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HHOOBBO
O
®
®
UU3300 NNRRCC
((NNoo RReemmoottee
CCoommmmuunniiccaattiioonn))
User’s Guide
onset®
© 2008 Onset Computer Corporation. All rights reserved.
Onset, HOBO, and HOBOware are trademarks or registered trademarks of
Onset Computer Corporation for its data logger products and
configuration/interface software.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective companies.
Onset Computer Corporation
470 MacArthur Blvd.
Bourne, MA 02532
Part #: MAN-U30-NRC
Doc #: D-11866-A
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide i
Warnings
ii HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Contact Information
For support, please contact the company that you bought the products from:
Onset Computer Corporation or an Onset Authorized Dealer.
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
Hours of Operation: 8 AM to 5 PM ET, Monday through Friday
E-mail: loggerhelp@onsetcomp.com
Main Onset Web site: www.onsetcomp.com
If you purchased the products through an Onset Authorized Dealer, you can
also refer to www.hobohelp.com for support information.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide iii
Contents
Warnings ....................................................................................... i
Contact Information ...................................................................... ii
Chapter One: Overview ............................................................ 1
Introduction .................................................................................. 1
Key Features ............................................................................... 2
HOBO U30 NRC Station Components ........................................ 3
Smart Sensors ............................................................................. 6
The Analog Sensor Port (Optional) ............................................. 7
Chapter Two: Initial Setup and Test ........................................ 9
Procedure .................................................................................... 9
Installing the Mounting Plates .................................................... 10
Connecting Smart Sensors ........................................................ 11
Connecting Analog Sensors ...................................................... 13
Connecting the Battery .............................................................. 14
Connecting the U30 to a Computer ........................................... 15
Connecting the U30 to HOBOware Pro ..................................... 16
Configuring the Analog Sensor Port .......................................... 18
Launching the U30 NRC ............................................................ 21
Checking the U30 Status ........................................................... 23
Reading Out the U30 NRC ........................................................ 25
Chapter Three: Installing the U30 in the Field ........................ 27
Procedure .................................................................................. 28
Installing Grounding Wire .......................................................... 30
Installing Weatherproof Cable Channel(s) ................................. 31
Connect Solar Panel or AC Power ............................................ 35
Launching the U30 NRC in the Field ......................................... 36
Chapter Four: The Battery ...................................................... 37
iv HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Maximizing Battery Life .............................................................. 38
Battery Voltage .......................................................................... 39
Estimating Battery Life without External Power ......................... 40
Maintaining the Battery .............................................................. 41
Charging a Dead Battery ........................................................... 42
Replacing the Battery ................................................................ 43
Chapter Five: Maintenance .................................................... 45
General Maintenance ................................................................ 45
Inspecting the HOBO U30 Station ............................................. 46
Adding a New Sensor ................................................................ 47
Removing or Replacing Sensors ............................................... 48
Testing Smart Sensors .............................................................. 49
Chapter Six: Troubleshooting .............................................. 51
LED Descriptions ....................................................................... 51
Problems and Solutions ............................................................. 53
Chapter Seven: Reference ......................................................... 57
Specifications ............................................................................. 58
Time Accuracy ........................................................................... 61
Memory ...................................................................................... 62
Power ......................................................................................... 63
Accessories................................................................................ 64
Appendix C: The Smart Sensor Expander Board ......................... 65
Accessing the Secondary Cable Slot ........................................ 65
Installing the Expander Board ................................................... 68
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide v
Supplementary Information ............................................................ 71
Warranty .................................................................................... 72
Returns ...................................................................................... 74
Repair Policy .............................................................................. 75
Contacting Technical Support.................................................... 76
vi HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 1
Chapter One: Overview
Introduction
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.
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
2 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) Use r’s Guide
Key Features
Automatic Detection of Smart Sensors
The HOBO U30 Station automatically recognizes Smart Sensors; simply
plug 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.
Optional Analog Sensor Port
The HOBO U30 Station can be optionally configured with an Analog Sensor
Port, which includes two user-configurable inputs that 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 Port is factory-installed.
See The Analog Sensor Port (Optional) on page 7.
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 data for years.
See The Battery on page 37.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 3
HOBO U30 NRC Station Components
U30 NRC Components
4 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) Use r’s Guide
Component Descriptions
Item Description
1. LED
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 see LED Descriptions
on page 51.
2. Logger The U30 sits inside the outer case.
3. Analog Sensor Port
This connector is where the optional Analog
Sensor Port is factory-installed.
4. USB port
Plug in a USB cable here to connect directly
to a computer.
5. Smart Sensor Expansion
Board
6. Vent
This vent allows pressure to equalize inside
the enclosure, but does not allow liquid to
pass through.
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.
7. Cable access openings
All cables and wires are routed through a
protective rubber cable channel placed in this
opening. If you are using the optional
expander board for additional Smart Sensors,
you will need to use both cable access
openings. See Accessing the Secondary
Cable on page 65.
8. Smart Sensor ports
Connect up to five Smart Sensors in these
RJ-12 jacks. Use one port to connect the
optional expander board for additional Smart
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 5
Sensors.
9. Battery
A 4-volt sealed lead-acid (SLA) battery is
located behind the internal enclosure.
10. Battery connector
Plug in the 4-volt sealed lead-acid battery
here.
11. Ground connector
Plug in grounding wire here to ground the
system. Systems that are installed on roofs or
other exposed locations should be grounded.
12. External power supply
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.
13. Internal enclosure
This provides a second weatherproof housing
for the electronics in the HOBO U30 Station.
There is no need to ever open this, and
opening it will void the warranty.
6 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) Use r’s Guide
Smart Sensors
Smart Sensor 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.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 7
The Analog Sensor Port (Optional)
The Analog Sensor Port is an easy-to-configure, flexible DC signalconditioning 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 in
HOBOware Pro software. Configuration options include channel names,
scaling parameters, and excitation power.
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
Functional block diagram
Analog Sensor Port Functional Block Diagram
8 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) Use r’s Guide
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 9
Chapter Two: Initial Setup and Test
Procedure
Before you take the U30 Station into the field for deployment you should
perform some preliminary hardware assembly, configuration, and testing.
1. Access Secondary Cable Slot (page 65) (if applicable)
If you ordered a Smart Sensor Expander Board and you will be
using those ports now, you must remove the covering on the
Secondary Cable Slot.
