USER’S MANUAL

ECHO48/2014 User’s manual

1.0 Warnings
Before installing and starting the equipment, please read this manual carefully,
especially with regard to the safety warnings described.

1.1 Safety warnings

The present document reports special warnings to guarantee the operator’s safety and
avoid any damage to the system or plant where the equipment is installed; warnings
are marked as follows:

DANGER!
Failure to observe the relative safety regulations may cause serious personal
injuries and eventually also the death.

CAUTION!
Failure to observe the relative safety regulations may cause serious damages to
the equipment and/or to the machine where it is installed.
You will also find another warning shown as:

NOTE!
It is a further important information concerning the equipment.

1.2 Personnel qualification

In this manual by the term “skilled personnel” we mean a technician who knows the
correct procedures of installation, programming and maintenance of electronic
equipments in general.
The technician shall be updated regarding the standard and safety regulations and
shall be qualified to carry out operations in compliance with the European standards.

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1.3 Correct use

DANGER!
This equipment must be used only for the purposes described in this manual,
with special attention regarding the technical characteristics; the use together
with other equipments shall be authorized by Ambrogeo.

2.0 Description
2.1 Equipment description
With seismograph ECHO48/2014 you can make RE.MI and HVSR seismic
measurements. It is available in two versions: with integrated PC or without PC to be
used with an external PC.

2.2 Functioning logic

Power the instrument by the 3-pole connector with 12Vdc tension by means of an
external battery (it is better to use a 12V battery rather than a power-pack that may
cause unwanted noises inside the circuits).

To start the equipment, press the start push button for a couple of seconds; when you
release it, after checking that the battery is sufficiently charged, the CPU will start
the instrument. This may be provided with an integrated PC to which it connects
after about two minutes to start the operating system, otherwise it is immediately
ready to connect with an external PC. Seismograph ECHO48/2014 is recognized by
the operating system (tested with Windows XP Embedded, XP, Windows7) as a
removable disk.

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In this window you can select an existing

project (open) or create a new one (create)
for it is possible to separate measurements
in folders. It is also possible to cancel
existing folders.

The main screen adapts to the monitor

dimensions. It is intuitional and easy to use
also with touch screen. On the top are the
control buttons, on the bottom the
measurements. The screen is divided into two
parts: noise display and acquisition window.

By pressing the START/STOP push button, a

menu allows to arm or disarm the trigger (this
control is possible also by pressing the button
in the main window, right on the bottom); it
controls also the noise start.

By pressing the DISPLAY button, a

visualization menu is displayed to chose if
you want to see noise and tracks together or
only noise or only acquired tracks. It is
possible to select the noise scale, if “Fixed”
the scale in mv will be displayed left on the
top of the noise window, otherwise it will be
variable.

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By pressing the DISPLAY button, it is

possible to select the channels to be activated.
The deactivated channels will be neither
displayed nor saved.

By pressing the SETTINGS button, you

will access the setting of the working
parameters from the “SAMPLING”
window, e.g. the sampling interval, the
desired acquisition length and the desired
delay (you can select a pre-trigger time by
entering a negative time). Values can be
entered by means of the numeric
keyboard placed aside.

cc

It is essential to confirm with ENTER each time. From the settings menu, you can
select the tracks reverse function (the positions of the selected channels are
reversed). The channel polarity reverse is also possible.
In the “TRIGGER MODE” window of the
settings menu, you can select the type of
trigger you intend to use; “Manual” if you are
using a contact normally open or closed.
“AUTO HI Impedance” if you are using the
signal of a geophone or “AUTO LOW
Impedance” if you are using a contact in
water.
Furthermore, it is possible to select a zoom level both for the noise and for the tracks.
On the acquired tracks you can enable the “Variable area” function that fills in the
positive part of the wave. With the “Clip Trace” button, you saturate the tracks that
run over the line of your own channel.

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Except that in “Manual”, it is possible to adjust the input sensitivity.

In the “AD GAIN” window, it is possible to

set a different gain for each channel by
recalling it from a curtain combo-box (see
figure below) and to increase or decrease the
gains of all channels or of a part of them only.
By the HIGH button, the gain is set to 36dB ,
with the LOW button to 18dB and by the
RESET button to 0db.
By setting AUTOGAIN, the system self-
adjusts the scale of gains depending on the
signals received during the first acquisition.

