AML AML-3 RT User manual

AML-3 RT: User Manual
Multiparameter Real Time Instrument
For more information visit AMLoceanographic.com or call [phone]

Revision History
Revision
Date
Description
1.1
14 Sept / 2020
Document Created
1.2
17 Oct 2020
Clarified connection types
1.3
03 Feb 2021
Sleep Mode, Monitor Checksum, AMLx Files
1.4
30 April 2021
RS-485
1.5
07 Sep 2021
Storage Recommendations, Additional Commands
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1 Introduction 6
1.1 Instrument Overview 6
1.2 Internal Battery 9
1.3 Connectors and Cables 9
1.4 Auxiliary Sensors 11
1.5 UV biofouling control (500m Only) 11
1.7 Pressure Ratings 12
2 Getting Started 13
2.1 Serial (MCBH) vs USB-C connection - What’s the difference? 13
2.2 Deployment workflow 13
2.3 Getting started with Sailfish (USB-C or Serial Connector) 14
2.4 Getting started with a Serial Terminal 16
2.4.1 Basic Command Line Functionality 17
View information about installed sensors, parameters, and units 17
Streaming live data (MONITORING) 18
Application note on monitor formats 18
Internally Logging Data 19
3 Configuration 20
3.1 Configure with Sailfish 20
3.2 Configure with a terminal 20
3.2.1 Baud Rate 20
3.2.2 Sampling Settings 20
Burst Mode and Single Mode Sampling 20
Burst Averaging 22
Sleep Mode 23
3.2.3 Monitor Modes 24
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3.2.4 Derived Parameters 26
3.2.5 UV Antifouling 26
3.2.6 Data Logging 27
3.2.7 Help 27
4 Contact AML 28
Service 28
Sales 28
5 Appendix A - Full command list 29
5.1 Sampling commands 29
5.2 Monitor Configurations and commands 30
5.3 Log File Format/Monitor Output 31
5.4 UV Antifouling 32
5.5 Data Logging 33
5.6 Help 33
5.7 Communication commands 33
5.8 Sensor commands 34
5.9 System commands 34
5.10 GPS commands 34
5.11 Power commands 35
6 Appendix B - Output Formats 36
6.1 Column-Based Format 36
6.2 AMLx Format 36
7 Appendix C - Calculated Parameters 39
8 Appendix D - Equipping an Instrument 40
8.1 X2Change™ Sensors 40
8.1.1 Removing Sensors 41
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8.1.2 Installing Sensors 42
8.2 Seals and Plugs 42
9 Appendix E - Long Term Storage Recommendations 43
10 Appendix F - Warranty Statement 44
AML Warranty Policy: New Product (Instrumentation) 44
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1 Introduction
The AML-3 series of instruments is a configurable family of multiparameter sondes designed for
a wide range of data collection applications. The ‘3’ designation refers to the number of sensors
that may be simultaneously installed on the instrument’s endcap. One additional sensor may be
connected externally, allowing up to 4 sensors in total.
There are two primary configurations of instruments in the AML-3 family: the AML-3 LGR, a
self-powered instrument designed for profiling applications, and the AML-3 RT, an externally
powered instrument intended for Real Time applications. While nearly identical in size and form
factor, the two 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.
Real-Time instruments (ie. AML-3 RT), in contrast, are designed to stream data while in-situ
(though they have the ability to internally record data as well). 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.
This manual describes the operation of the Real-Time version, the AML-3 RT.
1.1 Instrument Overview
AML-3 instruments are highly customizable and may be equipped with a wide range of
user-specific sensors, functionality, and features. The instrument described here is intended to
be a representative example of a typical setup and therefore may not be identical to the
Reader’s. The Reader is directed to any unit-specific supplementary documentation provided
with their instrument for information on features and functionality not described here.
Figure 1 depicts a typical AML-3 RT arrangement.
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Figure 1: A typical AML-3 RT arrangement. At left,
the 6000m, at right, the 500m.The arrangement
shown here is representative only and may differ
from the Reader’s instrument. Top left image
depicts the recommended deployment orientation -
fixed vertically with the shackle end up.
By default, AML-3 RT instruments come equipped with a shackle, a USB-C connector and a
wet-mate MCBH connector. The shackle has a hole coincident with the axis of the instrument to
facilitate suspension during deployment.
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The instrument end opposite the shackle houses the sensor payload which is mechanically
protected by a thread-on sensor cage. In some configurations the cage may be different lengths
depending on the sensors installed.
