AML Oceanographic AML-3 User manual

AML-3 and AML-6 LGR: User Manual
Multiparameter Logger Instrument
For more information visit AMLoceanographic.com or call [phone]

Revision History
Revision
Date
Description
1.0
Aug 31, 2022
Document Created
1.09
Mar 31, 2023
Addition of monitoring display/format settings
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1 Introduction 5
1.1 Instrument Overview 5
1.2 Communicating with the Instrument 9
1.3 Charging the Instrument 10
1.4 Auxiliary Sensors 11
1.5 GPS Functionality (500m Only) 11
1.6 Indicator LED Flash Patterns 12
1.7 Pressure Ratings 12
2 Getting Started 14
2.1 Getting started with Sailfish via USB-C or WiFi Connection 14
2.2 Conducting a Profile 16
2.3 Connecting a GPS Listener 18
3 Configuration using Sailfish 21
3.1 Sampling Mode 21
3.2 Log parameters 22
3.3 Instrument Time and Location 22
3.4 Power Management 22
3.5 Manage Files 23
3.6 Firmware Updates 23
3.7 Command Prompt 23
3.8 GPS Offline Assist 24
4 Contact AML 25
Service 25
Sales 25
5 Appendix A - Full command list 26
5.1 Sampling commands 26
5.2 Monitor Configurations and commands 27
5.3 Log File Format/Monitor Output 28
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5.4 UV Antifouling 29
5.5 Data Logging 30
5.6 Help 30
5.7 Communication commands 31
5.8 Sensor commands 31
5.9 System commands 31
5.10 GPS commands 32
5.11 Power commands 32
6 Appendix B - Output Formats 34
6.1 Column-Based Format 34
6.2 AMLx Format 34
7 Appendix C - Calculated Parameters 37
8 Appendix D - Equipping an Instrument 38
8.1 Sensor Cage 38
8.2 X2Change™ Sensors 39
8.2.1 Removing Sensors 40
8.2.2 Installing Sensors 40
8.3 Seals and Plugs 41
9 Appendix E - Long Term Storage Recommendations 42
10 Appendix F - USB FAQ 43
11 Appendix G - Regulatory Information 44
12 Appendix H - Warranty Statement 44
AML Warranty Policy: New Product (Instrumentation) 44
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1 Introduction
The AML LGR series is a highly configurable family of multiparameter sondes designed for a
wide range of data collection applications. This series includes both the AML-3 LGR and the
AML-6 LGR, where the ‘3’ and ‘6’ designations refer to the number of sensors that may be
simultaneously installed on the instrument’s endcap. Additional sensors may be connected
externally, allowing up to 4 and 8 sensors respectively in total.
There are three primary configurations of instruments in the AML-3 and AML-6 family: the AML
LGR, a self-powered instrument designed for profiling applications, the AML RTS, an externally
powered instrument intended for Real Time Streaming applications, and the AML XC (Xtra
Connector), a hybrid instrument with both Logging and Real Time capabilities. While nearly
identical in size and form factor, the three configurations differ in a few key features which
specialize them for their respective applications.
Instruments with the LGR designation are self-powered via a rechargeable internal battery and
have a mechanical on/off switch adjacent to their shackle. These instruments are designed to
internally log sensor measurements and transfer data post-deployment. These instruments are
most commonly used for multiparameter profiling such as CTD, SVP, etc.
Real Time Streaming instruments, in contrast, are designed to stream data, with no ability to
internally record the data. Both power and communication to these instruments is facilitated via
a waterproof connector located adjacent to the shackle. These instruments rely on external
power for operation and the application of this power turns the instrument on in lieu of a
mechanical switch. These instruments are commonly used in moored applications, buoys,
underwater observatories, and ROVs.
Instruments with the XC designation combine the strengths from both the LGR and RTS
versions. Providing even more flexibility, it can internally record data and has the option of
streaming data in real time via a waterproof connector located adjacent to the shackle. These
instruments are used when both real time streaming and internal logging may be required.
This manual describes the operation of both the AML-3 and AML-6 Logger (LGR) version.