It is possible to store various presets of gains

(one for each channel available).
To do this, it is necessary to select the channel
to which the preset must be matched, then
select all the gains desired for each channel
and in the end confirm with “SAVE
PRESET”.
To recall, it is sufficient to click on the
number of the matched channel (which
highlights).
In the “Filters” window, it is possible to set up a signal filtering by activating a low
cut out, high cut out and notch filter. Different cutting frequencies are available. The
filtering operation can be executed by the instrument or by the PC connected (by
using the greater calculation power of the processor, then executing the operation
more quickly). By selecting a filter, you can see the graphic of the answer curve.

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In the “Colors” window, it is possible to chose between two different visualizations:

clear background with black tracks or black background with green tracks, useful
option for a better visualization under the sunlight.

After setting all the working parameters, press the “SAVE” button and the
parameters will be stored in a file and reset when starting the software again.
PS: remember to confirm each choice with the ”SAVE” button to send the
parameters to the instrument.
Once the Start Noise from the “START/STOP” menu has been executed, the noise
will start, with the trigger armed; when the trigger event occurs, the data acquisition
will begin.

Once the reading of the internal RAM is over,

the acquired tracks will be displayed. The path
of the saved file is shown on the bottom in
SEG-Y/SEG.2 format, too.

From the “FILE” menu, it is possible to open

and display the files saved. Through the
“Compare” function, it is possible to compare
a stored file with the last acquisition (this is
possible for the same settings).

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It is also possible to activate the stack which

can be standard (only the last acquisition is
displayed) or enhanced (the sum of the
acquisition is displayed). In practice,
acquisitions are added together to improve the
signal-noise ratio).

When the stack is activated, a yellow bar is

displayed at the bottom of the page as a memo.
After executing the desired acquisitions, it is
possible to see the single acquisitions and
eventually to cancel them singularly before
storing them - added - by pressing “STOP
STACK”. PS. If you don’t press “STOP
STACK”, the file will not be saved.
In the push buttons bar at the top of the page there is a button to activate the Zoom,
useful for the functioning with the touch screen. With the Zoom deactivated, the
mouse indicates the number of the channel with the relative gain, the time
corresponding to the position of the mouse and the relative amplitude. With the
Zoom button activated, you can select a window with the mouse and take it to the
foreground for a better track definition.
Zoom ON Zoom OFF

Another button is available to select the normal or reversed polarity of the signal.
The function is used in case of stack to add signals in counter-phase.

Normal polarity Reversed polarity

For the last ones, there is the button to minimize the software window (useful to
access the desktop of Windows) and to the right the “EXIT” button to quit (you will
be asked to confirm).
Up to here we have analyzed the standard functioning; it is possible to use the
instrument for RE.MI measurements too, acquiring the data continuously with a
sampling frequency of 624 Hz, 312 Hz and 156 Hz. A file in SEG-Y format is
created.

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To enter the RE.MI menu, select the RE.MI push button from the “SETTINGS”
button and chose the sampling frequency and the acquisition time, then press
“SAVE”. By pressing the START/STOP button, you will notice the change of
writing “START RE.MI. ACQUISITION” that makes acquisition start.

The instrument can be used for HVSR measurements with 3 channels, acquiring data
continuously with a sampling frequency of 624 Hz, 312 Hz and 156 Hz. A file in
ASCII format, with SAF extension, is created.
To access the HVSR menu, select the HVSR push button from the “SETTINGS”
button and chose the sampling frequency and the acquisition time, then press
“SAVE”. By pressing the START/STOP button, you will notice the change of
writing “START HVSR ACQUISITION” that makes acquisition start.

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2.3 Special features

The main advantage of seismograph ECHO48/2014 is that it allows to measure with
extreme precision and accuracy the vibration of the ground completely automatically,
storing the data in a SEG-Y/SEG-2 or ASCII file, and visualizing them on the
display. All instructions can be entered by touch screen with an extremely clear and
intuitive graphics.

2.4 Functioning specifications

Main technical features:

Number of channels 48+1 with differential input

AD conversion 24 bits
Dynamic range 130dB@1ms PG=0dB
120dB@1ms PG=18dB
Cross talk >90dB
Preamplify gain 0,6,12,18,24,30,36,42,48,54,60,66,72dB
Frequency response 0 to 6kHz (30KSPS)
0 to 4,8kHz (15KSPS)
0 to 3kHz (7,5KSPS)
0 to 1,5kHz (3,5KSPS)
0 to 800Hz (2KSPS)
0 to 400Hz (1KSPS)

Acquisition and display filter Low Cut Out

10-15-25-35-50-70-100-140-200-280-400 Hz
High Cut Out
32-64-125-250 Hz
Notch
50-60-150-180 Hz

