Piping Rock Engineering MARSA4 Flight Computer User Manual

This is the MARSA4 flight computer user manual, which introduces the function and usage of MARSA4 flight computer


Piping Rock Engineering MARSA4 Flight Computer User Manual - cover page
Brand
MARSA4
Category
Other device
Document type
User Manual
Language
English
Pages
18
File format
PDF
File size
727 KB
Published
01 June, 2012
Updated
30 September, 2023
MD5 checksum
D4DD1B052662018E4D8892A402EC1B8D

About this manual

This manual explains the safety requirements and hardware description of the MARSA4 experimental altimeter, including battery requirements, ematch specifications, and mounting instructions. It also details the barometric sensor’s sensitivity to sunlight and the proper handling of pyrotechnic outputs.

The guide walks the user through power‑up sequencing, programming the flight computer, diagnostic menus, and using the MARSA Connect software to download flight data and update firmware. It includes step‑by‑step procedures for connecting to a computer, flashing new firmware, and troubleshooting continuity tests.

What's inside

  • Disclaimer of Liability
  • Important Safety Information
  • Ematch Selection and Testing
  • Barometric Sensor Sunlight Sensitivity
  • Physical Description of the MARSA4 Hardware
  • Installation and Mounting
  • Using the MARSA4 Flight Computer
  • Power‑up Sequence
  • Programming the MARSA4
  • Firmware Update Procedure

Specifications

Battery typeSingle 9 V alkaline or NiMH rechargeable
Maximum battery voltage11 V (must not exceed 12 V)
Ematch no‑fire current> 0.2 A
Ematch all‑fire current< 2 A

Frequently asked questions

What battery should be used with the MARSA4?

Use a single 9 V alkaline or NiMH rechargeable battery, keeping the voltage below 11 V and never above 12 V.

How should the MARSA4 be mounted in a rocket?

Mount the altimeter securely with #4 hardware using the four PCB corner holes (1.95" × 3.75" centers) so the long direction is parallel to the rocket’s axis.

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