1.1 Instrument Overview
AML instruments are highly customizable and may be equipped with a wide range of
user-specific sensors. The instruments described here are intended to be a representative
example of a typical setup and therefore may not be identical to the Reader’s unit. The Reader
is directed to any unit-specific supplementary documentation provided with their instrument for
information on features and functionality not described here.
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Figure 1 depicts a typical AML-3 LGR.
NOTE: Different cage lengths are
available, depending on the sensor
payload. Shown above is the shortest
cage option.
Figure 1: A typical AML-3 LGR. The
instrument shown here is
representative only and may differ from
the Reader’s instrument.
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Figure 2 depicts a typical AML-6 LGR.
Figure 2: A typical AML-6 LGR. The
instrument shown here is representative only
and may differ from the Reader’s instrument.
By default, both the AML-3 and AML-6
LGR instruments come equipped with a shackle, a USB-C connector, a power switch, and a
status indicator LED. The shackle has a hole coincident with the axis of the instrument to
facilitate suspension during deployment. It is recommended the instruments be deployed
vertically with the shackle end up. The AML-6 LGR shackle is also hook shaped to provide
secure handling by a user.
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The end of the instrument opposite the shackle houses the sensor payload which is
mechanically protected by a cage. The AML-3 utilizes a thread-on sensor cage, and the
AML-6 utilizes a bolted-on sensor cage. In some configurations the cage may be different
lengths depending on the sensors installed (AML-3 only) or made from a copper alloy to prevent
biofouling (AML-6 only). The default cage for both instruments uses stainless steel.
Typical specifications of an AML LGR are described in the table below.
Specifications:
Model
500m Variants (AML-3 or AML-6)
6000m Variants (AML-3 or AML-6)
Depth rating
500 meters [1640 feet]
6000 meters [19685 feet]
Material
AML-3: Acetal pressure case
AML-6: Acetal pressure case
AML-3: Titanium pressure case
AML-6: Acetal pressure case with
internal metal reinforcement
GPS Capability
Yes
No
Data storage
30 GB
30 GB
Software
Sailfish
Sailfish
Communication
USB-C
WiFi
USB-C
Maximum
Sample Rate
20 Hz
Note: Sampling by pressure or
sound velocity increment is also
available.
20 Hz
Note: Sampling by pressure or
sound velocity increment is also
available.
Power
AML-3:
4 cell rechargeable internal battery
45Wh capacity (expected battery
life ~12 hours)
AML-6:
8 cell rechargeable internal battery
95Wh capacity (expected battery
life ~24 hours)
PC or wall charging over USB
(10W minimum)
Note: USB ports of some PC and
laptops may not meet the minimum
charging requirement of the
instrument. It is recommended to
AML-3:
4 cell rechargeable internal battery
45Wh capacity for the AML-3
(expected battery life ~12 hours)
AML-6:
8 cell rechargeable internal battery
95Wh capacity (expected battery life
~24 hours)
PC or wall charging over USB (10W
minimum)
Note: USB ports of some PC and
laptops may not meet the minimum
charging requirement of the
instrument. It is recommended to
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use the included USB Wall Charger
for charging the instrument.
use the included USB Wall Charger
for charging the instrument.
Temperature
-20 to +45°C (Operation)
-20 to +60°C (Storage)
-20 to +45°C (Operation)
-20 to +60°C (Storage)
Dimensions
AML-3:
Diameter: 7.6 cm / 3.0 in
Length:
Short Cage: 33.4 cm /
13.15 in (SVP set up)
Medium Cage: 39.8 cm /
15.66 in (CTD set up)
Long Cage: 46.4 cm / 18.26
in (UV Protected)
Weight*:
1.36 kg / 3.00 lb (air)
.69 kg / 1.52 lb (water)
AML-6:
Diameter: 10.0 cm / 3.90 in
Length: 60.0 cm / 23.6 in
Weight**:
4.00 kg / 8.80 lb (air)
2.00 kg / 4.40 lb (water)
AML-3:
Diameter: 7.6 cm / 3.0 in
Length:
Short Cage: 33.4 cm / 13.15
in (SVP set up)
Medium Cage: 39.8 cm /
15.66 in (CTD set up)
Long Cage: 46.4 cm / 18.26
in (UV Protected)
Weight*:
2.5 kg / 5.6 lb (air)
1.9 kg / 4.1 lb (water)
AML-6:
Diameter: 10.0 cm / 3.90 in
Length: 60.0 cm / 23.6 in
Weight**:
5.80 kg / 12.80 lb (air)
3.80 kg / 8.40 lb (water)
