X3 Resource Library

Knowledge Base

X3 Data Logger User Guide


Overview

The NexSens X3 Environmental Data Logger connects sensors to WQData LIVE through 4G cellular, Iridium satellite, or WiFi. It features the industry’s largest multi-vendor sensor library and easy plug-in sensors.

The NexSens X3 Environmental Data Logger connects sensors to WQData LIVE through 4G cellular, Iridium satellite, or WiFi.

 

What’s in the Box?

  • (1) X3 Environmental Data Logger
  • (1) Grounding kit
  • (1) Small buoy mounting kit
  • (1) Large buoy mounting kit
  • (3) Sensor port plugs, spare o-rings
  • (1) Power port plug, spare o-ring
  • (1) O-ring grease
  • (1) Antenna (for cellular and Iridium telemetry); (2) Antennas (for cellular with Iridium fallback)

NexSens X3 Data Logger: What's included.

Mechanical

The X3 is a rugged data logging platform built for extreme environments and easy deployment. Fabricated from marine-grade aluminum, the housing is anodized to MIL specifications for superior resistance to corrosion, abrasion, and wear. It operates from -40°C to 70°C, withstands temporary 1-meter submersion, and features o-ring and epoxy-sealed ports.

Dimensional drawings available online.

Drawings icon.

 

Electrical

The X3 can be powered with any 10.7 to 16.8 VDC supply. It includes reverse polarity protection, reverse current protection, and over current protection.

With a quiescent current of 450 uA, the data logger can work with 12VDC batteries, solar power systems, and AC power adaptors via the UW6 power cable.

A low active current of 55mA with telemetry transmissions ranging from 100mA (WiFi) to 300mA (cellular) provides efficiency for smart power management strategies.

Electrical specifications available online.

Datasheet icon.

 

Connections

Three sensor interface ports (P0, P1, P2) and a power/communication port are available on the bottom of the X3.

NexSens X3 data logger sensor port power types labeled.

Continuous – Power is applied continuously. Ideal for weather stations, wave sensors, and ADCPs

Switch – Power is applied only when the sample interval is scheduled. Ideal for water quality sondes, temperature strings, and level sensors.

 

Sensor Port Pinout

Pinout for the NexSens X3 Data Logger's sensor port.

Power/COM Port Pinout

Pinout for the NexSens X3 Data Logger's POWER/COM port.

 

Antennas

Sealed SMA antenna ports are preinstalled when ordered with cellular and/or Iridium telemetry. The Wi-Fi antenna is internal.

Each telemetry type will have a unique setup protocol. Use the links below to navigate to each guide.

  • Wi-Fi
  • Cellular
  • Iridum
  • Cellular with Iridium fallback

NexSens X3 data logger with antenna port types labeled.

Featured Image Helical Iridium Certified Passive Antenna
Cellular antenna specifications Iridium antenna specifications

 

Beep Indicators

Once plugged in, the X3 data logger will start to beep. Each Beep Type coincides with a specific event–see the table below for reference.

Beep chart for the NexSens X3 data logger.

Operation

Sensor Interface

The X3 supports sensors with the following interfaces: SDI-12, RS-485, and RS-232. Additionally, the logger is compatible with tipping bucket rain gauge inputs. Sensors can be plugged into any of the ports, regardless of communication protocol.

 

CONNECT Software

CONNECT Software is the direct connect method to communicate with the X3. Users can easily add sensor profiles, set intervals, read/upload measurements, and set up telemetry. The software also includes tools for troubleshooting.

 

Sensor Library

The preloaded sensor library is located in CONNECT Software and WQData LIVE. The library includes sensors that are compatible with the X3 data logger, with a pre-set sensor profile that can be adjusted as needed for each project.

