Onset hobo u30, HOBO U30 Station User Manual

Onset Computer Corp

Contacting Onset

For support, please contact the company that you bought the products from: Onset Computer Corporation or an Onset Authorized Dealer.

Onset Computer Corporation 470 MacArthur Blvd. Bourne, MA 02532

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 3450 Pocasset, MA 02559-3450

Phone: 1-800-LOGGERS (1-800-564-4377) or 508-759-9500

Fax: 508-759-9100

Customer Service Hours: 8AM to 5PM Eastern Time

Technical Support Hours: 8AM to 8PM Eastern Time

Email: loggerhelp@onsecomp.com or hobolink@onsetcomp.com

Main Onset Web site: www.onsetcomp.com

Copyrights and Trademarks

© 2009–2011 Onset Computer Corporation. All rights reserved. Onset, HOBO, HOBOlink, HOBOware, BoxCar, and FlexSmart are trademarks or registered trademarks of Onset Computer Corporation for its data logger products and configuration/interface software. Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective companies.

Doc#: 12269-I Part#: MAN-U30-RC-UG

HOBO U30/RC - ii - User’s Guide

Onset Computer Corp

Contents

About the HOBO U30 Station .............................................................. 1

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

Key Features .................................................................................................................................................. 2

U30 Station Components .......................................................................................................................... 3

Software ........................................................................................................................................................... 5

Smart Sensors ................................................................................................................................................ 6

The Analog Sensor Port ............................................................................................................................. 7

Setup and Test ................................................................................... 9

Configuration Summaries ......................................................................................................................... 9

Initial HOBOlink Setup ............................................................................................................................ 11

Initial Hardware Setup ........................................................................................................................... 12

Connecting the HOBO U30 Station to HOBOware Pro ............................................................... 13

Configuring Analog Sensor Ports or a TRMSA Module .............................................................. 14

Changing the State of the U30 Relay Contact ................................................................................ 16

Basic Hardware Setup ............................................................................................................................. 17

Final HOBOlink Setup and Test ........................................................................................................... 18

Installing Mounting Plates .................................................................................................................... 19

Connecting Smart Sensors .................................................................................................................... 20

Connecting Analog Sensors................................................................................................................... 22

Connecting the Battery ........................................................................................................................... 23

Network Settings ............................................................................. 24

Configuring Wireless Network Settings .......................................................................................... 24

Configuring a Static IP Address ........................................................................................................... 28

Installing the U30 Station in the Field .............................................. 30

Field Installation Procedure ................................................................................................................. 30

Connecting Grounding Wire ................................................................................................................. 32

Installing Weatherproof Cable Channels ........................................................................................ 33

Connecting Solar or AC Power ............................................................................................................. 36

Connecting Equipment to the Relay Contact ................................................................................. 37

Mounting the HOBO U30 Station to a Pole ..................................................................................... 38

Checking Cellular Signal Strength (U30/GSM) ............................................................................. 39

HOBO U30/RC - iii - User’s Guide

Onset Computer Corp

The U30 Relay Contact ..................................................................... 40

An Overview of the U30 Relay Contact ............................................................................................ 40

Relay Example - Start Device ............................................................................................................... 42

Relay Contact Example - Stop Device ............................................................................................... 43

Configuring Relay Alarms for the U30/RC ..................................................................................... 44

Changing the State of the U30 Relay Contact ................................................................................ 46

Configuring Relay Alarms for the U30/RC ..................................................................................... 47

Maintenance..................................................................................... 49

General Maintenance ............................................................................................................................... 49

Adding a Sensor ......................................................................................................................................... 51

Removing/Replacing a Sensor ............................................................................................................ 52

Testing Smart Sensors ............................................................................................................................ 52

Checking the U30 Status ........................................................................................................................ 52

Inspecting the HOBO U30 Station ...................................................................................................... 53

Troubleshooting the HOBO U30 Station ......................................................................................... 54

The Smart Sensor Expander Board ................................................... 56

Opening the Secondary Cable Slot ..................................................................................................... 56

Installing the Expander Board ............................................................................................................. 58

The Battery ...................................................................................... 60

Overview....................................................................................................................................................... 60

Battery Life .................................................................................................................................................. 61

Maximizing Battery Life ......................................................................................................................... 62

Battery Voltage .......................................................................................................................................... 63

