NexSens Technology, Inc. 1415 Research Park Drive Beavercreek OH 45432 Phone: (937) 426-2703 Fax: (937) 426-1125 E-Mail: info@NexSens.com Visit us on the web at http://www.NexSens.com 3100-iSIC – Cellular Intelligent Sensor Interface for Control Operations Manual and Reference Guide Revision 08.03.
NexSens Technology, Inc.
NexSens Technology, Inc. TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 Principles of Operation .......................................................................................................... 2 1.1 iSIC Components .................................................................................................................. 2 1.2 iSIC Specifications ............................................................................................................... 7 1.3 Typical Site ........................................
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.3.1 3.3.2 3.3.3 Manually Interrogating Data ................................................................................................................ 65 Automatically Interrogating Data ........................................................................................................ 66 Pausing and Un-Pausing Auto-Interrogation ....................................................................................... 66 3.4 Changing iSIC Configuration and Setup .......
NexSens Technology, Inc. About NexSens Technology, Inc. NexSens Technology, Inc. was started in the 1990s with a mission to advance the capabilities and simplify the development of environmental monitoring systems. Our main focus is on the creation of easy-to-use computer software and powerful communications technology to provide advanced remote data acquisition and data logging systems.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1 Principles of Operation 1.1 iSIC Components The enclosure that houses the NexSens iSIC PCB, wiring, and battery is a durable NEMA 4X enclosure. It measures 12” x 8” x 7” (inches) and is constructed of heavy-duty fiberglass. This enclosure is certified for both indoor and outdoor use. Falling dirt, rain, sleet, snow, windblown dust, splashing water, hose-directed water, and corrosion will not damage the enclosure.
NexSens Technology, Inc. (1) MS8 connector for the connection of Sensor RS-232 Port 0 or RS-485. This connector allows for quick connection for instruments such as YSI Sondes, which has a mating MS8 connector at the end of its cable. (1) Ground lug for electrical grounding The ground lug on the outside of the enclosure provides an earth ground to the electronics inside as well as any sensors powered by the data logger. A direct burial ground rod version is available as well as a pipe mount grounding clamp.
NexSens Technology, Inc. External Dimensions: (NEMA 4X Enclosure): 12” x 8.5” x 6.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Internal: A number of connectors are located internally on the iSIC enclosure: ▫ ▫ ▫ Expansion Plugs – A number of connectors are located internally on the iSIC enclosure. These allow an interface to the multitude of sensors in your system. An iSIC data logger allows 4 RS-232 devices, RS-485 devices, 8 analog inputs, a tipping bucket rain gauge, and 10 SDI-12 sensors to be connected at a single time. These numbers can be further increased with expansions.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Digital and Analog Connectors Two 16-pin un-pluggable terminal strip connectors are located inside the enclosure. Power and sensors will be connected to these terminals. The connector on the left is for connecting digital and smart sensors. The connector on the right is for connecting analog sensors. Descriptions for the pins on both connectors are given below: A factory installed option for analog, digital, and galvanic dissolved oxygen sensor expansion is available.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1.2 iSIC Specifications Analog Inputs Standard: (4) differential or 8) single-ended Optional: (4) differential or (8) single-ended additional 0-2.5 V auto range. 12-bit resolution. Analog Output Standard: (1) 12-bit channel Optional: (1) 12-bit channel 0-5 V or 0-2.
