DocUSMCRetired
Well-Known Member
Have a question, or need help trouble shooting? Ask away! I am reviving this thread, and bringing it back over from the old site.
Just please be specific as to what you are having problems with. AB Tactical, AB Google Play, AB iOS (Apple), Kestrel Companion, AB Profile Loader, Kestrel Boot Loader (Firmware Updating), AB Analytics or anything else. Feel free to ask, and I will try to help you solve the issue, or find someone who can.
_________________________________________________________________
Understanding Ballsitics Software and the Solvers behind them:
When considering which Ballistics Program to choose, always make sure you understand whats behind the GUI (Face), What makes up that program, for that here is Bryan Litz to explain it: www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC102_HowBallisticsProgramsWork.pdf
Understand the difference between the Litz Curves or AB Custom curves and someone saying they use Bryan Litz Coefficients or numbers. When you look at software and they say they use the Bryan Litz Coefficient they are taking that BC number and entering it in as G7. As opposed to Applied Ballistics where they use the actual Ballistic Curve developed through the full time Ballistics Lab. So while other apps and companies use G1 and G7. Applied ballistics uses G1, G7, and AB Custom. Which brings me to another point. Would you rather have a modified G7 BC, or would you rather have the Actual Curve developed through the lab? Litz Curves are only on Applied Ballistics Platforms.
Another thing to understand. Applied Ballistics has a full time Ballistics Lab constantly testing, updating, and providing the latest information. This means you are getting the backing of an incredibly accurate and up to date system. A proven system which other companies try meet.
Applied ballistics is, a Platform. While other companies offer the app and sometime the occasional device. Applied Ballistics is a complete platform. Offering systems on Android, PC, iOS, PC Analytic Software, IBEAM, ABEAM, REM, Wind Sensor Array, Tripod Weather Vane System for Kestrel, Raptor-S, Training Material, Full Time Lab, Full Time Support Staff, just to name a few. All that are inter-connective. This means that you are getting a system, not just an app. A Platform with integration in to multiple proven systems, all which can talk with each other. Devices that mount to a weapon, mount to an optic, and can talk with each other, in real time, giving you the best possible firing solution in real time.
_________________________________________________________________
Some Known Resources:
Applied Ballistics Main Page: Home Page | Applied Ballistics, LLC
Nvisti Main Page: nVisti, LLC
Kestrel Meters: Rowing Sports Equipment | Weather Environmental Meters| Rugged Megaphones | Nielsen-Kellerman
Ballistics Calculator(or Create Range Card): Ballistics Calculator | Applied Ballistics, LLC
Bullet Data: Bullet Data | Applied Ballistics, LLC
Understanding the Wind's Influence: http://www.nvisti.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/NVDOC1403-Wind.pdf
Understanding WEZ Analysis: http://www.nvisti.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/NVDOC14.02-WEZ.pdf
Using WEZ Analysis: www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC115_ProbabalisticWEZ.pdf
Practical Ballistics by Bryan Litz: www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC118_PracticalBallistics.pdf
Gyroscopic Spin Drift and Coriolis Effect by Bryan Litz: www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC108_GyroscopicAndCoriolis.pdf
BC Testing (Ballistics Coefficients) by Bryan Litz: www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC106_BCTesting.pdf
Kestrel Sensors & Specs: kestrelmeters.com/pages/sensors-specs
________________________________________________________________
Guides:
Kestrel 4500AB Manual: http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0084/9012/t/1/assets/Applied_Ballistics_Instrucstions.pdf
How to Find the Com Port: http://mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?s=541&f=5542&t=13300069
How to update the Firmware: www.nkhome.com/pdfs/How_to_Update_y...r_with_Applied_Ballistics_to_Version_4.83.pdf
_________________________________________________________________
Firmware, Updates, Profile Loader:
Below you will find the Firmware updater (Bootloader) and the Profile Loader(Create Weapons and Bullet Profiles and Load them on to a Kestrel via PC. Includes ALL Custom Curves, is free with the purchase of a Kestrel):
Clicking the Links Below will start a Download:
Bootloader & Profile Loader (Bluetooth Kestrel): http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/00...UpdatedProfileLoader-ForBluetooth__V_4.80.zip
Bootloader & Profile Loader (Non-Bluetooth Kestrel): http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/00...atedProfileLoader-ForNonBluetooth__V_4.80.zip
_________________________________________________________________
Links to the different software:
AB Tactical(125$): AB_Tac_App | Applied Ballistics, LLC
AB Analytics(200$): AB Analytics Package - Free "Accuracy and Precision" Book
Applied Ballistics (30$): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appliedballisticsllc.appliedballistics&hl=en
Kestrel Companion (5$): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ab.kestrelcompanion&hl=en
Applied Ballistics iOS (30$): https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/applied-ballistics/id785619104?mt=8
_________________________________________________________________
Known fixes:
Using a Toshiba Bluetooth Interface. Microsoft and other interfaces are known to not be as stable, or as good as Toshiba. So if you are having a buggy connection or unreliable connection move to a Toshiba Interface and Stacks. This is a known way to improve stability.
