Setup Iridium Logger Through CONNECT

Satellite/Iridium transmission is more expensive than other traditional forms of communication (e.g., cellular, radio, Wi-Fi). Therefore, it is imperative that the end-user only transmit the most useful diagnostic and sensor parameters. The CONNECT software can set these parameters and their log/transmission interval before the data logger transfers data to the web. Thus, outlining the proper sensor configuration through the CONNECT software will reduce overall data transfer. 

Note: Disconnect the Iridium antenna before performing this process to ensure no communication with WQData LIVE.

 

Establish Connection with Logger & Complete Sensor Detection

1. Download the CONNECT software on a PC or laptop.
   • CONNECT Software Download
2. Remove one blank sensor plug from an 8-pin port (i.e., P0, P1, or P2) for each sensor connected to the X2.
   • Connect all sensors to the desired ports.
     • Note: Only one RS-232 sensor can be plugged into each P0, P1, or P2 port. Ensure that all SDI-12 and RS-485 sensors have unique addresses.
3. Connect to the X2 data logger using a NexSens UW6-USB-485P cable.
   • Establish logger connection 
   • Note: Ensure the data logger receives 12VDC power from either the internal batteries on a NexSens buoy system or the AC power adapter from a NexSens UW6-USB-485P-DC cable.
4. For new systems (i.e., no prior sensor detection), the data logger will automatically begin a sensor detection based on its default enabled scripts. Review the article below to ensure the desired sensor scripts are available and enabled:
   • X2 Default Enabled Scripts
     • Note: A new sensor detection will be required if the appropriate sensor scripts were disabled during the automatic detection. New automatic sensor detections occur after erasing the log data and the current sensor configuration.
       1. Erase Log Data
       2. Erase Sensor Configuration
5. After ~10 minutes (depending on the number of scripts enabled), the X2 data logger will have finished its sensor detection.
   • Check the sensor configuration on the X2 using the DATA tab to review the detected sensors and parameters.
     • Read Device Configuration
   • Upload the latest data in the DAQ tab to see if the device has taken a sensor reading.
     • Read the Last Data Acquisition

Note: Ensure to gather and evaluate a few sensor readings before continuing. It is imperative that accurate diagnostic and sensor readings are shown before pushing the setup to the web.

 

Set Transmit Flags

1. Once all sensors are detected and accurate readings are shown, it is essential to set the appropriate transmit flags and transmit interval for the most useful diagnostic and sensor parameters.
   • Set Transmit Flags and Start Time/Interval
     • It is advised to enable transmit flags for the following internal X2 parameters:
       1. Primary Power
       2. Internal Humidity
       3. Cell Signal Strength
       4. Cell Status

 

Set Log/Selective Upload Interval(s)

1. The log and selective upload intervals will control the amount of data recorded by the logger and set limits for when specific parameter data is transmitted.
   • Set Log and Selective Upload Intervals
     • It is advised to set the selective upload interval for the internal X2 parameters to at least 6 hours; however, this will depend on the Iridium plan purchased for the logger.

 

Review & Begin WQData LIVE Setup

1. Review all settings set previously to ensure the desired sensor configuration and settings will upload to WQData LIVE.
2. Power down the logger and reconnect the Iridium antenna.
3. Re-apply 12VDC power and listen for the audible beeps or view the LEDs depending on the X2 logger model.
   • X2 Pole Mount LED Indicators
   • X2-CB/X2-SDL Buzzer Pattern Indicator
     • If receiving insufficient signal strength, move the logger into an area devoid of overhead obstructions.
4. The logger will immediately push its sensor configuration to the email assigned to it during the Iridium account setup.
   • Following the Iridium Telemetry Data Flow, every 5 minutes, WQData LIVE will request messages from that email and begin processing the X2’s sensor configuration.
   • Once processing is complete, the X2’s sensors and parameter list will be visible on WQData LIVE.

 

Update Logger’s Binary Format

1. Once the configuration is visible, the user must send the “Update Binary Format” command from WQData LIVE.
   • The binary format command will provide the settings outlined in the CONNECT software.
   • Note: No data will transfer until the data logger provides an updated binary format to the web.
2. Navigate to the ADMIN | Settings tab at the top of the WQData LIVE Project Dashboard.

 

3. Click on the Advanced Device Remote Configuration drop-down menu and choose the logger.
   • Enter code ‘nexsens’ when prompted.

 

4. Click the UPDATE button underneath Update Binary Format.
   • A prompt should display showing the command was sent successfully.
5. After the command is sent, three full transmission intervals will occur before data is pushed to the web.
   1. The logger will pull this remote command from the email at the first transmit interval.
   2. The logger will provide the updated format at the second transmit interval.
   3. WQData LIVE will process this format and be able to parse the data that is pushed on the third transmit interval.