Key Features
- Contains a GPS receiver to obtain high accuracy GPS positions when adequate surfacing
time occurs. When surfacing characteristics prevent a standard GPS position from being
obtained, the Quick Fix Pseudoranging (QFP) alternative provides GPS positions using a post
processing technique on surface times as short as 5 seconds.
- Powerful data collection and data transfer using the Argos system allow the units
to acquire, queue, and transmit locations, temperatures and dive information.
- All products can be programmed by Telonics Product
Programmer (TPP) which uses a GUI interface. TPP makes it possible for users to
program their own systems and simulate performance of the system prior to deployment.
- 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.
- Data Decoding - Data are processed using the Telonics
Data Converter (TDC), which provides complete data decoding of Argos DS files and supports
complete memory downloading. TDC provides a comma separated value (csv) output file with time
stamps for all data collected. TDC can also be run in the "batch mode" for hands off
operation.
- TDC allows you to plot GPS fixes and Argos locations
with Google Earth.
- Real-time clock calendar (RTC) controls all timing functions and is recalibrated
with GPS time to assure high accuracy event timing.
- A micro-power saltwater sensor (SWS) saves additional power and further extends the
operational life of the unit.
[ More information about saltwater switch:
Show
]
The SWS is critical to successful performance of an Argos marine unit. Because radio frequencies
are severely attenuated in salt water, any uplink transmissions while underwater are essentially
wasted. The SWS functions to suppress transmissions while the unit is submerged thereby saving
power. The SWS synchronizes uplink transmissions to resume at the precise time when a marine
animal actually breaks the sea surface following a dive. By transmitting immediately upon
resurfacing, the unit has the best chance of successfully getting uplink transmissions to
available orbiting NOAA satellites. Further, the SWS can be used to determine a haul-out
condition and shut down Argos transmissions during extended shore time to save additional energy.
- Battery packs can be replaced by the user or units can be refurbished to their
original condition at the factory.
- Shutdown with a magnet allows users to turn each of these configurations "on" or
"off". When turned "off", TMT-462 units consume less than 12 µA. Given these low current
levels, users can store their units for extended periods with minimal impact on operational
life.
Models
| Model |
Dimensions |
Unit Weight (g) |
Onboard Memory for Data Logging |
Low Power (mW) |
Low Power Operational Life (hours) 1 |
Low Power Operational Life (hours) 2 |
Low Power Temp (°C) |
High Power (mW) |
High Power Operational Life (hours) 1 |
High Power Operational Life (hours) 2 |
High Power Temp (°C) |
| TMT-462-2 |
24.5" long x 5.5" diameter |
2360 (approx.) |
Yes |
400 (Typ) |
5232 |
7560 |
-40 to +70 |
500 (Typ) |
4824 |
7008 |
-40 to +70 |
1 Operational life is based on collecting 1 GPS fix per hour, 31 byte Argos transmission 24 hours
per day with satellite prediction, 0% of time spent under water,60 seconds Argos repetition rate,
standard power output and average temperature of 25° C.
2 Operational life is based on collecting 1 GPS fix per hour, 31 byte Argos transmission 24 hours
per day with satellite prediction, 50% of time spent under water,60 seconds Argos repetition rate,
standard power output and average temperature of 25° C.
Photo Gallery
Specifications: Electronic and Packaging
TMT-462-2 Specifications (Uses the µGPSI-22 System) Show
GENERAL SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
| Timing Accuracy: |
Timing is synchronized to GPS time when available. If the GPS time is not then internal
timing accuracy is:
6 min/year at 25° C
30 min/yr -20 to +40° C
47 min/yr -40 to +70° C
|
| Available Sensors: |
Mortality, Activity, Temperature, Low Voltage
|
| Memory Capacity: |
Capable of storing 500K fixes in nonvolatile flash memory in association with other
sensor data.
|
| Argos Transmissions: |
System can be operated in a mode where unit transmits only during satellite overpasses
based on the GPS location and the orbital parameters installed prior to deployment.
