AML X Series User manual

PlusX
User Manual
Version 1.78
13 April 2017

Revision History
Revision
Date
Description
Author
Version 1.4
26 February 2013
Added Turbidity•Xchange™, Configurations Table, Overview Drawings
Dustin Olender
Version 1.5
11 June 2013
Format revision and updates
Jehan Zouak
Version 1.6
26 August 2013
Minor edits
Jehan Zouak
Version 1.7
16 July 2014
Added Ordering Codes
Jehan Zouak
Version 1.71
06 Oct 2014
Added Calculated SV
Dustin Olender
Version 1.72
18 Mar 2015
Updated manual for SeaCast 4
Andrew Beak-Taylor
Version 1.73
30 April 2015
Data•Xchange and formatting edits
Jehan Zouak
Version 1.74
22 June 2015
Updated technical specifications
Jehan Zouak
Version 1.75
27 October 2015
Updated Alkaline Battery Replacement
Matt Tradewell
Version 1.76
25 November 2015
Updated manual to include CT•Xchange™ and updated product codes
Tony Nordstrom
Version 1.77
22 January 2016
Minor edits
Jehan Zouak
Version 1.78
13 April 2017
Added regulatory information, updated maintenance instructions
Andrew Beak-Taylor

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
1
Table of Contents
Table of Contents............................................................................................................................................ 1
General Description of the Instrument ............................................................................................................ 2
Where Do I Start? ........................................................................................................................................... 3
Shipping & Receiving...................................................................................................................................... 4
Receiving an Instrument ............................................................................................................................ 4
Returning an Instrument to the Factory...................................................................................................... 4
Using the Instrument....................................................................................................................................... 5
Pressure Ratings........................................................................................................................................ 5
Pre-Deployment Procedures...................................................................................................................... 5
Supported Sensor Configurations .............................................................................................................. 7
LED Indicator ............................................................................................................................................. 8
Configuring Sampling Parameters Using SeaCast .................................................................................... 9
Configuring Sampling Parameters through the Terminal ........................................................................... 9
Accounting for Atmospheric Pressure Variations at the Surface................................................................ 9
Logging a Profile ...................................................................................................................................... 10
Monitoring Real Time Data ...................................................................................................................... 11
Post-Deployment Procedures .................................................................................................................. 11
Viewing your Data.................................................................................................................................... 11
Configuring the Instrument for Data on Power Up ................................................................................... 14
Disabling Data on Power Up .................................................................................................................... 14
Maintaining the Instrument............................................................................................................................ 15
Periodic Maintenance............................................................................................................................... 15
Battery Care............................................................................................................................................. 15
Replacing Alkaline Batteries: ................................................................................................................... 16
Charging Ni-Cad Batteries: ...................................................................................................................... 18
Communications ........................................................................................................................................... 19
PC Settings .............................................................................................................................................. 19
Output Formats ........................................................................................................................................ 19
Default Output Format ....................................................................................................................... 19
Default Example Outputs................................................................................................................... 20
Support ......................................................................................................................................................... 23
Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................................................... 23
Contact AML Oceanographic ................................................................................................................... 25
Appendices ................................................................................................................................................... 26
Commands............................................................................................................................................... 26
Communications Commands............................................................................................................. 26
Sampling Rate Commands................................................................................................................ 26
Output Format Commands ................................................................................................................ 27
Logging Commands........................................................................................................................... 27
General Commands........................................................................................................................... 28
Technical Specifications........................................................................................................................... 29
Ordering Codes............................................................................................................................................. 32
Regulatory Information.................................................................................................................................. 34
Warranty ....................................................................................................................................................... 34
Technical Overview Drawings....................................................................................................................... 35