The library contains hundreds of sensors from leading manufacturers:

Aandera In-Situ Sequoia Scientific
Airmar Intellect Water Shark Marine
AML OceanographicINW SonTek
APG Li-Cor Sporian Microsystems
Campbell Lufft Stevens Water
Design Analysis NexSens Teledyne RDI
EchoLogger Observator Trimble
Eureka OTT TriOS
FloWav Ponsel Tritech
FTS Proteus Instruments Turner Designs
Garmin RM Young Vaisala
Geolux s::can Van Essen Instruments
Gill Instruments Satlantic VEGA
Global Water Sea-Bird WaterLOG
Greyline Seametrics WET Labs
Hach Senix YSI
Hydrolab Sentek And many more…

Don’t see a manufacturer? Contact a systems specialist for support.

 

WQData LIVE

WQData LIVE is the secure cloud datacenter for easily accessing the data from the X3. The interface allows for remote troubleshooting and configuration of the X3 data logger.

Users can access interactive tools to view and share data, set up custom dashboards for data viewing, create alarms, and generate reports.

Note: The X3 collects data in UTC, and the local timezone can be adjusted in your WQData LIVE account. 

 

WQData LIVE Setup

Before connecting any sensors to the logger, set up the project in WQData LIVE.

  1. Sign in or create a WQData LIVE account.
    Sign in or create a WQData LIVE account.
  2. Hover over the email in the upper right-hand corner of the page and select PROJECTS from the drop-down menu.
    Select PROJECTS from the drop-down menu
  3. Click Create New Project and complete the project setup.
    Create New Project interface in WQData LIVE.
  4. Go to ADMIN | Settings and create a site.
    Admin | Settings.Create a Site.
  5. Once the site is created, enter the device’s claim code (found in the shipping documents) and then save.

 

Telemetry

After completing project setup in WQData LIVE, follow the instructions below to enable telemetry communications.

 

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi telemetry comes standard on all NexSens X3 data loggers and can be used as the primary telemetry option in areas with internet access. The X3 wifi is 2.4GHz b/g/n and supports WPA2 and WPA3 Personal.

  • Supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks (802.11 b/g/n)
  • Compatible security types:
    • WPA2 Personal
    • WPA3 Personal
    • Open (unencrypted networks)

Note (Open Networks): When connecting to an Open Network, CONNECT software requires a value in the password field to save the configuration. Enter a placeholder value (e.g., 12345678). Open Networks do not use a password, and the entered value will not affect connectivity.

Recommendation: For best security and reliability, use WPA3 Personal (preferred) or WPA2 Personal networks whenever possible.

NexSens X3 Data Logger with Wi-Fi telemetry.

Connecting to Wi-Fi

  1. Connect the X3 logger to a PC and launch CONNECT software.
  2. Navigate to Tool | Communication | Wifi within CONNECT.
    Navigate to Tool | Communication | Wifi within CONNECT.
  3. Select the Scan option at the bottom of the Wi-Fi interface, and a list of available networks will populate.
    Select the Scan option at the bottom of the Wi-Fi interface, and a list of available networks will populate.

    1. The Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) refers to the signal strength of the specific network.
      1. -65 to -70: Provides a reliable connection.
      2. -71 to -79: Minimum level for a reliable connection.
      3. -80 to -84: May result in intermittent connectivity.
      4. -85 to -89: Absolute minimum to get connections periodically.
      5. -90 or lower: Unreliable signal.
  4. Note the SSID of the network you would like to connect to.
  5. Select Read from X3 to view the current Wi-Fi configuration. For new loggers, check the Enable Wifi option and enter the network’s SSID and Password. Then select Save to X3.
    Select Read from X3 to view the current Wi-Fi configuration. For new loggers, check the Enable Wifi option and enter the network's SSID and Password. Then select Save to X3.
  6. A confirmation message will appear once the network has been saved.

Confirm Connection

  1. Test Wi-Fi connectivity by selecting Connect Wifi at the top of the interface.
    1. A successful connection will show the Wi-Fi connection characteristics (i.e., IP address, Subnet Mask, Gateway, Preferred DNS, and Alternate DNS) and display Current wifi connection: connected.
      Test Wi-Fi connectivity by selecting Connect Wifi at the top of the interface.
  2. Select Test WQDataLive Connection to confirm the device can communicate with WQData LIVE. A prompt will display for a successful connection.
    Select Test WQDataLive Connection to confirm the device can communicate with WQData LIVE. A prompt will display for a successful connection.

