Operational FAQs
Do the sensors require calibration?
No, all our sensors are calibration-free
Do the sensors suffer from reference drift?
No, our ground-breaking technology negates this common issue
Are the sensors CE certified?
Yes, all our sensors are CE certified
Does the sensor have an onboard data logger?
Yes, our sensors are fitted with an integral 8GB memory card allowing in excess of 15 million data points to be collected
Do the sensors suffer from biofouling?
During the measurement, a low concentration of biocide is produced locally to the transducer. Extensive testing has shown that this is enough to keep the transducer clean, another factor that sets these sensors apart from other water quality sensors
What is the salinity range for the pH measurement?
Our sensors measure pH throughout the entire salinity range – from 0.025 ppt to 40 ppt without the need to recalibrate
What is the measurement frequency?
Our sensor’s fastest measurement rate is 17 secs
Can the frequency of measurement be user configured?
Yes, a user can fully configure the timing of operation and the measurement rate
How frequently will a measurement happen in continuous mode?
The time required depends on the salinity. The first measurement takes between 1.5 to 3.5 minutes as the sensor performs reference checks to ensure a calibration-free reading. After that, measurements are taken every 17 to 25 seconds.
Can the sensors start measuring automatically?
Yes, set on user programmable timer or when immersed in water
What is the maintenance frequency?
Our sensors have been designed so they are very low maintenance – no calibration! The only maintenance that is required is an abrasion of the surface of the transducer after around 75,000 measurements. A video on transducer abrasion can be found here
How long will the transducer last?
The transducer will require replacing after c.300,000 measurements
Do I need to send the unit back for transducer replacement?
No, our sensors have been designed for minimal maintenance and simplicity of operation, the transducer is easy to replace in the field
How do I know when the transducer needs service/replacement?
Our sensors are intelligent devices, constantly checking themselves, and will notify operators when maintenance or replacement is required with a Health Number. More information on this can be found here
Do you have a video to show how the transducer is replaced?
Yes, this can be found here
Are there any special storage conditions?
No, our sensor can be stored wet or dry, setting itself apart from today’s glass electrode technology
How do I retrieve the data from a buoy or vehicle deployment?
Data can be streamed through 232/485 comms using either Modbus or our utils terminal program
How do I retrieve the data from a battery deployment?
Data is stored internally with our sensors to an integrated SD card capable of saving >15 million measurements of pH, temperature and conductivity. All data can simply be downloaded when the sensor is retrieved or accessed via a communications medium
What depth can the sensors operate to?
All our sensors are pressure tested to 2x stated depths range, our maximum unit is currently 1250m, however, we are looking to deploy a 3000m unit in the near future
Do you have specific sensors for fresh and saltwater use?
No, all our sensors can operate in either environment.
How long does it take for installation and programming?
Our sensors are easily configurable and delivered with the transducer installed. Sensors are configured to continuous monitoring on delivery and can be custom configured and ready to go within minutes of power-up
Can the sensor be used for profiling?
Our sensors have a profiling mode which allows a faster response to pH changes, with an accuracy of +/- 0.1 pH unit
Technical FAQs
How is the sensor powered?
The sensors require external power taking anything from 6 to 42VDC
Can the sensors be battery-powered?
Yes, we have provided many units with battery packs. Please see here for further details
What is the power consumption of the sensor?
In operation, the sensor consumes 90 mA. In sleep mode, the sensor draws less than 60 mA, or can be powered off completely when not monitoring
How do I communicate with the sensor?
Communication is through RS232 or RS485 and the sensor can be operated by either Modbus protocols or a terminal program
When do I need to use a DTU (data transfer unit)?
The DTU allows the sensors to be easily configured on a PC with power supplied to the sensor through the USB port of the computer and is perfect for quickly setting up and testing the sensor for lab trials and for setting the sensor up for remote deployments where there is no communication to the sensor possible. The DTU comes as a standard for the OC ranges and can be purchased as an optional extra for the AQ range
How far can the sensor be installed from a DTU?
15m is standard for RS232 communication protocols, however, greater distances can be reached using suitable cabling
Can I use one DTU to configure multiple sensors?
Yes, you can configure multiple sensors sequentially through a single DTU. However, if you want to operate multiple sensors simultaneously, you will need multiple DTUs
What are the supported baud rates?
When your sensor arrives, it will be set at 57600, however, the user can easily change the baud rate from 115200 to any one of: 56000, 38400, 28800, 19200, 14400 and 9600
What are the details on the sensor pinout/connector?
The pin-out information can be found in the user guide
Can the sensor pinout/connector be altered for my application?
ANB provides a standard 6-pin SubConn connector as standard for the OC300 and OC1250 sensors using the pin-out information provided on its website. However, we can tailor pin-outs and connectors to your choice. Please contact us for further details
Do the sensors work with data transmission mediums such as GSM?
Yes, our units communicate via RS232 or RS485 and can be used with standard GSM and free space communication networks
Do the sensors have an analog output?
Yes, we supply a DTU-A to allow for analog output
Can one PC communicate with more than one sensor simultaneously?
Yes, multiple DTU’s can be connected to a PC via different com ports and running windows terminal
Do you have a GUI for sensor control/interaction?
Yes, this is available for free download here
Do I need a DTU to upgrade the firmware?
No, as long as you have RS232/RS485 comms, you can upgrade the firmware
Integration FAQs
Can the sensor be integrated?
The integration kit allows for easy integration into any bespoke system. Drawings and step files of the integration kit can be found here
Can I license the technology?
We are open to licensing our electronics designs and firmware for integrators to incorporate the control electronics into their systems. Please contact us for more information
Can the sensor be integrated into vehicles?
Yes, due to the small form factor and rugged designs our sensors are ideal for mounting to any AUV/ROV device, we also have our iKit available for bespoke integration requirements
Can the sensors be fitted to buoys and flotation devices?
Yes, due to the small form factor and low power consumption, our sensors are ideal for mounting to any buoy or flotation device
Do you have examples of successful integrations?
Yes, please look here for examples
Can I get some support for my integration?
We will be happy to help! Please contact us for support.