TBR Receiver Maintenance Guide

In acoustic telemetry, well-maintained equipment is essential for accurate data and long service life. Regular maintenance ensures receivers remain watertight and fully functional. Some tasks can be performed by the user, while others require service from Thelma Biotel.

This guide applies to:
• TBR 800
• TBR 800 Release
• TBR 800 Release MRS
• TBR 800 Release Deep

General receiver maintenance:
Follow these steps for regular receiver maintenance:

1. Cleaning: Remove biofouling using a soft brush or non-abrasive scrubber. Excessive fouling may interfere with the sealing surfaces when replacing batteries and increase the risk of leaks.
2. Visual inspection: Examine the receiver and its seals for damage, corrosion, and cracks.
3. Battery replacement: Replace batteries according to the battery manufacturer’s recommendations. Dispose of used batteries in compliance with local regulations.
4. Drying agent: Replace the drying agent (silica gel packs) when replacing the battery.
5. Firmware updates: It is recommended to check for firmware updates before starting a new study. Updating during an ongoing deployment is usually not necessary unless there are critical fixes or important improvements relevant to your setup.
6. Acoustic signal check: You can test the basic functionality of the transducer by gently tapping the top of the receiver while monitoring the signal in the LiveView plot. A distinct signal response confirms that the transducer is functioning. Receivers can also be sent to Thelma Biotel for service and maintenance, where more thorough functionality tests are performed.

O-ring maintenance:
The video below demonstrates how to safely remove, clean, lubricate and reinstall the two main O-rings on the receiver head to ensure proper sealing.

1. Inspection: Regularly inspect O-rings for cracks, dirt, fibers, deformation or other signs of wear. To check for deformation, gently roll the O-ring between your fingers. If it feels square or has noticeable edges, it should be replaced.
2. Lubrication: Apply a compatible silicone or PTFE-based lubricant to the O-rings before sealing to prevent damage during assembly.
3. Seal replacement: Replace any O-ring showing damage or wear to prevent water leakage into the receiver.
4. Regular replacement: O-rings should be replaced regularly to maintain proper sealing and ensure the TBR receivers perform reliably over time. Contact Thelma Biotel for O-ring specifications or to order O-ring kits directly from us.

NOTE: Some O-rings are difficult to access and replace. Replacing these is part of the “Thelma Biotel Receiver Service and Performance Check”.

Thelma Biotel receiver service and performance check:
The service includes complete O-ring replacement and seal inspection, drying agent replacement, firmware update and full performance testing. Contact us at [email protected] to schedule a service and performance check for your receivers.

Thelma Biotel receiver service kits:
For more comprehensive maintenance, Thelma Biotel provides service kits containing O-rings and drying agent. These kits are intended for use during scheduled maintenance or when preparing receivers for redeployment.