Specifications:
Model
500m
6000m
Depth rating
500 meters / 1640 feet
6000 meters / 19685 feet
Materials
Acetal, 316 stainless steel,
titanium, polycarbonate
Acetal, 316 stainless steel, titanium,
polycarbonate
Data storage
30 GB
30 GB
Software
Sailfish
Sailfish
Communication
RS-232 or RS-485 (Factory set)
USB-C
RS-232 or RS-485 (Factory set)
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
2 Cell Internal Battery 21Wh
PC or wall charging over USB
(10W minimum)
8-30 VDC via MCBH connector
Note: External power supply
should be able to support at least
10W output. Please consider
voltage drop when using longer
cables.
2 Cell Internal Battery 21Wh
PC or wall charging over USB (10W
minimum)
8-30 VDC via MCBH connector
Note: External power supply should
be able to support at least 10W
output. Please consider voltage
drop when using longer cables.
Temperature
Operation
Storage
-20 to +45°C
-20 to +60°C
-20 to +45°C
-20 to +60°C
Dimensions
Diameter
Length
7.6 cm / 3.0 in
Short Cage: 33.4 cm / 13.15 in
7.6 cm / 3.0 in
Short Cage: 33.4 cm / 13.15 in
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Weight*
Weight in water*
(SVP set up)
Medium Cage: 39.8 cm / 15.66 in
(CTD set up)
Long Cage: 46.4 cm / 18.26 in
(UV Protected)
1.36 kg / 3.00 lb
.69 kg / 1.52 lb
(SVP set up)
Medium Cage: 39.8 cm / 15.66 in
(CTD set up)
Long Cage: 46.4 cm / 18.26 in (UV
Protected)
2.5 kg / 5.6 lb
1.9 kg / 4.1 lb
*With a medium cage and no sensors, deployed weights will vary
1.2 Internal Battery
While an AML-3 RT instrument must use external power for operation, the instrument does
contain a small rechargeable internal battery. The internal battery is used to retain the time,
date, and configuration information when the instrument is not externally powered. The battery
also helps to provide a graceful shutdown in the event of sudden power loss. The internal
battery is not intended to sustain operation of the instrument.
The battery typically requires a charging-top up when the instrument is first received by the user.
Application of power through the MCBH connector will charge the internal battery. Note that the
instrument body may get warm during charging. This is normal and a result of the
instrument’s fast-charge capability. This behaviour does not occur during typical deployments.
The instrument has the ability to charge it’s internal battery via USB-C connector, but USB-C
ports found on many computer systems do not provide enough current to achieve this. To
charge the instrument through its USB-C port connect the instrument to an appropriate
USB-C-wall wart adapter (minimum 5W charger).
1.3 Connectors and Cables
AML-3 RT instruments come with two connectors:
1. A waterproof MCBH connector.
a. This connector is used to provide external power and serial communications to
the instrument during deployment. The instrument can be factory set to either
RS-232 or RS-485 full duplex. Its typical use is for the transmission of live
measurements during deployment. Note: Internally logged data cannot be
downloaded with this connector (instead, use the USB-C connector).
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b. AML-3 RT instruments typically come packaged with a length of underwater
cable which has an MCBH series connector at one end, and a serial DB9
connector with flying power leads at the other end. This cable provides a means
to communicate serially with the instrument and apply external power in bench
top settings.
c. If a serial communication cable longer than 3 metres is used then it is necessary
to add surge protection.
2. A USB-C connector with waterproof cover.
a. This connector provides power to the instrument (when connected to a
compatible USB port) and also provides high speed communications. This
connector is used for data transfer (downloading internally logged data) and
updating firmware. When connected via USB-C the provided software, Sailfish,
must be used to interact with the instrument. 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.
b. AML-3 RT instruments come with a USB-C to USB-A adapter to maximize PC
compatibility. The instrument may also be connected to any USB-C port using a
standard USB-C interconnect cable, though cable length should not exceed 1m.
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USB ports on computers frequently lack the ability to provide sufficient power to reliably operate
the instrument. This causes the instrument to divide its power load between the USB-C
connector and its internal battery, resulting in a drain of the internal battery. It is recommended
to monitor the battery percentage to ensure the instrument battery remains charged.
Alternatively, provide external power to the instrument via the MCBH connector even when
using the USB-C connection.
1.4 Auxiliary Sensors
It is possible for AML-3 instruments to be equipped with sensors which are not installed on the
instrument sensor endcap, such as Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and PAR sensors. 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. 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 does 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 guard.
