Customizing the CB-75 Data Buoy
The NexSens CB-75 data buoy is a compact, affordable, and easy-to-deploy platform that is available both as a turnkey system and a customizable solution with user-preferred power supplies, electronics, sensors, accessories and mounting hardware.
The CB-75 comes in two options
- CB-75 (includes three 4-watt solar panels)
- CB-75A (no solar panels)
Buoyancy, Freeboard, and Stability
The CB-75’s compact design makes it ideal for smaller-scale monitoring projects, offering an easy-to-deploy solution.
However, it is important to consider buoyancy, freeboard, and stability when customizing the system. The CB-75 weighs 37 lb. (16.78kg); 49 lb. (22.23kg) with the X3-SUB, and offers 88 lb. (39.93kg) of net buoyancy. See dimensional drawings below.
If greater buoyancy, freeboard, or stability are needed, consider upgrading to the XB-200 or one of the larger CB-series buoys.
Power Supply
The battery well is designed to fit the NexSens X3-SUB data logger, which powers the system and enables real-time data collection.
For third-party electronics, the MC-SUB submersible housing offers a convenient solution. The unit features industry-standard MCBH/MCIL connectors and a solar port.
The MC-SUB includes two battery options:
- BAT-A04 (Used with CB-75) – Can be solar charged or recharged using the CB-Series Battery Float Charger Kit and adapter.
- BAT-20D (Used with CB-75A) – Cannot be recharged and requires battery replacement.
MC-SUB Lid Removal
The MC-SUB will arrive pre-installed if ordered at the same time. The lid will need to be removed to connect electronics.
- Remove the solar tower lid and the connecting hardware.
- Disconnect the solar tower.
- Remove all of the screws around the perimeter of the MC-SUB.
Wiring
The port plugs can be removed for user-supplied electronics.
For the solar connector, see wiring below.
- The free red (+++) and black (—) wires are for power and ground connection to an external device.
- For connection with a NexSens solar tower:
- The solar tower plug is connected to both black wires (ground) and the single yellow wire (power).
- The orange wire and the red flying lead wire are shorted together.
Topside Equipment
The solar tower top plate is made of marine-grade high-density polyethylene, facilitating the mounting of sensors, navigation beacons, masts, and antennae.
Subsurface Measurements
Water quality sensors, temperature strings, and other sensors can be mounted below the buoy.
Buoy Accessories
| Part | Compatible Systems |
| X3-SUB Submersible Data Logger | Self-powered remote data logging and telemetry system |
| M550 Solar Marine Light | 1-3 nautical mile range visibility. |
| Zinc Anode | Protects the CB-75 instrument cage from saltwater corrosion. |