Connecting the Battery ........................................................................................................................... 65

Maintaining the Battery ......................................................................................................................... 66

Replacing the Battery .............................................................................................................................. 66

Troubleshooting the Battery ................................................................................................................ 67

Battery Life without External Power ................................................................................................ 68

Reference ......................................................................................... 69

General U30 Specifications ................................................................................................................... 69

GSM/Wi-Fi Specifications ...................................................................................................................... 71

Analog Sensor Port ................................................................................................................................... 72

Time Accuracy ............................................................................................................................................ 74

HOBO U30/RC - iv - User’s Guide

Onset Computer Corp

Memory ......................................................................................................................................................... 75

Connection Status LEDs ......................................................................................................................... 76

Logger Status LEDs ................................................................................................................................... 78

Items Required for Field Installation ................................................................................................ 79

Accessories .................................................................................................................................................. 80

FCC Part 15 Compliance ......................................................................................................................... 81

Wi-Fi Compliance ...................................................................................................................................... 82

Ethernet Compliance ............................................................................................................................... 83

Tripod Setup .................................................................................... 84

Guidelines for Typical Field Setup ..................................................................................................... 84

Field Preparation Checklist .................................................................................................................. 86

Items Required for Installation ........................................................................................................... 87

Task 1: Assemble Tripod ....................................................................................................................... 89

Task 2: Install Grounding Kit ............................................................................................................... 96

Task 3: Temporarily Install Upper Mast (Optional) ................................................................... 97

Task 4: Mount Cross Arm (Optional) ................................................................................................ 98

Task 5: Mount Upper Mast to Lower Mast ..................................................................................... 99

Task 6: Mount Logger to Upper Mast ............................................................................................. 100

Task 7: Install Guy Wire Kit (Optional) .......................................................................................... 101

Task 8: Position and Level Sensors ................................................................................................. 102

Task 9: Final Setup ................................................................................................................................. 103

HOBO U30/RC - v - User’s Guide

Onset Computer Corp

ABOUT THE HOBO U30 STATION

Introduction

Overview

The HOBO U30 Station is a data logging and monitoring device that can be easily reconfigured and adapted to a wide variety of applications. Up to 15 channels of data can be recorded and monitored remotely via HOBOlink™.

Use HOBOware® Pro software to set up analog data channels, communicate with the logger locally, and perform advanced plotting and analysis.

The HOBO U30 Station is a data logging system that can be easily reconfigured and adapted to a wide variety of applications. Up to 15 channels of data can be recorded and monitored with HOBOware Pro software.

You can set alarms to trip for specific sensor readings that you select or for overall system conditions, such as when the memory or battery is running low.

Remote Communication Models

The HOBO U30 Station is available in three models that support Remote Communication:

• GSM

• Wi-Fi

• Ethernet

Note: The HOBO U30/Wi-Fi works with all approved Access Point Router standards including typical home IEEE 802.11b and IEEE 802.11g units. Pre-N and Draft-N access point routers are ‘preliminary’ and may not work with the HOBO U30/Wi-Fi.

Contents

The HOBO U30 Station package includes:

• HOBO U30 Station

• Mounting Kit

• Grounding Wire

• Cable Entry and Sealing Kit

• Optional Analog Sensor Port, if ordered

• Optional Sensor Expander Board, if ordered

Onset Computer Corp

Key Features

Remote Communication

There are three versions of the U30 that allow for remote communication using HOBOlink. By using any web browser, you can configure and view data from the HOBO U30 Station anywhere in the world.

• GSM. The HOBO U30/GSM contains a Global System for Mobile (GSM) communications

radio module that uses the mobile phone network to establish an internet connection with HOBOlink.

• Wi-Fi. The HOBO U30/Wi-Fi combines ruggedized data logging hardware with

integrated Wi-Fi communications, and is versatile enough to use in both indoor and outdoor environments. Users can easily and quickly plug in their choice of sensors and connect to a Wi-Fi network without having to worry about cumbersome communications cables or wiring.

• Ethernet. The HOBO U30/Ethernet allows you to connect directly to the internet using

an Ethernet cable.

