Campbell Scientific SDI-12 User Manual

Revision: 02/2021

Copyright © 2020 – 2021

Campbell Scientific, Inc.

Table of contents

1. Introduction 1

2. Precautions 1

3. Initial inspection 1

4. QuickStart 2

5. Overview 4

6. Specifications 5

7. Installation 6

7.1 Wiring 6

7.2 Data logger programming 7

7.2.1 SDI-12 programming 7

7.3 Siting 8

7.4 Mounting 8

8. Operation 13

8.1 SDI-12 measurements 13

8.2 SDI-12 extended commands 15

8.3 SDI-12 version 1.4 identify measurement commands and responses 17

8.4 Rainfall intensity correction 19

8.5 Device Configuration Utility 19

9. Maintenance and troubleshooting 24

9.1 Maintenance 25

9.1.1 Internal lithium battery 25

9.1.2 Updating operating system 26

9.2 Troubleshooting 27

Appendix A. Importing Short Cut code into CRBasic Editor 29

Appendix B. XTEST! operation 30

Appendix C. SDI-12 sensor support 32

C.1 SDI-12 command basics 32

Table of Contents - i

C.1.1 Acknowledge active command (a!) 33
C.1.2 Send identification command (al!) 33
C.1.3 Start verification command (aV!) 34
C.1.4 Address query command (?!) 34
C.1.5 Change address command (aAb!) 34
C.1.6 Start measurement commands (aM!) 35
C.1.7 Start concurrent measurement commands (aC!) 35
C.1.8 Start measurement commands with cyclic redundancy check (aMC! and aCC!) 37
C.1.9 Stopping a measurement command 37
C.1.10 Send data command (aD0! … aD9!) 37
C.1.11 Continuous measurement command (aR0! … aR9!) 38
C.1.12 Extended commands 38

C.2 SDI-12 transparent mode 38

C.2.1 Changing an SDI-12 address 39

C.3 References 41

Table of Contents - ii

1. Introduction

The RainVUE-series rain sensors are an ideal solution for many hydrological or meteorological
applications such as weather stations and flood warning systems. The models differ in their body
material; the RainVUE™10 has a molded UV-stabilized plastic body and the RainVUE™20 has a
rugged aluminum body. A microprocessor corrects for rainfall intensity and outputs an SDI-12
signal to communicate with any SDI-12 recorder including Campbell Scientific data loggers.

NOTE:
The RainVUE-series rain sensors are compatible with all data loggers that support SDI-12
communications. This manual focuses on Campbell Scientific CRBasic data loggers.

2. Precautions

l READ AND UNDERSTAND the Safety section at the back of this manual.

l RainVUE-series is a precision instrument that must be handled with care.

l Remove the piece of foam from under the tipping mechanism. This foam may be saved and

used whenever the sensor is transported.

l Pull and remove the insulator tab used to prevent draining of the backup coin cell battery

during shipping and storage. The tab extends from the bottom of the RainVUE-series
interface inside the RainVUE-series.

3. Initial inspection

l Check the packaging and contents of the shipment. If damage occurred during transport,

immediately file a claim with the carrier. Contact Campbell Scientific to facilitate repair or
replacement.

l Check model information against the shipping documents to ensure the expected products

and the correct lengths of cable are received. Model numbers are found on each product.
On cables and cabled items, the model number is usually found at the connection end of
the cable. Report any shortages immediately to Campbell Scientific.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 1

4. QuickStart

A video that describes data logger programming using Short Cut is available at:

www.campbellsci.com/videos/cr1000x-data logger-getting-started-program-part-3 . Short Cut

is an easy way to program your data logger to measure the sensor and assign data logger wiring
terminals. Short Cut is available as a download on www.campbellsci.com . It is included in

installations of LoggerNet, RTDAQ, and PC400.

The following procedure also shows using Short Cut to program the RainVUE-series.

1. Open Short Cut and click Create New Program.

2. Double-click the data logger model.

3. In the Available Sensors and Devices box, type RainVUE or find the sensor in the Sensors >
Meteorological > Precipitation folder, and double-click RainVUE10/RainVUE20 Rain
Gauge. Enter the correct SDI-12 Address for the sensor if it has been changed from the
factory-set default value. Type the numeric month and day for resetting the total
accumulation if you want to do this. Otherwise, uncheck the Reset total intensity corrected
accumulation once a year box.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 2

4. Click the Wiring tab. Click OK after wiring the sensor.

5. Repeat steps three and four for other sensors you want to measure. Click Next.

6. In Output Setup, type the scan rate, a Table Name, and Data Output Storage Interval. Click
Next.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 3

7. Select the output options.

8. Click Finish and save the program. Send the program to the data logger if the data logger
is connected to the computer.

9. If the sensor is connected to the data logger, check the output of the sensor in the data
display in LoggerNet, RTDAQ, or PC400 to make sure it is making reasonable
measurements.

5. Overview

The RainVUE-series funnels rainfall through a stainless-steel screen that traps debris, preventing
it from impeding the flow of precipitation. Rainfall flows through a nozzle into one of two bucket
halves. The internal tipping mechanism assembly rotates around a pivot point. The tipping
mechanism tips when the first bucket fills to a fixed calibrated level, then the tipping mechanism
moves the second bucket under the funnel. A magnet attached to the tipping mechanism
actuates a reed switch as the bucket tips. The outgoing water drains through outlets.

The aerodynamic design of the RainVUE-series reduces the amount of rain that wind carries away
from the collecting vessel. With traditional cylindrical tipping bucket rain sensors, wind can
reduce the rainfall catch by up to 20%. The RainVUE-series also includes a microprocessor that
corrects for rainfall intensity and outputs an SDI-12 signal. Refer to Rainfall intensity correction (p.

