Professional Documents
Culture Documents
i-konIII Blaster3000 MAN F1-18-03 D02-06en 20200113
i-konIII Blaster3000 MAN F1-18-03 D02-06en 20200113
i-konIII Blaster3000 MAN F1-18-03 D02-06en 20200113
Contents
IMPORTANT
READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE.
KEEP FOR FURTHER REFERENCE.
User The user is a blaster-in-charge or a shotfirer who has the license to use
explosives according to regional requirements. The user can also be an
assistant who is under the direct supervision of a shotfirer.
Users have the following qualifications:
Technical training and experience in blasting procedures.
Certificate of a successful training by Orica authorized trainers in the
use of the specific firing equipment.
Familiarity with the relevant technical terms and regulations.
Familiarity with the latest manuals and the safety instructions
contained therein.
Ability to evaluate assigned tasks, identify potential hazards and take
appropriate safety precautions.
Electromagnetic disturbance
DANGER
Do NOT do this or that.
Configurations:
Standalone Blaster
- The Blaster 3000 configured as <Single> Blaster controls directly
connected Loggers via firing cable.
Synchronized Blasters
- A Blaster 3000 configured as <Sync Master> controls other
Blasters that are configured as <Sync Slaves>.
- <Sync Master> and <Sync Slave> Blasters are connected to the
same sync cable.
- Each Blaster is connected to Loggers with detonators.
Remote-controlled Blasters
- A Blaster 3000 set up as <Controller> controls other <Remote>
Blasters via radio, LAN, WiFi, analog phone or Leaky Feeder
communication.
- <Remote> Blasters can have <Sync Slave> Blasters connected
via sync cable.
- Each Blaster is connected to Loggers with detonators.
Repeater in surface applications
- A Blaster 3000 set up as <Repeater> increases the radio
distance to <Remote> Blasters.
- A <Repeater> is NOT connected to Loggers or detonators.
- A <Repeater> does not initiate a detonator.
The manufacturer and supplier are not liable for damage that results
from improper use. The user alone assumes all associated risks.
1.8. Training
Electronic detonators differ dramatically from conventional electric or
non-electric detonators. Orica's i-kon™II and i-kon™III electronic
detonators and equipment must not be used without appropriate
training.
To arrange for training, please contact your regional Orica service office.
⇒ See chapter Orica Service Offices, page 206.
Controller:
To prevent hazards, follow this chronological order:
Evacuate and guard the blasting area.
Switch on the Controller and wait until it passes its self-test.
Then you can start the blasting sequence.
As long as you have not pressed the FIRE button, you can abort the
blasting sequence.
Remove the dongle at the Blaster and all detonators immediately
return to a safe voltage level.
It is also safe to disconnect the firing cable between the Blaster and
the Loggers, or to switch off the Blaster. The Loggers switch off after
a short timeout and the detonators discharge safely.
i-kon™ Hardware:
i-kon™II and i-kon™III electronic detonators
Logger (I), device for logging and testing 200 detonators that can be
initiated via Blaster 400 and Blaster 3000
Logger II, device for logging and testing 500 detonators that can be
initiated via Blaster 3000
Blaster 400, device to initiate 400 detonators
Blaster 3000, device to initiate 3000 detonators
- 7 units Blaster 3000 can be combined to initiate up to 21000
detonators
Software:
SHOTPlus™ Suite, blast design program
Resistance and leakage current can cause a voltage drop that exceeds
the system limits.
The following limits are valid under ideal conditions and no leakage:
Table 3 Blaster 3000 limits
Logger types Logger I version 5.22e or later
Logger II version 1-5-24 or later
eDev™II Blast Box 610C 5.04a or later.
Loggers Up to 12 Loggers per Blaster
Detonators Up to 3000 detonators per Blaster
Max. delay time = 30000 ms
Harness wire per Resistance < 280 Ω
Logger ≈ 2000 m (=1.24 mi) standard harness wire
Blasters Up to 7 Blasters in one blast
= max. 21000 detonators
Output voltage 24 V
Voltage drop < 4 V on the firing line
Loggers must be supplied with 20 V.
Remote control One Controller, 6 Remotes, 6 Repeaters
Radio distance under ideal conditions when
there are no obstacles within a radius of 8 m
(24ft.) around the line of sight between the
antennas.
Distance < 2.5 km (1.6 miles)
Synchronized blast One Master, 6 synchronized Blasters
Sync cable < 70 Ω ≈ 500 m (=1600 ft) standard
harness wire
Detonator properties:
Programmable up to 30000 ms
Precision as coefficient of variation: 0.005%
Output strength:
- Equivalent to a reference detonator #3 according to the
European standard EN13763-15
- Equivalent to a No.8 blasting cap according to the definition of
"blasting agent", ATF Federal Explosives Law and Regulations,
§555.11 Meaning of terms
Storage life is up to 2 years in an approved magazine.
System limits:
Up to 12 units eDev™II Blast Box 610C with a total of 3000
detonators may be connected to one Blaster.
Up to 800 detonators per Blast Box.
NEVER operate units of eDev™ II Blast Box 610C and i-kon™
Loggers together on the same Blaster.
- These different units can create communication problems that
can interrupt the blasting sequence.
- In the worst case, a Logger or Blast Box cannot be detected.
FIRE characteristics:
<Remote> Blasters fire depending on the blasting mode chosen in
the <Controller>: one after the other (automatically), nearly at the
same time (concurrent), or manually chosen.
In a remote group, consisting of a <Remote> Blaster and connected
<Sync Slave> Blasters, the Blasters fire at the same time.
System configuration:
The controlling Blaster <Controller> is installed at the central firing
office.
Up to 6 <Remote> Blasters (with or without <Sync-Slave> Blasters)
are installed near the Loggers and their detonator networks.
The following communication methods are available:
- Local Area Network (LAN)
- Wireless network (Wi-Fi, WLAN)
- Leaky Feeder network
- Analog phone
If the signal strength is not good enough, you can include a second access
point.
