This document was prepared by the staff of Valeport Limited, the Company, and is the property of the
Company, which also owns the copyright therein. All rights conferred by the law of the copyright and by
virtue of international copyright conventions are reserved to the Company. This document must not be
copied, reprinted or reproduced in any material form, either wholly or in part, and the contents of this
document, and any method or technique available therefrom, must not be disclosed to any other person
whatsoever without the prior written consent of the Company.
Valeport Limited
St Peters Quay
Totnes
Devon, TQ9 5EW
United Kingdom
As part of our policy of continuous development, we reserve the right to alter, without prior notice, all
specifications, designs, prices and conditions of supply for all our equipment.
..................................................................................................................................... 41. EU Declaration of Conformity - CE Marking
..................................................................................................................................... 62. Important Information
..................................................................................................................................... 73. SWiFT SVP - Sound Velocity Profiler
..................................................................................................................................... 84. SWiFTplus - SVP profiler with Optical Sensor
.................................................................................................................................... 167.1. Interfacing to a PC
.................................................................................................................................... 248.2. Battery Life Expectancy
.................................................................................................................................... 248.3. Shipping Your SWiFT with Lithium Ion Batteries
.................................................................................................................................... 329.4. Do Not Deploy Flag
.................................................................................................................................... 329.5. Low Power Mode
.................................................................................................................................... 359.6. Status Message
.................................................................................................................................... 369.7. Data File
.................................................................................................................................... 379.8. Data File Translation
.................................................................................................................................... 379.9. Real Time Data Format
.................................................................................................................................... 389.10. Care and Maintenance
..................................................................................................................................... 3910. Upgrading Your SWiFT
.................................................................................................................................... 3910.1. Valeport SWiFT - Firmware Upgrade
.................................................................................................................................... 4010.2. Step 1 - Download the Required Files
.................................................................................................................................... 4110.3. Step 2 - Update the Firmware
.................................................................................................................................... 4510.4. Bluetooth Adapter - Re-Program and Pair
..................................................................................................................................... 4811. Ordering and Part Numbers
Please note: Any changes or modifications to the product or accessories supplied, that are not authorised by
Valeport Ltd, could void the CE compliance of the product and negate your authority to operate it. This product
has demonstrated CE compliance under conditions that include the use of shielded cables. It is important that you
use shielded cables compliant with the product’s conformance, to protect from potential damage and reduce the
possibility of interference to other electronic devices.
1. Self contained, sound velocity, temperature and
pressure profiling system
1.1. From measured observations conductivity,
salinity and density can be calculated
2. Lithium Ion rechargeable battery
3. Depth rated to 200m
4. LED symbols to identify:
4.1. Instrument status
4.2. Battery Status
4.3. GPS Status
4.4. Bluetooth Status
5. Bluetooth connectivity to PC & iOS App.
6. Automatic reacquisition of Bluetooth connection
and file down load on recovery
7. GPS Geo-Location and time
8. Deployment weight that will not interfere with
sensor performance
Applications
A shallow water, self contained Sound Speed profiler
possible applications include:
1. Coastal, harbour and inland hydrographic survey
2. Sound velocity profiling
2.1. Single Beam echo-sounder
2.2. Multi-Beam echo-sounder
2.3. USBL
2.4. Imaging sonar
3. Lakes, reservoir and river studies
3. SWiFT SVP - Sound Velocity Profiler
Designed from the outset with the intention of a seamless workflow, the SWiFT profiler provides survey-grade
sensor technology coupled with the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity and rechargeable batteries. An integral
GPS module, to geo-locate each profile, completes the package. Data can be easily and quickly downloaded and
reviewed wirelessly, via Bluetooth, using the either Valeport's Connect PC software or the SWiFT App for iOS
portable devices and instantly shared, in industry standard SVP formats through email and cloud services. Using
the provided USB adapter or cable, Valeport’s Connect software package provides further tools.
In addition to the directly measured sound speed, temperature and pressure observations, Conductivity, Salinity
and Density are calculated using Valeport’s proprietary algorithm developed from extensive laboratory and field
work.
With an operational battery life of up to 5 days and the convenience of charging via USB, SWiFT is intended for
coastal, harbour and inland hydrographic survey use and offers the highest quality sound velocity profiles in a
compact, robust and portable package.
Utilising Valeport's latest design for the world's most accurate sound velocity sensor, each measurement is made
using a single pulse of sound travelling over a precisely known distance, so is independent of the inherent
calculation errors present in CTD calculated data. Valeport's unique digital signal processing technique virtually
eliminates signal noise, and gives almost instantaneous response; the digital measurement is also entirely linear,
giving predictable performance under all conditions.
