M550 Beacon for CB-Series Data Buoys

The NexSens M550 Solar Marine Light is a common accessory added to NexSens CB-Series data buoys up to and including the CB-450. Depending on the configuration, it has a 1-3 nautical mile range and is normally delivered with flange mount hardware, yellow color and default 15 flash/minute pattern (Model M550-F-Y).   Installation While it typically […]

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M550/M650 Solar Marine Light Remote Programming

NexSens M550 and M650 Solar Marine Lights purchased with CB-Series data buoys will most often arrive pre-programmed for use. However, the IR remote may be used to change configuration settings using the codes provided in the table below. Note that activation commands need to be sent with the remote facing the side of the beacon. […]

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CB-Series Data Buoy Ballast Weight & Stability

Ballast weight may be needed to prevent overturning a CB-series buoy system and ensure stability in the water. The center of gravity of NexSens CB-Series buoys is near the water surface without instruments connected. Therefore, any top-side weight added above the water’s surface (e.g., sensors, sensor mounts) must be appropriately counterbalanced by ballast weight below the […]

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Mooring Data Buoys

This article contains only general information on the available mooring options for NexSens data buoys. Developing an effective mooring strategy requires reviewing various application-specific criteria (water level fluctuations, currents and wave action, debris loads, etc.) before deployment. This document is intended to provide a starting place for mooring design and is by no means comprehensive. […]

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Buoy Ballast Weights

The table below indicates the minimum recommended buoy ballast weights for each CB-Series data buoy, assuming no additional topside weight and calm environmental conditions. Included instrument cages mounted to the buoy frame helps stabilize the buoy and provides a deeper location for mounting additional weight. The small model instrument cage (10 lbs.) is included with […]

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Replace Battery

Remove the beacon from the top of the buoy solar tower by removing the three top-facing bolts using a 7/16″ socket wrench.   Invert the beacon.   Remove the small Phillips screw holding the cover in place and turn it counterclockwise.   Lift up on the cover to remove it.   Press down on the […]

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Replace Desiccant

Each X2-CB/X2-CBMC ships with a bag of desiccant inside the logger enclosure. This desiccant bag should be replaced whenever: The X2-CB/CBMC enclosure is opened. The Internal Humidity diagnostic parameter reads 50% or greater.   Caution!!!- Be sure to statically ground yourself prior to touching any of the electronics inside the X2 logger!   Any appropriately-sized […]

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Data Buoy Storage Requirements

The following buoy storage requirements are required when storing a CB-Series data buoy with an X2-CB data logger: Storage Requirements Store the buoy in a dry environment that is kept above freezing. A climate-controlled location may be necessary. Extremely cold temperatures can negatively impact the performance of the batteries. Cold or excessively fluctuating storage temperatures […]

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Verify Battery Voltage of a CB-Series Buoy

Use a DC volt/multimeter to verify the battery voltage of a CB-Series data buoy on the UW-6 (6-pin) SOLAR port on the data well top plate. This method works for both user-supplied battery systems with CB-PTL pass-through lid and NexSens-supplied CB-A01 and CB-A05 SLA battery systems. Measure the voltage between pins 3 (V+) and 4 […]

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Replace a Battery in a CB-Series Data Buoy

The 12V sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries installed in the data well of CB-Series buoys may require replacement when the charge falls below ~10V or every 2-3 years as their integrity declines with age. This guide shows the steps to replace the A05 12V 28 A-Hr battery commonly equipped in harnesses with one to four […]

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