Biospherical Instruments Inc QSP-170BD User manual

QSP-170BD
Two Channel Digital Readout System
and
Power Supply
User's Manual
Biospherical Instruments Inc.
5340 Riley Street
San Diego, CA 92110
[phone]
FAX [phone]
Version 003019UA.DOC
Date Printed: 04/18/00

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Biospherical Instruments Inc. ii
NOTICE
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.
BIOSPHERICAL INSTRUMENTS MAKES NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND WITH REGARD TO
THIS MATERIAL, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Biospherical
Instruments shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential
damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this material.
This document contains proprietary information which is protected by copyright. All rights are
reserved. No part of this document may be photocopied, reproduced, or translated into another
language without the prior written consent of Biospherical Instruments Inc.
Copyright ã1993 by Biospherical Instruments Inc.
IBMâis a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corp.
IBM PC is a product of International Business Machines Corp.
MSDOS and Excel are products of Microsoft Corporation
Document 003019UA.DOC
First Edition November, 1994

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BIOSPHERICAL INSTRUMENTS INC. iii
LIMITED WARRANTY
BIOSPHERICAL INSTRUMENTS INC. warrants this QSP-170BD (the Product) to be in good
working order for a period of one (1) year parts and good for a period of ninety (90) days labor
from the date of purchase. Should this Product fail to be in good working order at any time
during the above stated warranty period, Biospherical Instruments Inc. will, at its option, repair
or replace this Product at no additional charge except as set forth below. Repair parts and
replacement Products will be furnished on an exchange basis and will be either reconditioned or
new. All replacement parts and Products become the property of Biospherical Instruments Inc.
This limited warranty does not include service to repair damage to the Product resulting from
accident, disaster, misuse, abuse or non-Biospherical Instruments Inc. modification of the
product.
Limited warranty service may be obtained by delivering the Product during the warranty period
to Biospherical Instruments Inc. at its San Diego, California, Service Center, showing proof of
purchase. If this Product is delivered by mail, you agree to insure the Product or assume risk of
loss or damage in transit; to prepay shipping charges to the San Diego, California, Service
Center; to use the original shipping container or equivalent; and to pay for return shipping
charges.
ALL EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES FOR THIS PRODUCT INCLUDING THE
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE ABOVE WARRANTY PERIOD, AND NO
WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, WILL APPLY AFTER THIS PERIOD.
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY
LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
IF THIS PRODUCT IS NOT IN GOOD WORKING ORDER AS WARRANTED ABOVE, YOUR
SOLE REMEDY SHALL BE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS PROVIDED ABOVE. IN NO
EVENT WILL BIOSPHERICAL INSTRUMENTS INC. BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR ANY
DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY LOST PROFITS, LOST SAVINGS OR OTHER INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE SUCH
PRODUCT, EVEN IF BIOSPHERICAL INSTRUMENTS INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. NOR WILL BIOSPHERICAL INSTRUMENTS INC. BE
LIABLE FOR ANY CLAIM BY ANY OTHER PARTY.
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS, SO THE ABOVE
LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO HAVE
OTHER RIGHTS WHICH MAY VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INITIAL INSPECTION, SHIPPING AND STORAGE .........................................v
PRECAUTIONS.................................................................................................v
1.0 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................1
2.0 SPECIFICATIONS......................................................................................2
3.0 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ..................................................................3
3.1 OPERATING THE QSP-170BD.......................................................3
3.1.A. Switch Functions ..............................................................3
3.2.B. Rear Panel Inputs/Outputs ...............................................4
3.2 MAINTENANCE...............................................................................4
3.3 BATTERY SELECTION...................................................................5
APPENDIX: THEORY OF OPERATION AND TECHNICAL DRAWINGS........A-1
THEORY OF OPERATION.....................................................................A-1
TECHNICAL DRAWINGS.......................................................................A-1

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BIOSPHERICAL INSTRUMENTS INC.v
INITIAL INSPECTION, SHIPPING AND STORAGE
This QSP-170BD was carefully inspected mechanically and electrically, and was optically
calibrated before shipment. It should be free of mars or scratches and in perfect operating
condition upon receipt. To confirm this, the instrument should be inspected for physical
damage incurred in transit. If the instrument was damaged in transit, file a claim with the
carrier. Check the instrument for proper operation as outlined in the following sections. If there
is damage or deficiency, see the Warranty in the preface of this manual.
WARNING: Read Section 3.0 on Operation before attempting to operate or
disassemble the instrument.
Retain the original packing material for shipment to the factory. The instrument must be
carefully wrapped and cushioned with appropriate packing material before it is shipped. If the
original material is unavailable, obtain a heavy-duty cardboard or wood shipping box and firmly
pack the instrument on all sides with at least 2" of Styrofoam or equivalent packing material.
Before returning the instrument for maintenance or recalibration, contact the factory for further
shipping instructions.
PRECAUTIONS
PROTECT THE INTEGRATED CIRCUITS. A person walking across a carpet on a dry day can
generate a static charge of over 10,000 volts. The resulting discharge can destroy an
integrated circuit. Therefore, use standard anti-static equipment any time the QSP-170BD is
opened and the components are removed.
MAINTAIN PROPER CALIBRATION. The proper conversion of the voltages for each sensor to
engineering units is determined by data contained on the calibration certificate issued with each
instrument, and updated on subsequent recalibrations. The calibration factors for your sensors
have been set in the QSP-170BD. It is the ultimately your responsibility to see that the
calibration factors are reset whenever an instrument is recalibrated. Annual recalibration of
your entire system is recommended.
CARRY SPARE BATTERIES. For extended operations, it is prudent to carry a spare battery.

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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The Biospherical Instruments QSP-170BD Two Channel Digital Readout System acts as a
digital display and power supply for the following BSI instrument models: QSR-240, QSP-200,
MRP-200, MCP-200, QSL-100/101 and QSP-200D. Up to two instruments may be attached to
the QSP-170BD at one time. One must be a surface (reference) sensor, and the other must be
an underwater sensor. The signals from attached sensors are available for monitoring on the
digital display, which uses a liquid crystal 3½ digit display (maximum reading 1999) to provide
visual readout output of the sensors during operation. Data are also available as analog signals
at recorder outputs for processing with a computer-controlled data acquisition system.
This manual describes operation and installation procedures for the QSP-170BD. It should be
read carefully in conjunction with the attached sensor manuals, as there are several
precautions that should be taken to ensure the accurate performance of your instrument
system.

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2.0 SPECIFICATIONS
CALIBRATION: The QSP-170BD is set according to the current calibration factors for your
instruments. The QSP-170BD should be reset whenever the instruments are recalibrated.
Annual recalibration is recommended.
POWER REQUIREMENTS: Two "D" type batteries, located in the right front of the QSP-
170BD, supply power to the QSR-240, QSP-200D, and QSP-170BD readout. External power
may be supplied by a 12-18 volt DC power source at approximately 100 mA.
BATTERY LIFE: Refer to Section 3.3 - Battery Selection for the life expectancy of various
types of batteries at various temperatures.
DISPLAY: 7 digit LED readout and simultaneous recorder output for all channels.
OUTPUT:
•Signals: Sensor (underwater sensor), Reference (surface sensor), and Depth
(from QSP-200D).
•Scale Factors: For Sensor and Reference, typical calibrated output is 1
Volt = 1017quanta/(cm2/sec). For Depth, 10 mV = 1 meter.
•Impedance: 1 kOhm.

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3.0 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
3.1 OPERATING THE QSP-170BD
The QSP-170BD controls the functions and data collection of all attached instruments. The
following are instructions on the digital display’s functions, inputs, outputs and connection ports.
3.1.A. Switch Functions
1. POWER: This switch has three positions: OFF, ON, and TEST. TEST is for testing
the battery under normal load. During a test, the displayed reading should be
greater than 210 (on any range). For normal operation the power switch should be
in the ON position. Nominal warm-up time for the system is two minutes.
2. DISPLAY: This switch has three positions: REFERENCE, REMOTE and DEPTH.
REFERENCE displays the output of the surface sensor, which must be plugged into
the REF jack at the rear of the instrument. REMOTE displays the output of the
underwater sensor, which must be plugged into the REM jack. The sensors must be
connected to the proper inputs or their calibration will be void. The DEPTH position
of the switch displays the output (in meters) of the depth transducer on the QSP-
200D underwater sensor.
NOTE: The recorder (data acquisition) outputs at the rear of the QSP-170BD
digital display are not affected by either the position of the DISPLAY or LIGHT
RANGE switches.
3. LIGHT RANGE: This switch determines the gain of the amplifier that drives the
digital display when the display switch is on either the Reference or Remote setting.
The RANGE switch DOES NOT affect the DEPTH readings. The depth circuit has
a fixed resolution of 0.1 meters. The decimal point in the display will shift to indicate
the correct units for each range.
4. DISPLAY: The display directly reads out in quanta/(cm2/sec) for both attached light
sensors. A flashing display or display with missing digits indicates an overload
condition and the range switch must be adjusted accordingly. Depth readout is in
meters.
5. TIME CONSTANT: In cases where there are transient light changes in the
environment and an average reading is desired, set the Time Constant Switch to the
LONG position. The light reading will then have an RC time constant of 6 sec.
Normally, in the short mode, RC=300 msec.
6. NULL CONTROLS: Small zero offsets may be corrected by adjusting the front
panel "trimpots" (null controls), which are accessible by a small screwdriver. Cover
the Teflon collectors and take a dark (zero) reading. Adjust the null controls
accordingly. If it is impossible to "zero" the sensors then the sensors should be
returned to Biospherical Instruments for recalibration.
3.1.B. Rear Panel Inputs/Outputs

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BIOSPHERICAL INSTRUMENTS INC.4
1. REF JACK: This is for connection of a reference (QSR-240) sensor or laboratory
sensor (QSL-100P). If such a sensor is purchased subsequent to purchase of the
170 display unit, the QSP-170BD must be returned to the factory for recalibration to
match the new sensor.
2. REM JACK: This is for connection of an underwater scalar irradiance sensor.
3. POWER: This is for using an external power supply with the 170BD and its sensors.
Nominal power requirement 12 to 18 volts DC at 100 mA (center contact +, outer at
ground). It is recommended that any external power supply be "floated" when using
the underwater sensor to avoid ground loops due to the instrument housing being
connected to instrument ground (on recent models, after 1992, the case is AC
grounded through a 1uF capacitor).
4. REM OUTPUT "BNC"-TYPE RECORDER OUTPUT: The calibrated (1
volt=1017quanta/(cm2/sec)) output comes from the sensor plugged into the REM
jack. It is not affected by the settings on the display or range switches. The voltage
is output through a nominal 5 kohm current-limiting resistor and may be used to
drive a high impedance data acquisition system or analog recorder.
NOTE: It is recommended that any external device connected to this output
have a "floating" ground to prevent ground loops when used with an
underwater sensor since the housing of the QSP-200D sensor and the shield
on the underwater cable are connected to the instrument "ground". Adapter
cables are available from many sources to connect the BNC jacks to other
types of cables.
5. REF OUTPUT "BNC" TYPE RECORDER OUTPUT: This calibrated output (1
volt=1017quanta/(cm2/sec)) is from the sensor plugged into the REF jack. It is not
affected by the settings of the display or range switches. It also is connected
through a 5 Kohm resistor for external recording.
6. "DEPTH": This is the depth signal output from the pressure transducer internal to
the QSP-200D sensor. The scale factor is 10mV/meter. The output is buffered by a
5 Kohm resistor. This output is not affected by the settings on either the range or
function switches.
3.2 MAINTENANCE
The QSP-170BD requires no user maintenance, other than battery replacement. However, it
must be reset whenever attached instruments are recalibrated.
3.3 BATTERY SELECTION
The QSP-170BD uses two readily available "D" cells. Various types of batteries are available
but each has different cost, life and temperature qualities. Below is a summary of commonly
available types of batteries and their respective properties.

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•ALKALINE-MANGANESE DIOXIDE: The preferred type to use, but also fairly expensive.
Excellent shelf life (typically, 80% of original capacity after four years on the shelf). This
type of battery features a high energy density, gradual discharge over most of the useful
life, very good low temperature operation, and good leakage characteristics.
•MERCURIC OXIDE: The best battery to use under all conditions except low temperatures.
High cost makes alkaline batteries generally preferable.
•NICKEL-CADMIUM: Very good low temperature characteristics but only 30 to 50% the
capacity of alkaline batteries. Air charge retention after charging but should be used within
several days of charging. Ideal for use when the instrument is used for short periods (8
hours), with full charge cycle between uses. Several makes of chargers readily available.
NOTE: The optional BAT-170, Battery Eliminator, will not charge Ni-Cd batteries.
•"HEAVY-DUTY" CARBON-ZINC (Zinc-chloride): Almost the same lifetime as the alkaline at
moderate temperatures but less expensive. Slightly subject to leakage. Not recommended
for low temperature operation.
•CARBON-ZINC: Least expensive. Approximately half the capacity of the "heavy-duty" type.
Subject to leakage. Do not leave any batteries in instrument for storage. Poor temperature
operation. Recommended only for above 10°C operation, periods shorter than 8 hours.

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APPENDIX: THEORY OF OPERATION AND TECHNICAL DRAWINGS
THEORY OF OPERATION
The signals from attached sensors are available for monitoring on the digital display. They also
are available at the recorder outputs for processing with a computer-controlled data acquisition
system. Changes in surface irradiance (sensed by the reference sensor) may be used to
correct underwater irradiance values for percent of surface plots of light versus depth along with
absolute light level plots. An X-Y recorder can also be directly connected to the recorder
outputs for a direct plot of irradiance versus depth.
The QSP-170BD display is calibrated to directly read out in quanta/cm2/sec incident on the
attached sensor’s collecting sphere. When an underwater sensor is connected to the "remote"
input, the calibration in the remote position is corrected for the "immersion effect" (which causes
different collection efficiencies for wet and dry use) so the sensor gives correct readings in
water. It is important to note this will cause an underwater sensor to give a higher (and
incorrect) reading when placed in air alongside a surface sensor. This is normal and the ratio
between the readings should be fixed provided the fields of view for both sensors are the same.
Similarly, surface sensors are calibrated for use in air and use underwater would yield incorrect
readings.
TECHNICAL DRAWINGS
TITLE NUMBER/TYPE
QSP-170D Schematic 002615E
*A note regarding Biospherical Instruments Inc. drawing and part numbering scheme. BSI uses
a system which integrates part and drawing numbers for those parts or assemblies that we
specify or build. End items have a slightly different numbering scheme. A standard BSI part
number has a 9-digit alpha-numerical code. It consists of a two digit class code prefix, a six
digit sequence number suffix, and a single letter revision code. An example would be:
05.123456C. The drawings associated with this part consist of the same six digit suffix number
but have two appended letters. The first indicates the drawing type (electronic schematic (E),
assembly diagram (A), mechanical drawing, etc.), and the second letter is the revision level.
For example, if the sub-assembly 05.123456C was a printed circuit assembly, it should have at
least two drawings associated with it, 123456AC and 123456EC, which are the assembly
diagram and electronic schematic, respectively, for revision level C (i.e., third revision). In
drawings which include components numbered in this way, the revision level for the
components is omitted so that the drawing does not need to be changed when a component is
revised (the definition of a revision is that the new part is functionally and mechanically
interchangeable with the original part).

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