HyQuest Solutions iRIS 350FX User manual

iRIS 350FX
User Manual
04-2023 – 01-01-000

© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 2
Table of Contents
I Disclaimer 5
II Safety Instructions 6
Part I Introduction 7
1.1 About this Manual ............................................................................................................................................ 8
1.2 Features .............................................................................................................................................................. 8
1.3 Typical Applications ........................................................................................................................................ 9
1.4 Key Features ..................................................................................................................................................... 9
1.4.1 Terminal Diagnostics ................................................................................................................................ 9
1.4.2 Wireless IP Connectivity ......................................................................................................................... 9
1.4.3 Alternative Wireless Connectivity (SMS or FTP) ............................................................................. 9
1.4.4 Power Management ............................................................................................................................... 10
1.4.5 Data Logging ............................................................................................................................................ 10
1.4.6 Logged Data Array Identification ...................................................................................................... 11
1.4.7 Alarm Processing .................................................................................................................................... 11
1.4.8 Real Time Clock ....................................................................................................................................... 12
1.4.9 Security ...................................................................................................................................................... 12
1.4.10 Gateway Communication ...................................................................................................................... 12
1.5 iRIS 350X and iRIS 350FX Comparison ................................................................................................. 12
1.6 Support ............................................................................................................................................................. 14
Part II Installation 15
2.1 Mounting .......................................................................................................................................................... 15
2.2 Opening / Closing the Housing .................................................................................................................. 16
2.3 Removing / fitting the SIM card .............................................................................................................. 16
2.4 Antenna Connection ...................................................................................................................................... 17
2.5 I/O Connector .................................................................................................................................................. 17
2.5.1 Internal Battery ....................................................................................................................................... 18
2.5.2 Internal / External 12V Battery Supply ........................................................................................... 18
2.5.3 External (Charger) Power Supply ....................................................................................................... 18
2.5.4 Analogue I/O ............................................................................................................................................. 18
2.5.5 Digital I/O .................................................................................................................................................. 20
2.6 Sensor Connection Examples ..................................................................................................................... 22
2.6.1 Connecting a Flow Meter or Rain Gauge ......................................................................................... 22
2.6.2 Connecting a 0 - 5 V Pressure Transducer ..................................................................................... 23
2.6.3 Connecting a 2-Wire Loop-Powered 4 - 20 mA Sensor ............................................................. 24
2.6.4 Connecting an Up / Down Water Level Instrument ..................................................................... 25
2.6.5 Connecting Analogue Wind Instruments .......................................................................................... 26
2.6.6 Connecting SDI-12 Instruments ......................................................................................................... 27

© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 3
2.6.7 Connecting Quadrature Encoders ....................................................................................................... 28
Part III Configuration 30
3.1 Terminal Connection ..................................................................................................................................... 30
3.2 Terminal Security Code ............................................................................................................................... 31
3.3 Configuration Menus .................................................................................................................................... 31
3.3.1 General ....................................................................................................................................................... 32
3.3.2 Power .......................................................................................................................................................... 33
3.3.3 Comms ........................................................................................................................................................ 34
3.3.4 I/O Configuration .................................................................................................................................... 41
3.3.5 SDI-12 Devices ........................................................................................................................................ 45
3.3.6 Sensor Configuration ............................................................................................................................. 45
3.3.7 Alarm Configuration ............................................................................................................................... 51
3.3.8 Camera Configuration ............................................................................................................................ 52
3.3.9 SMS Numbers ........................................................................................................................................... 53
3.3.10 User Configuration ................................................................................................................................. 54
3.3.11 User Messages ......................................................................................................................................... 55
3.3.12 Lookup Tables .......................................................................................................................................... 55
3.4 Terminal Menus ............................................................................................................................................. 57
3.4.1 Main Menu ................................................................................................................................................ 57
3.5 Using iLink 2012’s Sensor Configuration Tool .................................................................................... 60
3.5.1 iRIS Sensor Configuration Example ................................................................................................... 60
3.6 Upgrading Firmware / Software .............................................................................................................. 64
3.6.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................... 64
3.6.2 File Naming Conventions ...................................................................................................................... 64
3.6.3 iRIS Automated Upgrade Procedure (Software/Firmware) ....................................................... 65
3.6.4 iRIS Manual Upgrade Procedure (Software / Firmware) ............................................................ 66
3.6.5 Converting iRIS 350X to an iRIS 350FX ......................................................................................... 67
3.7 Using Modbus Slave Mode ......................................................................................................................... 69
3.7.1 Configuring iRIS 350FX to use Modbus ........................................................................................... 70
3.7.2 Enabling RS232 Modbus Operation using Keypad / LCD ........................................................... 71
Part IV Operation 73
4.1 General Hints .................................................................................................................................................. 73
4.2 LED Indicators ................................................................................................................................................ 73
4.2.1 Status LED ................................................................................................................................................. 73
4.2.2 Diagnostic LEDs ...................................................................................................................................... 74
4.3 LCD & Keypad ................................................................................................................................................. 74
4.3.1 LCD Operation .......................................................................................................................................... 74
4.3.2 Status Icons .............................................................................................................................................. 75
4.3.3 Keypad ........................................................................................................................................................ 76
4.3.4 Display Menu Structure ........................................................................................................................ 76
4.3.5 Keypad Buttons ....................................................................................................................................... 77
4.3.6 Primary LCD Display Screens ............................................................................................................. 77

© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 4
4.3.7 Sensor Related Screens ......................................................................................................................... 81
4.3.8 Totaliser Related Screens ..................................................................................................................... 83
4.3.9 Comms Related Screens ........................................................................................................................ 84
4.4 SMS Communication ..................................................................................................................................... 88
4.4.1 SMS Text Commands ............................................................................................................................. 88
4.5 Analog Input Scaling ..................................................................................................................................... 89
4.5.1 Example: A 4 - 20 mA Flow Meter .................................................................................................... 90
4.6 RS232 Interface Telemetry / Gateway Comms ................................................................................... 90
4.6.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................... 91
4.6.2 RS232 Port Telemetry .......................................................................................................................... 91
4.6.3 Gateway Communication ...................................................................................................................... 92
Part V Repair 95
Part VI Technical Data 96
Part VII Obligations of the Operator and Disposal 97
7.1 Obligations of the Operator ....................................................................................................................... 97
7.2 Dismantling / Disposal ................................................................................................................................ 97
Part VIII Appendices 99
8.1 Declaration of Conformity ....................................................................................................................... 100
8.2 Voice Annunciation (iRIS 350FXV) ........................................................................................................ 101
8.2.1 Loading Wave Files into the iRIS .................................................................................................... 102
8.3 SMS Control of Digital Outputs .............................................................................................................. 104
8.3.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................. 104
8.3.2 Configuration ......................................................................................................................................... 105
8.3.3 Configuration Example ....................................................................................................................... 105
8.4 Iridium Satellite Variant ........................................................................................................................... 108
8.4.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................. 108
8.5 Using an iRIS-CAM Camera ..................................................................................................................... 109
8.5.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................. 109
8.5.2 Specifications ........................................................................................................................................ 109
8.5.3 Mounting ................................................................................................................................................. 110
8.5.4 Connecting the iRIS-CAM ................................................................................................................... 110
8.5.5 Installing PC Based Software & USB Drivers .............................................................................. 111
8.5.6 Connecting to the PC ........................................................................................................................... 112
8.5.7 Focusing .................................................................................................................................................. 113
8.5.8 iRIS Configuration ............................................................................................................................... 113
8.6 SDI-12 ............................................................................................................................................................ 114
8.6.1 What is SDI-12? ................................................................................................................................... 114
8.6.2 Advantages of SDI-12 ........................................................................................................................ 114
8.6.3 SDI-12 Electrical Interface ................................................................................................................ 114

Copyright Notice: No parts of this work may be
reproduced in any form or by any means without the
written permission of the publisher. HyQuest
Solutions waives copyright for users to print out
parts of the documentation in hard copy for their
own use only.
Trademark Notice: HyQuest Solutions (HS) and
KISTERS products and services referred to in this
document are trademarks or registered trademarks
of HyQuest Solutions or KISTERS AG. Other product
names used may or may not be the trademarks of
their respective owners.
© 2020 HyQuest Solutions, a KISTERS Group
Company. Any rights not expressly granted herein
are reserved.
The information provided in this manual was deemed
accurate as of the publication date. However, updates
to this information may have occurred.
This manual does not include all of the details of
design, production, or variation of the equipment
nor does it cover every possible situation which may
arise during installation, operation or maintenance.
HyQuest Solutions shall not be liable for any
incidental, indirect, special or consequential damages
whatsoever arising out of or related to this
documentation and the information contained in it,
even if HyQuest Solutions has been advised of the
possibility of such damages.
Any errors found in any HyQuest Solutions product
should be reported to HyQuest Solutions where
every effort will be made to quickly resolve the
problem.
This document is public.
5© 2023 HyQuest Solutions
I Disclaimer

