X3 Environmental Data Logger Overview

The X3 is an all-in-one environmental data logger designed for both pole/wall mount and buoy-based applications. It automatically recognizes sensors and sends data to the WQData LIVE web data center via cellular 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 X3 includes three waterproof sensor ports that are compatible with most environmental sensors using SDI-12, RS-232 or RS-485. All connections are made with a simple thread-in connector, and the built-in sensor library automatically facilitates setup and configuration. Data is stored on common or independent schedules.

Power options include SP-Series Solar Power Packs, AC adapters, battery backups, or external 12 VDC. Advanced power management combined with ultra-low sleep and run currents extend battery life and eliminate the need for multi-battery arrays or large solar charging systems. The X3 monitors itself while collecting environmental data – internal temperature, humidity, voltages, and currents are constantly recorded, and failure alerts can be sent automatically to a predefined list of contacts.

Using Bluetooth or a USB adapter with the NexSens CONNECT Software, users can configure the X3 Data Logger for deployment, view live data, change settings, or troubleshoot. Optional integrated 4G LTE cellular or Iridium satellite telemetry modules offer 2-way remote communications via the WQData LIVE.

 

 

Body Tag Identification

Each X3 logger has a body tag engraved into the exterior of the housing. The tag is located on the lower backside of the logger between the alignment screw and the green wire insert. The tag is incorporated into the default name of the device on WQData LIVE and is used for logger identification. A NexSens technical support specialist will request this tag for remote troubleshooting or if NexSens-supplied data services require activation, suspension, or cancellation.

 

Specifications

The X3 is fully sealed in a marine anodized aluminum housing. All sensor and power inputs utilize waterproof UW connectors, and antenna connections feature an O-ring seal. The unit is designed to work in extreme conditions, including underwater. A specially designed mounting bracket holds the X3 to a pole mast, and bolt holes on the top and bottom of the housing provide easy installation on NexSens CB-Series data buoys.

Housing	Operation
Material: Marine anodized aluminum Weight: 3.0 lbs. (1.36kg) Dimensions: 4.9″ (12.45cm) diameter x 4.15″ (10.54cm) height Rating: IP68 Operating Temperature: -40°C to 70°C Mount: (4) 5/16-18 top bolt holes, (3) 3/8-16 bottom bolt holes; Optional PM2 for pole/wall mounting Antenna Port: SMA	User Interface: Wireless Bluetooth or wired RS-485 via USB adapter to CONNECT Software; WQData LIVE Web Datacenter with optional wireless telemetry; Status beeps Log Interval: User configurable from 1-minute (10-minute default)1; Unique interval per sensor Transmit Interval: User configurable from 5-minute (10-minute default) Transmission Trigger: Time-based; Selective parameter upload option Sensor Interfaces: RS-232 (3 Channels), SDI-12, RS-485, Pulse Count Sensor Power: (2) independent switches from the input supply2,3 Telemetry Options: 4G LTE global cellular; Iridium satellite; 4G LTE global cellular with Iridium fallback
Power	Internal Features
Power Requirements: 10.7 to 16.8 VDC +/-5%; includes reverse polarity protection, over-voltage protection (OVP), and under voltage lockout (UVLO) protection Current Draw (Typical @ 12VDC): Sleep: 450uA; Active: 55mA; Cellular transmitting: 300mA; Iridium satellite transmitting: 170mA Peak Current: The power supply must be able to sustain a 500mA 1-second peak current (@ 12V)	Real-Time Clock (RTC): <30sec/month drift4; Auto-sync weekly5; Internal backup battery Data Logging: 8 MB non-volatile flash memory; > 1-year storage with 20 parameters at 15-minute intervals; Max 200 parameters per log interval Built-in Sensors: Temperature (-40° to 100°C, 0.016°C resolution, ±0.3°C accuracy) Humidity (0% to 100%, 0.03% resolution, ±4% accuracy from 5 to 95% RH) System voltage System current System power Real-time clock (RTC) battery voltage Sensor Ports: (3) UW 8-pin for sensor interface (RS-232, SDI-12, RS-485, Pulse Count, Power, GND) Power Port: (1) UW 6-pin for power and communication (primary/secondary/backup input, RS-485 host, GND)

¹Minimum log interval dependent on sensor limitations and processing time
²Cumulative concurrent current limit of all three channels is 2A
³Logger power supply must be able to support current requirements of sensors
⁴Assumes 25°C operating temperature
⁵Requires the X3 to be connected to the internet