How to use the Optiview controls on an Altec DL DM Digger Derrick

Let’s take a look at the units equipped with an Optiview system. On this machine, the lower control panel has two joysticks, one for boom functions and one for winch and digger functions. Once you become familiar with the controls, you can use both controls at the same time.

These joysticks are spring centered but not locked in the center position. However, there is an interlock triggering the joystick. It must be engaged before boom movement will occur. The red emergency stop button controls the operation of all functions. Press the control down to engage the emergency stop. Turn the control clockwise to disengage. The lower controls are activated by moving the lower/upper radio switch to the lower control position.

Note: The upper controls cease to function when the lower controls are in the override position.

The foot throttle will accelerate the truck’s engine from idle to a preset higher engine RPM. For optimum performance of the hydraulic system, use the foot throttle when operating boom, winch, or digger functions. The joystick on the right controls boom functions and the joystick on the left, controls digger and winch functions. To extend the upper boom, move the joystick to the right, to retract move it to the left.

To extend the intermediate boom press the button on top of the joystick and move right. To retract, press the button and move left. To raise the boom, pull the joystick back. To lower, push forward. To rotate the boom, simply rotate the joystick in the desired direction.

To operate the digger clean function, move the left joystick left. For dig function, move the joystick to the right. To pay out the winch line, move the left joystick forward. To retract the winch line, pull back. Remember, during extension of the booms, the winch line must be paid out to compensate for the increased rope length between the winch drum and the sheave. This prevents damage to the boom tip and breaking of the winch line.

The DM47B also has a series of switches to operate the machine’s accessories. They are operated in the same way as the controls at the stand-up multi-lever console.

Altec Sentry offers training designed to help employers train and qualify equipment operators on the safe and proper operation of aerial devices (insulating, non-insulating and tree care), digger derricks, chippers, and cranes.

Visit Sentry’s website to access operator safety and maintenance courses for many of our products. For questions about Sentry training or to register for a class, email sentrypost@altec.com.