19) for more information.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 4

Features:

l Suitable for nonfreezing precipitation and high intensity rain events
l Digital processing to correct for high-intensity precipitation errors (see Specifications (p. 5))
l Unique aerodynamic shape increases measurement accuracy in windy conditions
l Meets WMO recommendations for accuracy and funnel area
l Adjustable mounting feet to simplify leveling
l Tilt, internal temperature, and voltage measurement for remote diagnostics on the sensor
l Compatible CRBasic data loggers: GRANITE-series, CR6, CR3000, CR1000X, CR800-series,

CR300-series, and CR1000

6. Specifications

Sensor type:

Rainfall per tip:

Output:

Response time:

Tipping bucket with magnetic reed switch

0.01 in (0.254 mm) or 0.1 mm (0.004 in)

SDI-12 version 1.4

0 s for

M0!

command and 1 s for

M1!

command

Accuracy

Rainfall: ±1% at 0 to 500 mm/h (0 to 20 in/hr) intensity

NOTE:
Accuracy over the rain intensity range requires a mechanical
calibration that is within 1% at a 1 in/h intensity. RainVUE-series
sensors are calibrated at the factory to meet this specification but
should be verified prior to deployment.

Tilt:

Temperature:

Supply voltage:

±1 °

±0.25 °C (±0.45 °F)

±0.5 V

Operating temperature:

Funnel diameter:

Height:

Power:

1 to 70 °C (34 to 158 °F)

20.0 cm (7.87 in)

43.5 to 46.5 cm (17.1 to 18.3 in) with feet adjustment

6 to 18 VDC

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 5

Compliance documents: View at:

www.campbellsci.com/rainvue10
www.campbellsci.com/rainvue20

Table 6-1: RainVUE-series comparison

Specification RainVUE 10 RainVUE 20

Maximum rainfall intensity 1000 mm/h (39.4 in/h) 1500 mm/h (60 in/h)

Main collector body: 2-mm thick,

Material White, ASA LI-911 plastic

Weight 2 kg (4.5 lb) 6 kg (13 lb)

powder-coated aluminum

Base: LM6 marine-grade aluminum

7. Installation

If you are programming your data logger with Short Cut, skip Wiring (p. 6), and Data logger

programming (p. 7). Short Cut does this work for you. See QuickStart (p. 2), for a Short Cut

tutorial.

7.1 Wiring

Connect the wires in the order shown in the following table.

Table 7-1: Wire color, function, and data logger connection

Wire color Wire function Data logger connection

White SDI-12 signal C, SDI-12, or U configured for SDI-12

Clear Shield ⏚ (analog ground)

Brown Power 12V

Black Power ground G

1

U and C terminals are automatically configured by the measurement instruction.

If multiple SDI-12 sensors are connected to a data logger, Campbell Scientific recommends using
separate terminals when possible. However, multiple SDI-12 sensors can connect to the same
data logger control or U terminal. Each must have a unique SDI-12 address. Valid addresses are 0
through 9, a through z, and A through Z.

1

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 6

For the CR6 and CR1000X data loggers, triggering conflicts may occur when a companion
terminal is used for a triggering instruction such as TimerInput(), PulseCount(), or

WaitDigTrig(). For example, if the RainVUE-series is connected to C3 on a CR1000X, C4

cannot be used in the TimerInput(), PulseCount(), or WaitDigTrig() instructions.

7.2 Data logger programming

Short Cut is the best source for up-to-date programming code for Campbell Scientific data
loggers. If your data acquisition requirements are simple, you can probably create and maintain a
data logger 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.

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

A Short Cut tutorial is available in QuickStart (p. 2). If you wish to import Short Cut code into
CRBasic Editor to create or add to a customized program, follow the procedure in Importing

Short Cut code into CRBasic Editor (p. 29). Programming basics for CRBasic data loggers are

provided in the following sections. Downloadable example program is available at

www.campbellsci.com/downloads/rainvue-example-program .

7.2.1 SDI-12 programming

The SDI12Recorder() instruction is used to measure a RainVUE-series. This instruction sends
a request to the sensor to make a measurement and then retrieves the measurement from the
sensor. See SDI-12 measurements (p. 13) for more information.

For most data loggers, the SDI12Recorder() instruction has the following syntax:

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

Offset, FillNAN, WaitonTimeout)

For the SDIAddress, alphabetical characters need to be enclosed in quotes (for example,
“A”). Also enclose the SDICommand in quotes as shown. The Destination parameter must

be an array. The required number of values in the array depends on the command (see Table 8-1
(p. 14)).

FillNAN and WaitonTimeout are optional parameters (refer to CRBasic Help for more
information).

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 7

7.3 Siting

Mount the RainVUE-series in a relatively level location representative of the surrounding area.
Ensure that the funnel is horizontal. Place the sensor away from objects that obstruct the wind.
The distance should be at least 2 times the height of the obstruction. A concrete pad is
recommended, but the RainVUE-series should not be installed over a large paved or concrete
surface.

7.4 Mounting

The RainVUE-series has three equally-spaced leveling feet. Next to each leveling foot is a hole for
securing the sensor to a flat surface. The CM241 mounting bracket offered by Campbell Scientific
allows the RainVUE-series to be mounted on a CM300-series mounting pole or to a user­supplied 1.5 in. IPS (1.9 in. OD) unthreaded pipe.

Mounting poles are placed directly into a concrete foundation, attached to a concrete
foundation with the J-bolts, or are self-supporting with three legs (see FIGURE 7-1 (p. 9)).