* With a medium cage and no sensors, deployed weights will vary
** With no installed sensors, deployment weight will vary.
1.2 Communicating with the Instrument
The preferred method of communication (setup, downloading data, etc.) is through the use of
WiFi (500m only, use USB-C for a 6000m rated instrument). By default, the instrument
automatically sets up a WiFi hotspot upon power up, allowing WiFi-enabled computers, laptops,
and tablets to directly connect.
The 500m versions of AML LGRs come with an accessory USB-WiFi dongle. Use of the dongle
is not required (any WiFi adapter will connect to the instrument) but it does provide a convenient
method for allowing a compatible PC to host two WiFi connections - the on-board WiFi adapter
remains connected with the local network, and the USB adapter connects directly to the
instrument. AML’s software, Sailfish, allows the user to selectively use available WiFi adapters
to connect to the instrument.
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In general, users should always use Sailfish to connect to the instrument. However,
advanced users (OEM integrators, etc.) may desire connecting to the instrument without
Sailfish, in which case a WiFI password will be required. The password is the serial number,
repeated. For example, AML_A30001 has a password of A30001A30001. Note: You should
never be required to enter the password when connecting with Sailfish.
AML-3 and AML-6 LGR instruments come equipped with a USB-C connector with waterproof
cover. This connector provides power to the instrument when connected to a compatible USB
port or wall charger. This connector is also used as a secondary means for data transfer
(downloading internally logged data) and may be configured via AML’s interface software,
Sailfish. Note: This connector is only waterproof when the protective cover is installed. It
is not intended for use when deployed. Do not remove the waterproof cover when the
instrument is wet. Applying connector grease to the port can increase resistance to
damage from a splash of water when the cover is off.
Both AML LGR instruments come with a USB-C to USB-A cable for charging and USB
communications. If the provided cable is lost, it is feasible to purchase an off the shelf
replacement, provided the cable is rated to handle 5W. Generally speaking the shorter the cable
the better.
See Appendix F - USB FAQ for USB-related questions.
1.3 Charging the Instrument
The AML LGR instruments use an internal battery for operation. The battery typically requires a
charging top-up when the instrument is first received by the user.
The battery must be charged when the LED indicator flashes red, failure to maintain charge in
the battery can cause damage to the instrument.
The instrument is charged via its USB-C connector, either through connection with a compatible
USB port or via the provided wall charger (recommended). Note that it is common for USB ports
to have insufficient power to simultaneously charge and operate the instrument, so it is
recommended that the wall charger be used to charge the instrument. The instrument body
may get warm during charging. This is normal and a result of the instrument’s fast-charge
capability.
Applying power through the USB-C connector does not automatically turn the instrument on,
and the instrument may be charged with the switch in either the ‘on’ or ‘off’ position. Charging is
fastest with the switch set to ‘off’ - typically on the order of 8hrs.
When deploying an AML-3 or AML-6 LGR Instrument where the indicator cannot be viewed
directly, it is recommended the internal battery thresholds be modified to protect the battery from
completely discharging, causing damage to the instrument. The command for this can be found
in Section 5 under the power commands. AML recommends increasing the battery shutdown
voltage to 6.9V in this deployment case.
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1.4 Auxiliary Sensors
It is possible for AML instruments to be equipped with additional sensors which are not installed
on the instrument sensor endcap. These are referred to as auxiliary sensors and may be either
fastened to the side of the instrument body or installed on adjacent moored equipment.