2. Install Mounting Plates (page 10)
3. Connect Smart Sensors (page 11) and Analog Sensors (page 13).
Onset recommends that you test all sensors you plan to deploy with
the logger.
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.
4. Connect Battery (page 14).
5. Connect U30 to a computer (page 15 ).
6. Run HOBOware and select the U30 (page 16).
7. Configure the Analog Sensor Port (page 18).
8. Launch the U30 (page 21).
9. Check the U30 Status (page 23)
10. Readout the U30 (page 25)
11. 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.
10 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Installing the 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.
Installing the mounting plates
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 11
Connecting Smart Sensors
NOTE: Connect Smart Sensors before you begin logging with the U30.
Smart Sensors plugged in after logging has already begun will be ignored.
Secondary Cable Slots
Before You Begin
This procedure assumes that the Smart Sensor Expander Board and
connector are already installed. See page 65.
If you are using the Smart Sensor Expander Board, connect sensors to those
ports first.
1. Run cables for secondary Smart Sensors through the Secondary Cable
Opening.
2. Plug the cables into the Smart Sensor Expander Board.
12 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Primary Cable Slots
1. Run cables for Smart Sensors through the Primary Cable Opening.
2. Plug the cables into the primary Smart Sensor ports.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 13
Connecting Analog Sensors
Refer to the sensor documentation for sensor connection details and use the
pin out diagram below to connect a two- or three-wire sensor or transducer
to the module’s terminals.
To make the connection:
1. Loosen the screw for each pin on the connector.
2. Insert the appropriate wire. See Pin Out below.
3. Tighten the screw.
Analog Port Pin Out
Pin #
Left
Function Pin #
Right
Function
1 Shield 1 Shield
2 Channel 1 Signal 2 Channel 2 Signal
3 Channel 1 Return 3 Channel 2 Return
4 Excitation Voltage 4 Excitation Return
Cables
Make sure all wires attached to the Analog Sensor Port are routed through
the cable access opening.
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.
14 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Connecting the Battery
Connect the built-in battery cable to the battery.
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.
Connecting the Battery
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 15
Connecting the U30 to a Computer
To connect to a computer running HOBOware Pro, plug the “mini-B” 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.
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.
16 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Connecting the U30 to HOBOware Pro
To connect the U30 to HOBOware Pro:
1. Launch HOBOware Pro.
2. From the Device menu select Select Device ….
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 17
3. 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 connected device and
indicate Ready.
You can now begin configuring or monitoring the device.
18 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Configuring the Analog Sensor Port
This topic provides the basic steps for configuring the analog sensor port.
See the HOBOware User Guide for complete details.
Steps
To configure an Analog Sensor Port, perform the following steps:
1. From the Device menu, choose Configure Modules/Ports.
The Select Channel to Configure dialog will appear showing all configurable
Analog Sensors attached to the U30 Station.
2. Click on the + sign to expand the entry and show the channels.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 19
3. Select a channel and then click the Configure button.
NOTE: The default channel names are just place holders. 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. You can change the name and measurement type of the
channel in the Configure Channel pane.
20 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
The Configure Channel window appears.
4. Change any configurable parameters as required:
Channel Name: You can select Current or Voltage or enter a
custom label to represent the type of measurement the sensor is
taking. For example if you are connecting a level sensor, you could
make the Channel Name Level.
Excitation Power: See the HOBOware User Manual for details.
Measurement Type: Select desired type corresponding to the
sensor output. If you change the default Channel Name make sure
you the Measurement Type to match.
Scaling Parameters: Select the unit to be scaled and then map
values to new units as required. See the HOBOware User Manual
for details.
5. Click Configure to send the configuration to the port.
The Analog Sensor Port is now configured and you can launch the U30.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 21
Launching the U30 NRC
1. Click the Launch icon on the toolbar to display the Launch
window.
The Launch Logger window appears.
22 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
2. Complete fields as required.
Description: Enter a description if desired.
Channels to Log: Make sure all of the sensors connected to the logger
are visible in the Channels to Log pane.
Logging Interval: Choose a logging interval of 10 seconds so that your
test will yield enough data to analyze. When you re-launch the logger in
the field, you will change this to your desired value for deployment.
Launch Options: Select Now.
3. Click Launch.
The “logging ok” light on the logger should blink every two seconds during
logging.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 23
Checking the U30 Status
1. From the main menu go to Device > Status to open the Status
window.
The Status window appears, showing the status of the logger and the
attached sensors.
24 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
2. Verify Sensor Readings
Change the sensor readings by changing the conditions.
For example, if you are measuring temperature, hold the
temperature sensor in your hands for a minute or two and verify that
the temperature shown in the Current Readings increases.
3. Close the Status window by clicking OK.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 25
Reading Out the U30 NRC
1. Click the Readout icon on the toolbar to open the Readout window
(or from the main menu go to Device > Readout).
2. When HOBOware Pro asks if you want to stop the logger before
reading out, click Stop.
3. When HOBOware Pro prompts you to save the data file, click Save.
4. Review the data and verify that it is accurate. The graph should
reflect the change in conditions that you caused previously.
26 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
5. Stop Logging
Once you are satisfied everything is working properly, stop the
logger by clicking the Stop icon on the toolbar (or from the main
menu go to Device > Stop).
After the logger has been stopped, the data remains in the logger
until the next launch.
6. Prepare Logger for deployment.
You are now ready to deploy the U30 in the field. If you are not
deploying the system immediately, disconnect the battery to save
battery power. You can also disconnect the sensors for transporting
the system to the field.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 27
Chapter Three:
Installing the U30 in the Field
Tools Required
• A notebook computer with HOBOware Pro installed is
recommended for launching the U30 after setup.
• Bladed screwdriver or chisel
• Phillips-head screw driver
• Small flat-head screw driver for Analog Sensor Port screw
terminals (if applicable)
• Wrench or socket driver
• File
• Silicone grease
• Plugs for unused cable channel holes
• Grounding wire
28 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Procedure
Before You Begin
Before you head into the field for installing the U30, use the checklist in
Appendix C to make sure you have the necessary tools to set up the logger
and tripod in the field.
Steps
This procedure assumes that you have performed the preliminary hardware
setup and configuration and have performed a pre-deployment test (see
Chapter 2, page 9).