Add Sensors in CONNECT Software

Using the appropriate integration guides for your sensor suite, complete the system setup in CONNECT.

 

Cellular

Cellular plans for the X3 data logger can be provided and managed by NexSens Technology or through a separate provider. If the cellular plan was purchased through NexSens, the logger will arrive already set up for transmissions. Skip ahead to Add Sensors in CONNECT.

If using a different cellular provider, users will need to complete additional steps during setup. Contact NexSens support for help.
NexSens X3 Data Logger with Cellular telemetry.

Add Sensors in CONNECT Software

Using the appropriate integration guides for your sensor suite, complete the system setup in CONNECT.

 

Iridium

Iridium data plans for the X3 data logger can be provided and managed by NexSens Technology or through a separate provider. If the plan was purchased through NexSens, the logger will arrive already set up for transmissions. Skip ahead to Add Sensors in CONNECT.

If using a different Iridium provider, users will need to complete additional steps during setup. Contact NexSens support for help.

NexSens X3 Data Logger with Iridium telemetry.

Add Sensors in CONNECT Software

Using the appropriate integration guides for your sensor suite, complete the system setup in CONNECT.

Set Transmit Flags

Transmit flags control the amount of data transmitted to WQData LIVE. It is important to review your iridium plan to ensure the data size does not exceed the allowable limit.

  1. Open WQData LIVE and navigate to the ADMIN | Settings tab at the top of the dashboard.
    Open WQData LIVE and navigate to the ADMIN | Settings tab at the top of the dashboard.
  2. Click on the Advanced Device Remote Configuration drop-down menu and choose the logger.
    Click on the Advanced Device Remote Configuration drop-down menu and choose the logger.
  3. Enter code “nexsens” when prompted.
    Enter code "nexsens" when prompted.
  4. Open the Transmit Flag dropdown.
    Open the Transmit Flag dropdown.
  5. Enable the desired parameters.
    Enable the desired parameters.
  6. Once complete, select Save.

Send Binary Format Command

  1. In the Advanced Device Configuration, click UPDATE under the Update Binary Format section.
    In the Advanced Device Configuration, click UPDATE under the Update Binary Format section.
  2. A prompt should display showing that the command was sent successfully.
    A prompt should display showing that the command was sent successfully.
  3. After the command is sent, three full transmission intervals will occur before data is pushed to the web.

 

Iridium with Cellular Fallback

The X3-4G-IR defaults to 4G cellular and falls back to Iridium satellite when cellular service is not available. This ensures continuous data transmission when coverage is spotty or when equipment is moved in and out of coverage.

NexSens Iridium X3 Data Logger with Cellular Fallback.

Complete Cellular and Iridium Setup

If the data plan(s) were purchased through NexSens, the X3-4G-IR will arrive already set up. Skip ahead to Add Sensors in CONNECT.

If using a different provider, users will need to complete additional steps during setup. Contact NexSens support for help.

Add Sensors in CONNECT Software

Using the appropriate integration guides for your sensor suite, complete the system setup in CONNECT.

Set Transmit Flags

Transmit flags control the amount of data transmitted to WQData LIVE. It is important to review your iridium plan to ensure the data size does not exceed the allowable limit.

  1. Open WQData LIVE and navigate to the ADMIN | Settings tab at the top of the dashboard.
    Open WQData LIVE and navigate to the ADMIN | Settings tab at the top of the dashboard.
  2. Click on the Advanced Device Remote Configuration drop-down menu and choose the logger.
    Click on the Advanced Device Remote Configuration drop-down menu and choose the logger.
  3. Enter code “nexsens” when prompted.
    Enter code "nexsens" when prompted.
  4. Open the Transmit Flag dropdown.
    Open the Transmit Flag dropdown.
  5. Enable the desired parameters.
    Enable the desired parameters.
  6. Once complete, select Save.

