Observator Instruments OMC-042 User manual

OMC-042 & OMC-043 & OMC-044
Low power 2G/3G/4G data loggers
Title
:
User Manual OMC-042, OMC-043, OMC-044
Date
:
April-2021
Version
:
FW 2.4

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 2
WARNING
THE FOLLOWING OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ARE FOR USE BY QUALIFIED
PERSONNEL ONLY. TO AVOID DAMAGE OR MALFUNCTION, DO NOT PERFORM
ANY OPERATING OTHER THAN THAT CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL. ANY
OPERATOR SHOULD BE SKILLED WITH A TECHNCAL BACKGROUND BEFORE
OPERATING THE DEVICE.
PREFACE
Congratulations!
With your purchase of an Observator Instruments Low Power data logger with mobile network
capabilities.
This manual describes the operation and (hardware) installation of the OMC-042/043/044 data logger.
The chapter Getting Started briefly describes the data logger, prepares you to install it, and tells you how
to put it into operation.
The Chapter Operating Basics covers basic principles of operation of the data logger. The operating
interface (menu) and the tutorial examples, rapidly help you to understand how your data logger operates.
The Chapter Reference teaches you how to perform specific tasks and provides a complete list of
operating tasks and useful background information.
The Appendices provide a list with all available options, and other useful information.
We recommend you to read this manual carefully before installation of the data logger.
Warranty
All Observator Instruments products are warranted for 1 years against defective materials and
workmanship. Any questions with respect to the warranty mentioned above should be taken up with your
Observator Instruments Distributor.

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 3
Table of Contents
Product Description ...................................................................................................................................... 9
Models and Editions................................................................................................................................ 10
OMC-042............................................................................................................................................. 10
OMC-043............................................................................................................................................. 11
OMC-044............................................................................................................................................. 12
Getting started............................................................................................................................................ 13
Vibration.................................................................................................................................................. 13
Do’s and Don’ts ................................................................................................................................... 13
Inserting the SIM-card............................................................................................................................. 13
Power on for the First time...................................................................................................................... 14
Connect to a PC...................................................................................................................................... 14
Operating Basics ........................................................................................................................................ 15
Configuration menu................................................................................................................................. 15
Reference ................................................................................................................................................... 23
Principle of Operation.............................................................................................................................. 23
Sample interval.................................................................................................................................... 23
Data logging interval............................................................................................................................ 23
Send Interval ....................................................................................................................................... 23
Send delay........................................................................................................................................... 23
Example............................................................................................................................................... 23
Parameters.............................................................................................................................................. 25
Name................................................................................................................................................... 25
Code.................................................................................................................................................... 25
Unit ...................................................................................................................................................... 25
Value factor ......................................................................................................................................... 25
Value offset.......................................................................................................................................... 25
Decimals.............................................................................................................................................. 25
Data log............................................................................................................................................... 25
Data transpond.................................................................................................................................... 25
Alarm SMS .......................................................................................................................................... 25
Alarm log ............................................................................................................................................. 25
Alarm output........................................................................................................................................ 26
Alarm limits and delays ....................................................................................................................... 26
Configuration Menu Settings................................................................................................................... 27
Date & Time......................................................................................................................................... 27
System Information ............................................................................................................................. 27
Configuration Setup ................................................................................................................................ 28
General Settings ..................................................................................................................................... 28
Exit....................................................................................................................................................... 28
System Name...................................................................................................................................... 29
Datalog interval.................................................................................................................................... 29
Normal mode ................................................................................................................................... 29
Alarm mode...................................................................................................................................... 29
Timestamp round down....................................................................................................................... 29
Continuous Alarm Sampling (OMC-043/044 only).............................................................................. 29
Digital Alarm output port (OMC-043), or Use module power as alarm output (OMC-042)................. 29
Deployment Date and Time................................................................................................................. 30
Daily operating time slot (OMC-043/044 only) .................................................................................... 30
Time zone............................................................................................................................................ 30
Summer time....................................................................................................................................... 30
Modem Settings...................................................................................................................................... 31
Provider Selection ............................................................................................................................... 31
Access Point Name (APN) .................................................................................................................. 31
APN Authentication ............................................................................................................................. 31
Network signal test.............................................................................................................................. 31