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
2
General Description of the Instrument
The AML Oceanographic X•Series instruments and XchangeTM sensors are a major advancement
in ocean instrumentation. Swappable and interchangeable sensors dramatically improve the
capabilities of ocean instrumentation in the following ways:
•Change the instrument sensor types while at sea within seconds, and without tools. A CTD
can be changed to a sound speed profiler by exchanging sensor heads.
•To optimize the resolution and accuracy of sensor data, sensors can be swapped to change
the measurement range. For example, a 6000 dBar P•Xchange pressure sensor can be
swapped with a 500 dBar P•Xchange sensor; the salt water C•Xchange conductivity sensor
can be swapped for a fresh water C•Xchange conductivity sensor.
•Sensors from one instrument can be swapped to another instrument to maintain mission-
critical capabilities.
•Calibrated sensors can be sent from the factory to the instrument. The instrument is not
pulled from active duty for calibration.
•Spare sensors ensure that an instrument can be immediately returned to active duty after
sustaining damage.
•All calibration and traceability data resides within each XchangeTM sensor. Calibration data
for all sensors is available from the instrument, and calibration certificates can be printed
from AML Oceanographic SeaCast software when the instrument is connected.
•Logged data is stamped with sensor traceability and instrument configuration data.
•Only XchangeTM sensors are sent for calibration, leaving the instrument working in the field.
Plus•X is the largest multi-sensor data logging instrument of the X•Series family. It is designed
primarily for deep, winch-deployed profiling operations. Plus•X is available in two configurations:
P1S3: Equipped with one primary Xchange™ sensor port (C•Xchange, CT•Xchange or SV•Xchange)
and three secondary Xchange™ sensor ports (T•Xchange, P•Xchange, Tu•Xchange). Up to four
additional analog ports can be added by the factory, if required.
P2S2: Equipped with two primary Xchange™ sensor ports (C•Xchange, CT•Xchange or
SV•Xchange) and two secondary Xchange™ sensor ports (T•Xchange, P•Xchange, Tu•Xchange).
Up to four additional analog ports can be added by the factory, if required.
Plus•X is capable of logging continuously for 49 hours with fresh alkaline batteries. The actual life
varies somewhat depending on the sensors installed. Sampling rates are programmable by time (25
Hz to every 24 hours), by pressure (0.1 dbar or greater increments), or by sound speed (0.1 m/s or
greater increments). When logging at time intervals of 25 seconds or more, Plus•X powers down
between samples to conserve the batteries.
Supported communication protocols for Plus•X are RS-232 or RS-485. The instrument can be
powered both internally and externally.
Like all AML logging instruments, Plus•X can be equipped with a Data•Xchange to add wireless
capabilities and enhance data transfer rates.

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
3
Where Do I Start?
AML Oceanographic X•Series instruments ship with several manuals on the USB stick:
•An instrument manual (this Plus•X manual) providing an overview on how to use and
maintain the instrument;
•A SeaCast manual providing instructions on how to use the software to configure the
instrument and review instrument data;
•Xchange™ sensor manuals (C•Xchange™, CT•Xchange™, SV•Xchange™, P•Xchange™,
T•Xchange™, and Turbidity•Xchange™) providing overviews on how to install and maintain
each of the Xchange™ sensors;
If you are configuring an instrument for field use or lab testing, begin with the SeaCast manual.
If you are performing instrument maintenance, begin with the instrument manual.
If you are planning to swap an Xchange™ sensor, read the Xchange™ manual corresponding to
your sensors.
If you will be using Data•Xchange with your instrument, refer to its manual beforehand.

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
4
Shipping & Receiving
Receiving an Instrument
When receiving an instrument, perform the following steps to ensure the instrument will be ready for
deployment when required:
•Inspect the shipping container, looking for signs of damage. Damage to the shipping
container could indicate damage to the instrument inside.
•The shipping package should include all of the following items
oPlus•X instrument
oData•Xchange (if purchased)
oData/Power cable
oRed shorting plug
oBlack dummy plug
oOne primary sensor blanking plug
oTwo secondary sensor blanking plugs
oUSB stick with manuals and documentation
•Inspect for damage
oCheck the cable for slices or gouges
oCheck the connector sockets for corrosion, dirt, and salt deposits
oCheck the pressure case for dents and scrapes
oCheck the sensors for cracks or bends
•Ensure all the Xchange™ sensors are installed tightly. The blue locking sleeve should be
tight, and sitting less than 1 mm from the instrument end cap.
•Connect the instrument to a computer with the data cable and perform a scan or monitor if
using SeaCast. Check the battery voltage on the output (normally the last column of data,
unless calculated parameters have been enabled). It should be between 9.9 and 14 volts.
Returning an Instrument to the Factory
•If shipping for repair or recalibration, obtain an RMA number from the service centre.
•Pack the instrument in its original shipping box to prevent damage during shipping.
An RMA number can be requested using the contact options given in the Support section of this
manual.

