AuScope VLBI Operations Wiki blog

blog:12m_pointing_solution_v1

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

12m pointing solution v1 A new pointing solution (based on 13 observations only) has been loaded into the controller. See Antenna pointing solutions. Solutions have been entered into the controller but further observations to verify/improve are required. hobart pointing

blog:anemometer

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Anemometer From Brett Reid: “We have tested that a closure of the contacts coming from the new anemometer produces a wind stow of the antenna. This was following Brenton connecting the wires according to Mark's email and me restoring the connection after removing the governor's press button.

blog:azimuth_cable_wrap

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Azimuth cable wrap The IF cables in the azimuth twister, below the turning, head have been replaced/rerouted. They still need to be checked for OK laying throughout the entire wrap, from + to - limit. As a result, the emergency stop is pressed. The antenna should not be moved until this check is done.

blog:better_receiver_info_for_ho26

2015-06-11T06:38:57+00:00

Better receiver info for Ho26 A new procedure has been added to both sched_initi and postob which will check the focus platform position and adds a comment to the log saying which receiver this corresponds to. For AUSTRAL experiments, please make sure that this reports that the

blog:blogkatherine_maintanance_trip_june_15-24

2014-06-27T06:09:01+00:00

blog: katherine_maintenance_trip_june_15-24, 2014 Ke maintanance trip Backend Done: - mk5's are supplied with new Smart power supplies: mk5ke with 1200W, mk5-2ke with 850W. Originally they were 550W units. - mk5ke and mk5-2ke were successfully tested for recording and conditioning with two 16-TB modules.

blog:c1405_notes

2014-05-13T01:35:17+00:00

C1405 notes Note to observers Can anyone doing an expt changeover PLEASE record the disk pos at expt start on the paper schedule, so that we can properly and easily check disk usage? -Claire Ke: * Telescope system died after experiment changeover and before first scan, no data from scan 130-0001c to 130-0203 while all systems rebooted (Mark). -Claire

blog:change_to_preob_hb

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Change to preob Hb The preob procedure has an onsource command which sometimes comes in a little before the antenna is finished on some occasions. The midob procedure is executed right after the record=on command, and has an onsource in it. For R1471 we're running with no onsource in preob. It it seems relaible, we'll need to update our scripts as preob is usually an experiment-specific procedure.

blog:changes_to_prc_files

2012-01-12T02:21:58+00:00

Changes to prc files Added a !+1s delay in preob before mk5=dot? as recommended by Dan Smythe. Done on /usr2/proc/hb12m.prc, also corresponding files on pcfske, pcfsyg. Dan said: The 'dot?' query in 'preob' is off by more than 0.5 second, probably because of delays caused by network traffic. Suggest deleting the 'dot?' query from 'preob', or at least putting a '!+1s' delay in 'preob' before the 'mk5=dot?' query.

blog:chris_changes_at_mtp

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Chris' Changes at MtP Mark5 packages Installed the following packages on mk5hb and/or mk5ke * screen * iperf * ethtool * rsync

blog:continuous_cal

2013-07-26T09:29:22+00:00

Continuous cal at Yg The continuous cal cabling from DBBC to noise diode was completed and tested succesfully. Jamie calculated that the S-band continuous cal signal should be decreased by 7dB and that X-band should be increased by 7dB. This has been done and needs testing. The normal cal should also be checked for amplitude.

blog:controller_software_update_7_may

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Controller Software Update 7 May 1400 UTC 7 May I'm about to start installing and testing an update to the Hobart antenna controller software to fix the digital lock ON/OFF indicator problem. Will notify when complete. Mark Godwin

blog:controller_software_update_complete_on_hobart_12m

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Controller Software Update Complete on Hobart 12m 1520 UT 20 Sept 2010. The software update is complete. The update affects the At Position and At Velocity status bits that are used in Position and Velocity modes. These are now held at 0 when working in Track mode.

blog:counter_procedure_on_pcfs_machines

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

"counter" procedure on PCFS machines Thanks to Ed Himwich and Jonathan Quick, a reliable procedure for configuring the counters has been found. The key was to replace the :meas:tint? with :func 'tint 1,2'. The new counter procedure is as follows: define counter 10278223006x "setting up agilent counters hpib=ca,*rst hpib=ca,:func 'tint 1,2' hpib=ca,:even1:hyst:rel 10 hpib=ca,:even1:lev:abs 0.9v hpib=ca,:even1:slop pos hpib=ca,:inp1:att 1 hpib=ca,:inp1:coup dc hpib=ca,:inp1:filt off hpib…

blog:dbbc_8gb_linuxcf

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

DBBC + Linux on 8GB CF I went out to the observatory again on Friday and had another go at making the DBBC boot Linux off our 8GB CF card. I failed. Investigation of the hopeful error message which was observed previously revealed that instead of being useful it is a generic

blog:dbbc_calibration_at_yg_jan_2013

2013-01-31T00:48:58+00:00

DBBC calibration at Yg Jan 2013 29 Jan 2013: Randall installed replacement CoMo B sent by Gino 30 Jan 2013: (Jim & Jamie) Ran calibration procedure using the profile dbbc_config_file_102_calibration.txt and found nulls as follows: old values 100 75 80 100

blog:dbbc_configuration_with_new_ifa_ifb_firmware_swap

2011-11-22T03:20:07+00:00

DBBC configuration with new IFA/IFB firmware swap * Placed new firmware file, called dbbc2_IFA_IFB_swap.bit in C:\DBBC_CONF\FilesDBBC * In C:\DBBC_CONF, edit conf.cmd and changed dbbc2.bit references to dbbc2_IFA_IFB_swap.bit * In C:\DBBC_CONF, edit

blog:dbbc_front_covers

2012-06-20T16:46:57+00:00

DBBC front covers dbbc yg hb During the Hobart miniTOW overheating of the rear pci cards was discussed. It was decided that the clear front panels should be re-installed to provide the correct airflow to the rear boards. 15/6/2012 - Front panel reinstalled on Hb dbbc. Now good airflow through rear slots.

blog:dbbc_module_swap

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

DBBC module swap 25/6/10 Exchanged conditioning modules A and B in order to deal with the apparent problems in CoMo B, and to be able to use the working 1024-1536 filter in module A. To do this, you need to change jumper camples inside the conditioning modules so that the asserted address and physical addresses match. The jumpers are located on the main board, underneath an aluminium panel secured by 8 screws. If the addresses do not match, the DBBC will not program correctly.