Figure 14 Configuration with a second access point
① <Controller>
② Wi-Fi access point (AP) ④ <Remote> Blaster, Wi-Fi setting
③ Wi-Fi access point (AP) ⑤ <Remote> Blaster, Wi-Fi setting
Example:
The <Controller> ① can be connected to the access point ② of the
wireless network via LAN (dotted line) or Wi-Fi.
The <Remote> Blaster ③ is connected via LAN.
The <Sync Slave> Blaster ④ is connected via sync cable to the
<Remote> Blaster ③.
The second access point ⑤ is situated for example somewhere in
the mine where it has a connection the first access point ②.
The <Remote> Blasters ⑥ and ⑦ are connected via Wi-Fi.
The <Sync Slave> Blaster ⑧ is connected via sync cable to the
<Remote> Blaster ⑦.
2.6. Accessories
2.6.1. Product Overview
Figure 16 Blaster 3000 overview and connections
NOTICE
If you connect to the wrong terminals, Blasting is not possible!
Connect Loggers via the black output terminals.
Connect slave Blasters via the yellow sync terminals.
Figure 17 Dongles
Master Dongle
The red marked Master Dongle is needed to control the blasting
sequence and to fire the blast.
You need only one red Master Dongle in a blast.
Remote Dongle
The blue Remote Dongle is programmable and holds the access data of
a <Remote> Blaster.
You need a Remote Dongle for each <Remote> Blaster in the blast.
After the <Remote> Blaster is activated, it writes its access codes on
the blue Remote Dongle.
You must physically carry the Remote Dongle to the <Controller> to
transfer the access codes.
You cannot fire a blast with a blue Remote Dongle.
When you use multiple Remote Blasters in one blast, avoid mixing up
the Remote Dongles.
Label each Remote Dongle with the Blaster ID.
2.6.4. Antenna
When blasting remote, then connect the supplied portable antenna to the
antenna socket on the case.
NOTICE
The Blaster will not work with the wrong antenna!
Only use the delivered antenna with the Blaster.
Antenna must meet the allowed frequency range.
Delete a character
Specification:
Mains power source (90 – 230 V, 40 – 60 Hz)
When the self-test is passed, the display shows the allowed detonators.
Figure 21 Allowed detonators
If you are unsure, whether you have already prepared a Blaster for
blasting, then check the mode as follows.
Switch on the Blaster.
If the screen shows the start menu, the Blaster is not prepared.
If the Blaster was prepared for blasting, it goes into standby mode.
Figure 22 Status Standby
Bxx: Standby
<Bxx>, Blaster ID
To abort the standby mode, press [ABORT].
Display shows the start menu.
To use the current mode, do NOT touch any key.
Blaster's mode is checked.
Table 8 Functions
[MENU] Enters the main menu to configure and test the Blaster, or
check the reports.
See chapter The Main Menu, page 43.
[INFO] Displays the Blaster's parameters.
See chapter Information about the Settings, page 45.
[OK] Starts the blasting sequence.
See chapter Blasting, page 70.
To switch off the device, turn the power key to the left.
Table 9 Navigation
[▲] or [▼] Select an item in the menu.
[ENTER] Enter the selected function.
[BACK] Quit and return to the previous function.
“…” The item offers a submenu.
Use the function key [F#1] = [BACK], to return to the previous menu.
Setup Menu
Blaster Interface ... System ...
If the color changes to yellow or red, you must charge the device.
To see the percentage of the battery level, choose [INFO].
⇒ For more information, see chapter Charging the Device, page 200.
The other data depends on the remote interface setting of the Blaster.
For the description of the parameter, see chapter Interface Settings,
page 55.
Properties:
An alias can have up to 5 letters.
[MENU ► Alias]
A virtual keyboard appears on screen, and the current alias is
displayed in the top row.
For information on how to enter a name, please refer to the section
Using the virtual Keyboard, page 47.
If you blast multiple sites that are dependent on each other, and you
want to use the <Automatic> blasting mode, then verify:
The Blaster that must fire first, needs a lower Blaster ID number.
If a Blaster aborts, then you must abort dependent Blasters
manually.
<Controller> ID = 1
<Remote> ID = 2
<Sync Slave> ID = 3
<Sync Slave> ID = 4
<Remote> ID = 6
<Sync Slave> ID = 7
Background:
To start the blasting sequence, the <Controller> addresses the
Blasters in the order of their Blaster ID number.
To address <Sync Slave> Blasters that are connected to a
<Remote> Blaster, the <Controller> must address the <Remote>
Blaster first as gateway.
*Connection methods: Surface radio, LAN, Wi-Fi (wireless LAN), analog phone, Leaky
Feeder
Risk of Misfires
You must expect misfires in the muck pile when you allow a high
number of errors when blasting.
Use <None> or a low number of errors.
<Unlimited> or high numbers are not recommended.
Avoid Globals!
Because the position of the Globals is unknown, a delay time that fits to
the blast plan cannot be assigned. Therefore, Globals endanger the
success of the blast by flyrock, vibration or misfires in the muck pile.
You can decide to abort or continue the blasting sequence when Globals
(unlogged detonators) are detected on a Logger II.
For Satel modems, you can configure the frequency and the power.
<Enabled>
- <Yes>, interface is active.
- <No>, another interface is currently active.
<Frequency>, operation frequency
Two separate frequency parameters are available, if the frequencies
to receive and transmit are differently defined in the factory settings.
<TX Power>, transmission power, default value "1000 mW", values
depend on the license.
<Enabled>
- <Yes>, interface is active.
- <No>, another interface is currently active.
