Campbell Scientific CS451, CS456 User Manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

CS451/CS456 Submersible

Copyright © 2009- 2014

Campbell Scientific, Inc.

Pressure Transducer

Revision: 7/14

Limited Warranty

“Products manufactured by CSI are warranted by CSI to be free from defects in
materials and workmanship under normal use and service for twelve months
from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified in the corresponding
product manual. (Product manuals are available for review online at

www.campbellsci.com.) Products not manufactured by CSI, but that are resold

by CSI, are warranted only to the limits extended by the original manufacturer.
Batteries, fine-wire thermocouples, desiccant, and other consumables have no
warranty. CSI’s obligation under this warranty is limited to repairing or
replacing (at CSI’s option) defective Products, which shall be the sole and
exclusive remedy under this warranty. The Customer assumes all costs of
removing, reinstalling, and shipping defective Products to CSI. CSI will return
such Products by surface carrier prepaid within the continental United States of
America. To all other locations, CSI will return such Products best way CIP
(port of entry) per Incoterms ® 2010. This warranty shall not apply to any
Products which have been subjected to modification, misuse, neglect, improper
service, accidents of nature, or shipping damage. This warranty is in lieu of all
other warranties, expressed or implied. The warranty for installation services
performed by CSI such as programming to customer specifications, electrical
connections to Products manufactured by CSI, and Product specific training, is
part of CSI's product warranty. CSI EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS AND

EXCLUDES ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY
OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. CSI hereby disclaims,
to the fullest extent allowed by applicable law, any and all warranties and
conditions with respect to the Products, whether express, implied or
statutory, other than those expressly provided herein.”

Assistance

Products may not be returned without prior authorization. The following
contact information is for US and international customers residing in countries
served by Campbell Scientific, Inc. directly. Affiliate companies handle
repairs for customers within their territories. Please visit

www.campbellsci.com to determine which Campbell Scientific company serves

your country.

To obtain a Returned Materials Authorization (RMA), contact CAMPBELL
SCIENTIFIC, INC., phone [phone]. After an applications engineer
determines the nature of the problem, an RMA number will be issued. Please
write this number clearly on the outside of the shipping container. Campbell
Scientific’s shipping address is:

CAMPBELL SCIENTIFIC, INC.
RMA#_____
815 West 1800 North
Logan, Utah 84321-1784

For all returns, the customer must fill out a “Statement of Product Cleanliness
and Decontamination” form and comply with the requirements specified in it.
The form is available from our web site at www.campbellsci.com/repair. A
completed form must be either emailed to [e-mail] or faxed to
[phone]. Campbell Scientific is unable to process any returns until we
receive this form. If the form is not received within three days of product
receipt or is incomplete, the product will be returned to the customer at the
customer’s expense. Campbell Scientific reserves the right to refuse service on
products that were exposed to contaminants that may cause health or safety
concerns for our employees.

Precautions

DANGER — MANY HAZARDS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH INSTALLING, USING, MAINTAINING, AND WORKING ON OR AROUND

TRIPODS, TOWERS, AND ANY ATTACHMENTS TO TRIPODS AND TOWERS SUCH AS SENSORS, CROSSARMS, ENCLOSURES,
ANTENNAS, ETC. FAILURE TO PROPERLY AND COMPLETELY ASSEMBLE, INSTALL, OPERATE, USE, AND MAINTAIN TRIPODS,

TOWERS, AND ATTACHMENTS, AND FAILURE TO HEED WARNINGS, INCREASES THE RISK OF DEATH, ACCIDENT, SERIOUS
INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, AND PRODUCT FAILURE. TAKE ALL REASONABLE PRECAUTIONS TO AVOID THESE HAZARDS.
CHECK WITH YOUR ORGANIZATION'S SAFETY COORDINATOR (OR POLICY) FOR PROCEDURES AND REQUIRED PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT PRIOR TO PERFORMING ANY WORK.

Use tripods, towers, and attachments to tripods and towers only for purposes for which they are designed. Do not exceed design
limits. Be familiar and comply with all instructions provided in product manuals. Manuals are available at www.campbellsci.com or
by telephoning 435-227-9000 (USA). You are responsible for conformance with governing codes and regulations, including safety
regulations, and the integrity and location of structures or land to which towers, tripods, and any attachments are attached. Installation
sites should be evaluated and approved by a qualified engineer. If questions or concerns arise regarding installation, use, or
maintenance of tripods, towers, attachments, or electrical connections, consult with a licensed and qualified engineer or electrician.

General

• Prior to performing site or installation work, obtain required approvals and permits. Comply

with all governing structure-height regulations, such as those of the FAA in the USA.

• Use only qualified personnel for installation, use, and maintenance of tripods and towers, and

any attachments to tripods and towers. The use of licensed and qualified contractors is
highly recommended.

• Read all applicable instructions carefully and understand procedures thoroughly before

beginning work.

• Wear a hardhat and eye protection, and take other appropriate safety precautions while

working on or around tripods and towers.

• Do not climb tripods or towers at any time, and prohibit climbing by other persons. Take

reasonable precautions to secure tripod and tower sites from trespassers.

• Use only manufacturer recommended parts, materials, and tools.

Utility and Electrical

• You can be killed or sustain serious bodily injury if the tripod, tower, or attachments you are

installing, constructing, using, or maintaining, or a tool, stake, or anchor, come in contact
with overhead or underground utility lines.

• Maintain a distance of at least one-and-one-half times structure height, or 20 feet, or the

distance required by applicable law, whichever is greater, between overhead utility lines and
the structure (tripod, tower, attachments, or tools).

• Prior to performing site or installation work, inform all utility companies and have all

underground utilities marked.

• Comply with all electrical codes. Electrical equipment and related grounding devices should

be installed by a licensed and qualified electrician.

Elevated Work and Weather

• Exercise extreme caution when performing elevated work.

• Use appropriate equipment and safety practices.

• During installation and maintenance, keep tower and tripod sites clear of un-trained or non-

essential personnel. Take precautions to prevent elevated tools and objects from dropping.

• Do not perform any work in inclement weather, including wind, rain, snow, lightning, etc.

Maintenance

• Periodically (at least yearly) check for wear and damage, including corrosion, stress cracks,

frayed cables, loose cable clamps, cable tightness, etc. and take necessary corrective actions.

• Periodically (at least yearly) check electrical ground connections.

WHILE EVERY ATTEMPT IS MADE TO EMBODY THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF SAFETY IN ALL CAMPBELL SCIENTIFIC PRODUCTS,
THE CUSTOMER ASSUMES ALL RISK FROM ANY INJURY RESULTING FROM IMPROPER INSTALLATION, USE, OR
MAINTENANCE OF TRIPODS, TOWERS, OR ATTACHMENTS TO TRIPODS AND TOWERS SUCH AS SENSORS, CROSSARMS,
ENCLOSURES, ANTENNAS, ETC.

Table of Contents

PDF viewers: These page numbers refer to the printed version of this document. Use the
PDF reader bookmarks tab for links to specific sections.