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 4
APN login test...................................................................................................................................... 32
NTP time update..................................................................................................................................... 32
Time Update........................................................................................................................................ 32
Update interval .................................................................................................................................... 32
Server.................................................................................................................................................. 32
NTP Port.............................................................................................................................................. 32
Time update test.................................................................................................................................. 32
Alarm SMS.............................................................................................................................................. 32
System Alarm SMS ............................................................................................................................. 32
Data Alarm SMS.................................................................................................................................. 32
SMS Commands..................................................................................................................................... 32
ACVA SMS.......................................................................................................................................... 32
Internal Sensors...................................................................................................................................... 33
Name................................................................................................................................................... 33
Sample interval.................................................................................................................................... 33
Battery Capacity.................................................................................................................................. 33
Battery Replaced................................................................................................................................. 33
Rest Capacity...................................................................................................................................... 33
Rest power .......................................................................................................................................... 33
Processor Temperature....................................................................................................................... 33
Average Voltage.................................................................................................................................. 34
Max Voltage......................................................................................................................................... 34
Min Voltage.......................................................................................................................................... 34
Average, Max, Min current .................................................................................................................. 34
Operating cycle.................................................................................................................................... 34
Free disk space................................................................................................................................... 34
Analog sensors (mA/V)........................................................................................................................... 35
Sensor power switch ........................................................................................................................... 35
Sample interval.................................................................................................................................... 35
Port mode.......................................................................................................................................... 35
Parameter settings .............................................................................................................................. 35
Value at 0/4-20 mA or 0-10 V.............................................................................................................. 35
Determine linear conversion function (2 calibration points) ................................................................ 35
Determine linear offset only (1 calibration point)................................................................................. 35
Digital Sensors- pulse input .................................................................................................................... 36
Sample interval.................................................................................................................................... 36
Port mode............................................................................................................................................ 36
Pull up.............................................................................................................................................. 36
Pull down ......................................................................................................................................... 37
Register mode..................................................................................................................................... 37
Units per pulse, or pulses per unit....................................................................................................... 37
Register value...................................................................................................................................... 37
Register Reset..................................................................................................................................... 37
Log each counter change.................................................................................................................... 37
Counter................................................................................................................................................ 37
Quantity............................................................................................................................................... 37
Mean-, Max- and Min Rate.................................................................................................................. 37
Digital Sensors- Alarm input ................................................................................................................... 38
Trigger delay........................................................................................................................................ 38
Register value...................................................................................................................................... 38
Network Signal Sensor ........................................................................................................................... 39
Independent data log........................................................................................................................... 39
Signal bars........................................................................................................................................... 39
Signal dB/%/indication/bit error rate.................................................................................................... 39
Aggregation Channels ............................................................................................................................ 40
Calculation Channels (OMC-043/044 only) ............................................................................................ 41
Syntax.................................................................................................................................................. 41

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 5
Functions............................................................................................................................................. 41
Example 1............................................................................................................................................ 42
Example 2............................................................................................................................................ 42
Supported mathematical functions with one argument:...................................................................... 42
abs(x)............................................................................................................................................... 42
sqrt(x)............................................................................................................................................... 42
ln(x).................................................................................................................................................. 42
exp(x)............................................................................................................................................... 42
sin(radians)...................................................................................................................................... 43
cos(radians)..................................................................................................................................... 43
tan(radians)...................................................................................................................................... 43
asin(x).............................................................................................................................................. 43
acos(x)............................................................................................................................................. 43
atan(x).............................................................................................................................................. 43
torad(degrees) ................................................................................................................................. 43
todeg(radians).................................................................................................................................. 43
floor(x).............................................................................................................................................. 43
ceil(x) ............................................................................................................................................... 43
round(x)............................................................................................................................................ 43
Supported mathematical functions with multiple arguments:.............................................................. 43
atan2(x;y)......................................................................................................................................... 43
mod(x;y)........................................................................................................................................... 43
pow(x;y) ........................................................................................................................................... 43
clip(x;min;max)................................................................................................................................. 43
Supported comparisons with 2 arguments:......................................................................................... 44
lt(x;y)................................................................................................................................................ 44
le(x;y)............................................................................................................................................... 44
gt(x;y)............................................................................................................................................... 44
ge(x;y).............................................................................................................................................. 44
Supported comparisons with 4 arguments:......................................................................................... 44
eq(x;y;q;p)........................................................................................................................................ 44
lt(x;y;q;p).......................................................................................................................................... 44
le(x;y;q;p)......................................................................................................................................... 44
gt(x;y;q;p)......................................................................................................................................... 44
ge(x;y;q;p)........................................................................................................................................ 44
Serial Port ............................................................................................................................................... 45
RS232.................................................................................................................................................. 45
Generic Modbus/RTU.......................................................................................................................... 45
Port Settings .................................................................................................................................... 45
Register type.................................................................................................................................... 46
Register Start address..................................................................................................................... 46
Data Type ........................................................................................................................................ 46
Generic Serial...................................................................................................................................... 47
Log raw data String.......................................................................................................................... 47
Decimal symbol................................................................................................................................ 47
Separator Character ........................................................................................................................ 47
Start/Stop character......................................................................................................................... 47
Output start command ..................................................................................................................... 47
Parameters ...................................................................................................................................... 47
Sentence filter.................................................................................................................................. 48
Field position.................................................................................................................................... 48
Field type ......................................................................................................................................... 48
Example:.......................................................................................................................................... 48
Generic NMEA..................................................................................................................................... 48
RS485.................................................................................................................................................. 49
SDI-12 ................................................................................................................................................. 49
Measurement command.................................................................................................................. 49

