Knowledge Base

Running a Sensor Re-Detection


During initial setup, when a sensor auto-detection is run, WQData LIVE receives an XML file that defines the logger’s sensor configuration (sensor ID, parameter IDs, units, etc.). This configuration is saved on the backend and used to process future data transmissions.

When a new sensor detection is run to add or remove sensors/parameters, the XML format changes, and WQData LIVE must be updated. If the new configuration is not saved using a setup or sync settings command, incoming data will be rejected because it cannot be processed.

Additionally, the data logger depends on WQData LIVE’s latest timestamp to push any backlogged data. If old data (based on the previous configuration) remains on the logger after re-detection, similar processing issues can occur.

 

Re-Detection Considerations

NexSens recommends running sensor re-detections while directly connected to the data logger with NexSens CONNECT software. CONNECT allows you to clear log data and sensor settings, enable the correct scripts, run sensor detection, and immediately send the new configuration to WQData LIVE. The final sensor configuration will be displayed in CONNECT, and users should confirm it before transmitting.

  • When running a new sensor detection, ensure the following:
    • All sensors are properly configured for communication with the data logger according to their X-Series integration guide.
    • Only one RS-232 sensor is connected per port.
    • All SDI-12 and RS-485 sensors have unique addresses.
    • 12VDC power is connected during the detection process.

 

Re-Detection Process

  1. Connect the sensors to the data logger.
    1. If possible, use the same ports as the previous detection.
  2. Download and open the CONNECT software.
    1. Establish a direct connection to the data logger using a UW6-USB-485P-DC communication cable.
  3. Enable or create the required sensor scripts.
    1. Only enable the scripts necessary for the connected sensors and the loggers’ internal diagnostics.
    2. Configure Sensor Scripts
  4. Configure the logger:
    1. Erase the sensor programming
    2. Reset the logger
      • The logger will automatically detect connected sensors once the previous configuration has been erased and the logger is reset.

 

Confirming the New Sensor Configuration

Depending on the number of scripts enabled, sensor detection may take several minutes. During this time, periodically check the sensor configuration in CONNECT to verify progress. The X3 Environmental Data Logger will beep once every three seconds while detection is in progress.

When detection completes, gather a few sensor readings to confirm accuracy before continuing.

 

Updating the Sensor Configuration on WQData LIVE

After a successful re-detection, the new sensor configuration must be sent to WQData LIVE. Depending on the scope of changes, you may need to contact NexSens Technical Support to have the device re-created on the web.

Re-creating the device will make the original web device obsolete, but all historical data will remain available with that entry. The new configuration and all future data will be uploaded to a separate location within your project/site. This prevents overwriting the original configuration, which could cause incorrect sensor labeling and data interpretation.

A NexSens support specialist will handle the re-creation process, rename the old device for clarity, and ensure the new device is reading and transmitting correctly.