1. Setup the Tripod.
2. Mount the U30.
3. Install grounding wire (optional) (page 30).
4. Plug all Smart Sensors into the HOBO U30 Station (if not already
plugged in) making sure all cables are routed through the cable
access opening(s) (page 11).
5. Connect Analog Sensors to the Analog Sensor Port, if applicable
(page 13).
NOTE: It may be necessary to build-up the diameter third-party
sensors with heat-shrink or electrical tape to match the diameter of
the holes in the rubber cable channels and ensure a weather-tight
seal.
6. Run the cable for a solar panel or AC adapter through the Primary
Cable Slot, but do not connect it yet.
7. Install the weatherproof cable channel (page 31).
8. Connect the battery (page 14).
9. Connect the solar panel or AC adapter (page 35).
10. Verify that the HOBO U30 Station powers up properly.
11. Connect the U30 to a notebook computer (page 15).
12. Connect the U30 to HOBOware Pro (page 16).
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 29
13. Configure Launch Settings.
14. Disconnect the computer from the U30 (make sure you remove the
USB cable from the U30).
15. Close the door and snap the hinges shut on the HOBO U30 Station
case. Consider using padlocks to secure the case.
The system should begin operating as configured.
30 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Installing Grounding Wire
You should install the grounding wire if you are using the Wind Speed and
Direction Smart Sensor (S-WCA-MXXX) or if you are installing the HOBO
U30 Station on a roof or in a location with exposure to lightning.
The grounding wire may also be helpful in reducing sensor errors when
installing the HOBO U30 Station near other radio or electrical equipment or
antennas.
Insert the grounding wire through the opening and plug it into the ground
connector.
Connect Grounding Wire
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 31
Installing Weatherproof Cable
Channel(s)
All cables and wires should be routed through the cable access opening at
this point. If you are using the Smart Sensor expander board, make sure
those cables are routed through the secondary cable access opening.
1. Grease the Cable Channel
Apply a small amount of silicone grease (about the size of a pea) onto
your fingertip and then work a light coating into the top, bottom, and
two ends (the sides with no holes) of the rubber cable channel. Also put
a light coating on the inside of the two halves of the cable channel.
Greasing the cable channel
32 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
2. Place Cables in Channel
Hold the channel just below the HOBO U30 Station case (with the
channel’s hinged side on the left and the taper facing in).
Open the channel and lay the cables and wires into the grooves.
NOTE: The solar panel or AC adapter cable must be in the leftmost
(larger diameter) groove.
NOTE: Use the small rubber plugs to fill any unused grooves.
Center the thick part of the plugs in the groove. Plug ‘tails’ can face
in or out. It may be easier to install these after the rubber cable
channel has been pushed into the case. Insert the thin part of the
plug into the hole and pull to center the thick part of the plug in the
channel.
Installing Cable Channel
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 33
3. Press Channel into Case
a) Close the channel, making sure the cables, wires, and any plugs
remain in their grooves.
b) Press the channel into the opening.
To reduce the amount of excess cable in the case (especially when
several Smart Sensors are connected), gently pull the cables toward
you as you press the channel into place.
Press the channel in until it is flush with the outside of the case.
(When fully seated, the channel will project slightly into the inside
of the case.)
Channel pressed into case
4. If you are using the Smart Sensor expander board, then repeat these
steps with the second cable channel. Use the larger plug for the leftmost
hole if necessary.
34 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
5. Secure Channel Guide
Screw the retaining bars on to the case to secure the channel(s). The bars
should be flat against the case.
Finger-tighten only! Do not use a screwdriver to tighten the thumb
screws. You may need a screwdriver to loosen them after time in the
field.
Retaining bars installed
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 35
Connect Solar Panel or AC Power
Connect a Solar Panel or AC Power, as shown below.
IMPORTANT: Make sure you run the cable through the Primary Cable Slot
before you install the weatherproof cable channel.
Important: If at any point you need to unplug the battery, unplug the solar
panel or AC adapter first. Damage may occur to the HOBO U30 Station if
the battery is unplugged before disconnecting the solar panel or AC adapter.
Connecting Solar Panel or AC Power
36 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Launching the U30 NRC in the Field
When you launch the U30 NRC in the field, change your Logging Interval
and Launch Options to the actual values you want to use in deployment.
1. Connect your notebook computer to the U30 (see Connecting the
U30 to on page 15).
2. Connect the U30 to HOBOware Pro (see page 16).
3. Click the Launch icon on the toolbar to display the Launch window
(or from the Main Menu go to Device > Launch).
The Launch Logger window appears.
4. Configure Logging Interval and Launch Options as desired. See
the HOBOware Users Manual for details.
5. Click Launch.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 37
Chapter Four: The Battery
This chapter includes the following topics:
• Maximizing Battery Life - page 38
• Battery Voltage - page 39
• Estimating Battery Life without External Power - page 40
• Maintaining the Battery - page 41
• Charging a Dead Battery - page 42
• Replacing the Battery - page 43
38 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Maximizing Battery Life
Battery life will vary with the following factors:
• Sensor excitation current and warm-up time
• Logging interval (and sampling interval, if applicable) selected
• Number of sensors being used
• Operating environment (e.g., temperature)
• Size of the solar panel (if applicable)
• Quality and quantity of solar light (if a solar panel is installed)
Here are some tips to maximize battery life:
• Reduce warm-up time. If you are using excitation voltage, select
the shortest warm-up time needed for the sensor.
• Ensure that your solar panel gets full sunlight. Solar panels are
extremely sensitive to partial shading. Obstructing even a single cell
of the panel will result in significant loss of charging power.
• Use the sampling interval only if you have sensors that support
measurement averaging.
• Stay within the normal operating temperature range. While the
logger can operate at temperatures of -40 to 60 C (-40 to 140 F) the
battery has much better short and long term performance when
maintained between -20 and 40 C (-4 and 104 C). The Sealed Lead
Acid will self-discharge. The hotter the battery gets, the faster it
will self-discharge. At 20 C, the battery loses about 20% of its
capacity in 6 months, but at 50C it loses more than 50%. To
maximize battery life (no charging) try to locate the logger where
the temperatures will not be above 40 C (104F). Very cold
temperatures will reduce the self-discharge rate to almost zero, but
the effective capacity of the battery will be reduced. Temperatures
below -20 C (-4 F) will reduce the effective battery capacity by
more than 25%.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 39
Battery Voltage
The normal operating range for the battery is 3.9 to 4.3 volts. If the voltage
drops below the normal range, the HOBO U30 Station will change behavior
to maximize the remaining voltage until the battery can be recharged.
