AirStar M3 (2003).book - Yorkton Aircraft Service

AirStar M3 

User Guide 

Part No. 875-0081-001 

www.satloc.com

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two 

conditions: 

• This device may not cause harmful interference. 

• This device must not accept any interference that may cause undesired operation. 

COPYRIGHT NOTICE 

Satloc Precision GPS Applications 

Copyright Satloc LLC, 2003. All rights reserved. 

No part of this manual may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system or 

translated into any language or computer language, in any form or by any means, electronic, 

mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without the prior written permission 

of Satloc, LLC. 

SATLOC LIMITED WARRANTY 

Satloc products are warranted, subject to the conditions set forth in the Satloc Limited Warranty 

Notice, Part No. 875-0066, which is included with every Satloc system upon purchase. Please read, 

understand, and follow the instructions to validate the warranty. 

TRADEMARKS 

Satloc and the Satloc logo, CSI Wireless and the CSI Wireless logo, are trademarks of Satloc LLC, 

CSI Wireless Inc. and CSI Wireless LLC. 

NOTICE TO CUSTOMERS 

Revision Notice: Satloc is continually improving its products. This publication could contain 

technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Changes are periodically made to the manual and 

these changes will be incorporated in new editions of this publication. As such, this manual is 

subject to change without notice. 

Contact your local dealer for technical assistance. To find the authorized dealer near you call or 

write Satloc at: 

Satloc, LLC 

7650 E. Redfield Road, Suite B 

Scottsdale, AZ 85260 

Telephone number: 

Fax number: 

E-mail address: 

(480) 348-9919 

(480) 348-6370 

sales@satloc.com

Warning! 

All Satloc products are positioning aids only. Products are 

NOT FOR NAVIGATIONAL USE. 

Take proper precautions and follow all approved procedures 

for aircraft operations. Read this User Guide carefully before 

using the product.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Table of Contents | Page i 

1: ABOUT AIRSTAR M3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 

Product Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Understanding Your GPS Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

What is GPS? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

What is DGPS? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

What Type of DGPS Does AirStar Use? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

How Does AirStar Use the DGPS Data? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

2: GETTING STARTED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 

Turning AirStar On/Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

Turning AirStar M3 On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 

Turning AirStar M3 Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 

Using the Lightbar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 

The Lightbar Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 

Lightbar Guidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 

Using the Display Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 

Display Screen Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 

Display Screen Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 

Using the Keypad & Menus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 

Navigating the System Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 

Using Keypad Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 

Keypad Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Page ii | AirStar M3 User Guide 

Setting Up AirStar Basic Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 

Enabling Logging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 

Enabling Flow Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 

Setting the System Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 

Setting the Local Time Offset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 

Selecting a Hemisphere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 

3: USING AIRSTAR M3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 

Logging with AirStar M3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 

Entering Job Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 

Beginning/Ending Logging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 

Marking a Return Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 

Starting a New Log Mid-Flight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 

Recalling a Mark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 

Recalling a Mark from a List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 

Replaying a Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 

Downloading Your Log File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 

Setting Flow Control Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 

Setting Spray Rate, Area, and Overlap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 

Using the Pre-Flight Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 

Flying an Open Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 

Flying a Back-to-Back Pattern (BK-BK) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 

Flying an Expand Pattern (EXPND) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 

Flying a Closed Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 

Flying a Closed Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 

Flying a Racetrack (RCTRK) Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 

Flying a Quick Racetrack (QKRTK) Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 

Flying a Reverse Racetrack (RVRTK) Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 

© 2003, Satloc LLC

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Table of Contents | Page iii 

Flying a Squeeze (SQUEZ) Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 

Common In-Flight Tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 

Common In-Flight Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 

4: CUSTOMIZING AIRSTAR: ADVANCED FEATURES . . . . . . . . . . . . .117 

Advanced System Setup Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 

Lightbar Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 

Message Window, Swathing Screen Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 

Logging Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 

Edge Warning Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 

Units Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132 

System Options Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133 

Screen Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136 

Flow Control Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 

AirStar Software Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 

Optimizing GPS: Advanced GPS Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146 

Viewing Current DGPS Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147 

Checking Your Receiver’s DGPS Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147 

Changing a DGPS Subscription Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149 

Switching Receiver Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 

Setting the Mask Angle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151 

Setting the L-Band Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152 

Setting the DGPS Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 

Selecting a Mode to Work In (Desktop or Normal) . . . . . . . . 153 

Smarter Navigation: Planning Your Spray Jobs . . . . . . . . . . . . 154 

Setting Waypoints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157 

Defining a Route . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162 

Defining Polygons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

Page iv | AirStar M3 User Guide 

Defining a Plot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171 

Putting It All Together: Programming Your Spray Job . . . . . . . 176 

Defining a Remote A|B|C Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178 

Automatically Marking Your Last Sprayed Point . . . . . . . . . . . 179 

5: TROUBLESHOOTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .181 

FAQs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182 

Common Errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186 

APPENDIXES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .197 

Appendix A: Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198 

Appendix B: Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204 

Appendix C: System Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208 


Chapter 

1 

ABOUT AIRSTAR M3 

Product Overview 

Understanding Your GPS Data

Page 2 | AirStar M3 User Guide 

PRODUCT OVERVIEW 

What You’ll Learn 

In this section, we’ve provided an overview of the basic features and functionality of your 

new AirStar M3. 

AirStar M3 provides the precise, flexible guidance technology you 

need in today’s aerial spray market. It provides guidance to an 

accuracy of within 3 feet (1 meter), allowing you to fly and spray 

precise patterns, reducing fuel, flying time, and spraying costs. 

AirStar was designed with pilot safety in mind. Its at-a-glance 

guidance and status indicators and simple keypad-driven controls 

allow you to focus on flying - not technology. 

AirStar M3 allows you to: 

• follow flexible swath guidance - your system comes preprogrammed 

with six standard spray patterns to match the 

most common patterns aerial pilots fly when spraying their 

fields. 

• get guidance around a field or land plot of any shape, 

minimizing spray waste - you can define the shape of a 

field by flying it, or by importing GIS maps of an area. You can 

also get guidance around non-spray areas in a field, such as a 

body of water. 

• set navigation waypoints and marks and navigate back 

to those points (AirStar M3 automatically sets a mark at your 

last sprayed point by default). 

• automatically calculate the area of any field, taking into 

account hazards such as bodies of water. 

• view a real-time map of your current flight, pattern 

direction, and spray applied on the display screen. 

• control display settings - set the screen brightness and 

colors for daytime or nighttime use. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

About AirStar M3 | Page 3 

• toggle between swathing, navigation, and DGPS data 

updates with the press of a button. 

• view pilot warnings, such as loss of GPS or DGPS, spray 

rate problems, double-spray warnings, and distance/time to 

polygon edge warnings. 

• log important flight and job data, such as time and date, 

position at each logging interval, altitude and heading, wind 

speed and direction, GPS information, mark locations, flow 

rate, and more. 

• replay your logs to review your application work. 

• view and print graphical reports of areas sprayed and 

chemical amounts applied, using Satloc’s optional MapStar 

software (or other third-party mapping application). 

• upload GIS shape files and plan missions from those 

shape files using Satloc’s optional MapStar software (or 

other third-party mapping application). 

• ensure proper, consistent flow rates with Satloc’s 

optional Flow Control software.


System Components 

AirStar M3’s ruggedized components were designed for the harsh 

flying and weather conditions of typical aerial applications. The 

components include: 

• a Lightbar and display screen that provide you with accurate 

GPS guidance.The large-scale, easy-to-read Lightbar and 

display screen can be adjusted for daytime or nighttime use. 

• a durable *keypad that allows you to program or access 

guidance data with the press of a key. 

*Note: AirStar M3 also comes with an optional keyboard. 

The keyboard is not pictured. 

• a power control box to turn AirStar M3 ON/OFF. 

• a CPU that houses the “brains” of AirStar M3. Just like your 

computer, the AirStar software runs from and saves data to 

the CPU and/or the PCMCIA card in the CPU. 

• a SLXg3 DGPS receiver. The SLXg3 is a high-performance, 12channel 

GPS engine. The SLXg3 gives you several options for 

choosing a differential source: OmniSTAR L-Band, WAAS, 

Beacon, and e-Dif. 

Note: The SLXg3 receiver comes with a separate manual - 

Part Number 875-0042-000. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


FIGURE 1-1. AIRSTAR M3 COMPONENTS.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR GPS DATA 


In this section, you’ll learn about GPS - what it is and how it works with AirStar M3. 

What is GPS? 

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. This worldwide radionavigation 

system is formed by 24 dedicated NAVSTAR satellites 

(plus active spares) orbiting the earth approximately11,000 miles 

away. Initially developed in the early 1970s for precise navigation 

and weapons guidance by the U.S. military, it is now used 

extensively by other governments, agencies, businesses, and 

individuals. 

While we mostly use GPS to determine our position, a GPS 

receiver is actually a highly accurate timing device. Since the speed 

of light is essentially constant (186,000 miles per second), a GPS 

receiver determines the length of time it takes for a signal to travel 

from the satellite. By triangulating the signals from many satellites 

(using, of course, very sophisticated mathematical formulas), a 

precise location is determined. 

The accuracy of the GPS signal can be affected by atmospheric 

interference, timing errors, and satellite orbit errors. So, the basic 

GPS signal provided by the military provides accuracy on the order 

of 10 - 20 meters, depending on the sophistication of the GPS 

engine. 


What is DGPS? 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Differential GPS (DGPS) is GPS with an additional correction signal 

added. This signal, called “Differential Correction,” provides 

corrections to improve the accuracy over GPS alone. 

The accuracy of this correction signal depends on the type of 

DGPS your receiver supports: 

• Beacon DGPS uses a single reference station at a known point 

(also called a base station) to calculate and correct bias errors. 

The beacon reference station is ground-based and computes 

corrections for each satellite signal. It then broadcasts these 

corrections from a radio tower to the remote, or field, GPS 

receiver. The remote receiver then applies the corrections to 

each satellite used to compute its position. 

With Beacon DGPS, the closer you are to a reference station, 

the more accurate your signal will be - so Beacon DGPS is 

good for local area coverage. 

• WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) DGPS uses GPS 

data from a network of reference stations spanning a wide 

geographic area to compute corrections. WAAS broadcasts 

corrections from two satellites. 

WAAS DGPS provides for a wider coverage area because it 

uses data from multiple reference stations. Furthermore, the 

effects of noise are averaged out across the network of 

reference stations. 

• Private satellite-based DGPS services. For example, 

OmniSTAR, a subscription-based service with worldwide 

coverage, also uses the network model to compute real-time 

corrections. OmniSTAR also broadcasts correction signals 

from multiple satellites around the globe.


• Relative DGPS services. For example, Satloc’s patented e-Dif 

service provides relative DGPS accuracy. e-Dif selects the 

GPS coordinates of a known point to serve as an internal 

“reference station” and computes accurate positions. This is 

done by gathering continuous data from satellites for 5 to 8 

minutes and then computing a matching differential corrector 

for that specific location - a process called calibration. Once e- 

Dif is running, it is continually adjusted to match changing 

conditions on the GPS signals caused by the atmosphere. e-Dif 

is designed to minimize position drift and prevent spiking or 

jumping. Typically, position drift is below 1 to 2 meters during 

the first hour of operation. 

e-Dif should be used when you don’t need absolute 

positioning data. 

What Type of DGPS Does AirStar Use? 

AirStar M3 is sold with Satloc’s SLXg3 receiver. The SLXg3 is a 12channel 

GPS engine with 4 differential options: 

• 300 KHz Beacon: ~ < 3 feet (1 meter) accuracy, depending 

on the distance from the beacon site 

300 KHz radio beacon DGPS is a differential service available 

throughout the world. Redundant coverage is planned 

throughout the entire U.S. Contact your Satloc dealer for 

more information on availability. 

• WAAS/EGNOS: ~ < 3 feet (1 meter) accuracy (WAAS)/ 

~ < 16 feet (5 meter) accuracy (EGNOS - still in test mode) 

WAAS is a free service of the FAA developed by Raytheon. It 

is available everywhere in the U.S., including Alaska, Hawaii, 

and Puerto Rico. It can also be picked up in the border areas 

of Canada and Mexico. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


EGNOS, a service similar to WAAS, is available in Europe and 

Western Russia. However, EGNOS is still in test mode. It is 

planned to be fully operational in 2004. EGNOS is a precursor 

to Galileo, the full global satellite navigation system under 

development in Europe. 

• OmniSTAR: ~ < 3 feet (1 meter) accuracy 

OmniSTAR L-Band is a subscription-based differential signal. 

An SLX receiver using OmniSTAR can operate throughout 

95% of the world, wherever OmniSTAR coverage is available. 

An SLX receiver with an active OmniSTAR subscription will 

automatically lock onto the differential satellites necessary to 

improve accuracy to within one meter, and will automatically 

choose the correct frequency, depending on what part of the 

world you are operating in. Different parts of the world may 

have different OmniSTAR subscriptions. 

• e-Dif: ~ < 6 feet (2 meter) accuracy 

e-Dif is a differential correction, designed by Satloc for use 

with the SLX receiver. Satloc developed e-Dif for our 

customers who are not able to receive other types of 

differential signals due to location or budget. 

e-Dif can be used anywhere on the globe where a GPS lock 

can be achieved. Once you receive e-Dif differential, you can 

operate for 1 hour or longer using the initial corrector. 

During the first hour, position accuracy is typically within 2 

meters, relative to the original location. See http:// 

www.satloc.com for more information on e-Dif.


How Does AirStar Use the DGPS Data? 

To Provide 

Accurate 

Guidance 

Factors 

Affecting 

DGPS 

Data 

AirStar uses DGPS data to provide you with highly accurate 

guidance to efficiently spray your jobs. 

Once you have established a reference line, or starting location for 

your pattern, AirStar can calculate exactly where your next swath 

should be based on your selected swath width and pattern using a 

GPS location it computes 5 times per second. The GPS location is 

made more accurate by applying DGPS corrections. The resulting 

Lightbar guidance cues reflect your real-time GPS data. 

AirStar can also use GPS data to guide you to specific waypoints - 

GPS coordinates of a specific location - if you have them. 

With AirStar’s SLXg3 DGPS, your accuracy is typically within 3 

feet (1 meter), as long as you have good quality differential data. 

And with a selection of differential options to choose from, Satloc 

brings you accurate differential position data regardless of your 

global location. 

However, many factors can affect the positioning accuracy that 

you may expect from a DGPS system. The most significant of these 

include: 

• age of the received differential corrections. Typically, DF will 

be 2-8 seconds. However, with Satloc’s patented COAST 

technology, DF can accumulate to 2700 seconds while 

maintaining sub-meter accuracy. COAST works with Beacon, 

WAAS, OmniSTAR, and EGNOS (if available) and minimizes 

position drift when not receiving continual differential 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

messages. COAST will therefore mask short periods of 

differential outages. 

• atmospheric conditions at the reference and remote locations. 

• satellite geometry, often expressed as a Dilution of Precision 

(DOP - should be less than or equal to 5). 

• magnitude of multipath present at the remote stations. 

• quality of the GPS receiver being used at both the reference 

and remote stations. 

• time from position acquisition - let the system run for at least 

five minutes before using the system for highest accuracy. 

• Satellites in View (SV) - determining an accurate position 

requires that the DGPS antenna have a clear view of the 

satellites. A minimum of 4 satellites is required for a good 

signal. 

If at any time a GPS or DGPS signal is not reliable enough to 

provide the guaranteed accuracy, AirStar M3 will provide you with 

a warning letting you know. These are discussed in “Chapter 3: 

Using AirStar” and “Chapter 5: Troubleshooting.” 

About AirStar M3 | Page 11

Chapter 

2 

GETTING STARTED 

Turning AirStar On/Off 

Using the Lightbar 

Using the Display Screen 

Using the Keypad and Menus 

Setting Up AirStar Basic Features


TURNING AIRSTAR ON/OFF 


Before you get started using AirStar M3, you need to know the basics: how to turn 

AirStar M3 on and off, how to read the Lightbar and display screen, how to operate the 

keypad, and how to set up AirStar basic features. 

In this section, you’ll learn how to turn on AirStar and properly turn off AirStar to ensure 

you don’t lose any logged data. 


TURNING AIRSTAR M3 ON 

Turning 

AirStar 

ON 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Getting Started | Page 15 

After you turn on AirStar M3, it will go through a series of built-in 

tests on the display screen and the Lightbar to make sure 

everything is running properly. 

To turn AirStar M3 On: 

1. Insert the memory card into the top of the CPU assembly 

unit. 

Note: A *PCMCIA memory card must be inserted in the 

CPU before boot-up. If your system is not recognizing the 

card, turn off the system, re-insert the card, and reboot. 

*By default, your system is set up to run from the AirStar software 

on the PCMCIA card included with the system. You can change 

this default setting to run the software from your hard drive - 

although this is not recommended. If running the software from 

your hard drive, you can skip Step 1, above (unless you wish to 

run the system from your hard drive BUT still log data to the PC 

card). See “Chapter 4: Customizing AirStar, Advanced Setup 

Options” for more information. 

2. Turn the main power switch 

to the ON position.


3. Press the POWER button on the color display screen. 

Note: You may need to hold the POWER button in for 

several seconds. The red LED will come on next to the 

POWER button when the display screen turns on. 

4. AirStar will start up as follows: 

Note: The keypad is turned on/off with the main power 

switch. The ON/OFF button on the keypad is not functional 

in the AirStar M3. 

• the display screen will boot up, open a standard AirStar 

M3 window, and begin a series of self-tests 

• the Lightbar will perform a series of self-tests 

Display Screen Boot Up 

a. The Windows 98 start-up menu opens. The Enter a Choice 

number defaults to “1.” If no other choice is made before 

a *4-second countdown is complete, the system 

automatically starts the AirStar application. 

FIGURE 2-1. WINDOWS 98 START-UP SCREEN. 

*Note: Depending on how quickly you press the display 

screen POWER button after you turn AirStar on, you 

may see a longer second countdown or you may miss 

the countdown altogether and open directly to the main 

AirStar window. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


b. The Satloc logo appears indicating the countdown is 

finished. 

c. A standard AirStar M3 window opens. The Message 

Window (shown in the following figure) tells you what 

built-in tests are being performed on the system. 

FIGURE 2-2. MESSAGE WINDOW DISPLAYS BUILT-IN 

TEST MESSAGES. 

Built-In Test Messages 

Tests to see that a receiver is 

connected to receive GPS and 

differential signals. 

Once GPS status is verified, the 

system starts. Version codes will differ 

based on the version of AirStar 

software that is installed.


Lightbar 

Boot Up 

Lightbar performs a series of selftests. 

Once all built-in tests are complete, 

the Swathing screen opens. *It is now 

OK to begin using AirStar M3. 

*Note: If you do not see Waiting - A in the Swathing screen, it is 

NOT OK to begin using AirStar. Wait-GPS tells you that you do 

not have a GPS signal. Reboot your system and check your 

receiver for Power and Status lights. See “Chapter 5: 

Troubleshooting” for further help. 

1. As soon as you turn on power, the Lightbar displays red 

dashes in the digital area and the center amber light is on. 

FIGURE 2-3. LIGHTBAR IS ON. 

2. After GPS is detected, the AirStar M3 software begins loading. 

The Lightbar performs a series of self-tests. When the 

Lightbar is ready, you will see the following display. 

FIGURE 2-4. LIGHTBAR SELF-TEST IS COMPLETE. 


Turning AirStar M3 Off 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


You MUST properly turn off AirStar M3 to ensure you do not lose 

any logged data. 

To turn off AirStar M3: 

1. From the Message Window, 

press to open the main 

menu. 

2. Press to turn off AirStar. 

3. The system shutdown warning screen appears. *Press to 

continue or to abort the shutdown. 

*Tip! You can also press + + to turn off. 

4. Press the POWER button on the AirStar display screen. 

5. Turn the main power switch 

to the OFF position. 

Note: The keypad switch is not operational in AirStar M3. The 

keypad is powered on/off from the main POWER button (shown 

above).


USING THE LIGHTBAR 





In this section, you’ll learn how to use the Lightbar. 

The AirStar M3 Lightbar provides at-a-glance information for flying 

with your precision guidance system. Because the Lightbar typically 

sits outside, the Lightbar is designed to be very durable. It is 

weatherproof, polarized, and hooded, to prevent glare. 