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 8

FIGURE 7-1. CM300-series mounting options

Procedure for mounting to a CM241 bracket and leveling the sensor:

1. Loosen and remove the three base thumb screws then lift the funnel upward.

FIGURE 7-2. Thumbscrew on RainVUE 20

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 9

2. Remove the wing nuts and washers from the CM241 mounting bracket.

FIGURE 7-3. CM241 mounting bracket

3. Line up the RainVUE-series mounting holes over the CM241 mounting bolts and place the
sensor on the bracket.

FIGURE 7-4. Exploded view of RainVUE-series and CM241 bracket.

Wing nuts and pole not shown.

4. Loosely secure the RainVUE-series to the CM241 using the washers and wing nuts.

5. Place the CM241 on the pole or pipe and secure it to the pole or pipe by tightening the
screws with a Philips screwdriver (see FIGURE 7-3 (p. 10) and FIGURE 7-7 (p. 12)).

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 10

6. Adjust the three leveling feet on the RainVUE-series to level the RainVUE-series. The
RainVUE 10 has a bubble level next to a leveling foot. On the RainVUE 20, the funnel needs
to be removed to view the bubble level. See FIGURE 7-5 (p. 11).

FIGURE 7-5. Bubble levels on the RainVUE-series

7. Once level, tighten the wing nuts by hand until hand-tight and recheck the level.

8. Remove the piece of foam from under the tipping mechanism. This foam may be saved and
used whenever the sensor is transported.

9. Tip the tipping assembly several times to ensure the tipping mechanism is moving freely.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 11

10. Pull and remove the insulator tab used to prevent draining of the backup coin cell battery
during shipping and storage. The tab extends from the bottom of the RainVUE-series
interface inside the RainVUE-series.

FIGURE 7-6. RainVUE-series interface and insulator tab

11. Replace the funnel and tighten the three base thumb screws to secure the funnel to the
base.

FIGURE 7-7. RainVUE-series mounted on a pole

12. Mate the extension cable connector to the cable connector. Only hand tighten the
connectors.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 12

8. Operation

This section discusses the following:

8.1 SDI-12 measurements 13

8.2 SDI-12 extended commands 15

8.3 SDI-12 version 1.4 identify measurement commands and responses 17

8.4 Rainfall intensity correction 19

8.5 Device Configuration Utility 19

8.1 SDI-12 measurements

The RainVUE-series responds to the SDI-12 measurement commands shown in Table 8-1 (p. 14).
When the data logger issues an M! command, the sensor should respond immediately indicating
how long it will take to perform the measurement. The data logger then waits that amount of
time or if the sensor finishes sooner, it will send a service request to the data logger indicating
data can be collected. After receiving the service request or waiting the indicated time, the data
logger will send the D! command to collect the data.

The C! command follows the same pattern as an M! command with the exception that it does
not require the data logger to pause its operation until the values are ready. Rather, the data
logger retrieves the data with the D! command on the next scan through the program. Another
measurement request is then sent so that data are ready on the next scan.

NOTE:

SDI-12 sensor support (p. 32) describes the SDI-12 commands. Additional SDI-12 information

is available at www.sdi-12.org .

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 13

Table 8-1: SDI-12 measurement commands

SDI-12 command

aM!, aMC!,

aC!, aCC!,

aR0!, aRC0!

1

Values returned Units Comments

1. Intensity corrected

accumulation since last M, MC,
C, CC, R0, or RC0 command
was issued.

2. Number of raw bucket tips
since last measurement

3. Total intensity corrected
accumulation since reset

4. Average precipitation intensity
since last measurement

5. Maximum (peak) intensity
since last measurement

1. Supply voltage

2. Temperature

1. mm or inch

2. Counts

3. mm or inch

4. mm/hr or in/hr

5. mm/hr or in/hr

1. VDC

2. °C

Command

resets

accumulators

aM1!

aMC1!, aC1!,

aCC1!, aRC1!

3. Sensor level

4. Time since last measurable
precipitation event

5. Lithium battery voltage

1. Supply voltage

2. Temperature

3. Sensor level

4. Time since last measurable
precipitation event

5. Lithium battery voltage

3. Degrees from
normal, flat

4. Days

5. VDC

1. VDC

2. °C

Command

3. Degrees from

resets

normal, flat

accumulators

4. Days

5. VDC

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 14

Table 8-1: SDI-12 measurement commands

SDI-12 command

aR9!

aI!

1

1. Intensity corrected

2. Number of raw bucket tips

3. Total intensity corrected

4. Average precipitation intensity

5. Maximum (peak) intensity

014CampbellMMMM100SN=xxxxxx

Where,

MMMM = RV20IN, RV20MM,
RV10IN, or RV10MM

Values returned Units Comments

accumulation since last M
command was issued

since last measurement

accumulation since reset

since last measurement

since last measurement

1. mm or inch

2. Counts

3. mm or inch

4. mm/hr or in/hr

5. mm/hr or in/hr

not applicable (NA)

Command

does not reset

accumulators

xxxxxx = serial number

1. Hardware Revision starting at 1

2. Reset Code

aV!

1

a is the sensor address.

2 = Power On

11=OS Update

12=Watchdog Timeout

NA

8.2 SDI-12 extended commands

Enter the following SDI-12 extended commands using the transparent mode while the computer
is communicating with the data logger through a terminal emulator program. It is accessed
through Campbell Scientific data logger support software or other terminal emulator programs.
Data logger keyboards and displays cannot be used. Refer to SDI-12 transparent mode (p. 38) for
more information.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 15

Table 8-2: SDI-12 extended commands

SDI-12

command

1

aXRDT! Read sensor date and time.

aXWDT+MM/DD/YYYY

hh:mm:ss!

aXWARA!

aXWA+xx.xx!