blog:dbbc_power_modules

2013-09-23T08:27:18+00:00

DBBC power modules Measured supply voltage and ripple on the 2 Lambda power modules in base of Hobart12 DBBC. Module 1 3.3V = 3.284V with 40mV P-P ripple 5V = 5.02V with 60mV P-P ripple 12V = 12.01V with 130mV P-P ripple -5V = -5.03V with 100mV P-P ripple

blog:dbbc_software_upgrades

2012-09-27T05:52:37+00:00

DBBC software upgrades Hb and Ke DBBCs have had upgrades to v102 of the firmware and corresponding software. Yg is still at v100 for now as routing through CoMos A and B are swapped. Note that with the new software, the config file formats are different. Also there is a bug at the moment: when the client software is started, it expects the new file format. However, the load command still expects the old format!

blog:dbbc_testing

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

DBBC testing Jamie and I spent Wednesday conducting tests with the DBBC to determine if the high-end of X-band bandpass was not flat enough or if there was a problem with the DBBC. Conclusion was that the IF is OK and Gino has agreed to ship a spare module to replace the (probably) faulty one.

blog:dbbc_v104_testing_at_hb

2013-10-03T00:35:44+00:00

DBBC v104 testing at Hb * Edited /usr2/control/equip.ctl and changed version to v104 * on DBBC, started DBBC2 Control DDC v104_2.exe * created dbbc_config_file_104_calibration.txt * in pcfs: * dbbc=load=dbbc_config_file_104_calibration.txt

blog:dbbc_v104_testing_at_yg

2013-10-02T05:01:11+00:00

DBBC v104 testing at Yg * Edited /usr2/control/equip.ctl and changed version to v104 * on DBBC, started DBBC2 Control DDC v104_2.exe * created dbbc_config_file_104_calibration.txt * in pcfs: * dbbc=load=dbbc_config_file_104_calibration.txt

blog:dbbc_workat_yg_2013_jul_25

2013-08-07T00:05:54+00:00

DBBC work at Yg, 2013 Jul 25 DBBC has had its CPU board replaced for the cooler ATOM processor board from Advantech. The earthing of the VSI cable connector has been implemented. Jamie configured and tested the DBBC. He started a test schedule and there have been no clock jumps in 24 hours.

blog:dbbchb_new_software_calibration

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

DBBCHB new software & calibration The latest version of the DBBC software (DBBC DDC v2_100, downloaded from Hatlab site October 2011) & firmware has been installed on DBBCHB. After setting it up, the calibration procedure was carried out. The new values for the clock delays are 110 70 92 110. All the dbbc_config_file files have been updated.

blog:dbbcke_new_software_calibration

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

DBBCKE new software & calibration The latest version of the DBBC software (DBBC DDC v2_100, downloaded from Hatlab site Otober 2011) & firmware has been installed on DBBCKE. After setting it up, the calibration procedure was carried out. The new values for the clock delays are 100 92 87 220. All the dbbc_config_file files have been updated.

blog:dbbcyg_new_software_calibration

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

DBBCYG new software & calibration The latest version of the DBBC software (DBBC DDC v2_100, downloaded from Hatlab site October 2011) & firmware has been installed on DBBCYG. After setting it up, the calibration procedure was carried out. The new values for the clock delays are 100 75 80 100. All the dbbc_config_file files have been updated.

blog:dimino_upgraded_to_v3.0.2

2014-03-31T02:00:30+00:00

DImino upgraded to v3.0.2 A revision to DIMino (3.0.2) which supports better handling of 1024-scan DirLists has been released by Haystack and has been installed on mk5hb, mk5ke and mk5yg. It has not been tested on its ability to read back short DirList modules yet, but seems to be working normally.

blog:field_system_procedure_changes

2014-07-30T23:59:19+00:00

Field System procedure changes clkoff and maserdelay have been removed from preob and postob. Now only midob sends these commands.

blog:field_system_station_procedure_file_updates

2014-04-23T02:54:33+00:00

Field System Station procedure file updates The checkmk5 and midob procedure files at Hb, Ke, Yg and Ho have been updated according to this request from Ed Himwich on Feb 13 in station.prc and ops-serv2:/vlbobs/ivs/proc/check*.prc. Also the midob procedure on the 12m antennas now calls

blog:finished_controller_software_update_7_may

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Finished Controller Software Update 7 May 1555 UTC 7 May The update was installed and tested but it did not entirely cure the problem, which now appears to be due to a time delay in one of the in-built motion control fucntions. As noted previously the flag error only occurs when switching to track mode while the antenna is still moving in velocity or positon mode. There is no problem if the antenna is allowed to decelerate to a halt before switching to track mode.

blog:finished_investigating_on_off_position_flag_error

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Finished Investigating ON/OFF Position Flag Error 1800 UT 19 March. I've finished testing the 12m antenna for now. I was able to repeat the problem and will have another session at some time during this weekend to load and test an update.

blog:flagr_dbbc-linux

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Test of MG patch, and DBBC + Linux Mark Godwin has updated the antenna control software to hopefully remove the “bounce” we are observing when attempting to detect the ONSOURCE state. While the symptoms appear to have changed slightly, the bounce is still present:

blog:fmout_changes

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

fmout changes Inputs to the two agilent counters have been swapped so that clkoff/fmout returns the DOTMON-GPS tick difference. The dbbcdelay command has been removed from the preob and replaced with maserdelay, which measures the maser-GPS tickphase.

blog:fringe_test_experiment_12_may_2010

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Fringe test experiment 12 May 2010 (day 132) Fringe test with Tsukuba and Kokee, starting at 00:00 UT and running for 2h. Setup RF unit showing cross-over switches both in “Direct” mode. Commenced observations recording nominal RCP. 12m signals going to DBBC/Mark5B and MarkIV-rack/Mark5A simultaneously. IF setup was as follows:

blog:fs_9.11.4_-_9.11.5_at_hb_ke_yg

2014-04-23T04:41:12+00:00

FS 9.11.4 -> 9.11.5 at Hb, Ke, Yg The PC Filed system software has been upgraded from 9.11.4 to 9.11.5 at Hb, Ke and Yg hb ke yg

blog:fs_clock_rates_trimmed

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

FS clock rates trimmed FS clocks at all three sites trimmed according to /usr2/fs/misc/fstime.txt

blog:fs_notification_of_power_outages

2015-06-25T03:35:59+00:00

FS notification of power outages The UPSmon script at Hobart and Katherine (which detects power outages by monitoring the UPS status) has been updated to add an error message in the FS log as well as sending Brett an SMS. This should help in determining the cause of problems such as mark5 crashes, antenna communication problems, etc.

