purchasing: For an off-the-shelf LADCP, it takes a couple of weeks to generate a quote and get a purchase order throught. Then it takes 3 months from receipt of the PO for RDI to build an LADCP. Add ground shipping next) and 6 months before a cruise departs, it’s time to start thinking about what needs to be ordered. This includes LADCP, replacement cables, or new batteries.
brackets: Be aware of which group is doing the CTD operations. The rosette they use may or may not have brackets for the LADCP or a housing to mount the battery. These need to be constructed and tested before shipping, so the timing for new brackets is similar to buying a new instrument.
- PMEL no longer uses the 36-place rosette, and in fact has not wanted to use the SOB, but has supplied their own battery for use with the LADCP. Check 4-5 months before the cruise to make surethey have brackets for the current LADCP in use.
- ODF has LADCP brackets for a down-looking and uplooking pair. The diameter of the brackets for the downlooking instrument will work for the wh150 or the wh300. ODF also has an expanded-metal box designed for the battery. Make sure they bring that too.
passport: Make sure you have a passport that expires at least 6 months after the date of entry to the final destination country. Some countries want you to have at least 2 blank pages in your passport.
visa for foreign travel: You might need a visa. The Chief Scientist should figure out about this and warn you in time, but it never hurts to check.
shipping: About 2 months before the cruise, gear should be assembled and shipping arranged. It takes about 6 weeks for a ground (shipping container) shipment to get where it’s going. Any laptop or disk that is shipped should be configured prior to shipping (see Computer Installation).
computers: if new laptops need to be purchased, this is the time.
think about the where the gear is going after the cruise
The chief scientist will be sending out an email asking about what bench/labspace is needed by the different groups. See Space needs for general requirements.
The chief scientist will be sending out email asking about hazardous materials and chemicals. We have two documents if interest, both for the Safe Orange Battery.
travel: buy plane tickets, make hotel arrangements
laptops: configure any laptop or disk that may not have been shipped (see Computer Installation). These may go as carry-on luggage.
(USB disk, cables, o-rings)
See LADCP operator: Typical cast
The last cast may take place a few miles from port, or there may be a long transit to get back to port. A few days before getting to port everyone will be packing their gear.