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 6
Parameters ...................................................................................................................................... 49
Accessory port ........................................................................................................................................ 50
Radio................................................................................................................................................... 50
......................................................................................................................................................... 50
Send interval.................................................................................................................................... 50
Send delay....................................................................................................................................... 50
Power down delay ........................................................................................................................... 50
Iridium Satellite.................................................................................................................................... 51
Iridium SBD Service......................................................................................................................... 51
Settings menu.................................................................................................................................. 52
Send interval.................................................................................................................................... 52
Data transpond ................................................................................................................................ 52
Backup mode................................................................................................................................... 52
GPS..................................................................................................................................................... 53
Minimum satellites to use ................................................................................................................ 53
Time to fix ........................................................................................................................................ 53
Position drift alarming ...................................................................................................................... 53
Calculate alarm limits on deployment......................................................................................... 53
Latitude/Longitude hi/lo alarm drift ............................................................................................. 54
Satellites .......................................................................................................................................... 54
Latitude / Longitude ......................................................................................................................... 54
GPS Quality..................................................................................................................................... 54
Camera................................................................................................................................................ 55
Display................................................................................................................................................. 56
Power down delay ........................................................................................................................... 56
DTU Connection (OMC-043/044 only).................................................................................................... 57
Port Settings........................................................................................................................................ 58
Sensor Power Switch .......................................................................................................................... 58
Connect interval................................................................................................................................... 58
Connection Delay................................................................................................................................ 58
Server.................................................................................................................................................. 58
TCP Port.............................................................................................................................................. 58
Client ID............................................................................................................................................... 58
Termination ID..................................................................................................................................... 58
Terminal Request ID ........................................................................................................................... 58
Email output............................................................................................................................................ 59
Server.................................................................................................................................................. 59
SMTP port ........................................................................................................................................... 59
Originator address............................................................................................................................... 59
Destination address............................................................................................................................. 59
Data format.......................................................................................................................................... 59
FTP Output.............................................................................................................................................. 60
Server.................................................................................................................................................. 60
FTP port............................................................................................................................................... 60
FTP mode............................................................................................................................................ 60
Directory.............................................................................................................................................. 60
Data format.......................................................................................................................................... 60
HTTP Output........................................................................................................................................... 61
Server.................................................................................................................................................. 61
TCP port.............................................................................................................................................. 61
Authentication...................................................................................................................................... 61
Data format.......................................................................................................................................... 61
Remote configuration transfer and firmware upgrade......................................................................... 61
TCP Output ............................................................................................................................................. 62
Server.................................................................................................................................................. 62
TCP port.............................................................................................................................................. 62
Authentication...................................................................................................................................... 62

