PNI TCM 2.6 - Manual (Page 10)

PNI Sensor Corporation DOC#1009269 r11
TCM2.5 & TCM2.6 User Manual Page 10 of 49
Where to install the TCM2.5/2.6
The TCM2.5/2.6’s magnetometers’ wide dynamic range and its sophisticated calibration algorithms
allow it to operate in many environments. For optimal performance however, you should mount the
TCM2.5/2.6 with the following considerations in mind:
The TCM2.5/2.6’s magnetometers should not saturate
The TCM2.5/2.6 can be calibrated for large static magnetic fields. However, each axis of
the TCM2.5/2.6’s magnetometers has a maximum dynamic range of ±80 µT (this can be
read using the TCM Studio with by going to the datalogger and selecting “Magnetometer
Output); if the total field exceeds this value for any axis, the TCM2.5/2.6 will not give
accurate heading information. When mounting the TCM2.5/2.6, consider the effect of any
sources of magnetic fields in the local environment that when added to the earth’s field may
saturate the TCM2.5/2.6’s sensors. 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.
Locate the TCM2.5/2.6 away from local sources of changing magnetic fields
It is not possible to calibrate for changing magnetic anomalies. Thus, for greatest accuracy,
keep the TCM2.5/2.6 away from sources of local magnetic anomalies that will change with
time; for instance, electric equipment that will be turned on and off or nearby ferrous bodies
that will be changing positions. Make sure the TCM2.5/2.6 is not mounted close to cargo or
payload areas that may be loaded with large sources of local magnetic fields.
The TCM2.5/2.6 should be mounted in a physically stable location
Choose a location that is isolated from excessive shock, oscillation, and vibration.