Where xx.xx = current rain

value

Values returned or function Comments

Write date and time.

Typically this command is

The extended write adjusted rainfall

issued on the start of the

accumulator command. Resets the

water year, which is

total adjusted rain accumulator to

normally October 1 or

0.00.
January 1.

Resets the total adjusted rain to a
current value and returns the number
of values.

Used when replacing the
RainVUE-series midway

Follow this command with the aD0!

through a water year.

command to get the new adjusted
rain.

aXWRESET! Resets all accumulators

Resets RTC or 24 hour tick counter to

aXWD!

midnight.

Zero tilt sensor (XWTILT) status.
Returns a status flag indicating the

aXWTILT!

success of the leveling process.

s = 0 Success

s = 1 Error (cannot zero the sensor)

Reads the tilt angle (degrees) of

aXRTILT!

the tilt sensor.

This command is a simple
way for data loggers to sync
the time clock without
having to format the SDI-12
command.

Mechanically balance the
sensor, then issue this
command.

When this command is
issued right after the sensor
is zeroed, it should return

0.00 degrees. This
command verifies the
RainVUE-series is level.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 16

Table 8-2: SDI-12 extended commands

SDI-12

command

aXTEST!

aXHELP!

1

a is the sensor address.

1

Values returned or function Comments

Returns two lines of header
information, then returns updated
data at every tip and every 2 seconds
or until a break is detected with each
line terminated with a <CR><LF>.

Lists the standard measurement and
extended commands supported by the
RainVUE-series.

Command is only intended
for testing and debugging
the sensor.

Command is only intended
for testing and debugging
the sensor.

8.3 SDI-12 version 1.4 identify measurement commands and responses

Version 1.4 compliant sensors must respond to identify commands for each type of measurement
command and each parameter with a command. The broad identify commands return how many
variables will be returned with a given measurement command and the time it will take the
sensor to respond. The specific identify parameter commands will return a SHEF code, the
measurement units, and the type of measurement (sample, count, or average). For more
information see the SDI-12 version 1.4 specification.

(http://sdi-12.org/current_specification/SDI-12_version-1_4-Jan-10-2019.pdf )

Table 8-3: Identify commands for the RainVUE-series

Type of command Command Sensor response Comment

Identify
measurement for
M commands

Identify
measurement for
C commands

aIM!, aIMC!,

aM1!, aIMC1!

aIC!, aICC!,

aIC1!,

aICC1!

atttn

atttnn

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 17

ttt: response time
(seconds)

n: # of values returned

ttt: response time
(seconds)

nn: # of values returned

Table 8-3: Identify commands for the RainVUE-series

Type of command Command Sensor response Comment

Identify
measurement for the
V command

Identify
measurement for
parameter 1 of
M command

Identify
measurement for
parameter 2 of
M command

Identify
measurement for
parameter 3 of
M command

aIV!

aIM_001!

aIM_002!

aIM_003!

atttn

aAdjRain,Inches

or aAdjRain,mm

aRawTips,Tips

aTotAdjRain,Inches

or aTotAdjRain,mm

ttt: response time
(seconds)

n: # of values returned

AdjRain: adjusted or
intensity-corrected
precipitation since last
measurement

Units: inches or mm

RawTips: number of raw
bucket tips since last
measurement (counts)

Units: counts

TotAdjRain: total
adjusted or total
intensity corrected
precipitation since last
reset

Identify
measurement for
parameter 4 of
M command

Identify
measurement for
parameter 5 of
M command

aIM_004!

aIM_005!

aAvgInt,Inches/Hour

or aAvgInt,mm/Hour

aMaxInt,Inches/Hour

or aMaxInt,mm/Hour

Units: inches or mm

AvgInt: average
precipitation intensity
since last measurement

Units: inches/hour or
mm/hour

MaxInt: maximum peak
precipitation intensity
since last measurement

Units: inches/hour or
mm/hour

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 18

8.4 Rainfall intensity correction

During intense rainfall, extra water can accumulate in the bucket before the tipping mechanism
tips. The following graph shows the relationship between bucket volume and rainfall rate. The
RainVUE-series includes a microprocessor that corrects for the intensity sensitivity of the bucket
mechanism. This correction adjusts the rainfall rate based on the time between bucket tips. An
electronic timer precisely measures the time between tips.

8.5 Device Configuration Utility

Use Device Configuration Utility to change the SDI-12 address, view sensor measurements, collect
data, and update an operating system (see Updating operating system (p. 26)).

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 19

1. Loosen and remove the three base thumb screws then lift the funnel upward.

2. Use a Philips screwdriver to remove the four screws on the RainVUE-series interface.

3. Remove the interface cover to access the USB port.

4. Open Device Configuration Utility.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 20

5. Type RainVUE-series in the Device Type box and click RainVUE-series.

6. If this is the first time connecting the RainVUE-series to the computer, click install USB
driver for the RainVUE before connecting the cable to the computer.

7. Use the supplied USB cable to connect the RainVUE-series USB port to a computer USB
port.

8. Select the Communication Port in the left panel. RAINVUE will appear in the selection
dialog.

NOTE:
It may take a few seconds for the Communication Port to become available for use after
physically connecting the RainVUE-series to the computer.

9. Click Connect.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 21

10. To change the SDI-12 address, click the SDI-12 Address box and select a different value.

11. Click the Status tab to view tip counts, accumulation, and intensity information.

12. Click the Clock Control tab to change the Reference Clock Setting. Click Set Clock to
manually initiate a clock check of the reference time and station time.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 22

13. Click the Data Monitor tab to view real-time data. From the list, select the table you want
to display.

14. Click the Data Collection tab to manually collect data. Check the Destination Directory and
File Format to make sure the files are where you want them and in the right format. Select
the Collect Mode, tables, then click Start.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 23

The following shows data collected from an hourly rain table.