Automatic Detection of Smart Sensors

The HOBO U30 Station automatically recognizes Smart Sensors. You can connect up to 10 Smart Sensors of any type or combination just by plugging them in before logging begins. No programming, wiring or calibration is required to set them up. The connections between the Smart Sensors and the logger are digital, ensuring accurate, reliable data collection and storage. The HOBO U30 Remote Monitoring System is compatible with all Smart Sensors used with the HOBO Weather Station and HOBO Micro Station.

Alarm Notification

The HOBO U30 Station supports alarm notification for sensors as well as system alarms. When an alarm is detected, the system can trigger the relay contact closure and send you a notification to your email/mobile phone. Alarms can be set for individual sensors and for overall system conditions.

Rechargeable Battery

The HOBO U30 Station uses a Sealed Lead Acid battery that can be recharged via a solar panel or AC adapter. This provides continuous power to keep the HOBO U30 Station recording and transmitting data for years.

Optional Analog Sensor Ports

The HOBO U30 Station can be optionally configured with two analog sensor ports. The ports are user-configurable and can accept and provide excitation power to a wide range of Onset and third-party sensors with 0-20 V or 0-20 mA output. The Analog sensor ports are factoryinstalled.

Onset Computer Corp

U30 Station Components

This topic describes the components for the HOBO U30 Station. Some components apply to specific models only, as noted.

Diagram

Component Descriptions

1. Outer Case - Protects the U30 Station.

2. Logger - The U30 Station.

3. Internal Weatherproof Case – Provides a second level of protection for the U30

electronic circuitry.

4. Expansion Port Connector (shown with optional Analog Sensor Port installed) - This port

is where the optional Analog Sensor Ports are factory-installed.

5. Relay Contacts - The Relay can be activated, deactivated, or pulsed on user-defined

sensor alarms. The relay can be configured as normally open or normally closed, and is rated for 30 V, 1 Amp maximum.

6. USB Port - Plug in a USB cable here to connect directly to a computer.

7. Antenna or Ethernet Port - Antenna installed on GSM or Wi-Fi models; Ethernet

Connection for the Ethernet model only.

8. Vent - This vent allows pressure to equalize inside the enclosure, but does not allow

liquid to pass through.

Figure 1: U30 Components

Onset Computer Corp

NOTE: The pressure inside the case does not match the outside air pressure exactly so a barometric pressure sensor deployed within this case cannot measure the true atmospheric pressure unless it has its own unrestricted vent to the outside.

8. Smart Sensor Expansion Slot - The optional Smart Sensor Expander Board is installed

here.

9. Cable access openings - All cables and wires are pulled through a protective rubber cable

channel placed in this opening. If using the optional factory-installed expander board for additional Smart Sensors, you will need to use the second cable access opening.

10. Smart Sensor Ports - Connect up to five Smart Sensors in these RJ-12 jacks. Use one jack

to connect the optional expander board for additional Smart Sensors.

11. Rechargeable Battery - 4-Volt Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery located inside the case.

12. Battery Connector - Plug in the 4-Volt Sealed Lead battery here.

13. Ground Connector - Plug in grounding wire here to ground the system.

14. External Power Supply Connector - Plug in the compatible solar panel or AC adapter

here.

Important: Always connect or disconnect external power before the battery. Damage may occur if the battery is unplugged before the external power is disconnected.

15. Internal Enclosure - provides a second weather-proof housing for the electronics in the

HOBO U30 Station. You should never open this case. Doing so will void the warranty.

16. Status LEDs

There are three Light Emitting Diode (LED) status indicators.

Logging indicates whether the system is currently logging.

Alarm indicates if an alarm has been tripped.

Sensor active indicates that Smart Sensor network communications are occurring.

For more information on LEDs, refer to Diagnostics and troubleshooting.

17. Connection LEDs (Remote Communication Models only)

Top - Blinks when the HOBO U30 Station is attempting to contact a network (cellular tower, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet, depending on model).

Bottom - Blinks when the U30 is connected to HOBOlink.

Onset Computer Corp

Software

The HOBO U30/RC Station is designed primarily for use with HOBOlink, which allows for continuous logging and transmission of data using remote communication technology. There is some configuration however that requires HOBOware Pro software. Before you set up your system, it is important to understand when to use HOBOlink and HOBOware Pro.

HOBOlink

• Launching the U30 Station

• Setting up readout schedules (connection intervals)

• Configuring Alarms

• Viewing Data

• Monitoring Status

See the HOBOlink Quick Start Guide and the HOBOlink Help for details.