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 7
Data format.......................................................................................................................................... 62
Satellite Output (SBD)............................................................................................................................. 62
Configuration Review.............................................................................................................................. 63
Parameter list ...................................................................................................................................... 63
Measurement list................................................................................................................................. 63
Alarm list.............................................................................................................................................. 64
Alarm limits.......................................................................................................................................... 64
Maintenance Menu.................................................................................................................................. 65
Field Testing........................................................................................................................................ 65
Verify Analog inputs......................................................................................................................... 65
Digital input test ............................................................................................................................... 65
SD card test..................................................................................................................................... 66
Battery test....................................................................................................................................... 66
Comport redirect.............................................................................................................................. 66
Data Download ................................................................................................................................ 67
Format SD Card............................................................................................................................... 67
Configuration Down/upload ............................................................................................................. 67
Firmware Upgrade........................................................................................................................... 68
Modem Maintenance ....................................................................................................................... 68
Bootloader Menu ............................................................................................................................. 68
SDI-12..................................................................................................................................................... 69
SDI-12 Hardware................................................................................................................................. 69
SDI-12 Wiring...................................................................................................................................... 69
SDI-12 Baud Rate and Frame Format ................................................................................................ 69
RS232 ..................................................................................................................................................... 70
RS485 ..................................................................................................................................................... 70
Analog Inputs (4..20mA) ......................................................................................................................... 72
Loop Powered Devices ....................................................................................................................... 72
Analog Inputs (0 .. 10 V) (OMC-043/044 only).................................................................................... 72
Analog Differential Inputs (OMC-042 only)............................................................................................. 72
Differential input ports theory of operation .......................................................................................... 72
Common mode noise rejection............................................................................................................ 72
Using Load Cells with the OMC-042................................................................................................... 73
Bridge of Wheatstone.......................................................................................................................... 73
Excitation Output................................................................................................................................. 73
Analog Differential input 5 ................................................................................................................... 74
Analog Differential input 6 ................................................................................................................... 74
Calibration of Differential inputs .......................................................................................................... 74
Overall Calibration............................................................................................................................... 74
Potmeter input (OMC-043/044 only)....................................................................................................... 75
Digital inputs............................................................................................................................................ 76
Pull up type.......................................................................................................................................... 76
Pull down type..................................................................................................................................... 76
Electrical specifications Digital inputs ................................................................................................. 76
Coil input ................................................................................................................................................. 76
Alarming.................................................................................................................................................. 77
Alarming - principal of operation.......................................................................................................... 77
Advanced Alarming (OMC-043/044 only) ........................................................................................... 79
Firmware Upgrade .................................................................................................................................. 80
When to use Firmware upgrades........................................................................................................ 80
Firmware upgrade procedure.............................................................................................................. 80
Firmware upgrade over the air............................................................................................................ 80
Firmware Driver limitations.................................................................................................................. 80
Power Switch Limitations .................................................................................................................... 81
Modem................................................................................................................................................. 81
Modem Firmware Upgrade.................................................................................................................. 81
SD-card................................................................................................................................................... 81

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 8
Inserting an SD-card ........................................................................................................................... 81
Native TXT Data Format......................................................................................................................... 82
Header:............................................................................................................................................ 82
Parameter Code: ............................................................................................................................. 82
Parameter Name: ............................................................................................................................ 82
Parameter Unit:................................................................................................................................ 82
D-Records ........................................................................................................................................... 82
Parameter Code: ............................................................................................................................. 83
Parameter value: ............................................................................................................................. 83
System records.................................................................................................................................... 84
Data Modifiers ..................................................................................................................................... 84
JSON Data Format.................................................................................................................................. 85
Input-drivers ............................................................................................................................................ 86
Analog sensors.................................................................................................................................... 86
Digital Pulse Sensor............................................................................................................................ 87
Example configuration Rain Measurement...................................................................................... 87
Counter............................................................................................................................................ 88
Quantity............................................................................................................................................ 88
Rate ................................................................................................................................................. 88
Power supply........................................................................................................................................... 89
Internal RTC backup battery ............................................................................................................... 89
Power consumption & Battery Life...................................................................................................... 89
Pin configuration......................................................................................................................................... 90
OMC-042................................................................................................................................................. 90
OMC-043................................................................................................................................................. 91
Pin descriptions....................................................................................................................................... 92
Analog Inputs....................................................................................................................................... 92
Analog Input 1 to 4 (OMC-042) or 1 to 2 (OMC-043)...................................................................... 92
Analog Input 3 to 4 (OMC-043)........................................................................................................ 92
Analog Input 5 (OMC-043)............................................................................................................... 92
Analog Input 5 to 8 (OMC-042 only)................................................................................................ 92
RS485 A & B ....................................................................................................................................... 92
Power Switch....................................................................................................................................... 92
VBAT +................................................................................................................................................ 92
RS232 RX & TX................................................................................................................................... 92
SDI-12 Hi............................................................................................................................................. 92
Digital inputs........................................................................................................................................ 92
+3V6.................................................................................................................................................... 93
Antenna placement and field strength................................................................................................. 93
Maintenance and Repair ............................................................................................................................ 94
RTC Lithium Battery replacement........................................................................................................... 94
Recalibration ........................................................................................................................................... 94
XRAY ...................................................................................................................................................... 94
Safety.......................................................................................................................................................... 95
Power supply........................................................................................................................................... 95
ESD......................................................................................................................................................... 95
Environment and disposal .......................................................................................................................... 96
Transport and Storage................................................................................................................................ 97
Appendix..................................................................................................................................................... 98
Specifications.......................................................................................................................................... 98
Connection of a PT-1000 thermistor to the potentiometer-input............................................................. 99
Trouble shooting ................................................................................................................................... 102
System messages................................................................................................................................. 103

