Lowell TCM Series User manual

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 © 2014-2022 Lowell Instruments, LLC
Universal User Guide
for
TCM-x Current Meters,
MAT-1 Data Logger
and
Domino Software
Lowell Instruments, LLC
82 Technology Park Dr.
East Falmouth, MA 02536
www.lowellinstruments.com
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 2
Contents
Contents................................................................................................................................2
1 Introduction....................................................................................................................5
1.1 How to use this manual.......................................................................................................5
2 Getting Started...............................................................................................................6
2.1 Installing Software ..............................................................................................................6
2.2 Connect to the Logger .........................................................................................................6
2.3 Create a Setup File ..............................................................................................................7
2.4 Save File on MAT-1 Logger drive ..........................................................................................8
2.5 Communicating with the Logger ..........................................................................................9
2.6 Check the Logger’s Status and Set the Clock.......................................................................10
2.7 Start the Logger.................................................................................................................11
2.8 Demo Deployment ............................................................................................................11
2.9 Stop Logging and Saving Data ............................................................................................12
2.10 Convert Data.....................................................................................................................13
2.11 View Data .........................................................................................................................15
3 TCM Tilt Current Meters................................................................................................17
3.1 Theory of Operation..........................................................................................................17
3.2 Typical Tilt Current Meter Settings.....................................................................................18
3.3 Anchoring Guidelines ........................................................................................................20
3.4 Other Deployment Considerations.....................................................................................22
3.5 Data Retrieval and Conversion...........................................................................................23
4 TCM-1 Tilt Current Meter ..............................................................................................24
4.1 Assembling the Current Meter (TCM-1 Only)......................................................................24
4.2 Selecting a Velocity Range (TCM-1 Only)............................................................................24
4.3 Deploying in an Inverted or Hanging Orientation (TCM-1 Only)...........................................25
4.3.1 Site Selection.......................................................................................................................................... 25
4.3.2 Mounting the Meter .............................................................................................................................. 25
4.3.3 Data Post Processing.............................................................................................................................. 29
5 Logging Modes & Setup File ..........................................................................................30
5.1 Deployment Description....................................................................................................31
5.2 Operational Indicator Control............................................................................................31

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 3
5.3 Presets..............................................................................................................................32
5.4 Creating a Preset...............................................................................................................34
5.5 Enabling and Disabling Logging Channels ...........................................................................34
5.6 Recording Rate & Burst Mode............................................................................................34
5.7Temperature.....................................................................................................................35
5.8 Start and Stop Times .........................................................................................................35
6 Device Information .......................................................................................................37
6.1 Device Status ....................................................................................................................37
6.2 Data and Clock Device Information ....................................................................................37
6.3 Device Information............................................................................................................38
6.4 Logger Control...................................................................................................................38
6.5 Real-Time or Most-Recent Data.........................................................................................38
6.6 Current Logger Settings .....................................................................................................38
7 Convert Files .................................................................................................................39
7.1 Output Type......................................................................................................................40
7.1.1 Discrete Channels................................................................................................................................... 40
7.1.2 Compass Heading................................................................................................................................... 41
7.1.3 Yaw/Pitch/Roll........................................................................................................................................ 41
7.1.4 Current (Tilt Current Meter) .................................................................................................................. 42
7.1.5 Cable Attitude (Tilt Current Meter) ....................................................................................................... 43
7.1.6 Vertical Orientation................................................................................................................................ 43
7.2 Output Options .................................................................................................................44
7.2.1 Output.................................................................................................................................................... 44
7.2.2 Time........................................................................................................................................................ 44
7.2.3 Calibration Coefficients –Advanced ...................................................................................................... 45
8 Sensor Information .......................................................................................................46
8.1 Sensor Orientation............................................................................................................46
8.2 Magnetometer..................................................................................................................46
8.3 Accelerometer ..................................................................................................................47
8.4 Thermistor........................................................................................................................47
9 Logger Maintenance .....................................................................................................47
9.1 O-Ring Care.......................................................................................................................47
9.2 Logger Housing Care..........................................................................................................48
9.3 SD Card.............................................................................................................................49

