You are on page 1of 8

Micro-control as ”Operator’s manual for MC-3-6” Page 1 of 9

Operator’s manual MC-3-6

Document number
MAN-05-004

MAN-05-004 Rev. 1
Micro-control as ”Operator’s manual for MC-3-6” Page 2 of 9

Table of Contents
1. General information....................................................................................................................... 3
1.1 The main parts of the system ................................................................................................... 3
1.2 Security..................................................................................................................................... 3
1.3 Environment.............................................................................................................................. 3
1.4 Warranty ................................................................................................................................... 4
1.5 Installation................................................................................................................................. 4
1.6 Documentation ......................................................................................................................... 4
2. Operating instructions .................................................................................................................. 5
2.1 Terminal.................................................................................................................................... 5
2.1.1 Operating the terminal....................................................................................................... 5
2.1.2 Maintenance of batteries ................................................................................................... 5
2.1.3 Maintenance of the operating handles, buttons and cleaning .......................................... 6
2.1.4 Errors................................................................................................................................. 6
2.1.5 Technical data ................................................................................................................... 6
2.2 Base unit................................................................................................................................... 6
2.2.1 Maintenance ...................................................................................................................... 7
2.2.2 Errors................................................................................................................................. 7
2.2.3 Technical data ................................................................................................................... 7
3. Options ........................................................................................................................................... 7
3.1 Cable communication / RS-485 interface................................................................................. 7
3.2 Test equipment ......................................................................................................................... 7
3.3 Display ...................................................................................................................................... 7
3.4 Adjustment possibilities ............................................................................................................ 7
3.4.1 MIN / MAX programming of analog functions ................................................................... 7
3.4.2 MICRO............................................................................................................................... 8
3.5 Neck strap/bandoleer ............................................................................................................... 8

MAN-05-004 Rev. 1
Micro-control as ”Operator’s manual for MC-3-6” Page 3 of 9

1. General information
1.1 The main parts of the system
An MC-3-6 system mainly consists of the following parts:
• Terminal - the part of the system that the operator carries.
• Carrying belt - is fixed to the terminal and then fastened to the operator's waist.
• Battery - placed in the terminal and supplies it with energy.
• Battery charger - recharges the battery after it is used.
• Base unit - the system's unit that is connected to a machine/PLS.
• Antenna - is placed directly at the base unit or connected via an antenna cable.

Terminal

2 Batteries Antenna Base unit

+ -

5
M C3

Battery charger
1.2 Security
The MC-3-6 system is produced to ensure reliable control of machines. The following security
functions are built into each MC-3-6 system:
• A unique serial number for each system.
• A check-sum in the data transmission; ensures that the system only treats valid data.
• The terminal is a robust plastic box; protects the equipment against shocks and other
environmental influences.
• A protecting frame; protects the operator's panel.
• Double monitoring of joysticks.
• An activity check during start-up to prevent the terminal from starting if an error occurs on a
switch/joystick, or if the operator has not turned off a security-critical function.
• Self-checking functions and continuous monitoring have been built in to ensure that the
equipment is set to a fail-safe condition.

MC-3-6 is constructed in accordance with the Low Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC), the EMC-Directive
(89/336/EEC) and the Machinery Directive (89/392/EEC, 91/368, 93/44/EEC). However, to prevent
accidents, it is important that the operator is familiar with the machine (s)he is controlling, and has
gone through the necessary training in using of the remote control MC-3-6.
1.3 Environment
The MC-3-6 system is produced for industrial use, all the system components have been tested in
surroundings with a temperature between -25°C and +70°C. With temperatures below 0°C, the
working time of the battery is shortened.
The case has been tested to protect against dust and water. Both the terminal and the base unit
achieve least ingress protection to IP-65 (optionally the terminal can have an IP-67 classification).

MAN-05-004 Rev. 1
Micro-control as ”Operator’s manual for MC-3-6” Page 4 of 9

All the components that are exposed to wear and tear are selected to maximize the lifetime of MC-3-
6. Micro-control is constantly evaluating new components to give our customers the best products at
the market at any time.

1.4 Warranty
All the deliveries are thoroughly tested and packed before they leave Micro-control. If the delivery is
damaged in some way when it is unwrapped, the transport agency must immediately be informed.
Micro-control does not cover any damages caused during transport or by wrong use of the
equipment.
All the systems are delivered with 1 year’s warranty against material and manufacturing faults. The
warranty covers repairs executed at Micro-control. Any travelling expense due to service at the
customer's place is not covered.
A representative from Micro-control must execute all the repairs of the equipment. If the user himself
modifies the equipment, the guarantee is not valid.
It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that all the operators have the sufficient training.