<Network Address>, <0>
<Channel>,
- 2-modem configuration: <Controller> = <1>, <Remote> = <2>
- 3-modem configuration: <Controller> = <Remote> = <1>
<Transmit Power>, depends on the mine site
<RSSI Trip>, threshold to suppress bad signals (noise)
<No. of LF routers>,
- <0> in 2-modem configuration
- <1> in 3-modem configuration
Figure 40 Good and bad signals => RSSI Trip
<Enabled>
- <Yes>, interface is active.
- <No>, another interface is currently active.
<Ring count>, Number of rings until the modem picks up the line.
<Ring count>:
When the Blasters is connected to an analog telephone line that also
operates a normal telephone, then adjust the <Ring count> to a value
greater than 4. The Blaster will take the call at the 4th ring, and allow users
to accept the call before.
<Enabled>
- <Yes>, interface is active.
- <No>, another interface is currently active.
<APN>, name of the gateway
<Access Number>, phone number
<Username>,
<Password>, password for the chosen network
<Network Type>, choose mobile network type
- <auto>:
- <2G>, <3G>, <4G>:
Select the setting, press [EDIT].
LTE modem is adjusted.
<Enabled>
- <Yes>, interface is active.
- <No>, another interface is currently active.
<IP Address>, internet protocol address of the Blaster
<Subnet Mask>, part of the IP address belonging to the network
<Gateway>, network address of the gateway
<Enabled>
- <Yes>, interface is active.
- <No>, another interface is currently active.
<Detect WLANs>, searches for wireless networks
<SSID>, Name of the chosen network
<Password>, Password for the chosen network
<DHCP Client>
- <On>: The modem connects automatically to the chosen network
and the settings are displayed.
- <Off>: You need to enter the settings manually.
<IP Address>, Internet protocol address of the Blaster
<Subnet mask>, Part of the IP address belonging to the network
<Gateway>, network address of the gateway
The communication can be unreliable, when too much signals run over
the sync cable:
Verify that a termination resistor is activated ONLY on two
Blasters.
Verify that there are no open ends, which reflect the signal.
Language files are stored in the folder "locale" and named as follows:
arbb_xx_YY.mo
Be sure to remember the new PIN. Otherwise, you cannot enter the
setup menu.
The default PIN is "1111".
Prerequisites:
Blaster is fully charged or connected to the power supply.
Update file is stored in the root directory of a USB storage device.
The file is named "B3000__xx_yy_zz.mc3", where "xx_yy_zz" is the
firmware version.
4. Blasting
4.1. Prepare for Blasting
The diagram shows the preparation of Loggers and Blasters.
Figure 54 Blast preparation overview
Start blasting
sequence
Evacuate the blast sites
Controlling Blaster
(Single, Sync Master, Controller)
• Switch on, verify self-test
• Connect Loggers, Sync Slaves
Background color:
blue: preparation yellow: user decisions white: system checks
orange: aborts light red: important decisions red: evacuate, detonate
The following list gives instructions to avoid the most common reasons for
misfires:
AVOID MISFIRES
An intermittent connection can result in misfires!
NEVER use blasting equipment that has loose or missing terminals.
ALWAYS run the wires to minimize the chances of wire damage due
to vehicles, people or landslide.
ALWAYS verify that wires are securely connected to the output
terminals.
ALWAYS verify that extended wires are properly joined and insulated.
ALWAYS secure the firing cable.
When preparing 2 or more blast sites that are close to each other,
note the following to prevent misfires:
If the blast sites depend on each other, check what happens if one
Blaster fails to initiate its detonators.
Flyrock from one site can damage the wiring of the other site.
An Electro-Magnetic Pulse (EMP) generated in the first blast can
interfere with the reception of the fire command of the second blast.
Possible results: Blaster aborts or misfires in the muck pile.
Dependent blast Sometimes the success of a blast ② depends on the success of the blast
sites on another site ①. These blasts are dependent, because if blast ① does
not fire, the muck pile of blast ② will come to rest on top of the aborted
blast ③.
Figure 55 Example of dependent blast sites
NEVER use the <Concurrent> mode if the blast sites depend on each
other or are too close to each other.
Prevent misfires:
Connect all detonator circuits to the same Blaster.
Connect the Blasters to fire synchronously.
Synchronous Blasters abort if one Blaster has serious errors.
Use the <manual> blasting mode.
Use a spare Logger (Master Logger) at the position of the Blaster, to test
the communication to the other Loggers via firing cable.
Tasks of the tests:
Displays the IDs of the Loggers that have responded after the query.
Checks the firing cable for leakage and short circuit.
Figure 56 Test communication with a Master Logger
+ Switch all Loggers that are to be tested into the test mode.
When you switch off the Master Logger, it sends a signal to the other
Loggers to switch off, too.
Use a spare Logger (Master Logger) at the position of the Blaster, to test
the communication to the other Loggers.
The Master Logger provides the following tests:
Verifies that Logger IDs are not used twice.
Checks the connection of the Loggers to the firing cable.
Checks the communication on the firing cable.
Checks the firing cable for leakage and short circuit.
Tests the detonators.
Searches for Globals.
Figure 57 Test the communication with a Master Logger
System test:
Connect the Loggers in parallel to the firing cable.
Connect the firing cable to the output terminals of the Master
Logger.
In the Master Logger, choose [Test ► System Test] to test all
Loggers.
Choose [ALL DETS] to test all detonators.
If errors occur, then solve the problems.
When the Blaster passes its self-test, then the output terminals are
powerless and short-circuited.
You can use harness wire as firing cable to connect the Loggers to the
Blaster.
Pay attention when you connect harness wire to the output terminals:
Check the electrical connection.
WARNING – Risk of Misfire
Check that the output clamp does NOT cut the wire when
tightened.
The following figure shows two methods that are both valid, but need some
care.
Figure 61 Connect harness wire
Check that you do NOT CUT the wire when you tighten the clamp
TO ABORT BLASTING
Pull the Master Dongle.
Optional: Press the [ABORT] button.
Wait at least 5 minutes before entering the blasting site.
Single:
⇒ Blasting with a Single Blaster, page 82.