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 4
9.3.1 Ejecting the Card .................................................................................................................................... 49
9.3.2 Reformatting the SD Card ...................................................................................................................... 49
9.3.3 Card Type ............................................................................................................................................... 50
9.4 Battery Information ..........................................................................................................50
9.4.1 Battery Life ............................................................................................................................................. 51
9.4.2 Safe Shutdown ....................................................................................................................................... 51
9.4.3 Replacing the Battery & Desiccant......................................................................................................... 52
10 Trouble-Shooting the Logger and Software ...................................................................53
10.1 Firmware Updates.............................................................................................................54
10.2 Resetting the device..........................................................................................................55
10.3 Serial Number...................................................................................................................55
10.4 Repair Policy .....................................................................................................................55
10.5 Returning Products to Lowell Instruments .........................................................................55
10.5.1 Return Shipping Address ................................................................................................................... 55
11 Additional Information .................................................................................................57
11.1 Optional Accessories .........................................................................................................57
11.2 Contact Information..........................................................................................................57
11.3 Disclaimer.........................................................................................................................57

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 5
1Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of a TCM-x or MAT-1 from Lowell Instruments! We hope that your
new device serves you well for many years. We have attempted to include the “right amount” of detail
in this guide: not too much, not too little. But we also know that, even after a thorough reading, some
things may not be clear. Please feel free to contact us if you have questions.
1.1 How to use this manual
This user guide is intended for users of both the MAT-1 Data Logger and the TCM-x Current Meters. The
TCM-x Current Meters use a MAT-1 Data Logger as the “brains” of the meter and the material
substantially overlaps.
Both MAT-1 and TCM-x users should read Section 2 “Getting Started”. This section describes basic
operation of the hardware and software. Users of the TCMs will also want to read Section 3 “TCM
Current Meter” for instructions that are specific to operating current meters.

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 6
2Getting Started
2.1 Installing Software
The MAT-1 Data Logger requires that our Domino software be installed to operate the logger. It is highly
recommended that you install the software prior to connecting the logger to a USB port. Go to
www.lowellinstruments.com/downloads to get the latest version of Domino and follow the software
installation instructions. Domino is available both for Windows and macOS. (At the time of writing this
guide, the version for macOS is in beta test. Check the website for a list of known issues.3)
Tip: On Mac OS, Domino must be placed in Applications for it to run.
2.2 Connect to the Logger
Remove the end cap of the logger by unscrewing it. Connect the USB cable to your computer and
connect the other end of the cable to the logger. Windows should automatically find the logger and
connect to it. (See “Troubleshooting” if Windows does not succeed in loading the drivers automatically.)
Tip: The USB cable used with the MAT-1 logger is the same type of cable that is commonly used by many
Android smart phones. If you lose your cable you can purchase a replacement at many stores.
Caution: The logger will be
damaged if water enters the
housing. Keep the O-ring clean
and free from dust, hair and dirt.
See “O-ring Care” for more
information.
This end is permanently sealed.
Do not attempt to open.
Unscrew this end.
USB micro-B Port
Micro SD Card

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 7
2.3 Create a Setup File
The logger uses a setup file to operate. The setup file is stored on the logger’s microSD card and contains
the settings that the logger will use when it is instructed to start logging: enabled/disabled channels,
recording intervals, start and stop times etc.
Open Domino and select the “Setup” icon to open the Setup File screen. You will use this screen to
create a setup file. Start by entering a description and choose either a preset or choose your specific
logging parameters. If this is your first test, keep it simple. Follow the example below:
1. Setup Tab
3. Logging Parameters
4. Save File
2. Default settings

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 8
Tip: The description is limited to 15 characters and may only contain alpha-numeric characters, dashes,
underscores and spaces. The description will become part of the data file name when the deployment is
complete.
See “Typical Tilt Current Meter Settings” (in Section 3) for specific instructions on creating a setup file
for use with a tilt current meter.
2.4 Save File on MAT-1 Logger drive
Click “Save Setup File…,” and navigate to your logger’s USB drive. If you are using a microSD card
supplied by Lowell Instruments, the drive will be labeled “MAT_LOGGER”. It is essential that the setup
file be named “MAT.cfg” and be saved on the logger’s SD card. The logger will look for this file when you
instruct the logger to start recording data (in the next step) and it will load the values that you saved in
the file. The logger will not start if the MAT.cfg file is missing. Note: on Windows, your computer may
hide the .cfg from the name of the setup file after it has been created, and the folder will simply contain
“MAT”. This will not impact the operation of the device or software.
Tip: If you have multiple loggers that you want to configure in the same way, it may be convenient to
save this file on your hard drive and copy it to the other SD cards.
1. MAT Logger Drive
2. Save File

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 9
2.5 Communicating with the Logger
When the logger connects for the first time it will be stopped. Navigate to the “Device” tab. The tab will
show connection and device status.
Logger is not collecting data.
Connection status

