METER ZL6 User manual

ZL6

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction.............................................................................................. 1
2. Operation ...................................................................................................2
2.1 Installation ................................................................................................2
2.2 Interfacing with ZL6 Using a Computer...................................................... 5
2.2.1 Configuration ...................................................................................5
2.2.2 Cellular Communication Test ........................................................ 10
2.2.3 Instantaneous Sensor Measurements Scan................................... 10
2.2.4 Data Download .............................................................................. 11
2.2.5 Data Deletion ................................................................................. 11
2.3 Interfacing with ZL6 Using a Smartphone................................................ 12
3. System....................................................................................................... 13
3.1 Specifications.......................................................................................... 13
3.2 ZL6 Hardware Components...................................................................... 14
3.2.1 Sensor Interface ............................................................................ 15
3.2.2 Sensor Measurement Interval........................................................ 16
3.2.3 Test Button .................................................................................... 16
3.2.4 Status Lights ................................................................................. 17
3.2.5 Batteries ....................................................................................... 17
3.2.6 GPS Receiver.................................................................................. 18
3.2.7 Timekeeping .................................................................................. 18
3.2.8 Data Storage .................................................................................. 19
3.2.9 Cellular Communications............................................................... 19
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7.19.2019

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4. ZENTRA Software................................................................................ 20
4.1 ZENTRA Utility ........................................................................................ 20
4.2 Button Toolbar ......................................................................................... 21
4.2.1 Data Logger Identification Area ..................................................... 21
4.2.2 Active Sensors and Measurements Area........................................ 22
4.2.3 Status Bar...................................................................................... 22
4.2.4 Menu Bar........................................................................................ 22
4.2.5 Manage Settings Dialog ................................................................. 28
4.3 ZENTRA Cloud.......................................................................................... 32
5. Service ..................................................................................................... 34
5.1 Maintenance............................................................................................ 34
5.2 Troubleshooting....................................................................................... 35
5.3 Customer Support.................................................................................... 37
5.4 Terms and Conditions .............................................................................. 37
Appendix A. Compliance Certifications ........................................ 38
Index ................................................................................................................. 41

1
1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing the ZL6 data logger from METER Group.
The ZL6 loggers are part of the ZENTRA System, a collection of data loggers, software, and
compatible sensors to measure environmental parameters accurately and cost effectively.
Please refer to ZL6 specifications at metergroup.com/zl6-support for a list of supported
sensors.
The ZL6 is a self-contained, plug-and-play data logger for field research and commercial
agriculture. It is housed in a weather-resistant enclosure, making it suitable for long-term
outdoor operation. The logger includes built-in circuitry to charge nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)
batteries using energy from two integrated solar panels. The ZL6 can also be configured
through Bluetooth®wireless technology using ZENTRA Utility Mobile. Collected data are
transmitted to the ZENTRA Cloud web service via cellular communication.
Verify all instrument components are included and appear in good condition:
• ZL6 series logger
• Device subscription sticker (inside the logger)
• Six rechargeable NiMH batteries
• Micro-USB communications cable
• UV-stable plastic zip ties
• Stainless steel zip ties
• USB drive containing ZENTRA Utility software installer
• Spare parts kit, including an additional gasket and thumb screw

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OPERATION
2. OPERATION
This section explains the basic workflow of logger installation, logger configuration, and data
download. Please read all instructions before operating the ZL6 to ensure it performs to its
full potential. Consider testing the ZL6 and sensors in a lab or office prior to field installation
to verify the correct operation of the system.
The ZL6 can serve as a data collection station for as many as six sensors. It is designed for
plug-and-play setup with all METER sensors, including the ATMOS weather sensors, TEROS
soil moisture sensors, HYDROS water sensors, PHYTOS leaf sensors, and ECH2O soil moisture
sensors. Please refer to the individual sensor manuals for sensor installation instructions.
NOTE: Never immerse the ZL6 in liquids or bury the ZL6. This and other misuse, improper protection, or improper
installation may damage the ZL6 and void the warranty.
2.1 INSTALLATION
Follow the steps listed in Table 1 to set up the ZL6 and start collecting data.
Table 1 Installation
Tools Needed
Microsoft®Windows®or Apple®Mac®computer for ZENTRA Utility
Apple®iPhone®(iOS 9.0 or newer) or Google AndroidTM smartphone
(Android4.3 or newer) for ZENTRA Utility Mobile
Mounting post (or similar)
Preparation
Install ZENTRA Utility or ZENTRA Utility Mobile
To install ZENTRA Utility on a computer:
• Use the included USB drive to install ZENTRA Utility:
- On a Windows computer, open the My Computer window, select the USB
drive, and double click on ZENTRA Utility PC Installer.exe.
- On a Mac computer, using Finder®, select the USB drive, and double click on
ZENTRA Utility Mac Installer.pkg.
• Alternatively, use the ZENTRA Utility Installer link on the ZL6 webpage
(metergroup.com/ZL6-support).
The installer automatically installs the necessary USB driver for the ZL6.
To install ZENTRA Utility Mobile on a smartphone:
• Open the app store.
• Search for ZENTRA Utility Mobile.
• Download the application.
Install Batteries
NOTE: Alkaline batteries will not be recharged by the solar battery charger.
The status lights will eventually settle to a green short, single blink every 5 s,
signaling it is ready for use.