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
5
Using the Instrument
Pressure Ratings
Pressure ratings are given for Xchange™ sensors and the entire instrument. Deployments should
never exceed the lower of these two pressure ratings. For example, a 500m instrument equipped
with a 6000 dBar (0-6000m) P•Xchange™ sensor is limited to deployments of 500m depth or less.
Similarly, a 6000m instrument equipped with a 500 dBar (0-500m) P•Xchange™ sensor is also
limited to deployments of 500m depth or less.
It is desirable to optimize the accuracy of pressure measurements by using a P•Xchange™ sensor
with a pressure range that closely matches the depth of the deployment.
Pre-Deployment Procedures
•Upon Receipt
oUse the Shipping and Receiving instructions to verify the condition of the instrument.
oVerify that all sensor calibrations are valid for the duration of the deployment. If not,
swap the Xchange™ sensors for sensors with valid calibrations or send the
Xchange™ sensors to a service centre for recalibration.
oLightly lubricate the underwater connectors with 3M silicone spray or equivalent.
•Before leaving the jetty
oIf applicable, verify the P•Xchange™ pressure range is correct for the deployment.
oConnect the instrument to a computer using the data cable.
oCheck the instrument memory
▪Save any unsaved memory files.
▪Initialize the memory (Note: This deletes ALL files stored in the instrument
memory. Be sure to have a copy of all important logged data before
performing this step.).
•If using SeaCast, click the Clear Memory box.
•If using a Terminal Emulator, send instrument an INIT command.
Primary Xchange™ mount blanking plug Secondary Xchange™ mount blanking plug
Caution: Do not exceed the specified pressure ratings of the P•Xchange™
sensor, Turbidity•Xchange™ sensor, or the instrument housing.
Overpressure can result in damage to the sensors and the instrument.
Primary Port
Elevated
C•Xchange™
CT•Xchange™
SV•Xchange™
Caution: Install blanking plugs in all unused sensor ports prior to deployment. Failure to install
blanking plugs will result in damage to the connectors.

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
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Plus•X endcap with one primary and four secondary ports (abbreviated as P1S4). Blanking plugs shown
installed. Plus•X endcaps are available with different combinations of ports to allow for a wide variety of
sensor combinations.
Swappable sensors allow you to configure your instrument in a number of different ways. See the
tables below for two endcap styles and popular sensor combinations. Note that not all supported
sensor combinations are shown. It is possible, for example, to install two T•Xchange™ sensors, or
two P•Xchange™ sensors simultaneously for cross verification, or in the case of
Turbidity•Xchange™, using two different ranges to capture both high and low events accurately.
Secondary Port
Lower
T•Xchange™
P•Xchange™
Turbidity•Xchange™
Secondary Port
Upper
T•Xchange™
P•Xchange™

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
7
Supported Sensor Configurations
P2S2 Endcap
Port Type
Primary (P2)
Secondary (S2)
Port Level
Elevated ↑↑
Upper ↑
Upper ↑
Lower ↓
1
C
SV
T
P
2
C
SV
P
T
3
C
SV
T
Turbidity
4
C
SV
P
Turbidity
5
CT
SV
T
P
P1S4 Endcap
Port Type
Primary (P1)
Secondary (S4)
Port Level
Elevated ↑↑
Upper ↑
Upper ↑
Lower ↓
Lower ↓
1
C
T
P
Turbidity
Turbidity
2
C
P
T
Turbidity
Turbidity
3
SV
T
P
Turbidity
Turbidity
4
SV
P
T
Turbidity
Turbidity
5
CT
P
T
Turbidity
Turbidity

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
8
LED Indicator
The LED indicator is located next to the data/power connector on the instrument’s top endcap.
•The LED indicator will be on whenever the data/power cable is
plugged into the instrument.
•The LED indicator will turn on when the red shorting plug is
inserted into the instrument. It will turn off after 5 minutes to
conserve power.
•When the instrument is logging and is brought back to the
surface, the LED indicator will resume for 5 minutes so that the
operator can see that the instrument is still functioning after the
cast.
The LED indicator displays are as follows:
•LED is a constant green: This indicates the instrument is on and the batteries have more than
20% capacity remaining for alkaline batteries, 5% for NiCad batteries.
•LED is flashing green: The instrument is logging data and the batteries have more than 20%
capacity remaining for alkaline batteries, 5% for NiCad batteries.
Note:
oThe flashing green LED will turn off after 5 minutes to conserve power.
oThe instrument will not start logging until it is immersed in water and it takes its first
sample at the programmed sampling rate.
•LED is a constant red: This indicates the instrument is on and the batteries have less than
20% capacity remaining for alkaline batteries, 5% for NiCad batteries.
•LED is flashing red: The instrument is logging data and the batteries have less than 20%
capacity remaining for alkaline batteries, 5% for NiCad batteries.
Note:
oThe flashing red LED will turn off after 5 minutes to conserve power.
oThe instrument will not start logging until it is immersed in water and it takes its first
sample at the programmed sampling rate.
•LED off with data/power cable attached: The instrument is not working properly. Consult the
Troubleshooting section or call the service department.
•LED off with the red shorting plug inserted: If the shorting plug was inserted less than 5
minutes ago, the instrument is not working properly. Consult the Troubleshooting section or
call the service department. If the LED was on for the first 5 minutes after inserting the shorting
plug the instrument is functioning correctly and the LED has turned off to conserve power.