blog:fs_updated_to_9.11.7

2015-08-04T07:12:19+00:00

FS updated to 9.11.7 The FS version at Hb, Ke and Yg has been upgraded to 9.11.7 to bring the versions in line with Hobart and Ceduna. This is a minor upgrade but does fix some problems with drudg and channel selection, and includes better support for jive5ab.

blog:fs_upgraded_to_9.10.4

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

FS upgraded to 9.10.4 The PCFS installation for the 12m antenna has been upgraded to v9.10.4, the current version. (Including running the specified FSL8 platform). Some thought should be given to the reply email address for emails sent from here. Currently there is an exim rewrite rule:

blog:fs_upgraded_to_9.11.3_at_yg

2013-07-25T04:43:16+00:00

FS upgraded to 9.11.3 at Yg PCFS software at Yg has been upgraded from 9.11.2 to 9.11.3 at Yg. Not yet tested with DBBC as it's in pieces at the moment. Link to upgrade notes: 9.11.2 to 9.11.3 at Yg This version is DBBC v104 compatible and can set BBC TPI default levels. DRUDG now produces output .prc files with default IF power levels which is nice. Continuous cal will also be worth a try when the DBBC is re-assembled.

blog:gmail_and_skype_accounts

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Gmail and Skype accounts Gmail and Skype accounts have been set up for operations at each telescope site. More information on the Operator Documentation page.

blog:gpib-rs232_converter_replaced_at_hb

2015-06-02T02:29:16+00:00

GPIB-RS232 converter replaced at Hb The GPIB-RS232 at Hb had stopped working prior to the r1690hb experiment and repeated power-cycles of the GPIB-RS232 converter & pcfshb failed to fix this. A spare has been put in place and is now working. The failed converter will be checked to see if it is fixable - it may have lost its settings or have suffered some other fault.

blog:hb_-_s_x_replaced_and_new_pointing_model

2015-11-16T04:51:21+00:00

Hb - S/X replaced and new pointing model The S/X was replaced on Hb12 on 13/11/15. Initial tests with Y-factor tests indicate good X-band Tsys (~78 K) but fairly poor S-band Tsys (95-105 K). Pointing data was collected over the weekend and a new pointing model was generated (2015.317) but the corrections are small.

blog:hb_cal_efficiency_estimate

2012-02-16T05:45:41+00:00

Hb Cal & Efficiency estimate For Hb12, the CAL for 2011 is estimated 11.3 K for X-band and 4.9 K for S-band. The efficiency is estimated as 60% (equiv to 40.8 Jy/K) at S-band. A X-band, it varies with elevation. Aperture Efficiency = -2.77e-5*El^2 +3.03e-3*El + 0.555

blog:hb_elevation_jackscrew_to_dish_lug_bush_lubrication

2012-02-01T05:03:02+00:00

Hb elevation jackscrew to dish lug bush lubrication The cover plates were removed from the pin at the high end of the jack screw. A grease nipple was installed in each cover plate and a gasket placed between the cover plate and lug. The bolts were replaced with 3/8 UNC X 1 inch bolts made of stainless steel. The screw holes needed cleaning with a tap and RP7. Grease was pumped in to the grease nipple to fill the cavity near the ends of the pin. This was recommended by Kevin and Bob, as the

blog:hb_fs_upgraded_to_9.11.3

2013-09-25T06:37:10+00:00

Hb FS upgraded to 9.11.3 The Field System software at Hb has been upgraded to version 9.11.3. We're still running v102 of the DBBC software. Testing of v104 is required. Here are detailed notes on what was done. pcfs hb

blog:hb_fs_upgraded_to_9.11.4

2013-10-03T04:02:47+00:00

Hb FS upgraded to 9.11.4 Notes are here 9.11.3 to 9.11.4 at Hb

blog:hb_pointing_check

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Hb pointing check Feb 21, prior to R1471, checked pointing on 1921-293. Offsets were: xEl : -0.01 deg El : -0.015 deg Sources was at Az, El = -101, 33.6 at the time. Decided not to update pointing model based on these small offsets

blog:hb_pointing_check_2011_mar_28

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Hb pointing check 2011 Mar 28 Before r1476, pointing check on 1921-293 (az,el = -82, 54). Offsets: xEl = 0 deg El = -0.01 deg No need to update model

blog:hb_pointing_model

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Hb pointing model Updated at 03.10 UT with 0.2167 deg DC offset in Elevation (0.05 deg more than last time) following tightening up of elevation encoder mounting bracket. More notes in the Antenna Pointing Solutions section.

blog:hb_pointing_model_2014_205

2014-08-05T03:09:43+00:00

Hb pointing model 2014/205 The Hb pointing model has been updated in the PCFS based on data taken around day 205. Pointing observations on days 216/217 were made and verify new solution looks good. hb

blog:hb_pointing_model_update

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

New model computed from pointing run made on October 12/13 P1 = -0.0363 P2 = -0.4263 P3 = 0.0048 P4 = -0.0026 P5 = -0.0004 P7 = 0.1906 P8 = 0.0250 P9 = -0.0014 Previous Model: $P[0] = 0; $P[1] = -0.1291; $P[2] = -0.3504; $P[3] = 0.0841; $P[4] = 0.0005; $P[5] = -0.0060; $P[6] = 0.0000; $P[7] = 0.1730; $P[8] = 0.0681; $P[9] = -0.0062;

blog:hobart_12m_controller_software_update

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Hobart 12m Controller software update 1430 UT Monday 20 September 2010 During the next hour I will load a software update to the Hobart 12m Antenn Controller. Will notify when upload is complete. Mark Godwin

blog:hobart_12m_controller_software_update_complete

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Hobart 12m controller software update complete 1134 UTC 23 June 2010. Update installation complete. Mark Godwin

blog:hobart_12m_pointing

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Hobart 12m pointing I'm working on a pointing solution for the Hobart 12m antenna. Attached is a spreadsheet with the first day's observations. pointing hobart

blog:hobart_12m_pointing_model

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Hobart 12m pointing model Updated at 23.00 UT with 0.155 deg DC offset in Elevation. More notes in the Antenna Pointing Solutions section.

blog:if_monitor_boxes

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

IF monitor boxes 28/6/10 - Eric has received the new circuit boards for the update IF boxes. The PICAXE code is complete as well as the C program which provides TCP communications. These have been tested and work reliably. The only significant hazard is in power failures affecting the IF box which can cause lost data in the serial string and cause garbled strings. This can be corrected either by restarting the C program or by UPS-ing the IF box

blog:implementation_of_continuous_cal_at_ke

2014-04-24T04:43:15+00:00

Implementation of continuous cal at Ke In station.prc, take out calls to caltsys_man, systemp12 In setupsx, set cont_cal=on . In caltsys, remove caltsys_man and replace with tpicd=tsys. Remove ifagc and bbd_gain=all,agc calls In point.prc, in initp

blog:katherine_aircon

2016-06-06T04:42:21+00:00

Katherine aircon After installing the maser post refurb, and SSR installation for aircon compressor, the aircon was turned off at 0452 on Fri 3/6/16 and a large fan was turned on. 0430UT on 6/6/16 air con was turned on and large fan off and maser room closed.