§ Read the user manual including all operating instructions prior to installing, connecting and powering up the HyQuest
Solutions iRIS 350FX. The manual provides information on how to operate the product. The manual is intended to be
used by qualified personnel, i.e. personnel that have been adequately trained, are sufficiently familiar with
installation, mounting, wiring, powering up and operation of the product.
§ Keep the user manual on hand for later reference!
§ If you encounter problems understanding the information in the manual (or part thereof), please consult the
manufacturer or its appointed reseller for further support.
§ HyQuest Solutions iRIS 350FX is intended to be used in hydrometeorological or environmental monitoring
applications.
§ Before starting to work, you have to check the functioning and integrity of the system.
§ Check for visible defects on the iRIS 350FX, this may or may not include any or all of the following mounting
facilities, connectors and connections, mechanical parts, internal or external communication devices, power
supplies or power supply lines, etc.
§ If defects are found that jeopardize the operational safety, work must be stopped. This is true for defects found
before starting to work as well as for defects found while working.
§ Do not use the HyQuest Solutions iRIS 350FX in areas where there is a danger of explosion.
§ The present user manual specifies environmental/climatic operating conditions as well as mechanical and electrical
conditions. Installation, wiring, powering up and operating the HyQuest Solutions iRIS 350FX must strictly comply with
these specifications.
§ Perform maintenance only when tools or machinery are not in operation.
§ If guards are removed to perform maintenance, replace them immediately after servicing.
§ Never make any electrical or mechanical diagnostics, inspections or repairs under any circumstances. Return the
product to the manufacturer’s named repair centre. You can find information on how to return items for repair in the
relevant section of the HyQuest Solutions website.
§ Disposal instructions: After taking the HyQuest Solutions iRIS 350FX out of service, it must be disposed of in
compliance with local waste and environmental regulations. The HyQuest Solutions iRIS 350FX is never to be disposed
in household waste!
§ Inputs and outputs of the device are protected against electric discharges and surges (so-called ESD). Do not
touch any part of the electronic components! If you need to touch any part, please discharge yourself, i.e. by touching
grounded metal parts.
II Safety Instructions
© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 6

© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 7
Introduction
1Introduction
Thank you for choosing our product. We hope you will enjoy using the device.
HyQuest Solutions manufactures, sells, installs and operates quality instrumentation, data loggers and communication
technology. Products are designed with passion for environmental monitoring and with a deep understanding of the
quality, accuracy and robustness needed to fulfil the requirements of measurement practitioners in the field.
The present User Manual will help you understand, install and deploy the device. If, however, you feel that a particular
information is missing, incomplete or confusing, please do not hesitate to contact us for further support!
HyQuest Solutions’ IP datalogger iRIS 350FX has been designed and constructed for use in harsh outdoor and industrial
environments. It is compact, cost effective and easily configured, with support for a wide range of instrumentation. The
communication slots support wireless 3G modem, Iridium satellite, ethernet, RS232, SDI-12 and modbus slave protocol
for SCADA. An integral wireless modem provides network connectivtiy.
§ Multi-band 2G/3G Sierra Wireless Q2698 module in current production units.
§ Multi-band 3G HSDPA/WCDMA (for example Spark XT®, New Zealand and Telstra NextG® Australia). This may be either
a Maxon 6280E module or a Sierra Wireless Q26 Extreme module in older iRIS 350 or iRIS 350X hardware.
§ Multi-band 900/1800/1900 MHz Wavecom 2406 or Q24+ GSM/GPRS in the oldest iRIS 350 hardware.
General Characteristics
The iRIS 350FX is supplied in an environmentally sealed (IP67) enclosure constructed from a special corrosion-resistant
aluminium alloy that is finished in a hard-anodised coating. This provides a very high degree of mechanical strength and
EMI shielding, and enables completely stand-alone mounting in outdoor situations. The unit comes standard with an
integral 12 V gel-cell battery, membrane keypad and a 4 lines × 19 characters (plus icons) LCD.
The iRIS 350FX supports a maximum of twenty external sensors (1 - 20). Sources for these sensors may be chosen from
physical digital or analogue inputs or virtual sources (via serial communication or calculations).
Sources may also be from internal measurements (battery voltage, supply voltage, temperature and RSSI). Each sensor
has six associated alarms, each with separate trigger and reset levels. Each alarm also has a duration, which is used to
delay the alarm trigger for analogue inputs and to determine the time over which pulse input counters should be
totalised (rainfall etc.).
Data from all enabled sensors are logged in a four word (8 byte) compressed format which includes full date and time
stamp to a 1 second resolution. The iRIS 350FX supports SDI-12 communication with a range of industry standard
intelligent sensors.
A variant of the iRIS 350FX which is designated the iRIS 350FXV offers voice annunciation of sensor values using the voice
bearer of the wireless service.
The iRIS 350FX supports the connection of a proprietary serial camera, the iRIS-CAM. This enables the iRIS to capture
colour images which can be unloaded in the same way as logged data. Due to resource limitations, the iRIS 350FXV is
unable to support the iRIS-CAM in conjunction with the voice feature.
Figure 1 – iRIS 350FX External View

© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 8
Introduction
1.1 About this Manual
This guide is intended to assist with the operation of the iRIS 350FX datalogger.
It should be read in conjunction with the integrated help file included with the iLink 2012 support application.
This guide is available in PDF format at: www.hyquestsolutions.co.nz
Throughout this document, small icons are used to identify additional information. These are as follows:
Note Indicates extra detail to expand the current discussion.
Warning Describes something that may cause problems if not heeded.
Note: The term “iRIS” is used throughout this manual in all references to the iRIS 350FX datalogger.
1.2 Features
Wireless IP Mode
SMS Mode
CSD Mode
Voice Annunciation Support
IRIS-CAM Camera Support
Digital inputs (pulse)
Analogue Inputs (0 - 5 V or 0 - 20 mA)
Digital Control Outputs (shared with inputs)
SDI-12 Interface
RS-232 Interface
Number of Simultaneous Logging Channels
Internal Temperature Logging
Internal Battery Logging
Supply Voltage Logging
Alarms. Can be assigned to any sensor
Rated at IP67
Heavy Duty Aluminium Case
Internal 3.6 V Lithium Backup Battery
Internal 12 V Rechargeable Battery
Internal Battery Charger
Direct Solar Panel Connection
External RF Antenna Connector (SMA)
Keypad / LCD
iRIS 350FX
4
4
4
20
40
iRIS 350FXV
4
4
4
20
40
Table 1 – Feature Summary

© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 9
Introduction
1.3 Typical Applications
The iRIS can be used for a wide range of diverse applications, including but not limited to:
§ Rainfall measurement
§ Wind measurement
§ River level monitoring
§ Mobile temperature monitoring
§ Water / power / gas metering
§ Irrigation monitoring / control
§ Remote control
§ IP RS232 communications gateway
1.4 Key Features
This chapter contains the following subsections:
§ Terminal Diagnostics
§ Wireless IP Connectivity
§ Alternative Wireless Connectivity (SMS or FTP)
§ Power Management
§ Data Logging
§ Logged Data Array Identification
§ Alarm Processing
§ Real Time Clock
§ Security
§ Gateway Communication
1.4.1 Terminal Diagnostics
A small number of diagnostic and initialisation options are available via a standard ASCII terminal connected to the RS232
serial interface. In previous models (350 / 350X) nearly all the configuration was also done using the terminal. This has
been removed because of the increased features of the FX and data unloading is done using the HyQuest Solutions logger
support application, iLink 2012.
1.4.2 Wireless IP Connectivity
Wireless Internet Protocol connectivity is provided via the on-board modem. Through this interface it is possible to
perform configuration changes and retrieve logged data using HydroTel™ or iLink 2012 software. To facilitate IP
connectivity, a suitably activated SIM card must be inserted in the device. It is also necessary to program the unit with
appropriate IP connection settings through a terminal connected to the RS232 serial interface. The iRIS communicates
using IP over a wireless network using either UDP or TCP protocol.
1.4.3 Alternative Wireless Connectivity (SMS or FTP)
Another wireless connection mode other than IP is also possible on all hardware variants. This is SMS (Short Message
Service). As with the IP mode described above in Section Wireless IP Connectivity , using the SMS service requires a
SIM card with the SMS service enabled by the service provider.
The SMS option works by sending a pre-set text message to up to ten destination cell phones or SMS receivers. This
message contains the iRIS site identification and the current values of all enabled sensors. See Section SMS
Communication for more information on using the SMS feature.
Irrespective of the modem call-back mode setting (IP or SMS), the iRIS will only respond to incoming SMS
requests when it is not connected in IP mode. The modem call-back mode setting only changes the service
that is used to notify an alarm or generate a communications test. In this case, the selected service and
destination phone numbers are used to send a text message (SMS).
9
9
9
10
10
11
11
12
12
12
9
88

© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 10
Introduction
Finally, FTP file transfer is provided for installations requiring a stand-alone data uploads. This option is only available for
units equipped with the Sierra Wireless Q26 modem.
1.4.4 Power Management
The iRIS supports four power management modes which are described below. Power management features control the
RS232 port, modem, LCD backlight and status LEDs.
Note: The LCD backlight will be contentiously on when in No Save mode. In all other modes the backlight will turn on
when a user presses any key and turn off 60 seconds later or 300 seconds later if the user is logged in.
In all modes the backlight will not be on if the battery voltage is less than 12 V.
No Power Save
With power management disabled, the internal wireless modem is maintained in a powered on state even if an IP session
is not currently active. While in this state, periodic signal strength measurements are made and it is possible to interrogate
the internal modem using the AT command set via a terminal connected to the serial interface. All on-board
communication, I/O, the LCD backlight and all status LED’s are permanently enabled in this mode.
Partial Power Save
With the power management mode set to Partial Save, the on-board LEDs are disabled but the internal wireless modem
remains in the same fully active state as in the No Power Save mode. However, the signal strength measurement rate is
slowed to aid power saving.
Full Power Save
When power management is set to full save mode, the internal LEDs are disabled and the internal wireless modem
remains in a powered off state until a wireless session is activated by the scheduler, a user or an alarm (if this feature is
enabled).
While the modem is in this state, it is not possible to obtain signal strength measurements or interrogate the
modem via the AT command set using the Modem Terminal mode as the modem is shut down.
RS232 Only
This mode is provided for applications where the internal modem is not used and telemetry is achieved by a data radio or
modem connected to the RS232 port. When in this mode, the RS232 port is used for all call-back communication. The
RS232 port behaviour also changes depending on whether the iRIS is in “Normal” or “Telemetry” mode. See Section RS232
Interface Telemetry / Gateway Comms for further details on RS232 telemetry communications.
1.4.5 Data Logging
The iRIS supports the logging of data from up to twenty virtual sensors. Each of the virtual sensors can obtain
information from one of the following data sources:
§ Analogue input on AIN1 – AIN4
§ Pulse counter attached to DIO1 - DIO4
§ Simulated pulse counter enabled by DIO1 - DIO4
§ Frequency counter attached to DIO1 or DIO2
§ Up/down counter attached to DIO1 and DIO2 simultaneously
§ Internal database location (for values obtained via user script or communications link)
§ Floating Point database location
§ SDI-12 instrument channel
§ Quadrature shaft encoder attached to DIO2 and DIO3 simultaneously
§ Change of status on charger input (DC supply)
§ Battery voltage
§ Supply (charger) voltage
90

© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 11
Introduction
§ Logger temperature
§ Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI)
§ Derived via a lookup table (e.g. flow rate) sourced from sensor 1's measured value.
§ Change Of State on digital I/O channels DIO1 - DIO4
§ Modbus 2 Byte Short/ 4 Byte Float
§ Day to Now on digital I/O channels DIO1 – DIO4
§ Year to Date on digital I/O channels DIO1 – DIO4
§ Running Total on digital I/O channels DIO1 – DIO4
Each sensor can be set up to scale the raw data source into engineering units through the application of a multiplier and
offset (slope and constant). The scaled value can be logged to non-volatile memory at rates between once per minute to
once per hour or immediately in true event mode for pulse inputs.
It is also possible to configure a sensor to also log associated values such as minimum, maximum, standard deviation (for
all source types) or a calculated flow rate or volume (pulse type sources only). See the next section for further details on
configuring these extended logging features as part of the Sensor Cfg menus.
1.4.6 Logged Data Array Identification
Each sensor’s logged data is identified by an array ID number. For the primary logged data, the ID is the sensor number
itself. For the optional supplementary data (min, max, deviation, flow/vol), the array ID has an offset added to the sensor
number that it is associated with. These ID offsets are as follows:
Minimum
+20
Maximum
+40
Deviation
+60
Flow/Volume
+80
Check Count
+100
For example, Sensor 4 has been configured to log the average value, plus the maximum and standard deviation. Three
data arrays will be logged for this sensor at each logging interval with IDs of 4, 44 and 64 respectively. In HydroTel™ these
require point identifiers of 4, 44 and 64 respectively.
Array 0 (zero) is a special array identifier and is used as a system event log. Currently this is only used to log
a restart (either at the initial connection of power, on a watchdog reset or a user program start after an
upgrade). The logged value in this case contains a value that can be decoded to determine the cause of the
restart. In HydroTel the identifier for this item is 0.
1.4.7 Alarm Processing
There is a “pool” of up to 40 free-format alarms. These can be assigned to any virtual sensor. So it is possible to have up
to two alarms on every sensor or else more on some sensors and less or none on others. Each alarm has separate trigger
and reset levels, an activation delay or accumulation period depending upon the data type, comms interval, enable call-in
and an option to send a customised SMS text to a specified number when the alarm is triggered.
Each sensor has an associated flag that is set if any alarm on the sensor is active. This can be used to vary the logging rate
for the sensor. For example taking more frequent logs when water level is high compared to a less frequent “routine” log
in normal conditions.
The iRIS also maintains a global “alarms active” flag that is set if any alarm on any sensor in the device is active. This is
used to trigger a call-in or data transfer to the designated host. As well as the call-in, this flag can also control the digital
outputs or trigger a camera image for the iRIS-CAM variant.

© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 12
Introduction
1.4.8 Real Time Clock
The iRIS has a non-volatile real time clock that can be read and / or synchronised using HydroTel™ or iLink 2012.
The iRIS 350FX differs from its predecessors in that the internal clock runs in UTC (GMT) and all logged data is
time/date stamped in this time zone. HydroTel™ and/or iLink 2012 automatically adjust for this. The
configured UTC offset is only used to adjust the date/times on the LCD (as viewed by users) to the local
standard time zone.
1.4.9 Security
The iRIS can be configured with a PIN code to prevent unauthorised access to restricted information through the LCD and
keypad. This is especially useful when the iRIS is installed in a location where it is accessible to the general public.
A second level of security is also provided to prevent access to the terminal via a serial connection. This is achieved by a
security string that if used requires correct entry before access to the terminal is granted. This is typically to protect the
totalisers and logged data from being cleared.
See Section Terminal Security Code for more details on using the security string.
1.4.10 Gateway Communication
The iRIS supports iQuest protocol gateway functionality between the wireless network and the RS232 serial interface. This
enables the unit to be used as a bridge between the wide area wireless network and a localised radio or other network. It
is possible to connect a datalogger that does not have wireless capability such as the HyQuest iRIS 150 FX to the serial
port of the iRIS and communicate with it via the gateway. Also, by connecting a data radio to the unit’s serial port it is
possible to communicate with several devices in a multi-drop radio network from the wireless network.
When the gateway option is enabled, any data packets that are not addressed to the iRIS and match the gateway criteria
are readdressed and redirected. The port that the redirected packet is sent from depends on the configuration of the iRIS.
Refer to the Section RS232 Interface Telemetry / Gateway Comms for further information on using the
gateway.
1.5 iRIS 350X and iRIS 350FX Comparison
The key differences between the three iRIS 350 models are:
iRIS 350
iRIS 350X
iRIS 350FX
Integer Database
2560 locations
10000 locations
Same as iRIS 350X
Floating - Point
Database
10 locations
(Intel 6-byte format)
Same as iRIS 350
64 locations
(IEEE-754 4-byte format)
Logging Sensors
6 “free-format” sensors + 3
fixed (internal) sensors.
20 “free-format” sensors. The
internal sensors (supply volts,
battery volts and temperature)
can now just be selected as a
source for any sensor.
Note: The sensor sources have
been significantly changed.
Same as iRIS 350X
31
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© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 13
Introduction
iRIS 350
iRIS 350X
iRIS 350FX
§ Extra digital inputs (3 & 4)
sources added for pulse and
auto-pulse
§ New floating-point loc also
added
§ Battery volts = 22
§ Supply Volts = 23
§ Temperature = 24
§ RSSI shifted up list. Is now 25
Digital I/O
DIO1 and DIO2 fixed as
digital inputs. DIO3 and DIO4
fixed as outputs (DO1 and
DO2).
All four channels can be
configured as in or out.
However, only DI1 and DI2
inputs can be used for high
speed (frequency) inputs.
Enable flag removed. Mode = 0
is now “Disabled”.
Extra mode added for
Scheduled with sensor or
comms power control, also
activated while user is logged in
for calibration.
Mode to trigger from setpoints
on Sensor 1 removed. These can
be done more flexibly via a
script if required. Modes have
been totally reindexed.
Same as iRIS 350X
Analogue Output
Fixed full scale output.
Typically 5 V excitation,
actual signal is selected by
hardware link.
Configurable. Either fixed value
or set to follow a sensor’s
current EU or last logged value.
Actual signal is selected by
hardware link
Same as iRIS 350X
Default RS232 speed
38,400 bps
Same as iRIS 350
115,200 bps
Sensor Rejection
Single setpoint. Can only
reject above or below. No
indication of value rejection.
High and low rejection limits.
Will reject outside a defined
band. Also, the LCD and terminal
show if the current value is
being rejected.
High and low rejection limits.
Will reject outside a defined
band. Also, the LCD and
terminal show if the current
value is being rejected.
Sensor Alarms
2 per sensor
6 per sensor
5 per sensor (one less than
iRIS 350X)
Internal temperature
measurement
Both °C and °F calculated in
firmware.
(Measured in
microcontroller)
Always °C, but if used as a
sensor source, can be rescaled
to °F using mult and offset.
(Measured in microcontroller)
Always °C, but if used as a
sensor source, can be
rescaled to °F using mult and
offset.
(Measured in A/D converter)
Derived Sensor Ids
(added to base sensor
id)
Min: +10
Max +20
Std Dev: +30
Min: +20
Max +40
Std Dev: +60
Same as iRIS 350X, plus
Check Count +100

© 2023 HyQuest Solutions 14
Introduction
iRIS 350
iRIS 350X
iRIS 350FX
Flow//Volume +40
Flow//Volume +80
Supported SMS
commands
GOL Go online
RQ Request logger
information
Same as iRIS 350, plus
INT Set interval
PIC take picture
Same as iRIS 350X, plus
SDI SDI-12 command / reply
Lookup Table Support
No
Yes – one table. Max 320 pairs.
Fixed to use Sensor 1 as the
derivation source.
Supports two tables.
Max Unload Block
Size
200 words
200 words
200 words
iRIS-CAM Image Id
63/0
127/0
127
Firmware Id (Model)
Vk
Vx
Vz
Program File Suffix
.irs
.irx
.350fx
S/W Checksum Seed
0x3CD6
0x940E
0x940E
1.6 Support
Technical support for the iRIS 350FX datalogger is available by contacting:
HyQuest Solutions
P.O Box 9466
Hamilton 3240
NEW ZEALAND
Tel: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
For latest information and software updates, visit the HyQuest Solutions website at: www.hyquestsolutions.com