Send Binary Format Command

  1. In the Advanced Device Configuration, click UPDATE under the Update Binary Format section.
    In the Advanced Device Configuration, click UPDATE under the Update Binary Format section.
  2. A prompt should display showing that the command was sent successfully.
    A prompt should display showing that the command was sent successfully.
  3. After the command is sent, three full transmission intervals will occur before data is pushed to the web.

 

Field Installation

Mounting

The X3 can be mounted from its top with four threaded holes or from the bottom with any of the three threaded holes. The PM2 mount kit facilitates mounting to masts, poles and walls.

  1. Secure the mounting kit to a pole using the included hardware.
    Secure the mounting kit to a pole using the included hardware.
  2. Attach the logger.
    Attach the logger.
  3. Install the antenna in the correctly labeled port (i.e., CELL or SAT).
    Install the antenna in the correctly labeled port (i.e., CELL or SAT).
  4. Ensure the cellular antenna’s O-ring is seated correctly, and the antenna is making solid contact with it.
    For data buoys, view the appropriate User Guide in the Knowledge Base for mounting instructions.

For data buoys, view the appropriate User Guide in the Knowledge Base for mounting instructions.

 

Grounding

Grounding the X3 helps prevent damage from voltage surges, electrical lines, lightning strikes, or electrostatic discharge (ESD).

Grounding in Land Applications

A grounding kit is included with each X-Series data logger. Always follow the guidelines of the National Electrical Code (NEC) for safety.

For best results, use a separately purchased 8 ft ground rod and #6 copper wire with the supplied ground lug, as shown.

For best results, use a separately purchased 8 ft ground rod and #6 copper wire with the supplied ground lug.

For well-grounded towers and masts, use the supplied ground kit, as shown.

For well-grounded towers and masts, use the supplied ground kit, as shown.

Grounding in Open Water Applications

For offshore applications, grounding to the water is the only option, although many buoy systems go ungrounded. If needed, an electrical ground wire should be connected to the X3 and the buoy hull metal frame.

On large platform buoys, the X3 housing is grounded to the tower ring plate and to the tower when mounted in place. This connects the logger housing to water through the buoy frame.

On large platform buoys, the X3 housing is grounded to the tower ring plate and to the tower when mounted in place. This connects the logger housing to water through the buoy frame.

 

Maintenance

As a general practice, measurement data, battery voltage, and other diagnostics (humidity, telemetry signal strength, etc.) should be monitored daily. Alert notifications for data and system functions can be used to detect anomalies and provide early warning that maintenance is required.

 

Desiccant Replacement

Desiccant is used to absorb humidity and should be replaced annually, or anytime the logger is opened.

  1. Unthread the middle power port plug to release pressure.
    Unthread the middle power port plug to release pressure.
  2. Remove the wire from its track at the base of the data logger’s aluminum housing.
    Remove the wire from its track at the base of the data logger's aluminum housing.
  3. Carefully remove the lid, taking care not to stress the wires.
    Carefully remove the lid, taking care not to stress the wires.
  4. Replace the desiccant and reinstall the lid.
    Replace the desiccant and reinstall the lid.
  5. Reinstall the wire and center port plug.
    Reinstall the wire and center port plug.
  6. Review the internal humidity readings on WQData LIVE.
    1. Ideally, the internal humidity will stabilize under 20%; however, humidity levels will be dependent on the environmental conditions.

Storage

When storing the X3 data logger for an extended period of time, follow the steps below to preserve system function and prevent damage.

  1. Disconnect the center port cable and replace it with a port cap.
    Disconnect the center port cable and replace it with a port cap.
  2. Use the O-ring grease included in the maintenance kit as needed to re-grease the cable/plug connector O-rings.
    Use the O-ring grease included in the maintenance kit as needed to re-grease the cable/plug connector O-rings.
  3. Inspect all sensor ports and cable connections, ensuring there are no signs of moisture or damage.
    Inspect all sensor ports and cable connections, ensuring there are no signs of moisture or damage.
  4. Cover all logger or cable connectors with a dust cap or UW-plug.
    Cover all logger or cable connectors with a dust cap or UW-plug.
  5. Store the loggers and accessories in a dry, climate-controlled environment.