9. Maintenance and troubleshooting

NOTE:
All factory repairs and recalibrations require a returned material authorization (RMA) and
completion of the “Statement of Product Cleanliness and Decontamination” form. Refer to
the Assistance page at the end of this manual for more information.

This section discusses the following:

9.1 Maintenance 25

9.2 Troubleshooting 27

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 24

9.1 Maintenance

To ensure reliable and accurate measurements, Campbell Scientific recommends doing the
following every month.

1. Check the integrity of the cable and data logger connections. Replace cable if damaged.

2. Inspect the funnel for any damage or blockage. To clear a blockage, remove the funnel
from the base and remove debris.

3. Clean the filter using the following procedure:

a. Unscrew the end cap from the filter tube

b. Carefully, remove the stainless-steel screen

c. Gently clean the filter

d. Place the filter on the filter tube and screw on the end cap

4. Level the RainVUE-series if necessary (see aXWTILT! and aXRTILT! command in Table

8-2 (p. 16)). The RainVUE 10 has a bubble level next to a leveling foot. On the RainVUE 20,

the funnel needs to be removed to view the bubble level.

5. Clean dirt from the tipping bucket. Avoid tipping the bucket if the RainVUE-series is still
connected to the data logger.

6. If the data logger is disconnected, check the tipping mechanism for stiffness.

a. Try to balance the bucket in its center position. It should be extremely difficult or

impossible to balance.

b. If the bucket balances easily, closely examine the tipping bucket assembly for dirt or

wear on the pivot pin and bucket tubs.

9.1.1 Internal lithium battery

An internal lithium coin cell battery powers the RainVUE-series during power loss of the main
12V power source. The battery allows the RainVUE-series to capture rain events for 12 to 15 days
depending on battery age, temperature, and frequency of rain detections and SDI-12
measurement request.

The M1! and IM1_005! SDI-12 commands report the lithium battery voltage (see Table 8-1 (p.

14) and Table 8-3 (p. 17)). Replace the battery when voltage is approximately 2.7VDC.

Campbell Scientific recommends replacing the battery every 2 to 3 years and after each loss of
power event. High temperature can reduce the battery life and low temperatures can decrease
battery capacity lowering available power and sensor runtime.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 25

Remove the backup battery when the sensor is removed from service. Replace the battery when
the RainVUE-series is placed back in service.

Battery replacement procedure:

1. Loosen and remove the three base thumb screws then lift the funnel upward.

2. Use a Philips screwdriver to remove the four screws on the RainVUE-series interface.

3. Remove the interface cover.

4. Replace the old lithium battery with the new battery (3 V Coin Cell CR2032).

5. Place the interface cover on the interface and secure with the four screws.

6. Replace the funnel and tighten the three base thumb screws to secure the funnel to the
base.

9.1.2 Updating operating system

1.

Go to www.campbellsci.com/downloads/rainvue-os , click Download Now, and click
Save File. This will download an .exe file on your computer.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 26

2. Double-click the .exe file. This will save the operating system file in
C:/Campbellsci/Lib/OperatingSystems.

3. Access Device Configuration Utility (see Device Configuration Utility (p. 19)).

4. Click the Send OS tab.

5. Click Start

6. Select the file. It will have an .a43 extension.

7. Click OK.

9.2 Troubleshooting

Symptom:

On a CRBasic data logger, data values report NAN, or on a non-Campbell Scientific data logger,
data values do not change when the tipping mechanism is activated and new measurement
commands are issued.

Solution:

1. Verify the RainVUE-series is wired correctly (Table 7-1 (p. 6)).

NOTE:
Connect the power wire to the data logger 12V terminal and not the SW12 terminal.

2. Verify the power to the RainVUE-series is in the appropriate range (6 to 18 VDC).

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 27

3. Verify the correct SDI-12 address is being used when communicating with the RainVUE­series. Use the transparent mode to verify the data logger can communicate with the it. For
additional information, refer to SDI-12 transparent mode (p. 38).

Symptom:

Reported data values are lower than expected.

Solution:

1. Ensure that the filter is clean and allows water to flow through it.

2. Check that the tipping mechanism can move freely.

3. Use a voltmeter on the switch to verify the switch is activated as expected while
transitioning from one side to the other. While the tipping mechanism is in its resting
positions, the volt meter should read 3 to 5 V. When at the mid- point as it transitions from
one side to the other side, the volt meter should read 0 V.

4. Ensure that the RainVUE-series is level. The RainVUE 10 has a bubble level next to a
leveling foot. On the RainVUE 20, the funnel needs to be removed to view the bubble level.

5. Check the wires and connections between the switch and the interface are secure.

6. Verify no obstacles are preventing rain from entering the funnel.

Symptom:

Reported data values are higher than expected.

Solution:

1. Verify the tipping mechanism is not stuck near the center of its movement from one side to
the other.

2. Verify that the wires and connections between the switch and the interface are secure.

3. Verify that the RainVUE-series is not under a structure that will drip into the it.

For more information refer to:

www.campbellsci.com/videos/sdi12-sensors-transparent-mode

www.campbellsci.com/videos/sdi12-sensors-watch-or-sniffer-mode

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 28

Appendix A. Importing Short

Cut code into CRBasic Editor

Short Cut creates a .DEF file that contains wiring information and a program file that can be

imported into the CRBasic Editor. By default, these files reside in the C:\campbellsci\SCWin
folder.