The Lightbar will display different information depending on your 

current activity. For example, 

• before you have set your A|B line, the Lightbar prompts you to 

set your A, B, and if applicable, C points 

• after you have set your A|B line, the Lightbar provides 

guidance to each subsequent swath 

• at any time, the Lightbar provides warnings for double-spray, 

polygon edge warnings, invalid GPS, and poor GDOP 

(Geometric Dilution of Precision) 

• when navigating to a mark or waypoint, the Lightbar provides 

guidance to the mark or waypoint 

In this section, we’ve covered the basics - the Lightbar display and 

using the Lightbar for basic guidance. More detailed instructions on 

using the Lightbar in specific situations are provided in “Chapter 3: 

Using AirStar.” 


The Lightbar Display 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


The Lightbar is made up of two horizontal rows of LEDs, one 

vertical row of LEDs, and a left and right display. 

FIGURE 2-5. LIGHTBAR DISPLAY. 

Use the Lightbar LEDs for guidance 

when flying your aircraft. The top row of 

LEDs tells you the cross-track distance 

(the distance and direction you need to 

fly to intercept the target swath line). In 

other words, fly in the direction of the 

top row of lights. 

The bottom row of LEDs tells you the 

heading angle to the active swath. The 

heading angle is the direction the nose of 

the aircraft is pointing (in a no-wind 

situation).


The middle row of LEDs tells you when 

you are flying and lined up straight on a 

swath. When all three lights are lit, you 

are on target. 

Each LED represents a certain distance. 

For example, for cross-track distance 

(top row of LEDs), when you are farther off-track, more LEDs will 

light up. When you are closer to your target, fewer LEDs will light 

up. 

For heading angle, the farther off-center the lit LED is, the farther 

you are off from the desired heading angle needed to intercept the 

target swath. 

Note: For details on Lightbar LED settings, see “Chapter 4: 

Customizing AirStar, Advanced Setup Options.” 

The left and right Lightbar displays can also provide guidance and 

reinforce the information provided by the LEDs. The default right 

display will tell you the exact cross-track distance. The default left 

display will show you the current swath number. 

While the default factory settings meet the needs of most people, 

you can adjust settings such as the LED sensitivity and left and right 

display options if desired. See “Chapter 4: Customizing AirStar, 

Advanced Setup Options” for more information. 

Note: Satloc recommends learning to use AirStar with the 

default settings before customizing any settings. (If you have 

customized settings, you can return to the default settings by 

selecting Reset to Defaults from the main menu.) 


Lightbar Guidance 

Flying an 

Active 

Pattern 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


As mentioned in the introduction, the Lightbar will display 

different information depending on the mode you are working in. 

Here, we have provided brief examples of the Lightbar display 

when flying an active pattern, a sample Lightbar error, and the 

Lightbar display when navigating to a mark or waypoint. 

When flying and spraying an active job, the Lightbar will display 

guidance information for the current swath. 

For example, if you are creating a Racetrack pattern, the first task 

is to set the A|B line. 

1. The Lightbar defaults to indicate it is ready to set point “A” 

(- -A) with a 60-foot swath width. 

FIGURE 2-6. LIGHTBAR GUIDANCE: SET A|B LINE. 

2. After you have set your A point, the Lightbar prompts you to 

set your B point by flashing the top row of LEDs. It then 

prompts you to set your C point, if applicable, by flashing the 

bottom row of LEDs.


Lightbar 

Warnings 

3. After you have set your A|B line on the initial swath (Swath 

#1), you can press the remote Swath Advance button (or 

) for guidance to the next swath. The Lightbar provides 

guidance relative to your A|B line and selected pattern. 

The sample Lightbar shown below is directing the pilot to fly 

towards Swath #2 with a cross-track distance and direction of 

200 feet to the left. 

FIGURE 2-7. LIGHTBAR GUIDANCE: RELATIVE TO A|B LINE. 

4. When you have a cross-track distance of zero, the center line 

of amber lights on the Lightbar remain lit. That means you 

have perfect alignment to begin spraying the next swath. 

Tip! Decrease your angle of intercept as your cross-track distance 

decreases. 

While spraying an active pattern, you may encounter a warning. 

Warnings may include spraying a previously sprayed swath (doublespray 

warning), flow errors, invalid or poor DGPS reception, or 

distance/time to polygons or waypoints. 

The Lightbar will flash a warning in this case. Your active guidance 

will disappear from the Lightbar; you will see flashing LEDs and/or 


Navigating 

to a Mark 

or 

Waypoint 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


additional error information in the left and right display screen in 

its place. 

A sample Swath Double-Spray Warning is shown below. In this 

example, the left and right LEDs flash when spraying a swath that 

was previously sprayed. 

FIGURE 2-8. LIGHTBAR DOUBLE-SPRAY WARNING. 

For a complete overview of Lightbar warnings, see “Chapter 3: 

Using AirStar, Common In-Flight Errors.” 

The Lightbar provides guidance to a particular mark or waypoint 

when you recall the mark or waypoint. When providing guidance 

back to a mark, AirStar will provide guidance to the swath that was 

active when you saved the mark. 

When providing guidance to a waypoint, AirStar calculates the 

shortest distance between the point where you recalled the 

waypoint and the point where you saved the waypoint - a straight 

line of course! The Lightbar display will show the cross-track 

distance to this navigation line. (See Figure 2-9.)


Note: The Non Swath Desense field in 

the Lightbar Setup menu allows you to 

de-sensitize LED settings when navigating 

to a waypoint. See “Chapter 4: 

Customizing AirStar” 

for additional 

information. 


FIGURE 2-9. NAVIGATING TO A WAYPOINT. 

Waypoint #1 


Recall the waypoint 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

This page is intentionally blank. 

Getting Started | Page 27


USING THE DISPLAY SCREEN 





In this section, you’ll learn how to read the display screen. 

The AirStar M3 display screen displays data for the current activity. 

For example, if you are flying a Back-to-Back pattern, the display 

screen shows a map of your field and spray applied, your active 

pattern, current swath, navigation data, GPS data, spray rate data, 

and other data as defined in setup options (see “Chapter 4: 

Customizing AirStar” for advanced setup options). 

The display screen settings are similar to the settings on your 

personal computer or TV. While the factory default settings should 

be fine for most people, you can adjust the brightness and select 

the optimal display for daytime or nighttime viewing to suit your 

needs if necessary. 

Once you have the display screen settings just right, you’ll need to 

become familiar with the information contained in the display 

screen. The display is divided into four sections: 

• Map Window - displays a scaled down view of the field. You 

can pan/zoom the display in the Map Window to meet your 

needs. 

• Message Window - changes to show swathing, navigation, 

or GPS details, the system menus, or the diagnostic screens, 

depending on the work you’re doing. 

• Custom Settings Window - indicates spray volume and 

spray rate by default (to highlight spray data). However, you 

can change this window to highlight other information if 

desired. 


Display Screen Settings 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


• Data Window - monitors your current DGPS, navigation, 

job, and logging data. 

Your AirStar M3 display screen is shown below. 

FIGURE 2-10. AIRSTAR M3 DISPLAY SCREEN. 

The buttons on the display screen allow you to set the brightness 

level of the screen. 

Note: You can also change the display for optimal nighttime 

viewing. Select AirStar Setup > Screen Setup and select 

INVerse. Select Color to change it back for daytime viewing. See 

“Chapter 4: Customizing AirStar, Advanced Setup Options” for 

more information.


Setting 

Brightness 

Display Screen Data 

To set the display screen brightness: 

Press and hold the BRIGHTNESS buttons located above the 

POWER button. 

• Up arrow increases brightness 

• Down arrow decreases brightness 

The display screen is divided into four sections: 

• Map Window 

• Message Window 

• Custom Settings Window 

• Data Window 

Note: Refer to “Chapter 4: Customizing AirStar, Advanced 

Setup Options” for information on customizing the data displayed 

on the display screen. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


FIGURE 2-11. AIRSTAR DISPLAY SCREEN IS DIVIDED INTO FOUR SECTIONS.


The Map 

Window 

Pan/Zoom 

Controls 

Once a job file is created or a log is opened, a GIS-generated map 

of the field appears in the Map Window. This map is created by 

Satloc’s MapStar for Windows software. The map includes an 

outline of the field’s shape and size, areas to spray and not spray, 

and any marks set in the field. 

Note: Refer to the MapStar Owner’s Manual for more 

information on GIS-generated maps. 

The following figure shows a sample Map Window display for a 

pilot using advanced navigation tools to spray a plot. This window 

shows a map of the *plot, or field, sprayed areas, and current time, 

position, and altitude, among other details. 

*Note: See “Chapter 4: Customizing AirStar, Smarter 

Navigation” for an overview of plots. 

You can pan/zoom the display in the Map Window. 

Press + to access the main Pan/Zoom options. 

To zoom, follow the on-screen instructions: 

FIGURE 2-12. PAN/ZOOM CONTROLS FOR MAP WINDOW 

(CONTROL SCREEN APPEARS IN MESSAGE WINDOW). 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 2-13. THE MAP WINDOW. 



The 

Message 

Window 

To pan, use the keypad numbers: 

FIGURE 2-14. USE KEYPAD NUMBERS TO PAN MAP WINDOW. 

Note: The keypad will only function as pan controls from the 

Pan/Zoom options screen in the Message Window. 

The Message Window shows one of three message screens, the 

system menus, or the diagnostic screens, depending on your 

keypad selection: 

• Swathing screen 

• Navigation screen 

• GPS screen 

• System menus 

• Diagnostic screens (this is NOT the same as selecting 

Diagnostics from the main menu) 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


When the system has completed its boot-up sequence, the 

Swathing screen is the first window to open. 

Note: Press in succession to view the Navigation, GPS, and 

Swathing screens. Press at any time from the Message 

Window to access the system menus. Press + to view 

the Diagnostic screens. Press from any of these screens to 

return to the main Swathing screen. 

Swathing Screen 

FIGURE 2-15. MESSAGE WINDOW: SWATHING SCREEN.


Navigation Screen 

FIGURE 2-16. MESSAGE WINDOW: NAVIGATION SCREEN. 

GPS Screen 

FIGURE 2-17. MESSAGE WINDOW: GPS SCREEN. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

System Menus 


FIGURE 2-18. MESSAGE WINDOW: MAIN MENU ( ). 

Diagnostic Screens 

FIGURE 2-19. MESSAGE WINDOW: DIAGNOSTIC SCREENS (MAIN 

SCREEN) - 

USED FOR TROUBLESHOOTING ONLY ( + ).


The 

Custom 

Settings 

Window 

The Custom Settings Window will show different data depending 

on your selection in AirStar Setup > Screen Setup, Lft disp and 

Rgt disp fields. 

FIGURE 2-20. SETTINGS IN SCREEN SETUP MENU APPEAR IN 

THE CUSTOM SETTINGS WINDOW. 

Note: By default, the display shows Gallons and Gallons/Acre to 

highlight your spray data. You can change these settings to any of 

the options available in the Lightbar and Display options - see 

“Chapter 4: Customizing AirStar, Advanced System Setup 

Options, Setting the Left and Right Lightbar Displays” for a 

complete list of display options. 


The Data 

Window 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


The Data Window reflects your current DGPS, navigation, job, 

and logging data. 

FIGURE 2-21. DATA WINDOW.


USING THE KEYPAD & MENUS 





In this section, you’ll learn how to use the keypad and menus. 

The keypad drives your activities with AirStar M3 - use the keypad 

to view different data screens and access the system menus. The 

keypad can be used to access system menu options in one of two 

ways: 

1. to navigate the system menus in the display screen Message 

Window and select or enter information, or 

2. to key in keypad shortcuts, or sequences of keys, to access 

options directly. 

FIGURE 2-22. THE KEYPAD. 

Note: Use the Keypad and Lightbar rotary dials to adjust the 

Keypad and Lightbar brightness, if necessary. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


FIGURE 2-23. MAP OF MAIN MENU OPTIONS. 

(SEE APPENDIX C FOR MAP OF SUB-MENUS.)


Navigating the System Menus 

Navigating 

System 

Menus 

To use the system menus, you need to understand: 

• how to navigate through the system menus using the arrow 

keys 

• how to select and enter data using the keypad when necessary 

• how to save your changes 

• system keypad tips 

You can access the system menus at any time by pressing from 

the Message Window. 

Once you have accessed the main menu, simply use your arrow 

keys on the keypad to navigate your menus ( ). 

See Figure 2-24. Use the Arrow Keys to Navigate through Menu 

Options. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


FIGURE 2-24. USE THE ARROW KEYS TO NAVIGATE THROUGH MENU OPTIONS.


Selecting 

and 

Entering 

Data Using 

the Keypad 

Once you have accessed your desired menu item, you need to 

know how to scroll through available selections within a field and 

select one. You also need to know how to enter alphanumeric 

characters if a field requires a name, such as the Job field in the Job 

Data menu. 

Selecting from Options in a Field 

We will use the New Log for Job field in the Data Logging Setup 

sub-menu to show how to select from available options in a field. 

To select from options in a field: 

1. Press to access the main menu from the Message 

Window. 

2. Select AirStar Setup > Data Logging Setup from the 

main menu. 

3. The third field on the Data Logging Setup screen is the 

New Log for Job field. Press to enter the field. 

4. Use your to scroll through the available selections in 

the field (in this example, YES/NO). 

5. To save your entry and return to your current menu, press 

. 

6. To save your entries within a menu and return to the Swathing 

screen, press . 

Note: The New Log for Job field should be set to YES to 

automatically begin a new log each time you start a new job. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 2-25. SELECTING FROM AVAILABLE FIELD OPTIONS. 



Entering Alphanumeric Characters in a Field 

We will use the Job field in the Job Data menu to show how to 

enter alphanumeric characters in a field. 

To enter alphanumeric characters: 

1. Press to access the main menu from the Message 

Window. 

2. Use to highlight the Job Data menu. Press to open 

the Job Data menu. 

3. The first field on the Job Data menu is the Job field. Use this 

field to enter a job name. To enter the field, press . 

4. This opens the Character-Entry screen. The character you are 

currently on will be highlighted. Enter letters and numbers 

using the number keys on your keypad. The keypad numbers 

act in the same way the buttons on a telephone work. In other 

words, button “1” can represent either a “1,” or letters “A,” 

“B,” and “C” of the alphabet. Likewise “2” can be “2” or “D,” 

“E,” or “F,” and so on. For example, pressing the “1” button in 

sequence will scroll through “1,” “A,” “B,” “C,” and back to 

“1.” 

Tip! You can also use to scroll through the alphabet, 

characters, and numbers on a character-entry field. 

5. To select a character and advance to the next character-entry 

field, press . 

Tip! You can also use to return to the previous 

character-entry field or advance to the next character-entry 

field. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 2-26. ENTERING ALPHANUMERIC CHARACTERS. 



Saving 

Your 

Changes 

6. To save your entry and return to your current menu, press 

. You will have to enter through to the end of the 

character entry line to return to the current menu. 

7. To save your entries within a menu to the system’s memory, 

press . 

It is very important to understand that simply selecting an option 

in the menus does NOT save it to the system’s memory. The 

key temporarily saves your change, allowing you to make several 

changes within the menus before permanently saving the changes. 

To permanently save your changes, press . This saves your 

changes to the system’s memory. 

Warning! For any settings to take effect, you must 

press ! 


Using Keypad Shortcuts 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Keypad shortcuts are sequences of keys you can press to access 

menu options or tasks without having to navigate through the 

menus. 

Keypad shortcuts are especially helpful when completing a task 

while flying, such as setting a waypoint or starting a new log midflight. 

These shortcuts allow you to quickly complete a task. 

Keypad shortcuts are covered in this guide by task. For example, 

you can find keypad shortcuts associated with the logging function 

in “Chapter 3: Using AirStar, Logging with AirStar M3.” 

Shortcuts are designated in this user guide by a shaded box, 

labeled “Keypad Shortcut.” Below is a sample keypad shortcut. 

This shortcut opens the system menus. 

FIGURE 2-27. KEYPAD SHORTCUT: ACCESS SYSTEM MENUS. 

Note: A complete list of keypad shortcuts is included in your 

Quick Reference Guide.


Keypad Tips 

Now that you know the basics: how to navigate the menus and 

how to select or enter information in a field, we have provided tips 

on some of the more commonly used keys for basic AirStar M3 

operation. 

Note: Please note that this is not a comprehensive list. Keypad 

shortcuts are covered in this manual by task. A complete at-aglance 

list of shortcuts is included in your Quick Reference 

Guide. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Task On Keypad... 

Toggle through Swathing, Navigation, 

and GPS screens in the Message 

Window. 

Access menus 

Navigate menus 

Save menu entry and return to 

the Swathing screen 

Select a pattern 

(when in “Waiting-A” mode) 

Select a direction 

Save a *data type 

*mark, waypoint, route, polygon, plot 

Data type keys are labeled. e.g., . 


+ data type + *n + 

(*n = data type number. e.g., 

Mark “1”) 

Recall a saved *data type 

*mark, waypoint, route, polygon, plot +data type + *n + 


Mark “1”)



Erase a *data type from system 

memory 

*mark, waypoint, route, polygon, plot 

Tip! If you include the data type number 

(n), you will permanently erase it. If you 

don’t include the data type number, you 

will simply clear active guidance from the 

display screen. 

+ data type + *n + 


Mark “1”) 

Clear active guidance from the display 

screen + data type + 

Clear display screen (Map Window) 

Clear flight trace lines in Map 

Window (leaves spray fill data and 

pattern/plot/polygon/waypoint/mark 

info) 

Reset current pattern 

Start a new log 

View a list of logs in memory 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Access zoom/pan controls 

Tip! Remember that Set = Recall a data 

type, and you’re recalling the display 

screen View settings. 

Turn off AirStar 


- or -


SETTING UP AIRSTAR BASIC FEATURES 





In this section, you’ll learn how to set up the basic features necessary to get up and 

running with AirStar M3. 

Your AirStar M3 comes equipped with default factory settings. 

While these settings will meet most people’s needs, there are a 

few basic options you need to set. Before starting, you’ll need to: 

• Enable logging 

• Enable flow control, if installed (optional module) 

• Set the system units 

• Set the local time offset 

• Select your hemisphere 

Once you have set these options, you are ready to begin using 

AirStar M3. See “Chapter 3: Using AirStar.” 

Note: Please see “Chapter 4: Customizing AirStar” for advanced 

setup options as needed. 


Enabling Logging 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Logging is one of the main benefits of AirStar M3. Enabling logging 

allows you to track and save all of your flight and spray job data 

together in a file in the system’s memory. 

By default, logging is turned OFF at the factory. To turn logging 

ON, you’ll need to choose a logging interval (how often log data is 

updated). 

Note: If the data logging interval is set to 99.0 seconds, this 

means that logging is turned OFF. 

To enable logging: 


main menu. 

2. In the Log Interval field, notice 

the current log interval is 

shown on the screen. 

3. Use your keypad to enter a 

new log interval. 

Tip! We recommend setting your logging interval at 2 seconds.


Enabling Flow Control 

Flow Control is an optional module. If you have purchased the 

Flow Control module, you’ll need to enable it in your AirStar 

setup. 

To turn the Flow Control fields on/off: 

1. Select Flow Control from the main menu. 

2. In the Flow Mode field, select: 

Setting the System Units 

• Flow Cont(rol) to activate the Flow Control settings. 

See “Chapter 3: Using AirStar, Controlling Spray 

Options” for a description of the settings. 

• Flow Off if you do not have the flow module installed. 

• Mon(itor) Only if you are monitoring the flow system. 

In this mode, you are manually controlling the flow. For 

example, you would select this mode to calibrate your 

flow meter. 

By default, your Satloc system comes pre-set with U.S. units. If 

using metric units, you will need to change this setting. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

To set units: 


1. Select AirStar Setup > Units from the main menu. 

2. Set the System field to metric or U.S. as desired. 

Setting the Local Time Offset 

Note: If you set the System field, the rest of the fields will 

change to match. You can assign units to individual categories 

(e.g., distance, area). 

AirStar M3 is set to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). GMT is based 

on a 24-hour clock representing the time at the zero degree 

meridian (Prime Meridian). 