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 9
Product Description
The data logger is designed to retrieve, and store data from various sensors. This data is logged onto the
embedded / removable SD-card. Also the stored data can be send from the data logger to any remote
computer you like. To use this feature, you need a valid SIM-card. Contact your local telecommunications
provider for more information on the SIM card you will need. The unit accepts various power sources,
selectable by the different version types. The user should connect his sensor(s) of preference to the
connector board of the device. Captured data can be stored, send, visualized and manipulated in many
ways.
The data logger is equipped with a built-in 2G/3G cellular-modem, an internal temperature sensor, 2 or 4
GB micro SD-card and a SIM card slot. The logger can be powered by an internal 3.6 Volt Lithium battery
that will last for years when the logger is configured in a low-power mode.
Depending on model and edition, the data loggers can acquire physical signals by current loop inputs,
voltage inputs, resistance inputs and digital inputs. They can also be provided with an RS232/RS485/SDI-
12 port to capture serial data (ASCII, MODBUS/RTU, NMEA-0183, SDI-12) or to connect an accessory
(Camera, Display, GPS, Satellite modem).
External sensors can be powered by the data logger itself, to prevent them to consume power while the
data logger is asleep. The excitation voltage is switched off during sleep as well.
Key features:
- A maximum sample rate of 4 Hz,
- Recording buffer up to 4 GB,
- Analog inputs (Except DS editions),
- Serial port(s) (Except AD editions),
- Digital input(s)
- Digital output
- Internal micro SD-card with standard FAT-32 File system for easy use with a PC,
- Easy configuration by menu items of embedded terminal application,
- Can be used with Windows XP, W7, W8 and W10
- Low power / long Battery life (see specification sheet),
- Embedded 2G/3G modem for remote operation,
- Alarming by SMS and data delivery by HTTP, e-Mail, FTP or TCP
- Internal voltage convertor for supplying 12 VDC power to the connected sensor(s),
- Stable excitation voltage to power Wheatstone bridged sensors (OMC-042 only),
- Firmware upgrade over the air for adding new features to your device.
- Remote configuration over the air, for adjusting your configuration from remote.

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 10
Models and Editions
OMC-042
The OMC-042 data logger is equipped with a built-in QUAD-band GPRS-modem, an internal temperature
sensor, 4GB micro SD card and a 2FF SIM card slot. The logger can be powered by an internal 3.6 Volt
Lithium battery that will last for years when the logger is configured in a low-power mode. It is also possible
to power the data logger using an optional integrated solar panel with 3xAA rechargeable NiMH batteries.
The data logger can acquire physical signals by 4 current loop inputs, 4 digital inputs and 2 hi-res amplified
differential voltage inputs, which can be used to connect pyranometers or in combination with a stable
excitation voltage to connect “Wheatstone resistive bridge sensors” like load cells. The data logger is
provided with generic serial port drivers to capture measurements from ASCII, MODBUS/RTU, NMEA or
SDI-12 transponders. Custom drivers can be developed on request. External sensors/transponders can be
powered by the data logger itself, to prevent them to consume power while the data logger is asleep. The
excitation voltage is switched off during sleep as well.
OMC-042
OMC-042
Powered from a 3.6V DC SAFT LSH20 or equivalent D-size lithium battery.
OMC-042-01
With integrated 3 x AA NiMH charger powered from 1Wp integrated solar panel.
OMC-042-02
Like OMC-042 but with TFT display integrated in cover.
The data logger will be supplied without pre-mounted cable glands, giving the user the freedom to choose
the number and size of the glands them self to avoid unnecessary points of risk for moisture penetration.
We recommend removing the PCB before drilling.
1) Analog inputs
2) RS232 connector
3) Excitation DC/DC convertor
4) Digital inputs
5) SDI-12, power switch and
Excitation connector
6) RS485 connector
7) Power switch DC/DC convertor
8) RTC clock battery
9) Power supply connector (to cover)
10) Fuse
11) Processor
12) Antenna Connector
13) Quad Band Modem
14) USB Connector
15) SIM (2FF) & SD-card Holder.