5.2. Temperature
The SWiFT is fitted with an accurate Platinum Resistance Thermometer (PRT) temperature sensor.
5.3. Pressure Sensor
The SWiFT is supplied with either a 100m or 200m rated piezo-resistive pressure transducer
0-800 µg/l
2 gain settings: 0-40 and 0-800 (software controlled)
Instrument
Detection limit:
0.025 µg/l*
Actual
Detection limit:
0.025 µg /l**
Linearity:
0.99 R
2
Response Time:
0.03 to 2 sec
5.4. Optical Sensors
An optical sensor must be kept clean to operate correctly. Ensure that the SWiFT is powered down before
cleaning the sensor.
Use warm soapy water with a soft bristled brush to remove any light fouling.
For heavy fouling use a solvent (e.g Isopropyl alcohol) and a soft bristled brush.
Always rinse thoroughly after every use in clean, fresh water.
5.4.1. Fluorometers
5.4.1.1. Safety Statement
A Valeport Fluorometer is classified as Risk Group 1 under standard 62471. As the type is classified as Risk Group 1
solely due to radiation in the visible band a hazard label is not required. However,
· the LED used is in excess of the Exempt Group and that the viewer- related risk is dependent upon how the user
installs and operates the equipment.
· the exposure hazard value (EHV) for a Valeport Fluorometer in terms of distance is 320mm.
5.4.1.2. Chlorophyll a
* 3x SD in RO water
** calibrated against Chlorophyll a in acetone solution
The linear range is the concentration range for which the fluorometer signal is directly proportional to the
concentration of the fluorophore. The linear range starts at the minimum detection limit (MDL) and extends to the
upper limit of the instrument (dependent on fluorophore properties, optical filters, LED power, sample volume and
optical path length).
Valeport Fluorometers have a calibrated linear response for 2 gain settings (e.g. the ranges 0-40 µg/l (G5) and 0800 µg/l (G1) for chlorophyll a). At higher concentrations, unlike analogue devices which generally flat-line at fullscale deflection (e.g. FSD 5V) the fluorometer will continue to output a signal which increases with concentration
(i.e. meaningful data), though which is no longer guaranteed to be linear.
At very high fluorophore concentrations, signal quenching can occur, whereby the instrument output does not
increase linearly with fluorophore concentration (roll-off) and may decrease at even higher levels.
To perform a quick linearity check, dilute the sample 1:1 with RO water. If the reading decreases by 50%, the
sample is in the linear range. If the reading decreases by less than 50% or even increases, the sample is above the
linear range.
Nephelometer0 to >1 000 NTU - linear response
Optical Backscatter:0 to 4 000 NTU - linear response
(>4,000 NTU has a non-linear monotonic response that allows derivation of higher
values using look-up tables)
Minimum Detection
Level
0.03 NTU
Never look directly into the optical aperture
5.4.1.5.1 Quenching
Quenching refers to the reduction in fluorescence of a fluorophore. Several processes can result in quenching:
1. Chloride is known to quench quinine sulphate and Fluorescein. It is, therefore, advisable to prepare any
fluorophore solutions with RO* or DI** water.
2. Temperature quenching - as the temperature of the sample increases, the fluorescence decreases, that is,
fluorescence is sensitive to temperature. In order to improve accuracy, measure the sample at different
temperatures and derive corrections for changes in temperature.
3. Photo-bleaching (or fading) is the (permanent) degradation of a fluorophore molecule by light resulting in
lower signal levels. Photo-bleaching is dependent on exposure (intensity of light and duration) and wavelength
(UV is more damaging than longer wavelengths). Use of more robust fluorophores is recommended to avoid
photo-bleaching.
* Reverse Osmosis
** De-Ionised
5.4.2. Turbidity
Valeport's Turbidity technology is essentially two sensors in one. The first is a “classic” nephelometer, using a 90°
beam angle for turbidity levels between 0 and 2000 NTU. The second sensor uses optical backscatter - OBS
(~120° beam angle) for turbidity levels beyond 10 000 NTU. Both sensors output data simultaneously, at a
programmable rate, so there is no need to switch ranges as conditions vary. Intelligent sampling and the use of a
24 bit ADC eliminates the need to switch gain. The optical head is very compact, measuring just 20mm diameter
and is rated to full ocean depth.