blog:katherine_antenna_coordinates

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Katherine antenna coordinates Measured with GPS receiver in my iPhone and being used for acceptance tests: Lat 14 22 31.70 S = -14.37547222 Long 132 09 08.54 E = 132.1523722 Elevation 203m katherine

blog:katherine_dbbc_repaired

2015-12-02T09:04:04+00:00

Katherine repairs Three major repairs were finished on 2/12/15 * DBBC * IF wiring * Anemometer DBBC: The Katherine DBBC is fully repaired as of 2/12/15. It originally failed 24/11/15, during r1715 with a total comms failure. This was eventually traced to the PCI7200 board, where the driver chip had burnt out. Replacing this board allowed Katherine to resume observations but with some apparent communication problems with the core2 units - bbc attenuations were being mis-set dur to a stuck bit…

blog:katherine_maintenance_trip_april_12-17

2014-04-24T00:25:29+00:00

Katherine Maintenance Trip (April 12-17) * DBBC Service - Replaced PCI7200 card, swapped CoMos B & C, reseated stack, connected longer VSI cable to mk5-2ke. No further problems with errorenous readback of power levels, but seem to be suffering a new poblem with clock breaks in the mark5 units. Will revisit earthing of the mark5 units to attempt to correct this problem.

blog:katherine_pointing_check_4_july_2011

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Katherine pointing check 4 July 2011 Spot checks on Taurus (looks fine) and 0537-441: xEl offset = 0.0 deg El offset = -0.015 deg Az, El = 136, 39

blog:katherine_pointing_model_update

2013-09-11T07:06:36+00:00

Katherine pointing model update Following reports of large pointing offsets (~0.05') from crf77, two days of pointing data was collected with acquire (252-254) and was processed with pdplt and update. The new model parameters are -0.3152914345 0.0000000000 -0.0102583049 -0.0026900675 -0.0120386276 -0.0114547899 0.4862529337 0.0000000000 0.0000000000 0.0000000000 0.0000000000 0.0000000000 -0.0397695228 0.0000000000 0.0000000000 0.0000000000 0.0000000000 0…

blog:katherine_pointing_solution_v1.0

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Katherine pointing solution v1.0 Katherine pointing solution v1.0 obtained and loaded ~00.30 UT 8 June 2011.

blog:katherine_temperature_humidity_sensors

2014-07-29T01:43:16+00:00

Katherine temperature & humidity sensors The temperature and humidity sensors in the Katherine control and maser rooms have been recalibrated using the data from the loggers (24/7/14, ~1030 UT). Data from Monica recorded before this time can be rescaled using the formulae below:

blog:ke_fs_upgraded_to_9.11.4

2013-10-03T04:03:20+00:00

Ke FS upgraded to 9.11.4 Notes are here: Ke 9.11.1 to 9.11.4

blog:ke_pointing_check

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Ke pointing check Pointing check prior to R4487 on Virgo and 1921-293: No offset in xEl, but a +0.09 deg offset in El P7 was 0.3822. Updated to 0.3822+0.09 = 0.4722

blog:ke_pointing_check_5_8_2014

2014-08-05T23:01:33+00:00

Ke pointing check 5/8/2014 Overnight pointing run. 113 observations. Looks good. On the raw data, pdplt reports: xEL mean 0.0015 deg xEL rms 0.0095 deg El mean -0.0076 deg El rms 0.012 deg ke pointing

blog:ke_pointing_check_2011_jun_21

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Ke pointing check 2011 Jun 21 Pointing on Taurus, then 0537-441. Found 0.04 deg el offset. P7 adjusted in model from 0.4722 to 0.5122 katherine ke pointing

blog:ke_pointing_update

2012-06-21T06:31:32+00:00

Ke pointing update Pointing offset of ~-0.04 deg seen in Elevation. Updated parameter P7 as follows prior to R4538: P7 = 0.5194 - 0.04 = 0.4794

blog:lo_lock_problem_at_yg

2014-03-18T22:03:21+00:00

LO Lock Problem at Yg LO became unlocked at different Az positions during r1610. Randall inspected the twister cable and found one had a kink. It also made a grinding noise if flexed. The problem was just below a hoop in the twister. That length of cable was suspected to be Heliax. It was the 100MHz cable to the LO. That length has been temporarily replaced with a piece of LMR400 that was also in the loom. The loss of LO lock problem seems to have gone away and the R1610YG experiment has contin…

blog:log_monitor_26m_support_and_recorder_status

2015-08-11T05:02:46+00:00

Log monitor 26m support and recorder status The log monitor now knows about the 26m by default and will ring a local alarm if run from ops1hb. The log monitor also shows the recorder status and scan name. Recorder status is obtained by noticing the disk_record command. It doesn't actually know for sure if the Mark5 is running but just reports what the recorder should be doing, so always check dimino and the cameras to be absolutely sure!

blog:log_monitor_now_checks_for_fs_activity

2014-06-22T02:01:18+00:00

log monitor now checks for FS activity The PCFS Log monitor now checks the Field System log to see when the last entry was. If it's more than 15 mins ago it will ring a beep every 2 seconds as this is a possible sign that the Field System software has dies or that the network has dropped out.

blog:log_monitor_tracks_dbbc_delay_jumps

2015-06-02T01:52:10+00:00

Log monitor tracks DBBC delay jumps If there is a change in delay through the DBBC then the Log Monitor will now ring an alarm. If the new delay offset is stable then you don’t need to do anything, but if it drifts, a DBBC reset may be required. So it’s still necessary to dump and plot the delay offset data regularly but you will now get an audible warning every time the delay through the DBBC changes.

blog:log_monitor_updated

2015-08-20T04:29:16+00:00

Log monitor updated The log monitor has had a major update. New features: * The station name is more prominent * The name of the current scan is given * Current disk usage and data recorded in previous scan are given * A disk volume offset can be set. This is useful when comparing to predicted data volumes from the summary file in the case, for example of a module being changed part way through an experiment, or appending to a module with another experiment on it.

