possible reflections of the interrogating signal. A single interrogation can
generate several answers if the trigger signal is reflected on the seafloor or on the water
surface and if the blanking time is too short. The trigger signal must have completely
vanished before the end of the blanking time.

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IV.5 Configuring the MT9x2S

In this section, you configure the transponder with the help of the configuration software.
The configuration is achieved by the following steps:
• Communication between the workstation and the transponder, section IV.5.1
• Managing the configuration , section IV.5.2
• Editing the configuration parameters:
 The interrogation and answer frequency codes, section IV.5.3
 The blanking time and turnaround time, section IV.5.4
 The sound pressure level, section IV.5.5
• Checking the statistics, section IV.5.6

IV.5.1 SETTING THE C OMMUNICATION PORT

The first thing that you have to do to configure the MT9x2S remote control is to set up the
USB or RS232 communication port through which the data are going to be transferred.

Figure 14 – Selection of the Communication Port

Procedure
Step Action

1. Run the MT9x2S software.

2. Left click besides the current selected port and scroll the menu that appears.

3. Select the appropriate port number from the pull-down list in which the MT9x2S serial
link is connected.

The software looks automatically to connect itself to the MT9x2S. The MT9x2S Setting
tab is opened and the data fields are filled.

4. End of procedure.

To have access to the general status parameters, open the General Status tab.

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IV.5.2 M ANAGING THE CONFIGURATION

The user and the reference configurations are both stored inside the transponder.
Power ON When the transponder is powered, the user configuration is displayed on the software
interface.
A modification of the displayed configuration is immediately applied to the transponder
without having to click on Save to beacon.
The Save to beacon button writes the displayed configuration over the user configuration
(see section IV.5.2.3).
A Factory reset (see section IV.5.2.2) displays the reference configuration in the software
AND copies the reference configuration over the user configuration.
Power OFF The displayed configuration is lost if the power supply of the transponder is turned OFF
before the user clicks on the Save to beacon button.
The software maybe disconnected from the transponder without losing the displayed
configuration as long as the power supply of the transponder remains.

IV.5.2.1 Loading, Saving a Configuration from a Disk

Figure 15 – Loading and saving a configuration

Loading
Step Action

1. Click on the Load from Disk button.

A window opens allowing you to browse the folders.

2. Select the configuration file .profil that you want to load.

3. Click on Open.

The configuration is loaded. All parameters are displayed on the software window.

4. End of procedure.

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Saving
Step Action

1. Click on the Save to Disk button.

A window opens allowing you to browse the folders.

2. Select the folder in which you want to save the .profil file.

3. Click on OK.

The configuration is saved.

4. End of procedure.

IV.5.2.2 Resetting the Configuration

Figure 16 – Selection Factory reset

THE FACTORY RESET BUTTON SETS ALL THE BEACON SETTING PARAMETERS TO THE DEFAULT

FACTORY VALUES. IF SPECIFIC PARAMETERS HAVE BEEN ASKED, USE THE “.PROFIL” FILE OF THE

BEACON.

IV.5.2.3 Saving the Configuration to the Beacon

Figure 17 – Saving the configuration to the beacon

Click on the Save to Beacon button to store the configuration into the beacon itself. The
beacon is then ready to operate.

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IV.5.3 CONFIGURING THE INTERROGATION FREQUENCY CODES

Figure 18 – Selection of the reply codes and interrogation frequency

In Responder mode, click on the Reply Code dial at the value that you want to set up.
The pointer moves to the chosen value.
In Transponder mode:
• Click on the Interrogation Frequency dial on the proper value. The pointer moves to
the chosen value.
• Click on the Reply Code dial at the value that you want to set up. The pointer moves
to the chosen value.

Reply codes noted 0 to 9 are only detected by GAPS Ethernet.