1. Introduction ................................................................. 1

2. Cautionary Statements ............................................... 1

3. Initial Inspection ......................................................... 1

4. Quickstart .................................................................... 2

5. Overview ...................................................................... 5

6. Specifications ............................................................. 6

7. Installation ................................................................... 8

7.1 Installation Considerations ................................................................... 8

7.1.1 Transducer Position ...................................................................... 8

7.1.2 Vent Tube ..................................................................................... 8

7.1.3 Appropriate Water Depth .............................................................. 9

7.1.4 Dislodging Bubbles ....................................................................... 9

7.2 Installation Procedure .......................................................................... 9

7.2.1 Lower to depth .............................................................................. 9

7.2.2 Secure the Transducer ................................................................... 9

7.2.2.1 Tie Wrap/Tape .................................................................... 9

7.2.2.2 Split Mesh Cable Grip ...................................................... 10

7.2.3 Measure the Initial Elevation ...................................................... 10

7.2.4 Offset Calculation ....................................................................... 10

7.3 Wiring ................................................................................................ 11

7.3.1 SDI-12 Datalogger Connections ................................................. 11

7.3.2 RS-232 Connections ................................................................... 11

7.3.3 A150/CWS900 ............................................................................ 12

7.4 Programming ...................................................................................... 12

7.4.1 CRBasic Programming ............................................................... 12

7.4.2 Edlog Programming .................................................................... 13

8. Operation ................................................................... 13

8.1 Configuration ..................................................................................... 13

8.1.1 PC Connection Using the A200 .................................................. 14

8.1.1.1 Driver Installation ............................................................ 14

8.1.1.2 A200 Wiring ..................................................................... 14

8.1.1.3 Powering the Sensor ......................................................... 15

8.1.1.4 Determining which COM Port the A200 has been

Assigned ....................................................................... 15

8.1.2 Device Configuration Utility (version 2.03 or higher) ................ 15

8.2 SDI-12 Commands ............................................................................. 16

8.3 Measuring Multiple SDI-12 Sensors .................................................. 17

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Table of Contents

9. Maintenance .............................................................. 17

9.1 Every Visit ........................................................................................ 18

9.2 Every Two to Three Years or on a Rotating Schedule ...................... 18

10. Troubleshooting ........................................................ 18

Appendices

Importing Short Cut Code ...................................... A-1

A.

A.1 Importing Short Cut Code into a Program Editor ............................ A-1

A.1.1 CRBasic Datalogger ................................................................. A-1

A.1.2 Edlog ........................................................................................ A-2

B. Example Programs .................................................. B-1

B.1 CRBasic Programs .......................................................................... B-1

B.1.1 Example Program for CR200(X)-Series Datalogger ................ B-1

B.1.2 Example Program for CR1000 Datalogger .............................. B-2

B.2 Example Program for CR10(X) Dataloggers .................................. B-3

C. Calibration Certificate ............................................. C-1

D. SDI-12 Sensor Support ........................................... D-1

D.1 SDI-12 Command Basics ................................................................ D-1

D.1.1 Address Query Command (?!) ................................................. D-1

D.1.2 Change Address Command (aAb!) .......................................... D-1

D.1.3 Send Identification Command (aI!) .......................................... D-2

D.1.4 Start Measurement Commands (aM!) ...................................... D-2

D.1.5 Aborting a Measurement Command ........................................ D-2

D.1.6 Send Data Command (aDv!) .................................................... D-2

D.2 SDI-12 Transparent Mode ............................................................... D-3

D.2.1 CR200(X) Series Datalogger Example .................................... D-3

D.2.2 CR1000 Datalogger Example ................................................... D-4

D.3 Advanced SDI-12 Commands ......................................................... D-5

E. RS-232 Connection Via PC Terminal Software ..... E-1

Figures

5-1. CS451 nose cone options .................................................................... 6

7-1. Transducer suspended with split mesh cable grip ............................. 10

7-2. A150 wired for CS451 pressure sensor and CWS900 connector ...... 12

8-1. A200 Sensor-to-PC Interface ............................................................ 14

8-2. Connect screen .................................................................................. 16

D-1. CR200(X) example of using the SDI-12 transparent mode to

change the SDI-12 address from 0 to 1. ....................................... D-4

D-2. CR1000 example of using the SDI-12 transparent mode to

change the SDI-12 address from 3 to 1. Sensor is connected

to control port 1. ........................................................................... D-5

E-1. Terminal Emulator ........................................................................... E-2

ii

Tables

Table of Contents

7-1. SDI-12 Wiring ................................................................................... 11

7-2. RS-232 Wiring ................................................................................... 11

8-1. Factory Settings ................................................................................. 13

8-2. A200 Wiring ...................................................................................... 14

8-3. SDI-12 Commands ............................................................................. 17

D-1. SDI-12 Command and Response Set .............................................. D-1

D-2. SDI-12 Commands .......................................................................... D-3

E-1. RS-232 Settings ............................................................................... E-1

E-2. RS-232 Terminal Commands ........................................................... E-2

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Table of Contents

iv

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure
Transducer

1. Introduction

The CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer provides pressure and
temperature measurements. It uses the SDI-12 or RS-232 communications
protocols to communicate with an SDI-12 or RS-232 recorder simplifying
installation and programming. The CS450/CS455 can be used with an A150
desiccated case allowing the transducer to be connected to a CWS900 wireless
sensor or prewired enclosure.

2. Cautionary Statements

• READ AND UNDERSTAND the Precautions section at the front of this

manual.

• Sensor will be damaged if it is encased in frozen liquid.

• Although the CS451/CS456 is rugged, it is also a highly precise scientific

instrument and should be handled as such. There are no user-serviceable
parts and any attempt to disassemble the device will void the warranty.

• Dropping the instrument or allowing it to “free fall” down a well may

damage the transducer.

• Never suspend the CS451/CS456 from the connections at the top end of

the cable. Sharp bends or excessive pinching of the cable can cause
damage and may pinch off the vent tube causing measurement errors.

• Confirm the compatibility of the sensor and cable to non-water

environments before installation.

• The CS456 instead of the CS451 should be used in harsh water

applications, including salt water.

3. Initial Inspection

• Upon receipt of the CS451/CS456, inspect the packaging for any signs of

shipping damage and, if found, report the damage to the carrier in
accordance with policy. The contents of the package should also be
inspected and a claim filed if any shipping related damage is discovered.

• The model number and pressure range is etched on the housing and the

cable length is printed on the label near the connection end of the cable.
Check this information against the shipping documentation to ensure that
the expected product was received.

• Ensure that the desiccant tube is attached to the vent tube on the cable.

The desiccant should be blue; replace if it is another color.

1

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

4. Quickstart

Short Cut is an easy way to program your datalogger to measure the sensor and
assign datalogger wiring terminals. The following procedure shows using
Short Cut to program the CS451/CS456.

1. Install Short Cut by clicking on the install file icon. Get the install file

from either www.campbellsci.com, the ResourceDVD, or find it in
installations of LoggerNet, PC200W, PC400, or RTDAQ software.

2. The Short Cut installation should place a Short Cut icon on the desktop of

your computer. To open Short Cut, click on this icon.