Synchronized:
⇒ Blasting with synchronized Blasters, page 111.
Remote-controlled:
⇒ Blasting with Remote-Controlled Blasters, page 154.
Blast setup is prepared as shown in the figure below, but the firing
cable is not yet connected.
Blaster is positioned in a safe location.
Blasting area is evacuated.
NO dongle is inserted into the Blaster's dongle port.
• Switch on Blaster
• Connect Loggers via firing cable
Stage 1
Press [OK] to initialize Initialize
Establish communication
Blaster overview: no
User abort
Number Loggers + dets correct?
yes
Stage 2
no Programming dets
Insert Master dongle
yes
yes no
Confirm
Errors? User abort
errors?
no yes
Blaster overview: no
Number Loggers + dets correct?
yes
Stage 3
no FIRE
User abort Press [FIRE]
yes
Prerequisites:
Switch on the Blaster or return to the start menu.
Depending on the Blaster's mode, follow the instructions on the
screen.
Figure 66 Start menu
If the Blaster detects Globals, detonators that are not logged, it displays
an error or a warning, see chapter Globals Detected, page 95.
⇒ Continue in stage 3.
Prerequisites:
No errors have occurred during the programming sequence.
Or, the confirmed errors do not endanger the safety or success of the
blast.
Blaster status:
<Ready to Fire> – no detonator errors
<Ready to Fire with Errors> – there are detonator errors
[FIRE] buttons flash accompanied by beeps. The beep switches off after
30 seconds and restarts for the last minute of the countdown.
To check Loggers and detonators, select a Blaster and press
[OVERVIEW]. Continue in chapter Blaster Overview after
Programming in Stage 2, page 94.
When everything is correct, then continue on the next page.
The Blaster verifies that the first and the last detonator on each
harness circuit are still responding.
If an error occurs, the Blaster aborts the blast, see section Abort
after the FIRE Command, page 101.
When no error occurs, the Blaster sends the fire command, and the
detonators initiate according to their delay time.
BANG
In stage 1, the detonator status and leakage current are not available,
because there has not been a communication with the detonators.
2. To exclude a Logger from the blast, select the Logger and press
[DEACTIVATE].
3. If the wrong Logger is deactivated, press [REACTIVATE].
4. When the list is correct, press [BACK].
A warning appears that you deactivated a Logger.
Figure 76 Warning
5.2.1. Warnings
A WARNING has an orange border. A warning can point to a condition
that causes misfires!
Figure 77 Example for a warning
The overview shows the error on the Blaster that found the Globals.
“(+2)”, the estimated number of Globals is shown in brackets.
“N/A”, no data on Globals if the firmware of the Logger does not
support the detection of Globals.
Press [OK] to confirm the error and exit.
The Blaster that has the Globals aborts. Blasters connected via sync
cable abort together.
Globals found
Errors
The button [OK] is not visible and you cannot continue because there
are unconfirmed errors.
Press [DETAIL], check and confirm each detonator error.
Continue If the detonators that have errors do not endanger the success of the blast,
then you can continue:
The button [CONFIRM] is only visible on errors that are not yet
confirmed.
2. Press [BACK] to return to the previous overview.
Figure 89 Blaster details, errors are confirmed
Single:
⇒ Stage 3: Initiate the Blast, page 88.
Synchronized:
⇒ Stage 3: Initiate the Blast, page 125.
Remote-controlled:
⇒ Stage 3: Initiate the Blast, page 173.
Figure 91 Error
Error
<Det check failed>, in this example, the check has failed, where the
first and the last detonator are tested.
2. Press [DETAIL] to check the reason of the abort.
Figure 93 Example: No harness
Logger ID: 1
...
Detonators: 200 Errors: 2
DET DET-ID DELAY ERROR
1 EA5783E8 0 Faulty det
10 EA5783EA 15 No reply
Logger ID: 2
...
At this stage, the report does not contain data of good detonators.
All Blasters upload the Logger report in parallel. A Blaster needs about
1 minute to upload data of 200 detonators.
Uploading the blast reports takes about 4 minutes for 2400 detonators
on one Blaster.
Result The display lists all Blasters, their status, date and time.
Figure 100 Firing results
⇒ For information on the reports and the vibration diagram, see chapter
Check the Blast Report, page 108.
When you pull the Master Dongle on the controlling Blaster <Controller>,
then all <Sync Slave> Blasters and <Remote> Blasters receive a signal to
abort. The output terminals on each Blaster connect and no voltage is
provided to the firing cable. Therefore, it is not necessary to disconnect
the firing cable.
DANGER
Wait at least 5 minutes before re-entering blasting area.
1. [MENU ► Reports]
2. Select the report and press [VIBRATION].
Figure 103 Vibration overview
3. If the report includes results from other Blasters, you can use
[PREVIOUS] and [NEXT] to see all reports.
Blast is verified.
Reports are stored in the root directory of the USB storage as a text file
and in an xml-folder. When vibration monitoring is activated, an
additional graphic is added.
Contents:
① Blast Summary: Total number of Blasters, detonators and
detonator errors
② Blast Setup: Blaster ID and Blaster mode
③ A controlling Blaster also lists lower-ranking Blasters
④ Blast Details: Blaster ID, serial number, firmware version
- <Fired at>, date and time when the FIRE command was issued
- <Aborted at>, if a blast was aborted
- Blaster status, number of Loggers and detonators, number of
detonator errors, battery level, current
- Logger IDs, number of detonators, number of errors on each
Logger
- Estimated number of Globals
⑤ List of all detonators with ID, delay time and status is only
included when the Logger report is uploaded from the Loggers.
⑥ <About Blaster 3000>: software and hardware identification
If you connect more than 2 Blaster 3000 units via sync cable, then check
the setting of the termination resistor.
In the following examples, the Blasters are connected by more than one
sync cable. Signals are reflected at open ends and at each connection of
the sync cable, causing interference.