5.4.2.1. Safety Statement
The Turbidity sensor is classified EXEMPT under the standard 62471.
As a Valeport Turbidity sensor is classified as EXEMPT a hazard label in not required.
From directly measured sound velocity, temperature and pressure, SWiFT calculates Conductivity using a
proprietary Valeport algorithm developed from extensive laboratory and fieldwork.
5.5.2. Calculated Salinity
From directly measured sound velocity, temperature and pressure, SWiFT calculates Salinity using a proprietary
Valeport algorithm developed from extensive laboratory and fieldwork.
5.5.3. Calculated Density
From directly measured sound velocity, temperature and pressure, Density is calculated using a proprietary
Valeport algorithm developed from extensive laboratory and field work.
8 data bits, 1 stop bit, No parity, No flow control
This installation may require administration rights for the installation of the serial port drivers, if the drivers do
not automatically install they can be manually installed by running the CDM v2.12.00 WHQL Certified utility.
7. Communications
The SWiFT is designed to communicate primarily through a Bluetooth interface but has cabled RS232 comms
capability as a fall back.
The Bluetooth module communicates with an iOS App and can be used with Valeport's Connect software in the
same way. If Bluetooth is not available the RS232 comms cable can be used directly with Connect.
7.1. Interfacing to a PC
There are two methods of connecting a SWiFT to a PC:
1. A wired connection using the supplied USB cable
2. Bluetooth with the supplied USB key.
7.1.1. USB Communications
The SWiFT contains a USB-Serial FDTI chip. When the SWiFT is first plugged into the USB port of a PC it will
install the relevant FTDI drivers.
Please note that when the USB cable is plugged into the SWiFT the GPS module is switch off.
The SWiFT will be assigned a COM port (e.g. COM 10) and on every subsequent connection it will retain this port.
To find out the COM port of a connected SWiFT, access the devices and printers selection from Windows Control
Panel.
In the Unspecified section you will find “SWiFT SVP xxxxx” where xxxxx is the serial number.
Right click and select Properties, next select the Hardware tab and you will see the assigned COM port.
The SWiFT will not communicate with native Windows 10 Bluetooth or any other type of Bluetooth key
7.1.2. Bluetooth Communications
SWiFT is fitted with a Bluetooth 4.0 LE chip. This allows short range wireless comms with a Windows 10 PC or hand
held device running the Valeport Connect App. Using the App will allow the instrument to be configured and
recorded data downloaded.
The reliable range of the Bluetooth comms is 5 to 10m.
The SWiFT is supplied with a Valeport Bluetooth Key. Prior to delivery each key is pre-paired and bound to the
SWiFT that it is supplied with. The pairing can be updated using the vp_Bluetooth application provided and
available to down load from the Valeport Downloads site (http://valeport.download/).
If the supplied Key is lost or damaged, it can only be replaced with another Valeport key.
The Valeport Bluetooth Key will install as a USB serial port and will be assigned a COM port (e.g. comm 9) and on
every subsequent connection it will retain this COM port designation. This installation may require administration
rights for the installation of the serial port drivers, if the drivers do not automatically install they can be manually
installed by running the CDM v2.12.00 WHQL Certified utility contained in the Connect installation folder on the
supplied USB flash drive.
To find out the COM port of the Valeport Bluetooth Key, access the devices and printers selection from Windows
Control Panel.
In the Unspecified section you will find “Serial Port Adapter".
Right click and select Properties, next select the Hardware tab and you will see the assigned COM port.
The Valeport Bluetooth Key is configured to automatically establish a connection to its paired SWiFT whenever it
comes into range. The Key scans every 10 seconds so may take up to 10 seconds to connect after the SWiFT is
switched on or comes into range. The LED on the Valeport Bluetooth Key gives an indication of operational
status.
When the connection is established, the Bluetooth symbol on the SWiFT end cap will turn from green to blue. The
Connect Utility will then be able to communicate and configure the SWiFT SVP over Bluetooth using the
configured COM port. The SWiFT can only maintain one Bluetooth connection at a time so can either talk to the
mobile app OR the Valeport USB key.