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IV.5.4 CONFIGURING THE BLANKING TIME AND TURN AROUND TIME

Figure 19 – Selection of the Blanking Time and Turn Around Time

Procedure
Step Action

1. Set the tab on the Blanking Time ruler at the value to be selected (0.8 s minimum).

2. Set the tab on the Turn Around Time ruler at the value to be selected.

3. If you want to activate the Fast Turn Around mode, select the Fast Turn Around mode
checkbox. This mode requires more energy from the batteries.
Standard Turn Around Time ruler turns grey, inactive and the turnaround time is set to
1.5 ms fixed in responder mode and 10.8 ms in transponder mode.

4. End of procedure.

IV.5.5 CONFIGURING THE SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL

Three different sound pressure levels are available. Depending on your application, you
can adjust the amplitude of the acoustic transmission:
• Choose High (max range) 191 dB to optimize the range of the signal
• Choose Medium (average) 188 dB for average configuration (default setting)
• Choose Low (battery life) 185 dB to optimize the battery life
Click in the radio button corresponding to the sound pressure level of your choice. The
choice of the sound pressure depends of the range to be reached and/or the noise level of
the current environment.

USE THE MEDIUM (188 DB) RATHER THAN THE HIGH (191 DB) TRANSMIT POWER TO ENSURE THE
INTEGRITY OF THE TRANSDUCER.

Figure 20 – Selection of the Acoustic Transmit Power

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IV.5.6 COMPUTING STATISTICS

Figure 21 – Statistics on Ping Counter and Pressure

Ping Counter It is the counter of the transmitted pulses in steps of a hundred since the previous reset.
Click on Reset after a full recharge of the transponder batteries.
Max Pressure This field displays the maximum pressure reached by the transponder during in-water
operation (provisional and operating only when the pressure sensor option is present).
Click on Reset at the beginning of operation to clear the pressure field.

IV.5.7 USING THE C OMMAND UTILITY TOOL

Press the F1 key to open the Command Utility window as follows:

Figure 22 – Command Utility window

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IV.5.7.1 Displaying the Current Voltage

The Diagnostic button is used to control the voltage of the battery with the software.
If you click again, the voltage is measured and displayed again.
Procedure
Step Action

1. Click on the Diagnostic.

The MT9x2S returns the current battery voltage (in V) when the transponder is not being
charged or the charging voltage (in V) when the charger is connected and is externally
powered.

2. Press OK to close the Command Utility window.

3. End of procedure.

IV.5.7.2 Displaying the Current Pressure (Optional)

• The Telemetry button is provisional for monitoring the pressure data if the MT9
transponder is equipped of a pressure sensor. The Telemetry button is disabled
(grayed) if there is no pressure sensor.
• Click on the Telemetry button to display the pressure measurement in the Command
Utility window.

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V MAINTENANCE

There are two preventive maintenance operations to perform on a regular basis with the
MT9x2S:

PM01: Cleaning the MT9x2S

PM02: Charging battery of the MT9x2S

PM03: Releasing possible inner pressure inside the MT9x2S

ELECTRONIC DEVICES CAN BE DESTROYED BY STATIC ELECTRICITY. IT IS ESSENTIAL THEREFORE

THAT THE SERVICE ENGINEERS ARE FULLY AWARE OF THE PROTECTIONS AGAINST STATIC

ELECTRICITY.

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System: MT9x2S Preventive Maintenance

Sub-system: Pressure Housing Reference: PM01 Page: 1/1

Subject: Cleaning the MT9x2S Periodicity: after each recovery

Duration: 5 minutes

Equipment Fresh water, liquid soap for the transducer cap

Precaution Do not use alcohol or petrol-based solvents on the neoprene casing
Preliminary None
Steps

Procedure
Step Action

1. Thoroughly flush the whole unit with seawater especially around the external connector
and the transducer. During the retrieval operation, it may happen that the unit has been
collecting foreign particles (sand, mud...).

2. When all foreign particles have been removed, the unit should be thoroughly soaked for
a few hours in warm fresh water to dissolve salt.