HOBOware Pro

• Configuring the Analog Sensor Ports

• Changing the default system-wide relay operation (which is normally open)

• Testing individual Smart Sensors

• Plotting and analysis of datafiles

• Troubleshooting when there is no connection to HOBOlink

See the HOBOware User's Manual for details.

Onset Computer Corp

Smart Sensors

Description

Smart sensors plug into the logger and collect data about various parameters.

You do not have to stop the logger to add a new Smart Sensor. Simply connect the sensor and then select Force Relaunch on Next Connection in the Launch Configuration panel in HOBOware Pro.

Refer to www.onsetcomp.com for a current list of available sensors.

Cable Length

The HOBO U30 Station can work with a maximum total of Smart Sensor cable lengths up to 100 meters (328 feet), as measured from the logger connection point to the electronics embedded in the individual cables. Optional Smart Sensor extension cable lengths must also be included in the total. This limitation applies to Smart Sensor cables only. The lengths of other cables, such as those connected to the Analog Sensor Port or the analog portion of smart sensor cables do not need to be included in this total.

Data Channel Limitations

The HOBO U30 Station can log up to 15 data channels (not including the internal battery channel). This includes the two channels in the Analog Sensor Port plus each of the Smart Sensor channels (note that some Smart Sensors may have more than one channel). If you have more than 15 channels connected, some of the sensors will be ignored. You should remove any Smart Sensors that will not be used in the deployment, and disable the second channel in the Analog Sensor Port if it is not needed (the first channel cannot be disabled). If you connect a Smart Sensor that has multiple channels (such as temperature and relative humidity), all of its channels will be logged. There is no way to disable them.

Onset Computer Corp

The Analog Sensor Port

The Analog Sensor Port is an easy-to-configure, flexible DC signal-conditioning option that can be factory-installed in the HOBO U30 Station. This two-channel port can accept, and provide excitation power to a wide range of Onset and third-party sensors with 0–20 V or 0–20 mA output, including devices with 4–20 mA current loop interface, and sensors with 0–2.5, 0–5, and 0–10 V DC output.

The Analog Sensor Port features input protection and signal filtering, as well as delta-sigma A/D conversion and factory calibration. This port features extremely low power operation, resulting in long battery life for unattended data logging applications. Precision electronics provide ±0.25% accuracy from 50 mV to full scale (FS).

Sensors connected to this Analog Sensor Port can be configured using HOBOware Pro. Configuration options include scaling parameters, and excitation power. See page 14, as well as the HOBOware User’s Manual for configuration details.

If your HOBO U30 Station does not have an Analog Sensor Port and you wish to upgrade to one, contact Onset Computer Corporation for information.

Sensor Excitation

The Analog Sensor Port supports optional, user-configurable sensor excitation power and warm-up. Sensor excitation is a voltage output provided by the HOBO U30 Station to power a sensor that is connected to it. This power may be needed because the sensor is not selfpowered, or because the sensor’s power capacity cannot support a long deployment.

When sensor excitation is required, the logger can provide 12 V DC sensor excitation voltage up to 50 mA total for transducers that require external power for proper operation. The excitation voltage has a programmable warm-up time and is controlled by the Analog Sensor Port.

Excitation power can affect the battery life. If your sensor does not require it, you should not include it in the channel configuration.

Modes

Carefully select the sensor excitation mode that best meets your needs.

• Warm-up mode

The logger supplies excitation power for a brief, user-programmable period prior to each measurement. This mode allows you to select the minimum warm-up time needed to allow for sensor stabilization, while conserving battery power.

For example, if you specify a warm-up of one second and set the Logging Interval to one minute, the HOBO U30 Station will power the external sensor for one second, log a measurement, and then turn off the excitation power for the next 59 seconds.

The warm-up time can be set from 5 milliseconds up to 120 seconds.

NOTE: If the warm-up time selected is greater than the logging interval selected, the logger will interpret the excitation mode as continuous.

Onset Computer Corp

• Continuous mode

The logger supplies constant excitation power to the sensor for the entire duration of the deployment. This mode will result in reduced battery life. Continuous mode is required if the sensor needs more than two minutes of warm-up time. The Analog Sensor Port begins functioning when logging begins.

When the ports are functioning correctly, the Active indicator LED on the port blinks once per logging interval to indicate that a successful measurement has been made. The Ex. On indicator LED will also be lit when excitation is enabled.