3. When Short Cut opens, select New Program.

2

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

4. Select Datalogger Model and Scan Interval (60 second or higher scan

interval is recommended). Click Next.

5. Under the Available Sensors and Devices list, select the Sensors | Water

| Level & Flow folder. Select CS450/CS455 Pressure Transducer, click

to move the selection to the Selected device window. Water level

defaults to feet and temperature defaults to degrees Celsius. These can be
changed by clicking the Water Level or Temperature box and selecting a
different option. Typically, the default SDI-12 address of 0 is used.

3

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

6. Under the Available Sensors and Devices list, select the Sensors | Water

| Level & Flow folder. Select Offset Calculation, click to move the
selection to the Selected device window, then select Lvl_ft for the Linked
Level and enter the initial water level in the Observed Level Reading

box.

7. After selecting the sensor and offset calculation, click at the left of the

screen on Wiring Diagram to see how the sensor is to be wired to the
datalogger. The wiring diagram can be printed out now or after more
sensors are added.

4

5. Overview

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

8. Select any other sensors you have, then finish the remaining Short Cut

steps to complete the program. The remaining steps are outlined in Short

Cut Help, which is accessed by clicking on Help | Contents |
Programming Steps.

9. If LoggerNet, PC400, or PC200W is running on your PC, and the PC to

datalogger connection is active, you can click Finish in Short Cut and you
will be prompted to send the program just created to the datalogger.

10. If the sensor is connected to the datalogger, as shown in the wiring

diagram in step 6, check the output of the sensor in the datalogger support
software data display to make sure it is making reasonable measurements.

The CS451/CS456 pressure transducer provides a reliable, accurate
pressure/level measurement that is fully temperature compensated. Its 24 bit
A/D has simultaneous 50/60 Hz rejection and automatic calibration for each
measurement.

A number of additional advanced measurement techniques are employed to
harness the best possible performance available from today’s state-of-the-art
pressure transducer technology. The transducer reverts to a low power sleep
state between measurements. A series of measurements are performed yielding
a temperature and pressure value. This measurement cycle takes less than 1.5
second. The transducer can also be configured to output pressure only in less
than 1 second. The measurement cycle is activated using SDI-12 or RS-232
commands.

The transducer consists of a piezoresistive sensor housed in a 316L stainless­steel (CS451) or titanium (CS456) package to enhance reliability. The rugged
construction makes the CS451/CS456 suitable for water level measurement in
irrigation applications, water wells, lakes, streams, and tanks. The titanium
package of the CS456 makes it ideal for salt water or other harsh environments.
The cable incorporates a vent tube to compensate for atmospheric pressure
fluctuations and the jacket is made of rugged Hytrel®, designed to remain
flexible and tough, even under harsh environmental conditions.

The CS451/CS456 has two communication options: SDI-12 or RS-232. The
CS451/CS456 is shipped from the factory with both communications options
enabled; there is no configuration required. As an SDI-12 sensor, the
CS451/CS456 is shipped with an address of 0.

Two values are output by the CS451/CS456 — pressure/level and temperature.
The CS451/CS456 is shipped from the factory to output pressure in psig and
temperature in degrees Celsius.

The CS451/CS456 has three nose cone options. FIGURE 5-1 shows the nose
cone options. The weighted nose cone makes the transducer easier to
submerge to depth. The 1/4 inch NPT nose cone allows the transducer to be
used in closed-pipe applications. Nose cones can be switched out later.

The –L in the transducer’s model name indicates user-specified cable length.

5

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

Standard Nose Cone

Weighted Nose Cone

1/4 inch NPT Nose Cone

FIGURE 5-1. CS451 nose cone options

6. Specifications

Features:

• Output acceptable for recording devices with SDI-12 or RS-232

capability including Campbell Scientific dataloggers

• Quality construction that ensures product reliability

• Rugged stainless steel or titanium case that protects piezoresistive

sensor

• Fully temperature compensated

• Low power sleep state between measurements that reduces power

consumption

• Weighted nose cone offered that adds 0.2 kg (7.4 oz) to the

transducer’s weight. Additional weight makes submersion of the
transducer easier

• Compatible with Campbell Scientific CRBasic dataloggers:

CR200(X) series, CR800 series, CR1000, CR3000, and CR5000.
Also compatible with Edlog dataloggers: CR500, CR510, CR10(X),
and CR23X

6

Power Requirements: 5 to 18 Vdc

Power Consumption: Quiescent current < 50 µA

Measurement/Communication Current: 8 mA

for 1-s measurement

Maximum Peak Current: 40 mA

Measurement Time: Less than 1.5 s

Outputs: SDI-12 (version 1.3) 1200 bps

RS-232 9600 bps

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

Pressure (psig)

Pressure (kPa)

Depth of fresh water

0 to 2.9

0 to 20

0 to 2 m (6.7 ft)

0 to 29

0 to 200

0 to 20.4 m (67 ft)

0 to 145

0 to 1000

0 to 102 m (334.5 ft)

CAUTION

Measurement Ranges:

0 to 7.25 0 to 50 0 to 5.1 m (16.7 ft)

0 to 14.5 0 to 100 0 to 10.2 m (33.4 ft)

0 to 72.5 0 to 500 0 to 50.9 m (167 ft)

Accuracy: ±0.1% full scale range TEB* or
±0.05% full scale range TEB**

Resolution: 0.0035% full scale range

Overpressure: 2x pressure range

Dry Storage Temperature: –10 to 80 °C

Sensor will be damaged if it is encased in frozen liquid.

Operating Temperature: 0 to 60 °C

Temperature Accuracy: ±0.2 °C

Maximum Cable Length:
SDI-12 (one transducer
connected to a single port): ~475 m (1500 ft)
SDI-12 (10 transducers
connected to a single port): 60 m (200 ft)
RS-232: 60 m (200 ft)

Cable Type: 5 Conductor, 26 AWG

Hytrel Jacket

Body Material: CS451 – 316L Stainless Steel
CS456 – Titanium

Element Material: CS451 – 316L Stainless Steel
CS456 – Hastelloy

Top Cone Material: Delrin

Length: 213.36 mm (6.875 in)

Diameter: 21.34 mm (0.84 in)

Distance from pressure sensor interface
(black line etched on housing) to:

End of NPT fitting: 2.54 cm (1 in)
End of standard nose cone: 2.3 cm (0.9 in)
End of weighted nose cone: 9.9 cm (3.9 in)

7

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

CAUTION

Air Gap
Standard and weighted
nose cone: 0.653 cm (0.257 in)
NPT fitting: 2.72 cm (1.07 in)

Weight: CS451: 0.17 kg (0.37 lb)

CS456: 0.10 kg (0.23 lb)
Cable: 0.421 kg/m (0.283 lb/ft)

25431 Split Mesh Grip
Accepts cable diameter: 4.57 to 6.35 mm (0.18 to 0.25 in)

Breaking Strength: (~300 lb)

* Total Error Band (TEB) includes the combined errors due to nonlinearity,
hysteresis, nonrepeatability, and thermal effects over the compensated
temperature range, per ISA S51.1.