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ZL6
Table 1 Installation (continued)
Configuration
Configure the ZL6 Using ZENTRA Utility
NOTE: This step can also be done in the field.
Connect the micro-USB cable to a computer and logger.
Open ZENTRA Utility and select Connect (Section2.2).
Set the measurement interval and verify the ZL6 is correctly configured for the
sensors that will be installed.
NOTE: Configuration using ZENTRA Utility Mobile is addressed in Section2.3.
Field Installation
Select Location
Choose a location and orientation to give the solar panel the maximum amount
of sunlight. In the northern hemisphere, this will typically mean the data logger
will face south; in the southern hemisphere, this will typically mean the data
logger will face north.
Additional location considerations may include vegetation cover throughout the
season, distance from power lines, minimal livestock, etc.
NOTE: If the location is in an area where solar energy harvesting is minimal, alkaline
batteries will power the logger longer than the NiMH batteries when not being recharged
by the solar panel. The ZL6 does not charge alkaline batteries.
Evaluate how surroundings may attenuate the cellular signal. Do not install the
ZL6 near large metallic objects.
Check Cellular Communication Quality
Use ZENTRA Utility to check the quality of the cellular signal (Section2.2.2).
If the signal is low or cellular test fails, move to an alternative location
(sometimes moving only a few meters is sufficient).
Fasten Logger to Mounting Post
Use the loopholes on the top and bottom of the logger enclosure to mount the
ZL6 to a post using the zip ties or a similar fastener (such as hose clamps).
Ensure the logger is installed in an upright position to reduce the possibility of
water entering the ZL6 enclosure.
NOTE: The ZL6 case is water resistant, not waterproof. In extremely wet environments or
environments with prolonged high humidity, place a desiccant packet inside the logger or
enclose the logger in a waterproof case.

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OPERATION
Table 1 Installation (continued)
Field Installation
(continued)
Install Sensors
Install each sensor as directed in the sensor user manual.
Thread cables near the ground through conduit or plastic cladding to avoid
rodent damage.
Plug the sensor stereo plug connectors firmly into the ZL6 input ports.
Put each cable in the corresponding strain relief hook and use thumb screws to
tighten strain relief hook.
Perform instantaneous scan to ensure sensors are working properly
(Section2.2.3).
NOTE: The spare parts bag was designed to be stored in the logger to be available
ifneeded.

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ZL6
2.2 INTERFACING WITH ZL6 USING A COMPUTER
Download ZENTRA Utility onto your computer before going to the field.
2.2.1 CONFIGURATION
The measurement interval and sensor types must be set before data will be stored by
thelogger.
To configure the ZL6 in ZENTRA Utility, refer to the following steps:
1. Plug the micro-USB cable into the logger USB port and the computer USB port.
2. Open the ZENTRA Utility application (Figure1).
Figure1 ZENTRA Utility initial screen
3. On the ZENTRA Utility main screen, select the appropriate COM port from the dropdown
menu (Figure2). If the logger designation does not appear, try a different port or cable.

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OPERATION
Figure2 COM port dropdown
4. Click the Connect button next to the COM port dropdown menu (Figure2).
Once successfully connected, ZENTRA Utility displays the instantaneous sensor
measurements from the ZL6 (Figure3).
Figure3 ZENTRA Utility showing a connected ZL6 and its instantaneous measurements