Essential Requirements
Radio Equipment Directive
2014/53/EU
Standards
Safety & Health
(Article 3.1a)
IEC 60950-1:2005 + A1:2009
EN 60950-1:2006 + A11:2009 + A1:2010 + A12:2011 + AC:2011 + A2:2013
EN 62479:2010
EMC (Article 3.1b)
EN 301 489-1 V2.1.1
EN 301 489-17 V3.1.1
IEC 60601-1-2:2007 (Medical Electrical Equipment
Radio Spectrum Efficiency
(Article 3.2)
EN 300 328 V2.1.1
Essential Requirements RoHS
Directive 2011/65/EU
Standards
Prevention
(Article 4.1)
EN 50581:2012
7.1.2.1. Regulatory and Safety Information
EU Declaration of Conformity
SWiFT SVP and SWiFTplus Profilers have u-blox type AG OBS421 stand-alone dual-mode Bluetooth® module
fitted as standard. There is the same type of Bluetooth module fitted in the USB communications device supplied
with the SWiFT.
It complies with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Radio Equipment Directive (RED)
2014/53/EU and Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive 2011/65/E
FCC Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Radio Frequency Exposure
The OEM Serial Port Adapter contains a small radio transmitter and receiver. During communication with other
Bluetooth products the OEM Serial Port Adapter receives and transmits radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields
(microwaves) in the frequency range 2400 to 2500 MHz. The output power of the radio transmitter is very low.
When using the OEM Serial Port Adapter, you will be exposed to some of the transmitted RF energy. This exposure
is well below the prescribed limits in all national and international RF safety standards and regulations.
Turn off your electronic device before entering an area with potentially explosive atmosphere. It is rare, but your
electronic device could generate sparks. Sparks in such areas could cause an explosion or fire resulting in bodily
injury or even death.
Areas with a potentially explosive atmosphere are often, but not always, clearly marked. They include fueling
areas, such as petrol station, below deck on boats, fuel or chemical transfer or storage facilities, and areas where
the air contains chemicals or particles, such as grain, dust, or metal powders.
7.2. Configuration
A SWiFT should be configured and operated through the Connect PC Utility, or your iOS hand held device Connect
App.
Up to 5 operational days from a fully charged pack
Solid Green
More than 24 hours
Solid Amber
less than 24 hours but more than 12 hours
Solid Red
Less than 12 operational hours
Mode
Bluetooth
GPS
Current mA
Running on the surface
ONON110
Running on the surface
Connected
ON
116
Interrupted
Connected
ON
112
Running sub surface
OFF
OFF
55
Sleep
OFF
OFF
0.5
8. Rechargeable Battery
The SWiFT is fitted with a rechargeable battery with the following characteristics:
As the battery becomes discharged the SWiFT status LEDs will change during operation:
The actual number of operational hours can vary from one project scenario to another and if a SWiFTplus is being
used. Environmental factors have to be taken into account as well as the age of the battery, the time the SWiFT is
switched on as well as the time in the water all have to be taken into consideration.
Below is a table of the current drawn by the SWiFT in various modes:
Note that there is still current drawn when the SWiFT is switched off or in Sleep Mode and that the current drawn
is considerably less when sub surface recording sound velocity, pressure and temperature data but the GPS and
Bluetooth are off. The GPS and Bluetooth are disabled as the pressure reading passes a trigger value, by default
this is 0.5m but can be set by the operator.
The battery pack is supplied with a dedicated USB charging and data download interface cable, this must be used.
In order to gain access to the charging socket the lock nut and suspension spar must be removed - see illustration
on the inside of the transit case lid. Pay special attention to the O ring seals during dis-assembly and most
importantly reassembly to insure a fully water tight seal. When replacing the suspension spar and lock nut do not
over tighten either thread. Finger tight is tight enough.
The suspension spar contains a vent hole in case of pressure build up in the housing. This venting hole must be
kept clean and clear. If the SWiFT is used in a manner not specified by Valeport the protection provided by the
equipment might be impaired.
The supplied USB charger is capable of charging the battery with a 1.5 A
current.
The battery pack has intelligent charging and discharge circuitry. There is
no 'memory' to the pack so partial charging sessions will not reduce the
capacity or life of the pack. The capacity of the pack will, however,
reduce with age.
It is advised that the SWiFT battery is never allowed to become fully
discharged. In a fully discharged state the battery is open circuit. In order
to reduce the chances of battery becoming fully discharged the SWiFT will
disable all sensors with 1 hour's operational charge left. From disabling
the sensors you have approximately 100 hours to start a charging session
to prevent the battery becoming open circuit.
If the battery is completely discharged and, therefore, open circuit it will
take 50 minutes, using the supplied 1.5A charger, to start taking on a
charge. Please note, during this 50 minute period of charging no LEDs will be lit.