NexSens Technology, Inc.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3100-iSIC – Cellular 1.3 Typical Site The NexSens 3100-iSIC Cellular Modem supports cellular communication between a remote monitoring site and a computer base station. It incorporates a NexSens iSIC that controls the cellular modem and monitoring instruments on the communication network. NexSens offers cellular modems for Sprint/Nextel, AT&T/Cingular, and Verizon. Before choosing a cellular service provider, confirm that coverage is available at the site with a cell phone.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1.4 Communication Communication with a 3100-iSIC is performed over the internet. A computer only needs to have an internet connection to communicate to the 3100-iSIC. A „friends list‟ can be setup on the cellular modem for security. This „friends list‟ is a list of computers that are allowed to communicate to the 3100-iSIC. In general, the 3100iSIC comes with different kinds of modems depending on cell coverage in the area of interest: GSM/GPRS/EDGE, iDEN, or CDMA and others.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1.4.1 Setting up a Cellular Modem Account A 3100-iSIC must be programmed before it can begin sending environmental data back to an iChart database. Most of the time an account can be setup before the 3100-iSIC is delivered. In this case, NexSens will preprogram and test the cellular account for you; which means it is ready to work as soon as it is received. To setup a cellular account: 1.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Verizon To setup Verizon cellular service, contact your local Verizon office (such as a local Verizon store) and ask to speak to a data account specialist. You will need to request an 'unrestricted mobile terminated Data Account with Static IP for a CDMA 1xRTT modem'.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Sprint/Nextel To setup Sprint/Nextel cellular service, contact your local Sprint/Nextel office and ask to speak to a data account specialist. You will need to request an 'unrestricted mobile terminated data account for an iDEN modem'.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Static or Dynamic IP Addresses Static IP addresses are always recommended over dynamic IP addresses as they ensure communication uptime (as long as the equipment is functioning). For mission critical applications, such as alert notification, this communication uptime is required. For other applications, using a dynamic IP address is more affordable. When using Dynamic IP Addresses the IP address may not be available at all times.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1.4.2 Determining the IP Address of the 3100-iSIC For Cingular: When using a Custom APN, each 3100-iSIC will receive a unique IP address that is used as the IP address in iChart. This is a static IP address assigned by Cingular. When using a Dedicated APN, a unique IP address in xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx format will be used as the IP address in iChart. The DNS name of a 3100-iSIC is .internet.mycingular.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1.4.3 Activating a Verizon CDMA 3100-iSIC Cellular Modem After a Verizon CDMA 3100-iSIC data logger is received it will need to be activated with the account information as detailed in this section. Connect the 3100-iSIC modem: 1. Connect the supplied A77 3100-iSIC modem programming cable to an open PC COM port and the modem cable as indicated in the picture on the following page. 2. Attach the antenna and RF cable to the N-style connector on the 3100-iSIC enclosure 3.
NexSens Technology, Inc. After installation, select “Start | All Programs | AirLink Communications | Setup Wizard”. Click next and select the COM Port the modem is connected to and click Next. You can leave the “Auto Detect Port Settings” checked. If the modem fails to detect, first verify you are using the correct COM port and then uncheck the box and select 9600 from the Baud Rate. You can leave the Data Bits at 8, Parity at None, Stop Bits at 1 and Flow Control at None.
NexSens Technology, Inc. After the model of your Raven is detected, you will be offered a selection of tasks (Note: some tasks shown in the below image may not be available for your Raven modem). Place check marks next to Activate modem and Test Modem Setup and click Next. NOTE: On certain 3100-iSIC modems, the MSL, MDN, and MIN/MSID numbers may be requested by the wizard. If asked to specify the master subsidy lockcode, it is recommended that this number be left at the default (000000).
NexSens Technology, Inc. Checking Signal Strength: The wizard will now make sure you have sufficient signal strength to provision the modem. Make sure the antenna is connected and the modem is in a good location to receive a cellular signal. If you are indoors try moving towards a window or to a place that receives a cellular signal. Since the information required to activate the modem is downloaded, you will need to have sufficient signal strength to proceed. Click Next to proceed.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Testing Settings: The wizard will now test all connection settings. All green check marks should appear after a few moments. If the modem fails to successfully complete this step, double check the device activation information If you see the “Failed to reset the modem automatically” error, but there is a green check box in each field and the wizard says “Congratulations..”, click OK, close the wizard, reset power to the iSIC by removing the two fuses.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1.4.4 Activating a AT&T/Cingular EDGE 3100-iSIC Cellular Modem There are two steps in activating a Cingular EDGE modem: installing the SIM card and checking the APN and context values. From the Airlink Raven manual available online at http://www.airlink.com: The SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card in the Raven is a smartcard securely storing the key identifying a mobile subscriber.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Checking APN and context values: After a Cingular EDGE 3100-iSIC data logger is received it will need to be activated with the account information as detailed in this section. Connect the 3100-iSIC modem: 4. Connect the supplied A77 3100-iSIC modem programming cable to an open PC COM port and the modem cable as indicated in the picture on the following page. 5. Attach the antenna and RF cable to the N-style connector on the 3100-iSIC enclosure 6.
NexSens Technology, Inc. After installation, select “Start | All Programs | AirLink Communications | Wireless Ace 3G”. Click on the connect button, select PPP and select the COM port the A77 modem cable is connected to. Click OK and Wireless Ace will scan the selected COM port for a connected modem. NexSens 3100-iSIC modems communicate at “9600 baud (AT Escape)”. Once connected, click on the GPRS tab and look at the *NETAPN and +CGDCONT values.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1.4.5 Activating a Sprint iDEN 3100-iSIC Cellular Modem There is a single step in activating a Sprint iDEN modem. After a Sprint 3100-iSIC data logger is received it will need to be activated with the account information as detailed in this section. Connect the 3100-iSIC modem: 7. Connect the supplied A77 3100-iSIC modem programming cable to an open PC COM port and the modem cable as indicated in the picture on the following page. 8.