Figure 106 NOT recommended setup
The communication can be unreliable, when too much signals run over
the sync cable:
Verify that a termination resistor is activated ONLY on two
Blasters.
Verify that there are no open ends, which reflect the signal.
<Sync Master>:
• Switch on
• Connect Loggers
• Connect <Sync Slaves>
Stage 1
• Press [OK] to initialize Initialize
• Enter number<Sync Slaves> Establish communication
• Wake up <Sync Slaves>
Blaster overview: no
User abort
Number Loggers + dets correct?
yes
Stage 2
Programming dets
no
Insert Master dongle
yes
yes
Programming errors? Confirm Errors? User abort
no
no yes
Blaster overview: no
Number Loggers + dets correct?
yes
Stage 3
no FIRE
User abort Press [FIRE]?
yes
Choose:
[NO] You fire the blast within the next 12 hours.
Blaster goes into standby mode.
[YES] You fire the blast later than 12 hours.
Blaster goes into sleep mode, and switches off to save
battery power.
This mode requires a special wakeup call by the controlling
Blaster and the <Sync Slave> needs some time to start.
The controlling <Sync Master> is ready to program the detonators and the
message appears to insert the Master Dongle.
Figure 117 Insert Master Dongle
4. If there are errors, you need to confirm the remaining errors of each
Blaster.
Blaster status:
<Ready to Fire> – no detonator errors
<Ready to Fire with Errors> – there are detonator errors
[FIRE] buttons flash accompanied by beeps. The beep switches off after
30 seconds and restarts for the last minute of the countdown.
To check Loggers and detonators, select a Blaster and press
[OVERVIEW]. Continue in chapter Blaster Overview after
Programming in Stage 2, page 94.
When everything is correct, then continue on the next page.
The Blaster verifies that the first and the last detonator on each
harness circuit are still responding.
If an error occurs, the Blaster aborts the blast, see section Abort
after the FIRE Command, page 101.
When no error occurs, the Blaster sends the fire command, and the
detonators initiate according to their delay time.
BANG
After the Blasters are installed in their final blasting location, you should
test the communication.
We recommend testing the signal strength some time before the blast.
If necessary, you have enough time to search for a place where the
signal strength is better.
Because tests run on a low, safe voltage level, personnel can work on
the blast site.
► [MENU ► Testing]
Figure 126 Test menu
Table 17 Functions
Function Description
<Transmit test signals> Transmit the signals and check the communication.
Choose to test all receivers, or just 1 receiver.
Prerequisite:
All receivers are ready to receive signals.
<Receive test signals> Receiver is ready to receive signals.
<Interface test> Checks if the modem processes ist parameters
properly.
When you want to perform the test from the location of the <Controller>,
then use the following functions:
- <Remote> is the receiver, and uses [Receive test signals].
- <Controller> is the transmitter, and uses [Transmit test signals].
When you want to perform the test from the location of the <Remote>
Blaster, use the following functions:
- <Controller> is the receiver, and uses [Receive test signals].
- <Remote> is the transmitter, and uses [Transmit test signals].
Choose a function:
[Test all Blasters] Test the communication with more than 1
Blaster.
[Test a single Blaster] Test the communication to a specific
Blaster.
To exit and shut down Blasters, see section Exit – Shut Down
Blasters, page 128.
RF connectivity:
99 - 100%: Communication will be successful
95 – 98%: Abort is possible
below 95%: Abort is most likely; blasting is not possible
To exit and shut down Blasters, see section Exit – Shut Down
Blasters, page 128.
RF connectivity:
99 - 100%: Communication will be successful
95 – 98%: Abort is possible
below 95%: Abort is most likely; blasting is not possible
10 packets lost If 10 packets are lost successively, then the connectivity drops to
zero - and stays zero.
Identify the source of the problem (For example radio interference,
mobile phone, Bluetooth devices, big rocks).
Adjust the positions of the Blaster.
Press [RESET] to delete the values and start a new test.
Bxx The lower bars on the screen show the signal strength of the transmitter
and the receiver.
Although the connectivity is high, interferences can disrupt the signal and
data packets can get lost.
Find the source of the interference, for example search for obstacles
near the path of the radio beam.
⇒ See also Antenna Alignment and Position, page 129.
If the test results are bad, then install a <Repeater> between the
Blasters, and test the communication again.
Configure a <Repeater>:
[MENU ► Setup ► Blaster ► Blaster Mode ► Repeater]
3. Press [OK].
You need to specify the number of this <Repeater>:
Figure 135 Choose repeater number
When the signal strength is good, then you may continue with the blast
preparation.
Table 18 Functions
Function Description
<Transmit test signals> Transmit the signals and check the communication.
Choose to test all receivers or just 1 receiver.
Prerequisite:
All receivers are ready to receive signals.
<Receive test signals> Receiver is ready to receive signals.
<Interface test> Checks if the modem processes ist parameters properly.
<Monitoring noise> Search for interfering signals that might disturb the
communication.
<Traceroute> Communicate with other Blasters to evaluate the signal
quality.
When you want to perform the test from the location of the <Controller>,
then use the following functions:
- <Remote> is the receiver, and uses [Receive test signals].
- <Controller> is the transmitter, and uses [Transmit test signals].
When you want to perform the test from the location of the <Remote>
Blaster, use the following functions:
- <Controller> is the receiver, and uses [Receive test signals].
- <Remote> is the transmitter, and uses [Transmit test signals].
Choose a function:
[Test all Blasters] Test the communication with more than 1
Blaster.
[Test a single Blaster] Test the communication to a specific
Blaster.
To exit and shut down Blasters, see section Exit – Shut Down
Blasters, page 128.
Prerequisite:
Receiver is prepared to receive test signals.
To exit and shut down Blasters, see section Exit – Shut Down
Blasters, page 128.
