Seeed Sensecap User manual

User Manual

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Sensor Hub - 4G Data Logger

User Manual

Version: V3.0

                                                                                                    User Manual 
 © 2008-2021 Seeed Technology Co., Ltd. All rights reserved. solution.seeedstudio.com 
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Table of Contents 
1. Product Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 4
2. Quick Deployment Guide..................................................................................................................................... 6
 Connect Sensor Hub to SenseCAP Cloud Platform .................................................................................. 6
 Connect Sensor Hub to 3rd-party Sensors and Servers........................................................................... 7
3. Assemble the Device............................................................................................................................................ 8
 Device Packing List (Sensor Hub)............................................................................................................. 8
 Device Interface Introduction.................................................................................................................. 9
 Install the SIM card .................................................................................................................................. 9
 Install the Antenna................................................................................................................................. 10 
 Connect the Sensors.............................................................................................................................. 10 
 Configure APN........................................................................................................................................ 11 
 Connect the Power Cord........................................................................................................................ 11 
4. Configure the Device to Connect to SenseCAP Cloud Platform......................................................................... 12 
 Bind the Device...................................................................................................................................... 12 
4.1.1 Create an account...................................................................................................................... 12 
4.1.2 Download the App..................................................................................................................... 12 
Bind Devices and Sensors to your Account................................................................................................ 12 
 Prepare Tool........................................................................................................................................... 13 
4.2.1 Sensor Hub Configuration Tool .................................................................................................. 13 
4.2.2 USB-to-TTL Cable and Driver Installation................................................................................... 14 
 Configuration Tool Introduction............................................................................................................. 15 
 Universal Settings .................................................................................................................................. 16 
4.4.1 Device EUI and Data Upload Interval Modifications.................................................................. 17 
4.4.2 MQTT Server Configuration ....................................................................................................... 18 
4.4.3 GPS configuration ...................................................................................................................... 20 
4.4.4 APN Configuration ..................................................................................................................... 21 
4.4.5 Read and Write button and Clear Data...................................................................................... 21 
 Power on the Device.............................................................................................................................. 21 
 View Data and Device Status on SenseCAP Cloud Platform .................................................................. 22 
 Instructions for SenseCAP Cloud Platform............................................................................................. 22 
 API Instructions...................................................................................................................................... 23 
5. Add a Custom Sensor......................................................................................................................................... 24 
 Sensor Categorization............................................................................................................................ 25 
5.1.1 Custom Sensors.......................................................................................................................... 25 
5.1.2 Built-in-Support Sensors ............................................................................................................ 25 
 Add a Custom Sensor (Example: Soil Temperature & Moisture Sensor)................................................ 26 
5.2.1 Preparation ................................................................................................................................ 26 
5.2.2 Configure Sensors’ Basic Information........................................................................................ 26 
5.2.3 Configure Measurement Value.................................................................................................. 28 
5.2.4 Sensor Test................................................................................................................................. 31 
5.2.5 Check & Confirm Data’s Upload to the Server........................................................................... 31 
 Add Custom Measurement Types and Sensor Type IDs to the SenseCAP Cloud Platform.................... 34 

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5.3.1 Add a Measurement Type.......................................................................................................... 34

5.3.2 Add Sensor Type ........................................................................................................................ 35

6. Troubleshooting and Log Analysis ..................................................................................................................... 37

Common Abnormality Debugging ......................................................................................................... 37

6.1.1 Abnormal Channel Status .......................................................................................................... 37

6.1.2 Error: No sensor found. Is the sensor connected ...................................................................... 37

6.1.3 Error: [ERROR] rs485 err code: XX XX ........................................................................................ 37

Log Analysis............................................................................................................................................ 38

7. Do’s & Don’ts..................................................................................................................................................... 42

Low Temperature Environment Precautions (MUST-READ for Built-in Battery Version)....................... 42

Aviation Connector Port Number (Wire Sequence)............................................................................... 42

Installation Guide – Sensor Hub Data Logger ........................................................................................ 43

Installation Guide - Solar Panels ............................................................................................................ 45

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1. Product Introduction

SenseCAP is an industrial-grade sensing network system that enables low-power environmental data

acquisition. The system consists of reliable and easy-to-use hardware products, software and cloud services.

SenseCAP currently includes a product family of Sensor Hub 4G Data Logger & Sensors; and SenseCAP LoRaWAN

Gateways & Sensors, etc.

The Sensor Hub series consists of Sensor Hub Data Logger and Sensors. The system uses Modbus-RTU RS485

protocol for communication and can be connected directly to the RS485 sensors that Seeed provides. The Sensor

Hub can also be configured to access collect data from third party sensors that use the standard Modbus-RTU RS485

protocol. It has a maximal support for 32 sensors. The device uploads the collected data via 4G/3G/2G to user’s

private MQTT server or to SenseCAP cloud. There are two types of power supply: wall power and solar power. With

a built-in high-capacity rechargeable lithium battery, Sensor Hub can work for up to 2 weeks in rainy days or during

power outage. When communication signals are weak or disconnect, the data can be cached locally, greatly

reducing the risk of data loss. The equipment is waterproof and resistant to UV and rain, anti-aging, and can be

deployed in harsh outdoor environments.