AML-3 LGR instruments can accommodate one auxiliary sensor and AML-6 LGR instruments
can accommodate two auxiliary sensors for a maximum sensor load of 4 and 8 sensors,
respectively.
In all cases, auxiliary sensors are connected to the instrument via a waterproof connector on the
Connector Endcap, providing power and communication (note that Figure 1 and 2 do not show
any auxiliary sensors). It is typical for auxiliary sensors mounted on the side of the instrument to
be protected by a stainless steel or copper alloy guard.
1.5 GPS Functionality (500m Only)
AML LGR instruments that are 500m rated come equipped with on-board GPS + GLONASS
functionality. The instrument will automatically power its GPS module and begin signal
acquisition immediately upon bootup. In general, lock times are expected to occur in 5 minutes
or less after bootup, though they may take longer in challenging conditions. For best GPS
performance, ensure the instrument is located outdoors and with a direct line of sight to the
horizon and sky above. It is also recommended that the instrument be powered on in advance
of taking a profile to allow sufficient time for signal acquisition.
Note that a GPS lock is not required for instrument functionality; data will be logged regardless
of acquisition status.
It is possible to configure Sailfish to assign location coordinates to the instrument as provided by
an external GPS broadcast on board a vessel. See the Connecting a GPS Listener section for
more details.
Sailfish enables a feature called Offline Assist to improve GPS lock times. Details can be
found in the GPS Offline Assist section.
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1.6 Indicator LED Flash Patterns
The instrument is equipped with a multi-colour indicator LED, located adjacent to the shackle.
The table below describes the pattern and colour indications.
Steady
(solid on)
Double flash
3
__.__.
Pulsing
Flashing
...
Green
Ready
2
Baery good
GPS
acquiring
1,2
Baery good
-
Logging
Red
Ready
2
Baery low
GPS
acquiring
1,2
Baery low
-
Logging
Baery low
Orange/ White/
Blue
-
-
Boot up or boot
down sequence.
-
White
Baery full
4
-
-
Error state
Orange
-
-
Charging
-
1 - LGR instruments may be deployed without GPS lock. Data will be recorded but locaon informaon
will not be updated from the previous posion.
2 - The instrument may be deployed in any of these states. Data will be logged.
3 - 6000m variants of AML-6 and AML-3 LGR instruments do not have on-board GPS. Double-flash will
not occur.
4 - The instrument will show a solid white LED to signify the baery is full only when the instrument’s
power switch is in the off posion and the charging cable is installed between the instrument and a
power source.
1.7 Pressure Ratings
Pressure ratings may differ between installed sensors and the instrument body, and
deployments should never exceed the shallower of these ratings. For example, a 500m
instrument equipped with a 6000dBar pressure sensor is limited to deployments of 500m depth
or less. Similarly, a 6000m instrument equipped with a 500dBar pressure sensor is also limited
to deployments of 500m depth or less.
The instrument pressure rating is identified on the end of the instrument, adjacent to the
shackle. Typical ratings for AML-3 and AML-6 LGR instruments are 500m and 6000m (note that
the AML-3 LGR 500m instrument and both AML-6 LGR ratings use plastic housings, while the
AML-3 LGR 6000m instrument uses a titanium housing).
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2 Getting Started
This section provides an overview of basic instrument operation and functionality under a
factory-default setup. Specifically, this section describes how to connect to the instrument,
change settings via interface software, stream sensor measurements, and record and download
data.
Details describing how to change the instrument’s configuration and behaviour are described in
the Configuration section of this document.
2.1 Getting started with Sailfish via USB-C or WiFi Connection
The preferred (but not the only) method of communicating with the instrument is via AML’s
software interface, Sailfish; a user-friendly GUI-based platform which allows users to configure
an instrument, observe live sensor measurements (live data streaming), and download logged
data. Sailfish may be downloaded free of charge from the AML Oceanographic website
( www.AMLoceanographic.com ).
Sailfish provides the easiest means of adjusting the instrument’s configuration. Advanced
commands exist, and may be applied via command line. Refer to section Configuring an
Instrument later in this document for more details.