If charged for 1 hour from a near flat but not an open circuit state, using the supplied 1.5A charger, the battery will
take on a charge that will allow the SWiFT to operate for approximately 12 hours.
It will take approximately 12 hours, using the supplied 1.5A charger, to fully charge the battery from a near flat but
not open circuit state.
When the charging session is complete, disconnect the charging cable from the SWiFT before disconnecting power
from the charger.
Charging at > 12 hours capacity < 24 hours capacity
Flashing Green
Charging > 24 hours capacity
Solid Green
Fully charged or running with charger off
8.1.1. Charging Status
During charging the status of the process can be monitored:
8.1.2. Charging from a Laptop USB Port
A typical Laptop USB port is rated to supply up to 0.5A for charging, although many newer laptops have dedicated
USB sockets (usually marked yellow) that often are capable of higher output currents. The SWiFT’s electronics is
able to detect the higher current available resulting in faster charging cycles. The SWiFT also maintains the
maximum charge voltage at a reduced level, resulting in longer battery life.
Any charging operation from a standard USB port will take approximately three (3) times longer than if the
supplied 1.5A rated charger is used as described above.
8.2. Battery Life Expectancy
The batteries installed in the SWiFT will loose capacity over time. Lithium-ion batteries use the movement of ion
particles to create and store an electrical charge. Eventually these ion particles are trapped and can no longer
move around. The batteries then lose their capacity to store energy.
Under normal operational conditions the SWiFT battery pack should offer a practical, usable capacity for a period
in excess of 4 years.
8.3. Shipping Your SWiFT with Lithium Ion Batteries
The Lithium Ion battery within this product, when packed and shipped in its transit box, conforms to UN3481, PI967
section II and its additional requirements.
No battery handling labels are required.
For further information, please contact Valeport and ask for one of the Dangerous Goods in shipment advisers or
visit the IATA website page:
The depth increment at which profile data points are recorded (default = 0.1m)
Trigger Step:
Trigger point at depth (default = 1.0m)
9. Operation
SWiFT is switched on and off by a quarter turn of the ring surrounding the deployment spar end cap. The turn can
be in either direction
The SWiFT is supplied with an optional sinker weight fitted. If not required or to reduce shipping weight this weight
can be removed - a Hex key is provided.
The SWiFT has two user operational modes. Smart Profile and Continuous. The default mode for profiling
operations is Smart Profile.
A Smart Profile has three controlling parameters and can operate as the Up Cast or Down Cast:
For example: SWiFT with the default settings, Down Cast profile mode and lowered to 100m and then retrieved.
Get a GPS fix and Tare pressure setting to apply to the data. The SWiFT will continually update its GPS fix until
deployed into the water. GPS and all LEDs are disabled at 2m depth to conserve power. If no fix is found before
the SWiFT is deployed the profile data will still be recorded but with a position of 999,999
·Last GPS fix and Tare observation recorded.
·Will start recording values at 0.5m depth,
·Record values every 10cm on the downcast to a depth of 100m
·Stop recording on the Up Cast at 99m (trigger step set to 1 m).
·Close file
·To obtain a GPS fix, the SWiFT needs to be above the water surface. A hot fix is usually obtained in less
than 30 seconds.
The SWiFT can also operate in a continuous mode where data is recorded at a user defined rate (1,2,4,16, or 32
Hz). All data is recorded from when the SWiFT is placed into run mode (either by turning the SWiFT on, or sending
a run command). A SWiFTplus will record data at 1Hz intervals.
Note:The GPS will not be powered when the comms cable is plugged in.
Green
More than 24 and up to 60 operational hours
Amber
less than 24 but more than 12 operational hours
Red
Less than 12 operational hours
Green
Not Connected
Flashing Blue
Connected and Transmitting (status message will cause blue light to flash every 10s)
Solid Blue
Connected
Flashing
Low Power Mode enabled
Operational Status:
The operational status LED will be solid green when the unit is switched on and not interrupted, that is, is not in a
command mode.
When the unit is on but interrupted the Operational status LED will flash green.
If in an 'interrupted' state and no commands are received after 5 minutes the instrument will automatically leave
the configuration status and start operating again.
Power Saving Mode:
A mode has been implemented to save power if the SWiFT is inadvertently left switched on. When operating in
Smart Profile mode, if no activity is detected after a defined period, the SWiFT will move into a low power sleep
mode. As a default this is set to 120 mins. This value can be changed with a configuration code or disabled.
If the SWiFT has gone into power save mode, the switch ring will need to be rotated two quarter turns to wake the
SWiFT up.