To convert to local time, you must know the time difference 

between GMT and local time for both standard time and daylight 

savings. For example, Arizona, U.S., is located in the Mountain time 

zone and does not observe daylight savings. So, to use AirStar M3 

in Arizona, you would set the local time setting to 07:00 (7 hours 

behind GMT. The hemisphere you select - see below - tells AirStar 

whether you are 7 hours behind -West of the Prime Meridian - or 

ahead - East of the Prime Meridian - of GMT). 

Note: If you live in an area that observes daylight savings, you will 

need to set the local time twice a year.


To set the local time offset: 

1. Select AirStar Setup > GPS & Time Setup from the main 

menu. 

2. In the GMT Offset field, notice 

the current time offset is 



new local time offset. 

Selecting a Hemisphere 

Selecting which hemisphere you are working in tells AirStar if your 

local time offset is ahead or behind GMT. 

To select your hemisphere: 


menu. 

2. In the GMT Hemisphere field, 

notice the current time 

hemisphere is shown on the 

screen (West). 

3. Use your keypad to select East, if working in the Eastern 

hemisphere. 


Chapter 

3 

USING AIRSTAR M3 

Logging with AirStar M3 

Setting Flow Control Options 

Using a Pre-Flight Checklist 

Flying an Open Pattern 

Flying a Closed Pattern 

Common In-Flight Tasks 

Common In-Flight Warnings


LOGGING WITH AIRSTAR M3 


In this section, we’ve provided an overview of your log data and listed the major steps 

you need to know to easily manage your log files. You’ll learn how to: 

• Enter job details to associate with the log file 

• Begin/end logging 

• Mark a return point 

• Start a new log for a different job mid-flight 

• Recall a mark 

• View previous logs 

• Download your log file 

The AirStar M3 will automatically create a log file of each job 

flown, allowing you to examine the quality of every job (provided 

that logging is enabled). Log data includes exact positioning and 

rate of spray application, precise time and date record, flight 

speed, altitude, patterns flown, and GPS position quality. 

AirStar records this information in the log any time you are above 

a pre-designated airspeed. And if you need to complete more than 

one job during a flight, you can save your current log and begin a 

new log with the press of a button. Beginning a new log allows you 

to separate information for each job in its own log file. 

Your log data is stored in a log file, which you can easily transfer to 

a computer for viewing and printing. 

Our companion software product, MapStar, allows you to then 

view the log file of a spray job in an at-a-glance graphical display. 

MapStar allows you to zoom in on a job for precise measurements, 

import custom digital background maps, and even pre-program a 

spray mission directly from your computer. 

An overview of data included in your resulting log file is shown on 

the following page. 


AIRSTAR LOG FILE DATA 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-1. SAMPLE MAPSTAR DISPLAY. 

Using AirStar M3 | Page 61 

General Log Data Spray Activity Data 

Current Time and Date Swath Number 

*Job Data - Pilot Name, Aircraft Name, Start/End Time (Seconds - Logged Every 2 

and Job Name 

seconds) 

Swath Width Spray Distance (Feet - Logged Every 2 seconds) 

Log Interval & GPS Coordinates Sprayed Area (Acres - Logged Every 2 seconds) 

Minimum Log Speed Spray Rate (Gallons/Minute) 

DGPS Information Spray Volume (Gallons/Swath) 

*Environmental Data - Temperature, Spray Application Rate (Gallons/Acre) 

Relative Humidity, and Barometric 

Pressure 

Altitude, Heading, and *Magnetic Average Speed (MPH) 

Deviation 

Pattern Average Heading (Degrees) 

Spray Status Average Cross-Track Distance (Feet) 

Spray Activity Data Totals (See right Average Differential Age (Seconds) 

column) 

*Must be set by user in order to be logged


Entering Job Details 

To enter job details: 

1. Select Job Data from the main menu. (See Figure 3-2.) 

2. Enter the job data. Satloc recommends entering the following 

job details for basic day-to-day operation. 

Note: Swath Width is the only required field under the Job 

Data menu. The rest of the fields are optional. AirStar 

automatically assigns a time/date stamp to each new log as 

the log file name and automatically tracks your flight data. 

However, if you are contracting multiple pilots for different 

jobs, we recommend entering at least the basic details, as 

detailed below. 

• Job Name - name your job to further distinguish between 

log files. Up to 10 alphanumeric characters are allowed. 

Tip - Forget how to enter characters using the keypad? (See 

Figure 3-3.) 

• Swath Width - enter the swath width (or boom length of 

your aircraft). This field is required. 

Note: Double check your units (feet or meters). To 

change the units, select AirStar Setup > Units from 

the main menu. 

• Pilot - enter the name of the pilot assigned to the job. 

This is useful if contracting multiple pilots. Up to 10 

alphanumeric characters are allowed. 

• Aircraft - enter the name or tail number of the aircraft. 

This is helpful if using multiple aircraft for a job. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-2. STEP 1 - ACCESS THE JOB DATA MENU. 


FIGURE 3-3. STEP 2 - ENTER JOB DETAILS (BASIC).


Beginning/Ending Logging 

• Environmental Data (optional) - enter the 

temperature, barometer, humidity, wind speed, and 

direction on the day spraying is performed. 

Note: The following fields under the Job Data 

menu are covered in the next section, “Setting Flow 

Control Options” on page 74. These fields pertain 

to spray control options and only apply if you have 

the Flow Control module installed: Tank Volume, 

Repeat Tank Volume, Init Tank Volume, Gals/Acre, Spray 

Area, and Spray Overlap. 

• Remote A/B - pre-program an A|B line by selecting a 

pattern and entering waypoints to serve as your A, B, and 

if applicable, C points in your selected pattern. 

Note: Entering route and waypoint data is covered in 

“Chapter 4: Customizing AirStar, Smarter Navigation: 

Advanced Navigation Features.” 

Begin flying! (or land) Once you have reached a pre-designated 

flight speed (by default, this is set to 40 m.p.h.), the system will 

automatically begin logging data (provided that logging is enabled - 

if the Log Interval field is set to 99.0s, logging is turned off). If you 

fall below the pre-designated flight speed, the system will not log 

data. 

Tip! To reset the default flight speed, select AirStar Setup > Data 

Logging Setup > Log Speed from the main menu. 

Once airborne above the flight speed, you will see the following 

LOG ON message in the Data Window on the right-hand side of 

your display screen. (See Figure 3-4.) 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Note: This message will say LOG OFF while on the ground 

because logging doesn’t begin until you have reached the predesignated 

logging speed. 

FIGURE 3-4. TO BEGIN/END LOGGING - DATA WINDOW SHOWS 

LOG ON (OR LOG OFF) FLAG.


Marking a Return Point 

Save your current swathing information by marking a return point. 

This saves your swath number, swath width, pattern, acreage, 

direction, and spray information, and marks the GPS location 

where you will resume spraying. 

To mark a return point: 

• Press + *n for a shortcut to set Mark #s 1 -9) 

(*n = 1 - 9) 

- OR - 

• Press + + *n + . 

[*An on-screen prompt will ask you to enter the Mark # 

(1-100)]. 

Note: To see how the mark function might be used on the job 

(marking a return point and recalling a mark), see the example on 

page 71. 


Starting a New Log Mid-Flight 

Recalling a Mark 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

To start a new log mid-flight: 


Press + + to begin logging for a new job. 

Tip! Don’t forget to mark a return point before starting a new job if you 

haven’t finished spraying the first job. 

To recall a mark: 

• Press + *n. 

(*n = 1 - 9) 

- OR - 

• Press + + *n + . 

(*n = 1 - 100) 

Note: When you recall a mark, you will see a message in the 

Message Window telling you that the system is closing your 

current log and initializing a new log - you will have two logs for 

the same job.


Recalling a Mark from a List 

Replaying a Log 

You can view a list of marks (by Mark # and job name) you have 

saved and select a mark to return to from this list. 

To recall a mark: 

1. Press + . 

2. To select a mark, press . 

3. A prompt will ask you if you wish to return to the mark. Press 

to return to the mark, or press any other key to cancel 

and return to your list of marks. 

Note: If you return to the mark, AirStar will notify you that 

it is closing your current log and initializing a new one in the 

Message Window. 

In AirStar M3, you can view a list of existing logs and replay any of 

these logs. Replaying a log allows you to view log information, 

including spray marks, in the Map Window. 

Note: This is a view-only function. You cannot recall a log and 

attach additional information to it (for example, if you set a mark 

and return at a later time to that mark, you cannot attach 

information to the original log). AirStar M3 will initialize a new, 

separate log and you will have two logs for the job. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

To replay a log: 

1. Press + to view a list of existing logs. 

2. Press to scroll through existing logs. 

3. Press to select a log. 


4. Press to return to the Map Window and view selected 

logs.


EXAMPLE: USING THE MARK FUNCTION TO SPRAY 

MULTIPLE JOBS 

Let’s look at a typical scenario for spraying multiple jobs on 

the next page. In this example, the pilot begins spraying Field 1 

in a Back-to-Back pattern in the middle of the field. The pilot 

wishes to create a separate log for each job. 

Field 2, which falls under a different job borders Field 1. The 

pilot decides to spray Field 2 (Job #2) before finishing Field 1 

(Job #1). 

• To begin spraying Field 1, the pilot simply flies to the Field 

1. Logging for Job #1 begins when the pilot has reached an 

airspeed above 40 m.p.h. 

• To mark a return point for Field 1, the pilot presses 

+ . 

• To reset the active pattern guidance to “Waiting - A” for 

Field 2 (Job #2), the pilot presses + + . 

• To refresh the display screen, the pilot presses 

+ (optional). 

• To begin a new log for Field 2, the pilot presses 

+ + (optional). 

• Finally, to resume spraying Field 1, the pilot enters 

+ (the Mark # he entered for Field 1). AirStar 

closes your current log and initializes a new one upon 

recalling a mark. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-5. EXAMPLE: USING THE MARK FUNCTION 

TO SPRAY MULTIPLE JOBS. 

Using AirStar M3 | Page 71


Downloading Your Log File 

By default, logs are automatically saved to your PCMCIA card. 

To download your log file: 

1. Remove the PCMCIA card from the AirStar CPU. 

2. Insert the PCMCIA card into your personal computer. 

3. View log data in MapStar (or other third-party mapping 

application). 

Note: Once you have downloaded all of your log files, you 

may use the purge function ( + + ). This will 

delete all logs from the memory card. Your AirStar system 

will hold up to 1000 hours of log time, depending on the 

memory size of your PCMCIA card, before you need to 

purge your log files. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-6. REMOVING THE PCMCIA CARD. 



SETTING FLOW CONTROL OPTIONS 


In this section, we’ve provided an overview of your flow control options and listed the 

major steps you need to know to easily manage your field spraying. You’ll learn how to: 

• Set your spray rate 

• Set your spray area 

• Enter spray overlap percentage 

For more information on controlling your spray options, such as calibrating your flow 

meter and flow valve, please see “Chapter 4: Customizing AirStar, Advanced System 

Setup Options.” 

The AirStar M3 Flow Control module is an optional add-on 

product. If you have the Flow Control module installed, you gain 

valuable log spray data as well as precision control over your spray 

jobs. 

Note: Without the Flow Control module, the only spray data 

you will be able to capture is whether or not the spray was on or 

off during each part of your flight. If you do not have the Flow 

Control module, you can skip this section. 

With the Flow Control module, you can automatically set your 

desired spray rate, virtually eliminating human error. You can also 

track your spray rate at each point of your job as part of your log 

data. 


Setting Spray Rate, Area, and Overlap 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

To set the spray rate, area, and overlap: 

1. Select the Job Data menu. (See Figure 3-2.) 

2. Enter your spray control options: 


• Tank Volume - enter the number of gallons (or liters) in 

the tank. 

Note: Double check the gauge to see if it is in gallons 

or liters. To change the units, select AirStar Setup > 

Units from the main menu. 

• Repeat Tank Volume - select Yes or No to add the 

initial tank volume to the remaining amount. For example, 

if you have 20 gallons left in your tank, and your original 

Tank Volume amount is 400 gallons, your tank volume 

will be 420 when you select “Yes.” This allows you to add 

a pre-determined amount to the remaining tank volume. 

• Init Tank Volume - select Yes or No to reset your tank 

volume to the original amount set in Tank Volume. This 

is useful when you always want to return to the same 

pre-determined amount. For example, if you have 20 

gallons left in your tank and your original tank volume is 

400 gallons, your tank volume will return to 400 when 

you select “Yes.” 

• Gals/Acre (Spray Rate) - enter the desired spray rate. 

Enter the number of gallons (or liters if using metric) you 

wish to spray per acre (or hectare). 

• Spray Area - select to reset an area for a new pattern or 

log and set the spray area counters.


•Reset Area: New Log or New Pat will reset the area 

counter in the Data Window when you press the shortcut 

keys to begin a new pattern or new log, respectively. So 

for example, if New Log is selected, the area counter will 

reset when you begin a new log. If New Pat is selected, 

the area counter will reset when you begin a new pattern. 

•Spray Area Counters: Set up to 10 spray area 

counters and a total area counter. Use the SET key to 

enable an area counter. For example, if you want to store 

the area of different fields, you could turn on the area 

counter for the first field you fly, then turn on the area 

counter for the second field you fly when you move on to 

the next field. At the end of the day, you can recall the 

area of each field. This is useful if flying back and forth 

between different jobs and you are not using the logging 

function (if logging is turned on, area is stored with the 

log). 

• Spray Overlap - enter the spray overlap percentage you 

wish to view in the Map Window. The spray overlap 

visually represents the distance beyond the spray boom 

that spray is applied in the Map Window. If you enter this 

percentage as “0,” the Map Window will only show spray 

applied as the length of the spray boom. 

For example, a 65-foot spray width with a spray overlap 

of 10% will display a 6.5-foot total spray overlap - 3.25 

feet of overlap on each side of the spray boom. (See 

Figure 3-7.) 

Note: Spray overlap applies to the display in the Map 

Window only. It does not apply to guidance or logged 

data. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-7. SPRAY OVERLAP. 



USING THE PRE-FLIGHT CHECKLIST 


In this section, we’ve provided a handy pre-flight checklist (also included in your 

Quick Reference Guide). This checklist prepares you for flying a simple spray job. For 

help with using more advanced navigation techniques, see “Chapter 4: Customizing 

AirStar, Smarter Navigation.” 


AirStar M3 Pre-Flight Checklist 

1. Insert the PCMCIA Memory Card. 

Reminder! Card MUST be inserted before turning 

on power if running AirStar from the PCMCIA card 

(default setup) 

2. Turn on the AirStar M3. 

� Are the main and display screen power switches 

ON? 

� Did the system run a Lightbar self-test and 

bring up the Swathing screen in the main 

Message Window? 

3. Check your system setup. 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


The main Swathing screen will appear in the 

Message Window after the Lightbar self-test is 

complete. 

Press in succession to scroll through the Swathing, Navigation, and GPS screens in the 

Message Window.


AirStar M3 Pre-Flight Checklist (Continued) 

Swathing Screen: 

� Is the Swathing screen showing Waiting- A? 

GPS Status Indicators and GPS Screen: 

� Do you have a GPS signal? If your GPS and 

Differential status lights are lit, you have 

acquired GPS and differential signals. If they are 

blinking, you have not. 

� Is your GPS signal accurate? See the GPS screen 

on the right for target data rates. 

Target GPS Data on GPS Screen. 


AirStar M3 Pre-Flight Checklist (Continued) 

4. Enter Job Details 

Enter any desired job details using the JOB DATA 

menu. 

Note: The only required field under this menu is 

Swath Width. 

5. Select a pattern and direction (from main Swathing screen) 

� Is your desired pattern showing in the Swathing 

screen? 

� Is your desired direction showing in the 

Swathing screen? 

Ready to Fly! 

See “Flying an Open Pattern” on page 82. 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Keypad shortcut to access JOB DATA 

menu. 

Keypad shortcut to scroll through 

available PATTERNS. 

Keypad shortcut to CHANGE 

DIRECTION.


FLYING AN OPEN PATTERN 


In this section, we’ve provided an overview of flying a basic open pattern with AirStar M3. 

In the next section, we’ve taken a look at flying closed patterns. 

What’s an “open” pattern? 

A “pattern” in AirStar M3 refers to the spray pattern you use to 

spray your field. There are two types of patterns supported by 

AirStar M3: open and closed patterns. 

In this section, we’ve taken a look at flying the most basic type of 

pattern: an open pattern. In an open pattern, swaths are flown 

consecutively (See Figure 3-8.). This is considered an “open” 

pattern, because this type of pattern allows you to fly an unlimited, 

or open, number of swaths. 

There are two open patterns in AirStar M3: Back-to-Back (BK-BK) 

and Expand (EXPND). In this section, we’ve shown examples of 

flying each pattern: 

• Flying a Back-to-Back pattern 

• Flying an Expand pattern 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-8. SAMPLE BACK-TO-BACK (BK-BK) PATTERN. 



How do I establish guidance for my pattern? 

Both open and closed patterns need an initial guideline on which to 

base the pattern’s GPS coordinates. In AirStar M3, this initial 

guideline is called the A|B line (for an open pattern), or A|B|C line 

(for a closed pattern). 

In a Back-to-Back pattern, point A of the A|B line is the beginning 

of the line; point B is the end of the line. All swaths you fly will 

then be parallel to this initial A|B line. (See Figure 3-8.) 

Note: The A|B line may be inside or outside of the field. 

Points A and B should be as far apart as possible to ensure 

the accuracy of the line. Establishing A and B points too close 

together can result in a small error that will create a large 

divergence over a long distance. (See Figure 3-9.) 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-9. EFFECT OF A SHORT A|B LINE. 



Flying a Back-to-Back Pattern (BK-BK) 

To fly a Back-to-Back pattern: 

1. Review the Pre-Flight Checklist. Please review the 

checklist (also included in your Quick Reference Guide) for 

instructions on turning on your system and checking your 

system setup, as well as the minimum requirements for 

entering job details, pattern, and direction. 

Reminder! For a Back-to-Back pattern, the only required 

fields are: Pattern (select BK-BK), Direction, and Swath Width. 

2. Ready to fly! Begin flying. Once you have reached your predesignated 

airspeed, your Data Window will show that logging 

is on (LOG ON), provided that logging is enabled. (See Figure 

3-4. on page 65.) 

3. Create the initial A|B line. 

Note: The A|B line in this example will also be Swath #1. 

a. Fly to the field. 

b. Turn spray on. 

c. Press the remote Swath Advance button (if installed). 

This establishes point A of your A|B line, and the starting 

point of Swath #1. Press to advance your swath if 

you have not installed the remote Swath Advance button. 

d. Fly to the end of your swath and press the remote 

Swath Advance button. This establishes the B point of 

your A|B line and the end point of Swath #1. In a BK-BK 

pattern, all subsequent swaths will be flown parallel to 

this A|B line. 

e. Turn spray off. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-10. STEP 3 - CREATE THE INITIAL A|B LINE. 



4. Make the turn: use your Lightbar for guidance. 

a. Press the remote Swath Advance button at some point 

before the next swath (in this example, Swath #2). 

b. Use Lightbar guidance to find Swath #2. 

c. At the beginning of Swath #2, turn spray on. 

d. Fly Swath #2. 

e. Turn spray off. 

See Figure 3-11. Step 4 - Make the Turn: Use Your Lightbar for 

Guidance. 

5. Repeat Step 4, above, for subsequent swaths until you 

have reached the end of the field. 

6. Land. Logging ends when you fall below the pre-designated 

logging speed (40 m.p.h.). 

Note: Obviously, you may not always be able to fly a BK-to-BK 

pattern from start to finish. You may need to interrupt a job to 

refill the hopper, to fly a neighboring field that falls under a 

different job, etc. See “Common In-Flight Tasks” on page 108 for 

a reminder on how to: 

• mark/recall a return point 

• begin a new log 


a. Press 

Swath Advance 

at beginning 

of turn 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

b. Use lightbar guidance to find Swath #2 

e. Turn off spray 

c. Turn on spray 

d. Fly Swath #2 

FIGURE 3-11. STEP 4 - MAKE THE TURN: 

USE YOUR LIGHTBAR FOR GUIDANCE. 