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 10
2.6 Check the Logger’s Status and Set the Clock
The software should now be connected to the logger and will display sensor readings and logger
information. Follow these steps to start the logger:
1. Set the logger’s clock by synchronizing it to the computer’s clock.
2. Check the sensor readings for current readings.
3. Check the current logger settings
1. Click to Set Clock
2. Check sensors and other real-time data
3. Check Logger Settings

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 11
2.7 Start the Logger
Click “Start Running” to command the logger to start recording measurements. The logger will pause for
a moment and then start to record data according to the settings that were saved in the setup file on
the microSD card. Wait for the status to change from Device Stopped to Device Running. The
MAT_LOGGER drive will close automatically.
Note: on Macs the drive may not eject—this won’t impact the function, but do not try to open or modify
the drive while the logger is running as this will cause problems!
Tip: Check that your computer’s clock is accurate by navigating to www.time.gov. If it is off by more than
a few seconds, check that your computer is being automatically updated by a NIST time server.
2.8 Demo Deployment
The logger is now collecting data. You can disconnect the USB cable, replace the cap, and “deploy”it.
For a simple demo, slowly roll the logger across a flat surface or swing it with your arm.
1. Click “Start Running”
2. Status will change to “Device Running”

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 12
2.9 Stop Logging and Saving Data
Reconnect the USB and wait for the software to automatically connect. Click “Stop Running.” Navigate
to the MAT_LOGGER drive on your computer. The file name will have the serial number pre-pended to
your deployment description. Copy the data file to a working folder on your computer.
Tip: There are two reasons to copy your data file to a working folder rather than leaving it on the SD
card. The first is that by copying the data you have a backup copy, reducing the chance of loss. The
second is that the next step, “Converting Data,” will be much faster if you are working from a hard drive
rather than relying on the MAT-1 logger’s relatively low-speed USB connection.
1. Select Drive
2. Copy this File to a Local
Drive

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 13
2.10 Convert Data
The MAT-1 logger stores data in a binary format that cannot be directly used by third-party tools; it must
be converted to text first. Switch to the “Convert” tab. There are several format options but for this test
simply click on “Add File” and select the data file that you saved in your working folder.
1. Select “Convert”
2. Click “Add File”

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 14
With the file added, your screen should look like this. You can add multiple files to the conversion
queue. When all the files you wish to convert have been added, click on “Convert” and the files will be
converted.
Tip: The output files will be substantially larger than the binary file. Large files may be difficult or
impossible to open with some applications. In the future, if you have a large file, you may want to use
the option to split the file during data conversion.
Tip: You may convert the same file as many times as you like in different formats (Discreet Channels,
Roll/Pitch/Yaw, etc.). The binary file will be preserved during the conversion.
The files you wish to
convert
Press “Convert”

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 15
2.11 View Data
Domino by default will convert the binary file into two .csv files that can be easily opened with Microsoft
Excel or a similar application. The files are saved in the same directory as the binary file that was
converted. One file will contain the magnetometer and accelerometer data and the other will contain
the temperature data.
Tip: Always save a copy of the binary file. It is tempting to delete the binary file once the conversion is
complete but it is not a good idea. The binary file contains information about the deployment that is not
copied to the spreadsheet. In the event of a problem, the binary file is an essential for debugging and
backup.
The file with the magnetometer and acceleration data should look something like this:
If you plot some data with your favorite plotting software, it might look like this:

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 16
If you’ve made it this far, congratulations, you know the basics! This concludes the “Getting Started”
section. The remaining sections of this guide contain additional detail about the logger and software.

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 17
3TCM Tilt Current Meters
(The following section applies only to TCM Current Meters. Users of the MAT-1 Data Logger for non-
current related measurements may want to skip this section.)
3.1 Theory of Operation
All TCM-x meters measure current using the drag-tilt principle. Typically, the logger is buoyant and is
anchored to the bottom via a short flexible tether. Drag from moving water tilts the logger in the
direction of flow. The MAT-1 data logger’s accelerometer and magnetometer channels are used to
record the amount of tilt and direction of tilt (compass bearing).
Ideally, for constant water velocity, the buoyancy, drag, gravity and anchor line tension are all in balance
and the tilt angle and direction are static. In practice, even in ideal conditions, the position of the meter
is not static. Vortex shedding induces oscillation in the TCM. Vortex shedding is normal and is factored
into the calibration of the meter but it must be recorded. In the field turbulence and waves add
additional motion. Fortunately, oscillations are relatively easy to filter out by taking multiple
measurements and determining the average tilt and bearing.
The frequency over time of vortex shedding varies with water speed and model number but is in the
range of 0.5 to 2 Hz. To avoid aliasing, the meter should be configured to sample at least two complete
oscillations: a minimum of 4 samples per second for at least 4 seconds but we normally record a
minimum of 8 Hz for 10 seconds. (Additional consideration should be made for waves, turbulence and
improved accuracy.)
Domino is used to configure the logger to record in “Burst Mode” prior to deployment and it is used
again after the deployment to post process the data file and calculate the average speed and direction
per interval.