1.5 Installation
The base unit must be connected to the machine according to the enclosed wiring diagram. The
antenna type for MC-3-6 is chosen to give sufficient operating distance, the environment is taken into
consideration. If the base unit is equipped with an external antenna, the enclosed installation
description must be followed during installation.
The operation distance should be tested after installation to ensure that the operator has sufficient
range. If the operation distance is not sufficient, the following must be considered:
• The antenna type
• Where the antenna is placed
• The length of the antenna cable
1.6 Documentation
The complete documentation of an MC-3-6 system consists of the following documents:
• Operator's manual
• Service manual
• Delivery specific manuals
• Module specifications
• Wiring diagram
• Bill of materials, connections and configuration sheets

The operator's manual gives general information that applies to any MC-3-6 system. The additional
manuals are appendixes to the operator's manual, and consist of specific information that may vary
for each delivery.
The service manual is a troubleshooting manual for an MC-3-6 system. It describes some of the
errors that may occur and all the error messages.
The delivery specific manuals contain documents that are adapted to a specific delivery. It normally
contains:
• The user's manual for the battery charger
• An installation description for the base unit’s external antenna.
• If necessary, manuals for modules not produced by Micro-control.

The module specifications give detailed information on all the system modules produced by Micro-
control.

MAN-05-004 Rev. 1
Micro-control as ”Operator’s manual for MC-3-6” Page 5 of 9

The wiring diagram describes how the base unit and the terminal are connected, and the layout of the
terminal's front plate.
A bill of materials is an overview of all the parts of which a delivery consists. Micro-control's order
number is given for all the parts. The list of connections shows how screw terminals/contacts are
connected. The configuration sheet shows how our modules are configured with jumpers and links.

2. Operating instructions
2.1 Terminal
All the MC-3-6 terminals are produced in accordance with the customer's specifications and the use
of the terminal will vary from delivery to delivery. The enclosed wiring diagram describes how the
terminal is connected and shows the layout of the front plate.
This document deals with MC-3-6 generally, and special instructions in the use of the terminal can
therefore not be given here. The functions that are described in this chapter are common for all MC-3-
6 deliveries. Micro-control can work out own manuals for specific machines if requested to do so.

2.1.1 Operating the terminal


Check that the battery is in place in the terminal before starting. Turn the terminal on. The terminal
now runs a self-test of its internal functions. The test takes about 1 second. If everything is OK, the
terminal will establish contact with the base unit. The terminal can now control the machine. If the
terminal indicates low battery, the battery should be replaced.
Light emitting diode:
A yellow light emitting diode labeled «BAT» is used to indicate status and any errors in the terminal.
The most common indications are:
• Steady light - normal operation, no errors are detected and the battery voltage is OK.
• Flashing light (1 flash per second)- battery voltage is low.
• 2 short flashes per second - Activity when turned on. Some of the transmitter’s joysticks or
switches are active when the terminal is turned on. Deactivate the functions and the terminal will
start normally.

All the «flashing patterns» are explained in the enclosed service manual.
2.1.2 Maintenance of batteries
The terminal needs regular maintenance of the batteries and the rubber boots of the joysticks and the
switches.
The operating time of a battery will vary depending on the equipment in the terminal, but will normally
be 6-8 hours. Considerable shorter operating time can be caused by:
• The battery is in a bad condition and must be replaced. Being operated correctly, the
rechargeable battery should have a lifetime of about 1000 charging/discharging cycles. With an
optimal charger 1500-2000 recharging cycles.
• The battery is not charged or incorrectly charged.
• If the terminal is equipped with an LCD with a backlight, the operating time will be significantly
shorter.

Do not use a charger other than the one supplied with the system or a replacement from Micro-
control.

Defective rechargeable batteries are hazardous waste and must not be disposed of with normal
rubbish. You should handle defective batteries according to the laws and rules in your country.
See the enclosed manual for information on how to use the charger.

MAN-05-004 Rev. 1
Micro-control as ”Operator’s manual for MC-3-6” Page 6 of 9

2.1.3 Maintenance of the operating handles, buttons and cleaning


If the terminal is dirty it must be cleaned with a damp cloth to ensure that:
• Symbols and text can be read.
• Aggressive chemicals do not corrode the rubber boots of joysticks and switches.
If the rubber boots of the joysticks are damaged, replace them at once.
• Prevent deposit of salt or dirt on buttons or handles which in turn may involve malfunction.

The terminal contains advanced electronic equipment and should be treated accordingly.
The terminal should be kept in a dry place when not in use, preferably in a place with the same
temperature as where it will be used.
Materials used in the MC-3-6 terminals are anodised aluminium, acid resistant screws and different
plastic materials. Ordinary/daily cleaning comprises cleaning with surface cleaner wipes (usually
isopropanol) or a cloth with mild soap water. Generally you shall avoid using to much fluid on the
control mechanisms (handles and knobs) to avoid fluid inside them. On the MC-3-6 marine versions
the control mechanisms are IP-66 or better, thus detergents mentioned above have no negative
effects.
Inspect that all control mechanisms are intact, especially the rubber seals of buttons and handles. On
terminals equipped with protecting caps/sealing on the knobs, they are made of neoprene which is
very resistant to most chemicals and physical influence. They increase the useful life of the knobs and
protects against deposits of different kinds.
On some models of the MC-3-6 there may be protection seals made of silicone rubber that are not so
resistant to chemicals and especially to petrol products and alkalis. Avoid using detergents of this
type on Micro-control terminals.
If any of the silicone seals are broken we advise you to change all the seals with neoprene rubber
seals which may be purchased from Micro-control as. The joysticks are very sensitive to dirt ingress if
the seals are broken, so repair them immediately. A broken seal on the joysticks make allows access
for fluid to the electronic compartment of the cabinet, possibly damaging the electronics.
MC-3-6 is delivered in many versions including models for offshore and marine environments. These
are better protected against humidity. The electronics are imbedded in silicon gel, buttons are military
grade or IP67. Joysticks and connectors are IP66 or better. Seals may be changed, but all other
service has to be performed by authorised Micro-control service centres.
See the enclosed bill of materials for ordering spare parts.