Lightbar guidance: the top row of LEDs shows 

cross-track distance and direction to the target 

swath; the bottom row of LEDs shows the heading 

angle to your target swath. LEDs lined up in the 

center (c.) means you’re lined up on the swath!


Back-to-Back Pattern Tips 

When flying a Back-to-Back pattern, there are two common 

scenarios you may run into: 

• you fly a neighboring field using the same A|B line you used for 

the first field. Only, now you are flying to the left of the A|B 

line instead of to the right (or vice versa). To do so, you need 

to know how to change direction. 

• you need to skip to the end of the field and fly your swaths in 

reverse order (due to a wind shift for example). To do so, you 

need to know how to decrement swaths. 

EXAMPLE 1: CHANGE DIRECTION 

In this example, we finished flying our first field and wish to fly 

a neighboring field using the same A|B line. The first field was 

to the right of our A|B line; the neighboring field is to the left 

of the A|B line. So, we need to change the direction of our 

pattern for accurate guidance and log data. 

1. Finish spraying the first field. 

2. Press to change direction from the right of the A|B 

line to the left of the A|B line. 

3. Fly to the neighboring field. 

4. Spray the neighboring field. Press the remote Swath 

Advance button to increment swaths as usual. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


FIGURE 3-12. EXAMPLE 1: CHANGE DIRECTION (FROM RIGHT TO LEFT).


EXAMPLE 2: DECREMENT SWATHS 

In this example, we decide to skip to the end of the field and 

fly our swaths in reverse order. See Figure 3-13. Example 2: 

Decrement Swaths. 

1. Fly to the end of the field. 

2. Press Swath Advance until you are on the current swath, 

or press + + *n (*n = 1 - 999) + to 

advance to the proper swath. Note: The swath line in the 

main AirStar Map Window will show you your current Swath # 

in relation to the field. 

3. Press + . This turns your Swath Advance 

button into a Swath Decrement button. Note: To 

return to the normal mode of operation, Swath Advance, you 

will press 

+ . 

4. Fly the remainder of your pattern. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-13. EXAMPLE 2: DECREMENT SWATHS. 



Flying an Expand Pattern (EXPND) 

The Expand (EXPND) pattern begins with the A|B line in the 

center of the field. Successive swaths increase outward. This 

pattern is useful for fields with a visible center line or with a long, 

irregular shape. For a 9-swath Expand Left pattern, spray the 

swaths in the following sequence: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. 

Tip! Select the Expand pattern for fields with a visible center line, or with a 

long, irregular shape. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-14. EXPAND PATTERN (EXPND). 



FLYING A CLOSED PATTERN 


In this section, we’ve provided an overview of flying closed patterns with AirStar M3. In 

the previous section, we’ve taken a look at flying an open pattern. 

What’s a Closed Pattern? 

A “pattern” in AirStar M3 refers to the spray pattern you use to 

spray your field. There are two types of patterns supported by 

AirStar M3: open and closed patterns. 

In this section, we will take a look at flying a closed pattern. In a 

closed pattern, in addition to defining the A|B line, you establish 

the length of your field by creating a third point - the “C” point. 

The swaths are flown inside the area defined by the A|B|C points. 

This is considered a “closed” pattern because this type of pattern 

limits the number of swaths you can fly. 

There are four closed patterns supported by AirStar M3: 

• Racetrack (RCTRK) 

• Quick Racetrack (QKRTK) 

• Reverse Racetrack (RVRTK) 

• Squeeze (SQUEZ) 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

How do I establish guidance for my pattern? 


Both open and closed patterns need an initial guideline on which to 

base the pattern’s parallel swathing. In AirStar M3, this initial 

guideline is called the A|B line (for an open pattern), or A|B|C line 

(for a closed pattern). 

In closed patterns, point A of the A|B|C line is the beginning of the 

line; point B is the end of the line. All subsequent swaths will be 

sprayed parallel to this line. Point C will determine the length of 

the field. So, the number of swaths you can fly is determined by 

your C point. 

Note: The A|B line may be inside or outside of the field. 

Points A and B should be as far apart as possible to ensure 

the accuracy of the A|B line. See the note on page 84 for 

details.


Flying a Closed Pattern 

Flying any of the closed patterns shown in this section (for a 

review of each pattern, see pages 96 - 106) is similar to flying an 

open pattern with the exception that you need to set your C point 

after setting the initial A|B line. 

To set your C point, press the Swath Advance button, just as you 

do to set your A and B points. 

Tip! You do not have to set your “C” point before you spray the field. You can 

set the C point while you are spraying the field. 

Review “Flying an Open Pattern” on page 82 for an overview of 

how to set your A|B line and use the Lightbar guidance for your 

selected pattern. 

There are a couple of common problems you may run into when 

flying a closed pattern: 

• your field is not divided into an even number of swaths. When 

point C is established and the distance is beyond an exact 

swath width, AirStar M3 shows the swath number of the next 

highest swath. You can ignore cross-track guidance on this 

swath and make a visual pass. (See Figure 3-15.) 

• for the Quick Racetrack pattern, when marking your C point, 

you will need to estimate where the center line of the field is 

with the naked eye. Obviously, you may not correctly 

estimate the exact center of the field. In this case, you may 

have a portion of the field left over after guidance for the 

Quick Racetrack pattern shows you have finished flying your 

field. So, to finish flying the field, you will need to change your 

pattern to an open, Back-to-Back pattern. See “Flying a Quick 

Racetrack (QKRTK) Pattern” on page 102 for details. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


FIGURE 3-15. IGNORE CROSS-TRACK GUIDANCE ON POINT C.


Flying a Racetrack (RCTRK) Pattern 

The Racetrack (RCTRK) pattern is a series of loops, or 

“racetracks.” The results in wider, smoother turns. 

In the Racetrack pattern, you first fly each side of a field, then 

alternately work from Swath #2 to the middle, and from the 

middle toward the other end of the field. For an 8-swath field, fly 

the swaths in the following order: 1, 8, 2, 5, 3, 6, 4, 7. 

Tip! Select the Racetrack pattern (RCTRK) to fly wide, smooth turns. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-16. RACETRACK PATTERN (RCTRK) - RIGHT. 



Flying a Quick Racetrack (QKRTK) Pattern 

The Quick Racetrack (QKRTK) pattern is similar to the Racetrack 

pattern. However, in the Quick Racetrack pattern, you set your C 

point in the center of the field, rather than at the end of the field. 

This is called a “Quick” Racetrack because it saves you from having 

to fly to the end of the field to press the C point. 

In the Quick Racetrack pattern, you fly a constant size loop after 

setting the A, B, and C points. Point C is the swath on or after the 

field center line. 

For an 8-swath field, fly the swaths in the following sequence: 1, 5, 

2, 6, 3, 7, 4, 8. 

Note: When marking your C point, you will need to estimate 

where the center line of the field is with the naked eye. 

Obviously, you may not correctly estimate the exact center of 

the field. In this case, you may have a portion of the field left over 

after guidance for the Quick Racetrack pattern shows you have 

finished flying your field. 

If this happens, change the pattern to Back-to-Back to finish flying 

the field. Press + to access the pattern menu. In the 

Swath Type field, select BK-BK. AirStar will provide guidance 

based on your current location and your existing A|B line. 

Tip! Select the Quick Racetrack pattern when you don’t want to fly to the 

end of the field to press your C point. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-17. QUICK RACETRACK (QKRTK) - RIGHT. 



Flying a Reverse Racetrack (RVRTK) Pattern 

The Reverse Racetrack (RVRTK) pattern is also similar to the 

Racetrack pattern. This pattern is called a “Reverse” Racetrack 

because you are flying one direction, but swaths are incrementing 

in the opposite direction. In this example, we are flying to the 

right, but the swaths are incrementing to the left. 

Unlike the Racetrack pattern, in Reverse Racetrack, you set your 

A|B line in the middle of the field. Point C is still on the edge of the 

field. This pattern is recommended for circular fields or other 

fields where the center line is clearly visible. 

For a 9-swath Right Reverse Racetrack pattern, spray the swaths in 

the following sequence: 1, 6, 2, 7, 3, 8, 4, 9, 5. 

Tip! Select the Reverse Racetrack pattern when flying circular fields or 

other fields where the center line is clearly visible. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-18. REVERSE RACETRACK (RVRTK) - RIGHT. 



Flying a Squeeze (SQUEZ) Pattern 

The Squeeze (SQUEZ) pattern consists of loops of decreasing size, 

from the outside of the field to the middle of the field. In a Squeeze 

pattern, the outside edges of your field (the largest loop) are 

defined by your A|B|C points. 

This pattern allows you to make wide turns at the beginning of 

your spray job when your load is heavy, and make narrower turns 

as your load becomes lighter. 

For an 8-swath field, spray the swaths in the following sequence: 

1, 8, 2, 7, 3, 6, 4, 5. 

Tip! Select the Squeeze pattern when carrying a heavy load. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE 3-19. SQUEEZE PATTERN (SQUEZ) - RIGHT. 



COMMON IN-FLIGHT TASKS 


In this section, we’ve provided a summary of common tasks you may need to complete 

in-flight. 

When flying a basic open or closed pattern, there are several tasks 

you may need to do: 

• Set A, B, and C points 

• Advance/decrement a swath 

• Change a pattern mid-flight 

• Mark a return point 

• Reset your current pattern 

• Clear the display screen 

• Begin a new log 

• Recall a mark 

• Replay a log 

• Zoom in/out on display screen 

• Toggle through Message Window options (Swathing, 

Navigation, and GPS screens) 

The following table provides directions for completing each task. 

Note: These are also included in your Quick Reference 

Guide. 


COMMON IN-FLIGHT TASKS 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Task Instructions 

Set A, B, C Points 

Waiting A 

“--A” appears and center yellow LEDs remain lit 

until an “A” point is entered. Enter an A point. 

Press the remote Swath Advance button or . 

Waiting B 

Upper LED row flashes until a “B” point is entered. 

Enter a B point. 

Press the remote Swath Advance button or . 

Waiting C 

Lower LED row flashes until a “C” point is entered. 

Enter a C point. 

Press the remote Swath Advance button or 

Swath Increment/Decrement Tasks 

Advance to the next swath 

Press the remote Swath Advance button or 

Advance to a particular swath 

. 

Press + + *n + (*n=1-999) 

Decrement a swath 

Press + . This changes your remote Swath 

Advance button to a remote Swath Decrement 

button. To change back to a Swath Advance button, 

press + . 

(Note: If using keypad for Swath Advance instead of 

remote Swath Advance button, press to 

decrement swaths and to increment swaths.)


COMMON IN-FLIGHT TASKS (CONTINUED) 

Multiple Jobs Tasks 

Change a pattern mid-job 

Mark a return point 

Reset your current pattern 

Clear the display screen 

Begin a new log 

Recall a mark 

Replay a log 


+ (Note: This will only work when switching 

from a closed to open pattern. You cannot switch from 

an open to a closed pattern) 

Press + *n (*n=1-9). This short key 

sequence may be used for the first 9 Mark 

Returns 

- OR - 

Press + + *n + (*n=1-100) 

+ + 

+ 

Press + + to begin logging for 

a new job. 

Press the + *n (*n = 1-9) 

- OR - 

Press + +* n + (*n = 1-100) 

Press + to scroll through logs. 

Press to select a log. 

Press to return to the Map Window and view 

selected logs. 


COMMON IN-FLIGHT TASKS (CONTINUED) 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 



Display Tasks 

Zoom in/out on Map Window display 

Press + to access the main Pan/Zoom 

options. Follow the instructions on the screen to 

zoom: 

Toggle through Message Window 

options (Swathing, Navigation, and GPS 

displays) 

Use the keypad numbers to pan: 

Note: The keypad will only function as pan controls from 

the Pan/Zoom Options menu in the Message Window 

(see above). 

Press in succession to scroll through the 

Swathing, Navigation, and GPS screens in the Message 

Window. See “Chapter 2: Getting Started” for a 

review of these screens. 

Shutdown Tasks 

Proper shutdown ensures log data is 

saved. Press + + - OR - 

+ + .


COMMON IN-FLIGHT WARNINGS 


In this section, we’ve provided a summary of common in-flight warnings. Please see 

“Chapter 5: Troubleshooting” for additional troubleshooting tips. 

Your AirStar M3 Lightbar provides two different types of warnings: 

• LED warnings. LED read outs will flash to advise you of: 

• Swath double spray (on same pass) 

• Invalid GPS 

• Polygon edge warnings (if set by you. See Chapter 4: 

Customizing AirStar, Advanced Setup Options”). 

• Bad DOP (Dilution of Precision). This is typical of a poor 

GPS solution. 

• Lightbar display warnings. The Lightbar will flash warning 

messages in the left and right displays when the flow control 

unit is operating outside expected limits. 

FIGURE 3-20. LIGHTBAR DISPLAY WARNINGS. 


LIGHTBAR LED WARNINGS 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

If you see this on the 

Lightbar... 


This means... 

Extrapolated GPS 

Center yellow LEDs blink. Reboot system and check 

for receiver and power status lights. Refer to your 

receiver manual for more information on status 

indicators. 

Polygon edge warning 

Upper LED row flashes according to the warning 

times set in AirStar Setup > Edge Warning, Start 

Warn/Stop Warn fields. For example, if you set Start 

Warn to 2.8 seconds and Stop Warn to 0.8 seconds, 

the Lightbar will begin flashing 2.8 seconds before 

you enter the polygon (reach the polygon edge) and 

continue until 0.8 seconds before you reach the 

polygon edge. 

Swath double spray 

Left and right LED displays flash when “spray on” is 

detected on a previously sprayed swath. (This will 

flash until the swath number is changed.) 

An underscore in front of the swath number also 

indicates a previously sprayed swath. (By default, this 

is turned ON. To turn OFF/ON, select AirStar 

Setup > Lightbar Setup, Double Spray Warn field.) 

Poor DOP 

Lower center yellow LED flashes. Check status lights 

on receiver. Reboot and wait up to 5 minutes for a 

better solution. Increasing or decreasing your mask 

angle may also improve DOP (Select AirStar Setup 

> GPS & Time Setup, SV Mask Angle field from the 

main menu).


LIGHTBAR DISPLAY WARNINGS 


Lightbar... 

This means... 

No communication with the flow control. 

1. Select Flow Control from the main menu. Make 

sure the Flow Mode field is set to Flow Control or 

Flow Monitor and check your Flow settings. 

2. Check the connection between the GPIO cable 

and flow control harness. 

3. Check the connection between the flow cable and 

CPU. 

The spray switch is on, but there is no flow being 

read through the meter. 

1. Check the condition of the spray handle switch to 

be sure that it is not being triggered at the incorrect 

time and that it is installed correctly. 

2. Check that the meter is properly connected and 

not blocked. 

3. Check that flow is actually passing through the 

Flow system. 

Spray switch is off, but significant flow is metered. 

1. Check the spray switch to be sure that it is not 

being triggered at the incorrect time and that it is 

correctly installed. 

2. Disconnect the spray cable wires from the spray 

system and touch the two wires together. If the 

spray works, you have a faulty switch. Contact your 

Satloc dealer. 


LIGHTBAR DISPLAY WARNINGS 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Lightbar... 


This means... 

Spray switch is on, but flow rate is consistently 5% 

high for > 4 seconds. 

Try re-calibrating your flow valve - see “Calibrating 

Your Flow Valve” on page 141. If that doesn’t work, 

follow the steps for “No Flow,” above. 

Spray switch is on, but flow rate is consistently 5% 

low for > 4 seconds. 

Try re-calibrating your flow valve - see “Calibrating 

Your Flow Valve” on page 141. If that doesn’t work, 

follow the steps for “No Flow,” above.

Chapter 

4 

CUSTOMIZING AIRSTAR: 

ADVANCED FEATURES 

Advanced System Setup Options 

Optimizing GPS 

Smarter Navigation: Planning Your Spray Jobs


ADVANCED SYSTEM SETUP OPTIONS 


In Chapter 2, we showed you how to set up the basic features you need to get up and 

running with AirStar M3. The basic setup will meet most people’s needs. However, if 

you’ve been using AirStar for awhile, you may wish to further customize your AirStar 

features. 

In this chapter, we’ve provided an overview of advanced setup options. These advanced 

options make the software suitable for nearly every aerial application. Many of these 

settings you need to set only once or change infrequently. 

The basic setup covered in Chapter 2 will meet most people’s 

needs. However, if you’ve been using AirStar for awhile, you may 

wish to further customize your AirStar setup. Advanced setup 

options include: 

• Lightbar setup: select the Lightbar style, set the left and 

right displays, desensitize the LED distance warnings for when 

navigating to a mark or waypoint, turn OFF/ON the doublespray 

warning, change the LED distance settings, and set the 

upper and lower LEDs to flash as a solid bar of lights. 

• Message Window, Swathing screen display setup: set 

the criteria you will see in the Message Window, Swathing 

screen. 

• Logging setup: edit the logging speed, change the amount of 

time between recorded coordinates, or turn off the automatic 

function of creating a new log for each job. 

• Edge warning setup: set the Lightbar to provide a warning 

when nearing the edge of a defined area, such as a polygon. 

This is a useful feature when spraying areas with no visible 

boundaries, such as a forest plot. 

• Units: set individual criteria units, rather than designating a 

unit system (U.S. or metric) system-wide. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Customizing AirStar: Advanced Features | Page 119 

• System options: set system options, such as selecting a 

language, setting your magnetic variation from True North, or 

changing the time delay to compensate for the difference 

between actual navigation or spray data and the visual 

representation on the Lightbar or display screen. 

• Screen setup: set your default screen scale, pan/zoom scales, 

and display options in the Custom Settings Window. 

• Flow control setup: calibrate your flow meter and valve, 

and define flow control options, including the flow method, 

volume, volume/area, and the method AirStar uses to reset 

the area counters. 

• AirStar software setup: by default, your AirStar M3 

software is designed to run from the PCMCIA card and save 

data to the PCMCIA card. If desired, you can change this 

setup and run AirStar software from your hard drive.


Lightbar Setup 

Setting the 

Lightbar 

Type 

Lightbar settings include: 

• setting the Lightbar style 

• setting the left and right Lightbar displays 

• desensitizing the LED distance warnings when flying to a mark 

or waypoint 

• turning the Double-Spray Warning off/on (default is ON) 

• changing the LED distance settings 

• setting the upper and lower LEDs to flash as a solid bar of 

lights, rather than use the individual LED distance settings 

The Lightbar type refers to the style of the Lightbar. This is set at 

the factory and should not need to be changed. 

The default type, Type 2, indicates a digital Lightbar. Type 1 

indicates an analog Lightbar, which is no longer used in the field. 

To set the Lightbar type: 

1. Select AirStar Setup > Lightbar Setup from the main 

menu. 

2. Review the Type field entry. It should say Type_2. 

Note: The Type field in AirStar M3 should always be set to 

Type_2. 


Setting the 

Left and 

Right 

Lightbar 

Displays 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Your Lightbar comes with pre-set left and right displays. By default, 

the left display shows the current swath number and the right display 

shows the cross-track error (or distance to the current swath). 

However, depending on your application or use of advanced 

navigation, you may wish to change the left and/or right display to 

show other data. For example, perhaps you wish to change the 

right Lightbar display to show the distance to the polygon edge. 

To change the left/right Lightbar displays: 


menu. 

2. In the Lft Disp: and Rgt Disp: fields, enter the desired display 

options for the left and right displays. Refer to the table below 

for available options. 

LIGHTBAR AND DISPLAY OPTIONS. 

Option Definition 

Swath# Current swath number 

Blank Lightbar display is blank 

Swath Width Current swath width 

Log_Time Time of active logging session 

Log_Name Name of active logging session 

Aux (None) Auxiliary device input 

Wind Wind velocity (manual input) 

Amt/Swath Average amount sprayed per swath 

Amt/Minute Volume of spray per minute 

Amt/Area Volume sprayed per acre or hectare 

Amt_Left Volume remaining in tank 

Amt_Used Volume sprayed 

DOP Dilution of precision




DOP/DF Differential age in seconds and dilution of 

precision. Value of 5 or less is OK for 

DOP; Value of 2 - 3600s (if using COAST) 

OK for DF. 