SenseCAP also provides an easy-to-use cloud platform and services. Users can scan QR codes on the devices

with mobile apps, bind devices to corresponding accounts, and manage devices and view data on the web portal

conveniently. The platform also provides API services that allow users to obtain data from cloud platforms and

quickly integrate it for their own applications.

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Key Features:

⚫Support collection of various environmental data simultaneously (up to 32 sensors with four RS485 interfaces

and splitters)

⚫Support using with standard Modbus-RTU RS485 sensors

⚫Strong compatibility, supporting both 5V and 12V to power the sensors

⚫The device supports offline data caching at least 10000 measurements. When the communication signal is poor

or disconnected, the data is cached locally until the communication resumes and then uploads the cached data

to the server

⚫Support GPS function to real-time fixed-point monitoring

⚫Two types of power supply available: DC wall power, solar power

⚫Ultra-low power consumption: with the built-in 6Ah lithium battery, when the solar power is insufficient or

power outage, the equipment can work for more than two weeks (when measuring 7 parameters)

⚫Easy to install and deploy, without requirements of engineering background

⚫Easy to maintain, supporting OTA for remote updates

⚫Industrial-grade Environmental Tolerance: working temperature supporting -20℃ ~ +60℃

⚫IP66 rated, resistant to UV and rain erosion, suitable for outdoor applications

System Architecture:

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2. Quick Deployment Guide

For quick deployment, here we are listing the main steps. Please refer to the following chapters for more details.

Connect Sensor Hub to SenseCAP Cloud Platform

1. Unpack, refer to the packing list and check whether there are missing parts.

2. Bind the device using the SenseCAP APP by scan the QR code on Sensor Hub.

3. Install the SIM card: Use the Allen Hex Key to open the cover of the device and insert the SIM card.

4. Install the antenna.

5. Connect the USB Serial Tool via port B6. Download SenseCAP Sensor Hub Configuration Tool.

6. Set the APN with SenseCAP Sensor Hub Configuration Tool.

7. Install the sensor (channel port 1 to 4).

8. Connect the power supply and plug in to the power port (B6).

9. Turn on the switch(B5): LED on represents normal start. The device initialization takes about 5 minutes.

10. View device status and sensor data on SenseCAP cloud platform.

11. Deploy the device.

1) Check and confirm the location for installing the device.

2) Install poles, brackets, and sensors, etc.

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Connect Sensor Hub to 3rd-party Sensors and Servers

1. Unpack, refer to the packing list and check whether there are missing parts.

2. Install the SIM card: Use the Allen Hex Key to open the cover of the device and insert the SIM card.

3. Install the antenna.

4. Download Sensor Hub Configuration Tool, connect the device (via port B6) to computer with a USB-to-TTL cable.

5. Install the driver, access the above-download tool, and power on the device by pressing the switch (B5). Then

configure the followings in the software:

1) Sensor information.

2) APN information.

6. Turn off the switch (B5) for 10 seconds and start it again.

7. Check the sensor data on the server.

8. Deploy the device.

1) Check and confirm the location for installing the device.

2) Install poles, brackets, and sensors, etc.

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3. Assemble the Device

This chapter mainly describes the basic assembly process. Before installing the device, please check the packing list

and make sure there are no missing parts.

Device Packing List (Sensor Hub).

Number

Parts

Number

1

Sensor Hub

1

2

Antenna

1

3

Power Adapter

1

4

USB Serial Tool

1

5

Allen Hex Key and M5 Self-drilling Screw

1 / 8

6

Mounts

4

7

Ferrules

2

8

Aluminum Mounts

2

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Device Interface Introduction

A4: Antenna connector.

1 to 4: RS-485 channel ports for sensor (Channel Number: 1, 2, 3, 4 from left to right, up to down).

B5: Power switch and status indicator.

B6: two functions in one: (1) power supply port, (2) serial port.

Install the SIM card

⚫Remove the six screws from the top cover with the Allen Hex Key (included in the package) and open the lid.

⚫Swipe downward to open the SIM card socket, insert the Micro SIM card and swipe upward to lock the SIM

card socket. Make sure it is installed correctly and close the lid with the screws.

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Note: When installing the cover screws, be sure to lock the screws tight, or it may affect the water resistance of

the device!

Install the Antenna

Remove the plastic cap from the antenna connector and screw the antenna clockwise.

Note: Do NOT connect the power supply when installing the antenna, as this may cause damage to the antenna

circuit!

Connect the Sensors

Unscrew the protective cover of the connector and plug the sensor into the RS-485 connector.

Note:

1. It is recommended that you connect the sensors before connecting to the power supply. Or it the device

might not recognize the sensors and requires a restart.