The following chart explains what occurs at various voltage levels. The
voltage used in determining behavior is based on a 20-minute average.
Battery voltage Details
4.3 to 4.5 volts The battery is being charged.
4.3 volts The battery is fully charged.
3.0 to 3.6 volts
Level at which the HOBO U30 Station will perform a
safe shutdown and logging will stop.
Use the AC adapter to recharge the battery (leave it
plugged in for twelve hours).
Plug the battery in.
Plug the solar panel back in.
You may want to do a full readout before re-launching
to be sure you have all the data from the logger.
Approximately
3.0 volts
The battery is too low to safely be charged with the
HOBO U30 Station and may need to be replaced.
Connecting the AC adapter at this point will not
recharge the battery. To recharge the battery, a separate
battery charger will be required.
Important: Do not re-launch the logger until the data
has been recovered. The logger uses very durable,
high-capacity Flash memory. With this memory, data is
retained even when the battery runs out of charge.
After you replace the battery, attempt to read out the
data. If you are still unable to read out the station once
the battery has been replaced, contact the vendor that
sold it to you. It may be possible to retrieve the logged
data.
40 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Estimating Battery Life without External
Power
The HOBO U30 Station is designed to be used with a power source to keep
the 4-volt sealed lead-acid battery charged. Ideally, the power source is
always connected and the battery will be constantly trickle-charged.
If external power source has stopped supplying power (e.g. there is power
failure or the solar panel is covered), the HOBO U30 Station is capable of
running from battery power alone for extended periods of time.
The following table can be used as a guideline for estimating how long a
HOBO U30 Station will run without any source of external power. For these
examples, the HOBO U30 Station has up to ten sensors installed and no
excitation on the Analog Sensor Port. It is not recommended that the U30 be
deployed for longer than 6 months without any charging as the battery may
be damaged from sulfation due to the long-term low-voltage state.
Typical Run Time
Logging Interval 4.5 AHr Battery
(S045)
10 AHr Battery
(S100)
1 second 1 - 2 months 2 - 3 months
1 minute 4 - 6 months 6 months
5 minutes 6+ months 6 months
Estimating battery life when excitation is used must be calculated based
upon actual drain (current, duration and logging frequency). If excitation
averages more than 1 mA, and charging in the field is not possible, it is
recommended that the 10 AHr (S100) battery option be used with the U30.
See the Support section at www.onsetcomp.com for additional information
on estimating battery life and selecting the correct size solar panel.
Page 25
HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 41
Maintaining the Battery
The rechargeable battery requires an external power source to work properly.
The Power section on page 63 explains this in detail as well as how to
maximize battery life and how you can expect the HOBO U30 Station to
operate at varying voltage levels.
If you are using a solar panel for recharging the battery and there has been a
steady decline in battery voltage, you will need to make a change by either
reducing power consumption or increasing recharging current. Start by
reducing the logging interval and/or excitation current (if you are using it).
Try cleaning the solar panel or repositioning it for maximum sunlight. You
can also attempt to recharge the battery for 24 hours.
If the voltage is still low after attempting to recharge the battery with an AC
adapter for 24 hours, then you may need to charge it with a current limited
variable power supply or replace it (both tasks are described below)
Important:
Due to the self-discharge characteristics of this type of
battery, it is imperative that you charge the battery for at
least 12 hours every six months at minimum, even if you
are not actively using the HOBO U30 Station. Otherwise,
permanent loss of battery capacity may occur.
42 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Charging a Dead Battery
In the event the battery is completely dead (less than 3.0 volts and the logger
lights do not come on when the battery is connected), you can charge the
battery externally with a current limited variable power supply (otherwise
you must replace the battery). Hold the battery across a constant voltage
source of 4.5 volts with a current limit of 2 Amps. When held at this voltage,
the battery will seek its own current level and maintain itself in a fully
charged condition. It takes up to 24 hours to fully charge a dead battery.
Important:
Do not apply more than 4.6 volts absolute maximum to the
battery. Do not exceed 2 Amps of current when charging.
If the battery gets hot, immediately stop charging the
battery. If the battery will not hold charge, it must be
replaced. Dispose of the old battery per local regulations.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 43
Replacing the Battery
If the battery is completely dead and recharging it is not an option, then
follow these steps to replace the battery:
1. Disconnect the AC adapter or solar panel.
2. Disconnect the battery.
3. Unplug all sensors, the USB cable, relay, and grounding wire.
4. Unscrew the antenna cable with a 5/16 inch wrench.
5. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the four screws at the
corners of the clear, inner case.
6. Remove the clear, inner case.
7. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the two screws that
secure the battery.
8. Note the orientation of the battery and then remove it.
9. Install the new battery with the same orientation and reverse the
steps to reassemble.
10. Dispose of the old battery per local regulations.
44 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Page 27
HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 45
Chapter Five: Maintenance
This chapter includes the following topics:
• General Maintenance - page 45
• Inspecting the HOBO U30 Station - page 46
• Adding a New Sensor - page 47
• Removing or Replacing Sensors - page 48
• Testing Smart Sensors - page 49
General Maintenance
Onset recommends that you periodically visit the HOBO U30 Station to
make sure it is operating as expected, data is still being recorded, and to
readout its data.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the accuracy of recorded
measurements. Performing regular maintenance checks allow you to:
• Verify that the logger is logging data and functioning as you expect
• Identify damage
• Minimize the impact of any existing damage
46 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Inspecting the HOBO U30 Station
Periodically perform a visual inspection of the HOBO U30 Station. Verify
that the enclosure is free of visible damage, such as cracks, and that it is
clean.
Check that all cables and wires are:
• Free of damage, such as cracks, cuts, and splits.
• Protected in conduit if necessary (exposed cables are prone to being
chewed by rodents and should be protected in conduit in locations
where rodents are present).
• Fastened securely.
• Free of corrosion and in good condition.
If moisture is visible inside the white enclosure or there is any sign of
corrosion on the connectors, spray WD-40
®
or an equivalent electronics-safe
corrosion inhibitor on the connectors. This will displace moisture and
prevent additional corrosion.
It is recommended that you wipe off any water on the outside of the HOBO
U30 case before opening it.
Maintain sensors as recommended in their user manual.