Import Short Cut program file and wiring information into CRBasic Editor:

1. Create the Short Cut program. After saving the Short Cut program, click the Advanced tab
then the CRBasic Editor button. A program file with a generic name will open in CRBasic.
Provide a meaningful name and save the CRBasic program. This program can now be
edited for additional refinement.

NOTE:
Once the file is edited with CRBasic Editor, Short Cut can no longer be used to edit the
program it created.

2. To add the Short Cut wiring information into the new CRBasic program, open the .DEF file
located in the C:\campbellsci\SCWin folder, and copy the wiring information, which is at
the beginning of the .DEF file.

3. Go into the CRBasic program and paste the wiring information into it.

4. In the CRBasic program, highlight the wiring information, right-click, and select Comment
Block. This adds an apostrophe (') to the beginning of each of the highlighted lines, which
instructs the data logger compiler to ignore those lines when compiling. The Comment

Block feature is demonstrated at about 5:10 in the CRBasic | Features video .

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 29

Appendix B. XTEST! operation

Use the XTEST! SDI-12 command to validate the calibration. Enter this command in the
transparent mode while the computer is communicating with the data logger through a terminal
emulator program.

This command displays simulated rain fall data that does not affect rain accumulators used for
the normal operation. It runs for 60 minutes then returns to normal operation. The XTEST!
command can also be aborted by a break on the SDI-12 data line. Therefore, suspend the data
logger program before you begin field calibration.

To validate the calibration, first run a fixed amount of water through the RainVUE-series, then
use the XTEST! command and compare the results. A common amount of simulated rain is 946
ml which equates to 115 tips on the 0.01 inch rain gauge at a rate of 2 inches of rain per hour or
slower.

Initially, the command sends the following header information.

Raw

Tip

For each second or each tip detected, the command displays a new line of data, such as the
following.

Raw
Tip

0 0.000 0.000 0

0 0.000 0.000 0

Eventually, the numbers should start changing and the latest data should give an indication of
how close the gauge is to calibration.

Corrected
Rain Fall

Corrected

Rain Fall

Total

Rain Fall Balance

Total
Rain Fall Balance

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 30

Raw
Tip

0 0.000 0.000 0

0 0.000 0.000 0

1 0.010 0.010 33

2 0.011 0.021 68

3 0.011 0.032 51

4 0.012 0.044 50

5 0.010 0.054 51

6 0.011 0.065 49

8 0.023 0.088 51

|

|

110 0.011 1.180 51

Corrected
Rain Fall

Total
Rain Fall Balance

111 0.011 1.191 50

112 0.011 1.202 51

113 0.012 1.214 51

114 0.010 1.224 51

114 0.000 1.224 51

114 0.000 1.224 51

The corrected rain fall and total rain fall values include intensity correction. When the simulated
rain is ran through the gauge at a fast rate, the number of tips may be lower than expected, but
the corrected rain fall should be close to the actual amount of simulated rain.

The balance value represents how balanced the tipping mechanism is as it tips from one side to
the other. If the gauge needs to be adjusted, it is best to try to keep the balance as close to 50%
as possible. The balance value is only valid if the simulated rain is being applied at a constant
rate. It is best to look at this value after the test has been running for consistently for a few tips.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 31

Appendix C. SDI-12 sensor support

SDI-12, Serial Data Interface at 1200 baud, is a protocol developed to simplify sensor and data
logger compatibility. Only three wires are necessary — serial data, ground, and 12 V. With unique
addresses, multiple SDI-12 sensors can connect to a single SDI-12 terminal on a Campbell
Scientific data logger.

This appendix discusses the structure of SDI-12 commands and the process of querying SDI-12
sensors. For more detailed information, refer to version 1.4 of the SDI-12 protocol, available at

www.sdi-12.org .

For additional information, refer to the SDI-12 Sensors | Transparent Mode and SDI-12 Sensors |

Watch or Sniffer Mode videos.

C.1 SDI-12 command basics

SDI-12 commands have three components:

l Sensor address (a) – a single character and the first character of the command. Use the

default address of zero (0) unless multiple sensors are connected to the same port.

l Command body – an upper case letter (the “command”), optionally followed by one or

more alphanumeric qualifiers.

l Command termination (!) – an exclamation mark.

An active sensor responds to each command. Responses have several standard forms and always
terminate with <CR><LF> (carriage return and line feed). Standard SDI-12 commands are listed
in Table C-1 (p. 32).

Table C-1: Campbell Scientific sensor SDI-12 command and response set

Name Command

Acknowledge Active

Send Identification

Start Verification

a!

aI!

aV!

Response

a<CR><LF>

allccccccccmmmmmmvvvxxx...xx

<CR><LF>

atttn <CR><LF>

1

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 32

Table C-1: Campbell Scientific sensor SDI-12 command and response set

Name Command

Address Query

Change Address

Start Measurement

Start Measurement

and Request CRC

Start Concurrent Measurement

StartConcurrentMeasurement

and Request CRC

Send Data

Continuous Measurement

?!

aAb!

aM!

aM1!...aM9!

aMC!

aMC1!...aMC9!

aC!

aC1!...aC9!

aCC!

aCC1!...aCC9!

aD0!...aD9!

aR0!...aR9!

Response

a<CR><LF>

b<CR><LF>

atttn<CR><LF>

atttn <CR><LF>

atttnn<CR><LF>

atttnn<CR><LF>

a<values><CR><LF> or

a<values><CRC><CR><LF>

a<values><CR><LF>

1

Continuous Measurement

and Request CRC

Extended Commands

1

Information on each of these commands is given in the following sections.

aRC0!...aRC9!

aXNNN!

a<values><CRC><CR><LF>

a<values><CR><LF>

C.1.1 Acknowledge active command (a!)