 

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while using the NexSens X3 data logger, refer to the appropriate troubleshooting procedure in this section for guidance. The steps below are designed to help identify and resolve common problems quickly.

For additional help, contact a NexSens systems specialist.

 

Troubleshooting Telemetry Connection

If a NexSens X-Series data logging system suddenly stops sending data to WQData LIVE, follow the steps in the video below to resolve the issue. For written instructions, skip ahead to Review Last Contact Time.


Video Thumbnail from the NexSens YouTube Channel. The text reads: Troubleshooting: NexSens X3 Data Logger Communications.

Review Last Contact Time

First, check the system on WQData LIVE to learn more about the problem.

  1. Check the Last Contact Time for the logger. This indicates whether the system has contacted the web at the expected time.
    Check the Last Contact Time for the logger.
  2. There are three possible icons:
    Icon Explanation Potential Reasons for Missing Data
    Contacting Icon. Logger is contacting as expected. Data is missing due to a loss of sensor connection, not due to telemetry issues.
    Intermittent Connection Icon. Logger has missed its latest transmission. Intermittent connectivity. Wait for the next interval to see if the connection is restored.
    Lost Connection Icon. Logger has missed multiple transmissions. Loss of connectivity.
  3. If you see the green icon, view the Troubleshooting Loss of Sensor Communication section for help.
  4. If red, continue to the next step.

Review Internal Diagnostics

X-Series data loggers collect power, humidity, and signal parameters that display the health of the system. Use WQData LIVE’s reporting tool to review diagnostic data collected by the logger.

Primary Power

  1. Healthy systems will show primary power typically ranging from 12.5 to 14.5 V.
  2. If the primary power has dropped below 11.5V, that is the likely cause of the telemetry outage.
    1. Review the appropriate documents in the Knowledge Base to troubleshoot the solar power pack.
      Primary power chart.

Internal Humidity

High humidity can adversely impact or damage the electronics. Internal humidity should be below 50%. A high humidity or sudden spike indicates that water has breached the housing, and the logger will need to be sent to the factory for evaluation and repair.

Signal Strength/Status

The signal strength provides an indication of how stable the telemetry connection is at the deployment site.

  1. Below are stable signal strength values for each telemetry type:
    • Wi-Fi: -30 to -60 dB
    • Cellular: -51 to -75 dB
    • Iridium: 3-5 dB
  2. If the signal strength is outside of these ranges, the connection may be intermittent or failing.
  3. If signal strength values have changed abruptly or there is an increase in signal status errors, a visual inspection of the antenna is required.

Check with Telemetry Provider

If the internal diagnostics do not indicate the telemetry issues, check with the telemetry provider to ensure the service is still active and that no changes have been made.

Visual Inspection

Most often, lost communication issues will result in a field visit for on-site troubleshooting.

  1. Inspect the system for damage from weather events, vandalism, and wildlife.
  2. Check antenna for damage or water ingress at the connector. Dry and reinstall antenna with o-rings in place
  3. Check for tree cover and other solar obstructions—reposition or clear as needed.
  4. Check all connectors and cables for water ingress, cuts, chafing or loose connections.
    Check all connectors and cables for water ingress, cuts, chafing or loose connections.
  5. If the system appears to be intact, unplug and wait 30 seconds before plugging the power back in and listen for audible signals.
    1. If silent, the solar power and/or battery may have failed and needs to be repaired or replaced.
  6. Connect sensors to the manufacturer’s software and confirm proper function.
  7. Another possible cause could be that the cellular SIM may have failed or is disconnected. Contact NexSens or your cellular service provider.