Bluetooth Connection problems fix #2. Update to the newest firmware (if you already haven't) and then switch from Low to HIgh, or High to Low to High under bluetooth settings. This is known to improve stability for some that have had hiccups so to speak.
Cant seem to get a connection to your PC, and you know the com port is right? Double check what your Kestrel is connected to! So your ready to use PC Software and you turn on your Kestrel, but behold it connects to a tablet or a phone without you knowing! Make sure your Kestrel is not connected to something else.
Switching apps on a tablet or phone and connection keeps timing out or failing? Make sure that the old app released the Kestrel. I regularly switch between applications, and have been guilty of this. Make sure before you shut down say Kestrel Companion and open AB Tactical that the previously running app has released its hold so to speak. To do this make sure you disconnect. You can even turn the bluetooth off then back on if you want that extra step of confidence. Sometimes its been known to happen where someone closes an app (but its running in the background still connected) and open a new app only to find they cant connect. Always make sure the previous app has released the kestrel from its hold.
The Kestrel cannot connect to an iPhone or iPad. This is because Apple requires extra steps in order to have a Bluetooth connection between itself and a product. At this current time, the Kestrel does not have the extra needed hardware in order to do this (It would require the addition of another chip in the Kestrel itself physically).
Be mindful when calibrating the compass of your surroundings. Try not to do this indoors, around power lines, vehicles, anything that can throw off a compass. I have metal internal hardware in my left wrist, and I also found out its beneficial to remove your wedding ring. Yes its that sensitive (They give you a battery shield to prevent the batteries from interfering for a reason). Look around you, avoid electronics, and things that can throw off the compass when calibrating. Always have a compass to compare readings, and never hold them close to each other. Read the compass, find a reference point, and read the Kestrel. They should not anywhere near each other when checking calibration. You can usually find 3H Tritium Compasses used for 20-30$.
_________________________________________________________________
Common Question "What should I look for in a Kestrel" or Buyers Guide:
1) Look for DA or Density Altitude. This is one of the more important features for shooting. DA is basically what the bullet feels. Instead of using exact altitude formulas and gps location, DA tells you what the atmosphere feels like to the bullet as it flies. Only 4000 series and up feature Density Altitude.
2) The more you spend now, the more you get back later. Kestrel has a buy back program. So the better model you have, the more get when you trade it in for the latest and greatest later. Customer Trade-In Program | Nielsen-Kellerman
3) Military discounts, Kestrel does offer them, and of course Applied Ballistics always works with loyal customers on discounts.
4) Bluetooth. The USB cable is 100$. The Bluetooth upgrade is also 100$. The Bluetooth upgrade has a lot of advantages over the USB. Like mobile connectivity, ease of use, and its the same price. If your going to buy the USB cable to update firmware (the other option is you have to send it in), then you might as well upgrade to Bluetooth. ITS THE SAME PRICE. Only 4000 series and up have the option for Bluetooth upgrade.
_________________________________________________________________
If you need any further assitance, or have a question please feel free to ask. You may also email me at the address below.