The Acknowledge Active command (a!) is used to test a sensor on the SDI-12 bus. An active
sensor responds with its address.

C.1.2 Send identification command (al!)

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.

aI!

a Sensor SDI-12 address

allccccccccmmmmmmvvvxxx...xx<CR><LF>

ll SDI-12 version number (indicates compatibility)

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 33

cccccccc 8-character vendor identification

mmmmmm 6 characters specifying the sensor model

vvv 3 characters specifying the sensor version (operating system)

xxx…xx

<CR><LF>

Source: SDI-12: A Serial-Digital Interface Standard for Microprocessor-Based Sensors (see References).

Up to 13 optional characters used for a serial number or other specific
sensor information that is not relevant for operation of the data logger

Terminates the response

C.1.3 Start verification command (aV!)

The response to a Start Verification command can include hardware diagnostics, but like the aI!
command, the response is not standardized.

Command: aV!

Response: atttn<CR><LF>

a = sensor address

ttt = time, in seconds, until verification information is available

n = the number of values to be returned when one or more subsequent D! commands are issued

C.1.4 Address query command (?!)

Command ?! requests the address of the connected sensor. The sensor replies to the query with
the address, a. This command should only be used with one sensor on the SDI-12 bus at a time.

C.1.5 Change address command (aAb!)

Multiple SDI-12 sensors can connect to a single SDI-12 terminal on a data logger. Each device on
a single terminal must have a unique address.

A 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.

NOTE:
Only one sensor should be connected to a particular terminal at a time when changing
addresses.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 34

C.1.6 Start measurement commands (aM!)

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

atttn<CR><LF>, where

a = sensor address

ttt = time, in seconds, until measurement data is available. When the data is ready, the sensor

notifies the data logger, and the data logger begins issuing D commands.

n = the number of values returned when one or more subsequent D commands are issued. For
the aM! command, n is an integer from 0 to 9.

When the aM! is issued, the data logger pauses its operation and waits until either it receives the
data from the sensor or the time, ttt, expires. Depending on the scan interval of the data logger
program and the response time of the sensor, this may cause skipped scans to occur. In this case
make sure your scan interval is longer than the longest measurement time (ttt).

Table C-2: Example aM! sequence

0M!

00352<CR><LF>

0<CR><LF>

0D0!

0+.859+3.54<CR><LF>

The data logger makes a request to sensor 0 to start a measurement.

Sensor 0 immediately indicates that it will return two values within
the next 35 seconds.

Within 35 seconds, sensor 0 indicates that it has completed the
measurement by sending a service request to the data logger.

The data logger immediately issues the first D command to collect
data from the sensor.

The sensor immediately responds with the sensor address and the two
values.

C.1.7 Start concurrent measurement commands (aC!)

A concurrent measurement (aC!) command follows the same pattern as the aM! command with
the exception that it does not require the data logger to pause its operation, and other SDI-12
sensors may take measurements at the same time. The sensor will not issue a service request to
notify the data logger that the measurement is complete. The data logger will issue the aD0!
command during the next scan after the measurement time reported by the sensor has expired.
To use this command, the scan interval should be 10 seconds or less. The response to each
command has the form atttn<CR><LF>, where

a = the sensor address

ttt = time, in seconds, until the measurement data is available

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 35

nn = the number of values to be returned when one or more subsequent D commands are
issued.

See the following example. A data logger has three sensors wired into terminal C1. The sensors
are addresses X, Y, and Z. The data logger will issue the following commands and receive the
following responses:

Table C-3: Example aC! sequence

XC!

X03005<CR><LF>

YC!

Y04006<CR><LF>

ZC!

Z02010<CR><LF>

ZD0!

The data logger makes a request to sensor X to start
a concurrent measurement.

Sensor X immediately indicates that it will have 5
(05) values ready for collection within the next 30
(030) seconds.

The data logger makes a request to sensor Y to start
a concurrent measurement.

Sensor Y immediately indicates that it will have 6
(06) values ready for collection within the next 40
(040) seconds.

The data logger makes a request to sensor Z to start
a concurrent measurement.

Sensor Z immediately indicates that it will have 10
values ready for collection within the next 20 (020)
seconds.

After 20 seconds have passed, the data logger starts
the process of collecting the data by issuing the first
D command to sensor Z.

Z+1+2+3+4+5+6+7+8+9+10<CR><LF>

XD0!

X+1+2+3+4+5<CR><LF>

Sensor Z immediately responds with the sensor
address and the 10 values.

10 seconds later, after a total of 30 seconds have
passed, the data logger starts the process of
collecting data from sensor X by issuing the first D
command.

The sensor immediately responds with the sensor
address and the 5 values.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 36

Table C-3: Example aC! sequence

YD0!

Ten seconds later, after a total of 40 seconds have
passed, the data logger starts the process of
collecting data from sensor Y by issuing the first D
command.

Y+1+2+3+4+5+6<CR><LF>

The sensor immediately responds with the sensor
address and the 6 values.

C.1.8 Start measurement commands with cyclic redundancy check (aMC! and aCC!)

Error checking is done by using measurement commands with cyclic redundancy checks (aMC!
or aCC!). This is most commonly implemented when long cable lengths or electronic noise may
impact measurement transmission to the data logger. When these commands are used, the data
returned in response to D or R commands must have a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) code
appended to it. The CRC code is a 16-bit value encoded within 3 characters appended before the
<CR><LF>. This code is not returned in the data table but checked by the data logger as it
comes. The code returned is based on the SDI-12 protocol. See the SDI-12 communication
specification for version 1.3 available at www.sdi-12.org to learn more about how the CRC code is
developed.