** 0.05% full scale range accuracy not available in the 0 to 2.9 psig range.

7. Installation

If you are programming your datalogger with Short Cut, skip Section 7.3,
Wiring, and Section 7.4, Programming. Short Cut does this work for you. See
Section 4, Quickstart, for a Short Cut tutorial.

7.1 Installation Considerations

The CS451/CS456 is designed for water level measurements. Typical
applications include agricultural water level/flow, water wells, lakes, streams,
and tanks. If the device is to be installed in a liquid other than water or in
contaminated water, check the compatibility of the wetted material. The
CS456 should be used in harsh water applications, including salt water.

7.1.1 Transducer Position

The CS451/CS456 can be installed in any position; however, when it leaves the
factory it is tested in the vertical position. There will be an offset error if not
installed vertically; contact Campbell Scientific for more information.

7.1.2 Vent Tube

A vent tube incorporated in the cable vents the sensor diaphragm to the
atmosphere. This eliminates the need to compensate for changes in barometric
pressure. To prevent water vapor from entering the inner cavity of the sensor,
the vent tube opening terminates inside a desiccant tube.

The desiccant tube is shipped with a black cap to cover the
vent hole. This cap MUST be removed prior to installation.

Before installing the sensor, ensure the desiccant is blue; replace if not.

8

The desiccant tube must always be attached to the CS451/CS456.

7.1.3 Appropriate Water Depth

CAUTION

CAUTION

CAUTION

CAUTION

The CS451/CS456 must be installed below the water at a fixed depth. This
depth should be chosen so the water pressure will never exceed the
transducer’s pressure range (twice its pressure range).

The output reading will not be correct, and the transducer
can be damaged if pressure is excessive (2 x full scale).

Pressure can be converted to feet of fresh water using the following simple
equation:

1 psi = 2.31 feet of water

For example, the maximum depth with a pressure range of 0 to 7.25 psig is

16.748 feet of water.

7.1.4 Dislodging Bubbles

While submersing the transducer, air bubbles may become trapped between the
pressure plate and the water surface, causing small offset errors until the
bubbles dissolve. Dislodge these bubbles by gently shaking the CS451/CS456
while under water.

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

If bubbles are not removed by rotation and shaking
underwater (or bleeding out the air in a closed system), the
CS451/CS456 reading will drift lower by the distance of the
gap as the bubbles are slowly dissolved into the water over
time.

Hitting against the well casing or other solid surface could
damage the transducer.

7.2 Installation Procedure

7.2.1 Lower to depth

Lower the transducer to an appropriate depth.

Do not drop the instrument or allow it to “free fall” down a
well as this may damage the sensor.

With long drops, it may be necessary to use the weighted nose cone
(option -WN).

7.2.2 Secure the Transducer

7.2.2.1 Tie Wrap/Tape

The transducer body can be strapped with tie wraps or tape. Campbell
Scientific offers cable ties (pn 7421) that can be used to secure and strain relief

9

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

CAUTION

the cable. If installing in a well, fasten the cable to the well head. Wrap the
cable ties around the cable jacket.

Never suspend the CS451/CS456 from the connections at
the top of the cable. Sharp bends or excessive pinching of
the cable can cause damage and may pinch off the vent
tube causing measurement errors.

7.2.2.2 Split Mesh Cable Grip

The 25431 Split Mesh Cable Grip can be used to center the cable and to
provide a method of suspending the cable-reducing cable stretch. It is often
recommended for use in wells. FIGURE 7-1 shows a transducer’s cable
suspended using the split mesh cable grip.

10

FIGURE 7-1. Transducer suspended with split mesh cable grip

7.2.3 Measure the Initial Elevation

Use a staff gauge (or other device) to measure the initial elevation of water.
This value is used to calculate an offset that corrects the final measurement for
errors due to zero offset or installation. SCWin will make the offset
calculation. Refer to Section 7.2.4, Offset Calculation, if not using SCWin to
calculate the offset.

After installation, several readings should be taken to ensure proper operations
after installation.

7.2.4 Offset Calculation

The pressure created is directly proportional to the water column above the
sensor. An offset is used to correct the final measurement to any error due to
sensor zero offset or installation.

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

TABLE 7-1. SDI-12 Wiring

TABLE 7-2. RS-232 Wiring

NOTE

For example, if the correct elevation of the water, as measured by a staff gauge
or other measurement device, is 2015.50 feet, and the CS451 provides a
reading of 5.76 psig, then:

5.76 psig • 2.31 ft/psig = 13.3056 ft.

So, the offset is calculated:

2015.50 ft – 13.3056 ft = 2002.1944 ft

This offset can be accounted for in the program instruction of the SDI-12
recorder.

7.3 Wiring

Power down your system before wiring the CS451/CS456. The
shield wire plays an important role in noise emissions and
susceptibility as well as transient protection.

7.3.1 SDI-12 Datalogger Connections

Color

Red +12 Vdc 12 V Battery+ 12 V

Black Power Ground G G G

White SDI-12 Signal *Control Port C1/SDI-12 Control Port

Blue GND GND G G

Yellow GND GND G G

Clear Shield GND G G

*dedicated SDI-12 port on CR5000

7.3.2 RS-232 Connections

Color

Red +12vdc Power Source

Black Power Ground Power Ground

CS451/CS456
Function

CS451/CS456
Function

CR800
CR5000
CR3000
CR1000

CR200(X)
Series

Connection

CR510
CR23X
CR10X

RS-232 9-pin

White RS-232 Tx (Output) Transmit Pin 2 Rx (Input)

Blue RS-232 Rx (Input) Receive Pin 3 Tx (Output)

Yellow Digital Ground Ground Pin 5 GND

Clear Shield GND Ground

11

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

NOTE

7.3.3 A150/CWS900

The A150 desiccated case allows the CS451/CS456 to be connected to the
CWS900 wireless sensor and then used in a wireless network. FIGURE 7-2
shows the CS451 wired to the A150’s terminal block. The 26972 cable is
included with the A150.

FIGURE 7-2. A150 wired for CS451 pressure sensor and CWS900

connector

7.4 Programming

Short Cut is the best source for up-to-date datalogger programming code.
Programming code is needed,

If your data acquisition requirements are simple, you can probably create and
maintain a datalogger program exclusively with Short Cut. If your data
acquisition needs are more complex, the files that Short Cut creates are a great
source for programming code to start a new program or add to an existing
custom program.

Short Cut cannot edit programs after they are imported and edited
in CRBasic Editor.

A Short Cut tutorial is available in Section 4, Quickstart. If you wish to import
Short Cut code into either Edlog or CRBasic Editor to create or add to a
customized program, follow the procedure in Appendix A.1, Importing Short
Cut Code into a Program Editor. Programming basics for CRBasic and Edlog
dataloggers are provided in the following sections. Complete program
examples for select dataloggers can be found in Appendix B, Example
Programs.