Direct Software Connection

If communication has not been reestablished and there are no visual or power issues, direct connection to the logger will allow users to adjust settings and, if needed, change cellular service providers.

  1. Plug the X3 into a computer and launch CONNECT software.
  2. Open the Cellular settings and turn the RTU board on.
    Open Cellular Communications.Turn the RTU board on.
  3. If the RTU board does not power on, try again. After multiple attempts, it is likely the modem has failed and needs to be replaced.
  4. If it does power on, verify signal strength and stability by testing connectivity.
  5. Review and edit (if necessary) the Custom 1 command, and then click Send.
    If You See… Do This…
    IP address returned after AT#SGACT Connection successful – proceed to Custom 2 command
    “SIM not inserted” Power down the system and reinsert the SIM
    “Activation Failed” Review PDP Context settings. If correct, contact the carrier to ensure the plan is active and set for an M2M plan.
    “Requested Service Option not subscribed” Contact the carrier to ensure the plan is active and set for an M2M plan.
    “Unspecified GPRS error” Check carrier compatibility with modem/antenna bands
  6. If a successful Custom 1 command response is returned, continue to the Custom 2 command and select Send.
  7. Reconnect the system and try to establish communication with WQData LIVE.

 

Troubleshooting Loss of Sensor Communication

If a sensor is not communicating with the X3 data logger, follow the steps below to troubleshoot communications and get data back online.

 

Confirm Sensor Issue

First, users will need to rule out whether the issue is related to the sensor or a telemetry outage.

  1. In WQData LIVE, check the last contact time and primary power.
    Icon Explanation
    Contacting Icon. Logger is contacting as expected.
    Intermittent Connection Icon. Logger has missed its latest transmission.
    Lost Connection Icon. Logger has missed multiple transmissions.
  2. If you see the red icon, view the Troubleshooting Telemetry Connection section for help.
  3. If green, continue to the next step.

Check Power

  1. Check the power history using WQData’s reporting tool.
  2. Ensure the power is sufficient for operation.
    1. Refer to the sensor manual for power requirements.
      Primary power chart.

Visual Inspection

  1. Visit the field site, inspect the sensor, cable connection, and power supply for physical damage.
  2. Reset the sensor by unplugging it from the logger, and plug it into P0.
    Reset the sensor by unplugging it from the logger, and plug it into P0.
  3. Confirm functionality on a computer.
  4. If communications are not restored, contact a NexSens systems specialist for help.
    1. 937-426-2703
    2. [email protected]

 

Troubleshooting a Drop in Primary Power

If power reports reveal a sudden drop in primary power, this is usually indicative of a battery or solar panel issue. View the appropriate documents in the Knowledge Base for troubleshooting.

 

Accessories

Commonly used accessories are listed below.

NexSens UW6 Direct Connect USB PC Cable Allows for direct connection from a PC to an X-Series data logger.
PM2 Data Logger Mounting Kit Secures the logger to a pole or wall and allows for easy connection and removal.
MAST Aluminum Mounting Pole A 2″ NPT aluminum pipe assembly designed for mounting X-Series loggers and SP-Series solar power packs.
SP-Series Solar Power Packs Features a solar panel, regulator, and battery housed in a weather-tight enclosure.
UW6 Battery Backup Provides auxiliary power to X-Series data logging & telemetry systems when primary AC power is disrupted.
UW6 AC Power Adapter Used to power NexSens X-Series systems from a wall outlet.
UW Field Wireable Plug Designed to allow easy connection from a flying lead sensor cable to a standard NexSens UW-8 receptacle.
UW 2-Way Sensor Splitter Expands the number of sensor ports on an X3 data logger from 1 to 2.
UW 4-Way Sensor Splitter Expands the number of sensor ports on an X3 data logger from 1 to 4.

 

Training

Training is available upon request. Contact a NexSens Systems Specialist to schedule a training session.

[email protected]

 

Warranty

View the NexSens Warranty.

 

Service Request

To return equipment for evaluation and repair, visit this page for more information.