blog:loggin_of_met4a_in_pcfs_at_yg

2012-05-16T05:11:49+00:00

Logging of MET4A in PCFS at Yg The MET4A weather station is now being monitored and logged by pcfsyg. Software installation notes can be found [here]. Weather data (temp, humid, pressure) are logged in /usr2/log/wx/, can be examined by typing wth (or wx) in the Field System while it's running.

blog:mark5_upgrade_for_cont14

2014-03-20T05:31:54+00:00

Mark5 upgrade for CONT14 The firmware/software upgrade to the Mark5A and Mark5B+ units has been carried out for mkv, mk5hb and mk5yg. The new version seems to have some compatibility issues with previously recorded modules - DirList gives all scan pointers as zero. For this reason, mk5streamhb has not been upgraded, in order to be able to easily read pre-March 19 modules (AUST19,AUST20,ohig)? The new version of fuseMk5 can work with the new UserDir size but has not been tested.

blog:mark5b_firmware_upgrade

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Mark5B firmware upgrade After upadting the mark5B software (following the instructions found at ) problems were still seen using scan_check on the 6 TB SATA drives. To correct this, I ipgraded the Mark5B firmware from 12.41 to 15.30, following Dan Smythe's instructions. Several environment variables had to be set and have been included in oper's .bashrc file.

blog:maser_to_yarragadee

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Maser to Yarragadee The NASA Cesium clock used for the SLR at Yarragadee has died, so we've offered to send a maser (which will become the standard for the whole site). We will send the maser around April 15 and Brett will travel to Yarragadee to install it.

blog:met4_repair_at_yg

2016-07-31T23:56:10+00:00

MET4 repair at Yg The humidity sensor on the MET4 isn't working and is going off for repair. On pcfsyg as root: pcfsyg:/etc/init.d# update-rc.d -f metclient.sh remove pcfsyg:/etc/init.d# update-rc.d -f metserver.sh remove pcfsyg:/etc/init.d# ./metserver.sh stop pcfsyg:/etc/init.d# ./metclient.sh stop

blog:mini-tow_has_started

2012-06-11T23:41:17+00:00

Mini-Tow has started The mini-TOW has started yg ke hb

blog:mk5streamhb_upgraded_to_dimino_v3.0.2

2014-04-03T00:31:19+00:00

mk5streamhb upgraded to DIMino v3.0.2 mkstreamhb was upgraded to DIMino v3.0.2 and has had the firware upgrade. Thus was done after all the current stock of pre-upgrade, short-DirList modules had been transferred to RAID.

blog:mk5yg_upgraded_power_supply

2014-07-02T09:27:29+00:00

Mk5Yg Upgraded Power Supply The 500W power supply in mk5yg was replaced with a 1000W model identical to the one in mk5-2yg on 2/7/2014 @ 0400UT. Unfortunately only have one 16TB on-site at present so full check out will have to wait.

blog:mt_pleasant_switch_to_vremya_maser_2013_dec_2_01.00_ut

2014-03-18T22:58:25+00:00

Mt Pleasant switch to Vremya maser 2013 Dec 2, 01.00 UT Whole observatory moved to Vremya maser at approx 01.00 UT on Dec 2, 2013

blog:negative_tsys_at_katherine_-_dbbcnn_util.c

2015-08-04T14:30:51+00:00

Negative Tsys at Katherine - dbbcnn_util.c After the upgrade to fs 9.11.7, negative tsys values were being reported for Ke. This is due to the DBBC at Katherine reversing the order of the the calon/caloff data in the bread output. The dbbcnn_util.c file in /usr2/fs/clib was edited as in fs-9.11.6 and the FS rebuilt to work around this issue.

blog:new_cables

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

New cables Yesterday we installed some new cables. hobart cables

blog:new_dbbc_if_power_targets

2012-05-14T00:38:32+00:00

New DBBC IF power targets During the NZ trip, Gino advised us that the DBBC performance could be improved by adjusting the DBBCIF power targets. The recommended method was to adjust the IF powers by changing the attenuation to maximise the apparent aplitude of a tone in the BBC channels. This has been carried out for Hb, Ke and Yg, using the pcal tones as a reference. The improvement in apparent magnitude (as estimated through Haystack's bpcal software) ranges between ~30 - 300% over the defaul…

blog:new_ifbox_servers_for_hb_ke_and_yg

2015-09-03T05:46:51+00:00

New IFBox servers for Hb, Ke and Yg A new version of the IFBox server has been written and installed at Hb, Ke and Yg. It should be more robust than the previous version and reduce the number of spurious “odd response from the pic” messages. The new software is /usr2/AuscopeUtils/monitoring/PIC_interfaces/Monica.IFBox.Sep2015.py - the /etc/init.d/Monica.IFBox scripts have been updated to use this from now on.

blog:new_met_station_and_server_at_katherine

2016-10-19T05:12:01+00:00

New MET station and server at Katherine Ryan Ruddick from GA has replaced the GPS receiver at Katherine with a newer “Trimble” unit on 131.217.61.6. This features a web interface that is mostly javascript unfortunately which the existing wthKe.sh script cannot parse. A truly horrible lash-up has been created on dell2ke.phys.utas.edu.au [the UPS monitor PC] which opens firefox to load the siteand save the webpage as html, before extracting the MET data to a text file. This file is then copied to…

blog:new_pointing_model_v4.0_at_hb

2013-02-20T23:22:35+00:00

New pointing model (v4.0) at Hb The Hobart12 pointing model has been updated. There was a slight elevation offset, -0.03 deg, at elevations above ~30 deg that has been removed. Model updated in the field system and HMI. More detailed notes are here:

blog:new_s-band_filters_at_yg

2013-04-03T02:10:11+00:00

New S-band filters at Yg Randall has installed the new S-band notch filters at Yg to replace the (loaned) diplexer. Tests today measuring Tsys with the antenna pointed directly at the USN antenna while transmitting and not, and while pointing away from the antenna suggest that the new filters are doing a good job. A spike off the lower-band edge is seen but it only reaches a maximum of the unfiltered band. Occasional in-band RFI is seen but this is present even when USN is not transmitting and …

blog:new_server_names

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

New Server Names All users please note that the server which has been used to control the HB experiments has been renamed from pcfsya to pcfshb. All other operations should be unchanged.