NexSens Technology, Inc. With iChart running, open without a project, and select Advanced | Terminal. Select the COM port the modem is connected to from the drop down menu, make sure the Connection is set to Direct connect and click Connect. Note: do NOT check the „use iSIC‟ checkbox. A white window will appear. To activate the modem: 1. Type „at‟ and make sure you see an „OK‟ displayed on the screen. 2. Next type AT*PROVISION=000000, 0123456789 3.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1.4.6 Troubleshooting Cellular Connection If you experience communication problems with a 3100-iSIC the first step is to make sure you can communicate to the modem itself. From the Start Menu in Windows, select Run. Then type “cmd”. Alternatively open the command prompt from Start | Program Files | Accessories | Command Prompt. Type the word “ping” followed by a space and then the IP address of the 3100-iSIC you are trying to communicate to.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Checking the modem indicator lights and modem power… If you can get physical access to the 3100-iSIC, underneath the iSIC mounting plate is an Airlink Raven modem. This modem has status lights that indicate if the modem has power, signal, etc. The light on the far right is the power light, indicating that the iSIC is powering the modem. If this is not on try cycling power to the iSIC by removing the two fuses and putting them back in.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1.4.7 Checking cellular modem signal strength To check the signal strength of a 3100-iSIC cellular modem you can use a program called Wireless Ace. This utility is available from the support section of the Airlink Communications website: www.airlink.com or on the 3100-iSIC Companion CD: http://www.nexsens.com/support/downloads.htm After installing Wireless Ace on your computer, run the program and click the Connect button. Enter the IP address of the modem and click OK.
NexSens Technology, Inc. If you are unable to connect to the modem using its IP address, connect your 3100-iSIC to your PC‟s serial port. Open the iSIC enclosure and connect the supplied A77 3100-iSIC Programming Cable to the iSIC‟s internal RS-232 cable as indicated in the picture below: Connect the other end of the 3100-iSIC Programming Cable to a free RS-232 serial port on your PC.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1.4.8 Directly connecting to a 3100-iSIC data logger To directly connect to a 3100-iSIC data logger, simply unplug the Cellular modem RS-232 cable from the iSIC data logger DB9 and plug in a RS-232 cable directly connected to your PC. If the 3100-iSIC is already setup in iChart, select it from the Navigation Panel and then right click and select Property. Change the Connect Through setting to Direct to PC.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2 Sensor Interface 2.1 RS232 In addition to the single RS232 port located externally on the iSIC via the MS8 connector, three RS232 ports are available on the internal Digital terminal strip. Ports 1, 2, and 3 are available for use. To connect your RS232 sensor to the iSIC, open the enclosure, unscrew the correct pins on the terminal strip, and attach the wires from your sensors cable to the connector.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.1.1 Troubleshooting RS232 Sensors Any NexSens iSIC data logger can “pass-through” telemetry and open a terminal directly to RS232 sensors. Sensors such as YSI sondes, or other ASCII communication devices can be directly accessed through this menu. In iChart, select “Advanced | Terminal”, and select the PC COM Port the data logger is currently connected to from the drop down menu. Next place a check in Use iSIC and select the iSIC model number from the Connection drop down menu.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.2 RS485 The NexSens iSIC supports RS485 communication, up to 57600 baud, between the data logger and a RS485 network. RS485 connections are available on the MS8 connector, located on the outside of iSIC enclosures. MS8 Connector: Using NexSens MS8 to flying lead cables: Green – RS485A Blue - RS485B Black - GND RS485 networks can connect to an RS485 iSIC using an RS485 MS8-Flying lead cable.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.2.1 Troubleshooting RS485 Sensors Any NexSens iSIC data logger can “pass-through” telemetry and open a terminal directly to RS485 sensors. RS485 sensors using ASCII communication devices can be directly accessed through this menu. In iChart, select Advanced | Terminal, and select the PC COM Port the data logger is currently connected to from the drop down menu. Next place a check in Use iSIC and select the iSIC model number from the Connection drop down menu.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.3 Modbus RTU NexSens iSIC data loggers support Modbus RTU sensors connected to a data logger via RS232 or RS485. Implementation: RS232 and RS485, baud rates 1200 to 57600 supported. Addresses from 1 to 247 are supported. Registers 0 to 65535 are supported. The software assumes each parameter is in sequential register order. When registers are not in sequential order, the modbus device can be added as multiple sensors.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.4 NMEA 0183 NexSens iSIC data loggers support NMEA 0183 sensors connected to a data logger via RS232. Implementation: RS232, baud rates 1200 to 57600 supported. Up to (3) messages per sensor can be configured (note: devices that output more than three messages can be logged as more than one sensor) Optional checksum: if a checksum is present in the NMEA message, the iSIC will use that checksum to determine if the message is valid.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.5 SDI-12 Connect SDI-12 sensors to the pin labeled „SDI-12‟ on the Digital terminal strip. A sample wiring diagram is below: Multiple SDI-12 Sensors can be wired to the same digital terminal strip. See the following page for more information. Up to ten SDI-12 devices can be connected to the SDI-12 pin on the iSIC Data logger. Any NexSens iSIC data logger can “pass-through” telemetry and allow SDI-12 commands to be sent directly to the sensor.