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 11
OMC-043
The OMC-043 data logger is equipped with a built-in cellular modem available for the EMEA regions. It is
further provided with an internal temperature sensor, a 4GB micro SD card and a 2FF SIM card slot. The
logger can be powered by an internal 3.6 Volt Lithium battery that will last for years when the logger is
configured in a low-power mode. It is also possible to power the data logger using an optional integrated
PV-panel with 3xAA rechargeable NiMH batteries or 8..30V external DC source.
The data logger can acquire physical signals by 2 current loop inputs, 2 voltage inputs, 1 potentiometer
input and 3 digital inputs. The data logger is provided with one serial port to capture measurements from
ASCII, MODBUS/RTU, NMEA or SDI-12 compatible sensors. External sensors can be powered by the
data logger itself, to prevent them to consume power while the data logger is asleep. Up to 8
mathematical channels are available to calculate meaningful engineering values derived from sensor
input values (e.g. a polynomial to calculate a flow from a stream level).
OMC-043
OMC-043
With built in 3G cellular modem (900/2100MHz UMTS/HSPA, EMEA/APAC)
OMC-043-01
With integrated 3 x AA NiMH charger powered from 1Wp integrated solar panel.
OMC-043-02
With 4 analog & 3 digital inputs, serial port & TFT-display cover on accessory port.
The data logger will be supplied without pre-mounted cable glands, giving the user the freedom to choose
the number and size of the glands himself, to avoid unnecessary points of risk for moisture penetration.
We recommend removing the PCB before drilling.

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 12
1) Analog inputs
2) RS232/RS-485/SDI-12 connector
3) Digital inputs
4) 12V Power switch and alarm output
5) Accessory port (TFT, CAM, BT4.0, etc.)
6) Cellular MODEM
7) Internal/External antenna selection jumper
8) U.FL connector for external antenna
9) Internal antenna
10) Connector for optional external waterproof USB connector
11) Internal USB connector
12) Processor
13) SIM (2FF) & SD-card Holder
14) Fuse
15) 3V6 power supply connector (to PV or DC cover)
17) RTC clock battery.
OMC-044
The OMC-044 is similar to the OMC-043, but with the additional feature of supporting 4G.

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 13
Getting started
Vibration
At all times the data logger must be protected against vibrations. These vibrations can harm the
performance of the data logger. Especially the real time clock can be harmed by long-lasting vibrations.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
- Always provide a dry and clean environment when you open the case of a data logger.
- When you open the case, use a Philips screwdriver of 2mm for loosening the screws.
- Protect the data logger against mechanical stress and vibrations.
Don’ts
- Don’t try to use a plain screwdriver for loosening the screws, you will damage the screws.
- Avoid touching the PCB directly.
Inserting the SIM-card
The wireless data functions will only work when an activated SIM with a valid subscription is placed in the
data logger. In the menu the configuration and network settings must also match to those supplied by the
SIM card provider. The pin code of the SIM card must be removed prior to insertion in the data logger. To
prevent problems with the SIM card it can be inserted in a mobile phone or 2G/3G data modem. In a Mobile
phone or 2G/3G modem the 2G/3G, SMS and GSM data functionality can be tested.
When you have obtained a 2FF SIM-card, you can insert it into the SIM-card-holder.
Beware:
•Remove the PIN code (this can be done with the use of a mobile phone).
•Check the settings of your mobile provider.
•Check the settings for communicating via HTTP, FTP, E-mail or TCP.
•Check the capability of data communication for your service-provider.
•Make sure the SIM-card is installed correctly, and not upside down.
The Oblique side of the card should be visible. (See picture).
•Installation of the SIM card needs to be done in a clean and dry
environment.
•Avoid contact with the electronic parts around the SIM card.
•Remove power before changing or inserting a SIM card.
•The same applies to the SD-card.

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 14
ESD Attention: Although the data logger is designed to withstand certain amounts of electrostatic
discharge, it is advised to avoid discharged risks. Especially when the housing is open and the electronic
parts are exposed. Please do not touch the PCB if you don’t have to. It is strongly recommended to use an
earthed wrist-band when touching the PCB.
The data logger must be handled with care and never exposed to ESD discharges. When installing a sensor
or other wiring, make sure there is no power on both devices. ESD discharges could cause invisible
damage. This endangers long term stability and proper operation.
Power on for the First time
In the factory the data logger is programmed with the necessary system information. This information is
viewable in the menu. The data logger is ready to use out of the box if the preparations are checked.
•SIM card is inserted.
•SD-card is inserted.
•Internal battery, or mains power is connected.
•Antenna is connected.
Next, connect your sensors. Please consult your sensor’s manual for wiring.
Connect to a PC
OS compatibility: The data logger can be connected to any PC with USB 2.0 running on Microsoft
Windows XP, W7, W8 or W10. The USB virtual COM-port driver is installed when installing ‘OMC-
Terminal’. ‘OMC-Terminal’ can be downloaded from www.observator.com
The OMC-042 can also be programmed using OMC-programmer.
OMC-programmer can be downloaded from www.observator.com.