SV/DF Satellite in view and differential age 

S#/DF Swath number and differential age in 

seconds 

Diff_Age Age of differential corrections 

ArrivalTime Estimated time of arrival to waypoint 

Bearing Bearing to waypoint or mark (relative to 

True North) 

Wpt_Range Distance to waypoint or mark 

Rt/Wpt Identification number for route and 

waypoint 

EdgeTime Seconds to polygon edge 

EdgeDist Distance to polygon edge 

PolyEntry # Polygon point number (out of number of 

points in polygon) 

PolyArea Total area of polygon 

In_Poly Displays whether you are inside or outside 

of an active polygon 

Poly_ID Polygon identification number 

Job_ID Job or Plot identification number 

SprayTime Cumulative seconds of spray 

Acres Total acres sprayed 

Time Hours/minutes/seconds 

Altitude WGS-84 ellipsoid altitude 

Speed Ground speed 

Track Ground track (relative to True North) 

Swath_Hdg Swath heading (shows each direction you 

could be flying on a swath - e.g., 90/270) 


De- 

sensitizing 

the LED 

Distance 

Warning 

Turning 

the 

Double- 

Spray 

Warning 

Off/On 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 




X_Err Cross-track error 

Setting the Non-Swath Desense field allows you to navigate to/from 

a mark or waypoint with less sensitive LED distance warnings. The 

distance each Lightbar LED represents is multiplied by the value 

entered in this field. 

For example, if the first LED is set to 3.0 feet and you enter a “20” 

in the Non-Swath Desense field, the first LED will not light up until 

you are within 60 feet of a swath. 

Note: As soon as you press (or the remote Swath Advance 

button) to enter the “A” point of a pattern, the LED-desensitizer 

is deactivated. 

To desensitize the LED distance warnings: 


menu. 

2. Enter a multiplier in the Non-Swath Desense field. 

The Lightbar Double-Spray Warning will flash when you are 

spraying a previously sprayed swath. By default, this is turned on. 

FIGURE 4-1. LIGHTBAR DOUBLE-SPRAY WARNING.


Changing 

the LED 

Distance 

Settings 

However, in certain circumstances you may wish to turn the 

warning off. For example, perhaps you are fertilizing at a highapplication 

rate that requires more than one pass to get the 

desired coverage. 

To turn OFF/ON the Double-Spray Warning: 


menu. 

2. In the Double Spray Warn field, select Yes to turn the warning 

on, or No to turn the warning off. 

Each LED on the Lightbar serves as a Lightbar warning. The top 

row of LEDs will light up when you are within a certain distance 

from a swath; the bottom row will light up when you are a certain 

heading angle from a swath. 

Each LED represents a certain value. These can be changed; 

however, the factory-recommended settings are shown in the 

following table. 

DEFAULT LED VALUES. 

Light # 

(Distance) 

Feet A_Lgt # 

(Heading Angle) 

Degrees 

01 3.00 01 0.5 

02 6.00 02 1.0 

03 9.00 03 2.0 

04 12.00 04 3.0 

05 24.00 05 4.0 

06 48.00 06 8.0 

07 96.00 07 12.0 

08 250.00 08 16.0 


Setting the 

Upper/ 

Lower 

LEDs to 

Flash as a 

Solid Bar 

of Lights 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

DEFAULT LED VALUES. 

Light # 

(Distance) 

To change the LED settings: 


Feet A_Lgt # 

(Heading Angle) 

Degrees 

09 400.00 09 20.0 

10 550.00 10 24.0 

11 700.00 11 28.0 

12 850.00 12 32.0 

13 1000.00 13 36.0 

14 1150.00 14 40.0 

15 1300.00 15 45.0 


menu. 

2. Enter the desired settings in the Light # fields and the A_LGT # 

fields. 

You can set the Lightbar LEDs to display as a solid bar of lights, 

rather than using the individual LED settings. By default, the top 

row of lights (cross-track distance) is set to display as a solid bar of 

lights and the bottom row of lights (heading angle) is set to display 

as one light (if you select one light, the outermost LED that 

represents your cross-track distance or heading angle will light up). 

To set the Upper/Lower LEDs to display as a solid bar of 

lights: 


menu. 

2. In the Upper Bar Solid? and/or Lower Bar Solid? fields, select Yes 

to set the LEDs to display as a solid bar of lights, or No to use 

the individual LED distance settings.


Message Window, Swathing Screen Setup 

Changing 

the 

Swathing 

Screen 

Defaults 

You can customize the settings in the Swathing screen of the 

Message Window. 

Reminder! In the Message Window, you can toggle between the Swathing 

screen, Navigation screen, and GPS screen by pressing . 

The Swathing screen defaults are shown below: 

FIGURE 4-2. SWATHING SCREEN DEFAULT DISPLAY SETTINGS. 

To change the Swathing screen defaults: 

1. Select AirStar Setup > Display Setup from the main 

menu. 

2. In Fields 1-3, select from the display options. The Swathing 

screen display options are the same display options as the 

Lightbar. See “Lightbar and Display Options.” on page 121 for 

a breakdown of options. 

3. In the Distance field, select from the following: 

• >A, >B: shows the distance to A or the distance to B. 


Logging Setup 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


• A to B: shows the distance from A to B (the length of the 

A|B line). 

• Spryon: shows the distance you have flown from the 

point you pressed the Spray ON switch (this resets each 

time you hit the remote Spray On switch). 

4. In the Sp-On Disp (Spray ON Display) field, enter the spray rate 

data you wish to see when spray is ON (Acres, Gal(lons)/ 

Swa(th), Gal(lons)/Min(ute), Gal(lons)/Acre, Gal(lons) Used). 

5. In the Sp-Off Disp (Spray OFF Display) field, enter the spray rate 

data you wish to see when Spray is OFF (Acres, Gal(lons) 

Used, Gal(lons)/Swa(th), Gallons). 

Logging setup options include: 

• changing the logging speed (the flight speed at which logging 

automatically turns on) 

• changing the logging interval (how often data is recorded) 

• turning off the default that tells AirStar to create a new log 

with each new job 

• downloading your log files to a PCMCIA card if you are 

logging directly to your hard drive. 

Warning! This is NOT RECOMMENDED. By default, 

factory settings save logs directly to the PC card. This 

avoids potentially locking up your AirStar system. 

• enabling the PLOT key


Changing 

the 

Logging 

Speed 

Changing 

the 

Logging 

Interval 

Logging begins when you reach an airborne flight speed of 40 miles 

per hour, provided that logging is enabled (you must set the log interval 

to enable logging - see below). You can change this setting if desired. 

To change the logging speed: 


main menu. 

2. In the Log Speed field, notice 

the current log speed is shown 

on the screen. 


new log speed. 

In “Chapter 2: Getting Started,” we recommended you set AirStar 

to update log data every 2 seconds. You can change this setting if 

desired. 

To change the logging interval: 


main menu. 

2. In the Log Interval field, notice 

the current log interval is 



new log interval. 

Tip! We recommend setting your logging interval at 2 seconds. 


Turning 

Off the 

New Log 

for New 

Job 

Feature 

Transferring 

Logs from 

the Hard 

Drive to the 

PCMCIA 

Card 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Warning! If the Logging Interval is set to 99.0 seconds, logging is 

turned OFF. You must set a logging interval to enable logging. 

By default, a new log is created when the Job Name is changed. 

However, sometimes you may not want a new log started for a 

new job. For example, perhaps you are flying multiple fields for one 

customer and do not want a separate log for each field. 

To turn off the new log for new job feature: 

1. Select Data Logging Setup from the main menu. 

2. In the New Log for Job field, 

notice the default is set to Yes. 

3. Select Yes or No, to turn this 

feature on or off as desired. 

By default, factory settings save logs directly to the PCMCIA card. 

However, in the event you have changed the default to log to your 

hard drive instead of your card, here are the instructions for 

transferring log files from your hard drive to the PCMCIA card.


Enabling 

the PLOT 

Key 

To transfer logs from the hard drive to the PCMCIA card: 

1. Select AirStar Setup > Data Logging Setup > File 

Transfer from the main menu. 

2. Select Transfer All Logs or Transfer Selected! to 

download all logs, or only certain logs, respectively. 

3. After selecting which logs to download, select whether to 

transfer logs to an external drive (your removable PCMCIA 

card) or to a serial port (connects directly to a portable 

computer in the cockpit). 

Note: Satloc recommends recording your log files to the 

memory card. AirStar transfers data much faster to the card 

than to the serial port. 

By default, the PLOT key is disabled. This does NOT affect use of 

the PLOT key for advanced navigation in AirStar. It allows service 

personnel to simulate spray on the display screen for 

troubleshooting purposes. 

Note: This setting is for authorized service personnel only. 


Edge Warning Setup 

Setting the 

Edge 

Warning 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


The Edge Warning is a Lightbar warning that tells you when you 

reach the edge of a defined area, such as a polygon you have 

defined. This is a useful feature when spraying areas with no visible 

boundaries, such as a forest plot. 

By default, the Edge Warning is set to NO (turned off). When 

setting an edge warning, you can elect to get a warning either 

when you are a certain distance from the edge (in feet or meters), 

or time (in seconds) from the edge. 

To set the edge warning: 

1. Select AirStar Setup 

> Edge Warning from 

the main menu. You will 

see the following 

screen. 

2. In the Units field, select whether you wish to receive an edge 

warning when you are a certain distance or time from the edge. 

3. In the Wpt Warning field, enter Yes or No to receive a 

Lightbar warning when you are nearing a waypoint. 

Note: You will only see the waypoint warning when you are 

navigating to a waypoint. 

4. In the Start Warn field, enter the time or distance from the 

edge that you wish to begin seeing the warning. 

5. In the Stop Warn field, enter the time or distance from the 

edge that you wish to stop seeing the warning.


Units Setup 

Setting the 

Units 

Tip! In practical application, many of our customers have found that setting 

Start Warn to 2.8 seconds and Stop Warn to 0.8 seconds works well. 

However, you can play with the settings in tenths-of-a-second increments to 

meet your individual reaction time and spray system needs. 

In Chapter 2, we recommended that you set your units systemwide 

(U.S. or metric). You do, however, have the option of setting 

the units for the following criteria individually. 

• distance 

• area 

• speed 

• range 

• cross-track 

• altitude 

To set units: 

1. Select AirStar Setup > Units from the main menu. 

2. Set each field to U.S. or metric as desired. 


System Options Setup 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

System options include: 


• selecting a language, if you have a version of AirStar M3 that 

supports more than one language 

• selecting an auxiliary device - this feature is used for additional 

external devices, such as laser altimeters 

• setting your magnetic variation from True North (in degrees) 

(if you do not set this value, your heading readings will not 

reflect a magnetic variation) 

• changing the navigation delay between Lightbar guidance and 

when you have to move 

• changing the delay between when you press the spray button 

and when the log reflects the spray on the field. This is a visual 

delay only and can be altered in the MapStar program. Logged 

data remains recorded in real-time. 

• tracking NMEA positioning data for transferring messages to a 

computer or other third-party device. 

FIGURE 4-3. SYSTEM OPTIONS MENU.


Setting 

System 

Options 

To set up system options: 

1. Select AirStar Setup > Sys Options Setup from the main 

menu. 

2. In the Language field, select the desired language. 

Note: This function is only available if your AirStar software 

has an additional language file. Please contact your Satloc 

dealer if you need additional language support. 

3. In the Aux Device field, select Laser or Compass if using either 

of these as an auxiliary device. Otherwise, this field should be 

set to Aux (None). 

4. In the Mag Var. field, enter the magnetic variation of your 

location from True North (< 0 = variation to the East; > 0 = 

variation to the West). A “0” in this field causes bearing and 

heading information to display as True North. 

Note: If you do not input a magnetic variation, your heading 

information will not reflect any magnetic variation. Please 

make sure the magnetic variation you enter is accurate. 

5. In the Delay Comp. field, enter the delay, in seconds, between 

when AirStar shows a guidance cue and when you have to 

move. 

Note: By default, this is set to 0.50 seconds. If you desire a 

longer reaction time, try changing the setting in increments 

of tenths of a second (up to 1.2 seconds). 

6. In the Spray Comp. field, enter the delay between when you 

press the Spray On button and when the spray is recorded in 

the log. 

Note: By default, this is set to 0.20 seconds, based on the 

estimated time for the spray to move through the spray 

system and release from the booms. This is for visual 

purposes only and can be altered in MapStar. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

7. In the POS (Position) 


Report field, press to 

open the POS Report 

Setup screen. This is 

used to track multiple 

aircraft. By setting each aircraft at 60-second interval offsets, 

you will stagger incoming messages from each aircraft. 

a. In the POS Report Enabled field, select Yes or No to 

enable/disable POS reporting. 

b. In the Message Port field, select which port the position 

report packets will be output on: COM4 or FLOW. For 

example, if a flow controller is connected to the FLOW 

port, you would select COM4. 

c. In the Interval field, enter the time between report data 

points (0 - 999 seconds). 

d. In the Offset field, enter the time between reports (0-999 

seconds). For example, if you have more than one aircraft 

reporting at the same time, you would want to set an 

offset. 

8. In the NMEA Setup field, press to open the NMEA report 

Setup screen. This allows you to output NMEA messages to a 

computer or third-party device. 

a. In the NMEA Baud field, select the baud rate.


Screen Setup 

b. In the rest of the fields, select Yes or No to receive the 

appropriate NMEA data strings. See the following table 

for NMEA definitions: 

NMEA String Definition 

GPGGA GPS position, time, and fix-related data 

GPGLL Geographic position, longitude and latitude 

GPGSA Satellites used, operating mode, and DOP values 

GPGSV Satellites in view and status of each 

GPVTG Course of over-ground and ground speed, 

horizontal course, and horizontal velocity 

GPZDA Time and date 

GPRMC Recommended minimum specific GNSS data 

Note: Refer to your receiver user guide for more 

information or visit www.nmea.org for complete 

definitions. 

Setup options for the display screen include general display screen 

options, such as the color of the screen, scale, and the data you 

see in the Custom Settings window. 

The display screen setup options include: 

• setting the Custom Settings Window options 

• setting the background color of the screen (color, 

monochrome, or inverse 

• setting the screen scale and pan/zoom options 


Setting the 

Screen 

Options 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


• selecting the screen symbol (aircraft, helicopter, or tractor) 

Warning! Selecting Reset to Defaults from the main 

menu WILL NOT reset the display screen options to 

factory settings. 

To set the screen options: 

1. Select AirStar Setup > Screen Setup. 

2. In the Lft disp and Rgt disp fields, select from the Lightbar 

display options (see “Lightbar and Display Options.” on 

page 121). 

3. In the Swathing Screen field, select COL(or), INV(erse), 

(MON)ochrome, or NO. 

Warning! If you select NO, your Map Window, Swathing 

Window, and Custom Settings Window will be blank! The 

only window you will see is the Message Window. 

4. In the Pattern Zoom field, select Yes or No. Yes activates 

automatic zooming in the Map Window whenever a new 

pattern is activated; No turns off this feature. 

Note: The zoom settings in this screen control both the 

automatic and manual zoom options in the Map Window 

when you select + . (See Figure 4-4.)


5. In the Autozoom Level field, enter a percentage. The Auto 

Zoom percentage is the percentage of change in image size 

when Yes is selected in the Pattern Zoom field. 

6. In the Manual Zoom field, enter a percentage. The Manual 

Zoom percentage is the percentage each zoom in/out moves 

the display if using the arrow keys to manually zoom. 

7. In the Pan Distance field, enter a percentage. When panning, 

the screen will move over the percentage entered here in the 

direction you select. See “Chapter 2: Getting Started, Display 

Screen Data” for more information on using the keypad to 

pan. 

8. In the Symbol field, select Aircraft, Helicopter, or Tractor to 

change the icon in the Map Window as desired. 

9. In the Background Shading field, select Yes or No. If you select 

Yes, when polygons are selected the background will be 

shaded and the polygons will be illuminated. 

FIGURE 4-4. ZOOM CONTROL SETTINGS. 


Flow Control Setup 

Turning 

On/Off 

Flow 

Control 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


To set up flow control, you will need to turn flow control ON in 

the AirStar menus and calibrate your flow meter and valve. 

The Flow Mode screen that appears when you select Flow Control 

from the main menu shows some of the same options accessed in 

the Job Data menu. See “Chapter 3: Using AirStar” for a 

description of these fields. 

To turn the Flow Control fields on/off: 

1. Select Flow Control from the main menu. 

2. In the Flow Mode field, select: 

• Flow Cont(rol) to activate the Flow Control settings. 

See “Chapter 3: Using AirStar, Setting Flow Control 

Options” for a description of the settings. 

• Flow Off if you do not have the flow module installed. 

• Mon(itor) Only if you are just monitoring the flow 

control system. In this mode, you are controlling the flow 

manually. For example, you will select this mode to 

calibrate your flow meter.


Calibrating 

Your Flow 

Meter 

Satloc recommends calibrating your flow meter to ensure accurate 

reporting. The meter calibration number represents the number 

of pulses per unit volume. 

To calibrate your flow meter: 

1. Fill the hopper in your aircraft. Write down your actual tank 

volume. For example, 400 gallons. It is important that this 

number be accurate for proper calibration. 

2. Find the meter calibration number, located on a tag on your 

flow meter. Write down your meter calibration number. For 

example, 164. 

3. In AirStar, select Flow Control from the main menu. 

4. In the Meter Cal field, enter the meter calibration number 

from Step 2, above. 

5. In the Flow Mode field, select Flow Mon. 

6. In the Tank Vol field, enter a higher volume than you actually 

filled the hopper with in Step 1. For example, in Step 1, we 

filled our hopper with 400 gallons. So, we might enter “600” 

here. Write down the volume entered in the Tank Vol field. For 

example, 600 gallons. 

7. Fly a spray job or run the fluid through the system on the 

ground. Make sure you empty the hopper (use all spray). 

8. Note your ending hopper volume (from the Satloc system). 

Write down the ending hopper volume. For example, 100 gallons. 

9. Use the following formula and example to enter the resulting 

meter calibration number in the Meter Cal field. 


Calibrating 

Your Flow 

Valve 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


REVISED METER CALIBRATION FORMULA = 

Perceived Volume [Perceived start volume (Step 6) - Perceived end volume (Step 8)] 

x Meter Cal (Step 4) 

Actual Start Tank Volume (Step 1) 

SAMPLE REVISED METER CALIBRATION FIELD ENTRY 

(USING SAMPLE DATA FROM STEPS 1 - 9) 

Perceived Start Volume (Tank 

Volume Entered in Tank Vol field) 

Actual Start Tank Vol 

Perceived End Tank Vol 

Meter Calibration No. 

= 600 

= 400 

= 100 

= 164 

(600 - 100) x 164 

400 

= 205 

The valve calibration number controls the valve’s speed and 

approach rate. 

Satloc recommends the following valve calibration settings (Valve 

Cal field in the Flow Control menu) if using the Satloc enhanced 

Flow Controller. 

RECOMMENDED VALVE CALIBRATION SETTINGS. 

Condition Flow Rate Valve Cal Code 

High Flow Rates 5 - 10 Gallons/Acre 0013 

Low Flow Rates Below 5 Gallons/Acre 0213 

Note: Your actual valve calibration setting may differ. Please see 

“Chapter 5: Troubleshooting” for help with fine-tuning this 

setting.


AirStar Software Setup 

Running 

AirStar M3 

Software 

from the 

Hard Drive 

By default, your AirStar M3 software is set up to run from the 

PCMCIA card and to save data to the PCMCIA card. 

However, you can change the default setup to run AirStar M3 

software from the hard drive and log to the hard drive if desired. 

To run AirStar M3 software from the hard drive: 

1. From the Windows 98 start-up menu, in the Enter a Choice 

field, enter “3.” (Option “1” is the default - run AirStar M3 

from the PCMCIA card.) 

2. A Windows 98 screen will open. 

3. Select Start > Run to open the Run window. 

4. In the Run window, type “sysedit.” 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

5. A series of windows will open: 


The last window to open is C:\AUTOEXEC.BAT. 

6. Find :RUNSATLOC in the code (scroll down the window 

or search). The line below :RUNSATLOC tells your system 

to run the AirStar software from either the PCMCIA card or 

the hard drive. By default, this line will show D: (the D: drive 

is your PCMCIA card; the C: drive is your hard drive).