When operating in Continuous Mode, if the SWiFT is left on, it will continue to operate until the battery is empty
and then switch off.
GPS Status
When the unit is switched on the GPS will immediately search for time and position data - the LED will flash green
unit a fix is acquired. Once a valid fix has been obtained the LED will switch to solid green.
If a fix is not acquired, the unit can be deployed but no position information will be recorded in the data file.
Battery Status
As the battery becomes discharged the status LED will change from:
If there is a fault with the battery then the LED will flash once a second in different colours.
Use Valeport Connect Software to configure the SWiFT and control the data download process.
See the separate Connect Software Operating Manual (Document No. 8500800).
Smart Profile Mode
Smart Profiling allows the operator to specify a change in depth to trigger an observation set to be recorded.
The profile can be recorded either as a Down Cast or an Up Cast with start and stop triggers specified as required
using the Settings dialogue.
The Down Cast
The Trigger Depth is the depth, close to the surface, at which the Profile will start and open a new logging file.
The Trigger Step is the change in depth upwards , that will cause the Profile to stop and close the logging file.
This should be set to a magnitude greater than the local swell.
The Up Cast
The TriggerStep is the change in depth upwards, that will cause the Profile to start and open a new logging file.
This should be set to a magnitude greater than the local sea and swell.
The Trigger Depth is the depth, close to the surface, at which the Profile will stop and close the logging file.
An observation for each sensor - Sound Speed, Temperature, Pressure and Optical in the case of a SWiFTplus, will
be recorded at each Depth Increment as defined in the settings dialogue.
Once the unit is switched on and ready for deployment the following criteria must be met before logging will start:
· the Start Trigger event has been met depending on the direction of the cast - up or down.
Logging will be stopped when the End Trigger event has been met.
In Continuous mode a set of observations will be recorded at a rate of 1Hz. Data will be recorded from the
moment the Instrument is set to work and will continue until the Instrument is interrupted.
SWiFT SVP will record an observation for each sensor every second. That observation will be an average of 32
readings (32Hz observation period).
The SWiFTplus will record an observation for the Optical sensor, Temperature, Pressure and Sound Speed every
second.
Once the unit is switched on and ready for deployment the following criteria must be met before logging will start:
· A Valid position has been obtained if the 'Require GPS fix before logging' option is ticked
or
· If the 'Require GPS fix before logging' option is not ticked as soon as the SWiFT is turned on and set to work.
Observations will be recorded at 1 Hz in continuous mode.
In a SWiFT SVP this 1Hz recorded value is the average of a 32Hz observation period for each sensor.
The SWiFTplus is a single reading taken at 1 Hz and could, therefore, appear to be more noisy than a SWiFT SVP.
Logging is stopped by turning the instrument off or Interrupting it with a # character.
In air test with an appropriate 'target' in-front of the optical sensor
· The magnitude of the data received increases when the supplied fluorescent target is held at 45° to the sensor
window:
· By altering the angle of the target and the distance from the sensor, the magnitude of the reading should
change thereby showing the correct operation of the sensor.
- If the test target is missing then a piece of good quality white paper can be used.
Note:
In Valeport Connect software versions 1.0.5.9 and earlier there is a labelling error when showing real-time data for
non Turbidity sensors. No matter which sensor is present the optical data will labelled as Turbidity 1, the units will
be correct:
The data above shows an in air test of a Chlorophyll a sensor with no target in front of the optical window. The
data is labelled as Turbidity 1, but the correct units for Chlorophyll are displayed.
Low Power mode is only available in a SWiFT delivered after May 2018. A modification was
included in the switch end cap from this build standard onwards.
If your SWiFT is enabled to operate in this mode the Bluetooth LED will flash at 1 Hz
If you would like to investigate the use of this mode for your operation please contact
Valeport directly
9.3. Tare
The pressure Tare of the instrument is automatically updated and applied when a GPS fix is obtained.
The Tare value is stored in the file header with a time and date stamp of when it was observed.
It is applied to the recorded pressure data.
9.4. Do Not Deploy Flag
In Smart Profile Mode a message is broadcast every 10 seconds. Within the message is a flag to indicate if the
SWiFT is ready to be deployed, i.e. is a file created and is valid data going to be recorded.
There are 4 instances when the flag will be set to 0 (zero) and, therefore, the SWiFT will not be in a correct state
to be deployed, it will not record data. Connect will attempt to recover the the situation using a specific reset
command.