blog:new_versions_of_log_monitor_and_float_auscope.pl

2015-08-06T06:05:56+00:00

New versions of log monitor and flogit_auscope.pl The log monitor now supports the newer SMS messaging system and will ring an alarm when there's a wind stow. flogit_auscope.pl has been updated to use the new @list email addresses software

blog:new_yg_dbbc_power_levels

2013-01-31T01:02:22+00:00

New Yg DBBC power levels Following testing on Yg DBBC, new phase and target power levels: Phase 103 86 80 105 Target powers (S-band lower (CoMo C) changed only) 26000 26000 35000 31000 Default config files updated accordingly

blog:ntp_servers_updated_on_fs_and_mk5_machines

2015-08-20T06:10:38+00:00

NTP servers updated on FS and Mk5 machines The list of NTP servers has been updated on the field system and Mk5 computers. All have had the following servers added: 0.pool.ntp.org 1.pool.ntp.org 2.pool.ntp.org 3.pool.ntp.org Procedure: su vi /etc/ntp.conf (added the listed servers) /etc/init.d/ntp restart

blog:on_off_position_flag

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

ON/OFF Position Flag 1630 UT 19 March. Starting tests on the 12m antenna to investigate the reported ON/OFF position flag problem. Will notify when finished with the antenna.

blog:pointing

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Pointing More pointing observations were completed yesterday (March 17) although the cloudy weather made observations difficult for weaker sources. I am attempting to obtain a new solution but more observations may be required.

blog:pointing_check_before_r1474

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Pointing check before r1474 Checked X-band pointing on three sources (3C454.3, 0537-441, 3C446) Source Az El xEl offset (deg) EL offset (deg) 3C454.3 -38 23 -0.01 -0.025 0537-441 114 45 0 -0.01 3C446 -60 35 -0.015 -0.035 Average

blog:pointing_check_on_hb_11_april_2011

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Pointing check on Hb 11 April 2011 Prior to r1478, observed 1921-293 at X-band, (az,el) = (-92.95, 43.40). Offsets were: xEl = -0.015 El = -0.01

blog:pointing_model_for_katherine_after_vgos_upgrade

2019-09-11T10:07:53+00:00

Pointing model for Katherine after VGOS upgrade After the receiver upgrade at Katherine, methanol maser observations (using methgain.sh on flexbuffke) indicated significant pointing offsets in both Az and El. After 24 hours of observing the data were combined into a MATLAB file and a new incremental pointing model was fitted to the offsets. The combined Pointing model values were then calculated and a new mdlpo.ctl file was created and tested on pcfske. The result has been a reduction in median…

blog:pointing_model_v2

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Pointing model v2 I've been working on a pointing model with more observational constraints. A new version was entered today and the two test observations following installation look promising. I'll make some more test observations tomorrow, then update the pointing section of the wiki.

blog:r1474_observation

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

R1474 Observation During the R1474 observations on the 16th March 2011 a problem was encountered. The autocorrelation plot looked like the one in the example that can usually be safely ignored see (here). This was misinterpreted by the observer as an issue with the dbbc. Further investigation showed dimino to not be running. A restart of dimino did nothing to improve the situation. Furthermore there were then errors reported on pmstalmhb to do with being unable to contact the mk5.

blog:r1490_preparation

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

R1490 preparation Yarragadee: Pointing checked and model updated IFBox 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 144 187 66 4 RFbox 15.05 11.91 4.93 20.59 0.00 0.00 0.00 11.90 15.05 14.99 11.84 11.76 14.78 11.68 28.68 54.38 25.34 21.38 1020.00 4.69 5.08 AUTO Crossed Direct

blog:r4447_experiment_notes

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

R4447 experiment notes The r4447 experiment is the first IVS schedule using the new receiver & refurbished DBBC. The schedule is currently running with only some minor problems/issues. A full description of how the experiment was set and, and the regular checks undertaken during the experiment is

blog:revised_hobart26_windstow_limits

2014-05-13T06:07:30+00:00

Revised Hobart26 windstow limits The Hobart26 has a problem with the Y-bearing which makes observing in windy conditions hazardous. In addition, its wind sensor seems to be underestimating the current windspeed. To work around these problems, two scripts are running on hobart (WindLog.sh & WindStow.sh) to log the windspeed readings from the Hobart12 wind sensor, and to stow the dish when a windspeed > 35 km/h is detected.

blog:rf_cross-over_switch_test

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

RF cross-over switch test Confirmed, by talking over the serial port to RF unit, that S and X-band cross-over switches can be controlled and appear to work as expected. Test carried out by observing how amplitude of a tone changed when switches were toggled.

blog:rf_service

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

RF service Yesterday Jim and I removed the mylar window over the feed. We inspected for moisture and found none. We also performed the following operations: * Sealed the S-band loop couplers with Araldite * tightened a few loose SMA connectors in the downconverter box.

blog:rxmon_timeout_now_rings_the_alarm

2015-06-01T23:24:07+00:00

rxmon timeout now rings the alarm If connection with rxmon fails with this error message: ERROR s5 -104 rfpcn: time-out, connection closed ... then the log monitor will ring an alarm. This change was made by adding the text “S5 -104 ALARM” to /usr2/control.[hb|ke|yg]/alarm_actions.txt on ops2 etc.

blog:s-band_diplexer_installed_at_yg

2012-09-08T01:31:47+00:00

S-Band Diplexer installed at Yg A borrowed s-band diplexer has been installed (06-09-12) in between the SRCP LNA and the RF Box SRCP In. It filters out the s-band uplink RFI from USN's AUWA01 13m antenna. See the Delta Microwave webpage for details of the S5933 diplexer:

blog:s-band_lnas_correctly_labelled_and_cabled_-_yg

2012-09-08T01:31:16+00:00

S-Band LNAs correctly labelled and cabled - Yg 7/9/2012 - The S-Band LNA that was labelled & colour cable tagged previously as RCP was discovered by Jamie to be LCP during fringe checks (with the diplexer in circuit). The LNA cables have now been swapped and LNAs relabelled. The LCP power cable has been left unplugged for now.

blog:safety_relay_and_feed_re-seal

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Safety Relay and feed re-seal I am taking the cherry picker to the antenna now, Fri 19th March 0245 UT. I shall be performing the Safety Relay - Manual to Automatic Restart - modification so that we do not need to go to the antenna to restart it after a power fault. I shall also use the cherry picker and go to the feed and replace the temporary duct tape preventing water ingress, pending the replacement feed coming. The antenna will be free for use after 4.00 pm, or call me if you need it earli…

blog:setcl_calls_all_sites

2013-04-04T03:20:02+00:00

setcl calls (all sites) Removed call to “run setcl offset &” from preob at all three sites following advice from Rich Strand hb ke yg

blog:sml01_control

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

SML01 control The fs-based control of the SML01 over the GPIB bus has been implemented. The created functions are: * smlclear: reset the device. * smlstat: report on the current frequency, power level, and rf on/off status. * smlfreq: set a frequency (in

blog:sntp_server_at_yarragadee

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

SNTP server at Yarragadee The CNS II clock is now installed at Yarragadee. It acts as an SNTP server with IP address 131.217.61.70 (cnssyg). The telescope controller has been given this address and seems happy with it. It looks like someone (Brett?) has also changed this to be the SNTP server for the windows PC too.

