Knowledge Base

MC-BAT Cage User Guide


The MC-BAT is a submersible 15V battery pack designed to power underwater instrumentation and sensors. Inside are (20) D-Cell alkaline batteries. It is constructed of 316 stainless steel and includes an 8-pin male MCBH marine connector.

Illustration of the MC-BAT.

Sensor/Logger Connection

For connection to the MC-BAT:

1. Remove the blank plug from the middle power port

Removing the blank plug from the middle power port.

2. Apply a thin layer of silicon-based lubricant to the rubber portion of the power connector and plug in the power cable.

Applying a thin layer of silicon-based lubricant to the rubber portion of the power connector and plug in the power cable.

3. Secure the cable to the mounting and ensure there is no strain on the connector.

 

Check Battery Voltage

Before and after deployments, use a voltmeter to confirm the battery voltage is adequate to power the connected device. New battery packs will measure at ~16V and will need to be replaced when it drops below 10V. Long deployments may require replacing a partially spent pack. See the Battery Replacement section for directions.

1. Measure the voltage across pin 5 and pin 2.

Close-up of the connector pins with arrows to pins 2 and 5. 2 is labeled the ground and 5 is labeled as the positive.

 

Saltwater Deployment

Sacrificial zinc anodes should be used whenever the MC-BAT is deployed in a saltwater environment to prevent corrosion. Cage anodes are ordered separately and should be inspected and replaced as needed.

When paired with a NexSens stainless steel instrument cage, ensure there is good metal-to-metal contact between the MC-BAT and the cage so that the anode offers protection.

1. Attach the zinc anode to the instrument cage.

Installation of a sacrificial zinc anode to a NexSens instrument cage. On-image callouts highlight the importance of metal-to-metal contact for proper corrosion prevention.

If deploying an MC-BAT without a cage, source the appropriate anode for your application.

 

Desiccant Replacement

Desiccant is used to absorb moisture and should be replaced annually or anytime the well is opened.

1. Remove the logger lid with care and disconnect the power cable.

The MC-BAT's lid being removed by unscrewing the six screws and flat washers on top and unplugging the battery pack.

2. Replace the desiccant.

A desiccant pack being placed inside the opened MC-BAT.

3. Check that the gasket is clean and undamaged, and reconnect the battery.

4. Reinstall the lid, being careful to avoid trapping the cable under. If the o-ring lubricant is no longer in place, apply a thin film.

Reapplying silicone-based grease to the O-ring seal of the MC-BAT.

 

Battery Replacement

The battery pack should be replaced whenever voltage falls below 10V or when a partially spent pack is inadequate for a long deployment. Alkaline batteries are not rechargeable.

1. Remove the logger lid with care and disconnect the power cable.

The MC-BAT's lid being removed by unscrewing the six screws and flat washers on top and unplugging the battery pack.

2. Unscrew the bracket holding the battery pack in place.

Overhead view of the MC-BAT with the battery pack and bracket exposed. Orange call-outs show removing the bolts holding the gray bracket in place, followed by removing the bracket to access the battery.

3. Remove the old batteries.

4. Lower the new batteries into the well and secure with the previously removed hardware.

(Left) Lowering the battery and gray bracket back into the MC-BAT. (Right) Securing the bracket and battery using two bolts.

5. Reinstall the lid.