1.5 UV biofouling control (500m Only)
AML RT instruments are compatible with AML’s UV biofouling control technology. The
embodiment of this technology is a streetlamp-shaped device installed adjacent to the sensors
which blankets the sensor payloads with UV, providing antifouling protection. All surfaces with a
direct line of sight to the emitting ‘head’ of the device will receive biofouling protection, including
the externally mounted auxiliary sensors. The UV biofouling system is a factory-equipped
option.
UV-equipped instruments are factory-set to emit UV-C light on a pre-programmed duty cycle
immediately on instrument powerup. Do not expose bare skin or eyes to the emitted light.
For most applications, AML-3 RT instruments are shipped from the factory with all sensors
pre-installed and configured.
1.6 Indicator LED Flash Patterns
The instrument is equipped with a multi-colour indicator LED, located adjacent to the shackle.
The tables below describe the pattern and colour indications.
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Steady
(solid on)
Single flash
- - - - - -
Smooth transition
Rapid flash
Green
Ready
Battery good
Logging
Battery good
-
-
Red
Ready
Battery low
Logging
Battery low
-
-
Orange/ White/
Blue
-
-
Boot up or boot
down sequence.
-
White
-
-
-
Error state
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 500 m
instrument equipped with a 6000 dBar pressure sensor is limited to deployments of 500 m depth
or less. Similarly, a 6000 m instrument equipped with a 500 dBar pressure sensor is also limited
to deployments of 500 m depth or less.
The instrument pressure rating is identified on the end of the instrument, adjacent to the
shackle. Typical ratings for AML-3 RT instruments are 500m and 6000m.
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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 Serial (MCBH) vs USB-C connection - What’s the difference?
Serial and USB-C connections provide equivalent capabilities - both connection types allow for
instrument configuration, access to command line, ability to stream data etc. However, there are
two features which are unique to the USB-C connection:
1. Firmware updates may only be done over USB-C (via Sailfish).
2. Data logged on the instrument (if configured to log data) can only be downloaded by
USB-C.
Generally speaking USB-C use should be reserved for clean, dry environments like labs and
offices. In the field, the serial (MCBH) connector should be used exclusively as it is more
physically robust and impervious to saltwater. It is also superior for the application of external
power.
When using Sailfish, either connection type may be used (Sailfish supports both). When using a
Serial Terminal (such as Real Term, Tera Term, etc), the serial connector should be used.
2.2 Deployment workflow
There are multiple means of communicating with an AML-3 RT instrument. Generally speaking,
the MCBH connector is used in the field, either during deployments or in wet environments. The
USB-C connector is generally used in lab settings, either to update firmware or download
logged data.
First-time users of an AML-3 RT instrument are encouraged to familiarize themselves with
operation by following the workflow described below:
1. On a dry workbench apply external power to the instrument (8-30 VCD via the MCBH
connector) and connect the instrument to a PC using the USB-C connector (the
instrument will connect to a computer with solely the USB cable as well). Use the
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provided software interface to explore the instrument configuration options. Details on
this process are described in the following section: Getting Started with Sailfish via
USB-C Connection.
2. After configuration, verify the desired functionality in an ‘as-deployed’ state by
connecting to a serial terminal via the MCBH connector and streaming live data with the
instrument submerged in a saltwater bath. This process is described in the following
section: Getting Started with Serial Communications.
3. If the instrument is configured to internally log data, conduct a post-deployment data
retrieval by removing the instrument from the saltwater bath and re-connecting it to the
provided interface software via its USB-C connection. Use the software to download the
logged files. Note that the USB-C connection must be used to download logged
data.
2.3 Getting started with Sailfish (USB-C or Serial Connector)
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 easily
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 and supports
both USB-C and RS-232 connections. Advanced commands not accessible via the GUI exist
and can be applied via command line. Refer to section Configuring an Instrument in this
document for more details.
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To use Sailfish to configure the AML-3 RT instrument, follow the procedure described below:
1. Download the Sailfish install file from the website (or provided USB thumb drive) and
follow the on-screen installation instructions. Sailfish is compatible with Windows 7, 8,
and 10.
2. Physically connect the instrument to the PC via the included serial cable or the included
USB-C cable. If using the serial cable, be sure to apply 8-30 VDC to the flying leads. The
instrument will typically take about 10 seconds to boot up upon the application of
external power.
3. Start Sailfish and wait for the software to load.
4. If you open Sailfish before connecting your instrument you will need to click on the
‘Refresh’ button for your instrument to appear.
5. If recognition is successful, Sailfish will display an instrument tile with serial number in
the Devices tab. Select the corresponding tile, then press ‘Connect’ at the bottom of the
tab to establish a connection.