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
9
Configuring Sampling Parameters Using SeaCast
SeaCast is free software provided for use with AML Oceanographic instruments. It can be used to
set up an instrument for profiling or monitoring data, as well as downloading, graphing, and exporting
the collected data.
Full details on the instrument configuration process and the software’s capabilities can be found in
the SeaCast manual.
Configuring Sampling Parameters through the Terminal
Instruments can also be configured for deployment using a terminal emulation program like
HyperTerminal,RealTerm, or Tera Term. Communications with the instrument must be established
using the correct communications port and settings. The communications settings are 8 data bits, 1
stop bit, no parity, no flow control, and the desired baud rate.
The following steps must be completed by issuing text commands:
Step
Possible Commands
Initialize Memory (erases instrument memory)
INIT
Set Log File Name
SET LOG filename.txt
Set Instrument Time & Date
SET TIME hh:mm:ss
SET DATE mm/dd/yy
Set Sampling Parameters
SET SAMPLE RATE CONTINUOUS
SET SAMPLE RATE 5/s
SET P INC 1
SET SOUND INC 2
The above table provides example commands only; many additional sampling regimes can be established using
available commands. Please consult the Commands section of the Appendix for full syntax details on the commands
you wish to use.
Accounting for Atmospheric Pressure Variations at the Surface
Climate and altitude changes can create fluctuations in atmospheric (barometric) pressure. AML's
pressure sensors are sensitive enough to detect these variations. When this happens, the
instrument's pressure channel may not read exactly zero when data is taken prior to submersion in
the water. Nearly all absolute pressure sensors experience atmospheric pressure offsets if they are
sufficiently sensitive.
To compensate for this atmospheric pressure offset, AML instruments have the ability to reset the
pressure sensor's zero point. This can be initiated using AML Oceanographic SeaCast software or
a Terminal emulator command. The compensation does not affect the calibration of the pressure
sensor, and can be turned off or recalculated at any time. The compensation factor is applied through
the entire calibrated pressure range. Note that this compensation cannot be applied to a built-in
Paroscientific Digiquartz sensor, as found in bathyMetrec•X.

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
10
Once the atmospheric pressure compensation is applied, it will be applied to all pressure sensor data
until it is turned off or recalculated. The setting is written to memory, so it remains set when the
instrument is powered down.
Using SeaCast
Refer to the SeaCast User Manual for instructions on enabling "Zero Depth."
Using a Terminal Emulator
•Establish serial communications with the instrument on your computer. Refer to the
Communications section of this manual for more information.
•Once a connection is established, ensure the instrument is stationary, and is not submerged
in water.
•To turn ON Atmospheric pressure compensation, issue the ZERO ON command. This will
calculate and apply the offset required to compensate for current atmospheric pressure
conditions.
•To turn OFF Atmospheric pressure compensation, issue the ZERO OFF command. This will
disable the offset.
•Issuing the ZERO command again will calculate a new offset based on current conditions.
Logging a Profile
•Ensure the pre-deployment procedures have been completed (see page 6).
•Plug the data/power cable into the instrument.
•Ensure that the desired sampling settings have been selected and applied.
•With the instrument in air (NOT submerged), use the ZERO command to zero the barometric
pressure offset (P•Xchange™ only).
•Insert the red shorting plug to power the instrument. Insertion of the shorting plug tells the
instrument to begin logging data once it is submerged. The instrument determines whether
or not it is submerged by looking for valid conductivity or sound speed readings.
oThe green LED light should illuminate on the top of the instrument indicating the
battery has more than 20% capacity remaining with alkaline batteries, 5% remaining
with Ni-Cad batteries, and the instrument is ready to start logging.
oIf the LED light is red, the battery charge is less than 20% with alkaline batteries,
5% with Ni-Cad batteries, but the instrument is still ready to log.
oIf the LED light fails to illuminate, the instrument will not log. Refer to the
Troubleshooting section of this manual if this occurs.
•Securely attach the lowering cable to the instrument shackle bar.
•Lower the instrument until it is just submerged. Keep the instrument at this depth for 2
minutes prior to beginning the cast. This allows the sensors time to wet and the pressure
case to shed heat.
•Send the instrument down to the desired depth and return it to the surface.
•Note that with Plus•X in the typical, vertical orientation, the downcast data is usually more
accurate than the upcast data since the downcast measurements are not contaminated by
the thermal shedding from the pressure case.

