X2 Environmental Data Logger Overview


The X2 is an all-in-one environmental data logger that can be controlled from any internet browser using a smartphone, tablet, or PC. It automatically recognizes sensors and sends data to the WQData LIVE web data center via Wi-Fi, cellular, radio, or satellite telemetry. There, data is presented on a fully-featured and easy-to-use dashboard where remote, real-time communication with the logger is possible. The X2 includes three sensor ports that are compatible with most environmental sensor protocols including SDI-12, RS-232, and RS-485. All connections are made with a simple thread-in connector, and the built-in sensor library automatically facilitates setup and configuration.

 

X2 Environmental Data Logger product page

Figure 1: NexSens X2 Environmental Data Logger.

 

Key Specifications

The key specifications for the X2 Environmental Data Logger are given below:

  • Material: Anodized aluminum
  • Weight: 3.5 lbs. (1.6 kg)
  • Dimensions: 4.9″ (12.45 cm) Diameter, 4.77″ (12.12 cm) Height
  • Power Requirements: 5-24 VDC +/-10% (Reverse polarity protected)
  • Current Draw (Typical @ 12VDC): Low power sleep: 350uA; Logger Active: 35mA; Wi-Fi Transmitting: 43mA; Cellular Transmitting: 300mA
  • Peak Current: Power supply must be able to sustain a 500mA 1-second peak current (@ 12V)
  • Operating Temperature: -20°C to 70°C
  • Rating: IP67 (Standalone); IP65 (With telemetry)

 

Internal Features

Internal data logging and processing are driven by the features below:

  • Data Logging: 256MB microSD card (expandable up to 32GB)
  • Data Processing: Parameter level polynomial equation adjustment; Basic & Burst Averaging (min, max, standard deviation, and raw data available)
  • Real Time Clock (RTC): <30sec/month drift; Auto-sync weekly; Internal backup battery
    • Assumes 25°C operating temperature and internet connection for syncing.
  • Sensor Interfaces: SDI-12, RS-232 (3 Channels), RS485
  • Sensor Power: (3) 12V regulated switch channels with 1.5A capacity
    • Cumulative concurrent current limit of all three channels is 2A
  • Built-in Sensors: Temperature (-40 to 85°C, 0.1°C resolution, ±0.3°C accuracy); Humidity (0% to 100%, 0.1% resolution, ±4% accuracy from 5 to 95% RH & -20 to 70°C); Battery voltage
  • Sensor Ports: (3) 8-Pin for Sensor Interface (RS-232, RS-485, SDI-12, 5V, 12V, GND)
  • Power Port: (1) 6-Pin for Power and Communication (Primary/Secondary/Backup Input, RS-485 Host, GND)

 

Direct Communication

The CONNECT software enables users to interface directly with any NexSens X2-Series data logger using a UW6-USB-485P cable. It supports a growing number of diagnostic and configuration tools to facilitate system setup and troubleshooting.

CONNECT software user guide

Figure 2: CONNECT software.

 

Telemetry Options

The X2 supports Wi-Fi, radio, cellular, and satellite telemetry. A radio to cellular option is also available.

  • Wi-Fi
    • Communications: 802.11b/g/n (Direct to X2 or Connect X2 to an existing network)
    • Antenna: Internal to device
    • Range: 250 ft. maximum
      • Actual distances may vary by location.
  • Radio
    • 900MHz Mesh Network (902-928 MHz)
    • 2.4GHz Mesh Network (2.4-2.483 GHz)
  • Cellular
    • 2G: GSM 850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz
    • 3G: UMTS/HSPA+ 850, 900, 1700, 1900, 2100 MHz
    • 4G: LTE Bands B2(1900), B4(1700), B5(850), B12(700ac), B13(700c)
  • Iridium
    • Short Burst Data (SBD) 1616 MHz to 1626.5 MHz

 

WQData LIVE Web Datacenter

WQData LIVE is a web-based project management service that allows users 24/7 instant access to data collected from NexSens G2, X2, and V2 platforms. Users can configure and update systems remotely via their telemetry based option.

WQData LIVE product page

Figure 3: WQData LIVE web datacenter.