LI-COR LI-1500 User manual

LI- 1500
Light Sensor Logger
Instruction Manual

LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger
Instruction Manual
LI-COR Biosciences
4647 Superior Street
Lincoln, Nebraska 68504
Phone: [phone]
Toll free: 800-447-3576 (U.S. and Canada)
[e-mail]
Regional Offices
LI-COR Biosciences GmbH
Siemensstraße 25A
61352 Bad Homburg
Germany
Phone: [phone]
[e-mail]
LI-COR Biosciences UK Ltd.
St. John’s Innovation Centre
Cowley Road
Cambridge
CB4 0WS
United Kingdom
Phone: [phone]
[e-mail]
LI-COR Distributor Network:
www.licor.com/env/distributors

NOTICE
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.
LI-COR MAKES NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND WITH REGARD TO THE THIS MATERIAL, INCLUDING, BUT NOT
LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
LI-COR shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the
furnishing, performance, or use of this material.
All trademarks or registered trademarks are property of their respective owners.
Printing History
Copyright © 2014-2019, LI-COR, Inc.
Publication Number: 984-14406
Created on: Friday, November 6, 2020
This document contains proprietary information which is protected by copyright. All rights are reserved. No part of this
document may be may be reproduced or translated into another language with prior written consent of LI-COR, Inc.
CE Marking:
This product is a CE-marked product. For conformity information, contact LI-COR Support at [e-mail].
Outside of the U.S., contact your local sales office or distributor.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
ii

iii
Printing History
Publication Number: 984-14406
New editions of this manual will include all updates. An update addendum may be used between editions to provide up-
to-date information. Revisions are indicated by the revision number. Minor updates, which do not alter the meaning of
the content, will be incorporated without affecting the revision number.
Version
Number
Publication Date Changes
1 May 2014 First Edition
2 October 2014 Second Edition; Added "Ranges and Resolution by Sensor Type" and
updated "Battery Life" in specifications.
3 November 2014 Third Edition; Note about averaging with manual logging routine;
Note maximum 1 Hz sampling rate with GPS.
4 June 2015 Fourth Edition; Firmware update; Logging routine supersedes auto-
off timer; Status line "Not logging" or "Logging"; Battery % indicator;
Range selection note; Memory capacity table.
5 November 2015 Fifth edition; Added troubleshooting instructions for re-inserting
dislodged SD memory card.
6 November 2016 Sixth edition; Added troubleshooting for a zero reading with
underwater sensors; Removed USB external battery power pack from
power supply options in specifications.
7 May 2019 Updated for 1 minute and 1 hour sampling rate

CE Marking:
This product is a CE-marked product. For conformity information, contact LI-COR Support at [e-mail].
Outside of the U.S., contact your local sales office or distributor.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
Doc. #53-16006-A
June 30, 2016
LI-1500/LI-1500G Light Sensor Logger/LI-250A Light Meter
Part Name Toxic and Hazardous Substances or Elements
(Pb) (Hg) (Cd) (Cr(VI)) (PBB) (PBDE)
PCBs)
X O O O O O
Cables and Wires)
X O O O O O
(Metal Parts)
X O O O O O
(Plastic Parts)
O O O O O O
(Batteries)
O O O O O O
SJ/T 11364
O = GB/T 26572
(indicates that the content of the toxic and hazardous substance in all the Homogeneous
Materials of the part is below the concentration limit requirement as described in GB/T 26572).
X = GB/T 26572
(indicates that the content of the toxic and hazardous substance in at least one Homogeneous
Material of the part exceeds the concentration limit requirement as described in GB/T 26572).
LI-1500/LI-1500G / LI-250A
iv

v
Contents
Section 1. Introduction to the LI-1500
What's what 1-2
Powering the LI-1500 1-2
Install batteries 1-2
Low battery indicator 1-3
AC power 1-3
Cable connections 1-4
Data cable connection 1-4
Light sensor input ports 1-4
Memory 1-4
Precautions 1-5
Maintenance 1-5
Section 2. The basics
Powering On and Off 2-1
Keypad 2-1
Adjusting display brightness 2-3
Monitor mode navigation 2-3
Menu navigation 2-4
Console settings 2-5
Time and date 2-5
Auto-off timer 2-5
Beeper 2-5
Global Positioning System (GPS) 2-6
Overview of GPS 2-6
GPS tagging 2-6
GPS fix quality 2-6
GPS variables 2-7
Section 3. Configuring the LI-1500
Creating a basic logging configuration 3-1
Adding a sensor 3-3
Creating a configuration 3-3
Changing the logging routine 3-4
Changing the sampling rate 3-5

