Checklist 2: How to Monitor Observations

The following checklist items suggest things to look for during an observation. Many other monitoring operations can be performed using the software described in Online Programs and Displays.

• Run the task ASSISTANCE with the bell enabled. Ignore (with i) any reported errors that are not really errors. (You can also use the setup (s) pages to disable particular error checks.) The following quantities are monitored by the online system, and errors reported by ASSISTANCE.
  • delays, phases and gains (on calibrators)
  • pointing (check errors)
  • sampler statistics
  • free disk space
• Look at CAOBS to check that scans start and finish according to your schedule file. Occasionally an antenna fails to track: you may need to stop the scan and start it again.
• Look at CACOR to check that a data file opens when you start
• Run the task CAMON to monitor sampler stats, power levels etc.
• Use VIS to look at the visibilities. Amplitude visibilities give clear indications of scan changes, interference and structure in strong sources. Ensure that you cycle through the different polarisations over time.
• Watch for error messages on CACOR and CAOBS
• Check the individual baselines displays with SPD
• Check the system temperatures of the receivers from time to time (with CAOBS or CACOR)
• Keep an eye on the ATDRIVEMON display (see section 8.1.5 on page )
• Keep an eye on the monica pages.
• Be aware of the weather: monitor the WINDS display and the various web weather displays. Also, go outside occasionally!