Sampling Interval 32,64,128,256,478,956us

Record Length 16000 samples
Stacking trigger accuracy 1/32 of sample interval
Distortion (THD) 0,0004%
Max Input signal 5Vpp, 0dB
CMR 110dB (fCM = 60Hz fDATA = 30kSPS)
Noise 0,25uV, 2ms 36dB
Pre-trigger data 524ms@32us sample interval
Delay 0 to 15 sec @1kSPS (max 16000 samples)
Temperature range -30°C +70°C
Power 12 Volt
Continuous recording
Output format: SEGY/SEG2 / SAF (SESAME ASCII FORMAT)

3.1 Construction data

Mechanical data of the equipment:

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Dimensions (l * a * p) 340 * 290 * 140 mm

Weight about 3000 g
Protection degree IP 50 cover open
Portable container with transport handle.

3.2 Electrical features

Nominal voltage : 12 Vdc

Max. variation allowed : 10-13,8 Vdc
Typical current : 3A
Max. current :4A
Typical absorption :3A
Protection degree : IP 50
Operating temperature : -10 ... 60 °C
Storage temperature : -30 ... 70 °C
Max humidity allowed : 90% (@ without formation of condensation)

4.0 Installation and assembly

4.1 Mechanical installation
The instrument is in a plastic case with a handle for the transport. It should be placed
in a dry and aired environment, if possible away from direct sunlight.

4.2 Electrical installation

CAUTION!
If you are using an external power-pack, power ECHO48/2010 exclusively with a
power-pack with an adequate voltage, so as to supply the requested current.

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CAUTION!
On the cards are fitted the CMOS components, that are extremely sensitive,
especially to static electricity. Thus void to touch the card with your hands or metal
objects. You can touch only the screws of the terminal boards for the wiring
connection by means of an insulating screwdriver.

5.0 Maintenance
5.1 Maintenance of the system ECHO48/2014
We recommend checking the functioning of the equipment regularly, in order to
intervene promptly in case of fault.

6.0 Regulations references

6.1 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
From January 1996, all the manufacturers and assemblers of electric equipments,
which have an intrinsic function, must comply with the EEC/89/336 regulations
regarding electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).
There is not a regulation for the system, so please refer to the general rules for the
residential and commercial environment.
The reference rules are:
 EN 50081-1 (CEI 110-7)
 EN 50082-1 (CEI 110-8)

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Tests regarding emissions:

 EN 55022 (CEI 110-5)
 EN 55014 (CEI 110-1)
 EN 61000-3-2 (CEI 110-28)
 EN 61326-1
Tests regarding immunity:
 IEC 1000-4-2
 IEC 1000-4-3
 IEC 1000-4-4

6.2 European rules on low voltage

The seismograph complies with the rules on low voltage, in particular:

EN61010-1 Security of measurement instruments
EN60947-1 Low voltage equipments, general rules.

7.0 Reliability
7.1 System reliability
In this paragraph we will make some basic remarks about the concepts of reliability
and security of the electronic controls, regarding which there are still wrong or not
completely clear ideas.
The faultiness of an electronic equipment can be reduced if we consider the
behaviour of an electronic circuit, depending on the faults, over time.
The life of an electronic circuit can be divided into three phases:
1. FIRST PHASE faults are due to manufacturing defectiveness
2. SECOND PHASE once the inconveniences of the first phase have been
removed, the faultiness indexes remain constant,
provided the technical prescriptions are observed; in
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this phase only casual failures occur and this is the

normal behaviour of the equipment.

3. THIRD PHASE by increasing the operation time of the circuit, the

faultiness index starts to increase, signalling that the
period of use is finishing.
On the basis of the previous considerations, reliability and security of the equipment
are linked to the following project and construction parameters:
 Choice of components with proven and certified quality
 Operative procedures to avoid the storage of electrostatic charges on the
components with CMOS technology
 Visual controls during the various working phases
Static estimate of the faults eventually found, in order to intervene with the due
corrections immediately.

NOTE!
Despite any effort made to obtain a high degree of reliability, the probability of
failure cannot be completely eliminated.
It is essential to observe the technical warnings described in this manual, in
order to reduce the faultiness index as much as possible.

7.2 Handling of the ESD components

An electrostatic discharge is caused by the transfer of static electricity from one
object to another; the electric charge can be caused by friction and further separation
between two different materials, for example:
 By trampling on synthetic floors
 By trampling of the body on synthetic cloths
 By moving of plastic containers
 By unrolling of PVC adhesive tape.

