GFZ DiGOS Omnirecs DATA-CUBE3 Series User manual

DiGOS Potsdam GmbH
http://digos.eu • [e-mail]
Doc.:
DATA-CUBE-User-Manual
Issue:
1.3
Date:
15-May-2020
© DiGOS Potsdam GmbH
Page 1 / 24
Seismic Data Recorder
DATA-CUBE³
User Manual
DiGOS Potsdam GmbH
Telegrafenberg
14473 Potsdam
Germany

DATA-CUBE³ User Manual
Doc.:
DATA-CUBE-User-Manual
Issue:
1.3
Date:
15-May-2020
© DiGOS Potsdam GmbH
Page 2 / 24
Contents
1. Introduction..............................................................................................................................................3
2. DATA-CUBE³...........................................................................................................................................4
2.1. DATA-CUBE³ Type 1 (int) .......................................................................................................................4
2.2. DATA-CUBE³ Type 2 (ext) ......................................................................................................................5
2.3. Custom-built Types..................................................................................................................................5
3. Accessories .............................................................................................................................................6
3.1. Software and Configuration.....................................................................................................................6
3.2. Transport Box..........................................................................................................................................6
3.3. Breakout Box (BOB)................................................................................................................................7
3.4. Cables......................................................................................................................................................8
3.5. Geophones..............................................................................................................................................9
3.6. Mass Data Download ..............................................................................................................................9
3.7. Batteries & Power Supply........................................................................................................................9
4. Pin-out ...................................................................................................................................................10
5. Power Budget (examples).....................................................................................................................11
6. Recording Times & Data Storage..........................................................................................................12
7. Counts and Voltage...............................................................................................................................13
8. ADC Performance .................................................................................................................................14
9. Operation...............................................................................................................................................15
9.1. Configuration .........................................................................................................................................15
9.2. Getting Started in the Lab......................................................................................................................17
9.3. Field Installation.....................................................................................................................................17
9.4. LEDs......................................................................................................................................................21
9.5. Monitoring..............................................................................................................................................21
9.6. Restart while running (REED contact)...................................................................................................21
9.7. Data Download & Conversion ...............................................................................................................22
10. General Usage Information ...................................................................................................................23
10.1. Safety Instructions.................................................................................................................................23
10.2. Additional Information............................................................................................................................23
11. Technical Specifications........................................................................................................................24

DATA-CUBE³ User Manual
Doc.:
DATA-CUBE-User-Manual
Issue:
1.3
Date:
15-May-2020
© DiGOS Potsdam GmbH
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1. Introduction
The DATA-CUBE³ is a 3-channel, 24-bit seismic data recorder. It was initially developed at GFZ Potsdam until
2011, later enhanced and introduced to the international market by Omnirecs, now produced and distributed
by DiGOS. The DATA-CUBE³ is a great candidate for different seismologic applications by its unique combi-
nation of features.
This document provides an overview of the different DATA-CUBE³ types & applications, software, available
cables and sensor signal converters as well as detailed usage information.

DATA-CUBE³ User Manual
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DATA-CUBE-User-Manual
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2. DATA-CUBE³
The DATA-CUBE³ is available as Type 1 (int) and Type 2 (ext). Choosing the right DATA-CUBE³ type depends
on the intended application and usage scenarios. Both types are electronically identical except for the internal
vs. external GPS antenna and internal/external power supply.
2.1. DATA-CUBE³ Type 1 (int)
Features:
•Internal GPS antenna located under top cover
•Internal power supply (2x D-cells for up to 2 weeks operation) or external power supply
Typical applications:
•Active seismic measurements and short campaigns with a recording time of up to ~2 weeks (continu-
ous recording of 3 channels @ 100sps using 2 D-cell alkaline batteries)
•Outdoor installation with direct visibility of GPS satellites
•Optionally: Long-term, outdoor deployments with external power supply (internal batteries are to be
removed)
•Vault or tunnel installations without continuous GPS (see 9.3 Field Installation9.3)

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2.2. DATA-CUBE³ Type 2 (ext)
Features:
•External GPS antenna
•External power supply only
Typical applications:
•Long-term, passive seismic measurement campaigns and experiments for unattended operation of up
to ~280 days (continuous recording 3 channels @ 100sps)
•Outdoor, vault or indoor installation
2.3. Custom-built Types
In the past, some users required special versions of the DATA-CUBE³ with different configurations. As an
example, the following modified types have been manufactured in medium & large quantities:
DATA-CUBE³ Type 2: Plus electronics to adapt for a dedicated sensor signal level
DATA-CUBE³ Type 2: Antarctica & desert version for -40 - +70°C temperature rating (specified)
DATA-CUBE³ Type 2: Big data version with 64GB memory (experimental / under field tests)
CUBE+: Autonomous version with telemetry, signal level adaptation, solar power supply includ-
ing charge electronics
Please contact us if you require special adaptations.