Verifying sensor accuracy
Onset recommends that you test most sensors for accuracy once a year using
HOBOware Pro. For details on verifying sensor accuracy, refer to the
documentation included with each sensor. For third-party sensors (even
those supplied by Onset), refer to documentation provided by the
manufacturer.
For a fee, Onset can verify the accuracy of a sensor. It may be possible to
recalibrate some sensors. Contact Onset Technical Support for details.
Cleaning the HOBO U30 Station
The HOBO U30 Station does not require specialized cleaning; however, if it
is deployed in a dusty or grimy location, you should wipe it down with a
damp cloth occasionally to keep it looking its best.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 47
Adding a New Sensor
New sensors will only be recognized by the HOBO U30 Station when it is
not logging. If you attempt to add a sensor while the logger is recording data,
it will be ignored. Logging will continue normally for all other sensors
already plugged in.
Smart Sensors
To add new Smart Sensors:
1. Using HOBOware Pro, stop the logger from logging
2. Readout the data from the logger.
IMPORTANT: All existing data will be lost when you re-launch
the logger.
3. Plug in any new Smart Sensors.
4. Re-launch the logger.
The new Smart Sensors should start recording measurements.
Analog Sensors
To add new sensors to the Analog Sensor Port:
1. Connect the HOBO U30 Station to a computer via the USB cable.
2. In HOBOware Pro, select Stop Logging.
3. Readout the data from the logger.
IMPORTANT: All existing data will be lost when you re-launch
the logger.
4. Connect the new sensors to the Analog Sensor Port.
5. Configure Analog Sensor Port for the new sensor.
6. Re-launch the logger.
The new sensors should start recording measurements.
48 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Removing or Replacing Sensors
If you remove a Smart Sensor while the HOBO U30 Station is logging, the
Logging LED will blink red, and the logger will record erroneous data for
that channel and continue logging as normal for the remaining Smart
Sensors. This behavior will continue even if you plug the Smart Sensor back
in, or if you plug in a new one of the same type. To stop recording erroneous
data after removing a Smart Sensor, you will need to stop, readout, and relaunch the HOBO U30 Station.
If you are replacing a Smart Sensor with a new one of the same type, you
will need to re-launch the HOBO U30 Station once the new Smart Sensor is
installed. The HOBO U30 Station can continue logging until you stop,
readout, and re-launch it with the new Smart Sensor.
You can remove analog sensors from the optional Analog Sensor Port or
replace them with new analog sensors of the exact same type in the same
channel without having to stop the logger. However, in the case that you are
changing the type of sensor, you will need to reconfigure the Analog Sensor
Port using HOBOware Pro, which will require you to stop the logger.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 49
Testing Smart Sensors
Use HOBOware Pro if you need to verify the accuracy of the Smart Sensors,
which is recommended on a yearly basis, or if you need to isolate a Smart
Sensor that is generating an error.
1. Connect the HOBO U30 Station to the computer using the USB
cable. If it is currently logging, stop logging through HOBOware
Pro.
2. Unplug all Smart Sensors if you are troubleshooting an error. You
can leave them plugged in if you are not getting any sensor errors
and you are just checking them for accuracy.
3. Plug one Smart Sensor back in. From the Launch dialog in
HOBOware Pro, check the current reading and make sure it is
accurate. Repeat with the remaining Smart Sensors.
50 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Page 30
HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 51
Chapter Six:
Troubleshooting
This chapter includes the following topics:
• LED Descriptions - page 51
• Problems and Solutions - page 53
LED Descriptions
The indicator LEDs can provide helpful clues as to what the HOBO U30
Station is doing, especially when it is not behaving as expected.
The following table defines LED indications.
Indicator LED Action What it means
Logging Blinking green
Indicates the system is currently
logging. It blinks every two seconds
while the logger is recording data
from sensors. Do not add sensors
while this indicator is blinking
unless you plan to relaunch.
If this indicator is not blinking when
you believe it should, make sure the
HOBO U30 Station has been
launched.
Blinking red
There was a Smart Sensor or
Analog Sensor Port communication
failure. Investigate this problem
immediately. Look for a loose
connection, which could cause bad
electrical contact with a sensor. If
found, remove the offending sensor
and check its wires and connector
for damage and/or signs of
moisture.
Blinking orange
There was a communication failure,
52 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Indicator LED Action What it means
but the system has recovered. There
may be an intermittent problem. Try
checking the Smart Sensors one at a
time to make sure they are all
communicating. If you find a bad
sensor, or if no sensor
communicates, contact your Onset
Authorized Dealer or Onset
Technical Support.
Sensor Active Blinking
Smart Sensor network
communications are occurring.
USB
Communication
Blinking
There is active communication from
the HOBO U30 Station to the
computer.
Analog Sensor
Port: Active
Blinking green
The Analog Sensor Port is making a
measurement.
Analog Sensor
Port: Ex. On
Blinking orange
Excitation has been turned on for
the Analog Sensor Port.
Tip
The indicators are very faint under direct sunlight. If no
indicators appear to be blinking, shield the logger from the
light and check the indicators again.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 53
Problems and Solutions
The following chart lists common problems you may encounter with the
HOBO U30 Station and solutions.
Problem Solution
N
o status
indicators are
blinking
The logger has not have been launched, launch
logger with HOBOware.
The indicators are very faint under direct sunlight. If
no indicators appear to be blinking, shield the logger
from the light and check the indicators again.
Check the status with HOBOware Pro. Make sure the
battery power is not too low.
The memory may be full. Read out the logger and re-
launch. You may also want to enable Wrap Around
When Full so that the HOBO U30 Station can
continuously log and overwrite oldest data. See the
Launching section.
You need to stop
logging
Connect to the HOBO U30 Station to a USB cable and
stop logging with HOBOware Pro. Or, unplug the solar
panel or AC adapter and then unplug the battery. You
will need to re-launch the logger to resume logging.
Too much battery
power is being
used
Make sure the solar panel is large enough for your
application and that it is installed properly and
functioning. That should provide enough power to
recharge the battery during the day. Or, use the AC
adapter to recharge the battery.
See Maximizing Battery Life on page 38.
54 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Problem Solution
The power has run
out
Try recharging the battery by connecting the AC
Adapter for 12 hours.
If the HOBO U30 Station is completely dead (below
3.5 volts) you will need to charge the battery with an
external battery charger or power supply or replace
it. See page 41 for details.