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Installation
2Installation
This chapter contains the following subsections:
§ Mounting
§ Opening / Closing the Housing
§ Removing / fitting the SIM card
§ Antenna Connection
§ I/O Connector
§ Sensor Connection Examples
2.1 Mounting
The iRIS can be mounted by installing suitable screws through the mounting pillars which are exposed when the lid is
opened. The recommended mounting screws are M4 machine screws or Twinfast® wood screws.
Figure 2 – Mounting Diagram
It is very important that the four screws retaining the lid are tightened firmly after installation to maintain the
IP67 rating of the enclosure.
The mounting holes are on 142 mm (5.11in) width by 80 mm (3.2in) height centres.
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2.2 Opening / Closing the Housing
The front of the iRIS enclosure is secured by four M4 machine screws with Phillips® heads.
There are two small plastic hinges on the case. These are designed to hold the lid once it is released.
To Open
Lift off the two grey plastic side covers to expose the screws securing the cover. Put them in a safe place. Undo all four
screws. There is no need to remove them completely as they are retained in the lid. The front cover should then be able
to be swung open, to a maximum angle of 90°.
To Close
Check that the black sealing strip is fully installed in its retaining groove and there are no wires likely to be trapped under
the cover. Gently swing the front cover closed, holding it straight while refitting the screws. Tighten screws securely to
maintain the IP67 rating of the enclosure. Replace the grey plastic side covers. Finally ensure the black rubber sealing cap
is refitted to protect the RS232 connector.
2.3 Removing / fitting the SIM card
Important! Ensure the iRIS is depowered before attempting to remove or fit the SIM card. Exercise care when
inserting or removing the SIM card, as the carrier is fragile.
Open the front cover as described above.
Using a finger nail or small screwdriver inserted into one of the two oval holes on the sliding holder, gently lower the
slide downwards to unlock it. The slide can now be swung forwards from its top end to enable the SIM card to be inserted
or removed. Reverse the procedure to close and lock the card into place.
Figure 3 – SIM Carrier

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Installation
2.4 Antenna Connection
The iRIS 350 has an industry standard SMA connector which protrudes through the bottom edge of the enclosure lid.
In areas of good signal strength, a small “stubby” or omni-directional type antenna will suffice. In areas of more marginal
coverage, the antenna should an external high gain type such as a Yagi, via appropriate low-loss high frequency coaxial
cable and male SMA connector.
2.5 I/O Connector
All I/O and power supply terminations are via 5 mm (0.2”) pitch screw terminals provided on a 16-way pluggable
connector. The I/O connector is positioned on the right hand side of the iRIS circuit board, directly above the white
battery connector. The function of each I/O termination is shown in the diagram below.
iRIS 350FX units fitted with a PCB revision V1.2+ have an 18-way connector compared to the 16-way
connector on earlier units. The two additional terminals provide an extra GND connection and the 1-wire bus
expansion port. They are shown as shaded in the diagram below.
Figure 4 – I/O Connector

