Observator Instruments NEP-9500 Series User manual

Observator Instruments V1.01 Copyright 2017 ©
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NEP-9500 SERIES
TURBIDITY PROBE
User Manual
Version 1.01 – Oct 2017
Author: Observator Instruments
NEP-9500 SERIES
TURBIDITY PROBE
ABN 56 007 283 963
8-10 Keith Campbell Court, PO Box 9039
Scoresby, VIC 3179 AUSTRALIA
Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web: www.observator.com
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Document History
Paper copies are valid only on the day they are printed. Contact Observator Instruments if any
doubt about the accuracy of this document.
Revision History
This document has been revised by:
Revision Number
Revision Date
Summary of Changes
Author
V1.01
24-10-17
Updated general content
Ludovic Grosjean
Reference Documents
Please see the following documents for more information:
Document
Name
Download from
Author
Online
Training
documents
http://download.observator.com/files/?dir=User
manuals/NEP-9500
Ludovic
Grosjean
Latest
NEP5000
Manual
http://download.observator.com/files/?dir=Software/NEP50xx
Provides an in-depth information of the configuration and
calibration.
Niran
Pelpola
Distribution list
This document has been distributed to:
Name
Company, Position
Action
Dana Galbraith
Director at Observator
Instruments
Review
ABN 56 007 283 963
8-10 Keith Campbell Court, PO Box 9039
Scoresby, VIC 3179 AUSTRALIA
Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web: www.observator.com
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INDEX
INDEX...................................................................................................................................... 3
1. NEP-9500 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................... 5
2. APPLICATIONS .............................................................................................................. 6
3. SAFETY .......................................................................................................................... 7
4. SPECIFICATION ............................................................................................................. 8
5. PINOUT & WIRING DIAGRAM ..................................................................................... 10
Voltage Output version ....................................................................................................... 10
4-20mA Current Output version ......................................................................................... 11
Subconn connection ........................................................................................................... 12
Surge and Lightning considerations ................................................................................. 12
6. DESCRIPTION .............................................................................................................. 13
7. ACCESSORIES ............................................................................................................ 14
8. INSTALLATION ............................................................................................................ 15
Install the probe for the first time ...................................................................................... 15
Physical cabling considerations ........................................................................................ 16
Miscellaneous ...................................................................................................................... 16
9. DEPLOYMENT .............................................................................................................. 17
Installation ............................................................................................................................ 17
Deploy the probe ................................................................................................................. 18
Retrieve the probe ............................................................................................................... 19
10. MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................ 20
Wiper replacement .............................................................................................................. 20
Cleaning the sensor ............................................................................................................ 22
11. ELECTRICAL CONFORMITY ......................................................................................... 23
EC Declaration of Conformity according to Council Directive 89/336/EEC ................... 23
12. SERVICE & SUPPORT COVERAGE ............................................................................. 24
Warranty conditions ............................................................................................................ 25
Contact & more information ............................................................................................... 25

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1. NEP-9500 INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing an ANALITE NEP-9500 series turbidity probe. It will give you
years of service if you install and maintain it according to guidelines set out in this
Manual.
The ANALITE NEP-9500 series of turbidity probes are an enhanced version of our
successful ANALITE 90 and 95 series probes. They offer better performance, more
output options and greater ease of deployment yet are available in the same
mechanical package (Glanded version).
The ANALITE NEP-9500 series turbidity probes are designed for monitoring and
process applications where turbidity levels of up to 1,000NTU may be encountered.
Standard ranges are 0NTU, 10NTU, 400NTU, 1,000NTU, 3,000NTU and 5,000NTU.
Specifically, the ANALITE NEP-9500 probes are designed for applications that will not
allow bio-fouling to build up such as short monitoring deployment or placement in fast
and cold running water. The ANALITE NEP-9500 probes however, with their integral
wiper assembly, are designed where bio-fouling or sedimentation buildup is likely. The
ANALITE NEP-9500 series of probe with a stainless steel case may be submerged to
a depth of 50 meters. The composite case version is rated to 200 meters.
The ANALITE NEP-9500 probes use 90° optics and employ infrared light in accordance
with ISO7027. All probes use a unique modulation technique that ensures almost total
rejection of ambient light conditions as well as a unique microprocessor controlled
differential sample and hold circuit for enhanced performance particularly at low
turbidity levels. 180 degrees is also available which measures up to 30,000NTU.