• when creating a program for a new datalogger installation

• when adding sensors to an existing datalogger program

12

7.4.1 CRBasic Programming

The SDI12Recorder() measurement instruction programs CRBasic
dataloggers (CR200(X)-series, CR800-series, CR1000, CR3000, and CR5000)
to measure the CS451/CS456 sensor. This instruction sends a request to the
sensor to make a measurement and then retrieves the measurement from the
sensor. See Section 8.2, SDI-12 Commands, for more information.

When using a CR200(X), the SDI12Recorder() instruction has the following

TABLE 8-1. Factory Settings

syntax:

SDI12Recorder(Destination,OutString,Multiplier,Offset)

For the other CRBasic dataloggers, the SDI12Recorder() instruction has the
following syntax:

SDI12Recorder(Destination, SDIPort, SDIAddress, “SDICommand”,
Multiplier, Offset)

7.4.2 Edlog Programming

Edlog dataloggers read the CS451/CS456 using the SDI-12 Recorder (P105)
instruction.

Please note that Edlog only allocates one input location for the SDI-12

Recorder (P105) instruction. Two input locations are required for the SDI-12
M! command. The additional input locations need to be inserted manually
using the Input Location Editor. To get into the Input Location Editor, select
Edit/Input Labels or press the F5 key. Once in the Input Location Editor,

do the following:

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

8. Operation

8.1 Configuration

1. Choose Edit/Insert Block.

2. After the Insert Block dialog box appears, type in a base name for the

input locations. Each input location will have the base name with an
underscore and a consecutive number.

3. In the Start Address field, type in the number of the first input location.

4. In the Number of InLocs field, type in 2 and select OK.

TABLE 8-1 shows default settings of the CS451/CS456.

SDI-12 Address 0

RS-232 Baud Rate 9600

Pressure/Level Units psig

Temperature Units Celsius

Communicating with the CS451/CS456 requires the sensor to be either
connected to a PC or to an SDI-12 recorder. The sensor typically connects to a
PC via the A200 sensor to PC interface. Many SDI-12 recorders allow
communication to the sensor via a terminal screen. Configurable settings can
be changed via SDI-12 commands or by using Campbell Scientific’s software
Device Configuration Utility.

13

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

TABLE 8-2. A200 Wiring

NOTE

8.1.1 PC Connection Using the A200

The A200 or another device is required to connect the CS451/CS456 to a PC.
This allows sensor settings to be changed via our Device Configuration Utility.

8.1.1.1 Driver Installation

If the A200 has not been previously plugged into your PC and your PC
operating system is not Windows 7, the A200 driver needs to be loaded onto
your PC.

Drivers should be loaded before plugging the A200 into the PC.

The A200 drivers can be downloaded, at no charge, from:

www.campbellsci.com/downloads.

8.1.1.2 A200 Wiring

One end of the A200 has a terminal block while the other end has a type B
female USB port. The terminal block provides 12V, G, TX, and RX terminals
for connecting the sensor (see FIGURE 8-1 and TABLE 8-2). A data cable (pn

17648) ships with the A200. This cable has a USB type-A male connector that
attaches to a PC’s USB port, and a type B male connector that attaches to the
A200’s USB port.

14

FIGURE 8-1. A200 Sensor-to-PC Interface

Color

Red 12V +12Vdc

Black G G

White C Tx

Blue G Rx

Yellow G G

Clear Signal Ground G

Sensor
Cable Label

A200
Terminal

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

8.1.1.3 Powering the Sensor

The A200 provides power to the sensor when it is connected to a PC’s USB
port. An internal DC/DC converter boosts the 5 Vdc supply from the USB
connection to a 12 Vdc output is required to power the sensor.

8.1.1.4 Determining which COM Port the A200 has been Assigned

When the A200 driver is loaded, the A200 is assigned a COM port number.
This COM port number is needed when using the Device Configuration Utility
or a PC terminal software such as HyperTerminal.

Often, the assigned COM port will be the next port number that is free.
However, if other devices have been installed in the past (some of which may
no longer be plugged in), the A200 may be assigned a higher COM port
number.

To check which COM port has been assigned to the A200, watch for the
appearance of a new COM port in the list of COM ports offered in the software
package (e.g., LoggerNet) before and after the installation, or look in the
Windows Device Manager list under the ports section (access via the control
panel).

8.1.2 Device Configuration Utility (version 2.03 or higher)

The Device Configuration Utility allows you to change the settings of the
CS451/CS456. Device Configuration Utility is shipped on the Campbell
Scientific ResourceDVD included with the CS451/CS456.

To use Device Configuration Utility, the transducer needs to be connected to
the PC via the A200 (see Section 8.1.1, PC Connection Using the A200). After
installing Device Configuration Utility and connecting the transducer to the
PC, select CS451 from the Device Type list on the left column of the screen.

In the PC Serial Port box, select the COM port that was assigned to the A200
(see Section 8.1.1.4, Determining which COM Port the A200 has been
Assigned). Click on the Connect button to enable communication with the
sensor. Once successfully connected, the screen should look like FIGURE 8-2.

15

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

NOTE

FIGURE 8-2. Connect screen

There are three settings that can be changed: SDI-12 address, Pressure/Level
Units, and Temperature Units. Double-click on the window of the units to be
changed. This will open a pick menu box. Select the desired units and Apply
the changes.

8.2 SDI-12 Commands

This section briefly describes using the SDI-12 commands.
Additional SDI-12 information is available at Appendix D,

SDI-12 Sensor Support, www.sdi-12.org, or

www.youtube.com/user/CampbellScientific

The CS451/CS456 uses an SDI-12 compatible hardware interface and supports
a subset of the SDI-12 commands. The most commonly used command is the
aM! command, issued by the datalogger, where a represents the sensor
address. The communication sequence begins with the datalogger waking the
sensor and issuing the aM! command. The transducer responds to the
datalogger indicating that two measurements will be ready within two seconds.
Subsequent communications handle data reporting from the sensor to the
datalogger.

The SDI-12 protocol has the ability to support various measurement
commands. The CS451/CS456 supports the commands that are listed in
TABLE 8-3.

.

16

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

TABLE 8-3. SDI-12 Commands

SDI-12 Command Command Function Values Returned

aM! Configured settings Pressure/Level,

Temperature

aM1! PSIG, °C Pressure, Temperature

aM2! PSIG, °F Pressure, Temperature

aM3! kPa, °C Pressure, Temperature

aM4! kPa, °F Pressure, Temperature

aM5! Sensor’s Serial Number Serial Number

aM6! Ohms, ohms, °C

aM7! Configured settings

(provides data in less than

0.8 seconds)

aM8! Configured settings

(provides average of data
based on user selected
samples)

As measurement data is transferred between the probe and datalogger digitally,
there are no offset errors incurred with increasing cable length as seen with
analog sensors. However, with increasing cable length, there is still a point
when digital communications break down, resulting in either no response or
excessive SDI-12 retries and incorrect data due to noise problems. (Using
SDI-12 commands like aMC!, which adds a CRC check, can significantly
improve incorrect data issues.)

8.3 Measuring Multiple SDI-12 Sensors

Up to ten CS451/CS456 sensors or other SDI-12 sensors can be connected to a
single datalogger control port. Each SDI-12 device must have a unique SDI-12
address of 0 and 9, A to Z, or a to z. See Appendix D, SDI-12 Sensor Support,
for more information.