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
11
Monitoring Real Time Data
•Ensure the pre-deployment procedures have been completed (see page 6).
•Ensure that the desired sampling settings have been selected and applied.
•Plug the data/power cable into the instrument. If you power the instrument externally over a
long cable, please note the following:
oVoltage drop due to cable resistance increases with cable length. The voltage drop
on a standard AML cable, with a standard Plus•X, is about 2 volts per 100m of cable
while sampling and 0 volts per 100m when in low power mode.
oThe instrument’s low voltage warning has a default level of 9.9 volts.
oThe instrument’s auto shutdown triggers when supplied with 8.0 volts or less.
oThe instrument’s maximum voltage is 26 volts.
oThe voltage at the instrument, while sampling, must be above the shutdown level
for the instrument to operate.
•With the instrument in air, use the ZERO command to zero the barometric pressure offset
(P•Xchange™ only).
•Securely attach the lowering cable to the instrument shackle bar.
•Lower the instrument until the sensors are fully submerged; the LED should start to flash
green. Keep the instrument at this depth for 2 minutes prior to beginning the cast. This allows
the sensors time to wet, and the pressure case to shed heat.
•Begin monitoring data using SeaCast or HyperTerminal.
•Send the instrument down to the desired depth and return it to the surface.
•Note that with Plus•X in the typical vertical orientation, the downcast is usually more accurate
than the upcast data since the downcast measurements are not contaminated by the thermal
shedding from the pressure case.
Post-Deployment Procedures
•When the instrument is pulled from the water it should be rinsed with fresh water.
•Dry the area around the connectors with a clean cloth or compressed air prior to
disconnecting the plugs or cables. Do not blow compressed air into the Pressure•Xchange™
sensor. Doing so may damage the sensitive pressure transducer diaphragm.
•Remove the shorting plug or cable. Place the dummy plug in the connector to protect it.
•Dry the instrument and stow it securely.
Viewing your Data
You may download and view data directly through the terminal, or automatically using SeaCast. The
SeaCast manual has more information. Alternately, use the following instructions to access the data
manually.
•Connect the instrument to the computer using the data/power cable.
•With the terminal, use the DIR command to list all the files on memory, then the DUMP
command to retrieve the file of interest. For example:
Plus.X Version 4.09 SN:8221
AML Oceanographic Ltd.
968.5 MBytes installed
>dir