To use Sailfish to configure the AML-3 and AML-6 LGR instrument, follow the procedure
described below:
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1. Download the Sailfish install file from the AML website and follow the on-screen
installation instructions. Sailfish is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 and 11.
a. Note: be sure to enable both private and public network access if prompted
during installation.
2. Turn the instrument on using the power switch. When the switch is set to the ‘on’ position
the instrument will commence its bootup sequence, indicated by an alternating colour
pattern on the status indicator LED. The boot sequence is complete when the status
LED is green. Typical boot duration is about 10 seconds.
3. Start Sailfish and wait for the software to load. When loaded, navigate to the Devices
tab.
4. If you open Sailfish before connecting your instrument, you will need to click on the
‘Refresh’ button for your instrument to appear.
5. Connect the instrument to the PC via WiFi (preferred) or the included USB-C cable. If
using the USB-C connector, the user’s PC may produce the default USB-device
connection chime when recognition and setup is successful.
a. Note that if using the USB-C connection, the instrument may commence
charging its internal battery. The instrument is equipped with fast-charge
capabilities so it may become warm during this time.
b. 6000m AML-3 LGR instruments do not have WiFi; connection must be done via
USB-C.
6. A tile corresponding to available instrument connections will appear in the Devices tab of
Sailfish. A small icon in the corner of the tiles denotes the corresponding connection
method. Either WiFi or USB-C may be selected.
a. Note: If connection difficulties are encountered, restart the PC. This solves the
majority of connection issues.
7. Select the appropriate tile and click ‘Connect’.
8. Click the gear icon on the instrument tile to open the Instrument Settings page. Follow
the on-screen instructions to configure the instrument as desired.
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a. Note: A common action at this step is to tare the pressure sensor if required. This
is achieved by clicking the Gear Icon and selecting Tare Pressure Sensor.
9. The user is encouraged to explore the Instrument Settings page to familiarize
themselves with typical settings.
10. Optional: a common step for first time users is to commence real-time measurement
(data) streaming from the instrument. This is achieved through the Live Data tab in
Sailfish.
To disconnect the instrument, unplug the USB-C cable or click the ‘Disconnect’ button.
2.2 Conducting a Profile
The typical workflow for conducting a profile is as follows:
1. Turn the instrument on and connect it to Sailfish using either WiFi (preferred) or USB-C
(refer Getting Started ) and confirm the instrument’s battery status and configuration. Be
sure to tare the pressure sensor if required.
2. The instrument’s indicator LED will flash if it is attempting to acquire a GPS signal. If
GPS is locked, the instrument’s LED will turn solid. Refer the LED Flash Patterns in
Section 1.5 for more details.
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a. Note that an instrument may be deployed without a GPS lock. Data will still be
logged, but the location data will be absent.
b. In the absence of a GPS lock, an instrument may be manually provided with GPS
coordinates in the Instrument Settings page.
3. If settings are correct, then ensure the instrument is ready for immersion by confirming
that the USB-C connector cover is in place. Do not deploy the instrument without the
USB-C cover threaded completely onto the connector.
4. The instrument may be deployed at any time. If connected via WiFi, there is no need to
select the Disconnect button in Sailfish.
5. Lower the instrument into the water until its shackle sits just below the water line and its
indicator LED is visible. In most applications, the instrument is suspended by its shackle
from a downrigger, crab puller, or other mechanical device.
6. By default, the instrument will create a new log file and begin to record (log) data
automatically upon water detection.
a. Water detection is achieved by monitoring the measurements of an installed
Sound Velocity or Conductivity sensor. This behaviour is configurable through
advanced commands.
7. When in water and recording data, the instrument’s indicator LED will flash, confirming
operation.
8. Hold the instrument submerged just below the surface of the water for 60 - 90 seconds
to allow the instrument to thermalize. The instrument may then be lowered to the desired
depth.
9. If the instrument was connected via WiFi then its connection to Sailfish will be lost (by
default, the instrument will turn its WiFi off when in water). Sailfish will recognize this
action and sit idle, awaiting for the instrument to return to the surface.