blog:software_update

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Software Update 1945 UT 21 Sept 2010 Starting an update to the Hobart 12m Antenna Controller. Should take no more than one hour. Will notify when complete. Mark Godwin

blog:software_update_complete

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Software Update Complete 1958 UTC 21 Sep 2010 The software update is finished. Mark Godwin

blog:software_update_to_katherine_12m_antenna_controller

2013-11-03T09:02:07+00:00

Software Update to Katherine 12m Antenna Controller 2 November 0953 UT Starting software update now. 1130 UT Software update complete. Now monitoring clock for several hours. Will advise when complete. 3 November 0900 UT Clock monitoring complete. Finished with antenna.

blog:software_update_to_yarragadee_12m_antenna

2013-11-01T22:50:31+00:00

Software Update to Yarragadee 12m Antenna 1 Nov 2013 21:17 UT Starting update now. 22:49 UT Controller update complete.

blog:station.prc_and_mk5ad.ctl_at_yg

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

station.prc and mk5ad.ctl at Yg Same station.prc midob change done and 0.5 sec timeout to Mk5 done (same as Hb).

blog:station.prc_changed_at_hb

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

station.prc changed at hb Added a 1 sec wait before the setcl and a mk5=dot? before the setcl too.

blog:status_update_5_may_2010

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Status update 5 May 2010 Here’s an update on how things are going with the AuScope project: * Delivery of the first new feed (for Hobart) is slated for the end of June. This will include a new feed tube which is wider than the present one. We can expect 2 or 3 people from Patriot to visit for this work. I’m expecting it will take two to three weeks to install, test and hopefully accept it. If it works, Patriot will build two more and install them at Yarragadee and Katherine. Installation at…

blog:stuck_bits_at_ke

2014-05-26T00:30:07+00:00

Stuck bits at Ke MK5-2ke shows a stuck bit in channel 15. First noticed 22 May and may have been persistent throughout CONT14. Autocorrelations show this in 1-bit data but not 2-bit. Removing connector at mk5 end, cleaning and re-seating didn't fix the problem. Continuing to investigate..

blog:tsys_logger

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Tsys logger There is a new program in /usr2/st/tsys which will load in the /tmp/systemp12 file and insert the values at tsysS and tsysX into the experiment log. A call to this function replaces the old system of inserting the values as a comment in the systemp12_rcp.sh and systemp12.sh scripts.

blog:update_to_hobart_12m_controller_software

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Update to Hobart 12m Controller Software 1430 UT 20 Sept 2010 I'm about to install a minor update to the Controller Software on the Hobart 12m Antenna. Will notify when complete. Mark Godwin

blog:updated_monica.rxmon_server

2015-06-02T02:17:07+00:00

Updated Monica.Rxmon server A new version of the Monica.Rxmon server is in use on pcfshb. It has been re-written in Python and should handle concurrent requests better which should avoid the rfpic problems.

blog:updated_preob_at_hb

2015-06-17T00:02:38+00:00

Updated preob at Hb The default preob procedure (in station.prc) at Hb has been updated to comment out the “!*” and “!*+4s” lines. This mat help in reducing the amount of time lost due to the recorder stating late.

blog:ups_checks

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

UPS checks A test to see if the two UPS units in rack 14 can keep the DBBC, PCFS, Mark5B, IF unit running in the event of a power failure. Power was removed to the UPS powering the DBBC and PCFS for 2 min. No interruption to either unit was seen. Similarly, the test was run on the UPS powering the Mark5B equipment and IF unit, and was successful.

blog:wind_stow_recovery_and_0-360_az_tracking

2015-08-06T01:53:56+00:00

Wind stow recovery and 0-360 Az tracking Modifications from Ed Himwich to 12m Field System software have been made to fix issues with the antenna recovering from a wind stow. Testing was successful and changes have been propagated by Ed to all three sites.

blog:x-band_signal_path_at_yg

2012-05-02T03:09:51+00:00

X-band signal path at Yg Brett and Randall have re-wired the X-band cables in the feed tube, made sure the colours correct and checked the LNAs are correctly labeled for polarisation. Moved the X-band cross-over switch to Direct (note RFBox interface shows it to be crossed, but it's not!)

blog:yarragadee_antenna_servicing_december_2015

2015-12-15T01:22:21+00:00

Yarragadee antenna servicing, December 2015 From Jack: This is to let you know that the VLBI antenna on the 13/14th December had the following work done 1. Az bullgear old grease removed - new grease applied. 2. El jack screw cover was removed and more new grease applied to the jack screw arm. The jack screw cover itself was cleaned but is in need of replacing very soon. It would be good to get this done when Brett is over next. Also I need to check the gear box oil and or maybe change the o…

blog:yarragadee_antenna_servicing_nov_2013

2013-11-12T00:51:20+00:00

Yarragadee antenna servicing Nov 2013 Nov 10: Jack Paff reports: Hi Jim, I have completed servicing your antenna today which included greasing the AZ bullgear, El screw jack, all grease points outside and inside the pedestal. Also Applied UV protection to El screw jack cover. I would suggest you have someone test the antenna before the next experiment to make sure nothing has been disturbed during the servicing.

blog:yarragadee_limit_testing_7_april_2011

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yarragadee limit testing 7 April 2011 New pointing solutions have been installed: P1 = -0.0058 P2 = 0 P3 = 0.0142 P4 = 0.0114 P5 = -0.0081 P7 = 0 P8 = -0.0265 P9 = -0.001 and drive offsets (20.21 in az and el) set to 0.1141 deg and -3.5933 deg respectively.

blog:yarragadee_pointing

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yarragadee pointing Pointing observations made at X-band, on 9/5/11 after the R4481 experiment. Measured pointing offsets of ~0.08 degrees in El (no significant offset in X-El) on 1921-293 (Az,El = -100, 44) and ~0.1 degrees in EL and ~0.05 degrees in X-El on 30 DOR (Az,El = 156,23). The pointing errors are causing a loss of ~50% of the power at X-band. The pointing errors measured on 5/5/11 previous to R4481 showed no significant errors (<0.03 degrees in El) on Northern sources with slightly w…

blog:yarragadee_pointing_check_5_july_2011

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yarragadee pointing check 5 July 2011 Check on 0537-441 (following a similar check on Tau A and 0537-441 yesterday). Offsets have not changed significantly: xEL = 0 El = 0.135 New P7 = 0.8190 + 0.135 = 0.954 Loaded at 04:20 UT (day 186).