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Multiple SDI-12 Sensors Because each sensor in a multiple SDI-12 system should share the same: SDI-12, GND, and BAT, it is recommended that those three pins be brought to a junction box where each wire is in a “multi-drop” network. This simply means that all the SDI-12 wires are connected, all the +12V wires are connected, and all the GND wires are connected together and wired to the appropriate pins on the iSIC.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.5.1 Changing SDI-12 Addresses Before multiple SDI-12 sensors can be used with a data logger they must each be configured to use a different address using SDI-12 commands. In iChart, go to the Advanced | iSIC | iSIC menu. The iSIC Setup dialog box will open: The first screen gives you the iSIC connection opens. Enter the COM port and connection method of the desired iSIC as well as the iSIC Address.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 1. First make sure the only SDI-12 sensor connected to the iSIC data logger is the SDI-12 sensor you want to change the address on. This is to avoid accidentally changing the wrong SDI-12 sensor or changing this sensor to an SDI-12 address that already exists. 2. Then send the “?!” command. The sensor will return n where n is a number 0-9 and represents the current address.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.5.2 Troubleshooting SDI-12 Sensors If SDI-12 data is displayed as -100000 in their native units it indicates that there is SDI-12 communication problem between the data logger and the SDI-12 sensor. In this situation, there are 3 possibilities. 1. Loose wiring between the logger and sensor 2. The sensor is not functioning correctly 3.
NexSens Technology, Inc. After connecting click on the SDI-12 tab and follow the steps to check sensor communication: 1. First make sure the only SDI-12 sensor connected to the iSIC data logger is the SDI-12 sensor you want to change the address on. This is to avoid accidentally changing the wrong SDI-12 sensor or changing this sensor to an SDI-12 address that already exists. 2. Then send the “?!” command. The sensor will return n where n is a number 0-9 and represents the current address.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.6 Analog Sensors 2.6.1 Voltage Sensors Environmental measurements can be determined by reading a simple voltage output from a sensor. The voltage level is proportional to the measurement parameter. Every NexSens iSIC ships standard with (8) analog channels. (8) additional analog channels can be added with a factory installed analog expansion. The iSIC can measure voltages up to 2.5V (ie 0-1V, 0-2.5V, 0-custom voltage).
NexSens Technology, Inc. Differential (Isolated) Voltage Sensors Connect differential analog mV input devices to the analog terminal strip. A diagram of this is shown below: Pins AD0 through AD7 can all be used for connecting differential analog mV sensors. sensors can be connected at the same time using these pins on the analog terminal strip. Four When using differential sensors, connect each pair to the analog pin pair (ie: AD0/AD1, AD2/AD3, etc) and the positive voltage wire to the first AD pin.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Loop Powered Voltage Sensors Connect loop powered voltage sensors to the internal digital analog terminal strip. A diagram of this is shown below: Pins AD0 through AD7 can all be used for connecting voltage sensors. Eight loop powered voltage sensors can be connected at the same time using these pins on the analog terminal strip. Note: GND and AGND are wired together because loop powered sensors require both digital and analog signals.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.6.2 4-20 mA Sensors Single-Ended (Non-Isolated) 4-20mA Sensors Connect single-ended 4-20 mA sensors to the internal analog terminal strip. A diagram of this is shown below: Pins AD0 through AD7 can all be used for connecting 4-20 mA sensors. Eight 4-20 mA sensors can be connected at the same time using these pins on the analog terminal strip. It is necessary for a sense resistor to be added into the wiring for each sensor to convert the current signal into a voltage signal.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Differential (Isolated) 4-20mA Sensors Connect differential 4-20 mA sensors to the internal analog terminal strip. A diagram of this is shown below: Pins AD0 through AD7 can all be used for connecting 4-20 mA sensors. Four 4-20 mA sensors can be connected at the same time using these pins on the analog terminal strip. It is necessary for a sense resistor to be added into the wiring for each sensor to convert the current signal into a voltage signal.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Loop Powered 4-20mA Sensors Connect loop powered 4-20 mA sensors to the internal digital analog terminal strip. A diagram of this is shown below: Pins AD0 through AD7 can all be used for connecting 4-20 mA sensors. Eight loop powered 4-20 mA sensors can be connected at the same time using these pins on the analog terminal strip. It is necessary for a sense resistor to be added into the wiring for each sensor to convert the current signal into a voltage signal.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.6.3 Troubleshooting Analog Sensors In iChart, go to the Advanced | iSIC | iSIC menu. The iSIC Setup dialog box will open: The first screen gives you the iSIC connection opens. Enter the COM port and connection method of the desired iSIC as well as the iSIC Address. For example, if you are trying to connect to a 2100-iSIC with a modem connected to COM3, select 2100-iSIC from the connection drop down menu, and COM3 from the COM port menu.