10. When the desired depth is achieved, retrieve the instrument and pull it completely out of
the water. The instrument will close its log file when it detects that it is out of water.
11. When out of water the instrument will turn its WiFi back on. Sailfish will automatically
detect the return of the instrument and connect.
a. Note: If the instrument’s WiFi connection was manually disconnected from
Sailfish prior to deployment (by pressing Disconnect ), then the instrument will
need to be manually re-connected to Sailfish by the user.
b. If re-connecting via USB-C, dry the instrument prior to removing the USB-C
waterproof cover.
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12. Upon (re)-connection, Sailfish will recognize new log files available for download.
Automatic downloads can be enabled in Sailfish, but this is not the default setting.
13. New log files may be viewed, plotted, and exported in various formats using the Data
Manager tab in Sailfish.
2.3 Connecting a GPS Listener
Sailfish has the ability to connect to an external GPS listener so that GPS location data may be
sent to an instrument. To set up an external listener, follow these steps:
1. Navigate to the Devices page and click on the ‘Add Listener’ button. Select ‘GPS
Listener.
2. To configure the GPS listener settings, click the ‘Gear Icon’ on the listener tile.
3. Configure the settings according to your external GPS listener device. Both serial and
UDP connections are supported. Sailfish will remember your GPS listener settings and
automatically connect next time you add the listener.
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4. If the listener has been configured correctly, position data will be displayed in the tile and
the location icon will turn green.
5. It is now possible to sync the external listener location to the instrument by clicking the
‘Instrument Settings’ icon on the Device Tile and selecting ‘Sync GPS to Listener’
6. If your instrument’s location mode was previously set to ‘GPS’, you will be prompted to
set it to ‘Manual’. Doing this will tell the instrument to ignore its on-board GPS module.
This synced position information will be stored and used in newly created log files until
the instrument’s location is either synced again or the Location Mode is set back to
‘GPS’. This can be done on the Instrument Settings page.
7. If connection to the GPS listener is lost, you can still sync to the last known location until
you disable the GPS listener or close Sailfish.
8. To automatically sync your instrument to the GPS listener every time you reconnect to
Sailfish, enable the ‘Auto Update Instrument Location” setting.
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3 Configuration using Sailfish
To configure with Sailfish, reference the Getting Started with Sailfish section.
Settings most commonly configured via Sailfish are detailed below.
3.1 Sampling Mode
Setting
Description
Sample Trigger
Sets the variable that determines when a
sample is taken. Options are time, pressure
increment, sound velocity increment, and
continuous (20Hz) sample rate.
Sample Unit
Available when time is selected as the
sample trigger. Options are /second (per
second), /minute (per minute), /hour (per
hour), seconds, minutes and hours.
Sample Rate
Available when time is selected as the
sample trigger. Works with Sample Unit
setting to determine sample rate.
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For example, entering 10 with the sample unit
set to seconds would result in a sample taken
every 10 seconds. Changing the sample unit
to /second would result in samples taken 10
times per second.
Pressure Increment
Available when pressure increment is set as
the sample trigger. Sets the pressure
increment (in dBar) when a sample should be
taken.
Sound Increment
Available when sound velocity is selected as
the sample trigger. Sets the sound velocity
increment (in m/s) when a sample should be
taken.
3.2 Log parameters
These settings control which parameters are included in the data stream and the generated log
file. Note that some parameters require specific sensor configurations to be calculated. Options
include date, time, density, salinity, calculated sound velocity, battery, depth, and raw values.
3.3 Instrument Time and Location
Setting
Description
Date and Time Source
Select the clock to synchronize the
instrument to. Options are the connected
computer’s clock, or GPS.
Location Mode
Select the GPS source to synchronize the
instrument to. Options are Instrument
(internal GPS), manual (external GPS), and
none.
3.4 Power Management
Setting
Description
In-Water WiFi Sleep
Specify if the WiFi chip should be disabled while
underwater or not.
In-Water WiFi Sleep Timeout
(secs)
The amount of time before the WiFi chip will be disabled
once the instrument detects that it is underwater.
Power Timeout
Specify if the instrument should turn itself off if left idle.
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