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 18
3.2 Typical Tilt Current Meter Settings
The “brains” of the tilt current meter is the MAT-1 data logger. The MAT-1 has the ability to use a “burst
mode” recording interval (see below). This figure highlights the three “burst mode” parameters that are
saved to the MAT.cfg file and are used to configure the TCM for a wide range of environments.
Burst Logging sets the logger to alternate between rapid sampling and sleep mode. Burst Logging allows
for accurate measurements while conserving battery life. For example, a typical configuration would
have the meter wake up every minute, record at 8 Hz for 20 seconds and then sleep for 40 seconds. The
result of this setup would be 160 samples recorded every minute. After the deployment is complete, the
160 samples will be post processed into 1-minute velocity records. Thus, in this example, each velocity
measurement is an average of 160 samples taken over a 20 second period.
Typical settings for a TCM deployment. The burst mode parameters are circled.

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 19
Burst Interval: This parameter sets the measurement interval. Each current measurement is comprised
of a series (or a “burst”) of measurements. The Burst Interval is the length of time between the start of
any two intervals. Typically, the Burst Interval is set between 1 and 5 minutes, providing high temporal
resolution data that can be post-processed into longer intervals if desired.
Burst Rate: This parameter sets the rate at which samples are recorded during the “burst”. Even in ideal
conditions, the meter oscillates with a period of 2-4 seconds. Thus, to record the average tilt and
bearing more than one measurement is required. The minimum recommended burst rate is 4 Hz, with 8
Hz typical. 16 Hz is recommended for more energetic environments with waves.
Burst Duration: This parameter sets the length of time that the accelerometer and magnetometer
sample at the burst rate. To obtain an accurate average, the burst duration should be at least twice the
period of any oscillation in the system. As previously mentioned, our TCMs oscillate with periods of 2-4
seconds. The recommended minimum burst duration is 10 seconds, with 15 seconds more typical. If
there is a dominant swell, the burst duration should be increased to 30-60 seconds depending on the
swell period.
Temperature: Enable the temperature channel for reference and for temperature compensation of the
magnetometer.
Note that all three of these settings impact battery life. The MAT-1 will run for many months with typical
settings before battery failure (memory is never the limiting factor). However, running continuously at
the maximum rate will reduce the battery life to as little as 6 weeks.

Universal User Guide, Rev L, February 2022 20
Table 1: Recommended settings for TCM-1 deployments in three typical environments.
Configuration
Temperature
(minute)
Burst
Interval
(minute)
Burst
Rate
(Hz)
Burst
Duration
(seconds)
Start Time
Stop
Time
Notes
Typical
1
1
8
20
On Next
Minute
Until
Stopped
Suitable for most
environments,
high temporal
resolution with
moderate
filtering. 12 to 14
month typical
battery life
Swells
2
2
8
45
On Next
Minute
Until
Stopped
Recommended for
locations with
swells with a
period of up to 10
seconds. 10 to 12
month typical
battery life
Energetic /
Turbulence
1
1
16
30
On Next
Hour
Until
Stopped
Recommended for
areas near surf
zones or other
very turbulent
locations. 5 to 6
month typical
battery life.
Increase burst
duration to 30
seconds.
3.3 Anchoring Guidelines
Tilt current meters are sensitive to how they are anchored. For best results follow these guidelines.
1. Typical and reliable anchors:
•12 or 18-inch square concrete patio stones (30 x 30 x 5 cm or 45 x 45 x 5 cm)
•Cinder block
•Lead disk weights
•Dive belt weights
2. For concrete anchors typical weights are between 9 and 15 Kg. Lead weights between 5 and 10
Kg.
3. Avoid anchors made from large amounts of steel or iron; they will create soft and/or hard iron
errors in the compass bearing.
4. Set the lanyard length to 1/2 to 1” (13-25 mm) between the anchor and the TCM.