PNI FieldForce Trax - Manual (Page 13)

PNI Sensor Corporation DOC#1016505 r06
TRAX User Manual Page 9
4.2 Installation Location
The TRAX’s wide dynamic range and sophisticated algorithms allow it to operate in many
environments. For optimal performance however, you should mount the TRAX with the
following considerations in mind:
4.2.1 Operate within the TRAX
’s dynamic range
The TRAX can be user calibrated to correct for static magnetic fields created by the host
system. However, each axis of the TRAX has a calibrated dynamic range of ±125 µT. If
the total field exceeds this value for any axis, the TRAX may not perform to
specification. When mounting the TRAX, consider the effect of any sources of magnetic
fields in the host environment that, when added to Earth’s field, may take the TRAX out
of its dynamic range. For example, large masses of ferrous metals such as transformers
and vehicle chassis, large electric currents, permanent magnets such as electric motors,
and so on.
4.2.2 Locate away from changing magnetic fields
While the TRAX can compensate for transient changes in the local magnetic field, it is
good design practice to keep the TRAX away from sources of local magnetic distortion
that knowingly will change with time; such as electrical equipment that will be turned on
and off, or ferrous bodies that will move.
4.2.3 Mount in a physically stable location
Choose a location that is isolated from persistent vibration or other dynamic motion. The
TRAX can provide accurate headings while experiencing intermittent dynamic motion,
such as vibration or quick heading changes. But if this is persistent the TRAX will have
difficulty holding an accurate heading over extended periods of time.
4.3 Mechanical Mounting
The TRAX is factory calibrated with respect to its mounting holes. It must be aligned within
the host system with respect to these mounting holes. Ensure any stand-offs or screws used
to mount the TRAX are non-magnetic. Refer to Section 3.2 for dimensions, hole locations,
and the reference frame orientation.
4.3.1 Pitch and Roll Convention
The TRAX utilizes Euler angles as the primary method for providing orientation data,
although quaternions outputs also are available. The Euler angles are the common