NexSens Technology, Inc. The importance of being able to turn on the SW12VA is that many analog sensors use the SW12VA as their power supply. This check box must be checked in order for the sensors to work properly. When troubleshooting invalid readings from an analog sensor the first step should be to determine if the sensor is outputting the correct voltage reading.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.7 Thermistors A thermistor can be connected to the iSIC through the analog terminal strip. Follow the connection diagram below to properly connect your thermistor. The iSIC utilizes the SteinhartHart equation for calculating temperature. A single resistor across AGND and the analog input pin should be used to complete the equation. The resistor size should be around the same size as the thermistor resistance at 25 C. For example, a 10K Thermistor could use a 12.4K resistor.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.8 Tipping Bucket Rain Gauge A tipping bucket rain gauge can be connected to the iSIC through the digital terminal strip. Follow the connection diagram below to properly connect your rain gauge. One rain gauge may be connected to the iSIC at a time.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.8.1 Advanced Pulse Counter Options When testing a pulse counter functionality, it is sometimes required to view and reset the current number of „tips‟ on the pulse counter. For example, with tipping bucket rain gauges, to ensure accuracy the best method is to pour x amount of water through the bucket to make sure it records x number of tips based on how much water equals a single tip. To do this in iChart go to the Advanced | iSIC | iSIC menu.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.9 Digital Input\Output Digital I/O uses a voltage signal to represent either a one or a zero. A “0” typically ranges from 0 volts to 0.8 volts while a “1” will range from 2.4 volts to 5 volts. These ranges are defined in the TTL (Transistor-Transistor Logic) specification. Environmental data loggers can use digital I/O ports for a variety of applications. A digital output from a data logger may be used to control a relay that turns on a light, alarm, or activates a pump.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.9.1 Advanced DIO Options When testing DIO functionality, it is sometimes required to view the current state or change the state of a DIO. For example, when connecting an auto sampler it is recommended to manually pulse the signal to make sure all of the wiring is correct, and the sampler will activate when a control output condition occurs. To do this in iChart go to the Advanced | iSIC | iSIC menu.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.10 Data Logger Connections 2.10.1 MS8 Connector Wiring On the outside of the iSIC enclosure is an MS8 connector which is used for sensor wiring. This connector allows for quick connection for instruments such as YSI Sondes, which has a mating MS8 connector at the end of its cable. Additionally, this connector can be used to bring out sensor signals that are not otherwise available on the green terminal strips. Contact NexSens for information on MS8 to flying lead cables.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 2.10.2 DB9 Connector Wiring In the center of every iSIC data logger, between the analog and digital terminal strips, a DB9 connector for RS232 connection is available. This is the primary connection for iSIC data loggers and allows a PC to connect directly to the iSIC. Every iSIC includes an A72 iSIC communication cable which allows for connecting an iSIC directly to the PC.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3 iChart Setup and Operation 3.1 iChart Software and iSIC Firmware Updates NexSens periodically releases new versions of iChart software and iSIC firmware to be downloaded free of charge. The updated versions typically add new features, improve existing features, and/or add more reliability to the system. It is important that iChart is updated to the latest version before connecting a new sensor to your iSIC data logger.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.2 Setup Device Wizard The following guide explains the process of creating a new iChart database and adding devices to it. No programming is required to add devices to the database. All setup is done through a series of easy-to-use dialog boxes. Instructions for setting up specific sensors can be found at: http://www.nexsens.com/support/user_manuals.htm To add the device to an existing database, select Project | Setup Device Wizard.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.2.2 Step 2 – Data Logger & Telemetry The next step is to add the data logger(s) to the sites created in the previous step. Select a site to add a data logger to. Then select the data logger model number from the list at right and click Add. The iSIC Data Logger Communication Properties dialog box will appear. Enter the required iSIC data logger connection information (see below for model-specific instructions) to finish adding the data logger to the selected site.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.2.3 Step 3 – Sensor Setup After selecting a data logger, click Next and select the sensor manufacturer from the drop-down list of manufacturers. Then select the model number associated with your device and click Add. If the sensor you are adding is not in the list, select Generic as the manufacturer and click on the sensor type. The Sensor Properties dialog box will come on the screen. Fill in the required sensor information.