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 15
Operating Basics
Configuration menu
The data logger can be configured by means of terminal emulation software like ‘hyper terminal’. Our own
terminal emulation software ‘OMC-Terminal’ can be downloaded from www.observator.com
The menu is comprehensive and easy to use. For each different sensor the same approach is used. Below,
one example is given to fully understand the operation of the menu. The example takes you through a
configuration from start to final stage. Only a few menu-items are used in this example. For a complete
overview of all menu-items, see chapter Reference. All menu items use the same approach which is
explained in this example. This example explains only the configuration of the firmware, NOT the wiring.
For wiring information see the reference.
Example:
Let’s Configure an OMC-043 for operation with the following:
- Analog pressure transmitter 4 .. 20mA
- CT2X conductivity / temperature sensor (INW)
- FTP data output
- EMAIL data output
Connect the logger to a free USB port on your computer and open with a terminal emulator the virtual
COM-port (e.g. COM7) as assigned by Windows to the logger. The first time Windows will ask (if not
already installed) for an USB-driver, which can be installed by installing ‘OMC-Terminal’.
When the terminal emulator has opened the COM-port, press:
<Ctrl>A<Shift>M<Ctrl>D to enter the configuration menu.
You’ll see a screen similar to this:
Running
Configuration Menu OMC-043-ADS Logger Version 2.1 Build 4
First we like to give this data
logger appropriate
identification codes.
So, press 3 <Configuration
Setup>
Configuration Menu OMC-043 Logger Version 2.1 Build
4
[0] Run
[1] Date & time >> 2015/11/26 09:11:28
[2] System information >> 5159422
[3] Configuration setup >>
[4] Configuration review
[5] Maintenance
>

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 16
You’ll see this screen:
First Rename your Device by
Selecting option 1
(General Settings)
After selecting “General
Settings” the screen will look like this:
< General settings>
1. Press 1 and enter the name of your preference
2. Choose your data logging interval. We used 10 minutes, and NO Alarming.
3. Enter the deployment date & time. This can be a time in the future when the logger should start
working. We will use the actual date & time to start right away.
4. Exit and save changes.
5. Now, the overall configuration is setup and we proceed with the configuration of the sensors and data
output.
General settings
[0] Exit
[1] System name >> Observator
[2] Data log interval >> 00:10:00
[3] Continuous alarm sampling >> Off
[4] Direct data output on data alarm >> Off
[-] Digital alarm output port >> Enabled
[6] Deployment date and time >> 2015/08/31 06:55:23
[7] Daily operating time slot >> 24 hour
[8] Time zone >> 0
[9] Summer time (daylight saving) >> Not used
>
Configuration setup
[0] Exit
[1] General settings >> Observator
[2] Modem settings
[3] NTP time update >> Not used
[4] Alarm SMS >> Not used
[5] SMS commands >> Not used
[6] Internal sensors >> Internal
[7] Analog sensors >> Not used
[8] Digital sensors >> Not used
[9] Network signal sensor >> Not used
[A] Serial port >> Not used
[B] Accessory port >> Not used
[C] Calculated channels >> Used
[D] DTU connection >> Not used
[E] Email output >> Not used
[F] FTP output >> Not used
[G] TCP output >> Not used
[H] HTTP output >> Not used
>

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 17
Next type 7 for Analog sensors
Choose 1 for Port 1 (mA) and the next screen will appear:
Assign a name to the sensor (option 1: Name)
1. Set the power switch to enabled and enter the warm-up time. (the power switch will supply the sensor
with 12 Volts, and will be activated the time you specify, before a measurement is taken)
2. At default Set the sample interval to the ‘Data log interval’ so only one sample per data log interval
will be taken. You can set the sample interval to a specific value in case you want to record periodic
averages (e.g. a 10 minute wind direction, see chapter: Aggregation channels) or continues alarm
sampling.
3. Set the parameter name.
4. Set both minimum (option 6) and maximum (option 7) values of your sensor at 4mA and at 20mA. If
you don’t know those values you could determine the scaling by measuring two calibration points
(option 8). Those calibration points don’t have to be at the sensors absolute minimum and maximum,
but just two different points within the range of the sensor. (e.g. a measurement at 1m water level and
a measurement at 2m water level, while the sensors range is 0..10m)
5. If necessary option 9 can be used to perform an offset correction by measuring a single calibration
point.
6. Save and Exit
Analog sensors
[0] Exit
[1] Port 1 (mA) >> Analog1
[2] Port 2 (mA) >> Not used
[3] Port 3 (V) >> Not used
[4] Port 4 (V) >> Not used
[5] Potmeter >> Potmeter
[T] Analog input test >> Not done
>
Analog sensor
[0] Exit
[1] Name >> Analog1
[2] Sensor power switch >> Disabled
[3] Sample interval >> Data log interval
[4] Port mode >> Port 1; 4-20 mA
[5] Parameter settings >> Analog
[6] Parameter value at 4 mA >> 0 units
[7] Parameter value at 20 mA >> 100 units
[8] Determine linear conversion function (2 calibration points)
[9] Determine linear offset only (1 calibration point)
[R] Remove
>