Applied Ballistics Support Team
[email protected]
Just please be specific as to what you are having problems with. AB Tactical, AB Google Play, AB iOS (Apple), Kestrel Companion, AB Profile Loader, Kestrel Boot Loader (Firmware Updating), AB Analytics or anything else. Feel free to ask, and I will try to help you solve the issue, or find someone who can.
_________________________________________________________________
Understanding Ballsitics Software and the Solvers behind them:
When considering which Ballistics Program to choose, always make sure you understand whats behind the GUI (Face), What makes up that program, for that here is Bryan Litz to explain it: www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC102_HowBallisticsProgramsWork.pdf
Understand the difference between the Litz Curves or AB Custom curves and someone saying they use Bryan Litz Coefficients or numbers. When you look at software and they say they use the Bryan Litz Coefficient they are taking that BC number and entering it in as G7. As opposed to Applied Ballistics where they use the actual Ballistic Curve developed through the full time Ballistics Lab. So while other apps and companies use G1 and G7. Applied ballistics uses G1, G7, and AB Custom. Which brings me to another point. Would you rather have a modified G7 BC, or would you rather have the Actual Curve developed through the lab? Litz Curves are only on Applied Ballistics Platforms.
Another thing to understand. Applied Ballistics has a full time Ballistics Lab constantly testing, updating, and providing the latest information. This means you are getting the backing of an incredibly accurate and up to date system. A proven system which other companies try meet.
Applied ballistics is, a Platform. While other companies offer the app and sometime the occasional device. Applied Ballistics is a complete platform. Offering systems on Android, PC, iOS, PC Analytic Software, IBEAM, ABEAM, REM, Wind Sensor Array, Tripod Weather Vane System for Kestrel, Raptor-S, Training Material, Full Time Lab, Full Time Support Staff, just to name a few. All that are inter-connective. This means that you are getting a system, not just an app. A Platform with integration in to multiple proven systems, all which can talk with each other. Devices that mount to a weapon, mount to an optic, and can talk with each other, in real time, giving you the best possible firing solution in real time.
_________________________________________________________________
Some Known Resources:
Applied Ballistics Main Page: Home Page | Applied Ballistics, LLC
Nvisti Main Page: nVisti, LLC
Kestrel Meters: Rowing Sports Equipment | Weather Environmental Meters| Rugged Megaphones | Nielsen-Kellerman
Ballistics Calculator(or Create Range Card): Ballistics Calculator | Applied Ballistics, LLC
Bullet Data: Bullet Data | Applied Ballistics, LLC
Understanding the Wind's Influence: http://www.nvisti.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/NVDOC1403-Wind.pdf
Understanding WEZ Analysis: http://www.nvisti.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/NVDOC14.02-WEZ.pdf
Using WEZ Analysis: www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC115_ProbabalisticWEZ.pdf
Practical Ballistics by Bryan Litz: www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC118_PracticalBallistics.pdf
Gyroscopic Spin Drift and Coriolis Effect by Bryan Litz: www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC108_GyroscopicAndCoriolis.pdf
BC Testing (Ballistics Coefficients) by Bryan Litz: www.appliedballisticsllc.com/Articles/ABDOC106_BCTesting.pdf
Kestrel Sensors & Specs: kestrelmeters.com/pages/sensors-specs
________________________________________________________________
Guides:
Kestrel 4500AB Manual: http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0084/9012/t/1/assets/Applied_Ballistics_Instrucstions.pdf
How to Find the Com Port: http://mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?s=541&f=5542&t=13300069
How to update the Firmware: www.nkhome.com/pdfs/How_to_Update_y...r_with_Applied_Ballistics_to_Version_4.83.pdf
_________________________________________________________________
Firmware, Updates, Profile Loader:
Below you will find the Firmware updater (Bootloader) and the Profile Loader(Create Weapons and Bullet Profiles and Load them on to a Kestrel via PC. Includes ALL Custom Curves, is free with the purchase of a Kestrel):
Clicking the Links Below will start a Download:
Bootloader & Profile Loader (Bluetooth Kestrel): http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/00...UpdatedProfileLoader-ForBluetooth__V_4.80.zip
Bootloader & Profile Loader (Non-Bluetooth Kestrel): http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/00...atedProfileLoader-ForNonBluetooth__V_4.80.zip
_________________________________________________________________
Links to the different software:
AB Tactical(125$): AB_Tac_App | Applied Ballistics, LLC
AB Analytics(200$): AB Analytics Package - Free "Accuracy and Precision" Book
Applied Ballistics (30$): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appliedballisticsllc.appliedballistics&hl=en
Kestrel Companion (5$): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ab.kestrelcompanion&hl=en
Applied Ballistics iOS (30$): https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/applied-ballistics/id785619104?mt=8
_________________________________________________________________
Known fixes:
Using a Toshiba Bluetooth Interface. Microsoft and other interfaces are known to not be as stable, or as good as Toshiba. So if you are having a buggy connection or unreliable connection move to a Toshiba Interface and Stacks. This is a known way to improve stability.