7. Replace D: with c:\satloc\as_m3. 

AirStar is set up to run 

from the PCMCIA card 

(Drive D:) 

AirStar is set up to run 

from the hard drive (Drive C:) 

Note: To change the setup back to the original default of running 

the AirStar software from the PCMCIA card, simply perform 

Step 7 in reverse (replace c:\satloc\as_m3 with D:). 

8. Close the open window. A prompt will ask you if you wish to 

save your changes - select YES to save your changes. 


Logging to 

the Hard 

Drive 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

To log to the hard drive: 


1. From the Windows 98 screen (see “Running AirStar M3 

Software from the Hard Drive”) select Start > Run to open 

the Run window. 

2. In the Run window, type “edit c:\satloc\as_m3\system.ini.” 

3. The System.Ini window will open. Search for [Logging] by 

using the search function or scrolling down the page. 

4. Under [Logging], find the two lines beginning with 

LOG_PATH and LOG_COPY_PATH. 

5. Reverse the text after the equal sign on these two lines. See 

the following figure.


OPTIMIZING GPS: ADVANCED GPS FUNCTIONS 


In Chapter 2, we showed you how to set up the basic GPS functions you need to get up 

and running with AirStar M3 - setting your local time offset, and selecting which 

hemisphere you are in. 

In this section, we’ve provided an overview of advanced GPS features and functions in 

AirStar M3. 

Advanced GPS functions allow you to alter your GPS and DGPS 

settings. Doing so may help you improve or stabilize your DGPS 

system’s positioning and guidance. For example, depending on 

your location, you may be getting jumps in your position if you 

have a satellite that is low on the horizon and is popping in and out 

of your usable range of satellites. In this case, you may want to 

adjust your mask angle - the minimum angle in degrees off the 

horizon a satellite must be to be used by the receiver. Or, perhaps 

you wish to change the time delay for age of differential 

correctors. In this case you may want to adjust your DGPS alarm 

setting. This section will tell you how to do this and more, 

including how to: 

• view current DGPS status to determine whether or not 

you need to adjust your settings 

• view your receiver’s DGPS settings 

• change a subscription code, if using a DGPS service that 

requires a subscription, such as OmniSTAR 

• switch a receiver 

• set the mask angle 

• lock in a frequency - note that this is NOT recommended 

• select a mode to work in (desktop or Normal) 


Viewing Current DGPS Status 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


The GPS screen in the AirStar display screen’s Message Window 

provides valuable information regarding the accuracy of your GPS 

and DGPS reception. The figure below shows the desired target 

rates for accurate GPS data. 

Checking Your Receiver’s DGPS Settings 

The AirStar M3 comes pre-set with appropriate DGPS settings for 

your SLXg3 receiver. You should not need to change these 

settings, unless troubleshooting your system.


Checking 

Your 

Receiver’s 

DGPS 

Settings 

SLX 

Receiver 

300 KHz 

To view or change your DGPS settings in AirStar: 

Select AirStar Setup > DGPS Setup from the main menu. You 

will see the following status screens: 

Note: The ILBand and SL1500 screens are not used with the 



Changing a DGPS Subscription Code 

Checking 

Your 

Subscription 

Status 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


If you have a subscription for a DGPS service, such as OmniSTAR, 

you may need to check or change your subscription code if your 

current one expires. 

To check your current subscription status: 

1. Press + . 

2. Press four times. 

3. Press . 

4. The subscription status will appear as follows. 

Note: If a non-subscription signal is used, this screen will tell you 

that this is a non-subscription DGPS receiver.


Changing 

the 

Subscription 

Code 

Switching 

Receiver 

Applications 

To change a subscription code: 

1. Select Diagnostics > Subscription Code from the main 

menu. You will see the following screen: 

2. Enter your new subscription code (available through Satloc 

dealers). 

Note: If you get the following errors: 

- no response sending subscription code, or 

- invalid subscription code 

Please contact your Satloc dealer. 

Switching Receiver Applications 

Most new receivers come with at least two receiver applications. 

You may wish to switch receiver applications if you lose satellite 

reception. 

Note: This feature is only available if the receiver you own 

supports it. The SLXg3 and SLXg3 Combo models do. 

To switch receiver applications: 

1. Select AirStar Setup > GPS & Time 

Setup > GPS Configuration from 

the main menu. You will see the 

following screen. 


Setting the Mask Angle 

Setting the 

GPS Mask 

Angle 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


2. Press to switch receiver 

applications. You will see the following 

screen. 

3. Turn AirStar off, then on for the 

receiver change to take effect. 

Depending on your location, you may be getting jumps in your 

position if you have a satellite that is low on the horizon and is 

popping in and out of your usable range of satellites. In this case, 

you may want to adjust your mask angle - the minimum angle in 

degrees off the horizon a satellite must be to be used by the 

receiver in calculating the GPS solution. 

For example, if the mask angle is set at 10 degrees above the 

horizon, the receiver will not use any satellites that are below 10 

degrees from the horizon. 

To set the GPS mask angle: 


menu. 

2. In the SV Mask Angle field, notice the 

current mask angle. 

3. Use your keypad to change the mask 

angle. To exclude satellites that are 

popping in and out, increase the angle. 

To include more satellites, decrease the angle. For example, 

you might try increasing the mask angle to “15.” 

Tip! Watch DOP and number of satellites for stabilization after changing 

the mask angle.


Setting the L-Band Frequency 

Setting the 

L-Band 

Frequency 

Use the following table as a guide to setting the L-Band frequency. 

To set the L-Band frequency: 

1. Select AirStar Setup > DGPS Setup from the main menu. 

2. In the LBand field, you will see the current L-Band frequency. 

3. Enter an L-Band frequency (in MHz). Use the following table 

as a guide. 

Receiver Country Frequency (MHz) 

SLXg USA, Canada *0 

SLXg3 USA, Canada *0 

SL1500 USA, Canada *0 

OmniSTAR All Varies depending on 

country used in. 

300 KHz All 

See http:// 

www.omnistar.com/ 

setup_orsc.html for the 

frequency for your location. 

Varies. See http:// 

www.navcen.uscg.gov/dgps/ 

coverage/Default.htm or 

http://www.navcen.uscg. 

gov/dgps/ 

DgpsCompleteConfiguratio 

n.htm for frequency 

information. 

*Note: “0” puts the receiver in Search mode. 


Setting the DGPS Alarm 

Setting the 

DGPS 

Alarm 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


The DGPS Alarm appears on-screen when the age of the last 

differential correction meets the number set in the DGPS Alarm 

field. 

To set the DGPS Alarm: 

1. Select AirStar Setup > DGPS Setup from the main menu. 

2. In the DGPS Alarm field, notice that the 

current setting is shown (by default this 

is set to 60 seconds). 

3. Enter a new time delay - 2700 seconds 

(This equals 45 minutes - the DGPS 

alarm can be set to 45 minutes because Satloc’s patented 

COAST technology minimizes position drift upon loss of 

DGPS for approximately1 meter for up to 45 minutes). 

Selecting a Mode to Work In (Desktop or Normal) 

This should always be left in Normal mode. Desktop mode is used 

for testing/troubleshooting purposes only.


SMARTER NAVIGATION: PLANNING YOUR SPRAY JOBS 


In Chapter 3, we showed you how to navigate with AirStar M3 using the common 

patterns. In this section, we’ve provided an overview of advanced navigation features in 


AirStar M3’s advanced navigation features allow you to pre-plan a spray job and further 

customize your navigation by programming the shape of your field, the pattern you intend 

to fly, and the route to get there. 

Pre-planning spray jobs allows you to manage multiple jobs and 

multiple pilots easily. AirStar M3 allows you to plan and program 

an entire spray job from start to finish. 

For example, you can pre-program the route to a particular spray 

job by plugging in the waypoint coordinates beforehand. You can 

do this by either flying the route beforehand and marking the 

coordinates as you fly or by entering the actual waypoint 

coordinates if you know them. The Lightbar will then provide the 

pilot with guidance to the field. 

You can also pre-program a field, or series of fields, to spray (or 

other area to spray, such as a forest plot) by setting the polygon 

points of each field and saving all polygons associated with a single 

job as a “plot.” 

To set the polygon points, you can either fly the route beforehand 

and mark each polygon point, or corner point, of the field, 

manually enter the polygon points, or import a GIS map of the 

field. Again, the Lightbar will provide precision guidance based on 

the shape of the field and the pattern you select. 

Tip! You can also create a polygon “on-the-fly” to determine the area of a field 

or forest plot. 

Finally, if desired, you can tell AirStar which pattern to fly when 

you recall a saved polygon - although this isn’t really necessary. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


The figure below shows how waypoints, routes, polygons, and 

plots relate to a typical spray job. 

FIGURE 4-5. WAYPOINTS, ROUTES, POLYGONS, AND PLOTS.


In this chapter, we’ll show you how to: 

• set a waypoint. 

• define a route by programming a series of waypoints. You 

can even set up automatic guidance to each subsequent 

waypoint in a route by setting the Radius value under the 

Navigation menu. 

• define the edges of your field by setting a polygon point at 

each corner of the field (in AirStar a field’s shape is referred to 

as a polygon because a field may have several corner points 

depending on its shape and size), manually entering the 

polygon point coordinates, or optionally, importing a GIS 

map of your job using MapStar (or other third-party 

mapping application). 

• define a plot. A “plot” groups all of the polygons you wish to 

associate with a single job in the system’s memory. 

• put it all together by flying a spray job with routes and 

plots. 

• define a remote A|B|C line. 

• tell AirStar to automatically mark your last sprayed 

point (by default, AirStar is set to automatically set a mark at 

your last sprayed point - you do not need to set this up. 

Pressing + recalls the pattern information from the 

last point sprayed in the last active swath). 


Setting Waypoints 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


A waypoint is the GPS coordinate (latitude and longitude) of a 

significant location. Helpful uses for waypoints include: 

• setting a waypoint at the beginning or end of your spray job. 

For example, pressing + is a shortcut to saving your 

current latitude and longitude as your “Home” location. This 

replaces your previous Home location, if any. The Home key 

is simply a shortcut to creating a waypoint for a frequently 

used location, such as a landing strip. 

• setting a waypoint along a route as a marker for you to stop 

or change course. 

AirStar M3 allows you to number and name each waypoint you 

create and associate it with a particular route. You can either set 

your waypoints while flying, or by entering the coordinates into 

AirStar. 

Tasks you may need to perform for waypoints include: 

• setting a waypoint while flying 

• setting a waypoint by manually entering the GPS coordinates 

• recalling a waypoint 

• editing a waypoint 

• clearing active waypoint guidance from your display screen 

• erasing a waypoint


Setting a 

Waypoint 

While 

Flying 

To set a waypoint (while flying): 

1. Double-check to make sure your coordinates are correct. 

2. Press + + *n. 

(*n = 1 - 9) 

Note: The waypoint will be assigned to the current active 

Route number. You can edit this later if necessary. See 

“Editing a Waypoint” on page 160. 

Tip! Press + to save the current latitude and longitude as 

your Home location. This replaces your previous Home 

location if any. The Home key is simply a shortcut to creating a 

waypoint for a frequently used location, such as a landing strip. 

Tip! To check your current route and waypoint information, press 

from the Swathing screen of the Message Window - this will 

bring up your current navigation information. 


Setting a 

Waypoint 

by Entering 

the GPS 

Coordinates 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


To set a waypoint by entering the GPS coordinates: 

1. Select Navigation > Waypoint Entry from the main menu. 

You will see the following screen. 

Tip! When entering multiple waypoints via the Navigation 

menu, the system will bring up the last saved waypoint entry (in 

this example, the last waypoint we entered was Waypoint #6). 

2. Use the arrow keys to enter the following information: 

• Rt - route number (1-50) 

Note: Each Waypoint is associated with a route. If 

programming a single waypoint, use Route 1. If 

programming multiple routes, enter the route number 

to associate with each waypoint you enter. 

• Wpt - waypoint number (1-9) 

• WayP-ID - waypoint name (optional). Press to 

open the Character Entry screen and enter a name (up to 

6 characters are allowed). 

• Lat - latitude 

• Lon - longitude 

3. Press to save your waypoint entry and advance to the 

next entry screen or to return to the main Swathing 

screen. The system will automatically bring up the next 

waypoint entry screen (if you entered Waypoint #7, the next 

entry screen will show Waypoint #8).


Recalling a 

Waypoint 

Editing a 

Waypoint 

4. Enter the rest of your waypoints. 

To recall a waypoint: 

1. Press + + *n. 

(*n =1-9) 

2. AirStar will begin guidance to your saved waypoint. 

Tip! If flying a route (series of waypoints), you can set AirStar to 

automatically provide guidance to the next waypoint along the route once 

you have reached a waypoint. Select Navigation > Radius from the main 

menu. Enter the approach distance at which you want guidance to begin 

(e.g., 0.5 miles). 

To edit a waypoint: 

1. Select + to access the Edit Waypoint screen: 

2. Change the waypoint number on the first line of this screen to 

bring up the associated information. 

3. Change the coordinates or route number as desired. 

Note: You can assign up to 50 route numbers. 


Clearing 

Active 

Waypoint 

Guidance 

Erasing a 

Waypoint 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


To clear active waypoint guidance: 

Press + + . 

Note: This clears your current active waypoint guidance from 

the screen, but keeps the Waypoint # and associated coordinates 

stored in AirStar M3’s memory. 

To erase a waypoint: 

Press + + *n. 

(*n =1- 9) 

Warning! This permanently erases the waypoint from 

memory.


Defining a Route 

Saving a 

Waypoint 

to a Route 

(While 

Flying) 

A route is made up of individual waypoints. You cannot create a 

waypoint without creating a route - even if only setting a single 

waypoint. 

Note - If setting a single waypoint, use Route 1. If defining 

multiple routes, associate each waypoint with the desired route. 

You can set up automatic guidance to each subsequent waypoint in 

a route by setting the Radius value under the Navigation menu. 

Tasks you may need to perform for routes include: 

• saving a waypoint to a route (while flying) 

• saving a waypoint to a route (manually) 

• setting up automatic guidance to subsequent waypoints 

• recalling a route 

To save a waypoint to a route (while flying): 

Press + + *n to save the waypoint. 

(*n = 1-9) 

Note: The waypoint is assigned to the current active route. To 

assign the waypoint to a different route, press + to 

access the Edit Waypoint screen (see page 160). 


Saving a 

Waypoint 

to a Route 

Manually 

Setting Up 

Automatic 

Guidance 

Recalling a 

Route 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


To save a waypoint to a route (manually): 

1. Select Navigation > Waypoint Entry from the main menu. 

2. Enter the route number (1 - 50) to associate with each 

waypoint you enter. See “Setting Waypoints” on page 157 for 

instructions. 

To set up automatic guidance along a route: 

1. Select Navigation > Radius from the main menu. Notice the 

distance setting next to radius (0.0 miles). 

2. Enter the approach distance where you want guidance to 

begin (e.g., 0.5 miles). In this example, you will see guidance 

cues to the next waypoint when you are within 0.5 miles of 

the current waypoint. 

To recall a route: 

Press + + *n + . 

(*n = 1 - 50)


Defining Polygons 

A polygon is the shape of a field (or other area, such as a forest 

plot) that you are spraying. You define the polygon by setting the 

polygon points (corner or point where you change direction). 

Use polygons to: 

• define the shape of your polygon(s), or spray area(s), for 

navigation purposes. You can define the polygon’s shape in 

one of three ways: setting polygon points as you fly, entering 

the polygon’s GPS coordinates beforehand, or importing a 

shape (GIS) file of the polygon. 

• calculate the area of your polygon. You can tell AirStar that 

you wish to include or exclude a polygon. If you include a 

polygon, AirStar will provide guidance inside the polygon and 

calculate the area inside the polygon. If you exclude a polygon, 

AirStar will provide guidance around the outside of the 

polygon and will subtract the area of this polygon from your 

total plot area sprayed. 

Other tasks you may need to perform for polygons include: 

• editing a polygon 

• recalling a polygon 


Defining 

the Shape 

of Your 

Polygon 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


You can define the shape of your polygon in one of three ways: 

• by setting the points of the polygon while flying 

• by entering the GPS coordinates of the polygon manually if 

you know them 

• by importing a shape (GIS) file from MapStar (or other thirdparty 

mapping software) 

Setting the Polygon Points While Flying 

To set the points of the polygon while flying: 

1. Fly to the first corner of your field (polygon). From the main 

Swathing screen, press . This sets the first polygon point 

of your polygon. 

2. Press once at each corner of the polygon. Once you have 

set the third point, the AirStar display screen will show the 

polygon area. (See Figure 4-6.) 

Note: You can define up to 250 points within a single 

polygon. HOWEVER, a plot (the sum of all polygons for a 

job) is limited to a maximum of 500 points - so be 

discriminate when setting your polygon points! 

3. Save your polygon. Press + + *n + . 

(*n =1-100) 

Note: You can define up to 100 polygons in a single plot 

(spray job)!


Note: Don’t worry about telling AirStar the polygon type 

while flying. It will assign each polygon type “Normal” as a 

default. You can edit this (as well as polygon coordinates) 

later. See “Editing a Polygon” on page 169. 

Tip! Make a mistake? Press + + to erase the last 

entered polygon point (or, if you need to erase a different polygon point, 

you may enter the polygon point number instead of set and then press 

). 

FIGURE 4-6. CREATING THE POLYGON. 

Warning! You must save a polygon to a plot or it will remain in 

AirStar’s temporary memory and may get lost if the system is 

rebooted. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Entering GPS Coordinates Manually 

To enter the GPS coordinates of the polygon manually: 

1. Select Navigation > Polygon Entry from the main menu. 

2. Use the keypad to enter the following information: 

• Plot - plot number (1 - 500) 

• Poly - polygon number (1- 100) 

• Type: normal, open, or exclude. This tells AirStar to 

include or exclude a polygon in the area calculation and 

shows the distance to the edge of the polygon. 

• normal - this includes the area of the polygon in the 

total plot area calculation and shows distance to the 

edge of the polygon. 

• open - this is an open-ended polygon. It is used as a 

drawing tool to show objects such as roads. 

• exclude - this excludes the area of the polygon from 

the total plot area calculation and shows distance to 

the edge of the polygon. 

• Lat - latitude 

• Lon - longitude 

Note: Enter the Type, Lat, and Lon for each point of the 

polygon.


Importing Coordinates from a GIS File 

To import a shape (GIS) file: 

1. Remove the PCMCIA memory card from AirStar. 

2. Insert the PCMCIA card into the personal computer that the 

shape or GIS file resides in. 

3. *Save the shape (GIS) file to the PCMCIA card. 

In MapStar: 

a. Open MapStar 

b. Press the “GIS” button. 

c. Open the shape file. 

d. Select File > Save As from the menu bar and save the file to 

the card. 

*Note: Make sure you save the shape file with a “n.job” 

extension (where n = Plot #). If using Satloc’s MapStar 

software, the file is automatically saved with the.job 

extension. 

4. Remove the PCMCIA card from the personal computer. 

5. Insert the PCMCIA card back into AirStar. 

6. Your job file is now ready to open in AirStar! 

Tip! If using MapStar, you can edit the GIS shape file to reduce the 

number of polygon points in a polygon (remember, a polygon can only 

have up to 250 points), or to break a shape file into separate jobs. For 

example if contracting multiple pilots, you may want to break a region 

into quadrants. See your MapStar manual for help with editing shape 

files in MapStar. 

7. Open the job file. Press + + n (job file number) + 

to open the plot containing the shape file. 


Editing a 

Polygon 

Recalling a 

Polygon 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


You can edit a saved polygon at any time. 

To edit a polygon: 

1. Select Navigation > Polygon Entry from the main menu, 

or use the shortcut key (see margin). You will see the Edit 

Polygon screen: 

2. Select Edit Stored Polygon to edit the plot the polygon is 

associated with and the individual polygon coordinates. 

Note: This allows you to edit polygons in the current plot. 

You must first recall a plot to edit polygons. See “Recalling a 

Plot” on page 173. The plot is the file (*.Job) that contains 

the polygons. 