(GPS-Argos systems only).
|
GPS RECEIVER SPECIFICATIONS
| Standby Current: |
0µA |
| Performance: |
12 channels
-159 dBm tracking sensitivity
-145 dBm acquisition sensitivity
|
| Datum: |
WGS-84 |
| Time to First Fix (TTFF): |
40sec typical (with clear view of sky)
Quick Fix Pseudoranging (QFP) 7sec typical (with clear view of sky)
|
uGPSI-22 ARGOS CERTIFIED TRANSMITTER SPECIFICATIONS
| RF Output Impedance: |
50 Ω |
| Operating Frequency: |
ARGOS Frequencies
401.6300MHz to 401.6800MHz in 1 kHz Steps
Brazilian SCD-1, Channels C1 to C9
401.6180MHz to 401.6220MHz in 500Hz Steps
|
| Frequency Stability: |
+/- 0.5 ppm maximum from -30° to +70° C
+/- 2.0 ppm maximum from -40° to -30° C
|
| Initial Frequency Error: |
+/- 0.5 ppm maximum at +23°C, +/- 2° C |
| Aging: |
+/- 2.0 ppm maximum after 1 year |
| RF Power Out: |
Standard Power Version:
400mW (+26dBm) or 500mW (+27dBm) nominal into 50 Ω
(User selectable using TPP programming software)
High Power version (H):
800 mW (+29 dBm) ±1dB nominal into 50 Ω
Note 1: At +70°C, transmit current will increase by approximately 10% from the
+25° C measurement. Conversely, at -40° C it will decrease by approximately 10%
from the +25° C measurement.
Note 2: Transmit current and RF power out are sensitive to VSWR. Both can be degraded
significantly if the antenna or antenna coax are of poor quality or not correctly tuned
and matched to the ARGOS/Brazilian frequency band 50 ohm RF output impedance.
|
| Spurs and Harmonics: |
<-40dBc minimum, -60dBc typical (Coherent Spurious)
<-50dBc minimum, -60dBc typical (Non-coherent spurious)
|
TMT-462-2 VHF TRANSMITTER COMPONENT SPECIFICATIONS
| Available Frequency Options: |
Option 705 140-154 MHz
Option 707 146-160 MHz
Option 715 156-172 MHz
Option 720 160-177 MHz
Option 740 174-192 MHz
Option 750 191-210 MHz
Option 760 210-237 MHz
Note: The frequency can be programmed in 100Hz steps within a given frequency range.
|
| Frequency Stability: |
Better than ±3ppm at room temperature ±5 ppm total tolerance over full
temperature range
|
| Operating Temperature: |
-40° to + 70° C |
| Pulse Width: |
Programmable (10 to 250 msec) |
| Pulse Period: |
Programmable (560 to 5000 msec)
3 separate pulse period values selectable:
Period 1 (indicates last GPS fix successful)
Period 2 (indicates last GPS fix unsuccessful)
Inactive period (if no motion for selected time)
|
| Available Sensors: |
Mortality Sensor (parameters are user programmable) |
| Transmitter Timing: |
Programmable seasons and duty cycles. |
| Power Output: |
Programmable Low/Medium/High Effective Isotropic Radiated Power
(EIRP) varies, depending on packaging, antenna configuration, and immediate
environmental conditions.
* California Users: This transmitter meets the California requirement of EIRP<0.009W
for all configurations.
|
| Emission Designator: |
2k00P0N |
| Harmonic Suppression: |
Better than 30dB (>40 dB typical) |
| Spurious Emissions: |
<-35 dBc at 10 kHz offset from carrier |
| Frequency: |
Aging: <2ppm/yr
Shock: <1ppm 3000g x 0.3ms x ½ sine x 3 dir
|
| VSWR: |
RF output stable to 10:1 VSWR, all phases
Radiated harmonic levels are degraded with poor load VSWR.
Spurious emission specification maintained for >10:1 VSWR
|
| Programming: |
Transmitter parameters programmable via antenna "1-pin" interface and Telonics TPP
software.
|
| TMT-462-2 Packing/Housing Specifications: |
Designed for application on sirenians. Units are contained in an O ring sealed housing
which includes a flotation collar. Housing includes an eye-bolt mounted the nose cone
which allows for attachment of a tether from the electronics to the study animal. Salt
water switches are built in to the housing to allow the unit to detect diving behavior.
The GPS antenna is integrated into the housing for protection. The external whip antenna
system allows both ARGOS and VHF signals to be transmitted for data recovery and tracking
purposes.
|
Related Products
 |
PS-008530-045 Battery Pack
|
 |
PS-008348-065 Battery Pack
|
 |
Telonics Data Converter (TDC) converts raw data from Telonics transmitting subsystems into data reports formatted as comma-separated values (CSV). TDC generates report data using standard engineering units and associates it with the time of its acquisition. You can review TDC reports in any spreadsheet program, such as Microsoft Excel, and you can also use your own custom software to process reports electronically. TDC also creates files compatible with Google Earth so that you can map transmitter locations interactively. Telonics Data Converter even maintains a list of your transmitters and their data-conversion settings so you can generate new data reports efficiently throughout your study. TDC supports Telonics' current family of Argos transmitters and newest Gen4 GPS units.