If the battery will not hold any charge (i.e. it quickly
fails even after a full 12 hour charge), you may need
to replace the battery. Contact your Onset Authorized
Dealer or Onset Technical Support.
The logger uses very durable, high-capacity Flash
memory. With this memory, data is retained even when
the battery runs out of charge.
Important: Do not relaunch the logger until the data has
been recovered. If, the battery cannot be recharged and,
you are still unable to read out the HOBO U30 Station,
contact the vendor that sold it to you. It may be possible
to retrieve the logged data.
Only some of the
installed sensors
are logging
Check for a loose connection.
If using the Smart Sensor Expander board, make sure
it is connected to the built-in Smart Sensor board
with the expander cable.
Make sure you have not exceeded 100 meters (328
ft) of network cable for all Smart Sensors.
Make sure you have not exceeded 15 data channels.
Use HOBOware Pro to see a list of all installed
sensors and Analog Sensor Ports in the Launch
window. The Smart Sensors are listed in ascending
order by serial number. If more than 15 data channels
are connected, the devices with the higher serial
numbers will be ignored and their data will not be
recorded.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 55
Problem Solution
Data file contains
errors (a value of -
888.888)
The solution depends on whether the error is intermittent
or persistent. Intermittent errors are random and usually
single points. They cause the Logging LED to blink
orange. Persistent errors are multiple points in a row and
cause the Logging LED to blink red.
Intermittent errors can occur from a variety of causes
such as:
RF interference
Nearby lightning strikes
Moisture on the sensor electronics
A loose connection
Persistent errors are typically caused by a complete
sensor failure, usually resulting from a cut cable,
disconnected sensor, faulty extension cable, or sensor
housing flooding. The sensor most likely needs to be
replaced. Contact your Onset Authorized Dealer or
Onset Technical Support.
Data file is
missing data for a
sensor
Check that the sensor is properly installed and
configured. Remove and reconnect the sensor, and check
the status in HOBOware Pro to verify that it can report
accurate readings. Make sure it is located at least one
foot away from the station case (two feet away if it is the
Leaf Wetness Smart Sensor). If you find that it is not
communicating, it may be damaged. Contact your Onset
Authorized Dealer or Onset Technical Support.
Data file cannot
be opened
In rare circumstances, the data file may have become
corrupted. Contact your Onset Authorized Dealer or
Onset Technical Support.
Device is not
found when
connected to
HOBOware Pro
Check USB cable connections.
Check the computer’s COM port/USB settings.
56 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Page 33
HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 57
Chapter Seven:
Reference
This chapter discusses the following reference topics:
• Specifications - page 58
• Time Accuracy - page 61
• Memory - page 62
• Power - page 63
• Accessories - page 64
58 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Specifications
HOBO U30 Station
Normal Operating Range -20 to 40°C (-4 to 104°F)
Extended Operating Range -40 to 60°C (-40 to 140°F)
Sensor Inputs 5 standard; option to expand to 10
Smart Sensor
Compatibility
Compatible with most Onset smart
sensors, except for the S-BPA, S-TMA and
S-THA. See onsetcomp.com for the full
list of compatible sensors.
Data Channels
Maximum of 15 (some sensors use more
than one data channel; see sensor manual
for details).
Expansion Slot
One expansion slot is available for factoryinstalled expansion port. Check
www.onsetcomp.com for the latest list of
options.
Local Communication
Full Speed USB via USB mini-B
connector
Dimensions
17.8 H x 11.7 D x 19.3 W cm (7.0 H x 4 .6
D x 7.6 W inches)
Weight 2 kg (4 lbs 10 oz)
Materials
Outer Enclosure: ABS blend with stainless
steel hinge pins and bronze inserts
Inner Enclosure: Polycarbonate with
bronze inserts
U-Bolts: Steel with zinc dichromate finish
Gaskets: Silicone rubber
Cable entry channel: EPDM rubber
Cable entry bars: Aluminum with ABS
plastic thumb screws
Data Storage Memory
Nonvolatile flash data storage, 512K bytes
local storage
Memory Modes Stop when full, wrap around when full
Operational Indicators
Up to six (depending upon options) status
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 59
HOBO U30 Station
lights provide basic diagnostics
Logging Interval
1 second to 18 hours, user-specified
interval
Battery Type 4 Volt, 4.5 AHr or
10 AHr, Rechargeable sealed lead-acid
Rechargeable Battery
Service Life
Typical 3–5 years depending upon
conditions of use. Operation within the
extended operating range (but outside the
normal range) will reduce battery service
life.
Time Accuracy
0 to 2 seconds for the first data point and
±5 seconds per week at 25°C (77°F)
Environmental Rating
Weatherproof enclosure, tested to NEMA
6. (Requires proper installation of cable
channel system).
Mounting 3.8 cm (1.5 inch) mast or wall mount
Enclosure Access
Hinged door secured by two latches with
eyelets for securing with user-supplied
padlocks
Sensor Network Cable
Length
100 m (328 ft) maximum
External Power
External power is required. The system
optionally accepts the following Onset
solar panels (see the next section):
SOLAR-1.2W
SOLAR-3W
SOLAR-6W
Alternatively it accepts an AC power
adapter:
AC-U30
Specification
Approval pending
60 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Optional Analog Sensor Port Specifications
Input Channels Two, single-ended
Field Wiring
Two- or three-wire via screw terminals on
detachable connector, 16–24 AWG.
Replacement detachable connectors: Part
of spares kit, Part No. A-FS-CVIA-7P-1
Input Range
User-configurable: 0–20 mA DC, 0–20
VDC (suitable for 2.5, 5, 10V sensors)
Minimum / Maximum
Input Voltage
0 / 24 VDC
Minimum / Maximum
Input Current
0 / 24 mA DC
Minimum Current Source
Impedance
> 20 KΩ
Accuracy ± 0.25% of FSR from 50mV to FSV
ADC Resolution 12 bits
Excitation Power
Switched 12 VDC, up to 50 mA; userselectable warm-up from 5msec to 2
minutes.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 61
Time Accuracy
The internal clock in the HOBO U30 Station is set by the time zone when
the logger was launched and it will not change after a spring or fall time
change. If you want to see the data in HOBOware Pro in the new time,
change the time zone offset accordingly when you open the data file.
There are two common sources of errors with time reporting.
• Launch time loss. The HOBO U30 Station may lose up to two
seconds when it is launched. This is unavoidable.