Signal strength:
-44 dBm Strong signal
-70 dBm Minimum signal strength
-100 dBm Weak signal, probably drowning in noise
8.3.9. Traceroute
You can check the signal strength of a message on its way from the
transmitter to the receiver.
Test from the proposed location of the <Remote> Blaster to the
Controller to find the best position of the antenna of the Remote
Blaster.
Test the communication from the Controller to the other Blasters
before firing to check if the communication is still good.
Table 19 Functions
Function Description
<T1: Signal test Controller to Remote> Controller transmits test signals and checks
the communication.
Prerequisite:
<Remote> Blasters are prepared for
blasting, blue Dongle is available.
<T2: Signal test Remote to Controller> <Remote> Blaster transmits test signals to
the <Controller>.
<Controller> must be in listening mode.
<T2: Controller in listening mode> Controller is ready to receive test signals.
<Interface test> Checks if the modem processes ist
parameters properly.
Prerequisites:
The <Remote> Blasters are prepared for blasting.
The remote dongles are written and available.
<Signal>, signal strength for Wi-Fi signals displayed in dBm and with
a block diagram.
<Last reply>, time since the last answer has been received.
“---“ (red rectangle), the fields are empty when there is no reply.
4. With [RESET] you can restart the test.
Communication is reliable when the signal strength is high (in
Wi-Fi) and the time since the last reply is short.
Signal strength:
-45 dBm Strong signal
-120 dBm Weak signal, probably drowning in noise
To exit and shut down Blasters, see section Exit – Shut Down
Blasters, page 128.
Prerequisites:
The <Controller> is in listening mode:
[MENU ► Testing ► T2: Controller in listening mode]
The IP address of the <Controller> is displayed.
Table 20 Functions
Function Description
<Transmit test signals> The transmitter establishes an analog phone
connection to the receiver.
Works only when the receiver is ready to
receive test signals.
<Receive test signals> The receiver is ready to receive signals, to
take the call and respond.
<Interface test> Checks if the modem processes ist
parameters properly.
When you want to perform the test from the location of the <Controller>,
then use the following functions:
- <Remote> is the receiver, and uses [Receive test signals].
- <Controller> is the transmitter, and uses [Transmit test signals].
When you want to perform the test from the location of the <Remote>
Blaster, use the following functions:
- <Controller> is the receiver, and uses [Receive test signals].
- <Remote> is the transmitter, and uses [Transmit test signals].
When the transmitter has found the receiver, it displays the analysis:
<Sent Packets>, number of packets that were sent
<Packets lost>, number of packets that were sent but not received
<Last packet>, time elapsed since the last packet was received
<Testing time>, time since the test has begun
5. If the connection cannot be established, check the phone line and the
phone numbers.
6. With [RESET], you can start the test again.
The communication is reliable when the time of the last packet
is short.
Position <Remote>
Blasters and <Controller>
Need
yes Activate <Repeater>
<Repeater> • Assign Repeater number
no
Test radio communication
Background color:
blue: preparation yellow: user decisions white: system checks
orange: aborts light red: important decisions red: evacuate, detonate
Position <Remote>
Blasters and <Controller>
yes
Write remote dongle (Not with analog phone)
The overview shows all detected Blasters, their Loggers and the number
of logged detonators.
Figure 160 Blaster overview
Switch on Controller
Connect Loggers and Sync Slaves
Stage 1
Press [OK] to initialize
Initialization
Choose remote blasting mode.
Establish Ccmmunication
yes
Blaster overview: no Concurrent mode:
Number Loggers + dets correct? Deactivate Blaster? no
yes
Stage 3
Manual mode:
FIRE
Select Blasters to fire?
no
User abort Press [FIRE]?
yes
System check: Detonation
System no • Sync Slaves OK? yes
abort • Remote Blasters OK?
• First + last det OK?
yes
yes
yes no Automatic Another Blaster?
Manuel mode?
mode?
no
Reports
Background color:
blue: preparation yellow: user decisions white: system checks
orange: aborts light red: important decisions red: evacuate, detonate
When more than 1 <Remote> Blaster is present, you need to choose the
blasting mode:
Figure 165 Blasting modes
<Manual> You give the FIRE command manually for one Blaster
after the other.
<Automatic> Each Blaster initiates its detonators automatically
30 seconds after the previous Blaster.
<Concurrent> WARNING – Risk of misfires
Use only for independent blast sites:
All Blasters initiate their detonators nearly at the same
time.
The firing timing depends on the exact time when the
Remote Blaster receives the fire command and the
quality of the communication with its Loggers.
Firing behavior:
If one Blaster aborts because of an error, the other Blasters will
fire their detonators.
If a Blaster aborts that is in a remote group, then the whole
remote group aborts.
Signal:
Green and yellow bars indicate a successful communication.
If the bar turns red, communication is not possible.
Prerequisites:
The function to de-select Blasters must be installed and activated in
the factory settings.
The blasting mode <Concurrent> is chosen.
Blaster status:
<Ready to Fire> – no detonator errors
<Ready to Fire with Errors> – there are detonator errors
[FIRE] buttons flash accompanied by beeps. The beep switches off after
30 seconds and restarts for the last minute of the countdown.
To check Loggers and detonators, select a Blaster and press
[OVERVIEW]. Continue in chapter Blaster Overview after
Programming in Stage 2, page 94.
When everything is correct, then continue on the next page.
Firing behavior:
If one Blaster aborts because of an error, the other Blasters will
fire their detonators.
If a Blaster aborts that is in a remote group, then the whole
remote group aborts.
The Blaster verifies that the first and the last detonator on each
harness circuit are still responding.
If an error occurs, the Blaster aborts the blast, see section Abort
after the FIRE Command, page 101.
When no error occurs, the Blaster sends the fire command, and the
detonators initiate according to their delay time.
BANG
Firing behavior:
If one Blaster aborts because of an error, the other Blasters will
fire their detonators.
If a Blaster aborts that is in a remote group, then the whole
remote group aborts.