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6. Click the gear icon on the instrument tile (top left corner of the tile) to open the
Configuration page. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the instrument.
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..
7. The user is encouraged to explore the Instrument Settings page to familiarize
themselves with typical settings.
8. A common step 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 simply unplug the USB-C/serial cable or click the Disconnect
button.
2.4 Getting started with a Serial Terminal
While a Sailfish provides a user-friendly means of interacting with the instrument in a benchtop
environment, communication with a deployed instrument must be conducted via serial
connection through the MCBH connector. This connection type provides a command-line means
of configuring the instrument and streaming live measurements.
The command prompt also allows the use of advanced commands not available in Sailfish.
To connect to the instrument and establish serial communication:
1. Insert one end of the wet-mateable cable into the MCBH connector of the instrument.
Connect the DB9 into the computer’s serial port (or use a USB-RS232 adapter).
2. Apply 8-30V to the flying leads of the wet-mateable connector cable. The instrument will
commence it’s boot sequence. Typical boot time is approximately 10 seconds.
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3. If the internal battery is low, the instrument may begin to charge. This may result in the
instrument body warming up. Note that the internal battery will not support stand-alone
operation of the instrument. Use external power when deploying the instrument.
4. Use a Serial Terminal to open the appropriate COM port and establish communication
with the instrument. The default baud is 115200 (8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit).
Sending a carriage return (enter key) will land the instrument at prompt.
2.4.1 Basic Command Line Functionality
The commands described in this section are intended to provide an overview of basic
functionality familiarize the user. There are many commands available, however, and the reader
is directed to the Appendix or Configuration section of this document for further details.
A list of commands is available by issuing the command
>HELP
View information about installed sensors, parameters, and units
To see information about the installed sensors, issue the command:
>DISPLAY SENSORS
[SensorMetaData]
Columns=Port,Model,SerialNumber,Firmware,Parameter,Units,CalibrationDate,CalibrationTime,Accuracy,RangeMin,Ra
ngeMax
[SensorData]
1,CT.Xchange,450801,,Cond,mS/cm,2020-03-28,11:47:47,0.002,0,56
1,CT.Xchange,450801,,TempCT,C,2020-03-27,23:31:03,0.001,-5,45
2,P.X2,306207,1.00.1,Pressure,dbar,2020-04-28,11:28:06,0.007,0,48
3,Turbidity,600342,1.01.0,Turbidity,NTU,2020-05-05,12:12:12,0.000,0,0
4,SV.X2,206261,2.00.0,SV,m/s,2000-01-01,16:27:25,0.010,1375,1625
5,Idronaut pH,750105,1.00,pH,pH,2019-10-18,13:51:04,0.087,0,0
6,SVT.X2,220281,2.00.1,SV,m/s,2000-01-01,00:00:00,0.020,1375,1625
6,SVT.X2,220281,2.00.1,TempSVT,C,2000-01-01,00:00:00,0.003,-2,35
[MeasurementMetadata]
Columns=Date,Time,Cond,TempCT,Pressure,Turbidity,SV,pH,SV,TempSVT,UV,Depth
Units=yyyy-mm-dd,hh:mm:ss.ss,mS/cm,C,dbar,NTU,m/s,pH,m/s,C,Status,m
The Sensor Meta Data section provides information on how to interpret the results of the Sensor
Data table immediately following. For reference, Port refers to the sensor port that a sensor is
installed into on the instrument endcap (6 total ports in total on an AML-RT endcap). Auxiliary
sensors (such as DO and PAR) will be listed as being installed on Port 7 or 8.
In this example there are 6 sensors installed on the instrument. Port 1 (as labelled on the
endcap) has a combined Conductivity and Temperature sensor installed, so it is depicted as two
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sensors - one with a Cond parameter, and one with a TempCT parameter. Likewise, Port 6 has
a combined sound velocity and temperature sensor installed.
The Measurement Meta Data section provides information on how to interpret the columns of
measurements when the instrument is streaming data.