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Installation
2.5.1 Internal Battery
The iRIS can be supplied with an internal rechargeable 12 V 0.8 A/Hr sealed lead-acid battery on request. If the battery is
installed, it should be disconnected if the unit is not going to be used for some time.
For maximum flexibility, the iRIS I/O connector has two terminals provided for additional 12 V power supply flexibility.
These terminals (marked 12 V+ and GND) can either be used to deliver 12 V from an optional internal battery out to
power an external sensor or other small load, or alternatively be connected to an external 12 V battery (for greater
battery capacity) or a 12 V DC battery charger type power supply. See the next two sections on using the 12V terminals
and the external (charger) power supply feature.
Warning! Optional internal battery
The 12V+ and GND terminals of the I/O connector are effectively connected directly in parallel with the
optional internal 12 V battery. A resettable semiconductor fuse is fitted for short-circuit protection. However,
only connect 12 V lead-acid batteries or a regulated DC power supply that is designed for charging a 12 V
lead-acid battery, to these terminals.
Applying a voltage higher than 14.5 V for a sustained period to these terminals will permanently damage the
internal battery and may cause an acid leak and/or an explosion.
2.5.2 Internal / External 12V Battery Supply
There are two terminals provided on the I/O connector designated +12 V and GND. These can be used to power the unit
from an external 12 V battery or regulated DC supply. If installed, the internal battery is effectively connected directly to
these terminals. See Section Internal Battery above for warnings on connecting external power supplies to them.
2.5.3 External (Charger) Power Supply
Although the iRIS can operate solely from the internal battery (if fitted) for a few days if set to full power save mode, you
will typically need to connect an external supply to the unit so that the internal battery remains in a charged state. You
can connect any external DC power source ranging from 15 – 30 V DC, including a solar panel, without requiring an
additional solar regulator.
The battery charging circuitry utilises a switch mode regulator for maximum efficiency. The external power supply is
protected against over-voltage by ultra-fast acting protection devices and a self-resetting semiconductor fuse.
It can also be used to charge an external battery connected to the GND and 12 V+ terminals. In the event that the external
battery draws excessive current, the charger will enter a current limit mode (900 mA) until such time as the battery has
been recharged sufficiently to deliver the full supply voltage. The charging profile used by the charger depends on the
selected mode. See the Power Management description in Section Power .
The battery charger operates in a simple dual mode “float” / “charge” pattern. To do this it regularly switches
between two voltage levels to optimise the battery charge. The actual profile is determined by the Power
Source setting.
When the Power Source is set to “DC”, the battery voltage will rise and fall every two hours giving a “sawtooth” type
voltage plot when the data is logged. This is normal.
2.5.4 Analogue I/O
Analogue Inputs
The four analogue inputs are uni-polar 0 - 5 V DC with 16-bit resolution. Each input presents a load impedance of 97 kΩ
to the input signal.
Scaling factors should be chosen to convert from a raw value of 0.0000 – 5.0000, which reflects the input signal range of
0 - 5 V. When current sources such as 0 - 20 mA or 4 - 20 mA are connected, an internal sink resistor (100 Ω) is enabled by
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Installation
an internal user-settable link (J1-J4). In this mode the measured voltage range is 0 - 2 V for a 0 - 20 mA input and the
scaling factor should take this into account.
As the analogue inputs have an input impedance of 97 kΩ, the actual sink resistor impedance will be slightly
lower than the value fitted. When, for example, the current mode link is fitted, a sink resistor of 100 ohms is
installed. The actual impedance will theoretically be 99.71 Ω; therefore the voltage measured by the iRIS will
also be slightly lower than expected. See Section Using iLink 2012’s Sensor Configuration Tool for details
on the recommended scaling method for optimising the calibration.
Figure 5 – Simplified Analogue Input Circuit
Figure 6 – Analogue Input / Output Links
It is possible to use an external resistor such as a 250 Ω to raise the voltage range measured.
I.e. 100 Ω will give a working range of 0.4 V to 2 V, 250 Ω will give a range of 1 V to 5 V.
In this case, ensure the internal sink enable link is open. The resistor value in the analogue scaling calculator in
iLink will need to be changed to the value actually used.
Analogue Output
The iRIS has a single variable analogue output. This may be configured to deliver either a voltage output ranging between
0 - 5 V or a current output ranging from 4 - 20 mA. The output's electrical signal (voltage or current) is link selectable. See
Section Analogue Out for details on configuring the analogue output.
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2.5.5 Digital I/O
The iRIS has four digital I/O channels which can each be configured as either an input or output. When set as an output,
the channel can either supply switched 12 V or else act as a pull-down switch for loads with a different supply voltage. If
the digital output configuration is set to 0 (Disabled) the channel is by default an input. See Section Digital Ins/Outs for
details on configuring the digital outputs.
Digital Channels as Inputs
The digital inputs are selectable for either mechanical or electronic operation. In either case it is necessary to pull the input
down to 0 V DC to activate it. Inputs will handle up to 30 V DC in the off state for parallel connection across existing
equipment. The “debounce” is enabled by a jumper link, which if fitted enables a longer time constant circuit to eliminate
multiple pulses caused by contact bounce. The debounce jumpers are positioned in the centre of the PCB. The picture
below shows the links in their default positions.
Figure 7 – Digital Input Debounce Links
Fit the jumper for mechanical switching at up to 20 Hz. In this mode the input is normally pulled up to 12 V through a 10
kΩ resistor providing a wetting current of approximately 1.2 mA. A 100 nF capacitor is also fitted across the input to
provide limited hardware debounce, preventing false triggering due to contact bounce. For installations that do not have
an external power source it is important that the input is not held low for a prolonged period of time, as this will increase
the current drawn from the internal battery if this is fitted.
Remove the appropriate jumper for electronic switching at up to 5 kHz (on DIO1 and DIO2 only). In this mode the input is
normally pulled up to 5 V through a 57 kΩ resistance, providing a wetting current of approximately 100 µ A.
Figure 8 – Digital Input Circuit
In almost all installations where an iRIS is connected in parallel with other equipment to share a common
pulse input (e.g. from a flow meter), there has not been a detrimental effect, as the iRIS inputs present a
relatively high impedance to the circuit. However, in the event that connecting an iRIS does cause pulse
failure, HyQuest Solutions recommend removing the debounce selection link for the appropriate input. This
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