∆R, Rb, Temperature

Pressure/Level

Pressure/Level,
Temperature

9. Maintenance

Campbell Scientific recommends that the CS451/CS456 be factory recalibrated
and checked every 24 months. Before a CS451/CS456 sensor is sent to
Campbell Scientific, the customer must get an RMA (returned material
authorization) number, and fill out the Declaration of Hazardous Material and
Decontamination form.

The CS451/CS456 has no user-serviceable parts. Cable can be damaged by
abrasion, rodents, sharp objects, twisting, crimping or crushing, and pulling.
Take care during installation and use to avoid cable damage. If a section of
cable is damaged, it is recommended that you send your sensor back to replace
the bale harness assembly.

17

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

Periodic evaluation of the desiccant is vital for keeping the vent tube dry. The
CS451/CS456 ships with the desiccant tube attached. To assess the
effectiveness of the desiccant, use one of the following:

• The desiccant in the tube changes color from blue to pink when the

drying power is lost.

• The Enclosure Accessory Humidity Indicator Card (pn 28878).

9.1 Every Visit

• Collect data.

• Visually inspect wiring and physical conditions.

• Check indicating desiccant or enclosure humidity indicator; service if

necessary.

• Check battery condition (inspect physical appearance and use a keyboard

display, PDA, or laptop to view the battery voltage).

• Check all sensor readings; adjust transducer offsets if necessary.

• Check recent data.

9.2 Every Two to Three Years or on a Rotating Schedule

• Send the CS451/CS456 in for inspection.

10. Troubleshooting

The most common causes for erroneous pressure transducer data include:

• poor sensor connections to the datalogger

• damaged cables

• damaged transducers

• moisture in the vent tube

Problem:

Unit will not respond when attempting serial communications.

Suggestion:

Check the power (red is +V and black is ground) and signal (white is SDI-12
data) lines to ensure proper connection to the datalogger. Check the datalogger
program to ensure that the same port the SDI-12 data line is connected to is
specified in the measurement instruction.

18

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

Problem:

Transducer appears to be operating properly but data shows a periodic or cyclic
fluctuation not attributable to water level changes.

Suggestion:

A kinked or plugged vent tube will not effectively vent a gauge pressure
(Vented) type of device. Normal changes in barometric pressure will appear as
water level fluctuations and these types of errors are typically on the order of 1
foot of water level. If the desiccant chamber has not been properly maintained,
water may have condensed in the vent tube and the device should be returned
to the factory for service.

19

CS451/CS456 Submersible Pressure Transducer

20

NOTE

Appendix A. Importing Short Cut Code

This tutorial shows:

• How to import a Short Cut program into a program editor for

additional refinement

• How to import a wiring diagram from Short Cut into the comments of

a custom program

A.1 Importing Short Cut Code into a Program Editor

Short Cut creates files that can be imported into either CRBasic Editor or
Edlog program editor. These files normally reside in the

C:\campbellsci\SCWin folder and have the following extensions:

• .DEF (wiring and memory usage information)

• .CR2 (CR200(X) datalogger code)

• .CR1 (CR1000 datalogger code)

• .CR8 (CR800 datalogger code)

• .CR3 (CR3000 datalogger code)

• .CR5 (CR5000 datalogger code)

• .DLD (contain code for CR10(X), CR23X, CR500, or CR510

dataloggers)

The following procedures show how to import these files for editing.

A.1.1 CRBasic Datalogger

Use the following procedure to import Short Cut code into CRBasic Editor
(CR200(X), CR1000, CR800, CR3000, CR5000 dataloggers).

1. Create the Short Cut program following the procedure in Section 4,
Quickstart. Finish the program and exit Short Cut. Make note of the file
name used when saving the Short Cut program.

2. Open CRBasic Editor.

3. Click File | Open. Assuming the default paths were used when Short Cut
was installed, navigate to C:\CampbellSci\SCWin folder. The file of
interest has a “.CR2”, “.CR1”, “.CR8”, “.CR3, or “.CR5” extension, for
CR200(X), CR1000, CR800, CR3000, or CR5000 dataloggers,
respectively. Select the file and click Open.

4. Immediately save the file in a folder different from \Campbellsci\SCWin,
or save the file with a different file name.

Once the file is edited with CRBasic Editor, Short Cut can no
longer be used to edit the datalogger program. Change the name
of the program file or move it, or Short Cut may overwrite it next
time it is used.

A-1

Appendix A. Importing Short Cut Code

NOTE

5. The program can now be edited, saved, and sent to the datalogger.

6. Import wiring information to the program by opening the associated .DEF
file. Copy and paste the section beginning with heading “-Wiring for
CRXXX–” into the CRBasic program, usually at the head of the file.
After pasting, edit the information such that a ' character (single quotation
mark) begins each line. This character instructs the datalogger compiler to
ignore the line when compiling the datalogger code.

A.1.2 Edlog

Use the following procedure to import Short Cut code into the Edlog program
editor (CR10(X), CR500, CR510, and CR23X dataloggers).

1. Create the Short Cut program following the procedure in Section 4,
Quickstart. Finish the program and exit Short Cut. Make note of the file
name used when saving the Short Cut program.

2. Open Edlog.

3. Click File | Document DLD File. Assuming the default paths were used
when Short Cut was installed, navigate to C:\CampbellSci\SCWin folder.
The file of interest has a “.DLD” extension. Select the file and click
Open. The .dld file, which is a type of ASCII machine code, is imported,
documented, and, when saved, given a “.CSI” extension.

4. Immediately save the file in a folder different from \Campbellsci\SCWin,
or save the file with a different file name.

Once the file is edited with Edlog, Short Cut can no longer be used
to edit the program. Change the name of the program file or move
it, or Short Cut may overwrite it.

5. The program can now be edited, saved, and sent to the datalogger.

6. Import wiring information to the program by opening the associated .DEF
file. Copy and paste the section beginning with heading “-Wiring for
CRXXX–” into the Edlog program, usually at the head of the file. After
pasting, edit the information such that a ; (semicolon) begins each line,
which instructs the datalogger compiler to ignore the line when compiling
the datalogger code.