2.1.4 Errors
If the terminal does not operate correctly, the error must be localised. Use the enclosed service
manual for fault finding. All the repair operations must be carried out of a representative from Micro-
control.

2.1.5 Technical data

Physical size: MC-3-6 approx 330x220x200mm


Weight: 2-3 kg (The weight will vary with the terminal's equipment.)
Operating voltage: 7.4 VDC
Supplementary specifications are given in the enclosed module specifications.

2.2 Base unit


All the MC-3-6 base units are produced according to the customer’s specifications, the enclosed
wiring diagram shows how the base unit is connected.

MAN-05-004 Rev. 1
Micro-control as ”Operator’s manual for MC-3-6” Page 7 of 9

2.2.1 Maintenance
The base unit does not need regular maintenance. The antenna, the antenna cable and the
connections should be controlled if the operation distance is not sufficient.
See the enclosed bill of materials for ordering spare parts.

2.2.2 Errors
If the base unit does not operate correctly, the error must be localized. Use the enclosed service
manual for troubleshooting. All the repair operations must be carried out of a representative from
Micro-control.

2.2.3 Technical data


The operating voltage will vary for each delivery, the correct operating voltage is stated on the
enclosed wiring diagram and on a label of the base unit.
Physical size and weight of the enclosure will vary for each delivery.
Supplementary specifications are given in the enclosed module specifications.

3. Options
3.1 Cable communication / RS-485 interface
The cable communication may be delivered as a supplement to radio communication. The terminal
and the base unit are then connected with a cable. The base unit has a switch to choose between
radio or cable communication.

3.2 Test equipment


Micro-control has developed a test program that makes it possible to test all the functions both in the
terminal and the base unit with the use of a PC. If the delivery has a connector for cable
communication, the PC may be connected to the terminal and the base unit via an RS-232 / RS-485
converter. In other cases the PC is connected to the processor module in the terminal and the base
unit via an RS-232-module. A user's manual is delivered with the test equipment.

3.3 Display
An MC-3-6 system may be delivered with Liquid Crystal Display 4x20 characters. It can be used both
in the terminal and the base unit. Most usually a display is used in the terminal to show feedback from
the equipment to the operator.

3.4 Adjustment possibilities


Warning! During adjustment some machines are run with a higher speed than what is normally
possible. On operating the program buttons, sudden changes in the speed may occur without the
joysticks being moved. Be careful during adjustment, if possible the machine should be operated
without load.
The only way to reset the programming is to follow the procedure described below. A function that is
incorrectly programmed (for example high MIN-value and/or low MAX-value) may be read as a
function fault. The programming should, therefore, always be reset before troubleshooting a function
fault.

3.4.1 MIN / MAX programming of analog functions


Adjustment procedure:
1) Turn the terminal off.
2) Press the PROGRAM buttons MIN and MAX at the same time.

MAN-05-004 Rev. 1
Micro-control as ”Operator’s manual for MC-3-6” Page 8 of 9

3) Turn the terminal on.


4) Release the PROGRAM buttons MIN and MAX. The terminal is now in programming mode,
indicated with short flashes at the battery light. If the terminal has a LED-display, this will
show A-00, indicating programming mode. When a function is being programmed the display
shows:
A-XX where XX shows which analog channel is being programmed, and is a number between
01….13.
5) Adjustment:
Move the function at your choice to adjust until you get the wanted response. If this shall be
your minimum response, press MIN. If this shall be your maximum response, press MAX. The
terminal will then automatically adjust the increase of the response so that the whole area of
the joystick is between the two chosen points.
6) Each function is adjusted separately for each direction (up/down/right/left).
7) Reset:
Move the function you select to reset out from the center. Press MIN and MAX at the same
time.
The function is now reset.
8) When the programming is finished the transmitter must be turned off and on again to start in
normal mode.

3.4.2 MICRO
If installed the MICRO function halves the MAX-value of analog functions. Press the MICRO-button
on the terminal to activate the function, press again to deactivate.

3.5 Neck strap/Bandoleer


If requested Micro-control can deliver a neck strap as an alternative to the waist belt.

MAN-05-004 Rev. 1

You might also like