• Clock drift. The long-term time accuracy is related to ambient
temperature. At 25°C (77°F), the worst-case error is ±8 parts per
million (PPM), or about 5 seconds per week. The error increases as
the temperature deviates from 25°C, as shown in the graph below.
At a constant temperature of -20°C, the logger time error could be
as much as 35 PPM (21 seconds per week). To keep clock drift
within your requirements, periodic relaunches may be required.
62 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Memory
The HOBO U30 Station contains 512K bytes of very reliable non-volatile
Flash memory, which retains data even if power runs out. Although the
HOBO U30 Station has a rechargeable battery and is designed to be
connected to either solar or AC power, the data would still be retained even
if it were to run out of power.
If Wrap Around When Full is enabled, the oldest data will be overwritten
with the newest data and logging will continue indefinitely.
The rate at which the memory will fill up depends on the number and type of
sensors connected and the logging interval. This is called the logging
duration. Adding sensors decreases the logging duration; increasing the
logging interval increases the logging duration. If you open the launch
window with HOBOware Pro and select a logging interval, it will provide
you with an estimate of when the logger will fill up with the sensor suite that
you have installed. (This is just a way to see how long it takes to fill
memory.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 63
Power
The HOBO U30 Station has a 4-volt sealed lead-acid. The battery will start
to run down if it is not recharged. Therefore, the system requires either a
solar panel or an AC adapter plugged in to ensure the battery does not run
too low.
Keep in mind that even rechargeable batteries eventually fail, and will not be
able to be recharged. With regular usage, the battery should last more than
two years. See the next section for details on how to maximize battery life.
Important:
Due to the self-discharge characteristics of this type of
battery, it is imperative that you charge the battery for at
least 12 hours every six months at minimum, even if you
are not actively using the HOBO U30 Station. Otherwise,
permanent loss of battery capacity may occur.
64 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Accessories
The following accessories can be used with the HOBO U30 Station. These
accessories can be purchased from an Onset Authorized Dealer, or directly
from Onset Computer Corporation.
For detailed information on these accessories, including new items that may
have been introduced after this manual was printed, refer to
www.onsetcomp.com.
Accessory (Onset Part #) Description
1.2 Watt, 6 Volt Solar Panel
(SOLAR-1.2W)
Solar Panel for sunny locations and/or
locations with low data transfer requirements.
AC Adapter (AC-U30)
110–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz AC linear power
supply. Output 6 Volts DC, 2 Amp.
5-Input Smart Sensor
Expansion Option
(S-ADAPT-X5-10)
Optional expander that increases the number
of Smart Sensor inputs from 5 to 10.
1-to-2 Smart Sensor splitter
(S-ADAPT-5)
Optional splitter expands one smart sensor
port into two.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 65
Appendix C: The Smart Sensor
Expander Board
Accessing the Secondary Cable Slot
Whether the Smart Sensor Expander Board was installed at the factory, or
you are installing one yourself, you must remove the piece covering the
Secondary Cable Slot to access the board. You should leave the cover
installed until you are ready to use the Expander Board.
Steps
1. Make sure the HOBO U30 Station is turned off and all cables are
disconnected.
2. Use a hammer and a bladed tool (e.g., screwdriver, chisel) to punch
through at the four corners and at the ends of the piece covering the
secondary cable bay.
Accessing secondary cable slot
66 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
3. Punch through along the bottom of the knockout and then tap
sharply in the middle to break into the opening. Remove the
hanging flap.
Remove Flap
4. Peel away any residual material.
Removing residual material
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 67
5. File any rough edges. For best results, the surfaces in the cable
access opening should be smooth so that the rubber cable channel
gasket will seal.
Filing rough edges
68 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Installing the Expander Board
Before You Begin
If you have not already done so, remove the piece covering the Secondary
Cable Slot (page 65).
Steps
1. Insert a self-tapping screw (supplied) into each end of the expander.
2. Lower expander onto the two standoffs near the bottom of the case.
3. Screw expander into place.
NOTE: The contacts of the expander jacks should be nearest to the bottom
of case as shown below.
CAUTION: Be careful not to trap the battery cable behind the board.
Installing Smart Sensor Expander Board
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 69
Alternate method
1. Place expander (without the screws) onto the standoffs.
2. Apply a small amount of clear grease (the grease supplied with this kit
can be used) at the end of the screwdriver to hold screws while lowering
them into place.
Attach screw to screwdriver
Install Expander Cable
1. Plug one end of the supplied expander cable into the rightmost jack of
the expander board.
2. Plug the other end into the rightmost jack of the built-in board.
Installing expander cable
70 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 71
Supplementary Information
This Chapter includes the following topics:
• Warranty - page 72
• Returns - page 74
• Repair Policy - page 75
• Contacting Technical Support - page 76
72 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Warranty
As part of Onset’s ongoing efforts to provide 100% customer satisfaction,
our Continuing Engineering Group constantly monitors and evaluates all of
our products and software. In the unlikely event any significant defect is
found, Onset will notify you. If you find a defect, please e-mail us at
loggerhelp@onsetcomp.com.
Onset Computer Corporation (“Onset”) warrants to the original end-user
Purchaser for a period of one year from the date of original purchase that the
HOBO product(s) purchased will be free from defect in material and
workmanship. During the warranty period Onset will, at its option, either
repair or replace products that prove to be defective in material or
workmanship. This warranty is void if the product has been damaged by the
Purchaser as a result of improper maintenance, abuse, misuse, mishandling,
misapplication, error or negligence of Purchaser, or if there has been an
unauthorized alteration, attachment or modification.
THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES BEYOND THE EXPRESSED
WARRANTY AS PROVIDED IN THIS DOCUMENT. IN NO EVENT
SHALL ONSET BE LIABLE FOR LOSS OF PROFITS OR INDIRECT,
CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR OTHER SIMILAR
DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY BREACH OF THIS CONTRACT
OR OBLIGATIONS UNDER THIS CONTRACT, INCLUDING BREACH
OF WARRANTY, NEGLIGENCE, STRICT LIABILITY, OR ANY
OTHER LEGAL THEORY.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. The Purchaser’s sole remedy and the limit
of Onset’s liability for any loss whatsoever shall not exceed the Purchaser’s
price of the product(s). The determination of suitability of products to the
specific needs of the Purchaser is solely the Purchaser’s responsibility.
THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES BEYOND THE EXPRESSED
WARRANTY IN THIS DOCUMENT. EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY
PROVIDED IN THIS DOCUMENT, THERE ARE NO OTHER
WARRANTIES EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTIBILITY
OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. NO INFORMATION OR
ADVICE GIVEN BY ONSET, ITS AGENTS OR EMPLOYEES SHALL
CREATE A WARRANTY OR IN ANY WAY INCREASE THE SCOPE
OF THE EXPRESSED WARRANTY OFFERED WITH THE SALE OF
THIS PRODUCT.
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HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 73
INDEMNIFICATION. Products supplied by Onset are not designed,
intended, or authorized for use as components intended for surgical implant
or ingestion into the body or other applications involving life-support, or for
any application in which the failure of the Onset-supplied product could
create or contribute to a situation where personal injury or death may occur.
Products supplied by Onset are not designed, intended, or authorized for use
in or with any nuclear installation or activity. Products supplied by Onset are
not designed, intended, or authorized for use in any aeronautical or related
application. Should any Onset supplied product or equipment be used in any
application involving surgical implant or ingestion, life-support, or where
failure of the product could lead to personal injury or death, or should any
Onset-supplied product or equipment be used in or with any nuclear
installation or activity, or in or with any aeronautical or related application or
activity, Purchaser will indemnify Onset and hold Onset harmless from any
liability or damage whatsoever arising out of the use of the product and/or
equipment in such manner.
LEGAL REMEDIES. This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You
may also have other rights which vary by jurisdiction. The remedies
provided herein are in lieu of all other remedies, express or implied.
74 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Returns
Please direct all warranty claims to the place of purchase. Before returning a
failed unit directly to Onset, you must obtain a Return Merchandise
Authorization (RMA) number from Onset. You must provide proof that you
purchased the Onset product(s) directly from Onset (purchase order number
or Onset invoice number). Onset will issue an RMA number that is valid for
30 days. You must ship the product(s), properly packaged against further
damage, to Onset (at your expense) with the RMA number marked clearly
on the outside of the package. Onset is not responsible for any package that
is returned without a valid RMA number or for the loss of the package by
any shipping company. Loggers must be clean before they are sent back to
Onset or they may be returned to you.
Note: For third-party sensors, Onset is acting as a distributor; manufacturer’s
warranty and repair/replacement information, if any, is in documentation
provided with the sensors.
Page 42
HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide 75
Repair Policy
Products that are returned after the warranty period or are damaged by the
customer as specified in the warranty provisions can be returned to Onset
with a valid RMA number for evaluation. Contact Onset for details and
pricing.
Data-Back Service
The HOBO U30 Station stores data in non-volatile flash data storage. Onset
will, if possible, recover your data to disk.
Tune Up Service
Onset will examine and retest any logger or sensor.
ASAP Repair Policy
For an additional charge, Onset will expedite the repair of a returned
product.
76 HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide
Contacting Technical Support
If you have questions about your HOBO logger, contact the company where
you purchased it (either Onset Computer Corporation or an Onset
Authorized Dealer). Contact information for Onset Computer Corporation is
located at the beginning of this manual.
Before calling Technical Support
You can evaluate and often solve the problem yourself by taking the
following steps:
• Check the Diagnostics and troubleshooting chapter of this guide
and online technical support at www.onsetcomp.com. Common
problems and solutions are listed in those locations.
• Write down the events that led to the problem.
• If you contact Technical Support at Onset Computer Corporation or
an Onset Authorized Dealer, please indicate that you need technical
support for HOBO products. Be prepared to provide the following
information:
- A data file showing any anomalies. This is the most important
information you need to provide.
- The part number and serial number of the logger and sensors
used, and the configuration being used.
- The software version number.
- Details on the hardware and software configuration of your
computer, including the manufacturer, model number,
peripherals, and operating system version.
- A description of the environment in which the logger and
sensors are deployed.
- A complete description of the problem or question.
With this detailed information, Technical Support can provide a faster and
more accurate response.
Page 43
HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide Index-1
Index
A
AC Adapter, 5
Accessories, 64
Active LED, 52
Alarm LED, 4
Analog Sensor Port, 2, 4, 7, 13
Adding sensors, 47
Cable requirements, 13
Functional block diagram, 7
Removing sensors, 48
Specifications, 60
B
Battery, 2, 14
Charging, 42
Replacing, 43
Battery connector, 5
Battery life
Maximizing, 38
Without external power, 40
Battery voltage, 39
C
Cable access opening, 31
Cable channel, 4
Installing, 31
Cable length, 6
Channels, 6
D
Data channels, 6
Dead battery, 42
E
Errors In data file, 55
Ex. On LED, 52
Excitation, 7
Expander cable, 69
G
Grounding wire, 5
Installing, 30
H
HOBO U30 Station
Accessories, 64
Cleaning, 46
Data channels, 6
Maintaining, 45
Power, 63
Specifications, 58
Troubleshooting, 53
L
LEDs, 51
Logging LED, 4, 51
M
Maintenance, 45
Measurement averaging, 38
Memory, 62
Mounting plates, 10
P
Plugs, 32
R
Repair policy, 75
Retaining bars, 34
Returns, 74
Rubber cable channel, 31
Rubber plugs, 32
S
Sampling interval, 38
Sensor active LED, 4, 52
Sensors
Adding, 47
Connecting to Analog Sensor Port,
13
Removing, 48
Server/USB communication LED, 52
Smart Sensor expander, 68
Smart Sensor Ports, 4
Smart Sensors, 2, 4
Adding, 47
Cable length, 6
Mounting, 11
Plugging in, 11
Removing, 48
Replacing, 48
Testing, 49
Verifying accuracy, 46
Solar panel, 5, 38, 64
Specifications, 58
Support, 76
T
Technical Support, 76
Time, 61
Troubleshooting, 53
U
USB cable, 15
USB port, 15
W
Warm-up, 38
Warranty, 72
Wrap around when full, 62
Page 44
HOBO U30 Station (NRC) User’s Guide Index-3
© 2008 Onset Computer Corporation. All rights reserved.
Onset, HOBO, and HOBOware are trademarks or registered trademarks of
Onset Computer Corporation for its data logger products and
configuration/interface software.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective companies.
Onset Computer Corporation
470 MacArthur Blvd.
Bourne, MA 02532
Part #: MAN-U30-NRC
Doc #: D-11866-A
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