|
 |
Telonics Product Programmer (TPP) is a powerful software tool for configuring the data-collection parameters of Telonics transmitters. Until now, Telonics has programmed most transmitters in the factory. Telonics customers now have a way to customize their own transmitters quickly and interactively, even prior to delivery of the units. Telonics Product Programmer gives you the ability to modify specific aspects of your transmitter, including transmission intervals and sensor behavior.
|
 |
The TSC-4A is a multi-use USB interface cable and features a USB A type computer connector and a male BNC (bayonet style) embedded device connector. The BNC connector allows quick and easy attachment of various embedded device adapters (available separately).
|
 |
The TSC-3 is a multi-use serial interface cable and features a DB9 serial computer connector and a male BNC (bayonet style) embedded device connector. The BNC connector allows quick and easy attachment of various embedded device adapters (available separately).
|
 |
Adapter, female BNC to car battery style clips. This adapter is useful for interfacing to marine systems such as those used in manatee or dugong research. Overall length of the TSC-4A with the adapter attached is approximately 82 in (208 cm).
|
 |
The TSTR-4 provides transmit indication for Argos PTTs (401.650 MHz). Provides both a visual indicator and audio tone with each transmission. Operates on a standard 9 volt battery. Designed specifically for short range (2-3 feet) use with PTT.
|
Related Links to Information on Other Websites
Argos System Manual
Getting started with Argos
Argos Publications
Argos Animal Tracking pages
Legacy Products
The information below is provided for individuals who are still deploying these older systems.
Some of the system information or limitations, information on frequency allocation or usage,
and/or comments made on "state of the art" may be time sensitive or even outdated. Please
contact Telonics if you have any questions about the information provided in this section.
Telonics still supports and refurbishes the following products but no longer sells them new:
TMT-460, TMT-240, TMT-462
TMT-462 Specifications (Uses the µGPSI-20 System) Show
GENERAL SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
| Timing Accuracy: |
Timing is synchronized to GPS time when available. If the GPS time is not then internal
timing accuracy is:
6 min/year at 25° C
30 min/yr -20 to +40° C
47 min/yr -40 to +70° C
|
| Available Sensors: |
Mortality, Activity, Temperature, Low Voltage
|
| Memory Capacity: |
Capable of storing 100K fixes in nonvolatile flash memory in association with other
sensor data.
|
| Argos Transmissions: |
System can be operated in a mode where unit transmits only during satellite overpasses
based on the GPS location and the orbital parameters installed prior to deployment.
(GPS-Argos systems only).
|
GPS RECEIVER SPECIFICATIONS
| Standby Current: |
0µA |
| Performance: |
12 channels
-156 dBm tracking sensitivity
-142 dBm acquisition sensitivity
|
| Datum: |
WGS-84 |
| Time to First Fix (TTFF): |
40sec typical (with clear view of sky)
Quick Fix Pseudoranging (QFP) 7sec typical (with clear view of sky)
|
uGPSI-20 ARGOS CERTIFIED TRANSMITTER SPECIFICATIONS
| RF Output Impedance: |
50 Ω |
| Operating Frequency: |
ARGOS Frequencies
401.6300MHz to 401.6800MHz in 1 kHz Steps
Brazilian SCD-1, Channels C1 to C9
401.6180MHz to 401.6220MHz in 500Hz Steps
|
| Frequency Stability: |
+/- 0.5 ppm maximum from -30° to +70° C
+/- 2.0 ppm maximum from -40° to -30° C
|
| Initial Frequency Error: |
+/- 0.5 ppm maximum at +23°C, +/- 2° C |
| Aging: |
+/- 2.0 ppm maximum after 1 year |
| RF Power Out: |
Standard Power Version:
400mW (+26dBm) or 500mW (+27dBm) nominal into 50 Ω
(User selectable using TPP programming software)
High Power version (H):
800 mW (+29 dBm) ±1dB nominal into 50 Ω
Note 1: At +70°C, transmit current will increase by approximately 10% from the
+25° C measurement. Conversely, at -40° C it will decrease by approximately 10%
from the +25° C measurement.