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3. Accessories
3.1. Software and Configuration
The following software tools are available and are delivered with the DATA-CUBE³ at no additional fees:
•CubeMonitor: Used to check the proper function of the DATA-CUBE³ and noise at the installation/de-
ployment site (monitor cable required). Available for Windows only.
•CubeTools: Software package to convert recorded raw data into SEG-Y or miniSEED format. Availa-
ble for Windows and Linux.
•State-of-Health routine: Used to retrieve live state-of-health data during the measurement (GPS in-
formation, state of battery, etc.).
•Example configuration file: Used as a template to create a custom configuration of the DATA-CUBE³
recorder according to the requirements of the experiment (see section 4 below).
3.2. Transport Box
Rugged and perfectly fitting transport boxes are available for comfortable and safe transport of up to 12 DATA-
CUBE³ (or 12 geophones) in the field.
Transport box for up to 12 DATA-CUBE³

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3.3. Breakout Box (BOB)
A breakout box (BOB) is necessary if the DATA-CUBE³ is used together with an active sensor. The BOB powers
the sensor and adjusts the voltage level of the sensor output to match the voltage input range of the DATA-
CUBE³. This grants maximum flexibility and allows connecting a wide range of sensors to the DATA-CUBE³
like broadband seismometers or infrasound sensors.
Photo of an example BOB and a schematic diagram to clarify individual customer requirements
The breakout boxes are custom-made by DiGOS according to the sensor output signal specification. Addi-
tionally, the breakout box can be manufactured with the correct connector for the sensor or a corresponding
socket for an already existing sensor cable.
Low power protection can be included into the BOB if required. This avoids deep discharging of an external,
rechargeable battery.
DiGOS also built BOBs with manual sensor centering support. Please ask us for a tailored quote.
Photo of an example BOB with special functions (Un-Lock, Center...) and a schematic diagram to clarify indi-
vidual customer requirements
The low power protection disconnects the load (power) at approx. 11.5V and switches off at 10V.
Please note that Geophones that are distributed by DiGOS do not require a breakout box!

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3.4. Cables
The following cables are available:
Power cable
This cable is used to feed the DATA-CUBE³ with external power (5-24V DC). The input is protected
against reverse poling. Connector and pin-out are different between DATA-CUBE³ Type 1 and 2. The
D-cell batteries must be removed when powering DATA-CUBE³ Type 1 by external power!
USB up-/download cable (light grey)
This cable is used to upload a new configuration file to the DATA-CUBE³ or to download recorded data
from the internal storage. When connecting the DATA-CUBE³ via this cable to a computer it will appear
as an external drive. It is not necessary (yet possible) to additionally power the DATA-CUBE³ when
connecting this cable. The DATA-CUBE³ will receive power from the computer via USB to enable ac-
cess to the internal storage.
Please note: Recording of the DATA-CUBE³ stops automatically when connecting this cable! For data
post-processing it is important to have a GPS fix at the end of the recording. The user must make sure
that a GPS fix is acquired before downloading the data. The recording will continue automatically when
the cable is disconnected again. It is recommended to disconnect the DATA-CUBE³ from the power
supply before downloading the measurement data and reconnect afterwards.
Monitor cable (black)
This cable is used to check the proper operation of the DATA-CUBE³ and to observe the noise level of
an installation / deployment site. The necessary software CubeMonitor is delivered with the DATA-
CUBE³ and runs on Windows only.
Sensor cable
A sensor cable is either delivered bythe sensor manufacturer or can be ordered in various lengths from
DiGOS for most common sensors. We can also offer posthole cables on customer request.
Please contact us if you require special cable modifications.

DATA-CUBE³ User Manual
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Issue:
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Date:
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3.5. Geophones
Different types of geophones can be ordered from DiGOS:
•Available natural frequencies: 4.5Hz, 8Hz, 10Hz or 14Hz
•1 component (vertical) or 3 components (1 vertical & 2 horizontal)
•3m cable (or custom length)
3 component geophone
The geophones are connected to the DATA-CUBE without an additional breakout box.
3.6. Mass Data Download by Parallel CUBE Downloader
A Parallel CUBE Downloader (PCD) is available for parallel data download from up to 12 DATA-CUBE³ units.
The PCD comes with a powered USB 3.0 hub and Windows/Linux software. The software detects when a
DATA-CUBE³ is connected to the PCD and automatically starts downloading the recorded data to a preconfig-
ured directory. It informs the user via LEDs when the download of a DATA-CUBE³ is completed to connect the
next unit.
Parallel CUBE Downloader (PCD)
3.7. Batteries & Power Supply
Standard batteries or power supplies are depending on the deployment settings/ requirements. Therefore, the
batteries are user obligations and are not provided by DiGOS. However, DiGOS supports and offers design,
engineering and installation for more complex multi-parameter, multi-sensor stations also as turnkey solutions.
Please contact us if you want to benefit from our expertise in your campaign, experiment or project.

DATA-CUBE³ User Manual
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DATA-CUBE-User-Manual
Issue:
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Date:
15-May-2020
© DiGOS Potsdam GmbH
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4. Pin-out
Please note: The following pin-out tables are describing the data sockets of the DATA-CUBE³!
10-way socket (female): signal input from sensor (type 1 and 2)
Pin
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
K
J
Signal
Ch1
Input+
Ch1
Input–
Ch2
Input+
Ch2
Input–
Ch3
Input+
Ch3
Input–
NC
Analogue
GND
NC
NC
Color
white
brown
green
yellow
grey
pink
blue
red
purple
black
Axis
vertical
north –south
east –west
7-way socket (male): USB/Terminal/External Power (type 1 and 2)
Pin
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
Signal
USB + 5V
USB + D
USB –D
GND
Terminal
Tx 3.3V
Termial Rx
3.3V
Power
5-24V DC
4-way socket (male): External Power (type 2 only)
Pin
A
B
C
D
Signal
Power
5-24V DC
NC
NC
GND
Color
brown
blue
Please note that the corresponding connectors (plugs) must have the opposite gender.