Campbell TB4 User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
TB4 and TB4MM Rain Gages
Revision: 4/16
Copyright © 1995-2016
Campbell Scientific, Inc.

Limited Warranty
“Products manufactured by CSI are warranted by CSI to be free from defects in
materials and workmanship under normal use and service for twelve months
from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified in the corresponding
product manual. (Product manuals are available for review online at
www.campbellsci.com.) Products not manufactured by CSI, but that are resold
by CSI, are warranted only to the limits extended by the original manufacturer.
Batteries, fine-wire thermocouples, desiccant, and other consumables have no
warranty. CSI’s obligation under this warranty is limited to repairing or
replacing (at CSI’s option) defective Products, which shall be the sole and
exclusive remedy under this warranty. The Customer assumes all costs of
removing, reinstalling, and shipping defective Products to CSI. CSI will return
such Products by surface carrier prepaid within the continental United States of
America. To all other locations, CSI will return such Products best way CIP
(port of entry) per Incoterms ® 2010. This warranty shall not apply to any
Products which have been subjected to modification, misuse, neglect, improper
service, accidents of nature, or shipping damage. This warranty is in lieu of all
other warranties, expressed or implied. The warranty for installation services
performed by CSI such as programming to customer specifications, electrical
connections to Products manufactured by CSI, and Product specific training, is
part of CSI's product warranty. CSI EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS AND
EXCLUDES ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY
OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. CSI hereby disclaims,
to the fullest extent allowed by applicable law, any and all warranties and
conditions with respect to the Products, whether express, implied or
statutory, other than those expressly provided herein.”

Assistance
Products may not be returned without prior authorization. The following
contact information is for US and international customers residing in countries
served by Campbell Scientific, Inc. directly. Affiliate companies handle repairs
for customers within their territories. Please visit www.campbellsci.com to
determine which Campbell Scientific company serves your country.
To obtain a Returned Materials Authorization (RMA), contact CAMPBELL
SCIENTIFIC, INC., phone [phone]. After an application engineer
determines the nature of the problem, an RMA number will be issued. Please
write this number clearly on the outside of the shipping container. Campbell
Scientific’s shipping address is:
CAMPBELL SCIENTIFIC, INC.
RMA#_____
815 West 1800 North
Logan, Utah 84321-1784
For all returns, the customer must fill out a “Statement of Product Cleanliness
and Decontamination” form and comply with the requirements specified in it.
The form is available from our website at www.campbellsci.com/repair. A
completed form must be either emailed to [e-mail] or faxed to
[phone]. Campbell Scientific is unable to process any returns until we
receive this form. If the form is not received within three days of product
receipt or is incomplete, the product will be returned to the customer at the
customer’s expense. Campbell Scientific reserves the right to refuse service on
products that were exposed to contaminants that may cause health or safety
concerns for our employees.

Safety
DANGER — MANY HAZARDS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH INSTALLING, USING, MAINTAINING, AND WORKING ON OR AROUND
TRIPODS, TOWERS, AND ANY ATTACHMENTS TO TRIPODS AND TOWERS SUCH AS SENSORS, CROSSARMS, ENCLOSURES,
ANTENNAS, ETC. FAILURE TO PROPERLY AND COMPLETELY ASSEMBLE, INSTALL, OPERATE, USE, AND MAINTAIN TRIPODS,
TOWERS, AND ATTACHMENTS, AND FAILURE TO HEED WARNINGS, INCREASES THE RISK OF DEATH, ACCIDENT, SERIOUS
INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, AND PRODUCT FAILURE. TAKE ALL REASONABLE PRECAUTIONS TO AVOID THESE HAZARDS.
CHECK WITH YOUR ORGANIZATION'S SAFETY COORDINATOR (OR POLICY) FOR PROCEDURES AND REQUIRED PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT PRIOR TO PERFORMING ANY WORK.
Use tripods, towers, and attachments to tripods and towers only for purposes for which they are designed. Do not exceed design limits.
Be familiar and comply with all instructions provided in product manuals. Manuals are available at www.campbellsci.com or by
telephoning [phone] (USA). You are responsible for conformance with governing codes and regulations, including safety
regulations, and the integrity and location of structures or land to which towers, tripods, and any attachments are attached. Installation
sites should be evaluated and approved by a qualified engineer. If questions or concerns arise regarding installation, use, or
maintenance of tripods, towers, attachments, or electrical connections, consult with a licensed and qualified engineer or electrician.
General
•Prior to performing site or installation work, obtain required approvals and permits. Comply
with all governing structure-height regulations, such as those of the FAA in the USA.
•Use only qualified personnel for installation, use, and maintenance of tripods and towers, and
any attachments to tripods and towers. The use of licensed and qualified contractors is highly
recommended.
•Read all applicable instructions carefully and understand procedures thoroughly before
beginning work.
•Wear a hardhat and eye protection, and take other appropriate safety precautions while
working on or around tripods and towers.
•Do not climb tripods or towers at any time, and prohibit climbing by other persons. Take
reasonable precautions to secure tripod and tower sites from trespassers.
•Use only manufacturer recommended parts, materials, and tools.
Utility and Electrical
•You can be killed or sustain serious bodily injury if the tripod, tower, or attachments you are
installing, constructing, using, or maintaining, or a tool, stake, or anchor, come in contact with
overhead or underground utility lines.
•Maintain a distance of at least one-and-one-half times structure height, 20 feet, or the distance
required by applicable law, whichever is greater, between overhead utility lines and the
structure (tripod, tower, attachments, or tools).
•Prior to performing site or installation work, inform all utility companies and have all
underground utilities marked.
•Comply with all electrical codes. Electrical equipment and related grounding devices should be
installed by a licensed and qualified electrician.
Elevated Work and Weather
•Exercise extreme caution when performing elevated work.
•Use appropriate equipment and safety practices.
•During installation and maintenance, keep tower and tripod sites clear of un-trained or non-
essential personnel. Take precautions to prevent elevated tools and objects from dropping.
•Do not perform any work in inclement weather, including wind, rain, snow, lightning, etc.
Maintenance
•Periodically (at least yearly) check for wear and damage, including corrosion, stress cracks,
frayed cables, loose cable clamps, cable tightness, etc. and take necessary corrective actions.
•Periodically (at least yearly) check electrical ground connections.
WHILE EVERY ATTEMPT IS MADE TO EMBODY THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF SAFETY IN ALL CAMPBELL SCIENTIFIC PRODUCTS,
THE CUSTOMER ASSUMES ALL RISK FROM ANY INJURY RESULTING FROM IMPROPER INSTALLATION, USE, OR
MAINTENANCE OF TRIPODS, TOWERS, OR ATTACHMENTS TO TRIPODS AND TOWERS SUCH AS SENSORS, CROSSARMS,
ENCLOSURES, ANTENNAS, ETC.

i
Table of Contents
PDF viewers: These page numbers refer to the printed version of this document. Use the
PDF reader bookmarks tab for links to specific sections.
1. Introduction................................................................1
2. Precautions ................................................................1
3. Initial Inspection.........................................................1
3.1 Ships With............................................................................................1
4. QuickStart...................................................................2
5. Overview.....................................................................4
6. Specifications.............................................................4
7. Installation..................................................................5
7.1 Wiring..................................................................................................5
7.2 Datalogger Programming.....................................................................6
7.2.1 PulseCount Instruction..................................................................6
7.3 Siting....................................................................................................7
7.4 Mounting..............................................................................................7
7.5 Leveling ...............................................................................................8
8. Troubleshooting and Maintenance...........................9
8.1 Troubleshooting...................................................................................9
8.2 Maintenance.......................................................................................10
8.2.1 Dismantling for Cleaning............................................................10
8.2.2 Reassembling the TB4................................................................13
8.3Calibration..........................................................................................13
8.3.1 Factory Calibration .....................................................................14
Appendices
A. Importing Short Cut Code Into CRBasic Editor...A-1
B. Example Programs.................................................B-1
B.1 Pulse Channels Examples ................................................................B-1
B.1.1 CR1000 Pulse Channel Example..............................................B-1
B.1.2 CR200(X) Series Pulse Channel Example................................B-1
B.2 Control Port Example Programs ......................................................B-2
B.2.1 CR1000 Control Port Example.................................................B-2
B.2.2 CR200(X) Series Control Port Example...................................B-2

Table of Contents
ii
Figures
7-1. Rain Gage Schematic .......................................................................... 6
7-2. Rain Gage Installation (pole embedded in concrete)........................... 7
7-3. Pedestal Base Options......................................................................... 8
7-4. CM240 Mounting Bracket................................................................... 8
7-5. Main Components of the TB4............................................................. 9
8-1. Components of TB4 Base.................................................................. 10
8-2. Dismantling the Filter/Siphon Assembly .......................................... 11
8-3. Filter/Siphon Assembly..................................................................... 12
8-4. Reassembling the TB4....................................................................... 13
Table
7-1. Wire Color, Wire Function, Datalogger Connection........................... 5
CRBasic Examples
B-1. CR1000 Pulse Channel Example..................................................... B-1
B-2. CR200(X) Series Pulse Channel Example ...................................... B-1
B-3. CR1000 Control Port Example........................................................ B-2
B-4. CR200(X) Series Control Port Example ......................................... B-2

1
TB4 and TB4MM Rain Gages
1. Introduction
The TB4 and TB4MM tipping bucket rain gages funnel rain into a mechanism
that tips when filled to the calibrated level. The TB4 measures in 0.01 in.
increments and the TB4MM measures in 0.2 mm increments. After
measurement, the water drains through two orifices in the base, allowing the
measured water to be collected in a separate container.
Throughout this manual, both models are referred to as the TB4 unless
specified otherwise.
This manual provides information only for CRBasic dataloggers.
It is also compatible with our retired Edlog dataloggers. For Edlog
datalogger support, see an older manual at
www.campbellsci.com/old-manuals or contact a Campbell
Scientific application engineer for assistance.
2. Precautions
•READ AND UNDERSTAND the Safety section at the front of this
manual.
•The rain gages are precision instruments. Please handle them with care.
•The black outer jacket of the cable is Santoprene® rubber. This compound
was chosen for its resistance to temperature extremes, moisture, and UV
degradation. However, this jacket will support combustion in air. It is rated
as slow burning when tested according to U.L. 94 H.B. and will pass
FMVSS302. Local fire codes may preclude its use inside buildings.
3. Initial Inspection
•Upon receipt of the tipping bucket rain gage, inspect the packaging and
contents for damage. File damage claims with the shipping company.
Immediately check package contents against the shipping documentation
(see Section 3.1, Ships With (p. 1)). Contact Campbell Scientific about any
discrepancies.
•The model number and cable length are printed on a label at the
connection end of the cable. Check this information against the shipping
documents to ensure the expected product and cable length are received.
3.1 Ships With
The rain gages ship with:
(1) Allen wrench from original manufacturer
(1) ResourceDVD or instruction manual
NOTE

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
2
4. QuickStart
Short Cut is an easy way to program your datalogger to measure the tipping
bucket rain gage and assign datalogger wiring terminals. Short Cut is available
as a download on www.campbellsci.com and the ResourceDVD. It is included
in installations of LoggerNet, PC200W, PC400, or RTDAQ.
Use the following procedure to get started.
1. Open Short Cut. Click New Program.
2. Select Datalogger Model and Scan Interval (default of 5seconds is OK
for most applications). Click Next.

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
3
3. Under the Available Sensors and Devices list, select the Sensors |
Meteorological | Precipitation | TB4/TB4MM Rain Gauge. Click to
move the selection to the selected device window. The units default to
millimeters, which can be changed by clicking the Rain box and selecting
one of the other options. The default rainfall per tip value of 0.01 inches
should be used if the sensor is a TB4 purchased at Campbell Scientific
(U.S. office). Select 0.2 mm if the sensor is a TB4MM purchased at
Campbell Scientific (U.S. office) or a TB4 purchase at Campbell Scientific
Canada.
4. After selecting the sensor, click Wiring Diagram to see how the sensor is
to be wired to the datalogger. The wiring diagram can be printed now or
after more sensors are added.

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
4
5. Select any other sensors you have, then finish the remaining Short Cut
steps to complete the program. The remaining steps are outlined in Short
Cut Help, which is accessed by clicking on Help | Contents |
Programming Steps.
6. If LoggerNet, PC400,RTDAQ, or PC200W is running on your PC, and the
PC to datalogger connection is active, you can click Finish in Short Cut
and you will be prompted to send the program just created to the
datalogger.
7. If the sensor is connected to the datalogger, as shown in the wiring
diagram in step 4, check the output of the sensor in the datalogger support
software data display to make sure it is making reasonable measurements.
5. Overview
The TB4 and TB4MM tipping bucket rain gages are manufactured by
Hydrological Services Pty. Ltd. (Model TB4) and modified for use with
Campbell Scientific dataloggers.
These rain gages catch rainfall in the 200 mm (7.87 in) diameter collection
funnel. When a full bucket of rainfall is collected, the tipping bucket assembly
tips and activates a reed switch. The switch closure is recorded by the
datalogger pulse channel. When the bucket tips, the water drains out the
screened fittings in the base of the gage.
The rain gages are ideal for locations where intense rainfall events may occur.
They include a siphoning mechanism that allows the rain to flow at a steady
rate regardless of rainfall intensity. The siphon reduces typical rain bucket
errors and produces accurate measurements for up to 50 cm per hour.
The 260-953 Alter-Type Wind Screen can be used with the TB4 and TB4MM
to minimize the effects of strong winds. Siting information and the installation
procedure for this wind screen is provided in our 260-953 manual.
6. Specifications
Features:
•More accurate measurement of high-intensity precipitation
•High precision—tips at 0.01-in. increments
•Compatible with the CWS900-series interfaces, allowing it to be used
in a wireless sensor network
•Compatible with Campbell Scientific CRBasic Dataloggers:
CR200(X) series, CR300 series, CR6 series, CR800 series, CR1000,
CR3000, CR5000, and CR9000(X)
Funnel: 200 mm (7.87 in)
Drain Fittings: Accept 12 mm ID tubing
Measurement Range: 0 to 500 mm/hr
(0 to 19.7 in/hr)
Accuracy: Better than +2% @ 500 mm/hr (19.7 in/hr)

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
5
Resolution: 0.254 mm (0.01 in) TB4
0.008 in (0.2 mm) TB4MM
Environmental Conditions
Temperature: 0 to 70 °C
Humidity: 0 to 100%
Operating Temperature: –20 to 70 °C
Siphon Capacity: 0.3 mm (0.012 in)
Contact: Dual reed switch
Capacity: 12 VA (0.5 A maximum)
Base Material: Thermoplastic
Size
Weight: 2 kg (4.41 lb)
Height: 330 mm (13 in)
Diameter: 200 mm (7.9 in)
7. Installation
If you are programming your datalogger with Short Cut, skip Section 7.1,
Wiring (p. 5), and Section 7.2, Datalogger Programming (p. 6). Short Cut does
this work for you. See Section 4, QuickStart (p. 2), for a Short Cut tutorial.
The 260-953 Alter-Type Wind Screen’s siting information and
installation procedure are provided in our 260-953 manual.
7.1 Wiring
Connections to Campbell Scientific dataloggers are given in TABLE 7-1.
TABLE 7-1. Wire Color, Wire Function, Datalogger Connection
Wire
Color
Wire
Function
Datalogger Connection
Terminal for Pulse
Channel Input
Datalogger Connection
Terminal for Control
Port Input1
Black Rain signal P, P_SW, or U1
(pulse channel) C (control port)
White Rain signal
reference AG or
⏚
(analog ground) 5 V
(on datalogger)
Clear Shield AG or
⏚
(analog ground) AG or
⏚
(analog ground)
1Uchannels are automatically configured by the measurement instruction.
A long cable has an appreciable capacitance between the lines. A built-up
charge could cause arcing when the switch closes, shortening switch life. A
NOTE

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
6
100 Ω resistor is connected in series at the switch to prevent arcing by limiting
the current (FIGURE 7-1). This resistor is installed on all rain gages currently
sold by Campbell Scientific.
Black
White
Clear
100 Ω
FIGURE 7-1. Rain Gage Schematic
7.2 Datalogger Programming
Short Cut is the best source for up-to-date datalogger programming code.
Programming code is needed when:
•Creating a program for a new datalogger installation
•Adding sensors to an existing datalogger program
If your data acquisition requirements are simple, you can probably create and
maintain a datalogger program exclusively with Short Cut. If your data
acquisition needs are more complex, the files that Short Cut creates are a great
source for programming code to start a new program or add to an existing
custom program.
Short Cut cannot edit programs after they are imported and edited
in CRBasic Editor.
A Short Cut tutorial is available in Section 4, QuickStart (p. 2). If you wish to
import Short Cut code into CRBasic Editor to create or add to a customized
program, follow the procedure in Appendix A, Importing Short Cut Code Into
CRBasic Editor (p. A-1).
Programming basics for CRBasic dataloggers are in the following sections.
Complete program examples for select CRBasic dataloggers can be found in
Appendix B, Example Programs (p. B-1). Programming basics and programming
examples for Edlog dataloggers are provided at www.campbellsci.com\old-
manuals.
7.2.1 PulseCount Instruction
The TB4 uses a reed switch for measuring precipitation. The PulseCount()
instruction programs CRBasic dataloggers to measure the reed switch.
PulseCount(Dest,Reps,PChan,PConfig,POption,Mult,Offset)
•Choose Switch Closure (code 2) for the PConfig parameter.
•The Multiplier parameter determines the units in which rainfall is
reported. A multiplier of 0.01 converts the output to inches and a
multiplier of 0.254 converts the output to millimeters.
NOTE

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
7
7.3 Siting
Mount the rain gage in a relatively level location representative of the
surrounding area. Ensure that the orifice is horizontal, at least 1 m above the
ground. The ground surface around the rain gage should be natural vegetation
or gravel, not paved.
Place the rain gage away from objects that obstruct the wind. The distance
should be 2- to 4-times the height of the obstruction.
7.4 Mounting
The TB4 have three equally-spaced pads for mounting the tipping buckets on a
flat surface. Each pad includes a hole that fits a 3/8 inch (M8) bolt. The three
holes form a 234 mm (9.21 in) diameter bolt circle.
Campbell Scientific offers the CM240 mounting bracket for installing and
leveling the TB4. The CM240 may be attached to a CM300-series mounting
pole or to a user-supplied 1.5 inch IPS (1.9 inch OD) unthreaded pipe.
The pole or pipe can be placed directly into a concrete foundation (FIGURE
7-2), or attached to a concrete foundation using J-bolts or self-supporting legs
(FIGURE 7-3). A concrete pad is recommended, but it should not be installed
over large paved or concrete surface.
FIGURE 7-2. Rain Gage Installation (pole embedded in concrete)
61 cm
(24 in)
20.3 cm
(8 in) dia.
CM240
CM310
142 cm (56 in)
mounting pole

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
8
FIGURE 7-3. Pedestal Base Options
7.5 Leveling
After mounting the rain gage, use the following procedure to level it.
1. Remove the housing assembly from the base by loosening the three
housing screws and lifting the housing upward.
2. Adjust the three leveling screws on the CM240 bracket to level the gage
(FIGURE 7-4). A bullseye level is mounted on the rain gage’s base to
facilitate leveling (FIGURE 7-5).
FIGURE 7-4. CM240 Mounting Bracket
Leveling Screw
Leveling Screw
Leveling Screw

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
9
3. Remove the rubber shipping band and cardboard packing securing the
tipping bucket assembly. Tip the bucket several times to ensure the tipping
mechanism is moving freely.
4. Replace the housing assembly and tighten the three screws to secure the
housing to the base.
FIGURE 7-5. Main Components of the TB4
8. Troubleshooting and Maintenance
All factory repairs and recalibrations require a returned material
authorization (RMA) and completion of the “Declaration of
Hazardous Material and Decontamination” form. Refer to the
Assistance page at the beginning of this manual for more
information.
8.1 Troubleshooting
Symptom: No Precipitation
1. Check that the sensor is wired to the pulse channel specified by the
PulseCount() instruction.
2. Verify that the PConfig, and Multiplier and Offset parameters for the
PulseCount() instruction are correct for the datalogger type.
3. Disconnect the sensor from the datalogger and use an ohm meter to do a
continuity check of the switch. The resistance measured at the terminal
block on the inside of the bucket between the black and white leads
NOTE
Housing
Housing Screw
Base
Tipping Bucket
Assembly
Bullseye Level
Funnel

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
10
should vary from infinite (switch open) when the bucket is tipped, to less
than an ohm when the bucket is balanced.
8.2 Maintenance
During each site visit, remove any debris, insects, sediment, etc. from the
collection funnel, debris screen, siphoning mechanism, or tipping bucket
assembly.
Verify the tipping bucket assembly moves freely, and that the datalogger
records each bucket tip.
8.2.1 Dismantling for Cleaning
The following items should be checked regularly for cleanliness:
•Filter (FIGURE 8-3)
•Siphon (FIGURE 8-3)
•Tipping bucket assembly (FIGURE 8-1)
•Top surface of adjusting screws
•Housing locking screws; lightly lubricate after cleaning (see FIGURE
8-1)
•All insect screens
To access the above components, dismantle the TB4 using the following
procedure:
1. Remove the housing assembly from the base by loosening the three
locking screws and lifting the housing upward.
FIGURE 8-1. Components of TB4 Base
Reed Switch Assembly
Tipping Bucket Assembly
Bullseye Level
Housing Screw

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
11
2. Separate the filter/siphon assembly from the funnel by pushing the filter
while pulling the siphon (see FIGURE 8-2).
Do not twist the filter/siphon assembly while pushing and
pulling.
FIGURE 8-2. Dismantling the Filter/Siphon Assembly
CAUTION
Do not
twist
while
pushing
and
pulling.
Push Filter
Pull
Siphon
To dismantle the filter and siphon assembly,
push filter and pull siphon at the same time.
Do not twist.

TB4 and TB4MM Tipping Bucket Rain Gages
12
3. Disassemble the filter/siphon assembly by doing the following (FIGURE
8-3):
(a) Unscrew nut
(b) Lightly press stem down on surface until stem pops out of siphon body
(c) Remove stem from siphon body
(d) Unscrew cap
(e) Clean all items
FIGURE 8-3. Filter/Siphon Assembly
Filter Cover
Stem
Stem Cap
O Ring
Siphon Body
Brass Nut
Filter Screen