Onset Computer Corp

SETUP AND TEST

Configuration Summaries

This topic summarizes different paths you should take for HOBOlink and hardware configuration depending on your U30 Station model and optional configuration you may need to perform. These are not all of the possible scenarios, but the actual procedures will guide you through any other variations you may have.

The hyperlinks below will open in a new window, so you will always be able to reference this topic while you are viewing the detailed procedures.

GSM

U30/GSM Station with no Analog Sensors

Initial HOBOlink Setup (page 11)

Basic Hardware Setup (page 17), Steps 1-4

Final HOBOlink Setup and Test (page 18)

Wi-Fi

U30/Wi-Fi Station with DHCP and no Analog Sensors

Initial HOBOlink Setup (page 11)

Basic Hardware Setup (page 17), Steps 1-3

Configuring Network Setup (page 24), Steps 1-3

Basic Hardware Setup (page 17), Step 4

Final HOBOlink Setup and Test (page 18)

U30/Wi-Fi Station with Static IP and no Analog Sensors

Initial HOBOlink Setup (page 11)

Basic Hardware Setup (page 17), Steps 1-3

Configuring Network Setup (page 24), Steps 1-3

Basic Hardware Setup (page 17), Step 4

Final HOBOlink Setup and Test (page 18)

Onset Computer Corp

U30/Wi-Fi with DHCP and Analog Sensors

Initial HOBOlink Setup (page 11)

Basic Hardware Setup (page 17), Steps 1-3

Configuring Network Setup (page 24), Steps 1-3

Configuring Analog Sensor Ports or TRSMA Module (page 14), Steps 3-5

Basic Hardware Setup (page 17), Step 4

Final HOBOlink Setup and Test (page 18)

U30/Ethernet

U30/Ethernet Station with Static IP and no Analog Sensors

Initial HOBOlink Setup (page 11)

Basic Hardware Setup (page 17), Steps 1-4

Configuring a Static IP Address (page 29)

Final HOBOlink Setup and Test (page 18)

U30/Ethernet Station with Static IP and Analog Sensors

Initial HOBOlink Setup (page 11)

Basic Hardware Setup (page 17), Steps 1-3

Configuring a Static IP Address (page 29)

Configuring Analog Sensor Ports or TRSMA Module (page 14), Steps 3-5

Basic Hardware Setup (page 17), Step 4

Final HOBOlink Setup and Test (page 18)

Onset Computer Corp

Initial HOBOlink Setup

Before you connect the battery to the U30 Station, you should perform this procedure to setup your HOBOlink account and perform initial configuration and testing for the U30.

For more details, see the HOBOlink Quick Start Guide and the HOBOlink Help.

Steps

1. Go to www.hobolink.com and create a HOBOlink account.

2. Activate your account by responding to the Activation e-mail.

3. Log into your HOBOlink account and register the U30 that you are configuring.

4. Configure the Logging Interval in the Launch Configuration pane.

For an initial test, configure a Logging Interval just long enough to record data that you can verify. You will later change this to you required interval for deployment.

5. Configure the Connection Interval in the Readout Configuration pane.

For this test, you may want to configure a frequent Connection Interval so that you can verify proper operation without having to wait as long for updates. For the U30/GSM, this will be limited by the Fastest Connection Allowed by your Communication Plan. To bypass your GSM Communication Plan restrictions for testing see below.

Once you confirm the readouts are occurring as they should, you can change the Connection Interval to your desired on-going schedule for deployment.

NOTE: For testing, you can bypass your GSM Communication Plan restrictions by manually connecting to HOBOlink using HOBOware Pro (direct connection using supplied USB Cable). From the main menu select Status, and then click the Contact HOBOlink button. After the test, disconnect the U30 from the computer. The U30 will connect to HOBOlink at the next scheduled Connection Interval.

NEXT TASK: Initial Hardware Setup (page 12).

Onset Computer Corp

Initial Hardware Setup

Before you take the U30 Station into the field for deployment you should perform the following preliminary hardware assembly and configuration:

• Basic Setup (Required)

• Network Settings (U30 Wi-Fi and Ethernet) (Optional)

• Analog Sensor Ports or TRMS Module (TRMSA-D)(Optional)

Everyone must perform Basic Hardware Setup first. Follow the procedure from there if you need to configure Network Settings or Analog Sensor Ports/TRMS Module.

