Step 1: Turn on the GPS and Flow Control Power
Turn the aircraft GPS system on.
Step 2: Put the GPS in simulator mode
Set the GPS to simulator mode before testing flow control.
Step 3: Do not connect the pressure switch before power on
Do not have the pressure switch connected before the GPS powers up. This can cause GPS errors.
Step 4: Connect the pressure switch jumper
After the GPS is powered on and in simulator mode, install the supplied pressure switch jumper wire. (Connect the two prongs) This makes the GPS think there is spray pressure.
Step 5: Test the flow sensor
Use the bottom sensor test connector on FlowSim Pro.
- For a 3-pin amplified sensor, move the supplied magnet near the sensor. The sensor should activate without touching it.
- For a 2-pin non-amplified sensor, rub the supplied magnet directly on the sensor or hold it very close to the sensor.
Step 6: Connect the aircraft sensor wire
Unplug the aircraft sensor wire from the flow sensor.
Plug that same aircraft sensor wire into FlowSim Pro.
FlowSim Pro will now send a simulated flow signal to the GPS.
Step 7: Set the GPS for testing
On the GPS, Set in your field values so you can see these values.
- Target gallons per acre
- Actual gallons per acre
- Valve position display, if available so you can see where you valve is sitting
Step 8: Turn flow control on
Make sure the GPS flow control switch is powered on and set to normal operating mode - not in bypass mode which will fully open your valve and will not function.
Step 9: Adjust the FlowSim Pro frequency
Turn the frequency control on FlowSim Pro.
This simulates the flow meter spinning.
The GPS should show the actual GPA changing as the frequency changes.
You will not need to change the DUTY on the FlowSim Pro Only the FREQUENCY
Step 10: Watch the spray valve
If the simulated flow is too low, the GPS should command the valve one direction.
If the simulated flow is too high, the GPS should command the valve the other direction.
If the simulated flow matches the target GPA, the valve should stop moving.
Step 11: Change speed
Change the speed setting in simulator mode.
The GPS will recalculate the required flow.
Because FlowSim Pro frequency has not changed, the GPS should see a rate error and move the valve.
Step 12: Change swath width
Change the swath width setting in the GPS.
The GPS will recalculate the required flow.
If the frequency stays the same, the GPS should adjust the valve to correct the rate.
Step 13: Test short boom operation
Select a short boom or reduced swath section in the GPS.
The GPS will reduce the swath width.
FlowSim Pro will keep sending the same simulated flow signal.
The GPS should recognize that the flow is no longer correct for the reduced swath width.
The GPS should then adjust the spray valve.
Step 14: Use the results to troubleshoot
If the GPS actual GPA changes when you adjust frequency, the GPS is receiving the flow signal.
If the valve moves when frequency, speed, or swath width changes, the GPS is communicating with the flow control valve.
If actual GPA does not change, check the sensor wire or flow signal connection.
If actual GPA changes but the valve does not move, check the control valve, valve wiring, bypass wiring, or flow control output.
Common Uses
- Testing a new install before the aircraft leaves the hangar
- Checking flow control without water
- Checking flow control without running the aircraft
- Testing short boom settings
- Checking if the GPS is receiving flow signal
- Checking if the GPS is commanding the spray valve
- Testing old valves, cables, sensor wires, flow sensors, and flow control boxes
- Finding wiring or component problems before going to the field
