Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker Pro User Manual

Introduction

The Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker Pro is a USA-made handheld, rugged, multi-function WBGT heat stress meter designed for comprehensive environmental monitoring. It provides 15 environmental measurements, allowing users to monitor Thermal Work Limit (TWL), temperature, heat index, humidity, and more to ensure safety across various conditions. This waterproof unit features a large backlit display and integrated compass, tracking and logging time-stamped data that can be easily transferred to a PC via USB. It is an essential tool for applications in athletics, construction, facility management, industrial hygiene, and military operations.

Image: The Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker Pro, an orange handheld device with a black globe thermometer and impeller, displaying a WBGT reading of 70.7.

What's in the Box

• Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker Pro Unit
• Vane Mount
• Lanyard
• AAA Battery (1)
• Certificate of Conformity
• User Manual (this document)

Image: The Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker Pro, vane mount, lanyard, AAA battery, and documentation laid out on a surface, representing the contents of the product box.

Key Features

• USA-made handheld rugged, multi-function WBGT heat stress meter with 15 environmental measurements.
• Monitor TWL, temperature, heat index, humidity and more to ensure safety in all conditions.
• Waterproof unit with large backlit display and integrated compass.
• Tracks and logs time-stamped data that can be easily transferred to PC via USB.
• Use in athletics, construction, facility management, industrial hygiene, and military applications.

Setup

Battery Installation

The Kestrel 5400 requires one AAA battery (included). To install or replace the battery:

1. Locate the battery compartment on the back of the unit.
2. Open the battery compartment cover.
3. Insert the AAA battery, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
4. Securely close the battery compartment cover.

Image: Rear view of the Kestrel 5400, highlighting the battery compartment and serial number.

Initial Power On

Press the power button (usually the bottom-left button) to turn on the device. The display will illuminate and show initial readings.

Operating Instructions

The Kestrel 5400 features an intuitive button interface for navigation and settings adjustment. Use the directional arrows to scroll through menus and the center button to select options.

Compass Calibration

Compass calibration is crucial for accurate wind direction and ballistic calculations. It should be performed after battery changes, firmware updates, or if you change geographical locations. It is also recommended to calibrate every 2-3 weeks for optimal accuracy.

1. From the main screen, press the 'gear' button (settings).
2. Scroll to "SYSTEM" and press the center button.
3. Scroll to "COMPASS CAL." and press the center button.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions: Hold the Kestrel upright and rotate it slowly for 30 seconds, completing one full turn every 6 seconds. Keep the device away from any metal objects during calibration.
5. If calibration fails, try in a different location. If issues persist, perform a soft reset by removing the battery, holding the power button for 30 seconds, then reinserting the battery and trying again.

Setting WBGT Alerts

The Kestrel 5400 allows you to set audible and visual alerts based on WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) guidelines, helping to prevent heat stress. You can choose from pre-programmed guidelines (e.g., Athletic, Military, Occupational) and customize alert zones.

1. From the main screen, scroll to the WBGT measurement screen.
2. Press the center select button to access the WBGT settings menu.
3. Highlight "Type" and scroll left/right to select "Indoor" or "Outdoor" based on your environment.
4. Highlight "Zones" and ensure it is set to "On". Press the center button to enter the Zones sub-menu.
5. Highlight "Guide" and press the center button. Select your desired guideline (e.g., Athletic, Military, Occupational). For Athletic, you can choose specific state guidelines like NATA.
6. Once a guideline is selected, the unit will display associated WBGT threshold values for different risk levels (e.g., White, Green, Yellow, Orange, Red, Black).
7. Exit the Zones sub-menu and highlight "Alerts". Press the center button.
8. You can set Light and Buzzer alerts. Highlight the alert type (Light or Buzzer) and scroll left/right to select the WBGT zone (e.g., Yellow, Orange, Red, Black) at which you want the alert to activate. You can also select "Off" to disable an alert.
9. To silence an active alert, navigate back to the WBGT measurement screen and press the middle select button on the "Ignore" option.

General Measurements and Navigation

The Kestrel 5400 provides a wide range of environmental measurements. Use the up/down arrow buttons to scroll through different measurement screens. The device can display real-time data, minimum/average/maximum values, data graphs, and data points.

• WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature)
• Wind Speed
• Temperature
• Wind Chill
• Relative Humidity
• Heat Index
• Dew Point Temperature
• Wet Bulb Temperature
• Station Pressure
• Barometric Pressure
• Altitude
• Wind Direction
• Cross Winds
• Head Winds

Accessories

Enhance the functionality and portability of your Kestrel 5400 with official accessories:

• Vane Mount: Allows the Kestrel to be mounted on a tripod for continuous, accurate wind direction and speed measurements, automatically orienting into the wind.
• Tripods: Full-size and mini tripods are available for stable mounting of the Kestrel, especially when using the vane mount.
• Carrying Cases & Holsters: Various options including basic belt clip cases, MOLLE-compatible pouches, and Kydex holsters for secure and convenient transport.
• Replacement Impeller: Easily replaceable impeller for maintaining accurate wind speed readings, especially after prolonged use or exposure to debris.
• USB Data Transfer Cable: For wired connection to a PC to download logged data.
• Bluetooth LiNK Dongle: For wireless data transfer to compatible devices (PC/iOS) via Bluetooth Smart.

Image: The Kestrel 5400 mounted on a tripod with a vane mount, positioned on a green sports field under a clear sky, demonstrating its use for environmental monitoring.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the unit with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Impeller Care: Keep the impeller free of debris. If performance degrades, consider replacing the impeller.
• Battery Replacement: Replace the AAA battery as needed. Always use fresh, high-quality batteries.
• Storage: Store the Kestrel in a cool, dry place when not in use. Remove the battery if storing for extended periods.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

• Model Number: OB-KEST-0854LVCORA
• Dimensions: 2.56"L x 0.43"W (Unit only)
• Weight: 0.03 Kilograms (1.2 ounces)
• Power: 1 x AAA battery (included)
• Special Feature: Portable
• Mounting Type: Vane Mount compatible
• Measurements: WBGT, Wind Speed, Temperature, Wind Chill, Relative Humidity, Heat Index, Dew Point, Wet Bulb, Station Pressure, Barometric Pressure, Altitude, Wind Direction, Cross Winds, Head Winds.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth LiNK, USB (with optional cable)
• Waterproof: Yes

Warranty & Support

Kestrel products are designed, built, sold, and supported in the USA by Nielsen-Kellerman Company. For detailed warranty information, product support, or service inquiries, please visit the official Kestrel website or contact their customer service. Information regarding product FAQs and commitment to quality can also be found on the Kestrel Store on Amazon.