Before you Begin

This procedure assumes that you have already created a HOBOlink account and registered the U30 Station. You should register the U30 Station before you connect the battery and have it connect to HOBOlink. See Initial HOBOlink Setup on page 11.

Items for Setup

If you are using the Smart Sensor Expander Board

• Smart Sensor Expander Board

• Expander cable

• Bladed screwdriver or chisel and a file for removing cover of Secondary Cable Bay

If you are using Analog Sensors or Relay Contact

• Small flat-head screw driver

Start Here: Basic Hardware Setup (page 17)

Onset Computer Corp

Connecting the HOBO U30 Station to HOBOware Pro

This topic describes the procedure for connecting the HOBO U30 Station to HOBOware Pro. For the HOBO U30/RC, you need to use HOBOware Pro to configure Analog Sensor Ports/TRMSA Modules and to change the Relay Contact setting.

1. Connect to a computer.

To connect to a computer running HOBOware Pro, plug the “mini-USB” end of the USB cable provided into the USB port on the HOBO U30 Station and connect the “A” end to the USB port in your computer.

Important: If the USB cable is connected to the HOBO U30 Station at power up, it will not make an immediate connection to HOBOlink.com. This allows you to use HOBOware Pro without requiring you to override a connection to HOBOlink. If a connection with the HOBO U30 Station is not initiated by HOBOware Pro within 10 minutes, it will attempt to connect to HOBOlink automatically.

Figure 2: Connecting the U30 to a computer

If the device has never been connected to this computer before, it may take some time for the computer to detect the new hardware and report that it has connected successfully. One or more messages will appear, indicating that new hardware has been found. You may also hear a chime.

NOTE: Your computer may tell you to reboot before you can use the device. It is not necessary to reboot.

2. Run HOBOware Pro.

3. From the Device menu select Select Device ….

4. In the Select Device pane, click in the circle next to the desired device name and then

click OK.

When the device is recognized by HOBOware Pro, the status bar at the bottom of the HOBOware Pro window will show the connection status.

Onset Computer Corp

Configuring Analog Sensor Ports or a TRMSA Module

This is a branch of the Basic Hardware Setup procedure (page 17) for those who need to configure Analog Sensor Ports or a TRMSA Module.

NOTE: If you need to configure network settings for the U30/Wi-Fi or the U30/Ethernet and have not already, you should first perform Configuring Network Settings procedure on page 24.

Steps

If you are coming to this procedure from the Basic Hardware Setup procedure (page 17), start at Step 1.

If you are coming to this procedure from the Configuring Network Settings procedure (page

24), start at Step 3.

1. Connect the U30 Station to a computer using the USB cable (page 13).

2. Connect the Battery (page 65).

NOTE: As long as your battery has adequate charge, you do not need to connect the solar panel or AC adapter for this initial setup/test launch.

3. Launch HOBOware Pro.

4. From the Device menu, choose Configure Modules/Ports.

If the logger is already logging, you will be warned that the logger will have to be stopped first.

The Select Channel to Configure dialog will appear showing all configurable Analog Sensors attached to the logger.

5. Click on the + sign to expand the entry and show the channels.

Each channel in the module is defined by its channel number (the physical order in the module), the configured channel name, and any location (assigned at launch) defined for this channel in the logger.

NOTE: The default channel names Voltage and Current are just place holders and either channel can be configured to measure voltage or current. For example, both channels can be used to monitor sensors with 4-20 mA output.

6. Select a channel name and then click the Configure button to open the Channel

Configuration dialog.

7. Change any relevant configurable parameters. Refer to the HOBOware User’s Guide for

more details on this topic.

8. Save the Configuration (Optional). To send the currently displayed configuration to the

module/port, click Configure. The module will remain in this configuration until you send it a different configuration.

9. Disconnect the USB cable from the U30 Station.

10. Reset the U30 Station by cycling power.

Onset Computer Corp

11. Disconnect the battery from the U30 Station and then reconnect it to cycle power.

The U30 Station will connect to HOBOlink at the next Connection Interval. Proceed to Final HOBOlink Setup and Test (page 18).

Onset Computer Corp

Changing the State of the U30 Relay Contact

The U30 relay contact is a latching relay that can be configured as either Normally Open or Normally Closed. The factory-default setting is Normally Open. You can change the default relay

settings in the Alarm dialog in HOBOware Pro.

