PAL Projection Reality^TM Manual
(The PAL version looks about the same as the NTSC version on the outside, but it uses a slightly different receiver. This unit is for NON-USA use.)

**CAUTION ** ELECTRIC DEVICE

Tampering with the camera/transmitter will void any warranty. Not recommended for children under sixteen years of age. As with all electric products, precaution should be observed during handling & use to prevent electric shock!

The Projection Reality^TM Module - a revolution in robotic Telepresence.
The heart of the Projection Reality^TM Module, the CCD (charge coupled device), is a solid state version of the more common & much larger vacuum tube camera. The same type of "cutting edge" electronics is actually used in weather & surveillance satellites for viewing the Earth from space. The Projection Reality^TM Module is the integration of a high quality, miniature color television camera with a 2.4 GHz transmitter.

All you need is your own TV or VCR. You can also record the Projection Reality^TM Module video images using your Computer Video Capture Board (PCI Type with Tuner).

I. CONNECTING THE RECEIVER

The Receiver can be connected to a: TV VCR Computer Video Capture Board (PCI Type with Tuner) (Macintosh or PC)

To connect Receiver to a VCR to record Projection Reality^TM Module on your VCR, screw the "F" type coaxial connector onto the antenna-in/video-in jack on your VCR, just as you would connect your antenna or cable TV connection. Connect your TV to the VCR & proceed to record in your normal manner. The TV/VCR must be set to the channel that corresponds to the channel select switch on the bottom of the Receiver (see Figure C). Select either Channel 3 or 4, whichever one is not used in the area in which you live. Remember: both the switch on the Receiver & the switch on the TV or VCR must match. To connect Receiver to a Computer Video Capture Board (PCI Type with Tuner), follow the directions provided in the "Operator's Manual" which you received with the Video Capture Board to properly install the Board & its software into the computer. When the Video Capture Board is properly installed in the computer, you need to plug the cable from the Receiver into the Video-In port on the Video Capture Board. Then follow the directions of the software in the Operator's Manual which comes with the Video Capture Board (PCI Type with Tuner) to view live video, and/or to capture film clips or still images for your own use.

II. PREPARING THE ROBOT

You might want to insulate the motors on your robot before mounting the Projection Reality^TM Module. Make sure you measure were you will mount the Projection Reality^TM Module BEFORE you start drilling. You may want to consider Velcro.

III. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

(Note: The four AA batteries (DC option) usually power the camera for about an hour, depending on your power conservation)

Switch on the Camera/Transmitter. Switch on the Receiver. Turn on the TV, VCR or Computer. Tune in channel 3 or 4 (if you have a TV or VCR). The Projection Reality^TM Module is ready to take you places you couldn't go before!!! When finished, switch the Camera/Transmitter unit OFF by again depressing the ON/OFF switch. Turn OFF the Receiver.

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HINT #1 Inadequate connections can generate interference or "noise" on the video screen. Better contact & soldering & insulating will definitely help.

Also, noisy motors & servos will create video static

HINT #2 The Projection Reality^TM Module operates best on evenly lit layouts. You may find that very bright or very dark areas may interfere with the automatic iris & white balance on the Projection Reality^TM Module. The Projection Reality^TM Module will automatically adjust to changing lighting conditions, but not to "bright spots" in an otherwise moderately lit scene. The best test for your layout is to run the Projection Reality^TM Module & adjust your lighting to create the most dramatic environment. You may also choose to install lighting inside tunnels or other dark areas.

HINT #3 As the Camera batteries run down, a change in the picture may occur, but it is very slight. The characteristics of the Projection Reality^TM Module cause the battery to "go dead" suddenly. The Projection Reality^TM Module operates between 6 volts & 8 volts. To prolong battery live, keep the power switch in the OFF position, unless you are watching the Projection Reality^TM Module. You can expect the Projection Reality^TM Module to operate for 45 to 60 minutes with the 4 "AA" batteries. (You must use fresh Alkaline batteries for the Projection Reality^TM Module operation. In some cases, batteries that have been on the shelf for an extended period will not have the 6 to 8 volts necessary to run the Projection Reality^TM Module. Carbon-zinc & nickel-cadmium batteries will not drive the Projection Reality^TM Module.)

HINT #4 While the Projection Reality^TM Module can transmit the video signals through certain low-density objects, any object placed between the robot & the Receiver will diminish the quality of the video image. It is important to minimize the amount of obstruction between the robot & the Receiver to give optimal results.

IV TROUBLE SHOOTING

PROBLEM	CAUSE	SOLUTION
No Picture	Power Switch OFF	Check Power Switches on the Projection RealityTM Module & Receiver
Reddish Picture	Low Battery Power	Check batteries. Replace as needed
Dim Picture in sections of layout	Obstructions Caused by too many or too dense obstructions between camera & receiver in certain areas of your layout.	Change layout or environment
Too dark	Not enough ambient light	Increase the lighting on your layout in an even manner
Picture with interference from TV channels	Broadcast signal is interfering with the Projection RealityTM Module operation	Set the receiver & your TV for the unused channel in your area- Channel 3 or 4
Loud static noise	The Projection RealityTM Module does not transmit sound	Turn your TV sound OFF

If you have other questions you can e-mail the manufacturer tech@mekatronix.com

Copyright 2002 Mr Robot ^TM