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Click OK and the sensor will be added to the selected data logger. More sensors can be added at this time by selecting the sensor manufacturer and then sensor model number from the drop down menu on the right. Click Next when finished adding sensors. 3.2.4 Step 4 – Output After clicking Next on the Sensor tab, the Input/Output tab can be used to enable or disable any output and control features of the data logger.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.2.5 Step 5 – Log Select each data logger from the site list and enter the desired Log Interval and Sample Interval for the data logger in the Interval section. In the Log Value section, select how the data logger should log data points. Log Mode The Log Mode controls when data is logged by an iSIC. In Time-base (the default and most common), data is logged at a specified interval, controlled in the Time-base section.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.2.6 Step 6 – Finish All data loggers and sensors must be programmed before data collection can begin. Select an iSIC data logger and click the „Program iSIC‟ button. Before programming an iSIC: o The iSIC must be powered and connected to the computer. o The 2100-iSIC must be powered and connected to a phone line. o The 3100-iSIC must be powered and have a cellular data account.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.3 Retrieving Data From Sensors 3.3.1 Manually Interrogating Data Data is retrieved by the process of “interrogating” each sensor in the iChart database. Sensor data may be downloaded manually by clicking the Interrogate button, or users can configure an automatic “interrogation schedule” through iChart. By default a one hour automatic interrogation schedule is set. This means that at the beginning of every hour, iChart will automatically interrogate every sensor in the database.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.3.2 Automatically Interrogating Data iChart can be configured to automatically interrogate devices and retrieve data on a user-defined schedule. Set an Interrogation Schedule by clicking the Schedule button on the main instrument control screen. iChart will interrogate the device on the days indicated. Place a check in the box for the days you wish to retrieve data. To interrogate the sensor every day of the week, select each box as shown in the screenshot.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.4 Changing iSIC Configuration and Setup 3.4.1 iSIC Configuration and Setup After a project has been setup, there are two ways to change the configuration and setup. To add new project information, select Project | Setup Device Wizard from the iChart menu. This will open the iChart wizard to add new project information. To change existing sensors and data logger configuration, right click on the data logger or sensor in the navigation panel and select Property.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.4.2 iSIC Power Management By default, all iSIC‟s are set to continuously power telemetry such as a spread spectrum radio or cellular modem. However, in battery powered applications where limited solar charging is available or the current consumption of sensors is high then it may be advisable to use a power schedule. Power schedule allows you to set when the iSIC telemetry will be powered on, and when it will be powered off.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.5 Scheduling The main instrument control screen allows you to configure automatic scheduling. 3.5.1 Automatic Interrogation Schedule iChart can be configured to automatically interrogate devices and retrieve data on a user-defined schedule. Set an Interrogation Schedule by clicking the Schedule button on the main instrument control screen. iChart will interrogate the device on the days indicated. Place a check in the box for the days you wish to retrieve data.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Note: During some situations it may be necessary to prevent iChart from automatically interrogating devices in the iChart database. Interrogation can be paused by selecting the Pause Auto-Interrogation command from the Project menu. Resume automatic data retrieval by selecting the Unpause Auto-Interrogation command. 3.5.2 Sync iSIC Real Time Clock to PC Schedule The Sync RTC Schedule is the interval iChart will automatically sync the iSIC clock with the PC clock.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.6 Alerts and Alarms iChart software allows several kinds of alerts and alarms to be setup and used with iSIC data loggers: 1. iChart Alarms: these alarms are used to notify persons via SMS text messaging or email of parameters exceeding pre-defined parameter limits. iChart sends the alarm when it receives data from a data logger. 2. Control Outputs: these alarms are used to control devices via 5V DIO or 12V switches.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.6.1 iChart Alarms iChart software allows you to create alarms when certain parameters go above or below a designated value. For example, let‟s say you are in charge of monitoring the water quality at a fish farm. Why not have iChart send you a text message on your cell phone if the dissolved oxygen gets too close to critical levels. Using alarms allow you to be warned immediately when a situation is about to occur. iChart allows you to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
NexSens Technology, Inc. The Define Alert/Alarm dialog box sets up a single alarm condition. To add multiple alarm conditions, add them one at a time by click the Add button on the main alarm screen. The Enable button enables the alarm. If you would like to stop an alarm from occurring during a period of time that you know a problem will arise, simply uncheck the Enable box. All the alarm information will still be saved.