C.1.9 Stopping a measurement command

A measurement command (M!) is stopped if it detects a break signal before the measurement is
complete. A break signal is sent by the data logger before most commands.

A concurrent measurement command (C!) is aborted when another valid command is sent to the
sensor before the measurement time has elapsed.

C.1.10 Send data command (aD0! … aD9!)

The Send Data command requests data from the sensor. It is issued automatically with every type
of measurement command (aM!, aMC!, aC!, aCC!). When the measurement command is aM!
or aMC!, the data logger issues the aD0! command once a service request has been received
from the sensor or the reported time has expired. When the data logger is issuing concurrent
commands (aC! or aCC!), the Send Data command is issued after the required time has elapsed
(no service request will be sent by the sensor). In transparent mode (see SDI-12 transparent mode
(p. 38) ), the user asserts this command to obtain data.

Depending on the type of data returned and the number of values a sensor returns, the data
logger may need to issue aD0! up to aD9! to retrieve all data. A sensor may return up to 35

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 37

characters of data in response to a D command that follows an M! or MC! command. A sensor
may return up to 75 characters of data in response to a D command that follows a C! or CC!
command. Data values are separated by plus or minus signs.

Command: aD0! (aD1! … aD9!)

Response: a<values><CR><LF> or a<values><CRC><CR><LF>

where:

a = the sensor address

<values> = values returned with a polarity sign (+ or –)

<CR><LF> = terminates the response

<CRC> = 16-bit CRC code appended if data was requested with aMC! or aCC!.

C.1.11 Continuous measurement command (aR0! … aR9!)

Sensors that are able to continuously monitor the phenomena to be measured can be read
directly with the R commands (R0! … R9!). The response to the R commands mirrors the Send
Data command (aD0!). A maximum of 75 characters can be returned in the <values> part of the
response to the R command.

C.1.12 Extended commands

Many sensors support extended SDI-12 commands. An extended command is specific to a make
of sensor and tells the sensor to perform a specific task. They have the following structure.
Responses vary from unit to unit. See the sensor manual for specifics.

Command: aXNNNN!

The command will start with the sensor address (a), followed by an X, then a set of optional
letters, and terminate with an exclamation point.

Response: a<optional values><CR><LF>

The response will start with the sensor address and end with a carriage return/line feed.

C.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. Data logger security may need to be unlocked before activating the
transparent mode.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 38

Transparent mode is entered while the computer is communicating with the data logger through
a terminal emulator program. It is accessed through Campbell Scientific data logger support
software or other terminal emulator programs. Data logger keyboards and displays cannot be
used.

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

Watch the video: SDI-12 Sensors | Transparent Mode.

Data loggers from other manufacturers will also have a transparent mode. Refer to those manuals
on how to use their transparent mode.

The following examples show how to enter transparent mode and change the SDI-12 address of
an SDI-12 sensor. The steps shown in Changing an SDI-12 address (p. 39) are used with most
Campbell Scientific data loggers.

C.2.1 Changing an SDI-12 address

This example was done with a CR1000X, but the steps are only slightly different for CR6, CR3000,
CR800-series, CR300-series, CR1000 data loggers.

1. Connect an SDI-12 sensor to the CR1000X.

2. In LoggerNet Connect, under Datalogger, click Terminal Emulator. The terminal emulator
window opens.

3. Under Select Device, located in the lower left side of the window, select the CR1000X

4. Click Open Terminal.

5. Select All Caps Mode.

6. Press Enter until the data logger responds with the CR1000X> prompt.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 39

7. Type SDI12 and press Enter.

8. At the Select SDI12 Port prompt, type the number corresponding to the control port where
the sensor is connected and press Enter. The response Entering SDI12 Terminal indicates
that the sensor is ready to accept SDI-12 commands.

9. To query the sensor for its current SDI-12 address, type ?! and press Enter. The sensor
responds with its SDI-12 address. If no characters are typed within 60 seconds, the mode is
exited. In that case, simply type SDI12 again, press Enter, and type the correct control port
number when prompted.

10. To change the SDI-12 address, type aAb!, where a is the current address from the previous
step and b is the new address. Press Enter. The sensor changes its address and responds
with the new address. In the following example, the sensor address is changed from 0 to B.

11. To exit SDI-12 transparent mode, click Close Terminal.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 40

NOTE:
The transparent mode for the CR6, CR3000, CR800-series, CR300-series, and CR1000 data
loggers is similar to that shown for the CR1000X.

C.3 References

SDI-12 Support Group. SDI-12: A Serial-Digital Interface Standard for Microprocessor-Based
Sensors – Version 1.4. River Heights, UT: SDI-12 Support Group, 2017. http://www.sdi-

12.org/current_specification/SDI-12_version-1_4-Dec-1-2017.pdf.

RainVUE-Series SDI-12 Precipitation Sensors 41

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Email:
Website:

UK

Location:
Phone:
Email:
Website:

USA

Location:
Phone:
Email:
Website:

Bangkok, Thailand

66.2.719.3399
[e-mail]
www.campbellsci.asia

Shepshed, Loughborough,
UK

44.0.1509.601141
[e-mail]
www.campbellsci.co.uk

Logan, UT USA

435.227.9120
[e-mail]
www.campbellsci.com

Costa Rica

Location:
Phone:
Email:
Website:

San Pedro, Costa Rica

506.2280.1564
[e-mail]
www.campbellsci.cc

Spain

Location:
Phone:
Email:
Website:

Barcelona, Spain

34.93.2323938
[e-mail]
www.campbellsci.es