If one Blaster aborts, then check that firing the next blast does not
endanger the later successes of the aborted blast and the next blasts.
Switch on Controller
Stage 1
Press [OK] to initialize Initialize
Deactivate Logger?
Blaster overview: no
Number Loggers + dets correct?
yes User abort
Stage 2
Insert master dongle Programming
yes
yes no
Programming errors? Confirm Errors? User abort
no yes
no
Blaster overview: no
Number Loggers + dets correct?
yes
Stage 3
FIRE
no
User abort Press [FIRE]?
yes
System check: Detonation
System no • Sync Slaves OK? yes
abort • Remote Blasters OK?
• First + last det OK?
Reports
Background color:
blue: preparation yellow: user decisions white: system checks
orange: aborts light red: important decisions red: evacuate, detonate
The controlling Blaster communicates with all other Blasters and updates
the overview.
Figure 184 Blaster overview
⇒ Continue in stage 3.
Prerequisites:
No errors have occurred during the programming sequence.
Or, the confirmed errors do not endanger the safety or success of the
blast.
Blaster status:
<Ready to Fire> – no detonator errors
<Ready to Fire with Errors> – there are detonator errors
[FIRE] buttons flash accompanied by beeps. The beep switches off after
30 seconds and restarts for the last minute of the countdown.
To check Loggers and detonators, select a Blaster and press
[OVERVIEW]. Continue in chapter Blaster Overview with confirmed
Errors, page 100.
When everything is correct, then continue on the next page.
The Blaster verifies that the first and the last detonator on each
harness circuit are still responding.
If an error occurs, the Blaster aborts the blast, see section Abort
after the FIRE Command, page 101.
When no error occurs, the Blaster sends the fire command, and the
detonators initiate according to their delay time.
BANG
ORICA
***FW Version : xxxx
***Serial Number :
***BATT: Voltage =
***BATT: Current =
***BATT: Level = 100%
***BATT: Temp. =
+++KAP-FW:
+++KAP: Internal Self-test ok
+++Overvoltage test ok
+++LI-FW:
Self-test passed
Line 1-6 Firmware version, serial number, battery data
Line 7-9 KAP version, overvoltage test
<LI-FW> Logger Interface firmware
Self-test failed:
If the self-test fails, an error message appears.
1. Check and retry.
2. If the self-test is passed, then check the settings.
Sometimes internal data are corrupted and standard parameters are
restored.
3. If the self-test fails again, then do NOT use this device.
DANGER
NEVER use a defect device.
- Export the reports.
- Send the reports with a description of the problem to the Orica
Technical Service.
Self-test is performed.
Check if it is safe to fire the detonators with errors, or abort and replace
the faulty detonators.
11.2. Maintenance
WARNING
Unauthorized modifications lead to equipment malfunction, to misfires,
or to unintended detonation!
Death or severe injuries
NEVER deactivate safety functions or remove safety precautions.
NEVER use defective equipment.
NEVER unscrew the casing of Orica devices.
NEVER retrofit, extend or modify Orica devices.
① Tester's signature
② Month and year of the next inspection
If you need to ship more than 2 devices, then find a carrier who is trained
and able to carry class 9 dangerous goods.
11.4. Disposal
This electronic device contains lithium-ion batteries.
12. Information
12.1. Expressions and Abbreviations
Table 25 Glossary
Expression Description No
abort Deliberate termination of the blasting sequence (charging or firing). 1
arm, arming Energizing the capacitor of an electronic detonator to the firing voltage. 2
blast pattern Diagram of the drilled holes as laid out for blasting. 3
blast plan List of all technical details including drilling and loading. 4
charging site Area where boreholes are located and explosive materials are handled 5
blast site during loading of the shot. The area includes at least 15 meters (50 ft) in
all directions.
The area can be larger in local regulations.
blasting area Area that can be affected by flyrock, dust, or fumes from an explosion 6
that can cause personal injuries, damages to property.
blasting Steps that lead to the "FIRE" command: 7
sequence, initialize – charge and program – fire
firing
sequence
borehole Hole drilled in material to place explosives. 8
burning Location where misfires can be destroyed. 9
ground
connector Enables an electrical connection between the harness wire and the 10
legwires of a detonator.
deck Layer of detonators within a borehole, separated by stemming. 11
delay time, Lapse of time between the application of a firing signal and the 12
delay detonation of a delay detonator.
detonator Short for "electronic detonator": 13
det, dets Electronic device containing micro-chip and detonating charge, used to
initiate an explosive.
detonator ID Detonator's unique identification number stored in the chip and printed 14
on the label.
detonator Electric circuit containing electronic detonators and associated wiring. 15
network,
firing circuit
EMI Electromagnetic Interference 16
harness Double wired cable, or bus line where detonators are connected on in 17
parallel.
IP code International Protection Marking,or Ingress Protection Rating, classifies 18
the protection a housing against the intrusion of solid objects and water.
Examples:
IP 54: "5" = dust protected, "4" = splash-proof
IP 67: "6" = dust tight, "7" = protected against temporary flooding
leakage Undesirable flow of current from the detonator network into the ground. 19
current
legwires Pair of insulated wires attached to a detonator on one side and to a 20
connector on the other side.
loading Process of placing an explosive charge into a borehole. 21
LTE Modem type to communicate via mobile phone network 38
misfire Explosive charge or detonator that fails to detonate after an attempt of 22
initiation.
muck pile Pile of broken burden resulting from a blast. 23
out of Detonator initiated at a wrong delay time, after the shotfirer gave the 24
sequence FIRE command.
firing
pattern Drawing or list with the positions of boreholes; same as blast pattern. 25
Expression Description No
primer Unit, package, or cartridge of explosives used to initiate other 26
explosives or blasting agents, and which contains detonator and
booster.
shotfirer Holder of a licence to use explosives to break or dislodge rock and soil, 27
or to demolish structures.
shotfirer-in- Qualified person who is in charge of and responsible for the design, 28
charge, loading and firing of a blast.
blaster-in-
charge
sleep mode In the passive mode (sleep mode), the device consumes very little 29
passive mode battery power. The device has to be activated by a special command.
sleep time Time between explosives being loaded into a borehole and their 30
initiation.
standby In standby mode, the device is ready to receive signals. 31
mode,
standby time
stemming Inert material filled between the explosive charge and the collar of the 32
borehole to confine the explosion gases.
stray current, Flow of electricity through equipment, buildings or the ground. Reason 33
stray voltage might be imbalances in electrical supply systems or because of wiring
damage.