Standard modes 3-5
Raw mode 3-6
Sampling rate and measurement range 3-7
Selecting a measurement range 3-7
Adding an output 3-8
Configuring a math output 3-9
Enabling averaging 3-10
Averaging window and min/max 3-10
Sampling rate and averaging 3-11
Measuring underwater attenuation 3-12
Underwater attenuation theory 3-12
50/60 noise filter 3-13
Section 4. Logging and viewing data
Logging data 4-1
Prompts and remarks 4-2
Underwater sensor logging 4-2
Prompt on Log 4-3
GPS tagging 4-3
Viewing and downloading logged data 4-4
On the console 4-4
On a computer 4-4
Raw Mode Data 4-5
Viewing real-time data 4-6
Section 5. Troubleshooting
Console will not power up 5-1
Instrument will not turn off 5-1
Instrument locks up 5-1
GPS readings are absent or the fix quality is poor 5-1
Sensor readings are absent or incorrect 5-2
Underwater sensor reading is zero when it should be something else 5-2
Data are not logged correctly 5-3
Time settings are not retained when changing the "AA" batteries 5-3
Unable to read data or transfer data to a computer 5-3
Section 6. Maintenance
Updating the firmware 6-1
Replacing the internal lithium battery 6-2
vi

vii
Appendix A. Specifications
Appendix B. Warranty
Appendix C. Index

viii

Section 1.
Introduction to the LI-1500
The LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger is a 3-sensor logger
that can also function as a handheld meter for dis-
playing real-time data. Three BNC input ports accept
LI-COR terrestrial and underwater light sensors.
With Standard Modes sampling, the LI-1500 collects
samples at up to 20 Hz, from up to three sensors at
once. Math operations and averaging can be applied to
the data.
Raw Mode sampling collects samples at up to 500 Hz,
from one sensor. Math operations and averaging are
not available, but Raw Mode is useful for high fre-
quency applications.
The optional Global Positioning System (GPS) can
provide GPS data for viewing or logging.
The weather resistant console is constructed from ABS
plastic with a rubber seal between the two halves. The
rubber seal also serves as a shock cushion to protect
the instrument from impact.
1-1LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger

Section 1. Introduction to the LI-1500
What's what
If you just received your LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger, check the packaging list to
verify that you received everything that was ordered. Each LI-1500 should include
the following items:
Description Qty. Part #
LI-1500 Light Sensor Data Logger 1 -
Without GPS Antenna - 9915-003
With GPS Antenna - 9915-004
USB Mini B Dust Cover 1 340-10566
LI-1500 Accessory Kit 1 9915-001
5P A/Mini-B USB Cable 6' 1 392-07872
AC-DC USB Power Supply 5V/1A 1 591-14516
USB Power Supply Prong Kit 1 591-14544
Carabiner Clip 1 610-10456
1.5V Alkaline Size "AA" Batteries 4 442-00854
Table 1-1. LI-1500 parts list.
Powering the LI-1500
The LI-1500 Light Sensor logger uses four "AA" size batteries. AC power (mains)
may also be used, but "AA" batteries should be installed to prevent data loss in case
AC power is interrupted during logging. An internal lithium cell battery maintains
clock settings when "AA" batteries are depleted or absent. The lithium backup bat-
tery can last up to seven years. For replacement instructions, see Replacing the
internal lithium battery on page6-2. The AC power supply adapter will not charge
the batteries.
Install batteries
Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws that secure the battery cover
on the back of the instrument. Push the rubber gasket aside to access hidden screw.
Install four "AA" batteries. Observe proper polarity when installing batteries. Reat-
tach the cover.
1-2 LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger

Figure 1-1. "AA" batteries installed.
Low battery indicator
A "Low Battery" message appears along with an audible warning "beep" when the
"AA" battery voltage drops to 4.0 V or below. The power will turn off when the
voltage drops to 3.8 V. Battery voltage can be viewed in Monitor Mode (Monitor
mode navigation on page2-3).
AC power
The LI-1500 can be powered with AC (mains) power. Plug the AC to DC power
supply adapter into a wall outlet supplying AC power. Plug the USB cable into the
adapter. Plug the other end of the USB cable into the Mini USB port at the top end
of the LI-1500. Batteries will not be charged by the USB power.
Figure 1-2. Mini USB port for data transfer and for optional AC power.
Section 1. Introduction to the LI-1500
1-3Low battery indicator

Section 1. Introduction to the LI-1500
Cable connections
The mini USB port at the top end of the LI-1500 serves as the data transfer and
power connection.
Data cable connection
The LI-1500 communicates with a computer through a USB cable connected to a
mini USB port. The computer will identify the LI-1500 as a mass storage device
named LI-1500.
Light sensor input ports
Figure 1-3. Light sensor input ports
The three BNC bulkhead input ports at
the bottom end of the LI-1500 are for con-
necting LI-COR light sensors with BNC
terminations. The input ports are labeled
1,2, and 3. They are identified as INPUT1,
INPUT2, and INPUT3 in the user inter-
face.
Memory
The LI-1500 is equipped with 1 GB of non-volatile flash memory. The instrument
stores data on an internal Secure Digital (SD) card. The format for the SD card is
FAT16. Do not modify the card in any way when connected to a computer, and
never remove or replace the card unless it is with a card purchased from LI-COR
(part number 616-10387). If you need to use a user-supplied SD card for any
reason, contact LI-COR for formatting instructions. Table 1-2 on the facing page
shows how many days it takes to fill the memory. When the memory is full, the
device issues an error message: Routine Stopped: Out of Storage Space.
1-4 LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger

Sampling Rate Number of Days (Normal1) Number of Days (Raw2)
1 per hour 12,500 N/A
1 per minute 2083 N/A
1 per 10 seconds 347.22 N/A
1 Hz (1 per second) 34.72 253.13
2 Hz (2 per seconds) 17.36 126.56
5 Hz (5 per second) 6.94 50.62
10 Hz (10 per second) 3.47 25.31
20 Hz (20 per second) 1.74 12.65
500 Hz (500 per second) N/A 0.506
Table 1-2. Approximate number days at each sampling rate until the instrument
memory is full in both normal and raw sample modes (with each sample logged).
Precautions
The LI-1500 is weather resistant, but the following environmental limitations
should be observed:
lIf the LI-1500 is to be left outdoors and unattended for long periods of time, it
should be installed in a protective enclosure or sheltered location. Install the
protective plug in the USB port when the port is not in use.
lExposure to direct sun decreases battery life and can cause battery leaks if the
internal temperature exceeds the battery manufacturer's specifications. Cold tem-
peratures can also significantly decrease battery life.
Maintenance
The LI-1500 is designed for low maintenance and generally requires little servicing
beyond keeping it clean and replacing the batteries.
lCleaning: The instrument display and keypad can be cleaned with a moistened
non-abrasive cloth when necessary.
lStorage: When storing the LI-1500 for a long period of time, remove the "AA"
batteries.
1Six light outputs and 15 Math outputs with GPS enabled
2One light output and no GPS
Section 1. Introduction to the LI-1500
1-5Precautions

Section 1. Introduction to the LI-1500
1-6 LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger

Section 2.
The basics
This section describes how to use the LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger keyboard, nav-
igate the user interface, and change console settings.
Powering On and Off
Press the power ON/OFF key to turn on the LI-1500. You will see one of these
messages:
1New Config File: Start at step 2 under Creating a configuration on page3-3.
2Select Config File: Scroll up or down to highlight a configuration. Press OK to activate the
highlighted configuration and enter monitor mode (Monitor mode navigation on page2-3).
Note: You must add sensor information and create and activate a configuration
in order to receive light readings (Configuring the LI-1500 on page3-1).
Press the power ON/OFF key to turn off the LI-1500.
Keypad
The LI-1500 features a 22-button tactile
response keypad. The upper block of
nine keys are used to navigate through
menus, select menu options, and log
data. Basic functions of the upper nine
keys are described in Table 2-1 on the
next page.
2-1LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger

Section 2. The basics
The Menu key goes to the
Main Menu from Monitor
Mode or sorts lists of names.
The Up and Down arrow keys are
used to navigate through menu
options or monitor mode lines
and increment or decrement
values in some fields.
The Exit key returns to the
previous screen.
The OK key selects the
highlighted menu field. It also
saves a setting, file name, or
other data.
Right and Left arrow keys change
line variables in monitor mode
and scroll through menu sub-
levels. If a toggle field is active,
they toggle the setting. They also
serve as space and backspace
keys.
The START/STOP key initiates
or terminates a logging
session.
When in the manual logging
mode, the LOG key records a
reading of all connected
sensors (and GPS if enabled).
Table 2-1. Functions of the upper nine keys.
The lower block of 12 keys are used to enter alphanumeric characters. Each key is
used to enter the letters and numbers indicated by the label on the key. The 22nd
key is the power on/off key at the top left of the keypad. The period key is also used
to initiate remark entries during logging sessions (Logging data on page4-1).
Numbered keys (1–9) are also used to record GPS data during logging sessions
(GPS tagging on page2-6).
When using the alphanumeric keys, each key press cycles through the alpha-
numeric characters on that key (e.g. pressing the '1' key cycles through a, b, c, and
1 in a continuous loop). The cycle continues until a different button is pressed, or
until one second has passed without a key press. Some fields can only accept
numeric or alphabetic characters. The right arrow key is used to enter spaces and
the left arrow key functions as a backspace key in alphanumeric fields.
2-2 LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger

Adjusting display brightness
The LI-1500 display is a 128 x 64 LCD graphics display. It displays alphanumeric
characters. To adjust the display contrast, hold the minus(-) key and press the up or
down arrow keys.
Monitor mode navigation
Figure 2-1. Monitor Mode screen.
After the LI-1500 is powered on and a
configuration is chosen or created, the
Monitor Mode screen (at right) is dis-
played. Monitor Mode consists of eight
user-selectable lines of real-time inform-
ation (variables). Each line of the Monitor
Mode screen can be set to display any of
the variables shown in the table below.
Section 2. The basics
2-3Adjusting display brightness

Section 2. The basics
Variable Name Description
NA Date (YYYY/MM/DD) and Time (HH/MM/SS)
Battery: Indicates USB power or battery voltage and percentage level
CONFIG: Name of active configuration (or <none> if there is not one active)
STATUS: Routine status
[Output List] Any Light or Math outputs each have a line for real-time data display
[Prompt List] If there are any prompts, each has a line
MULT_[input #]: If Prompt on Log is enabled, indicates Air or Water multiplier in effect
gLAT: GPS Latitude
gLONG: GPS Longitude
gALT: GPS Altitude
gNSATS: Number of satellites visible and HDOP (Horizontal Dilution of
Precision)
gDATE: GPS UTC Date (YYYY:MM:DD)
gTIME: GPS UTC Time (HH:MM:SS)
Blank line
Table 2-2. Variables that can be displayed in Monitor Mode.
To change variables on the display, press the up or down arrow key to select
a line. The active line will be highlighted for about one second. Press the right or
left arrow keys to scroll through available variables.
Menu navigation
Figure 2-2. Main Menu screen.
Navigation through menus is accom-
plished with the upper block of nine keys.
lFrom monitor mode, Press the MENU
key to view the main menu.
lScroll up and down to high-
light a menu option. Press OK to
select the highlighted menu option.
lPress OK after entering file names or
other data.
lPress EXIT to go back to the previous screen.
2-4 LI-1500 Light Sensor Logger