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In extreme cases, with humidity lower than 20%, the electrostatic charge may reach
40 KV.
Seismograph ECHO48/2014 includes circuital elements produced with MOS
technology; these electronic components are particularly sensitive to over voltages
and electrostatic charges and are internationally defined as ESD (Electrostatic
Sensitive Device).
These components may be damaged by relatively low voltages that humans cannot
feel.
If you touch by accident a component when you are not electrostatically discharged,
extra tensions occur and these can weaken the component, which might also
immediately break or, even worse, they could affect its performance, making it break
after a short cycle of operation, worsening in this way the equipment reliability.
The deterioration of the components caused by these electrostatic charges may cause
uncertain functioning, e.g. varying the electric parameters in case of vibration or
sudden changes in temperature, making it difficult to find out the reason for a failure.
Not only can the damage be caused by ESD discharge, but also by high electric
fields, for instance by passing close to the cables of the high tension or in presence of
video display terminals or television sets.
Only the correct use of the protective devices and the careful observation of the
precautions to handle such components can avoid malfunctioning and damages to the
ESD modules.
The basic rule to observe is to handle the components only to execute works that are
absolutely essential.
If you are not adequately protected from ESD discharges, never touch the pins or the
connection tracks.
The components can be handled for workings only if the following precautions are
observed:
 Permanently connect to the ground potential by means of the proper bracelet
 Wear antistatic shoes; the floor must be antistatic.

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8.0 Storage
8.1 Rules
 Always observe the parameters reported in the technical features of the equipment
 Keep the equipment in its original packaging
 If necessary, pack the equipment considering the electrostatic charges and the
protection from crashes
 Do not superimpose more than 5 units
 Observe the rules for the protection from the static electricity; for example, in case
of metal shelves, these must be connected to the ground potential.
 Respect the environment, observing the rules concerning waste disposal for the
different packaging materials.

8.2 Shipment of the equipments

For the storage and shipment of the equipments always use antistatic packaging
materials, for example metal boxes.
If the container is not conductive, wrap up the equipments in materials like:
 Antistatic plastic bags
 foil
 paper
Never use normal plastic bags.

9.0 Copyright and responsibility

9.1 Copyright © AMBROGEO 2014
It is not permitted to give this document to a third party or copy it, nor to use the
content or make it known to a third party without our written authorization.
Any violation is punishable by law.
All rights are reserved, in particular those deriving from industrial patents.

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Windows XP Embedded ©, Windows XP ©, Windows7©, sono marchi registrati da Microsoft Corporation negli Stati
Uniti .

9.2 Responsibility exclusion

The content of the present document has been checked to correspond to what
described.
Eventual discrepancies are not excluded, therefore we do not guarantee full
concordance.
Ambrogeo reserves eventual technical and structural modifications.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 WARNINGS .......................................................................................................................................................... 2
1.1 SAFETY WARNINGS .................................................................................................................................................. 2
1.2 PERSONNEL QUALIFICATION .................................................................................................................................... 2
1.3 CORRECT USE .......................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.0 DESCRIPTION ..................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.1 EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................................................ 3
2.2 FUNCTIONING LOGIC ................................................................................................................................................ 3
2.3 SPECIAL FEATURES ................................................................................................................................................ 10
2.4 FUNCTIONING SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................................................... 10
3.1 CONSTRUCTION DATA .................................................................................................................................................. 10
3.2 ELECTRICAL FEATURES ................................................................................................................................................ 11
4.0 INSTALLATION AND ASSEMBLY ..................................................................................................................... 11
4.1 MECHANICAL INSTALLATION ....................................................................................................................................... 11
4.2 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION ......................................................................................................................................... 11
5.0 MAINTENANCE ...................................................................................................................................................... 12
5.1 MAINTENANCE OF THE SYSTEM ECHO24/2010 ........................................................................................................... 12
6.0 REGULATIONS REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................... 12
6.1 ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY (EMC) ................................................................................................................ 12
6.2 EUROPEAN RULES ON LOW VOLTAGE ........................................................................................................................... 13
7.0 RELIABILITY .......................................................................................................................................................... 13
7.1 SYSTEM RELIABILITY ................................................................................................................................................... 13
7.2 HANDLING OF THE ESD COMPONENTS ......................................................................................................................... 14
8.0 STORAGE ................................................................................................................................................................. 16
8.1 RULES .......................................................................................................................................................................... 16
8.2 SHIPMENT OF THE EQUIPMENTS ................................................................................................................................... 16
9.0 COPYRIGHT AND RESPONSIBILITY ............................................................................................................. 16
9.1 COPYRIGHT © AMBROGEO 2010 ............................................................................................................................ 16
9.2 RESPONSIBILITY EXCLUSION ...................................................................................................................................... 17

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