Streaming live data (MONITORING)
Live data streaming is referred to as monitoring. To commence monitoring, issue the command
>MONITOR
2038-01-19,03:14:07.00,51.281,20.867,0.23,-1.19,1526.593,6.31,1526.677,10.000,0,0.23
2038-01-19,03:14:07.00,51.280,20.867,0.23,-1.17,1526.595,6.31,1526.677,10.000,0,0.23
2038-01-19,03:14:07.00,51.280,20.868,0.23,-1.13,1526.595,6.31,1526.677,10.000,0,0.23
2038-01-19,03:14:07.00,51.282,20.866,0.23,-1.14,1526.594,6.31,1526.677,10.000,0,0.23
2038-01-19,03:14:07.00,51.279,20.866,0.23,-1.13,1526.595,6.32,1526.677,10.000,0,0.23
2038-01-19,03:14:07.00,51.279,20.868,0.23,-1.14,1526.594,6.31,1526.677,10.000,0,0.23
2038-01-19,03:14:07.00,51.280,20.868,0.23,-1.16,1526.595,6.32,1526.677,10.000,0,0.23
2038-01-19,03:14:07.00,51.278,20.867,0.23,-1.12,1526.594,6.31,1526.676,10.000,0,0.23
2038-01-19,03:14:07.00,51.281,20.867,0.23,-1.06,1526.594,6.31,1526.676,10.000,0,0.23
...
The monitor command invokes the streaming of sensor measurements and derived parameters
if configured to do so. The instrument will continue to stream data indefinitely until manually
halted by command. Monitoring is halted by sending a carriage return (pressing enter).
The instrument can be configured to cease monitoring only on transmission of specific key
sequence, referred to as ROBUST MONITOR MODE. Refer to the Configuration section of this
document for details.
The Measurement Meta Data table contextualizes the provided data columns with respective
parameters and units. In this case, column 3 (first measurement 51.281) is for parameter Cond
(conductivity) in units of mS/cm.
Monitor behaviour and output format is configurable.Refer to the Configuration section of this
document for more details.
Application note on monitor formats
While columns of data are easy to read by humans, in instances where the streaming data will
be interpreted by machines (ie. other logging devices, software, telemetry modules, etc), users
are strongly encouraged to utilize AML’s extensible format, referred to as AMLx. Refer to
Appendix B for more information.
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Internally Logging Data
Data logging is distinct from monitoring; the two operations may happen independently from
each other. An instrument may log data without monitoring, monitor without logging, or do both
simultaneously.
Data logging can commence in multiple ways:
1. In some instances, the instrument is configured to immediately begin logging data when
it detects water immersion. Immersion detection is triggered when measurements from
an installed conductivity or sound velocity sensor exceeds a lower threshold (typically
close to 0). For example, the default behaviour is for a powered instrument to begin
logging data immediately upon immersion in water regardless of command line state
(monitoring or not). The indicator light, if installed, will flash green.
2. Alternatively, logging can be controlled manually by entering the command
>SET LOGMODE MANUAL
And sending the command
>LOGON
Logging invoked in this method may be ceased by sending the command
>LOGOFF
In this instance, logging will commence independent of in-water status.
3. Logging can be linked to monitor mode - ie, logging occurs whenever monitor mode is
engaged. To link logging to monitor, issue the command
>SET MONITOR LOG YES
The instrument will commence logging whenever a monitor command is issued.
While the output format of monitor mode is configurable, log file format is fixed; however data
between the two is generally identical. For example, sensor measurement and derived
parameters that are visible in a monitor sentence will also be included in the log file. Logging
and monitoring will also use identical sample rates.
The instrument will create a new log file every time logging commences.
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3 Configuration
Commands can be sent to the instrument via command prompt, or with Sailfish when connected
over serial or USB. In general terms, Sailfish provides a more user-friendly method of
configuring an instrument, but command line-based configuration provides access to a wider
range of configuration.
3.1 Configure with Sailfish
To configure with Sailfish please reference the Getting Started with Sailfish section.
3.2 Configure with a terminal
Advanced commands can be sent to the instrument via command prompt when connected via
serial connection. The commands described in this section are not an exhaustive list. Refer to
Appendix A for more details.
3.2.1 Baud Rate
Changing the instrument’s baud rate will disconnect the terminal from the instrument and will
require the terminal baud rate to be modified accordingly.
Command
Description
set baud <baudrate>
Set the serial baud rate for the instrument. All standard baud
rates between 9600 and 115200 are accepted. Default is
115200.
Note: This command takes immediate effect. Users must
change the BAUD rate of their terminal program.
3.2.2 Sampling Settings
Burst Mode and Single Mode Sampling
The instrument can be configured in two different sampling modes: Single and Burst. In Single
Mode, the instrument will log/output single samples at a configured interval. Burst Mode, in
contrast, provides groups of samples at configured intervals. For example, an instrument in
burst mode may be configured to output (and log) 6 samples at a rate of 2 samples/sec on 30
seconds intervals.
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