NexSens Technology, Inc. A window will appear that allows you to select the type of alarm you would like to use. Click on the drop down menu and select one of the following alarms. After you have set up the alarm action you can go back and setup the second alarm or Acknowledging an Alarm When ever an alarm triggers, an Alarm Toolbar will be displayed. This tool bar allows you to acknowledge the alarm, and stop it from carrying out until the reset point is reached.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Play a specified .wav file Selecting Play wave file will continuously play the specified wave file until the alarm is acknowledged. Specify the wave file by clicking the „…‟ located to the far right of the Wave File field. For your convenience, a few wave files are located in: C:\Program Files\NexSens\iChart5\System Simply select one of the .wav files that you like. You can test these file before hand or download your own alarm from the internet.
NexSens Technology, Inc. value has been reached. Send a text message to a cell phone Selecting Send SMS message sends a text message to the cell phone number designated in the Phone number field. The text message is the text set in the Message field. A new text message will not be sent on alarm until the reset value has been reached. Note: text messaging must be enabled by NexSens Technology before use.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.6.2 Control Outputs Parameter alarms configured on the iSIC data logger allow you to setup and configure controls to do things such as flash warning lights, trigger ISCO samplers, etc. The iSIC allows two kinds of control, 5V digital I/O and 12V 100mA switches. On the Input/Output tab of the Setup Device Wizard iSIC alarm controls can be setup. Select the data logger you would like to configure and click the Add button under Control Output.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Click the Add… button to open the iSIC Control Output Condition dialog box. A control condition is checked by the data logger every sample interval. To setup a condition: 1. Pick a parameter from the drop down list 2. Select a parameter condition (such as greater than or less than) as well as a parameter value and count (see below). The Count is the number of times the condition has to occur before the alarm actions will occur. The count is based on the data logger sample interval.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.6.3 iSIC Alarms iSIC alarms are used to change the functionality of the data logger based on parameter inputs, such as changing sample and log intervals based on a particular logged reading. To enable an iSIC Alarm: 1. Click the Setup button and go to the iSIC Alarm tab. 2. Place a check in the Enable iSIC Alarm checkbox. 3. Click Add to enable an alarm condition, such as level above 0.20 feet as shown below. See the description of count in the page above. 4.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.6.4 Monitoring Critical Projects Due to the nature of many environmental projects, immediate notification of failures is a necessity for many project managers. The iChart System Monitor allows a project manager to receive critical messages such as failure to retrieve data or upload data online.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.7 Filtering Data iChart software allows data to be filtered before it is saved into the database. Note that this data is filtered before it is put into the iChart database and will therefore not be able to be retrieved. The advantage of using this kind of filter is to limit what data is sent to an ODBC connection or WQData website. Data can be filtered in reports, post processing, after the data has been saved into the database.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 3.8 What an IT Administrator Needs to Know For most, if not all networks and computers, there should not be any problems running NexSens software or hardware. NexSens uses ports and protocols that are generally NOT considered to be a security risk. For iChart software: iChart software is the main software tool used to communicate with data loggers and sensors.
NexSens Technology, Inc. For Email alarms: iChart can be configured to use either SMTP or MAPI for email alarming. For SMTP, iChart will need to know the SMTP server address, server port, the username and password for an email account on the server as well as the authentication type. For SMS messaging: iChart can be configured to use SMS messaging for parameter alarms. For SMS messaging, iChart uses an HTTP API and uses the default web port (typically 80) of the PC to send the messages.
