Telonics, Inc. Products - Argos Transmitters, Terrestrial

Fig. 1

Fig. 1. This photo shows three fully configured models designed specifically for terrestrial applications.

Introduction

The latest Telonics Argos Transmitter models represent a new generation of Argos systems designed specifically for terrestrial mammal applications. The models are based on the ST-20 Argos certified electronics module. The electronics and battery system are integrated together and installed in a waterproof hermetically sealed brass housing that can be mounted on collar. The electronics, battery and all the interconnections are completely protected from moisture penetration and assure the longterm performance of the system. The antenna(s) is exited through a glass to metal feedthru maintaining the hermaticity (waterproofing ) of the unit. Some of the models contain a VHF beacon transmitter used to monitor the units during the course of the study or to retrieve the units for refurbishment at the end of the study. The customized collar mounted configurations are well suited for deployment and monitoring of terrestrial mammals. These new models replace older configurations based on the ST-6, ST-10, ST-14, ST-15, ST-18 and ST-19.

Key Features

Operational life is extended by a factor of three relative to older transmitter models, due to ultra-low quiescent current and highly efficient radio transmission circuitry.
Real-time clock calendar (RTC) controls all timing functions.
Powerful data collection and transfer capabilities allow the units to acquire, queue, and transmit temperature and activity information.
User programmability allows researchers to reprogram units in the field and change their role and mission.
- On-board sensors can be activated or deactivated in the field. Data collection regimes and schedules can be altered as required. Sensor data can be enhanced or deleted from Argos uplink transmissions.
- Transmission schedules can be modified.
- Argos ID codes can be changed.
- Argos uplink transmission power levels can be modified to extend operational life or increase the probability of signal reception at the satellite.
- Argos uplink frequencies can be changed to frequencies in low noise channels to increase the chances of a successful uplink.
Units can be refurbished to their original condition at the factory.
Shutdown with a small magnet allows users to turn each of these configurations "on" or "off". When turned "off", ST-20 based units consume less than 8 μA. Given this low current level, users can store their units for extended periods with minimal impact on operational life.

Model Comparisons

The information contained in the following table is provided in a manner to allow comparison of models. To sort by model attributes i.e. weight, CLICK ON THE COLUMN HEADING. To obtain more specific information for a model, CLICK ON THE MODEL NUMBER.

How to use this table: The information contained in the following table is provided in a manner to allow comparison of models. To sort by model attributes i.e. weight, CLICK ON THE COLUMN HEADING. To obtain more specific information for a model, CLICK ON THE MODEL NUMBER.

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Model	Size	Canister Weight (g)	Low power (mW)	Low power life (hours)¹	Low power temp (°C)	High power (mW)	High power life (hours)¹	High power temp (°C)	VHF Beacon Onboard
A-3010	1.9 x 1.6 x 0.9 in 4.8 x 4.0 x 2.2 cm	203	500 (Typ)	522	-10 to +60	N/A	N/A	N/A
A-3110	1.9 x 1.6 x 1.3 in 4.8 x 4.0 x 3.3 cm	230	500 (Typ)	659	-30 to +60	N/A	N/A	N/A
A-3210	2.0 x 1.6 x 1.9 in 5.0 x 4.0 x 4.8 cm	663	500 (Typ)	1427	-20 to +60	1000 (Typ)	631	+17 to + 60	Yes
A-3310	2.7 x 1.9 x 2.2 in 6.9 x 4.8 x 5.6 cm	1005	500 (Typ)	2494	-30 to +60	1000 (Typ)	1094	-40 to +60	Yes
A-3610	3.1 x 2.7 x 2.3 in 7.9 x 6.9 x 5.8 cm	1450	500 (Typ)	7192	-30 to +60	1000 (Typ)	3503	-40 to +60	Yes

1. Operational life expectancy is based on a continuous series of transmissions of a 4-byte Argos message at a 60-second repetition rate at 25°C.
2. Listed weight is canister only.

Historical Photo Gallery

Technical Notes

Argos System Background

Argos Terrestrial Transmitters

Introduction

Key Features

Model Comparisons

Historical Photo Gallery

Technical Notes

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