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Added pre-conditions
What follows is a complete set of instructions for completing a long-distance test (of any length) with the current [[Optical Communications]] transmitter/receiver node system.
What follows is a complete set of instructions for completing a long-distance test (of any length) with the current [[Optical Communications]] transmitter/receiver node system.
== What You'll Need ==
== Decide to Test ==
'''Step 1:''' Check the weather for the two test sites and make a fog prediction. Using the [http://aprs.fi/#!lat=37.41780&lng=-122.17200| Automated Packet Reporting System] check station KG6UWN for fog-forming factors upwind of Skyline: temperature and dew point within 5 degrees of each other, high humidity, and unfavorable wind direction (i.e. towards Skyline). Also check station EW4825 for the current conditions close to Skyline. <br>
''Optional: Check for [https://www.aviationweather.gov/| METAR] reports at local airports: KHAF, KMRY, KSNS, and KWVI.''<br>
'''Step 2:''' If Step 1 returns favorable results, book two Zipcars for an appropriate time window. Testing will usually run from 7pm until midnight, but allow room for a later return as you likely will not have cell reception at Skyline.
== Get Organized ==
Before heading out to test, ensure that you have the following pieces of equipment: <br>
Before heading out to test, ensure that you have the following pieces of equipment: <br>
1) '''Transmit/receive [[OpComms System IV|node]].''' Ensure that the laser, photodetector, control board, and BNC connection between sensor and board are all present. <br>
1) '''Transmit/receive [[OpComms System IV|node]].''' Ensure that the laser, photodetector, control board, and BNC connection between sensor and board are all present. <br>
4) '''Keysight oscilloscope.''' Have Sasha or Elizabeth unlock an oscilloscope from the toolbox. Guard it with your life. <br>
4) '''Keysight oscilloscope.''' Have Sasha or Elizabeth unlock an oscilloscope from the toolbox. Guard it with your life. <br>
5) '''Test bin.''' Must contain toolbox, extension cords, power supplies, and motorized alt/az mount. Use a dry-erase marker to complete the Test Checklist posted on the lid of the bin. If all of the contents are present you may proceed <br>
5) '''Test bin.''' Must contain toolbox, extension cords, power supplies, and motorized alt/az mount. Use a dry-erase marker to complete the Test Checklist posted on the lid of the bin. If all of the contents are present you may proceed <br>
6) '''Radios.''' Each group will need one Baofeng transceiver, to be used by a licensed amateur radio operator. These radios live on the left side of the shelves above the EE workbench in MC and should be on their chargers when not in use. Tune both radios to a quiet radio frequency (good range: 445.000-447.000, try 446.200) and test communications down the hallway. While driving to your test locations, remember to periodically check in with the other group to confirm that the connection is good.
6) '''Headlamps.''' If you're testing over 10km ([[Skyline Boulevard Overlook|Skyline Boulevard]] and [[W6YX]]), you'll need a headlamp or flashlight for each group. There are 2 flashlights that live on the side of the toolchest in MC.
== Set Up ==
== Set Up ==
''Head home. If you're driving back from Skyline Boulevard, you probably want to stop at Secret Safeway and get some ice cream :)''
''Head home. If you're driving back from Skyline Boulevard, you probably want to stop at Secret Safeway and get some ice cream :)''
== Back Home ==
== At Home ==
Upload your photos and data to Google Drive, in a folder with today's date and the test location. You'll also probably want to debrief to interpret test results and figure out next steps. If the test was significant, write a blog post about it.
'''Step 1:''' Store test bins, tripod, and transmit/receive nodes on the shelves above the EE benches in MC. <br>
'''Step 2:''' Ask Sasha or Elizabeth to lock the oscilloscopes to the toolchest. <br>
'''Step 3:''' Return radio transceivers to their chargers. <br>
'''Step 4:''' Upload your photos and data to Google Drive, in a folder with today's date and the test location.
You'll also probably want to debrief to interpret test results and figure out next steps. If the test was significant, write a blog post about it.
[[Category:Optical Communications]]
[[Category:Optical Communications]]