Note 2: Transmit current and RF power out are sensitive to VSWR. Both can be degraded
significantly if the antenna or antenna coax are of poor quality or not correctly tuned
and matched to the ARGOS/Brazilian frequency band 50 ohm RF output impedance.
|
| Spurs and Harmonics: |
<-40dBc minimum, -60dBc typical (Coherent Spurious)
<-50dBc minimum, -60dBc typical (Non-coherent spurious)
|
TMT-462 VHF TRANSMITTER COMPONENT SPECIFICATIONS
| Available Frequency Options: |
Option 705 140-154 MHz
Option 707 146-160 MHz
Option 715 156-172 MHz
Option 720 160-177 MHz
Option 740 174-192 MHz
Option 750 191-210 MHz
Option 760 210-237 MHz
Note: The frequency can be programmed in 100Hz steps within a given frequency range.
|
| Frequency Stability: |
Better than ±3ppm at room temperature ±5 ppm total tolerance over full
temperature range
|
| Operating Temperature: |
-40° to + 70° C |
| Pulse Width: |
Programmable (10 to 250 msec) |
| Pulse Period: |
Programmable (560 to 5000 msec)
3 separate pulse period values selectable:
Period 1 (indicates last GPS fix successful)
Period 2 (indicates last GPS fix unsuccessful)
Inactive period (if no motion for selected time)
|
| Available Sensors: |
Mortality Sensor (parameters are user programmable) |
| Transmitter Timing: |
Programmable seasons and duty cycles. |
| Power Output: |
Programmable Low/Medium/High Effective Isotropic Radiated Power
(EIRP) varies, depending on packaging, antenna configuration, and immediate
environmental conditions.
* California Users: This transmitter meets the California requirement of EIRP<0.009W
for all configurations.
|
| Emission Designator: |
2k00P0N |
| Harmonic Suppression: |
Better than 30dB (>40 dB typical) |
| Spurious Emissions: |
<-35 dBc at 10 kHz offset from carrier |
| Frequency: |
Aging: <2ppm/yr
Shock: <1ppm 3000g x 0.3ms x ½ sine x 3 dir
|
| VSWR: |
RF output stable to 10:1 VSWR, all phases
Radiated harmonic levels are degraded with poor load VSWR.
Spurious emission specification maintained for >10:1 VSWR
|
| Programming: |
Transmitter parameters programmable via antenna "1-pin" interface and Telonics TPP
software.
|
| TMT-462 Packing/Housing Specifications: |
Designed for application on sirenians. Units are contained in an O ring sealed housing
which includes a flotation collar. Housing includes an eye-bolt mounted the nose cone
which allows for attachment of a tether from the electronics to the study animal. Salt
water switches are built in to the housing to allow the unit to detect diving behavior.
The GPS antenna is integrated into the housing for protection. The external whip antenna
system allows both ARGOS and VHF signals to be transmitted for data recovery and tracking
purposes.
|
Service Commitment
Since 1970, Telonics has built a reputation based on product quality, product support, service,
and customer satisfaction. Telonics strives to produce the highest quality products, and to
support those products accordingly.
Because of extreme conditions and the unpredictable nature associated with most telemetry
applications, problems occasionally arise. Most problems can be resolved quickly. In all cases,
we hope to be able to work in partnership with users to resolve problems to the user's
satisfaction and to uphold our demonstrated commitment to excellence. If problems should arise,
all products must be returned to our factory for failure analysis.
Warranty: GEN 4 GPS Systems
Show
Telonics warrants its GPS products to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a
period of one year from the date acquired. Telonics does not warrant batteries.
If a defect occurs, return the equipment to us within the proper time frame at the following
address: TELONICS, 932 E. IMPALA AVENUE, MESA AZ USA 85204-6699. The customer shall arrange for
and pay all shipping, insurance and related charges incurred in the shipment to and from Telonics
under this warranty. Damage to any equipment resulting from misuse, accidents, unauthorized
service, extreme conditions, or other causes, is excluded from this warranty. Telonics does not
assume responsibility for loss or damage to equipment during shipment. Telonics does not assume
responsibility for delays resulting from shipment on commercial or private carriers. We insure
all equipment shipped from our facility and suggest that shipments to Telonics also be
insured.
Upon the timely return to our facility, if defective, the product will be replaced or repaired at
our discretion at no cost to the customer. This remedy is the exclusive remedy. This product is
supplied without any further warranties or conditions, expressed or implied, including warranties
of merchantability, quality or fitness for particular reason or those arising by laws, statutes or
trade usage or course of dealing.
The entire risk, as to the results and performance of the product, is assumed by the customer.
Neither Telonics, nor its suppliers, shall have any liability to the customer or any other person
or entity for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damage whatsoever, regardless
whether Telonics has been told of the possibility of such damages or that such damages might be
foreseeable. Telonics has no responsibility or liability for the claims of any third party. The
maximum aggregate to the customer, of Telonics and its suppliers, shall not exceed the amount paid
by the customer for the product.