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2. APPLICATIONS
ANALITE NEP-9500 probes typical use include applications such as:
1. Monitoring of streams and rivers.
2. Monitoring of water storage bodies including stratification studies.
3. Intermediate and final effluent treatment monitoring.
4. Hydrological run off studies.
5. Ground and bore water analysis.
6. Drinking water filtration efficiency.
7. Industrial process monitoring.
8. Sludge and dredge monitoring.
9. Sediment load monitoring.
Which model is best used is dependent on the application, the measuring environment, the logging
equipment and the monitoring period (deployment times) required.
The ANALITE turbidity probes are not suitable in situations where they may be abraded by large
particles such as sand and under these circumstances the reading may become erratic due to the
large particles passing the optic sensor. Measuring turbidity under these circumstance will require
a stilling well to allow the sand particles to settle away from the optic sensor in the probe tip.

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3. SAFETY
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For correct functioning of Observator NEP-9500, the
sensors must be installed according installation
instructions.
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Never obstruct the wiper or prevent the wiper from
wiping.
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Always clean and dry the sensor after use.
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After end of life dispose this product according local
regulations or return to manufacturer.
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4. SPECIFICATION
Glanded cable option (default)
Turbidity sensor Dimensions
Length
320.4mm
Diameter
31.70mm
Subconn option
Turbidity sensor Dimensions
Length
297mm
Diameter
31.7mm

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Measurement
NEP-9500-PLUS
Technique
ISO7027-90°
Range
To customer requireme n ts
Output Span
±2.5Volts or 4 – 20mA, where -2.5V or 4mA = 0NTU
0 to + V and 0 to +2.5V outputs are also available.
Specify output at time of order.
Response Time
Approx 1 second.
Linearity
1%
0 to 10NTU
1%
0 to 400NTU
2%
0 to 1,000NTU
5%
0 to 3,000NTU
Repeatability @
25°C
± 2% across the board
Temp e r a tu re
Coefficient (0 to
40°C)
< ±0.05%/°C
Calibration
compliance using
APS AEPA
polymer solutions
3 points calibration to range
2 points calibration to output span
Environmental
Static Depth Rating
200m (stainless steel casing), 50m (composite casing)
Operating Temp.
-5°C to +40°C
Storage Temp.
-20°C to +50°C
Wiper
Wiper Arrangement
(NEP-9500 SERIES only)
Disposable and consumable – Foam Pad on PVC or Acetal arm. Field
replaceable. Mounted on central shaft, fixed by hex set screw onto flat of
wiper shaft.
Actuation
(NEP-9500 SERIES only)
1. By external TTL/CMOS active low pulse or momentarily
contacting the wiper actuation conductor (pin 5) to 0V (pin 3).
2. Automatic wipe (periodic and power on). Please specify during
the order.
Actuation Pulse Duration
On NEP-9500 series only.
>50mSec, <500mSec
Actuation Pulse Current Sink
On NEP-9500 series only.
1mA max.
Wiping Time
On NEP-9500 series only 8 second nominal.
During the wipe the output is held to the output value just prior to the
wipe.
Power
Operating Voltage
8-30V DC
Current Consumption
25mA maximum when not wiping plus up to 60mA if current output fitted.
Power Settling Time
2 Sec
Wiping Current
NEP-9500 series only. Additional 25mA approx. at less than 10m
submersion.

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5. PINOUT & WIRING DIAGRAM
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Because long cable lengths are common some electrical factors should be taken into account and
these are discussed below.
There are two wiping protocols available on the NEP-9500 probes:
1. A single wipe externally initiated by momentarily reseting the probe (specify
during the ordering).
2. A periodic automatic wipe (specify during the ordering).
Voltage Output version
ANALITE NEP-9500 probes may have an analogue voltage output with a nominal
output impedance of 500 ohms. For particularly long cable runs, the 4-20mA current
output version is recommended.
Wire color
Voltage option
Green
Ground (0V Common)
Shield
Shield (No connection within probe)
Brown
8 to 30V DC power supply (+Ve)
Grey
Wiper (Probe sleep/Wipe)
Yellow
NTU Voltage Common
White
NTU Voltage Output

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4-20mA Current Output version
ANALITE NEP-9500 probes may have an analogue 4-20 current output with a
maximum load rating of 50 ohms, consequently cable loop resistance should be taken
into account. The PUR cable normally supplied with the probes has a nominal loop
resistance of 4.6 ohms per 100m. A schematic of the probe and its load is shown
below.
For very long cable runs (>200m), it may be advisable to connect the NTU Return conductor to the
Supply Common conductor at the end of the cable to reduce the voltage drop along the run.
When a NEP-9500 series probe is ordered with the 4-20mA current output, the probe is configured
as a (high) current source. The load must be less than 270 ohms to ensure proper operation over
the probe’s specified power supply range.
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Wire color
Current option
Green
Ground (0V Common)
Shield
Shield (No connection within probe)
Brown
8 to 30V DC power supply (+ve)
Grey
Wiper (Probe sleep/Wipe)
Yellow
NTU Current Common
White
NTU Current Output