3. Visually inspect the acoustic transducer for proper condition.

4. Wash the acoustic head with soapy water. If fatty matters or deposits are present (mud),
the neoprene boot should always be free of grease prior to immersion. Do not use
alcohol or petroleum based solvents.

5. Lubricate sparingly the external connector(s) with MOLYKOTE 44 grease or LOCTITE

8021 in spray can, as recommended by the manufacturer (SUBCONN). Refer to
SUBCONN handling procedure at Web site: http://www.subconn.com.

6. End of procedure.

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System: MT9x2S Preventive Maintenance

Sub-system: Pressure Housing Reference: PM02 Page: 1/2

Subject: Charging battery of MT9x2S Periodicity: after each recovery

Duration: up to 4 hours for a full cycle

PERFORM THE CHARGING OF THE BATTERIES IN AN OPEN ENVIRONMENT OR ENSURE A GOOD

VENTILATION OF THE AREA.

MAKE SURE THAT NO OPEN FIRES, SPARKS OR SMOKING TAKES PLACE NEARBY THE

TRANSPONDER.

MAKE SURE THE AIR TEMPERATURE OF THE AREA IS BETWEEN 10 AND 40°C.
THE BATTERY MANUFACTURER ENSURES THAT NO GAS IS VENTED BY THE BATTERIES. HOWEVER,
IN CASE OF MAJOR BATTERY FAILURE, IT IS RECOMMANDED TO KEEP CLEAR FROM THE

TRANSPONDER ENDCAP MAIN AXIS DURING CHARGING.

Equipment AC/DC power supply (output 24 V, 1.5 A) and cable adapter (p/n 4452320) with its
connection box

Preliminary None
Steps

Figure 23 – Charging connections for the MT9x2S

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System: MT9x2S Preventive Maintenance

Sub-system: Pressure Housing Reference: PM02 Page: 2/2

Subject: Charging the Battery of MT9x2S Periodicity: after each recovery

Duration: up to 4 hours

Procedure
Step Action

1. Proceed with PM03 to release a possible pressure that could have been accumulated
inside the pressure housing.

2. Plug the charger power supply to the main power supply (110 V – 220 V) and to the
connection box of the cable adaptor (p/n 4452320).

The upper LED of the connection box turns green.

3. Plug the cable adaptor to the MT9x2S.

4. Plug the AC/DC power adapter to the connection box.

The lower LED turns orange. It indicates that- the recharge of NiMH batteries is in
progress.

5. Wait until the orange LED turns OFF. It can take approximately up to four hours.

The batteries of the MT9x2S are charged.

6. Remove the AC power from power supply and then unplug the cable adaptor from the
MT9x2S unit.

The green LED of the connection box turns OFF.

7. Proceed with PM03 to release the gases that might have been generated during the
charging process.

8. End of procedure.

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System: MT9x2S Preventive Maintenance

Sub-system: Pressure Vent Reference: PM03 Page: 1/1

Subject: Releasing possible inner pressure Periodicity: after and before each charging procedure
inside the MT9x2S
Duration: 30 seconds

Equipment One M2.5 screw

Preliminary None
Steps
Procedure
Step Action

1. Screw the M2.5 screw in the pressure vent.

2. With your fingers, pull the screw a few millimeters in your direction to open the vent and
free the possible inner over pressure.

3. Release the screw and remove the screw from the vent.

There is no more over pressure inside the housing.

4. End of procedure.

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iXBlue CONTACT - SUPPORT 24/7 CUSTOMER SUPPORT HELPLINE

FOR NON-EMERGENCY SUPPORT:

support@ixblue.com

FOR GENUINE EMERGENCIES ONLY:

North America / NORAM

+1 888-600-7573 Extension 2

Europe Middle-East Africa Latin-America / EMEA-LATAM

+33 1 30 08 98 98

Asia Pacific / APAC

+65 6747 7027

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iXBlue CONTACT - SALES

North America / NORAM

+1 888-600-7573

iXBlue Inc Boston US

11 Erie Drive, Natick, MA 01760, United States

Office: Houston, USA

Europe Middle-East Africa Latin-America / EMEA-LATAM

+33 1 30 08 88 88

iXBlue SAS Marly France

52 avenue de l’Europe Marly le Roi, 78160, France

Offices: Dubai, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, UK, Italy

Asia Pacific / APAC

+65 6747 4912

iXBlue Pte Limited Singapore

15A Changi Business Park Central 1#04-02 Eightrium Singapore 486035

Offices: Australia, China, India

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Appendices
A. PRINCIPLE OF FAST CHARGING MT9X2S TRANSPONDERS

The fast charge is controlled by electronics inside the MT9x2S housing which
automatically senses the presence of DC adapter and battery insertion or removal.
Charging process is also gated by minimum (+5°C) and maximum (40°C) temperature
limits.
The fast charger monitors the voltage and temperature parameters of the battery pack.
Heavily discharged batteries are first precharged with a trickle current.
After the precharge state, the fast charging (at 2.8 A current) begins. The charger
controller can simultaneously use the following fast charge termination techniques.
• -ΔV change of voltage indicated that the pack is approaching the full charge.
• Rate of temperature rise (ΔT/Δt) with time
• A time limit is exceeded (3 hours)
If necessary a top-off charge is automatically applied at a trickle current to the NiMH pack
after the fast charging is completed.

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B. MECHANICAL DRAWINGS

B.1 Technical Label

B.2 References

Mechanical drawing of the remote transducer PET962S See section B.3 940 0067 (Page 1/1)
Interconnection cable of the remote transducer PET962S See section B.4 930 0212

Responder cable for MT912S See section B.5 930 0218

Overall dimensions of the MT912S-R See section B.6 445 9100 (Page 1/2)
Main assembly drawing of the MT912S-R See section B.6 445 9100 (Page 2/2)
Overall dimensions of the MT912S/HD-R: See section B.7 445 9110 (Page 1/2)
Main assembly drawing of the MT912S/HD-R: See section B.7 445 9110 (Page 2/2)
Overall dimensions of the MT932S-R See section B.8 445 9300 (Page 1/2)
Main assembly drawing of the MT932S-R See section B.8 445 9300 (Page 2/2)
Overall dimensions of the MT932S/HD-R: See section B.9 445 9310 (Page 1/2)
Main assembly drawing of the MT932S/HD-R: See section B.9 445 9310 (Page 2/2)

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B.3 Transducer PET 962S (P/N 940 0067)

Figure 24 – SUBCONN BH3M wiring

Figure 25 – PET962S mechanical drawing

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B.4 Cable for Remote Transducer (SUBCONN Connectors)

Type of Cable 2-core cable with common shield, rated voltage 1,000 VRMS recommended (600 VRMS
acceptable for short transmission time).
Length 3m
Reference p/n: 930 0212

Figure 26 – Wiring of the cable for the remote transducer

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B.5 Responder Cable for MT9x2S

Type of Cable AXON ZN2019-MSTMR7 (iXBlue ref.: CA7-9EP) 7 twisted core cable with common shield
Reference p/n: 9300218

1 - Brown Ground (Supply and RS232)

2 - Red External supply

3 - Grey (–) Responder

4 - Yellow (+) Responder

5- connected to pin 1 (ON/OFF function)
6- Tx – RS232

Male Face View 7- Rx – RS232

8- Not connected

SUBCONN Micro series Plug (8 pin Male)

Mating Connector: MCOM8M plug, MCOMB boot and 2140U compound
Locking sleeve: MCDLSF
Red /+24v
Brown / Gnd
Yellow / (+) Responder
Grey / (-) Responder

3m RS232

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B.6 Mechanical Drawing of MT912S–R

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B.7 Mechanical Drawing of MT912S/HD-R

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B.8 Mechanical Drawing of MT932S–R

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B.9 Mechanical Drawing of MT932S/HD–R

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