You cannot recall a polygon by itself. You must recall the plot the 

polygon belongs to - this will open all polygons in the plot and 

display them in the Map Window. 

It is important to understand that a AirStar will not provide 

guidance to a particular polygon. If you wish to receive guidance to 

a polygon, you need to set a waypoint at the beginning of that 

polygon. 

A polygon visually shows you the borders of your spray area on 

your display screen in the Map Window. You can use your 

(distance/time to) Edge field to warn you when you are 

approaching/leaving a polygon for the purposes of knowing when


Calculating 

the Area of 

Your 

Polygon 

to turn your spray ON/OFF. See Figure 4-8. Using Edge Distance 

to Control Spray in a Polygon. on page 177 to see an example of 

this. 

To recall a polygon: 

1. Press + + n + (n = plot #) to recall the plot the 

polygon belongs to - you cannot open a polygon by itself. 

2. Recalling a plot opens all polygons stored in that plot. 

As noted in the beginning of this section, you can use AirStar to 

calculate your total spray area. You can calculate the area of a 

single polygon, or of all the polygons in a plot. 

If you saved a polygon as type normal, AirStar will calculate the 

area of your polygon and add the area of this polygon to any other 

polygons in the plot. 

If you saved a polygon as type exclude, AirStar will calculate the 

area of your polygon and subtract the area of this polygon from 

your total plot area. 

To calculate area: 

1. Set your polygon points. See “Defining the Shape of Your 

Polygon” on page 165 for instructions. 

2. Look at your AirStar display screen. You will see the Area field 

updated in the Data Window. See Figure 4-7. Calculating Area. 


Defining a Plot 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


FIGURE 4-7. CALCULATING AREA. 

A plot is to a polygon what a route is to a waypoint. In other 

words, a plot is made up of individual polygons. You cannot create 

a polygon without also creating a plot - even if you are only 

creating one polygon. 

Anytime you create a polygon, you must save it to a plot. 

This saves it to AirStar’s permanent memory (unsaved polygons 

are saved to “Plot 0,” which serves as a temporary memory space). 

Warning! You will lose any information you do not save to Plot 

1-500 when you shut down AirStar. 

AirStar will hold up to 500 plots. Each plot can hold up to 100 

polygons; however, the total number of polygon points a single 

plot can have is 500. So, keep this in mind when creating plots and 

polygons!


Saving a 

Polygon to 

a Plot 

(While 

Flying) 

Saving a 

Polygon to 

a Plot 

(Manually) 

Each polygon you enter during a job is associated with a plot. You 

can associate a polygon with a plot while flying with a shortcut 

key, or you can enter all the polygons of a plot through the 

Navigation menu. 

Other tasks you may need to perform for plots include: 

• recalling a plot 

• viewing plot data 

• clearing plot data types 

• clearing active plot guidance from your display screen 

• erasing an entire plot 

To save a polygon to a plot (while flying): 

1. Press + + *n + . 

(* n= 1 - 500) 

2. All polygons and patterns in the working memory (“Plot 0”) 

will be saved to AirStar’s memory as Plot n. 

To save a polygon to a plot by manually entering the 

polygon points: 

1. Select Navigation > Polygon Entry from the main menu. 

2. Enter the Plot # to associate with each polygon you enter. 


Recalling a 

Plot 

Viewing 

Plot Data 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

To recall a plot: 

Press + + *n + . 

(* n = the plot number) 


Note: Recalling a plot will recall all of the polygons in the plot. 

To view stored plots and data associated with the plots: 

Press + . You will see the following screen: 

Note: PO = Polygon, PA = Pattern, MA = Mark. This screen is 

informational only - use your arrow keys to scroll up and down 

the list.


Clearing 

Plot Data 

Clearing 

Active Plot 

Guidance 

To clear plot data: 

1. Select Navigation > Clear Data from the main menu. You 

will see the following options: 

• Clear Mark/Returns 

• Clear Waypoints 

• Clear Plots 

• Clear Logs 

2. Select the data type you wish to clear. 

Warning! Selecting any of these options will clear ALL of 

the selected data type associated with the current plot 

To clear active plot guidance: 

Select + + . 

Note: This clears your current active plot guidance from the 

screen, but keeps the Plot # and associated plot data stored in 

AirStar M3’s memory. 


Erasing an 

Entire Plot 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

To erase an entire plot: 

Select + + *n + . 

(*n = Plot #) 


Warning! This will permanently erase the plot, and all 

associated data - marks, waypoints, plots, and logs from memory.


Putting It All Together: Programming Your Spray Job 

Now that you know how to create waypoints, routes, plots, and 

polygons, let’s put them all together to fly a typical spray job. 

1. Enter any navigation routes and waypoints. For 

example, you may want to define a route from the airport to 

the plot (spray area, such as a field) if you have to navigate 

around a no-fly zone to get there. See “Setting Waypoints” on 

page 157 and “Defining a Route” on page 162. 

2. Define your plots and enter your polygon points for 

each polygon in the plot. See “Defining Polygons” on page 164 

and “Defining a Plot” on page 171. 

3. Review your pre-flight checklist and enter your job 

details. See Chapter 3, “Using the Pre-Flight Checklist” for 

details. 

4. Begin flying. 

5. Recall your route, if applicable, and the starting 

waypoints along the route. Use the shortcut keys, shown 

here in the left margin). 

6. Follow Lightbar guidance along your route. 

7. Recall your plot (Use the shortcut key, shown here in the 

left margin). 

8. Follow Lightbar guidance of your selected pattern to 

spray your plot. Use the Distance/Time to Edge display 

to navigate polygons - see Polygon Navigation Tips, as follows. 


Polygon 

Navigation 

Tips 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


When flying your polygons, the Edge field in the Data Window 

is helpful as it tells you when you are approaching a polygon 

edge. 

In fact, we recommend also setting the right display on your 

Lightbar (or at least the screen display) to Edge Distance or 

Time (see “Setting the Left and Right Lightbar Displays” on 

page 121), instead of the default cross-track distance when 

flying polygons since this will tell you when to turn your spray 

ON/OFF. You will still be able to see your cross-track distance 

with the LEDs on the Lightbar. 

When flying polygons, use the (distance/time to) Edge field as 

follows: 

• when you are approaching a polygon, turn your spray ON 

when your distance to edge reaches “0.” 

• when you are flying out of a polygon, turn your spray OFF 

when your distance to edge again reaches “0.” 

Note: When you are inside of a polygon, your Edge field will 

show negative numbers. 

FIGURE 4-8. USING EDGE DISTANCE TO 

CONTROL SPRAY IN A POLYGON. 

Tip! You can also define a remote A|B|C line if desired, by pre-programming 

the coordinates.


To actually make your pattern part of the polygon, press + + 

. Continue to press to move the pattern to consecutive sides of the 

polygon (switch directions to move to the opposite side). 

Defining a Remote A|B|C Line 

You can manually enter the coordinates of your A, B, and if 

applicable C points before flying your spray job if desired. 

1. Select Job Data > Remote A|B from the main menu. Note 

that the default is set to NO. 

2. In the Use Remote A|B field, enter YES. 

3. Enter the waypoints to be used as Point A (RMA - “Remote 

A,” includes route and waypoint data), point B (RMB), and 

point C (RMC), if applicable. The actual coordinates will be 

entered as waypoints under the corresponding routes. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Automatically Marking Your Last Sprayed Point 

By default, AirStar is designed to automatically mark your last 

sprayed point. The system creates a mark each time you turn off 

your spray. This allows your data to be saved if the hard drive 

locks up or you forget to save your work. 

The Navigation menu, Mark 

Spray Off field is set to “Yes” to 

tell AirStar to automatically save 

a mark at your last sprayed point. 

To return to your last sprayed 

mark, press + . This will recall the pattern information 

from the last point sprayed in the last active swath. 

Note: Mark Spray Off should always be set to YES! 

Warning! When spray is turned off again, this information will 

be overwritten with the next “last sprayed” mark.

Chapter 

5 

TROUBLESHOOTING 

FAQs 

Common Errors


FAQS 


In this section, we’ve provided some frequently asked questions other customers have 

had. 

Q: How can I change the zoom level on my display screen? 

A: Press + from the Message Window to access the Pan/ 

Zoom controls. Follow the on-screen instructions. See “Chapter 

2: Getting Started” for more information. 

Q: Why does my Lightbar blink sometimes when I am 

spraying? 

A: A flashing Lightbar when spray is on indicates a double-spray 

warning. You are spraying a previously sprayed swath. Turn spray 

off, follow guidance to the next swath, and turn spray back on with 

the next swath. This setting can be deactivated, if desired (select 

AirStar Setup > Lightbar Setup, Double Spray Warn field). 

Q: I just installed AirStar M3 and whenever the screen is 

on, there is interference on the screen. Why? 

A: Make sure there are noise filters either installed or built into 

the VGA cable. There should be one at either end of the VGA 

cable. They are round and about 1-inch long. Call your Satloc 

dealer for support. 

Q: I don’t want a separate log for each job I fly. What do I 

do? 

A: Select AirStar Setup > Data Logging Setup from the main 

menu. In the New Log for Job field, select “No.” (The default is set 

to “Yes.”) 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Troubleshooting | Page 183 

Q: How do I turn logging OFF? 

A: Select AirStar Setup > Data Logging Setup from the main 

menu. In the Log Interval field, select 99.0 seconds. This turns 

logging OFF. (To turn back on, select an appropriate logging 

interval - we recommend 2 seconds.) 

Q: How come I can’t see my spray information when I 

recall my mark? 

Recalling a mark provides guidance to the swath that was active 

when you saved the mark (swath number and location). However, 

it will only show spray data from the point you resume spraying. 

If you wish to view spray data that was created prior to 

establishing the mark, you will need to replay the previous log 

( + ). Please note, however, that this is a “view only” 

mode. New spray data will appear in the new log. 

Q: I entered my longitude in degrees, minutes, and 

seconds. Once I saved the data, the system reverted to a 

different latitude or longitude. What am I doing wrong? 

A: You are probablyentering decimal degrees into the minutes 

field. The system wants degrees, then decimal minutes. See the 

following example for correct waypoint entry: 

• Lat: 33 36.8682 N --> Enter 33 368682. 

• Lon: 76 55.0309 W -->Enter 76 550309. 

Check how the coordinates are being provided. 36.5° = 36° 30.0. 

If a value of over 60 is entered, the system will add a degree and 

subtract 60 from the minutes. 

If converting decimal degrees to decimal minutes, take the decimal 

degrees and multiply by 60 to get decimal minutes.


Q: What factors affect the accuracy of my receiver? 

A: The age of differential correction, the atmospheric conditions, 

and satellite geometry expressed as dilution of precision (DOP). 

Some other factors are the magnitude of multipath present at the 

remote station. 

Q: Should my spray be turned ON or OFF when creating 

the A|B line? 

That depends. You can create your A|B line inside or outside of 

the field to meet your needs. If you create the A|B line outside of 

your field, you will want your spray turned OFF. 

The most common scenario, however, is to create the A|B line 

with the spray turned ON when you fly your first swath. 

Q: My field is not an even length. How will this affect my 

swath guidance? 

Obviously, most fields will not be exactly divisible by your selected 

swath width. Typically, you will have a portion of a swath “left 

over” when flying a closed pattern. In this case, AirStar will provide 

guidance to the next highest swath number. You may want to 

ignore this guidance and make a visual pass to spray the remainder 

of the field. 

Q: I’m using a Crop Hawk flow meter system. Can I use 

Flow Control? 

A: In most cases, the Crop Hawk flow meter is compatible with 

the Satloc controller. Call your dealer for support. 

Q: My valve calibration seems to be off - how do I figure 

out the correct number? 

A: As a general rule, in the Flow Control menu, Valve Cal field, 

you will enter either 0013 (high flow rates, 5-10 G/A) or 0213 (low 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


flow rates, below 5 G/A). However, you may need to alter this 

number. Use the following table as a guide. 

Digit #/Name Definition Range 

1/Valve Backlash Controls the time of the first correction pulse after a 

change in correction direction is detected. 

2/Valve Speed 

Digit 

3/Brake Point 

Digit 

4/Dead-Band 

Digit 

Controls the response time of Control Valve. 

CAUTION: Running the Control Valve too fast will 

cause the system to oscillate. 

Sets the point at which the Control Valve begins 

braking, to avoid over shooting the desired rate. This 

digit represents a percentage away from the target 

rate. 

Allowable difference between target and actual 

application rate, where rate correction is not 

performed. 

0 - 1 

0 = no pulse 

1 = short pulse 

0 - 9 

0 = 5% 

1 = 10% 

9 = 90% 

0 - 9 

0 = fast 

9 = slow 

1 - 9 

1 = 1% 

9 = 9% 

Note: Higher numbers are very stable for small flow corrections, 

but are slow to make large corrections. Lower numbers are less 

stable for flow corrections, but are very quick to make large flow 

corrections. 

Q: Can I receive NMEA string messages? 

A: Yes, you can receive NMEA string messages through the serial 

port of the GPIO cable or a dual port cable from the SLXg3 

receiver. 

Select AirStar Setup > Sys Options Setup > NMEA Setup 

from the main menu to access NMEA setup options. See “Chapter 

4: Customizing AirStar, Advanced Setup Options” for additional 

information.


COMMON ERRORS 


In this section, we’ve provided a basic guide to troubleshooting a few of the more 

common errors. For further assistance, please contact your Satloc dealer. 

Warning! 

Turn power off before connecting or disconnecting 

cables. Failing to do so can damage the system. 


POWER/DISPLAY 

AirStar Shows Symptom Solution 

No lights on display screen 

or Lightbar when system is 

turned on. 

Can’t get past GPS 

Initialization screen during 

boot up: 

“Floppy Not Found” 

or 

“Input Not Supported” 

error message in the 

Windows start up screen. 

Bad command or field name 

d:\> 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

System does not 

turn on 

System turns on, 

but fails to 

initialize GPS 


but fails to boot 

up 


but fails to boot 

up from PCMCIA 

card. 


1. Check to make sure your power source 

is between 10 - 36 Volts. 

2. Find power pins on power cable and 

check for voltage. 

3. Check the screen power button and 

Lightbar rheostat. 

If this does not work, contact your Satloc 

dealer. 

The “GPS Initialization” message means 

that the CPU is trying to find the receiver 

and can’t communicate with it. 

1. Check the AirStar M3 receiver 

connection. 

2. Check the power to the receiver 

(should see at least one light on). 

The battery on the CPU has gone out. 

Contact your Satloc dealer for service. 

1. Reboot AirStar. 

2. At the Windows start up menu, select 

Windows. 

• If the CPU initializes, try a different 

PCMCIA card. 

• If the CPU does not initialize, contact 

your Satloc dealer.


POWER/DISPLAY 


Lines across display screen Lines across 

display screen 

GPS/DGPS ERRORS 

The 2-way radio’s broadcasting frequency 

is interfering with the display. 

1. Change the frequency of the radio. 

2. If this has no effect, verify that the 

ferrite beads on the video cable are 

present. The ferrite bead is about 1inch 

in length and 1/2-inch in diameter 

near each end of the cable. This will 

suppress the noise on the video lines. 


Loss of GPS 1. Reboot system. 

2. Check receiver for Power and 

Status lights. If the lights are 

flashing, you do not have GPS. 

If they are solid, you do. 

3. If the receiver indicates that 

you have GPS, but the 

Lightbar does not, you may 

have a faulty DGPS cable or 

CPU problem. Contact your 




Part Number: 875-0081-001 



Loss of DGPS 1. Check the SV number in the 

Message Window’s GPS 

screen. You need at least four 

satellites to get an accurate 

DGPS position. 

2. Check the differential age 

(DF) in the Data Window. If 

DF = 0, you have no 

differential. Select 

Diagnostics > Subscriptn 

Status from the main menu 

to check your subscription 

status. If your subscription is 

expired, contact your Satloc 

dealer for a new one. 

See also, Poor Differential 

Age in Troubleshooting table. 

3. Check your Bit Error Rate 

(BER). 

Select the diagnostic screens 

which will appear in the 

Message Window by pressing 

+ . Press four 

times to access the correct 

diagnostic screen (shown on 

the left). 

- Frequency Lock indicates 

that DGPS is OK. 

- The BER scale is from 0 - 

500, with 0 meaning the best 

quality. A rating of 500 can 

mean no antenna detected, 

lack of communication, or a 

problem with the receiver.




4. Check the status lights on the 

receiver - all 4 lights should 

be on. 

5. To restore DGPS, try 

rebooting the system. Wait 

up to 5 minutes for the 

system to recalculate a 

solution. Check BER. 

Poor DOP A DOP of < 2.0 is good. A DOP 

between 2.1 and 5.0 is 

acceptable. A DOP > 5.0 can 

cause erroneous positioning. 

1. Check status lights on 

receiver. 

2. Wait up to 5 minutes for a 

better solution. 

3. Change the mask angle 

(AirStar Setup > GPS & 

Time Setup, SV Mask Angle) 




Erratic cross-track on top row of 

lights 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Poor differential age 

(DF) 

Jumps in GPS position 

and usable satellites 

(SV # on GPS screen) 

is popping in and out. 

Intermittent GPS/ 

DGPS reception 


Typically the differential age is 2 - 

8 seconds for good DGPS data 

(may show up to 99s if using e- 

Dif. Range of 2 - 2700s is 

acceptable if using Satloc’s 

COAST technology). 

• If the differential age is “0,” 

you do not have differential. 

Select Diagnostics > 

Subscriptn Status from 

the main menu. The screen 

will show the subscription 

number, expiration date, 

and system status. Contact 

your Satloc dealer for a 

new subscription. 

• If you have poor differential, 

turn the system off and 

reboot. Wait up to 5 

minutes for the system to 

recalculate a solution. 

You may have a satellite that is 

low on the horizon. You’ll need 

to adjust your mask angle. 

•Select AirStar Setup > 

GPS & Time Setup from 

the main menu. 

•In the SV Mask Angle field, 

increase the angle to 

exclude satellites low on 

the horizon; decrease the 

angle to include them. 

1. Disconnect the antenna cable 

connections at both ends and 

clean both ends. 

2. Dry completely (if wet) and 

reconnect.


SPRAY/FLOW CONTROL ERRORS 

AirStar M3 Shows Symptom Solution 

No Communication with 

Flow Control (if installed) 

No Flow. 

The spray switch is on, but 

there is no flow being read 

through the meter. 

Metered Flow. 

Spray switch is off, but 

significant flow is metered. 

1. Select Flow Control from 

the main menu. Make sure the 

Flow Mode field is set to Flow 

Control or Flow Monitor and 

check your Flow settings. 

2. Check the connection 

between the GPIO cable and 

flow control harness. 

3. Check the connection 

between the flow cable and 

CPU. 

The spray switch is on, but there 

is no flow being read through the 

meter. 

1. Check the condition of the 

spray handle switch to be sure 

that it is not being triggered at 

the incorrect time and that it is 

installed correctly. 

2. Check that the meter is 

properly connected and not 

blocked. 

3. Check that flow is actually 

passing through the Flow system. 

1. Check the spray switch to be 

sure that it is not being triggered 

at the incorrect time and that it 

is correctly installed. 

2. Disconnect the spray cable 

wires from the spray system and 

touch the two wires together. If 

the spray works, you have a 

faulty switch. Contact your 



SPRAY/FLOW CONTROL ERRORS 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 



High Flow Rate Try recalibrating your flow valve 

- see “Calibrating Your Flow 

Valve” on page 141. If that 

doesn’t work, follow the steps 

for “No Flow,” above. 

Message Window shows 

“*S” in a non-spray 

condition 

or “--” in a spray condition 

Low Flow Rate Try recalibrating your flow valve 

- see “Calibrating Your Flow 

Valve” on page 141. If that 

doesn’t work, follow the steps 

for “No Flow,” above. 

Display shows spray on, but 

spray switch is off, or vice 

versa. 

The spray switch may be 

installed backwards. 

1. Verify that spray switch closes 

loop on the spray ON/OFF 

line when the money handle is 

open, and that the loop is 

open when the money handle 

is closed. 

2. Verify mounting of micro 

switch in reference to how 

money handle opens and 

closes. 