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
12
test .raw 5598 02/24/10 14:41:55.00
data .txt 3987 02/24/10 14:45:08.00
960 MBytes free
7 MBytes Used
2 File(s) listed
>dump data.txt
[cast header]
InstrumentSN=08221
Date=02/24/10
Time=14:45:10.55
PressureOffset=0.09
UsePressureOffset=yes
Slot1Sensor1=SV-C.Xchange SV.X SN 131197 01/22/10
Slot2Sensor1=P-T.Xchange P.X SN 145721 08/21/09 T.X SN 400048 11/17/09
[Data]
02/24/10 14:45:10.66 1474.313 0000.015 17.447 008.18 00.034 0998.724
02/24/10 14:45:10.69 1474.334 0000.015 17.449 008.20 00.046 0998.733
02/24/10 14:45:11.19 1474.332 0000.027 17.451 008.20 00.037 0998.726
02/24/10 14:45:11.69 1474.326 0000.027 17.451 008.20 00.032 0998.722
02/24/10 14:45:12.19 1474.319 0000.027 17.457 008.20 00.011 0998.705
02/24/10 14:45:12.69 1474.321 0000.034 17.459 008.20 00.005 0998.700
02/24/10 14:45:13.19 1474.318 0000.023 17.457 008.20 00.008 0998.702
02/24/10 14:45:13.69 1474.321 0000.019 17.458 008.20 00.010 0998.704
02/24/10 14:45:14.19 1474.427 0000.019 17.459 008.20 00.100 0998.773
02/24/10 14:45:14.69 0000.000 -0000.015 17.601 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:15.19 0000.000 -0000.030 17.655 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:15.69 0000.000 -0000.011 17.651 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:16.19 0000.000 -0000.015 17.632 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:16.69 0000.000 -0000.015 17.624 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:17.19 0000.000 -0000.015 17.622 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:17.69 0000.000 -0000.015 17.618 008.20 00.000 0000.000
[cast header]
InstrumentSN=08221
Date=02/24/10
Time=14:45:21.85
PressureOffset=0.09
UsePressureOffset=yes
Slot1Sensor1=SV-C.Xchange SV.X SN 131197 01/22/10
Slot2Sensor1=P-T.Xchange P.X SN 145721 08/21/09 T.X SN 400048 11/17/09
[Data]
02/24/10 14:45:21.92 1474.309 -0000.019 17.598 008.20 00.000 0998.671
02/24/10 14:45:21.95 1474.308 0000.019 17.451 008.20 00.017 0998.711
02/24/10 14:45:22.44 1474.301 0000.023 17.453 008.20 00.005 0998.701
02/24/10 14:45:22.94 1474.297 0000.011 17.453 008.20 00.003 0998.699
02/24/10 14:45:23.44 1474.294 0000.019 17.451 008.20 00.005 0998.702
02/24/10 14:45:23.94 1474.314 0000.019 17.453 008.20 00.019 0998.711
02/24/10 14:45:24.44 1474.310 0000.027 17.453 008.20 00.015 0998.709
02/24/10 14:45:24.94 1474.307 0000.015 17.451 008.20 00.016 0998.709
02/24/10 14:45:25.44 1474.307 0000.027 17.453 008.20 00.009 0998.704
02/24/10 14:45:25.94 1474.308 0000.023 17.454 008.20 00.008 0998.703
02/24/10 14:45:26.44 1474.313 0000.023 17.451 008.20 00.021 0998.714
02/24/10 14:45:26.94 1474.294 0000.023 17.452 008.20 00.002 0998.699
02/24/10 14:45:27.44 1474.313 0000.023 17.453 008.20 00.015 0998.709
02/24/10 14:45:27.94 1474.303 0000.023 17.454 008.20 00.004 0998.700
02/24/10 14:45:28.44 1474.312 0000.023 17.453 008.20 00.015 0998.708
02/24/10 14:45:28.94 1474.319 0000.030 17.453 008.20 00.019 0998.712
02/24/10 14:45:29.44 1474.336 0000.027 17.450 008.20 00.045 0998.732
02/24/10 14:45:29.94 1474.314 0000.027 17.450 008.20 00.023 0998.715

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
13
02/24/10 14:45:30.44 1474.326 0000.027 17.451 008.20 00.032 0998.722
02/24/10 14:45:30.94 1474.320 0000.027 17.451 008.20 00.027 0998.718
02/24/10 14:45:31.44 1474.305 0000.023 17.454 008.20 00.006 0998.701
02/24/10 14:45:31.94 1474.312 0000.030 17.451 008.20 00.020 0998.713
02/24/10 14:45:32.44 1474.311 0000.034 17.453 008.20 00.014 0998.708
02/24/10 14:45:32.94 1474.312 0000.030 17.450 008.20 00.021 0998.714
02/24/10 14:45:33.44 0000.000 -0000.011 17.459 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:33.94 0000.000 -0000.019 17.569 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:34.44 0000.000 -0000.015 17.548 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:34.94 0000.000 -0000.023 17.515 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:35.44 0000.000 -0000.015 17.498 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:35.94 0000.000 -0000.023 17.487 008.20 00.000 0000.000
02/24/10 14:45:36.44 0000.000 -0000.019 17.485 008.20 00.000 0000.000
>