Steps

This procedures assumes the U30 Station is connected to a computer running HOBOware Pro.

1. From the Device menu select Alarms to open the Alarms window.

2. In the Relay Contacts section, select Normally Open or Normally Closed.

Alternate Method: From the Device menu select Control U30 Relay > Set Default (Deactivated) State and then select either Open or Closed.

3. If you are setting an Alarm Action of Pulse Relay, you can set the Relay Pulse Width.

The default is 1 s.

4. Click Set to send the alarm configuration to the U30 Station.

5. To test the relay, click the Close Relay or Open Relay button (button that appears

depends on which state the relay is in). You should hear a click in the HOBO U30 Station. Click the button again to return to the default state. Use a digital multimeter to check for continuity to confirm that the relay is opened and closed as expected.

Alternate Method: From the Device menu select Control U30 Relay > Activate Relay, then select Deactivate Relay.

Figure 3: Testing the Relay

Onset Computer Corp

Basic Hardware Setup

Everyone must perform this basic hardware setup procedure first. If you need to configure Network Settings or Analog Sensor Ports, follow the Procedure Branch in the procedure as required for your U30 Station configuration.

Steps

1. Open Secondary Cable Slot (if applicable)

If a Smart Sensor Expander Board was factory-installed and you will be using those ports now, you must open the Secondary Cable Slot. See page 56 for details.

If you are installing the Expander Board yourself, do that after you remove the secondary cable slot. See page 58 for details.

2. Install Mounting Plates (page 19).

3. Connect Smart Sensors (page 20) and Analog Sensors (page 22).

Onset recommends that you test all sensors you plan to deploy with the logger.

NOTE: If you are using the Solar Radiation Shield, set up the Temperature and Temperature/RH sensors. There are several small pieces required to connect these sensors to the shield that could easily get lost in the field. It is strongly recommended you install these sensors in the solar radiation shield before going to the field. See the Solar Radiation Shield Manual for more information.

Procedure Branch

Option 1

If you need to configure Wireless Network Setup for the U30/Wi-Fi or U30/Ethernet, proceed to Configuring Wireless Network Settings (page 24).

Option 2

If you do not need to configure Wireless Network Setup but you do need to configure Analog Sensor Ports, proceed to Configuring Analog Sensor Ports (page 14).

Option 3

If you do not need to:

- configure Wireless Network Setup for the U30/Wi-Fi or U30 Ethernet, or

- configure Analog Sensor Ports

Continue with this procedure.

4. Connect Battery (page 65)

NOTE: As long as your battery has adequate charge, you do not need to connect the solar panel or AC adapter for this initial setup/test launch.

The U30 Station will connect to HOBOlink at the next Connection Interval.

Proceed to Final HOBOlink Setup and Test (page 18).

Onset Computer Corp

Final HOBOlink Setup and Test

This topic describes the final HOBOlink setup and system test.

Before You Begin

This procedure assumes that you have completed the Initial HOBOlink Setup (page 11) and Initial Hardware Setup (page 12).

Steps

1. If you are not logged into HOBOlink, log into HOBOlink now.

2. Perform additional HOBOlink configuration if required (Label Sensors, Configure

Alarms). See the HOBOlink Quick Start Guide or the HOBOlink Help for details.

3. Check the Device Status and the graphs to verify that sensors are reporting correctly and

the HOBO U30 Station is being readout properly.

4. When you are satisfied that the HOBO U30 Station and HOBOlink are working properly,

change your Logging Interval and Connection Interval to your desired settings for deployment.

5. Repack the logger and sensors for transit.

Onset strongly recommends that you use the original packaging when possible because it is custom-designed to protect the weather station and its components.

NEXT TASK: Installing the U30 Station in the Field (page 28).

Onset Computer Corp

Installing Mounting Plates

Screw the mounting plates onto the back of the HOBO U30 Station case using a Phillips-head screwdriver. Be careful to orient the plates as shown below so that the screw heads are sunk into the screw holes.

Figure 4: Installing Mounting Plates

Onset Computer Corp

Connecting Smart Sensors

Before You Begin

• Connect Smart Sensors before you begin logging with the U30. Smart Sensors plugged in

after logging has already begun will be ignored.