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 18
Your screen will look similar to the one underneath:
Analog sensor
[0] Exit
[1] Name >> Water height
[2] Sensor power switch >> Enabled; Warm up 00:00:02
[3] Sample interval >> Data log interval
[4] Port mode >> Port 1; 4-20 mA
[5] Parameter settings >> Analog
[6] Parameter value at 4 mA >> 0 meter
[7] Parameter value at 20 mA >> 10 meter
[8] Determine linear conversion function (2 calibration points)
[9] Determine linear offset only (1 calibration point)
[R] Remove
>

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 19
Now we add the CT2X to the system:
Before we can do this, we need to know the MODBUS address and register address of this sensor,
always consult the manual of your sensor first. In this case the address of the sensor is #1. This sensor
measures two parameters: Temperature and conductivity. So, we need to look up two register addresses.
(Temperature: 62592 and Conductivity 62594, baud rate 38400)
Go to menu-option A <serial port 1> => RS 485 sensors.
After configuring your screen should look like this:
The parameters are always read from Register start address onwards, so the specific address (62594) of
the conductivity-measurement is not used in the configuration. It automatically increases the register-
address in order to read it. All you have to do is select how many parameters are used, and the data type.
More on this topic is included in the reference chapter of this manual.
Multiple CT2X sensors can be connected to an RS485 bus so you need to specify its address (assuming
1 in this example). This sensor is a multiple parameter sensor, so please specify which you want to log.
Attention:
Because this is a digital sensor, it takes a little bit more time to measure than an analog sensor. So don’t
set the sample interval of digital sensors too short. 1 second is possible, but probably not ¼ sec. Just to
be sure we choose to sample at the data log interval. Consult the manual of your digital sensor and check
the response time. The sample-interval must be larger than the response time of the sensor.
MODBUS/RTU sensor
[0] Exit
[1] Name >> MODBUS/RTU INW CT2X
[2] Port settings >> RS485 8N1; 38400 Baud; Address 1
[3] Sensor power switch >> Enabled; Warm up 00:00:01
[4] Sample interval >> Data log interval
[5] Register type >> Holding
[6] Register start address >> 62592
[7] Data type >> WORD (unsigned 2 bytes)
[8] Parameter 1 >> Water temperature
[9] Parameter 2 >> Conductivity
[A] Parameter 3 >> Not used
[B] Parameter 4 >> Not used
[C] Parameter 5 >> Not used
[D] Parameter 6 >> Not used
[E] Parameter 7 >> Not used
[F] Parameter 8 >> Not used
[G] Parameter 9 >> Not used
[M] More parameters >> Not used
[R] Remove
>

OMC-042 / 043 / 044 Data loggers Users’manual page 20
Next thing is the setup of the data outputs.
Before that, we have to configure the general modem settings for GPRS operation. Consult your GPRS-
provider for the correct local settings. In the reference, a table is included with some international GPRS-
providers and their settings. These settings might have been changed.
Go to Menu-option 2 <Modem settings>
The meaning of this menu-option is to configure the settings of your provider. For the right settings,
please consult your local provider. After this configuration it is advised to check the connectivity of your
device, by using the APN login test. After correct configuring it should look like this:
Now we can setup the FTP, TCP and Email output
Therefore go to menu-option:
-E Email output
-F FTP output.
-G TCP output
- H HTTP output
Enter your server-settings.
Modem settings
[0] Exit
[1] Provider selection
[2] Network >> 3G+2G fallback
[3] APN access point >>
[4] APN username >>
[5] APN password >>
[6] APN authentication >> PAP (plain)
[S] Network signal test >> Not done
[T] APN login test >> Not done
>
APN test
Modem full power
Please wait...
ATE0;+CMEE=2;+CCLK="15/11/26,14:26:21+00";+CFUN=5;+CPIN?
+CPIN: READY
OK
AT+CREG=2;+CREG?
+CREG: 2,1,"17F2","0A5C825",2
OK
Registered on 3G network
ATS12=20;#DSTO=1;+CGDCONT=1,"IP","internet";#SGACTCFG=1,5,180,1
OK
AT#SGACT?
#SGACT: 1,0
OK
AT#SGACT=1,1,”xs4all”,”****”
OK
#SGACT: 10.137.12.103
Modem idle
APN test OK
Press any key! >