A-2

Appendix B. Example Programs

B.1 CRBasic Programs

B.1.1 Example Program for CR200(X)-Series Datalogger

'CR200(X) Series

'Declare the variable for the water level measurement
Public CS451(2)

'Rename the variable names
Alias CS451(1)=Level
Alias CS451(2)=Temp_C

'Define a data table for 60 minute maximum and minimums
DataTable(Hourly,True,-1)
DataInterval(0,60,Min)
Maximum(1,Level,0,0)
Minimum(1,Level,0,0)
Maximum(1,Temp_C,0,0)
Minimum(1,Temp_C,0,0)
EndTable

'Read sensor every 60 seconds
BeginProg
Scan(60,sec)

'Code for SDI-12 measurements:
SDI12Recorder(CS451,0M!,1,0)

'Call the data table:
CallTable(Hourly)

NextScan
EndProg

B-1

Appendix B. Example Programs

B.1.2 Example Program for CR1000 Datalogger

'CR1000 Series Datalogger

'Declare the variable for the water level measurement
Public CS451(2)

'Rename the variable names
Alias CS451(1)=Level
Alias CS451(2)=Temp_C

'Define a data table for 60 minute maximum and minimums
DataTable(Hourly,True,-1)
DataInterval(0,60,Min,10)
Maximum(1,Level,FP2,0,0)
Minimum(1,Level,FP2,0,0)
Maximum(1,Temp_C,FP2,0,0)
Minimum(1,Temp_C,FP2,0,0)
EndTable

'Read sensor every 60 seconds
BeginProg
Scan(60,sec,1,0)

'Code for SDI-12 measurements:
SDI12Recorder(CS451,1,”0”,”M!”,1,0)

'Call the data table:
CallTable(Hourly)

NextScan
EndProg

B-2

Appendix B. Example Programs

NOTE

B.2 Example Program for CR10(X) Dataloggers

Below is a portion of a CR10X program that measures the CS451/CS456.

The instructions below do not store data in final storage.
Instruction 92, Instruction 77, and processing instructions such as
Instruction 70 are required to store the data permanently.

;{CR10X}
;
*Table 1 Program
01: 60 Execution Interval (seconds)

1: SDI-12 Recorder (P105)
1: 0 SDI-12 Address
2: 0 Start Measurement (aM0!)
3: 1 Port ;this is where the white wire is connected
4: 1 Loc[Data_1 ]
5: 1.0 Mult
6: 0.0 Offset

*Table 2 Program
02: 0.000 Execution Interval (seconds)

*Table 3 Subroutines

End Program

After Instruction 105 is executed, the input location called “Data_1” will hold
the measured pressure, reported in PSI, and the input location called Data_2
will hold the measured temperature, in degrees Celsius. The results can be
further processed by the datalogger. Note that Port 1 specifies that the SDI-12
data line is to be connected to the Port C1.

B-3

Appendix B. Example Programs

B-4

Appendix C. Calibration Certificate

Each CS451/CS456 has been calibrated to meet printed accuracy specification
at multiple temperature and pressure ranges. If additional verification is
required, a Calibration Certificate can be purchased for each CS451/CS456
Submersible Pressure Transducer.

The Instrument Data Report provides a list of the pressure and temperature at
which the sensor was tested.

Pressure [kPa] is the pressure applied (listed in kilopascals) to the sensor.
Temperature [°C] is the temperature inside the test chamber at the time of
testing. Pressure After [kPa] represents the resulting measurement output by
the CS451/CS456 at the give pressure and temperature. Finally, Deviation
After [%F.S.], provides the difference between the actual pressure applied to
the sensor and the pressure measurement output by the sensor. This value is
listed as a percentage of the Full Scale range of the sensor.

When a CS451/CS456 is returned to Campbell Scientific for calibration, the
sensor will be returned with an Instrument Data Report. This report will
include values in the Pressure Before [kPa] column. These values represent the
measured pressure the sensor returns at the specified pressure and temperature,
BEFORE calibration.

C-1

Appendix C. Calibration Certificate

C-2

TABLE D-1. SDI-12 Command and Response Set

Appendix D. SDI-12 Sensor Support

D.1 SDI-12 Command Basics

SDI-12 commands have three components:

Sensor address (a) – a single character, and is the first character of the
command. The default address of zero (0) can be used unless multiple sensors
are connected to the same port.

Command body (e.g., M1) – an upper case letter (the “command”) followed by
alphanumeric qualifiers.

Command termination (!) – an exclamation mark.

An active sensor responds to each command. Responses have several standard
forms and terminate with <CR><LF> (carriage return – line feed). Standard
SDI-12 commands supported by the CS451/CS456 are listed in TABLE D-1.
Appendix D.3 provides advanced commands.

Name Command Response

Acknowledge
Active

Send
Identification

Change
Address

Address
Query

Start
Measurement

Send Data aD0! a<values><CR><LF>

Start
Verification

a! a<CR><LF>

aI! allccccccccmmmmmmvvvxxx...xx<CR><LF>

aAb! b<CR><LF>

?! a<CR><LF>

aM! atttn<CR><LF>

aV! atttn

D.1.1 Address Query Command (?!)

Command ?! requests the address of the connected sensor. The sensor replies
to the query with the address, a.

D.1.2 Change Address Command (aAb!)

Sensor address is changed with command aAb!, where a is the current address
and b is the new address. For example, to change an address from 0 to 2, the
command is 0A2!. The sensor responds with the new address b, which in this
case is 2.

D-1

Appendix D. SDI-12 Sensor Support

D.1.3 Send Identification Command (aI!)

Sensor identifiers are requested by issuing command aI!. The reply is defined
by the sensor manufacturer, but usually includes the sensor address, SDI-12
version, manufacturer’s name, and sensor model information. Serial number or
other sensor specific information may also be included.

An example of a response from the aI! command is:

013CSI451.Std.01_12345678

Where:

SDI-12 version = 1.3

Manufacturer = CSI

Sensor model = 451

Operating System = .Std 01

Sensor serial number = 12345678

D.1.4 Start Measurement Commands (aM!)

A measurement is initiated with M! commands. The response to each
command has the form atttnn, where

a = sensor address

ttt = time, in seconds, until measurement data are available

nn = the number of values to be returned when one or more subsequent D!

commands are issued.

D.1.5 Aborting a Measurement Command

A measurement command (M!) is aborted when any other valid command is
sent to the sensor.

D.1.6 Send Data Command (aDv!)

This command requests data from the sensor. It is normally issued
automatically by the datalogger after measurement commands aMv!. In
transparent mode, the user asserts this command to obtain data. If the expected
number of data values are not returned in response to an aD0! command, the
datalogger issues aD1!. TABLE D-2 shows the values returned when using the
send data command.

D-2

Appendix D. SDI-12 Sensor Support

TABLE D-2. SDI-12 Commands

SDI-12 Command Command Function Values Returned

aD! Configured settings Pressure/Level,

Temperature

aD1! psig, °C Pressure, Temperature

aD2! psig, °F Pressure, Temperature

aD3! kPa, °C Pressure, Temperature

aD4! kPa, °F Pressure, Temperature

aD5! Sensor’s Serial Number Serial Number

aD6! Ohms, ohms, °C

aD7! Configured settings

(provides data in less than

0.8 seconds)

aD8! Configured settings

(provides average of data
based on user selected
samples)

D.2 SDI-12 Transparent Mode

System operators can manually interrogate and enter settings in probes using
transparent mode. Transparent mode is useful in troubleshooting SDI-12
systems because it allows direct communication with probes. Datalogger
security may need to be unlocked before transparent mode can be activated.

Transparent mode is entered while the PC is in telecommunications with the
datalogger through a terminal emulator program. It is easily accessed through
Campbell Scientific datalogger support software, but is also accessible with
terminal emulator programs such as Windows HyperTerminal. Datalogger
keyboards and displays cannot be used.