1. The GPS is off e.g. USB cable plugged in.
2. The GPS Clock is set to Year 80.
2.1. Reset the GPS, make sure you have a recent and valid GPS fix. A clear view of the sky will be required.
3. Date from GPS is NOT greater than 1/1/2018.
3.1. Reset the GPS, make sure you have a recent and valid GPS fix. A clear view of the sky will be required.
4. Pressure reading is greater then the Trigger Point. If there is a small Tare value taken from a normal
atmospheric value or Tare mode is turned off.
4.1. Turn the SWiFT off and back on again, ensure you have a valid GPS fix. This will cause a new file to be
created and a Tare value recorded.
When the the Flag is set to 0 a warning message is shown in Connect.
The most usual reason for this error status is an incorrect GPS update. Try moving the SWiFT unit to an area of
open sky and ensure a valid GPS fix has been received. Switch off and back on again and monitor the flag.
9.5. Low Power Mode
Primarily designed for use on long duration autonomous vehicles, a low power sleep mode has been developed for
SWiFT to provide for maximum endurance.
Issuing a serial command to the SWiFT, powers down the main processes leaving only the Bluetooth connection
running.
The status, GPS and battery light on the SWiFT will turn off, the Bluetooth symbol will briefly turn light blue and
then dark blue. In this mode the SWiFT will draw ~7mA.
The second stage of low power sleep mode requires the Bluetooth connection at the PC end to be terminated.
Disconnecting the Bluetooth Adapter from the PC breaks the Bluetooth link and the SWiFT moves into a lower
power sleep mode. The Bluetooth status light on the SWiFT will change from solid blue to flashing green once per
second. In this mode the SWiFT will draw ~1.5mA.
To reestablish a Bluetooth connection, reconnect the Bluetooth Adapter to your PC. Within 30s the status light on
both the SWiFT and the USB Adapter should go blue.
To wake the SWiFT, send any character via the COM port. We recommend not to use the # symbol as the will
interrupt the instrument.
If the SWiFT has been successfully woken up, within 10 seconds a status message will be transmitted from the
SWiFT and then every 10 seconds it will be updated.
See section on the Status Message for details of this message.
To Control Low Power Sleep Mode
To place SWiFT into low power sleep mode:
#162Place unit into low power sleep. Will return an error if Low Power Sleep mode is disabled.
To wake SWiFT from low power sleep mode:
Send any character. Do not use # as this will interrupt the instrument.
Date/Time Stamp of last recorded file [YYMMDDhhmmss]
0 or 1
Char
Ready for deployment (New file flag and in run mode)
*40
Check Sum
9.6. Status Message
The SWiFT continuously broadcasts a status message over Bluetooth. It is only broadcast over Bluetooth.
It allows for the status of the SWiFT to be determined without interrupting its operation.
The message is broadcast every 10 seconds and is in the form of a proprietary NMEA type message. It contains the
following information:
$PVBB,00102532,56150,50.4264,-3.6814,66.00,160817154647,0,*42
$PVBB,00102532,56150,50.4264,-3.6814,65.99,160817154647,0,*41
$PVBB,00102532,56150,50.4264,-3.6814,65.99,160817154647,0,*41
$PVBB,00102532,56150,50.4264,-3.6814,65.98,160817154647,0,*40
If a file has already been extracted and converted from the binary format using the iOS app or Connect, it will be
stored in a VPD format. This is a common format that is used across all Valeport products.
From Connect version 1.0.4.0 a slightly altered format: .VP2 was introduced to replace VPD and allow for future
expansion. The structure is largely the same.
This format is generated from Connect and the iOS App after download and during recording. The raw
downloaded and recorded files are also maintained as a backup.
Basic Structure:
The basic structure is that of an INI file:
The file is split into sections (denoted by a the name of the section in square [ ] brackets).
Within each section, the values are presented as Key Value pairs, delimited by an 'equals' sign. INI files are fairly
old technology, but have been chosen for a number of reasons:
a)They are readily readable as text files.
b)They can be randomly accessed for both read and write - many programming languages have readily
available INI File Access Classes.
c)They are not case sensitive.
d)Their structure can be split into sections, and the sections can be hierarchical by using a back-slash '\'
e)Comments can be added (prefixing the line with a semicolon ';'
f)They can be readily dropped into Excel etc for onward processing.
More information on Windows INI Files can be found here:
Once downloaded from the SWiFT SVP profiles can be converted in the Connect App to the following Industry
Standard formats.