Bluetooth Connection problems fix #2. Update to the newest firmware (if you already haven't) and then switch from Low to HIgh, or High to Low to High under bluetooth settings. This is known to improve stability for some that have had hiccups so to speak.
Cant seem to get a connection to your PC, and you know the com port is right? Double check what your Kestrel is connected to! So your ready to use PC Software and you turn on your Kestrel, but behold it connects to a tablet or a phone without you knowing! Make sure your Kestrel is not connected to something else.
Switching apps on a tablet or phone and connection keeps timing out or failing? Make sure that the old app released the Kestrel. I regularly switch between applications, and have been guilty of this. Make sure before you shut down say Kestrel Companion and open AB Tactical that the previously running app has released its hold so to speak. To do this make sure you disconnect. You can even turn the bluetooth off then back on if you want that extra step of confidence. Sometimes its been known to happen where someone closes an app (but its running in the background still connected) and open a new app only to find they cant connect. Always make sure the previous app has released the kestrel from its hold.
The Kestrel cannot connect to an iPhone or iPad. This is because Apple requires extra steps in order to have a Bluetooth connection between itself and a product. At this current time, the Kestrel does not have the extra needed hardware in order to do this (It would require the addition of another chip in the Kestrel itself physically).
Be mindful when calibrating the compass of your surroundings. Try not to do this indoors, around power lines, vehicles, anything that can throw off a compass. I have metal internal hardware in my left wrist, and I also found out its beneficial to remove your wedding ring. Yes its that sensitive (They give you a battery shield to prevent the batteries from interfering for a reason). Look around you, avoid electronics, and things that can throw off the compass when calibrating. Always have a compass to compare readings, and never hold them close to each other. Read the compass, find a reference point, and read the Kestrel. They should not anywhere near each other when checking calibration. You can usually find 3H Tritium Compasses used for 20-30$.
_________________________________________________________________
Common Question "What should I look for in a Kestrel" or Buyers Guide:
1) Look for DA or Density Altitude. This is one of the more important features for shooting. DA is basically what the bullet feels. Instead of using exact altitude formulas and gps location, DA tells you what the atmosphere feels like to the bullet as it flies. Only 4000 series and up feature Density Altitude.
2) The more you spend now, the more you get back later. Kestrel has a buy back program. So the better model you have, the more get when you trade it in for the latest and greatest later. Customer Trade-In Program | Nielsen-Kellerman
3) Military discounts, Kestrel does offer them, and of course Applied Ballistics always works with loyal customers on discounts.
4) Bluetooth. The USB cable is 100$. The Bluetooth upgrade is also 100$. The Bluetooth upgrade has a lot of advantages over the USB. Like mobile connectivity, ease of use, and its the same price. If your going to buy the USB cable to update firmware (the other option is you have to send it in), then you might as well upgrade to Bluetooth. ITS THE SAME PRICE. Only 4000 series and up have the option for Bluetooth upgrade.
_________________________________________________________________
If you need any further assitance, or have a question please feel free to ask. You may also email me at the address below.
Applied Ballistics Support Team
[email protected]