blog:yarragadee_pointing_check_21_june_2011

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yarragadee pointing check 21 June 2011 Observed on Taurus A and confirmed on 0537-441. Offset in El is 0.045 deg. Negligible xEl offset. New param P7 loaded into pointing model: P7 = 0.774 + 0.045 = 0.819

blog:yarragadee_pointing_model_v1.0

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yarragadee pointing model v1.0 Following pointing observations by Jamie over the weekend, a new model has been calculated. RMS in xEl is 10 mdeg, in El it's 15 mdeg. New solutions loaded at 03:30 UT.

blog:yarragadee_rack

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yarragadee configuration IF patching is now back to default. 7 x 6 TB modules left. On June 19, The Rim to shield distance with no pointing corrections selected is 3282.5 mm

blog:yg_data_link

2013-09-11T06:06:53+00:00

Yg Data Link The NanoStation/ADSL link went down on Sunday 25th August. The problem is at the Mingenew end, up the mast. A replacement NanoStation has been ordered for if the existing unit is damaged irreparably. It was fixed on the Wednesday following with a new NanoStation. The guy wires will need replacing because of corrosion.

blog:yg_dbbc_como_b_config

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yg DBBC CoMo B config The target level for CoMo B on the Yg DBBC is now 45000 which is in the linear range.

blog:yg_dbbc_repairs

2013-05-30T05:05:14+00:00

Yg DBBC repairs The Yg DBBC has had its repaired boards installed. A IF cable swap was made on May 29. For the week prior to this, no useful upper X-band or lower S-band data would have been received. Clock jumps look to be due to earthing issues in the VSI connection. Resolving this is a work in progress

blog:yg_elevation_offset_measurement_investigation_13_may_2011

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yg elevation offset measurement/investigation 13 May 2011 Notes from Brett Reid: I Drove antenna to position setpoint Az/El -200,10 Randall measured from a point on lower rim of dish to a pont on heatshield edge. 3388mm Drove to Az/El -200,10.1 degrees Measured distance again. 3399mm Determined a change of 0.1 degrees in El produces a 11mm change in length.

blog:yg_encoder_offsets_and_lower_el_limit

2012-05-03T04:15:51+00:00

Yg encoder offsets and Lower El limit P7 model parameter (El encoder offset) was taken out and put into the controller parameter 1.20.21. Tape measure test before and after confirms that the sign was correct (difference of 1mm before and after). Also moved soft El limit to 5.0 degrees and tested hard limits weren't tripped in velocity mode for either high or low limits.

blog:yg_equipment_room_partition

2013-08-02T10:45:02+00:00

Yg Equipment room partition 2013 August 1 A new sliding glass door partition has been installed in the equipment room alongside the eastern most rack. Equipment noise has now been greatly reduced in the operations area and the equipment area temperature stability should be improved.

blog:yg_field_system_software_update

2013-06-06T06:35:54+00:00

Yg Field System software update I’ve upgraded the PCFS software at Yg to the latest version (9.11.2) and also the station-specific version (st-0.0.1-9.10.5_ifpic). It looks OK on testing except for the following: * systemp12 is still producing nonsensical results * ifpic reports values back as expected but it can’t be used to change things. I think this is a bug that’s been fixed elsewhere but not propagated to Yg. Setting an attenuation from the FS (e.g. ifpic=*,*,10,10,7,7) always gives an “…

blog:yg_fringe_check_18_april_2011

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yg fringe check 18 April 2011 Schedule file yghb2 First good data on all three antennas, nominal pol: 108-0126 01:29 crossed pols 01:45 DBBC spectra look bad! Reconfig! 01:51 OK now but no phase cal tones 108-0207 : crossed pol at Yg 02:08 pols swapped back

blog:yg_fs_upgraded_to_9.11.4

2013-10-02T03:57:11+00:00

Yg FS upgraded to 9.11.4 FS software at Yg has been upgraded to 9.11.4 Detailed notes are here yg

blog:yg_h-maser_tuning

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yg H-maser tuning Subtracted 231 counts from freq synthesiser to correct maser rate (fast) of 20 nanoseconds per day. Performed at163/0014. New synthesiser value is 55592 E-15. Added 1041 counts to freq synthesiser to correct maser rate (slow) of 90 nanoseconds per day following cavity tune. Synthesiser adjustment performed at 155/1315 UT. The new value is 55823. The maser now leads GPS by 10.33 microseconds.

blog:yg_pointing_2011_may_23

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yg pointing 2011 May 23 Pointing observations show a +0.19 deg offset in El, nothing in xEl. No correction made to model at this stage.

blog:yg_pointing_2011_may_25

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Yg pointing 2011 May 25 El offset was seen to be 0.215 deg. New model loaded into controller with this offset

blog:yg_pointing_check_5_8_2014

2014-08-05T23:09:34+00:00

Yg pointing check 5/8/2014 Antenna has a +0.04 deg elevation offset. pdplt reports the following on raw data (207 points): xEL mean 0.006 xEL rms 0.010 El mean 0.0442 El rms 0.008 After solution applied: xEL rms 0.011 El rms 0.010 yg pointing

blog:yg_pointing_model_update

2011-10-26T06:37:12+00:00

Ke Pointing model update Using the FS and fivpt-like script (~oper/Pointing.sh), pointing observations made of 30 DOR, 3C279, 3C120, 3C161, ESO075 - G041, ESO212-EN006, Hydra, Virgo and Pictor A. A new pointing was generated from this, and is included below.

blog:yg_pointing_update

2012-07-16T03:53:12+00:00

Yg pointing update The pointing for Yarragadee has been updated following a pointing run. Tests after uploading it show good pointing (errors < 0.02 degrees). The new model parameters are P1 = -0.0443 P2 = 0.0239 P3 = 0.0322 P4 = 0.0055 P5 = 0.0008 P7 = 0.0343 P8 = -0.0155 P9 = 0.0040

blog:yg_x-band_plate_swap

2011-12-07T02:48:28+00:00

Yg X-band plate swap The X-band receiver plate has been swapped with the spare at Yg. There are currently no High-end radar filters installed.

blog:ygo_x-band_radar_has_returned

2014-07-03T05:26:09+00:00

YGO X-Band Radar has Returned The SLR aircraft avoidance radar was returned to service at the start of July. The radar transmits at 9410 Mhz, is slaved to the SLR telescope and transmits down to 8.5 degrees.