• This procedure assumes that the Smart Sensor Expander Board and connector are

already installed. See page 56 for information.

Steps

NOTE: If you are using the Smart Sensor Expander Board, connect sensors to those ports first.

1. Run cables through the Secondary Cable Slot.

Figure 5: Run Cables through Secondary Slots

2. Plug the cables into the Smart Sensor Expander Board.

Figure 6: Plug cables into Expander Board

Onset Computer Corp

3. Run cables for remaining Smart Sensors through the Primary Cable Slots and connect the

cables into the Primary Smart Sensor Ports.

Figure 7: Plug Cables into Primary Slot

Onset Computer Corp

Connecting Analog Sensors

Refer to the specific sensor documentation for terminal connection details and use the pinout diagram on page 72 to connect a two- or three-wire sensor or transducer to the module’s terminals.

Figure 8: Connecting Analog Sensors

Steps

To make the connection:

1. Loosen the screw for each pin on the connector.

2. Insert the appropriate wire, which should be trimmed to 0.25 inches, ±0.04 inches of

bare wire exposed.

Make sure all wires attached to the Analog Sensor Port are routed through the cable access opening.

3. Tighten the screw.

Note on Cables

To fit into the holes in the rubber cable channel, the ideal cable diameter is 0.157 in (4.0 mm). If the cable is too small, build up the diameter using heat shrink. If it is too big and you are using the secondary cable access opening, then place the cable through the left-most hole in the rubber cable channel where the diameter can be up to 0.25 in (6.4 mm).

If you are not using the secondary opening or the cable is still too big, then splice on another cable with a smaller diameter to fit through the hole. See the steps later in this section for working with the rubber cable channel.

Onset Computer Corp

Connecting the Battery

This topic illustrates how to connect the battery to the U30 Station.

Before You Begin

NOTE: You should not connect the battery until you have performed Initial HOBOlink Setup (page 11).

Illustration

Connect the built-in battery cable to the battery as shown below.

Figure 9: Connecting the Battery

Onset Computer Corp

NETWORK SETTINGS

Configuring Wireless Network Settings

This is a branch of the Basic Hardware Setup procedure (page 17), for those who need to configure wireless network (WLAN) settings for the U30/Wi-Fi. Note that you will need to change the settings every time you access a different wireless network.

IMPORTANT: If you are not familiar with network configuration, consult with your Network Administrator or IT Department.

Steps

1. Download the HOBO NetSetup utility. Go to this URL and click the HOBO Network tab

to download the utility required for setting up your U30 Station to work with your wireless network: http://www.onsetcomp.com/support/software_utilities

Note: The HOBO NetSetup Utility requires Microsoft .NET Framework (Version 4.0 or above) installed. To determine if you have this installed on your computer, go to Start > Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs to see if it is in the list of currently installed programs. A link to .NET is also located at the same location as the HOBO NetSetup utility.

2. Run HOBO NetSetup. Double-click the HOBO_NetSetup.exe file to run the HOBO

NetSetup utility.

3. Connect the U30 Station. Make sure the U30 is not powered (battery and/or AC

adapter cables should be disconnected). Connect the U30 Station to the computer with the USB cable, then plug in the battery to power up the U30 Station. Click Begin in the HOBO NetSetup utility.

Onset Computer Corp

4. Enter information about your Wi-Fi network. Complete the Basic Networking and

WIFI panels in the Network Configuration screen as explained below. If you are using a U30/Ethernet, you only need to fill in the Basic Networking panel.

Basic Networking

By default, DHCP is set to Enabled, which is frequently used for small wireless networks. If your network uses static IP addresses, set DHCP to Disabled and enter the following:

• IP Address: Use a unique address in the network.

• Gateway Address: The gateway address, or router, allows communication to

other LAN segments. The gateway address should be the IP address of the router connected to the same LAN segment as the unit and it must be within the local network.

• Netmask: The netmask defines the number of bits taken from the IP address that

are assigned for the host part.

Note: The unit’s configuration is stored in nonvolatile memory and is retained without power. You can change the configuration at any time. The unit performs a reset after the configuration has been changed and stored.

WIFI

You will need the network name, password, and settings to add the U30/Wi-Fi to your network (you do not need to configure these settings for a U30/Ethernet model; click

+ 79 hidden pages

Onset hobo u30, HOBO U30 Station User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual