Canary Systems MLGPS-P-24S User manual

MLGPS-P-24S
User's Guide
Hardware Version 2.0
Guide Revision F
August 2021

2MLGPS-P User's Guide
Canary Systems, Inc.
5 Gould Road
New London, NH 03257
USA
603-526-9800
www.canarysystems.com
Copyright and Trademark
© 2021 Canary Systems, Inc. All rights
reserved. No part of the contents of this book
may be transmitted or reproduced in any
form or by any means without the written
permission of Canary Systems.
MLWeb®, Canary Systems®, MultiLogger®,
MLSuite®, MLField®, and MLGPS® are
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owners. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer
The following document is provided to assist
users with the installation, operation and
training in the use of our products. This
document and our products are intended to
be used by technically qualified personnel.
Contained herein is information that is
proprietary to Canary System® and may not
be reproduced or copied in any form, nor
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and Canary Systems® assumes no
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Systems® makes no warranty as to the
suitability of this information and/or products
for any given application or use.
Warranty Policy
Canary Systems® warrants products
manufactured by Canary Systems®,
excepting software products, to be free from
defects in materials and workmanship under
normal use and service for twelve (12)
months from date of shipment unless
specified otherwise. This warranty does not
apply to any Canary Systems® products
which have been subjected to conditions
beyond the definition of “normal use”,
conditions including misuse, modification,
neglect, accidents of nature or shipping
damage. Accidents of nature include, but are
not limited to, damage due to lightning or
other electrical transients, damage due to
water or water vapor, damage due to
corrosive environments, damage due to
extreme weather conditions, or damage due
to vibration or seismic activity. Batteries are
not covered by warranty. Our sole obligation
under this warranty shall be to repair or
replace the defective product, at our option.
Under no circumstances shall we be liable for
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of whether we have been advised that such
damages may be incurred. This warranty,
and Canary Systems® obligation here under,
is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or
implied, including warranties of suitability and
fitness for a particular purpose.
Warranty Remedies
If the Canary Systems® Product fails during
the warranty period for reasons covered by
this Limited Warranty and you notify Canary
Systems® of such failure during the warranty
period, Canary Systems® at its option will
repair OR replace the nonconforming
Product, OR refund the purchase price paid
by you for the Product, upon your return of
the Product to Canary Systems® in
accordance with Canary Systems®’
standard return material authorization
procedures.

MLGPS-P User's Guide 3
High-Risk Activities
Products of Canary Systems® are not fault-
tolerant and are not designed, manufactured
or intended for use as on-line control
equipment in hazardous environments
requiring fail-safe performance, such as in
the operation of nuclear facilities, aircraft
navigation or communication systems, air
traffic control, direct life support machines, or
weapons systems, in which the failure of the
products could lead directly to death,
personal injury, or severe physical or
environmental damage ("High Risk
Activities"). Canary Systems, Inc. and its
suppliers specifically disclaim any express or
implied warranty of fitness for High Risk
Activities.
Documentation and
Release Notes
To obtain the most recent version of all
Canary Systems® technical documentation,
visit the User Guide section of our website at
https://canarysystems.com/support/users-guides/.
Additionally, Canary Systems® provides
additional information beyond the scope of
the technical documentation in the form of
Application Notes, Training Videos and White
Papers. Visit the Support section of our
website at
https://canarysystems.com/support/ to view
Application Notes, FAQ’s and videos, and the
Papers section of our website at
https://canarysystems.com/projects/papers/
to view a collection of Papers.
Release Notice
This is the August 2021 release (Revision F)
of the Canary Systems® MLGPS-P-24S
User's Guide. It applies to hardware version
2.0 and firmware version 3.0.0 or higher.
Revision History
Date
Rev
Comments
04/04/2018
A
Initial release
03/05/2019
B
Minor updates to item list
07/02/2019
C
Minor updates to
commands in Section 4
01/27/2021
D
- Added Appendices A, B,
and C
- Updated to reflect
current hardware version,
including SD card and
offline mode
- GPS Antenna
installation updates
06/01/2021
E
Added an important note
about the default baud
rate to 3.2 Connecting to
the xPico
8/25/2021
F
Replaced enclosure
images with up to date
images.

4MLGPS-P User's Guide
How To Use This Guide
Notes and Hints appear in boxes like this. Notes contain information you need to know to ensure that you use certain
features correctly, minimizing any errors. Hints indicate tips on how to use certain features more effectively, such as
any shortcuts to certain functions.
When you see a keyboard key’s name in bold angle brackets (< >), this indicates a particular keystroke you
must make in order to perform certain functions.
When you see two bolded locations separated by a vertical bar character (Location 1 | Location 2), this
indicates that the second location can be accessed only after the first. For example, an Import option that is
available in a File drop-down menu in a toolbar would be denoted with File | Import.
References to other Canary Systemsuser guides, third-party documentation or other external sources will
appear bolder and italicized. For example: For more information, see the MultiLogger User's Guide.
Related Documentation
Visit the User's Guide page on the Canary System's website to view and download the most current versions of
our technical documentation and user's guides at (https://canarysystems.com/support/users-guides/).
The following documents contain information that may be useful throughout the course of this manual:
▪MultiLogger User's Guide for additional information on data collection and import.
▪MultiLogger Suite Installation Guide for information on installation of MLSuite.
▪MLWeb User's Guide for additional information on data visualization and presentation.
▪MLGPS-24 User's Guide for information on the MLGPS-24 (permanent MLGPS enclosure).
Technical Support
Canary Systems may be contacted directly via phone or email. Ongoing support via phone, email, and virtual
meeting platforms such as Microsoft Teamsand Zoom is available through the purchase of a support
contract. Please contact Canary Systemsdirectly for more information.
Canary Systems, Inc.
5 Gould Road
New London, NH 03257
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Our website also provides numerous Application Notes, the latest versions of our software components, and all
of the latest User's Guides. Click the Support menu at www.canarysystems.com to access these resources.

Table of Contents
MLGPS-P User's Guide 5
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 6
1.1 Overview ....................................................................................................................................................6
1.2 Specifications...........................................................................................................................................10
1.3 Theory of Operation.................................................................................................................................11
1.4 Connections.............................................................................................................................................13
1.5 Items List..................................................................................................................................................14
Section 2 - Field Deployment ........................................................................................................................... 15
2.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................................................15
2.2 Site Selection........................................................................................................................................... 15
2.3 GPS Antenna and Mount Setup...............................................................................................................17
2.4 Power Supply Setup ................................................................................................................................ 19
2.5 Pelican Case Setup and Cable Attachment.............................................................................................19
Section 3 - xPico Configuration.......................................................................................................................20
3.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................................................20
3.2 Connecting to the xPico........................................................................................................................... 21
3.3 Configuring the xPico............................................................................................................................... 22
Section 4 - MultiLogger Configuration............................................................................................................ 31
4.1 Overview ..................................................................................................................................................31
4.2 Communications Configuration................................................................................................................31
4.3 Base and Rover Station Configuration ....................................................................................................36
4.4 Logger Form Features .............................................................................................................................51
Section 5 - Using MicroSD Card ...................................................................................................................... 72
5.1 Replacing the MicroSD Card ...................................................................................................................72
5.2 Retrieving Data from MicroSD Card ........................................................................................................75
Section 6 - Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................. 76
Appendix A - xPico Connection Via Browser.................................................................................................77
Appendix B - Allow Communication with LTE Gateway ...............................................................................84
Appendix C - Configuring Offline Only Stations ............................................................................................ 86
C.1 Configuring Communications for Offline Only Stations...........................................................................86
C.2 Determining Base Station Position for Offline Only Stations .................................................................89
C.3 Determining Rover Station Position for Offline Only Stations.................................................................89
Glossary ............................................................................................................................................................. 91

Section 1 - Introduction
6MLGPS-P User's Guide
Section 1 - Introduction
1.1 Overview
The MLGPSintegrates a multi-function GPS module into a power, charging and communications platform.
(Figure 1.1 A ‒ A view of the inside of an MLGPS-24 with key components highlighted)
The unit includes a multi-function Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver module, an integrated battery
charger for 12V lead-acid batteries, a micro-controller for system measurements and control, a removable
microSD card (for units supporting Offline Mode), and a wired/wireless Ethernet adapter module for
communications. It supports several internal system measurements, including several voltage measurements,
internal temperature and humidity.

Section 1 - Introduction
MLGPS-P User's Guide 7
GPS Receiver
The standard GPS receiver is capable of tracking GPS L1 and GLONASS L1 signals. It is a single-frequency,
14-channel unit. An optional OEM7 receiver that tracks Galileo, BeiDou-3, QZSS and IRNSS signals, allowing
for 555 channels is also available. Contact Canary Systems if interested in this option.
Offline Mode and MicroSD Card
The MLGPS unit ships with a 32GB microSD card already inserted into the MLGPS module. The microSD card
allows the MLGPS to collect and store raw data and utilize Offline Mode. This is ideal for units in remote
locations with unreliable Wi-Fi connectivity. Offline Mode improves data collection with virtually no gaps, even
with unreliable Wi-Fi connection. The 32GB microSD card can hold over 1200 days' worth of raw GPS data.
Hint - If you are using an older model that did not come with an SD Card and you wish to upgrade your existing unit to
be Offline Mode compatible, contact Canary Systems.
Internal System Measurements
The MLGPS is capable of reading its own panel temperature, humidity using a built-in digital humidity sensor,
and recording the status of a switch closure input. This may be used for intrusion detection or connection of a
rain gage.
Power
The MLGPS integrates a battery charge controller. It provides multi-mode adjustable charge control, supporting
12V. Batteries up to 24AHr are supported, with pass currents up to 2A. All inputs and outputs have transient
protection in the form of resistor, capacitor and transzorb networks.
Solutions
Unlimited solutions can be configured for each Rover station, with processing intervals starting from 1 minute.
Accuracy of data depends on the length of solution interval: Longer intervals mean more accuracy as more
data is averaged, but at the cost of speed at which the data is processed. Several common intervals and their
horizontal accuracies are below:
24 hour solution
2.5mm
6 hour solution
10mm
1 hour solution
20mm
15 min solution
25mm
The achievable accuracy in the field depends on a number of variables, including unobstructed sky views and
the availability and location of reference stations (need a fixed platform).
Note - Precision is given for the horizontal plane, measurements in the vertical axis are typically less accurate by a
faction of two.

Section 1 - Introduction
8MLGPS-P User's Guide
LED Status Lights
(Figure 1.1 B ‒ The MLGPS module)
Several status LEDs are used for reporting basic system operation. All LEDs are controlled by the
microcontroller to allow for reduced power consumption by supporting "blinking" operation. Blink modes are
specified for different reporting conditions. LED status lights are available for the following:
GREEN (POWER LED) - A flashing green light indicates the system is powered and operating. A
fixed green light displays when the GPS receiver is loading.
RED (CHARGE LED) - A flashing red light indicates the battery charging current:
▪Inactive - the current is less then 20mA
▪Flashing (single flash) - the current is up to 150mA
▪Fast Flashing (double flash) - the current is above 150mA
BLUE (GPS STATUS) - A flashing blue light indicates the receiver has calculated a valid position.
YELLOW #1 (Local Area Network (LAN) Link) - A flashing yellow light indicates a valid LAN/WLAN link is
detected.
YELLOW #2 (Local Area Network (LAN) Active) - A second flashing yellow light indicates if there is any
LAN/WLAN link activity.

Section 1 - Introduction
MLGPS-P User's Guide 9
Firmware and SD Card LED Status Lights
Additional LED statuses are displayed when loading firmware or inserting a microSD card.
A single flash of all LEDs simultaneously means a system reboot and the Bootloader is initialized.
GREEN (POWER LED) - Fast blinking of the Power LED occurs when the microSD card is inserted but
Files System is not mounted.
▪If a microSD card could not be mounted after insertion or if the card does not have the proper
formatting (FAT32) the Power LED will continue to fast blink.
▪In the case of a valid microSD card, the Power LED will fast blink for a couple of seconds while the
File System is mounting, then will resume normal blinking.
RED (CHARGE LED) - Each flash indicates a failed attempt to initialize the microSD card. This means the
microSD is not inserted or corrupted.
BLUE (GPS STATUS) - This blinking of this light means the Bootloader is working properly.
▪If the blue LED is blinking along with any other LED, this indicates the retry logic (see note below)
when initializing the microSD, mounting the File System and opening the Firmware file to update
the NVM memory.
▪If only the blue LED is blinking, each flash indicates the next 20KB from the Firmware file was
stored to Non Volatile Memory (NVM).
YELLOW #1 (LAN LINK) - Each flash indicates a failed attempt to perform an operation with the File
System on the microSD. This may mean the Bootloader cannot find Firmware or Backup file on the
microSD, but it can also mean any File System corruption.
YELLOW #2 (LAN ACTIVE) - Each flash indicates a failed attempt to perform an operation with the NVM
when storing Firmware blocks.
Note - For the operations described above, retries are provided. It may be OK if there are a few failed attempts. But a
continuous error indication means failed operation. When the maximum number of retries is reached, the Bootloader
will reboot.
Warranty
Warranty for the MLGPS-24 is applicable for one year from date of shipment. Warranty does not cover the
battery or failure by misuse or by nature including lightning, flood or other catastrophe.
Should you encounter problems with your MLGPS, see the troubleshooting suggestions in Section 6 -
Troubleshooting. For further assistance, contact Canary Systemsat the address listed in the front of this
manual.

Section 1 - Introduction
10 MLGPS-P User's Guide
1.2 Specifications
GPS
Receiver: GPS L1, GLONASS L1
Channels: 14
Solutions: Unlimited post-processing solutions
Average Precisions:
24 hr solution - 2.5mm (0.1")
6 hr solution - 10mm (0.4")
1 hr solution - 20mm (0.8")
15 m solution - 25mm (1")
GPS - Optional Upgrade
Receiver: GPS L1, GLONASS L1, Galileo, BeiDou-3, QZSS, IRNSS
Channels: 555
XPico wired/wireless Ethernet
Ports: RS-232 (DE-9), Ethernet (RJ-45)
Speed: 300 - 921.6kbps
Interface: Ethernet 10Base-T or 100Base-TX (Auto-sensing)
Standards: WPA, WEP, ARP, UDP/IP, TCP/IP, ICMP, SNMP, AutoIP, DHCP, TFTP, Telenet, HTTP
Security: 256-bit AES Encryption
Range (line-of-sight): 1 mile (1.31km) with directional antenna
Status LEDs
Power (green): Status of battery voltage
Charge (red): Status of charger output voltage
GPS Status (blue): GPS link status
LAN Link (yellow): Network link status
LAN Active (yellow): Network Activity
System Power
Voltage: 12 VDC @ 750mA max, nominal 70mA - 180mA (Depending on Offline Mode configuration)
Batteries: up to 24 AHr
Pass currents: up to 2A
Input voltage maximum: 40V
Charge voltages: 13.8V and 6.9V
System Measurements
Internal temperature measurement range: -40 to +85 C (-40 to +185 F)
Internal temperature measurement accuracy: 0.5 C (1 F)
Temperature output: degrees C or F
Internal humidity measurements range: 0-100 % RH
Internal humidity measurements accuracy: +/- 4.5%
Internal voltage measurement (solar panel): 0-20 VDC
Internal voltage measurement (battery input/output): 0-16 VDC
Internal voltage measurement accuracy: +/- 0.1 VDC accuracy (over temperature range)
Memory
Size: 32GB microSD Card (~31 GB effective size - over 1200 days of raw GPS data)
Physical
Module dimensions: 19 cm L x 8.9 cm W x 3.8 cm H (7.5" L x 3.5" W x 1.5" H)
Operating Temperature: -40 C to +60 C (-40 to +140F)
Operating Humidity: 95% non-condensing
Assembled Weight: 12.7 kg (28 lbs)

Section 1 - Introduction
MLGPS-P User's Guide 11
1.3 Theory of Operation
Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) monitoring is increasingly being used in geotechnical and structural
applications for high accuracy positioning. It provides continuous, near real-time 3D information that can be
accurate within millimeters. It is typically used for deformation monitoring of engineered structures such as
dams, bridges, retaining walls, etc., as well as natural structures such as hillsides and rock faces.
The first GNSS ‒ the Global Positioning System (GPS) ‒ was originally developed by the US Department of
Defense and became fully operational in 1995. Since then, several other GNSS's have begun development,
with Russia's GLONASS becoming the second GNSS to become fully operational, and the European Galileo
and Chinese BeiDou-3 (BDS) scheduled for completion in 2020. GNSS receivers on the ground can determine
their location and local time by receiving time signals from satellites. A line-of-sight is required between the
satellite and the receiver, so a sufficient constellation of satellites, in number and location within orbit, is
needed for continuous and reliable coverage ‒ this is referred to as dilution of precision, or DOP.
Communication between receivers and satellites is done through microwave signals within the L band (1 - 2
GHz) range of the radio spectrum. The L1 carrier frequency and the C/A (course acquisition) code that is
broadcast with it are the two signals being used for our applications.
The principle of GNSS or GPS monitoring is that when multiple receivers are used, static positioning at high
sampling rates can provide valuable data on potential change in the position of the receivers, and therefore, the
ground or structures they are located upon. This data can include velocity of movement, direction of movement
(horizontal, vertical, elevation) and vibration. The positioning data can be processed over a period of time, and
results can become more accurate and error free. This post processing technique is referred to as a solution. In
geotechnical applications, GPS monitoring stations can be fixed to a structure, with nearby base stations fixed
to a separate known point to act as points of reference. Then, solutions can be applied to data in post
processing so that movement or deformation of the structure can be tracked with a high degree of accuracy.
(Figure 1.3 A ‒ GPS Monitoring in Canary Systems' MLWeb
 software)
GPS monitoring can provide benefits over many terrestrial monitoring systems that might typically be used in
the same applications. GPS is conducive to automation, due to its potential for a high sampling rate, and the
fact that it can collect data continuously, 24 hours a day, in near real-time. GPS is also accurate, and through
use of solutions, data can be averaged to find very exact positions of the receivers, depending on the length of
the position averaging period used. The users can decide if the application calls for timely results at the cost of
accuracy, or highly accurate results compiled over a longer time period, making it an adaptable system for a
variety of geotechnical applications. It also functions in all weather conditions, does not have range limitation,
and is accessible worldwide.
GPS monitoring is not without its flaws. Issues persist, such as atmospheric delay, multipath, receiver noise,
and clock and ephemeris errors, that can reduce the accuracy of readings. However, many of these issues can
be mitigated by Differential GPS.

Section 1 - Introduction
12 MLGPS-P User's Guide
Differential GPS is a system in which a Base Station on a stable, known point acts as a reference for the Rover
(the GPS receiver attached to the monitored structure). The Base Station calculates the difference between its
known location and its reported position ‒ which is inaccurate due to atmospheric errors ‒ and determines the
known error. Then, that error is transmitted to the Rover so that the Rover's reported position can be corrected
for the known error. For this to work, the distance between the Rover and Base Station (known as the baseline)
must be short enough that the Rover and Base Station experience the same atmospheric conditions.
If set up correctly, Differential GPS can greatly reduce or nearly eliminate atmospheric related errors and other
sources of noise, and can result in sub-centimeter accuracy.
(Figure 1.3 B ‒ A diagram of Differential GPS)
Differential GPS relies on a stable point of reference. The addition of multiple Base Stations can help to ensure
that a stable point of reference is always available. Multiple baselines also allow Base Stations to monitor their
positions relative to one another, and if a Base Station is experiencing movement, that movement can be
observed and accounted for.
Multipath is one of the dominant sources of error in Differential GPS. Multipath is the reception of signals from
the satellite that did not follow the direct line-of-sight, meaning they bounced off an object within the proximity
of the GPS receiver antenna but are interpreted as direct signals. This will reduce the accuracy of readings.
(Figure 1.3 C ‒ Multipath Error)
Multipath cannot be prevented by Differential GPS. To reduce multipath, proper antenna site placement is key.
The antenna should be placed in an environment where reflective surfaces are minimized. Keep in mind when
deciding on site placement that the antenna must still have line-of-sight with a satellite to receive signals from
that satellite, so unobstructed sky views are a priority.

Section 1 - Introduction
MLGPS-P User's Guide 13
1.4 Connections
Connections to the MLGPS-P are provided at the bottom of the enclosure.
(Figure 1.4 A)

Section 1 - Introduction
14 MLGPS-P User's Guide
1.5 Items List
The accessories delivered along with the MLGPS-P are included in Table 1.5. The two 12AHr Lead-Acid
batteries will come already mounted in the enclosure. Several items are optional. Contact Canary Systems for
more information on these items and optional equipment.
Number
Include Item
MLGPS-P-24
1
MLGPS-P Enclosure (with batteries installed and
microSD card inserted)
Included
1
GPS Antenna with TNC connector
Included
1
TNC-TNC GPS Antenna Cable (3m/10')
Included
1
Rubber duck 5.5dBi Wi-Fi Antenna
Included
1
Null-Modem Serial Cable
Included
1
Standard Serial Cable
Included
1
30W Solar Panel
Included
1
Solar Panel Ground Mount
Included
1
SS Rod 5/8-11 x 6"
Included
2
SS Fender Washers 5/8"
Included
2
SS Nuts 5/8"
Included
(Table 1.5 ‒ A list of items included with the MLGPS-P)
Contact Canary Systems if any of these items are required for installation and were not ordered.
Additional accessories will be required for installation. They can be supplied by Canary Systems upon request.
▪Stabilized tripod.
▪Field laptop for setup and testing of the equipment.
▪USB-to-Serial adaptor for use with the field laptop.

Section 2 - Field Deployment
MLGPS-P User's Guide 15
Section 2 - Field Deployment
2.1 Overview
The MLGPS-P is intended as a non-permanent, portable device for short term deployments. It can be placed at
a site for weeks or months as needed, then moved to a different location for the next project.
There are several steps required for field deployment, summarized as follows:
▪Select a site appropriate for GPS monitoring ‒ See Section 2.2
▪Setup the tripod and mount the antenna ‒See Section 2.3
▪Setup the power supply ‒ See Section 2.4
▪Setup the pelican case and attach the cables to the enclosure ‒ See Section 2.5
2.2 Site Selection
There are three major constraints when deciding on where to install the enclosure: GPS Signal, Stability, and
Power.
GPS Signal
As GPS monitoring depends on an unobstructed line of sight, the antenna must be placed in a location where
line-of-sight from horizon to horizon, and at all bearings and elevations, is maximized. Locate the antenna away
from trees, buildings or other obstructions that would block the sky view, and be sure to note the potential for
future obstructions (vegetation growth, construction, etc.) for the site. If obstructions are unavoidable, the
antenna should be positioned so that the obstructions are to its north. This is due to the design of the GPS
satellite constellation, which causes a void of satellites in the North sky.
(Figure 2.2 A ‒ An illustration of Sky View, with potential obstructions and satellite geometry shown)
Multipath is the loss of accuracy caused by reflected satellite signals. To reduce multipath error, locate the
antenna away from reflective objects, if possible. When there are reflective surfaces and obstructions within 30
meters, mount the antenna as high as possible. Otherwise, mount the antenna as low as possible. Note the
potential for future multipath sources as well.
Stability
The enclosure must be installed upon a stable surface. Stability is especially important if the MLGPS is going to
be used as a Base Station. An MLGPS used as a Base Station must be located on a separate structure or
movement zone from the structure being monitored, on a position known to be stable. Any movement in the
Base Station's location and readings will become inaccurate. Baselines (the distance between the Rover and
Base Station) are not recommended to be beyond 10 km. Additionally, the antenna must be mounted on a
stable mount to prevent movement.

Section 2 - Field Deployment
16 MLGPS-P User's Guide
Power
If the MLGPS is going to be installed without a ready source of power, solar panels can be used. If solar panels
are to be used, be sure that the enclosure is installed in a location with enough solar exposure.
The solar panel should be positioned for maximum sun exposure. In the Northern hemisphere this means
aligning the panel with a southward exposure. In the Southern hemisphere, align the panel in a northward
direction. Use a compass to derive the correct angle. Remember to correct compass headings for declination.
The other key criteria for solar panel installation is the tilt angle. Figure 2.2 B illustrates the variability between
summer and winter and latitude. Insolation is a measure of solar radiation energy received on a given surface
and recorded during a given time.
(Figure 2.2 B ‒ Insolation throughout the year at differing latitudes)
Figure 2.2 B depicts northern hemisphere solar energy, shift the months by 6 months for the southern
hemisphere. As can be seen, solar energy varies considerably over the course of the year so the tilt angle
should be adjusted to capture the maximum radiation during the worst month of the year. In the Northern
hemisphere this is December. In the Southern hemisphere this is June.
June
December
Northern
Hemisphere
Southern
Hemisphere
Northern
Hemisphere
Southern
Hemisphere
70
0
0
70
60
10
10
60
50
20
20
50
40
30
30
40
30
40
40
30
20
50
50
20
10
60
60
10
0
70
70
0
(Table 2.2 ‒ Northern solar energy versus southern solar energy)

Section 2 - Field Deployment
MLGPS-P User's Guide 17
2.3 GPS Antenna and Mount Setup
After selecting a site, the deployment can begin.
(Figure 2.3 A ‒ An example of an MLGPS-P deployed in the field using a tripod with rock pan and solar panel)
Tripod Setup
1. Select a site for the tripod that is safe from hazards such as falling rocks and moving vehicles.
2. Setup the tripod, making sure the legs are stable and the top is level. Stabilize the legs with weight.
3. Tighten the cables attached to the tripod's legs with the turnbuckle to provide stability for the tripod.