Stray current results from an electrical potential between objects that
should not have a voltage difference.
sympathetic Detonation of explosive material as the result of receiving an impulse 34
detonation from another detonation through air, earth or water.
uncommande Detonator initiated before the shotfirer gave the FIRE command. 35
d firing
unintended Detonator initiated unintendedly because of friction, heat, impact, shock, 36
initiation electrostatic discharge or other sources. Or the detonator was NOT
specified for the firing device.
WLAN / Wi-Fi Both expressions are used for the wireless area network 37
12.3. Units
Table 28 Units
Unit Description
mA milli Ampères
µA micro Ampères
V Volts
ms milli seconds
mW milli Watts
Ω Ohms, unit of electric resistance
Article N o:
Firmware:
Instr ucti ons for Us e - for Shotfirers
Contents
Index
12.5. Index
Detonators
A Allowed ...................................... 40
More, fewer .............................. 186
Abort Disposal........................................ 202
Globals found ............................ 95 Detonator ................................. 198
Abort blasting ................................. 80 Dongle ............................................ 36
About the Blaster............................ 46
Adapter
Power plug ................................. 39 E
Alias ............................................... 47 Enable Satel modem ...................... 56
Analog modem ............................... 58 Error
Analog phone ................................. 29 List ........................................... 186
Antenna.......................................... 37 Programming ..................... 97, 197
Antenna alignment ....................... 129 Programming report ................... 94
Automatic mode ........................... 165 Self-test .................................... 184
Errors
B Limit ........................................... 53
I
C
ID Blaster........................................ 51
Central firing unit ............................ 29 Identification plate .......................... 23
Charger .......................................... 39 Improper use .................................. 14
Charging ........................................ 39 Info Blaster ..................................... 45
Cleaning ....................................... 199 Information ..................................... 46
Communication Inspection ..................................... 201
Test.......................................... 127 Install
Concurrent mode ......................... 165 Language ................................... 66
Connectivity ................................. 136 Intended use................................... 13
Interface
D Setup.......................................... 55
Date ............................................... 64
Deactivate K
Logger ....................................... 92 Keep-alive counter (KAP) ......... 16, 46
Dependent blast sites..................... 73 Keyboard ........................................ 47
Deselect Blaster ........................... 172 Keys for operation .......................... 38
Det not logged .............................. 194
Detonator
Misfire ...................................... 198
Properties .................................. 24
L Log in ......................................... 48
Pressure compensation .................. 37
LAN Problems ...................................... 196
Settings...................................... 60 Programming error report ............... 97
Test.......................................... 148 Programming report........................ 94
Language ....................................... 65 Properties ....................................... 23
Leakage current ................... 169, 180
Leaky Feeder
2 modems .................................. 31
R
3 modems .................................. 30 RE error ........................................ 194
Modem ....................................... 57 Re-enter blast area ....................... 106
Traceroute ............................... 147 Remote blasting ................... 164, 177
Limit Remote Dongle .............................. 36
Errors ......................................... 53 Remote group ................................. 28
Limits.............................................. 22 Remove Blaster ............................ 172
Logger Repeater....................................... 137
Exclude ...................................... 92 Repeater mode ............................... 52
Report ........................................ 91 Report................................... 108, 110
Requirements ............................ 46 Save ......................................... 109
Loggers Retry counter ................................ 170
Count numbers .......................... 82 RSSI Trip ...................................... 146
More, fewer .............................. 186
Low voltage .................................. 192
S
M Safety concept ................................ 15
Safety key....................................... 36
Maintenance ................................ 199 Safety message .............................. 11
Manual mode ............................... 165 Safety regulations ........................... 13
Master Dongle ................................ 36 Self-test .......................................... 40
Menu Error ......................................... 184
Blaster settings .......................... 50 Failed ....................................... 184
Interface..................................... 55 Serial modem ................................. 55
System....................................... 63 Serial number ......................... 46, 110
Menu structure ............................... 44 Service offices .............................. 206
Misfire .......................................... 198 Setup
Mixed Logger type.......................... 76 LF Modem .................................. 57
Modem Password ............................. 48, 68
Analog ....................................... 58 Satel Modem .............................. 56
Leaky Feeder ............................. 57 SHOTPlus ...................................... 20
LTE ............................................ 59 Shut down
Setup Satel ................................ 56 Remote Blaster ................ 105, 128
Test.......................... 131, 141, 151 Signal strength ............................. 146
More Sleep mode .................................. 118
Dets/Loggers ........................... 186 Standby
Check ......................................... 41
N Sync ......................................... 118
Storage ......................................... 199
N/A ................................................. 95 Switch off ........................................ 42
Noise ............................................ 146 Switch on ........................................ 40
Not programmed .......................... 194 Sync
Cable........................................ 113
O Cable test ................................. 112
Interface ..................................... 62
Operating language........................ 65 Output terminal .......................... 35
Output terminal .............................. 35 Sync Slaves
Overview Less/more ................................ 121
Stage 1 ...................................... 90 System image ............................... 185
Stage 2 ...................................... 94 System test............................... 74, 75
With errors ................................. 97
Owner ............................................ 10
T
P Target group ................................... 10
Terminals........................................ 35
Password Termination resistor ........ 62, 112, 114
Edit ............................................ 68 Test