The following profile formats are available in the iOS App:
If the format you require is not available then contact support@valeport.co.uk
9.9. Real Time Data Format
When operating in continuous mode and connected by Bluetooth the SWiFT will output the following data format:
SWiFT is a robust profiling sensor and will provide many years of reliable service.
The unit should be thoroughly cleaned and rinsed with fresh water before being returned to its transit case, where
it should be kept at all times when not in use.
Care should be taken when removing and replacing the deployment spar to gain access to the charging and data
port. The O rings included in the locking mechanism are an integral part of the system to keep the SWiFT
watertight and should be kept in good condition and checked for correct seating before reassembly.
When the deployment spar is removed every care should be taken to avoid any water getting into the connector
bay. If water does inadvertently make its way into this space it should be very carefully dried out. The deployment
spar should not be put back in place until the connector bay is completely dry as water could be forced further into
the instrument and cause damage to the connector or even the electronics inside the housing.
Charging should not be carried out where any water is present.
9.11. Software
SWiFT is supplied with two forms of software package - PC based Valeport Connect and an iOS hand held device
App.
Valeport Connect is a PC program to set up, down load and display data. It is licence free.
Do Not Attempt to Carry Out this Upgrade over Bluetooth
Once upgraded to 0650735, the SWiFT SVP and SWiFTplus will NOT be compatible with:
· Valeport DataLog x2 - replaced with Valeport Connect for PC
· Valeport SWiFT iOS App - replaced with Valeport Connect App for iOS
- and potentially other third party software integrations.
Please contact Valeport for further details
10. Upgrading Your SWiFT
10.1. Valeport SWiFT - Firmware Upgrade
This procedure describes the upgrade process for the firmware of a SWiFT.
This upgrade is required to operate with the new Valeport Connect PC and Connect iOS applications.
It is compatible with all SWiFT SVP and SWiFTplus profilers.
Requirements
§ Windows PC
§ Valeport's Bootloader Utility (ver.1.0.10.3 or higher)
Once you are satisfied everything is correct, click
Program now
A summary of which device will be programmed with which firmware will be displayed.
Check carefully you are programming the correct device with the correct firmware:
You should see an 'update successful' message when the process is complete:
After updating your firmware and your instrument has an integral GPS receiver - SWiFT SVP, SWiFTplus, rapidPro
SVT or rapidPro CTD (F) it is very important that you insure a valid GPS fix is received by the unit before it is
deployed. The system must have valid clock and date settings in order to open logging files correctly
If the firmware update fails, contact Valeport for support:
e mail: support@valeport.co.uk
Tel: +44(0)1803 869292 (UK office hours only)
· Select Re-program if your Bluetooth module is not in the mode required - Classic or LE.
· Select Just Pair if your Bluetooth module is in the correct mode and you simply need to pair with your
instrument.
The status LED on the USB Bluetooth module will change colour a number of times while it is being configured
Once configured, the USB Bluetooth key will scan for devices in range.
Your Instrument should appear in the list, if it doesn't, ensure it is powered up, in range and not connected to
another adapter or Bluetooth device and try again:
Click on
Select your Instrument from the list and
The LED on the adapter should go blue to indicate a successful pairing operation. If your Instrument has a visible
Bluetooth LED it should also have turned blue.
SWIFT SVP Profiler - Titanium housing rated to 200m
Fitted with
· 35mm Carbon composite time of flight SV sensor
· Pressure sensor - 0.05% FS
· PRT Temperature Sensor
· Bluetooth connectivity
· GPS module
· Rechargeable battery pack
· LED status indication
Supplied with:
– Deployment weight
– USB Interface and Charging cable
– PC USB Bluetooth adapter
– Multi-zone Charger
– DataLog x2 software / iOS App available from the Apple Store
– Operating manual and system transit case
Note:XX denotes pressure transducer range select from: 10 or 20 bar
0660047-XX-F: YY
SWIFTplus Profiler - Titanium housing rated to 200m
Fitted with
· Optical Sensor
· 35mm Carbon composite time of flight SV sensor
· Pressure sensor - 0.05% FS
· PRT Temperature Sensor
· Bluetooth connectivity
· GPS module
· Rechargeable battery pack
· LED status indication
Supplied with:
– Deployment weight
– USB Interface and Charging cable
– PC USB Bluetooth adapter
– Multi-zone Charger
– DataLog x2 software / iOS App available from the Apple Store
– Operating manual and system transit case
Note:XX denotes pressure transducer range select from: 10 or 20 bar