User Manual for AML Oceanographic’s PlusX
14
Configuring the Instrument for Data on Power Up
Perform the following steps:
•Open a terminal emulation program such as HyperTerminal. Ensure the serial port has
been selected in the program. If the instrument has been set to a specific baud rate with
the SET DETECT command, the terminal emulation program must be configured for that
baud rate.
•Connect the instrument to the computer using the data/power cable.
•Using the terminal emulation program, issue the following commands to the instrument:
oSET STARTUP NOHEADER (disables the power up header information)
oSET STARTUP MONITOR (enables data output on power up)
oSET SAMPLE RATE 2/S (sets the desired sampling rate)
oSET DETECT 07 (sets fixed 38400 baud rate)
Note: Details on the SET DETECT command can be found in the Appendix.
•Unplug the data/power cable from the instrument to turn the instrument off.
•Plug the data/power cable into the instrument to turn the instrument on.
Disabling Data on Power Up
Perform the following steps:
•Open a terminal emulation program such as HyperTerminal. Ensure the serial port has
been selected in the program. If the instrument has been set to a specific baud rate with
the SET DETECT command, the terminal emulation program must be configured for that
baud rate.
•Connect the instrument to the computer using the data/power cable.
•Unplug the data/power cable from the instrument to turn the instrument off.
•Hold down the <ENTER> key.
•Plug the data/power cable into the instrument to turn the instrument on.
•Release the <ENTER> key once the prompt ‘>’ is displayed.
•Using the terminal emulation program issue the following commands to disable data on
power up:
oSET STARTUP HEADER (enables the power up header information)
oSET STARTUP PROMPT (disables data output on power up)
oSET SAMPLE RATE 2/S (selects the desired sampling rate)
oSET DETECT A7 (sets 10 autobaud attempts then defaults to 38400 baud)
Note: Details on the SET DETECT command can be found in the Appendix.
•Unplug the data/power cable from the instrument to turn the instrument off.

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Maintaining the Instrument
Periodic Maintenance
Periodic preventative maintenance will prolong the life of the instrument. The following steps are
recommended:
•If the instrument is very dirty or oily, allow it to soak in warm, soapy water before cleaning
with a rag or soft brush. When finished, rinse with fresh water to remove any residual soap
or dirt.
•Before each use:
oCheck for proper installation of all Xchange™ sensors.
oCheck for nicks and cuts on the cable.
•After each use:
oClean and rinse the instrument using fresh water.
oDry the instrument completely, and store it in a cool, dry place.
•Monthly:
oApply a layer of Molykote 44 medium silicone grease to the female half of the
connection as shown and fully insert the plug. Wipe away any excess that squeezes
out. This will lubricate both male and female connectors.
•Yearly:
oSend the instrument or Xchange™ sensors to a service centre for diagnostics and
re-calibration.
Battery Care
Incorrect care can reduce the life of the batteries. Below are some guidelines to prevent damage to
the batteries:
•Do not leave either the data cable or the red shorting plug installed in the instrument. This
turns the instrument on and depletes the battery.
•Before storing the instrument for several months, remove the alkaline batteries, or charge
the Ni-Cad batteries. The Ni-Cad batteries will self-discharge, so extended storage durations
can require recharging to protect the battery from fully depleting.

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Replacing Alkaline Batteries:
The Plus•X pressure case must be opened to replace the batteries:
•Rinse Plus•X with fresh water and dry it.
•Lay the instrument on its side and unscrew the retaining ring.
•Dry off any water that might have been underneath the retaining ring.
•Grasp the shackle, and pull the end cap straight out. A slight rocking motion will aid in removal of
the end cap.

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•Undo the Velcro straps, and remove the old batteries.
•Install the new batteries. NOTE: Be sure to match the + positive terminal of the battery with the red
dot.
•Tighten the Velcro straps around the new batteries.

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•Ensure that the O-ring and O-ring surface are free from dirt and debris.
•Slide the battery pack into the pressure case.
•Install the retaining ring.
Charging Ni-Cad Batteries:
Refer to the wiring diagram in the appendix, and perform the following steps:
•Ensure the instrument is dry.
•To avoid possible combustible gas build-up inside the instrument case, open the battery
compartment prior to charging the batteries.
oUnscrew the retaining ring on the shackle end cap.
oGrasp the shackle bar and wiggle the endcap off the pressure case, opening the
case by at least 3 cm.
•Plug the battery charging cable into the instrument.
•Plug the charger into the charging cable.
•Plug the charger into a 120 or 240 volt AC outlet.
•Turn the charger on with the power switch on the charger. The fast charge indicator light will
turn on indicating the batteries are being charged.
•Allow the batteries to charge until the fast charge light on the charger turns off. A full charge
requires approximately 6 hours.