The terminal emulator is accessed by navigating to the Datalogger menu in
PC200W, the Tools menu in PC400, or the Datalogger menu in the Connect
screen of LoggerNet.

∆R, Rb, Temperature

Pressure/Level

Pressure/Level,
Temperature

D.2.1 CR200(X) Series Datalogger Example

The following examples show how to use LoggerNet software to enter
transparent mode and change the SDI-12 address of a CS451/CS456 sensor.
The same steps are used to enter transparent mode with PC200W and PC400
software after accessing the terminal emulator as previously described.

1. Connect a single CS451/CS456 to the CR200(X) (see TABLE 7-1).

2. In the LoggerNet Connect screen navigate to the Datalogger menu and

select Terminal Emulator. The terminal emulator window will open. In
the Select Device menu, located in the lower left-hand side of the window,
select the CR200Series station.

D-3

Appendix D. SDI-12 Sensor Support

3. Click on the Open Terminal button.

4. Press the <enter> key until the datalogger responds with the CR2XX>

5. To query the CS451/CS456 for its current SDI-12 address, key in ?!

6. To change the SDI-12 address, key in aAb! <enter>, where a is the current

prompt. At the CR2XX> prompt, make sure the All Caps Mode box is
checked and enter the command SDI12 <enter>. The response SDI12>
indicates that the CS451/CS456 is ready to accept SDI-12 commands.

<enter> and the CS451/CS456 will respond with its SDI-12 address. If no
characters are typed within 60 seconds, then the mode is exited. In that
case, simply enter the command SDI12 again and press <enter>.

address from the above step and b is the new address (see FIGURE D-1).
The CS451/CS456 will change its address and the datalogger will respond
with the new address. To exit SDI-12 transparent mode select the Close
Terminal button.

FIGURE D-1. CR200(X) example of using the SDI-12 transparent

mode to change the SDI-12 address from 0 to 1.

D.2.2 CR1000 Datalogger Example

1. Connect a CS451/CS456 to the CR1000 (see TABLE 7-1).

2. In the LoggerNet Connect screen, navigate to the Datalogger menu and
select Terminal Emulator. The terminal emulator window will open. In
the Select Device menu, located in the lower left-hand side of the window,
select the CR1000 station.

3. Click on the Open Terminal button.

4. Press the <enter> key until the datalogger responds with the CR1000>
prompt. At the CR1000> prompt, make sure the All Caps Mode box is
checked and enter the command SDI12 <enter>. At the Enter Cx Port 1,
3, 5, or 7 prompt, key in the control port number where the CS451/CS456
is connected and press <enter>. The response Entering SDI12 Terminal
indicates that the CS451/CS456 is ready to accept SDI-12 commands.

5. To query the CS451/CS456 for its current SDI-12 address, key in ?!
<enter> and the CS451/CS456 will respond with its SDI-12 address. If no

D-4

Appendix D. SDI-12 Sensor Support

characters are typed within 60 seconds, then the mode is exited. In that
case, simply enter the command SDI12 again, press <enter>, and key in
the correct control port number when prompted.

6. To change the SDI-12 address, key in aAb! <enter>, where a is the current

address from the above step and b is the new address (see FIGURE D-2).
The CS451/CS456 will change its address and the datalogger will respond
with the new address. To exit SDI-12 transparent mode, select the Close
Terminal button.

FIGURE D-2. CR1000 example of using the SDI-12 transparent mode

to change the SDI-12 address from 3 to 1. Sensor is connected to
control port 1.

D.3 Advanced SDI-12 Commands

Extended SDI-12 commands can be used to configure the CS451/CS456 data
output and sample number. To query the sensor for the configuration, use the
aV! command followed by the aD! command.

The extended commands are used to select the temperature units (Celsius or
Fahrenheit), pressure/level units (psig, kPa, bar, feet, meter, inches, or
millimeter), and the integration time for each measurement. If level units are
selected, they will represent level of fresh water. The multiplier (slope) and
offset should be used to correct for relative density of water.

Sample number represents the number of values used to provide the output
value received by the datalogger. This output value is an average of the
samples.

The extended SDI-12 command used to configure output units is
aXCONFIG1=tt,pp,mmm.mm,ooo.oo! where a = the SDI-12 address of the
sensor, tt = temperature units, pp = measurement unit, mmm.mm = multiplier
(slope), and ooo.oo = offset.

Valid entries for tt (temperature) are:

0 = Celsius
1 = Fahrenheit

D-5

Appendix D. SDI-12 Sensor Support

and valid entries for pp (pressure/level) are:

0 = psig
1 = kPa
2 = bar
3 = feet
4 = meter
5 = inch
6 = millimeter

Only SDI-12 instruction aM!, aM7!, and aM8! output the results obtained
when using the multiplier and offset. The multiplier and offset are only applied
to the pressure/level value, not to the temperature.

The extended SDI-12 command used to configure sample number is
aXCONFIG2=nnn!, where nnn is the number of samples that will be
measured to obtain the final output value, which is an average of the samples
taken. This value only applies to the aM8! command. The integration time is
a result of the number of samples selected. This value can be derived by
adding 2 s to the number of samples. For example, if nnn = 50, then 50
samples would be averaged. The integration time for this process is 50 plus 2,
or 52 s.

D-6

TABLE E-1. RS-232 Settings

NOTE

Appendix E. RS-232 Connection Via PC Terminal Software

PC terminal software can be used to communicate with the CS451/CS456 via
the RS-232 communication mode (see FIGURE E-1).

The CS451/CS456 is connected to the PC via the A200 (see Section 8.1.1, PC
Connection Using the A200).

Upon setup, the terminal emulator software will request you enter the
Communication connection; defaults to a phone connection. Change the
communication to appropriate “Com” in the “Connect Using” box (see Section

8.1.1.4, Determining which COM Port the A200 has been Assigned, to
determine the COM port that was assigned to the A200). The software will
then prompt for the proper “Port Settings”. TABLE E-1 shows the RS-232
settings.

Bits per Second 9600

Data bits 8

Parity None

Stop bits 1

Flow control None

You will now be able to communicate with the CS451/CS456. At the prompt,
push the <Enter> key several times. This will wake-up the RS-232 mode of
the sensor. TABLE E-2 shows the RS-232 commands that can be entered once
it is in the RS-232 mode.

By default, the CS451/CS456 is in the SDI-12 mode for
communication. Once in the RS-232 mode, if there is no
communication for 20 s, the sensor will return to the SDI-12 mode.

E-1

Appendix E. RS-232 Connection Via PC Terminal Software

TABLE E-2. RS-232 Terminal Commands

FIGURE E-1. Terminal Emulator

Terminal Commands Values Returned

1 Serial Number, Pressure/Level, Temperature

(in configured units)

2 Serial Number, Pressure (kPa), Temperature

(°C)

3

Serial Number, ∆R(ohms), Rb(ohms),
Temperature (°C), Element Serial Number,
Product Name

5 Copyright information, OS Version and Date,

Serial Number, Element Serial Number,
Product Name, User Defined Name (Station
Name), SDI-12 Address

H or h Help menu

E-2

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