Section 2 - Field Deployment
18 MLGPS-P User's Guide
Installation of Antenna:
The antenna is mounted on a 5/8 x 11" thread. Supplied with the MLGPS-P is a mounting kit, consisting of a 6"
stainless steel rod with 5/8 x 11" thread, (2) washers, and (2) nuts. See Figure 2.3 B for an example
installation.
(Figure 2.3 B)
1. Secure the 5/8 x 11" threaded rod through the center of the tripod using the provided washers and nuts.
Ensure that between 3/8" and 7/8" of thread is exposed for mounting the antenna.
2. Align the mount thread with the metal adaptor on the bottom of the antenna and rotate the antenna
clockwise until it is securely screwed to the mount. Using a 1" open-end wrench, tighten the adaptor to the
mount.
3. Remove the dust cap from the antenna’s TNC connector.
4. Attach the male TNC connector of the supplied TNC-to-TNC coaxial cable to the antenna's TNC connector.
5. Attach the other end of the TNC-to-TNC coaxial cable to the GPS antenna connector located on the
MLGPS enclosure.
(Figure 2.3 C ‒ A GPS antenna mounted to a tripod using a bolt)

Section 2 - Field Deployment
MLGPS-P User's Guide 19
2.4 Power Supply Setup
Solar Power
Be sure that the enclosure is installed in a location with enough solar exposure. See Section 2.2 for more
information on site selection in regard to solar insolation. Position the station where best southern exposure is
provided for maximum solar exposure. If necessary, extend the sensor cables to get out from behind berms,
high-walls or embankments. The supplied power cable is 10' in length.
AC Adaptor
An AC adaptor may be used in place of the solar panel for AC powered applications. The adaptor includes a
mil-spec connector to connect to the bottom of the enclosure. Use the appropriate AC power cord for
connecting to a standard AC receptacle. Contact Canary Systems for 220VAC cord and plugs.
2.5 Pelican Case Setup and Cable Attachment
Place the Pelican enclosure with the electronics near both the GPS antenna and the solar panel.
Attach the solar panel cable and GPS antenna cable to the enclosure. Cables can be run down the tripod legs
and secured with tie-wraps.
Attach the Wi-Fi antenna cable to the enclosure, or attach the Wi-Fi antenna itself to the enclosure using the 90
degree adapter.
See Section 1.4 for labeled connections.
(Figure 2.5 A ‒ An MLGPS-P with solar and Wi-Fi cables attached, Wi-Fi antenna at 90 degrees)

Section 3 - xPico Configuration
20 MLGPS-P User's Guide
Section 3 - xPico Configuration
The MLGPS-P-24S unit communicates using an xPico embedded Wi-Fi radio. This section outlines the steps
for configuring the xPico radio.
Hint - For older MLGPS units refer to "Step 4" of the Canary Systems Application Note #27 for details on
Configuring the AirborneM2M using HyperTerminal.
If the MLGPS unit is installed in a location without an available Wi-Fi network, an LTE radio, such as a AirLink®
RV50, may be used. Details to configure the MLGPS unit to work with an LTE gateway are outlined in
Appendix B - Allowing communication with an LTE Gateway.
If the unit is installed in a location with NO available network, the MLGPS still collects data using Offline mode.
This data can be retrieved manually be retrieved from the microSD card. See Section 5 - Using MicroSD Card.
3.1 Overview
There are two primary ways to configure the xPicofor use with the MLGPS-P:
▪Serial connection with the supplied 9-pin to 9-pin Null-Modem serial cable (recommended)
▪Wireless network connection using the integrated Wi-Fi adaptor
Serial connection is the recommended method, since the networking connections, either via Ethernet or Wi-Fi
adaptor, are pre-configured at the factory for testing and may not function properly on local networks.
This section outlines serial connection configuration. See Appendix A - xPico Connection Via Browser for
details pertaining to configuration with a wireless network connection.
Hint - For other communication configuration options contact Canary Systems.