NexSens Technology, Inc. A55 Features: iSIC User‟s Manual 16" x 8" x 1/4" aluminum plate 2 each U-bolts 2 each 5/16 x 2 lag screws; 4 each 1/420 x 3/4 flat head screw Mounting: If you will be mounting the iSIC to a wall or other flat surface, simply use the lag screws to securely mount the A55 to the surface. The A55 can be mounted to concrete structures using a drill.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 4.2 Grounding Protection Electronic circuits are susceptible to voltage surges. The iSIC has on-board transient voltage suppression devices. Connect the ground lug to a proper electrical ground (i.e. earth ground or a properly grounded pipe/metal fixture). For outdoor applications, use the copper wire supplied with the A38 ground kit to connect the ground lug to the rod‟s ground clamp. The rod should be driven into the ground as deep as possible and located near the equipment.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 4.3 Powering the iSIC The NexSens iSIC is powered from an internal battery. The addition of a float charger or solar panel can provide constant re-charging of the battery for prolonged use scenarios. Before data can be retrieved from your sensors, power must be supplied to the iSIC. To do so, open the iSIC enclosure and unscrew the battery mounting plate. Next, lay the battery sideways against the iSIC plate as shown in the picture below.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 4.3.1 AC Chargers AC Float chargers provide constant charging of the iSIC battery. It connects to an electrical outlet near the data logger and provides constant battery life for high power consumption sensors. If an electrical outlet is located near the iSIC data logger, it is recommended that a float charger be used. For outdoor use, a power outlet cover can be purchased to protect the charger from rain and other related weather wear and tear.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 4.3.2 Solar Panels Solar panels are used in remote applications where AC power is inaccessible. Photovoltaic cells form the body of a solar panel or module. These cells transform the sun‟s rays into useable electric energy. A solar panel is typically installed for charging the internal battery. Warning: Do not connect third party solar panels without solar regulators as unregulated power can spike and cause damage to the iSIC and sensors connected to it.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 4.4 Stainless Steel Enclosures AVSS241608 Stainless Steel Enclosure: The stainless steel enclosure (Part # AVSS241608) is ideal for NexSens iSIC Data Loggers installed in harsh environments or vandal-prone areas. This enclosure may also be used to house the NexSens 26 A-Hr battery (Part # A03) for projects with power-hungry sensors and heavy cloud coverage.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 4.5 Antennas The Nexsens 3100-iSIC uses a single, high gain antenna for all deployments. The antenna requires a mounting pole and a RF cable with N-style connectors; It is recommended that the mounting pole have a diameter up to 2-1/2 inches and have a height as high as practical for your application; also use a cable length that appropriately fits the mounting pole.
NexSens Technology, Inc. High Gain Antenna The A49 High Gain antenna transmits and receives at all frequencies supported by the 3100iSIC, which means it works on Verizon, Cingular/AT&T, as well as Sprint/NexTel networks. To mount the A49 antenna: 1) screw the antenna onto the L-bracket mount (supplied with antenna); 2) attach the assembly to the mounting pole using hose clamps (supplied with antenna).
NexSens Technology, Inc. 5 Maintenance Enclosure Vent The NexSens iSIC is equipped with an enclosure vent. This vent is made of Gortex material that allows air to pass and keeps moisture out. The enclosure pressure is always at equilibrium with the atmosphere. Be sure to keep this vent free of debris. Replace the enclosure vent (NexSens Part #A70), located on the bottom of the iSIC, whenever it becomes dirty and clogged. Desiccant The iSIC Data logger ships with 5 pouches of desiccant.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 6 Advanced Diagnostics Tools iChart includes advanced tools to view, diagnose and check sensor and data logger functionality. To access these tools select Advanced | iSIC | iSIC from the iChart menu system. The iSIC Setup dialog box will open: On the first screen select the COM port, connection method, and address of the desired data logger.
NexSens Technology, Inc. iSIC Data Logger: The general tab allows you to see basic iSIC information such as the iSIC time, battery voltage, and firmware version as well as much more. Most items can be updated by putting a check in the box next to them and, if needed, entering new information. Click Apply for the readings to take effect. Sync to PC time: Check this box if you notice that the iSIC Time is not the same as your computer clock Change address: Changes the iSIC address.
NexSens Technology, Inc. Logging: The Logging tab allows you to view the memory capacity, memory page structure, amount of memory used, data record size, and display an estimate of the amount of time left before the memory is full. Erase logging memory: Usually does not need to be done unless you do not want old data uploaded into a new iChart database. By default the iSIC will store the last 150,000 readings.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 7 Appendix 7.1 Appendix A: Safety The Federal Communications Commission defines this product as a computing device and requires the following notice. This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and if not installed and used properly, may cause interference to radio and television reception.
NexSens Technology, Inc. 7.3 Appendix C: Warranty and Service NexSens Technology, Inc. warrants the instruments it manufactures against defects in materials or workmanship for a period of 1 year from the date of delivery to the original customer. This warranty is limited to the replacement or repair of such defects, without charge, when the instrument is returned to NexSens Technology, Inc.