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Subconn connection
The standard version of the NEP-9500 probes are Glanded cable connectors.
Optional Subconn 6-pin marine connector are also available.
The Pinout configuration of the NEP-9500 is the following:
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Surge and Lightning considerations
Surge and lightning protection may also have to be considered given that many installations are “in
the wild”. It is important to note that the NEP-9500 series probes have the stainless steel casing
terminated only to the cable shield. There is no electrical contact between the casing terminated
only to the cable shield. There is no electrical contact between the casing and the probe electronics.
The signal ground (4) and power ground (3) are electrically bound together within the probe.
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Subconn Pin
Number
Meaning
Color
#1
Ground
Black
#2
Signal Output
White
#3
Power
Red
#4
Shield
Shield
#5
Signal Output
Orange
#6
Wiper
Blue

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6. DESCRIPTION
When the product is delivered, this is what you will find in the box:
Product identification
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Each product code can be used to identify each product specification and determine which wiring
must be used for the configuration as detailed in the examples below:
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Items found in the box
Figure 1.1.
NEP-9500 Probe
NEP-CBL-XX - Cable Length (XX) in
meters to be specified at time of order

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7. ACCESSORIES
Observator Instruments offers a wide range of accessories for NEP-9500 range of product
directly available from the website:
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Accessories
Figure 2.1.
Case
Figure 2.2.
Wiper replacement kit
Figure 2.3.
Shroud
NEP-9SHRD - Stainless
protective shroud

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8. INSTALLATION
They are aspects to consider when preparing to install the ANALITE NEP-9500 series probes on the
field:
1. Installation of the probe proper into the environment where measurements are to take place.
2. Physical cabling considerations.
3. Electrical cabling considerations.
Install the probe for the first time
The probe is normally installed with the optics pointing downwards (but not vertical) or in a horizontal
alignment. In a simple application the probe is simply immersed into the water to the desired depth,
but within the depth rating of the probe. Please note the depth rating is based on static water.
Allowances must be made for the effect of flowing water to ensure the static depth rating is not
exceeded. If the probe is to be installed downwards then it is recommended to install it a few degrees
away from the vertical to allow bubbles to escape away from the optic face.
Probes with integrated wiping should be installed such that they can be easily retrieved from time to
time to replace the wiper arm assembly. It is important that the optic end of the probe is kept clear of
obstruction such as the river bed. The minimum distance between the optic head and any object
should be 50mm (2”).
The standard casing of the ANALITE NEP-9500 series probes are made of 6 stainless steel but the
optic face is made of plastic materials and so should be protected from accidental scratching or
abrasion. The wiper arm assembly should be replaced periodically to avoid abrasive material build-
up in the pad that may eventually abrade the optic face. The optic face is partially protected from
damage by the protruding castellation in the probe casing.
To a voi d cre vic e co r ros i on o n t h e 6 s tai n les s st e el c asi n g i n sa l t an d ac idic wa t er d e pl o ym e nts it is
strongly recommended that the probe be thoroughly washed in clean water after deployment and
prior to storage. Failure due to crevice corrosion is not covered under warranty. A composite cased
version is available for corrosive and sea water environments but its pressure rating is limited to
30m.
If the probe is to be installed in a glanded fitting (for insertion into a pipe etc.) then care must be
taken to ensure the sealing surface pressures offered by the gland fitting are not excessive so as to
not cause distortion of the probe casing and force leakage. The ANALITE NEP-9500 series probes
are thin wall instrument and so glanding pressure must be minimal and spread over the largest
possible area. Do not cut or damage the outer sheath of the cable. Water may enter the probe through
holes or cuts in the cable sheath. Where damage may occur due to river rocks striking or rolling over
the probe body, a protective shroud should be used which can be made of simple PVC piping or
stainless steel whichever the situation warrants. A shroud is available for the NEP-9500 as an
accessory under the part number NEP-9SHRD. Such a shroud not only protects the probe but also
assist in maintaining a minimum distance between probe optics and any local obstructions.