3. If spray on/off lines are 

connected to a pressure 

switch, make sure that when 

the switch is activated, it 

closes the loop on the spray 

on/off line and when it is not 

activated, the line is open. 

Note: This could also be an 

equipment problem. For example, if 

the switch is not making a 

connection on the microswitch or 

pressure switch.


LOGGING 


COUNTER ERRORS: SWATH NUMBERS & ACREAGE 

Log data is not saved 1. Select AirStar Setup > 

Data Logging Setup. 


No swath advance when 

press remote swath 

advance button 

Incorrect Swath # on 

display screen and Lightbar 

Remote swath advance not 

working 

Swath advance doubles or 

skips numbers 

2. Check the Logging speed 

(should be set to 40+ m.p.h.) 

and Logging Interval (suggested 

interval is *2 seconds) fields. 

*99.0 seconds means logging is 

turned OFF. 

1. Disconnect the Swath 

Advance wires (part of GPIO 

cable) from the switch on the 

stick ). 

2. Touch the two connections 

together. 

3. Your Lightbar and display 

screen should advance the 

Swath #. If this corrects the 

problem, the switch is not 

connecting properly. 

Follow the troubleshooting 

procedure for “No swath 

advance when press remote 

swath advance button,” 

previously explained. 




Incorrect Swath # on 

display screen and Lightbar 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Swath advances when use 

other equipment, such as a 

radio. 


CEMF (Counter Electromagnetic 

Force) occurs when relays or 

solenoids connected to a 

common vehicle DC power bus 

are de-energized. The resulting 

voltage produced may exceed 

400 Volts and can cause 

interference between systems. 

To check for CEMF: 

Check to make sure diodes are 

installed at the relays and 

solenoids at the power supply 

cable connection. If they are not 

installed, contact your Satloc 

dealer to get the correct parts. 

No acre count 1. Check spray status on 

Message Window with spray 

off - should read “--” or “-c.” 

2. Check your spray switch. 

Remove the spray cable 

connections from your spray 

switch. Touch the two 

connections together and 

check for “*S” or “*C” in the 

Message Window (Acres will 

accumulate only when switch 

contact is made and “*S” or 

“*C” is visible in the Message 

Window) to be sure that the 

spray cable is working 

properly. 

3. If *S or *C, then check for 

faulty or incorrect switch. If 

“--” or “-c”, then check cable 

connection to M3.




Acres will not reset to “0” 

when starting a new job: 

1. Select Job Data > Spray 

Area from the main menu. 

2. Verify the Reset Area field is 

set to “New_Pat.” (Make sure 

this field is not set to 

“New_Log.” ) 


Appendixes 

A-C 

APPENDIXES 

Appendix A: Glossary 

Appendix B: Technical Specifications 

Appendix C: System Menus


APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY 


In this section, we’ve provided a glossary of commonly used GPS and AirStar M3 terms. 

Altitude WGS-84 ellipsoid altitude. See WGS-84. 

Baud A unit for measuring data transmission speed, equal to one unit 

element per second. 

Beacon Navigation authorities around the world have installed DGPS radio 

beacon networks that broadcast free GPS correction information. 

Bearing Bearing is your direction in degrees in relation to another point 

(e.g., a waypoint). 

BER BER (Bit Error Rate) represents the quality of the data from the 

receiver. The BER scale is from 0 - 500, with 0 meaning the best 

quality. A rating of 500 can mean: 

• no antenna 

• lack of communication 

• dead receiver 

COAST Satloc’s patented COAST technology minimizes the amount of 

position drift that occurs when the system is not receiving a 

differential signal - it works with WAAS, OmniSTAR, and Beacon. 

It maintains a reasonable amount of accuracy (usually about 1 

meter) over a period of approximately 45 minutes. 

CPU CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the central processing unit, or 

“brains” of your computer. This is where the software and 

hardware for the AirStar system resides. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Appendixes | Page 199 

DGPS DGPS (Differential GPS) is GPS with an additional correction signal 

added. This signal, called “Differential Correction,” provides 

corrections to compensate for atmospheric interference, timing 

errors, and satellite orbit errors which can affect the accuracy of 

GPS alone. 

DF DF (Differential Age) is the time in seconds since the last DGPS 

update. 

Differential See DGPS. 

DOP DOP (Dilution of Precision) is a numeric value expressing the 

confidence factor of the position solution based on current 

satellite geometry. The lower the DOP value, the greater the 

confidence level. 

e-Dif e-Dif is a patented technology available with Satloc’s SLXg and 

SLXg3 receivers. e-Dif provides positions that are very accurate in 

relation to a temporary reference location. This is done by 

gathering continuous data from satellites for 5 to 8 minutes and 

then computing a matching differential corrector for that specific 

location - a process called calibration. Once e-Dif is running, it is 

continually adjusted to match changing conditions on the GPS 

signals caused by the atmosphere. 

EGNOS EGNOS (European Global Navigation Overlay Service) is a 

differential service similar to WAAS in the United States. EGNOS 

is a joint project of the European Space Agency, European 

Commission, and Eurocontrol. It will allow users in Europe and 

beyond to determine their GPS position to within 5 meters. It is 

currently in a test phase - it is expected to be fully operational in 

2004. 

Frequency The number of complete oscillations per second of energy (as 

sound or electromagnetic radiation) in the form of waves.


GIS GIS (Geographic Information Systems) are systems capable of 

assembling, storing, manipulating, and displaying geographically 

referenced information - in other words, data referenced by their 

GPS locations. 

GPS GPS (Global Positioning System) is a satellite-based navigation 

system developed and operated by the U.S. Department of 

Defense. GPS permits land, sea, and airborne users to determine 

their three-dimensional position, velocity, and time. This service is 

available to military and civilian users around the clock, in all 

weather, anywhere in the world. 

GMT GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) is based on a 24-hour clock at the 

Prime Meridian and uses one time zone. To convert to local time, 

you must know the time difference between GMT and local time 

for both standard time and daylight savings. 

Heading 

Angle 

The heading is the direction off True North, with North at 0/360 

degrees and South at 180 degrees. The heading can be used as a 

reference when making a swath. See also Bearing. 

Hemisphere The northern or southern half of the earth divided by the equator 

or the eastern or western half divided by a meridian. 

Hertz A unit of frequency equal to one cycle per second. 

Latitude Latitude gives the GPS location of a place north or south of the 

equator. A positive value represents North. A negative value 

represents South. 

L-Band The group of radio frequencies extending from 390 MHz to 1550 

MHz. The GPS carrier frequencies L1 (1573.5 MHz) and L2 

(1227.6 MHz) are in the L-band. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


LED LED (Light Emitting Diode) is used as an indicator light on 

electronic equipment. It is commonly red or green in color and 

very energy efficient. 

Longitude The GPS location of a place east or west of a north-south line 

called the prime meridian. A positive value represents East. A 

negative value represents West. 

Mark In AirStar, a mark saves your Swath #, pattern, acreage, direction, 

and spray information, and marks the GPS location where you set 

the mark. 

Mask Angle The minimum angle in degrees off the horizon a satellite must be 

to be used by the receiver. 

NAVSTAR NAVSTAR (Navigation System with Time and Ranging) is the name 

of the group of satellites used in the Global Positioning System 

(GPS). 

NMEA NMEA (National Marine Electronics Association) is an 

internationally recognized standard GPS message output. Various 

message types such as GGA, GSV, ZDA, etc., output position, 

velocity, satellite status, etc. 

OmniSTAR A service that is capable of applying high-quality correction data 

from the OmniSTAR Worldwide DGPS Service. Drawing on 

information from its global network of reference stations, 

OmniSTAR uses Virtual Base Station algorithms to ensure that 

positioning accuracy is independent of distance from a base 

station. 

PCMCIA PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International 

Association) is an organization that has developed a standard for 

small devices called PCMCIA or PC cards. These cards are 

designed for adding memory to portable computers.


Plot A plot is a measured piece of land. In AirStar, you can define a plot 

you wish to spray by defining the GPS coordinates of the polygons 

in the plot. A plot in AirStar may include one or more polygons. 

Polygon A polygon is an enclosed area. In AirStar, you define the GPS 

coordinates of the polygon by setting the polygon points. Polygon 

points are GPS coordinates where you wish to change direction. 

Port Port setup allows you to ensure that your DGPS receiver is 

properly formatted. You can set the baud rate and view NMEA 

and RTCM message types. 

Range Range is the distance to a waypoint or mark. 

Route A course of travel. In AirStar, a route is made up of a collection of 

waypoints, or GPS coordinates. 

RTCM RTCM (Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Special Services 

Committee 104 (SC 104)) is an internationally recognized standard 

DGPS message used to correct raw GPS data. 

Satellites GPS navigation satellites orbit the earth and send continuous radio 

signals to earth. Receivers on earth translate this information to 

determine the satellite’s position and their own position. For 

accurate GPS data, you need be using at least four satellites to 

calculate a solution. 

Spray 

Overlap 

Standard 

Deviation 

Spray overlap is the distance beyond the left or right edge of the 

spray boom that spray is applied. 

The standard deviation represents a statistical deviation of the 

solution accuracy. On Satloc DGPS receivers, the standard 

deviation of positional accuracy is

Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Swath A swath is a row in an area you wish to spray. AirStar M3’s 

guidance system uses your swath width (generally the boom, or 

spray arm, length) to calculate and provide guidance to subsequent 

swaths in a selected pattern. 

SV SV (Satellites in View). The number of satellites “in view,” or used 

to compute your GPS position. For accurate GPS data, you need 

to have at least four satellites in view. 

Track Ground track (heading angle) of aircraft in relation to True North. 

VGA VGA (Video Graphics Array) is a graphics display system for your 

computer’s display screen developed by IBM. 

WAAS WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) is a U.S. government 

GPS-based navigation and landing system that provides precision 

guidance to civilians. WAAS is designed to improve raw GPS data 

accuracy and ensure the integrity of information coming from GPS 

satellites. 

WGS-84 WGS-84 (World Geodetic System 1984) is the ellipsoid (an 

ellipsoid is a three-dimensional ellipse) used as the standard world 

reference for GPS calculations. The WGS-84 ellipsoid is 

considered the best fit for the overall shape and size of the earth. 

This ellipsoid is fixed at a particular orientation and position with 

respect to the earth (thus the term “Geodetic”), which allows it to 

be used as a reference for GPS calculations. 

Waypoint A GPS location - latitude and longitude.


APPENDIX B: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 


In this section, we’ve provided the technical specifications for your AirStar M3 

components. 

Lightbar Dimensions 

Mechanical Specifications 

1.9H x 13.4W x 6.5D inches 

(4.8H x 34W x 16.5D centimeters) 

Lightbar Weight 5.6 pounds (2.54 kilograms) 

Display Screen Dimensions • 6.4-inch screen: 

5.5H x 8W x 3.3D inches 

(14.0H x 20.3W x 8.4D 

centimeters) 

• 8.4-inch screen: 

7.6H x 9.5W x 2.0D inches 

(19.37H x 24.1W x 5.1D 

centimeters) 

Display Screen Weight • 6.4-inch screen: 

3.0 pounds (1.36 kilograms) 

• 8.4-inch screen: 


Display Screen Housing TFT Active Matrix Color 

Sunlight Readable, Low-Glare Screen 

NEMA 4 Sealed Enclosure 

CPU Dimensions 4.2H x 6.5W x 9.4D inches 

(10.71H x 16.5W x 23.9D 

centimeters) 

CPU Weight (including mounting 8.6 pounds (3.90 kilograms) 

kit) 

CPU Housing Tough extruded aluminum 

Keypad Dimensions 4.5H x 6.5W x 1.5D inches 

(11.4H x 16.5W x 3.8D centimeters) 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 


Keypad Weight 

Mechanical Specifications 


Optional Keyboard Dimensions 11H x 6W x 2.5D inches 

(27.9H x 15.2W x 6.4D centimeters) 

Optional Keyboard Weight 1.4 pounds (0.62 kilograms) 

Power Panel/Box Dimensions 2.3H x 6W inches 

(5.7H 15.2W centimeters) 

Power Panel/Box Weight 0.9 pounds (0.40 kilograms) 

Connector Cables (from CPU) • Keypad, 15 feet (4.57 meters) 

• Optional Keyboard, 1 foot 

(30.48 centimeters) 

• Receiver, 6 feet (1.83 meters) 

• GPIO, 15 feet (4.57 meters) 

• Touch Screen, 20 feet (6.10 

meters) 

• Power, 15 feet (4.57 meters) 

• Lightbar, 25 feet (7.62 meters) 

• VRC/COM 1, 10 inches 

(25.4 centimeters) 

• VGA, 15 feet (4.57 meters) 

Cable Weight (Combined 7.0 pounds (3.18 kilograms) 

Weight of All Cables) 

Power 10 - 36 Volts DC, Reverse Polarity, 

and Over-Voltage Protection 

Nominal Power 38W to 55W 

(Depending on Display Size)


Environmental Specifications 

Operating Temperature • CPU System: -22F to +40F 

(-30C to +60C) 

• Display Screen: -4F to +40F 

(-20C to +60C) 

Resistance Dust and Water 

Vibration and Shock 

Humidity • CPU & Display Screen: 

95% Non-Condensing 

• Lightbar & GPS Antenna: 

Fully Waterproof 

CPU Operating Specifications 

Speed Pentium MMX - 233 MHz 

Operating System DOS/Windows 98 

System Memory 64 MB SDRAM or greater 

Storage (Hard Drive) 6.1 GB or greater 

Storage (Removable) Single PCMCIA slot 

SLXg3 Receiver Specifications 

Dimensions 7.5L x 4.9W x 2.0H inches 

(19.1L x 12.5W x 5.1H centimeters) 

Weight 1.60 pounds (0.73 kilograms) 

GPS Channels 12 parallel LI, C/A code with carrier 

phase smoothing 

Update Rate 5 Hz 

Data Output NMEA 0183, Satloc Binary 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Differential Source 

SLXg3 Receiver Specifications 

L-Band, WAAS, e-Dif 

Interface RS-232 

Horizontal Accuracy < 3 feet (


APPENDIX C: SYSTEM MENUS 


In this section, we’ve provided an at-a-glance view of AirStar M3 system menus. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE A-1. MAIN MENU. 

Appendixes | Page 209


FIGURE A-2. JOB DATA MENU. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE A-3. AIRSTAR SETUP MENU. 



FIGURE A-4. NAVIGATION MENU. 


Part Number: 875-0081-001 

FIGURE A-5. FLOW CONTROL MENU. 



FIGURE A-6. DIAGNOSTICS MENU. 


INDEX 

A 

A|B line 23, 84, 97, 184 

area 170 

auxiliary device 134 

B 

Beacon 4, 8 

BER 189 

C 

COAST 198 

COM4 135 

components 4 

CPU 4 

cross-track distance 22 

Custom Settings Window 28, 38 

D 

Data Logging Setup 55, 64 

Data Window 29, 39 

Desktop mode 153 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

Index | Page 215 

DGPS 

about 7 

alarm 153 

checking settings 147 

factors affecting data quality 10 

position accuracy 10 

setting up 146 

subscription code 149 

update frequency 10 

viewing status 147 

diagnostics 191 

differential age 191 

differential. See DGPS. 

Display screen 

boot up 16 

brightness 30 

Custom Settings Window. See 

Custom Settings Window. 

Data Window. See Data Window. 

Map Window. See Map Window. 

Message Window. See Message 

Window. 

nighttime viewing 29 


using 28 

DOP 190, 199


E 

Edge 177 

Edge Warning 118, 131 

e-Dif 4, 9 

EGNOS 8 

Environmental Data 64 

F 

flow control 

calibrating your flow meter 140 

calibrating your flow valve 141, 184 

enabling 54, 139 

non-Satloc flow control system 184 

overview 74 


spray area 75 

spray overlap 75 

spray rate 75 

G 

GIS (shape) files 168 

GMT 57 

GPS 

about 6 

advanced navigation 146 

GPS & Time Setup 58, 150 

H 

heading 22 

hemisphere 54, 58 

Home key 157 

I 

Init Tank Volume 75 

J 

job 

data 62 

details 62 

multiple jobs 70 

name 62 

Job Data menu 62 

K 

keyboard 4 

keypad 4 

shortcuts. See also keypad shortcut. 

49 

using 40 

keypad shortcut 

accessing menus 51 

accessing zoom/pan controls 53 

clearing active guidance from the 

display screen 52 

clearing display screen of everything 


L 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

but spray marks 52 

clearing entire display screen 52 

erasing a data type 52 

recalling a data type 51 

resetting the current pattern 52 

saving a data type 51 

saving menu entries 51 

selecting a direction 51 

setting a mark 66 

starting a new log 52, 67 

toggling through Swathing, 

Navigation, and GPS 

screens 51 

turning off AirStar 53 

viewing a list of logs 52 

viewing logs 69 

language 134 

last sprayed point 179 

L-Band 4, 152 

Lft disp 38 

Lightbar 

advanced setup options 118 

boot up 18 

double-spray warning 123 

guidance 21, 23 

LED settings 123, 124, 125 

left and right display 21 

navigating to a mark or waypoint 25 


self-test 18 


type 120 

using 20 

warnings 24, 112 

local time offset 54, 57 

log speed 64 

logging 

beginning 64 

downloading logs 72 

enabling 54 

ending 64 

log data 60 

logging interval 128 

logging speed 128 


starting a new log 67 

to hard drive 145 

transferring logs 129 

turning off the New Log for Job 

feature 129 

viewing previous logs 69 

M 

magnetic variation (from True North) 

134 

Map Window 28, 32 

MapStar 60, 72 

mark 

navigating to 25


recalling a mark 67 

setting 66 

mask angle 151 

menus 34, 37, 40, 208 

AirStar Setup menu 211 

Diagnostics menu 214 

entering data 46 

Flow Control menu 213 

Job Data menu 210 

main menu 209 

navigating 42 

Navigation menu 212 

saving changes 48 

selecting from options in a field 44 

Message Window 17, 28, 34 

Diagnostic screen 37 

Diagnostic screens 34 

GPS screen 34, 36 

menus 34 

Navigation screen 34, 36 

Swathing screen 34, 35, 126 

N 

navigation 

advanced 154 

Lightbar 24 

making a turn 88 

to a mark or waypoint 25 

Navigation menu 212 

NMEA 133, 135, 185 

noise 182 

non-swath desense 123 

Normal mode 153 

O 

OmniSTAR 4, 9 

P 

panning 32, 137 

patterns 

Back-to-Back (Bk-Bk) 86 

change direction 90 

closed 96, 98 

decrement swaths 92 

Expand (EXPND) 94 

flying a closed pattern 96 

flying an open pattern 78 

open 82 

Quick Racetrack (QKRTK) 102 

Racetrack (RCTRK) 100 

Reverse Racetrack (RVRTK) 104 

Squeeze (SQUEZ) 106 

PCMCIA 15, 72, 168 

Pilot 62 

plot 

clearing active guidance 174 

clearing plot data 174 

defining 171 


editing 173 

erasing 175 

recalling 173 

PLOT key 130 

Polygon Entry 169 

polygons 

calculating area 170 

defining 164 

editing 169 

navigation tips 177 

points 165 

recalling 170 

saving to a plot 172 

POS Report 135 

power 

control box 4 

turning AirStar off 19 

turning AirStar on 15 

pre-flight checklist 78 

R 

receivers, switching 150 

remote A|B|C line 64, 178 

Repeat Tank Volume 75 

Reset Area 76 

Rgt disp 38 

route 

defining 162 

Part Number: 875-0081-001 

S 


recalling 163 

setting up automatic guidance 163 

Screen Setup 29, 119, 137 

settings 

default 22 

resetting 22 

SLXg3 4 

software 

running from hard drive 142 

running from PCMCIA card 119 

Spray Area 75 

Spray Area Counters 76 

spray compensation 134 

Spray Overlap 76 

Swath Width 62 

Sys Options Setup 134 

system options 119, 133 

T 

Tank Volume 75 

test messages 17 

time 

daylight savings 57 

local time offset 57 

troubleshooting 112


U 

units 54, 118, 132 

W 

WAAS 4, 8 

waypoint 25 

clearing active guidance 161 

editing 160 

erasing 161 

recalling 160 

saving to a route 162 

setting 157 

Windows 98 16 

Z 

zooming 32, 137, 182

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