2. When using a splitter, each RS-485 interface cannot connect to sensors with the same Modbus address.

3. Each interface must be connected to sensors of the same voltage. For example, you can connect four 5V

sensors to B1 port, while connecting four 12V sensors to B2 port, but do NOT connect both 5V and 12V

sensors to the same port.

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Configure APN

Please refer to section 4.

Connect the Power Cord

Unscrew the protective cover of the power supply connector, plug one end of the power extension cord into the

power connector and tighten it, plug the other end of the power extension cord directly into the power adapter.

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4. Configure the Device to Connect to SenseCAP Cloud

Platform

Before you deploy and install the devices, make sure that your device is working properly and uploading data.

Bind the Device

4.1.1 Create an account

Create your account at https://sensecap.seeed.cc

4.1.2 Download the App

⚫For iPhone users: search for "SenseCAP" at the App Store to download.

⚫Android: download the App at http://sensecap-app-download.seeed.cn

Or simply scan the QR code below to download.

iOS Android

Bind Devices and Sensors to your Account

Sign in to SenseCAP App with your account, select Binding in the upper right corner of the home page, scan the QR

code on the device, and "confirm" the binding.

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Prepare Tool

4.2.1 Sensor Hub Configuration Tool

Download the Sensor Hub Configuration Tool from GitHub:

https://github.com/Seeed-Solution/SenseCAP-Sensor-Hub-Configuration-Tool-NG/releases

For MacOS, please install: SenseCAP-Sensor-Hub-Configuration-Tool-X.X.X dmg

For Windows, please install: SenseCAP-Sensor-Hub-Configuration-Tool-X.X.exe

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Note: The software may be updated, please download the latest version of the software.

4.2.2 USB-to-TTL Cable and Driver Installation

USB-to-TL serial cable:

The aviation connect (blue part) is connected to the power port (B6) of Sensor Hub Data Logger and the USB port

is connected to the computer.

Install the driver:

https://github.com/Jenkinlu001/SenseCAP/tree/master/Drivers

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Configuration Tool Introduction

Access the SenseCAP Sensor Hub Configuration Tool on your computer:

①Select the serial port number.

②The device modes include: (1) Working mode and (2) Configuration Mode:

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Unchecked: Device is in the normal working mode, the device starts normally and collects data, you can

view the device real-time operation log.

Checked: The configuration mode is activated, and various parameters can be configured after the

device is started.

③To connect: after selecting the serial port number and checking the configuration mode, click "Connect".

After connecting, press the power button of the device, the "General Settings" and other functions will

light up, and the device can be configured.

④Universal settings: Parameters such as device EUI (unique number for each device), server address, port,

data acquisition interval, etc. can be configured.

⑤Sensor settings: you can add new sensors that support standard Modbus-RTU protocol.

⑥Update Firmware: Upgrade the device.

Universal Settings

(1) Before the device is turned on, make sure the antenna SIM card are installed. When installing an antenna,

make sure the device is turned off or the antenna circuit may be damaged.

(2) Connect the device to the computer with the USB-to-TTL cable, access the Sensor Hub Configuration Tool,

select the serial port number, check "The device will automatically enter configuration mode after starting"

and click "Connect".

Tip: follow this path on your PC“Manage→Control Panel→Port”, and you can see the port number of the

device you are using.

(3) Press the power switch to turn on the device. After booting, the "General Settings" button will light up, and

the device’s information will be shown on the right side of the interface.

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(4) Click "General Settings" and the configuration interface will pop up.

4.4.1 Device EUI and Data Upload Interval Modifications

①Device EUI: The device's unique number, corresponding to the device label, is 16 bits long.

②Card ICCID: SIM card ICCID (readable only in working mode).

Signal RSSI: Cellular (readable only in working mode).

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Data Interval: The interval between each data upload, with a minimum of 5 minutes. After modification,

you need to click "Write" to take effect.

Battery: The remaining power of the built-in lithium battery.

(Change to upload data every 10 minutes)

4.4.2 MQTT Server Configuration

When you access the General Settings, some commands are shown at the right window of the main interface.

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（1）Select the cloud platform: Click to enter commands directly at the green cursor below the main interface.

Enter the lowercase letter: b

Tip Input: 1 is the SenseCAP cloud platform (default);

2 is the user's third-party MQTT server;

3 is a SenseCAP private deployment;

To configure the user's own server, please enter the command 2 and press Enter.

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As shown in the image, it has switched to the new cloud platform 2.

（2）Type in server address, port number, etc.

③Server Address, Server Port: To upload the Data to the user's own server, the IP/domain name and port

number are configured.

Username / Password: If there is verification code, fill it in.

Note: After completing the parameters, make sure to click "Write".

After configuring the server information, if you want to use the SenseCAP Cloud again, follow the similar

method: In the main interface, type the command line: enter b => enter 1, and select SenseCAP Cloud Platform.

4.4.3 GPS configuration

④Enable GPS: Considering the power consumption, GPS function is turned off in the factory settings. If you

need to use GPS function, turn on the switch and click "Write".

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