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Physical cabling considerations
Cable normally supplied with the ANALITE NEP-9500 series probes is a specially selected PUR
sheathed and screened cable selected for strength, chemical resilience and exceptional resistance
to cuts, nicks and abrasion. The cable part number is NEP-CBL.
Nevertheless, care should be taken during the installation process of the probe and its cabling
ensure that the cable is not subjected to persistent pulling, snagging abrasion or severe
compression.
This is particularly important for the probes with fixed and glanded cable as any water penetration
through the cable sheath may find its way into the probe proper affecting the accuracy of the
readings and possibly causing irreparable damage.
For probes fitted with connectors, care must be taken to ensure the connectors are properly mated
to ensure a seal yet not screwed together too tightly so as to make their disconnection difficult after
a long deployment.
Prior to mating make sure both the probe and cable connectors are dry in the termination area
otherwise erratic operation may occur due to moisture.
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Miscellaneous
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The wiper on the NEP-9500 probes can be actuated by momentarily connecting the Wipe conductor
(5) to the Power Common conductor (0) for longer than 50msec.
This protocol can be implemented using a mechanical switch arrangement or open collector (drain)
output available on most loggers. For multiple wipes each consecutive wipe must be actuated after
the wiper has parked in its rest position (approx.. 8 seconds after a wipe actuation). Wipe pulses
applied during a wipe action will be ignored.
Note: During the wipe period the NTU output will be held at the value measured just prior to the wipe
(within 2%).
The recommended external wiper activation interface arrangements are shown schematically below:
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+3.6V!

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9. DEPLOYMENT
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Installation
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Installation instructions will vary depending on your project requirements. Typical example involves
the use of an extension cable for Subconn connector Option which can be purchased separately. ,
Connect the Subconn Female extension cable to the probe according to the matching pin
configuration as shown below:
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Make sure the connector is sealed by screwing tight the connector.
Install the probe to the mounting location ready for deployment.
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Deploy the probe
1. Start by considering the environment of operation: always operate wearing appropriate
safety equipment in safe operation conditions.
2. The probe is normally installed with the optics pointing downwards (but not
vertical) or in a horizontal alignment
3. In a simple application the probe is simply immersed into the water to the
desired depth, but within the depth rating of the probe. Please note the depth rating is based
on static water.

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4. Allowances must be made for the effect of flowing water to ensure the static depth rating
is not exceeded. If the probe is to be installed downwards then it is recommended to install
it a few degrees away from the vertical to allow bubbles to escape away from the optic
face.
5. Probes with integrated wiping should be installed such that they can be easily
retrieved from time to time to replace the wiper arm assembly.
6. It is important that the optic end of the probe is kept clear of obstruction such
as the river/sea bed. The minimum distance between the optic head and any object should
be 50mm (2”).
Be Careful: The standard casing of the NEP-9500 as well as the optic face is made of plastic
materials and should be protected from accidental scratching or abrasion. The wiper arm assembly
should be replaced periodically to avoid abrasive material build-up in the pad that may eventually
abrade the optic face. The optic face is partially protected from damage by the protruding castellation
in the probe casing.
If the probe body is to be installed in a glanded fitting (for insertion into a pipe, etc. ) the care must
be taken to ensure the sealing surface pressures offered by the gland fitting are not excessive so
as to not cause distortion of the probe casing and force leakage. The NEP-9500 probes are thin wall
instruments and so glanding pressure must be minimal and spread over the largest possible area.
Do not cut or damage the outer sheath of the cable. Water may enter the probe through holes or
cuts in the cable sheath. Where damage may occur due to river rocks striking or rolling over the
probe body, a protective shroud should be used which can be made of simple PVC piping or
stainless steel whichever the situation warrants. Such a shroud not only protect the probe but also
assist in maintaining a minimum distance between probe optics and any local obstructions.
Retrieve the probe
Carefully pull the sensor out of water. Clean the sensor with fresh water and carefully dry the
connector (blow air if necessary), then disconnect the cable from the connector. Store the probe in
appropriate conditions.
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10. MAINTENANCE
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The new generation family of sensors can be fully configured and calibration using pc calibration
software and calibration communication hardware. For more information, please refer to the
analogue option of the NEP-5000 manual.
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Wiper replacement
Note: This applies to the NEP-9500 versions only.
1. The effectiveness of the wiper in maintaining a clean optical surface will eventually be
compromised, the time being dependent on the water under investigation and the number of
wiping cycles carried out. We recommend periodic inspection of the wiper pad to determine
if the material is deteriorating or is impregnated with material from bio-fouling. Normally the
wiper should be replaced every 4 to 6 weeks of deployment. In addition, as a precaution we
recommend changing the wiper prior each deployment. The wiper is a consumable item and
a spare is provided with each NEP-9500 series probe along with a hex key to loosen and
fasten the wiper set screw. Wiper packs containing four wipers and a hex key are available
(Part Number NEP-9WIPE) as a standard accessory.
2. It is strongly recommended that the wiper be replaced prior to a new deployment. After a
deployment, the wiper pad may dry out and the collected material adheres to the probe face.
Operating the wiper under such conditions could then damage the internal mechanics. Such
damage is not covered under warranty.