Turner DataBank User manual

December 14, 2018
Revision L
Turner Designs
1995 N. 1st Street
San Jose, CA 95112

998-2900 Rev L 2
Table of Contents
1
Introduction
5
1.1
Features
5
2
Button Description and Operation
6
2.1
Power Button
6
2.2
Store Button
6
2.3
Recall Button
6
2.3.1
Recall previous records stored
7
2.3.2
Erase records
7
2.4
Select Button
7
2.5
Button Combinations
8
2.5.1
Reset
8
2.5.2
Display Mode
8
2.5.3
Flash Programming Mode
8
2.5.4
GPS Information & Toggle GPS Mode
8
3
Graphical User Interface
9
3.1
Connection Requirements
9
3.2
Setup Options Tab
10
3.2.1
Date and Time
10
3.2.2
Backlight Operation
11
3.2.3
Backlight Power
11
3.2.4
Display Mode
11
3.2.5
Sensor Warm-up Time
11
3.2.6
Sensor Voltage
11
3.2.7
Logging Interval
11
3.3
Save Settings to a File
11
3.3.1
File Naming
12
3.3.2
If File Exists
12
3.3.3
File Content
12
3.3.4
File Descriptor
13
3.4
Setting DataBank from a File
13
3.5
Updating the DataBank’s Operating System
13
3.6
Save DataBank Records Tab
16
3.6.1
Download DataBank’s Records
16
3.6.2
Delete DataBank’s Records
17
3.7
Calibration and Auto Gain
18
3.7.1
Quick Calibration
18
3.7.2
Advanced Calibration
19
3.7.3
Collect Data and Create New Equation
21
3.7.4
To create a Datapoint
21
3.7.5
View Graph
22
4
Sensors and Cables
24
4.1
Sensors - Link to Quick Start Guide
24
4.2
Cables
24
5
Batteries & Charging
25
5.1
Low Battery
25
5.2
Charging the Battery - Slow and Fast Charge Option
25
5.3
Amp/Hour Gauge
26

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Table of Contents cont.
5.4
Recharging When Not Enough Charge
26
5.5
When to Charge the Battery
26
5.6
When the Battery Does Not Charge Normally
26
5.7
Battery Life Estimate
27
6
Warranty
28
6.1
Terms
28
6.2
Warranty Service
28
6.3
Out of Warranty Service
29
Appendix
A
Specifications
31
B
Setting up Window’s HyperTerminal
32
C
Using HyperTerminal to Download Data Files
33

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WASTE ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT (WEEE) DIRECTIVE
Turner Designs is in the business of designing and selling products that benefit the well-
being of our environment. Accordingly, we are concerned with preserving the
surroundings wherever our instruments are used and happy to work with customers by
complying with the WEEE Directive to reduce the environmental impact resulting from
the use of our products.
WEEE Return Process:
To arrange the return of an end-of-life product, proceed as follows:
If you purchased your instrument through a Turner Designs Distributor please
contact your local representative. They will instruct you where to return the end-of-
life product.
If you purchased your instrument directly from Turner Designs please contact
Turner Designs Customer Service
By Phone: [phone] or Toll Free: [phone]
By Email: Customer Service at [email protected]
Turner Designs will provide a WEEE RMA Number, a Shipping Account Number,
and a Ship to Address. Package and ship the product back to Turner Designs.
The product will be dealt with per Turner Designs’ end-of-life recycling program in an
environmentally friendly way.

998-2900 Rev L 5
1 Introduction
The DataBank is designed for Interpretive Metering and Data Collection from Turner
Designs’ Cyclops Submersible Sensors integrated with GPS location data. Used in
conjunction with a PC, the DataBank software allows for easy setup, calibration and data
retrieval.
Note: All units with serial numbers before S/N 2900545 are not equipped with
internal GPS.
"Interpretive Metering" converts the voltage output from sensors to units of choice.
"Data Collection" allows users to store up to 9,999 records manually or automatically
which can be downloaded using a computer via USB.
The DataBank Handheld Datalogger P/N 2900-199 allows for easy transport during
mobile field studies. DataBanks are sold with cables installed. Cables are available in
lengths of 0.6, 5, 10, 25, and 50 meters.
1.1 Features
Multiple-Gain functions
Auto gain between set gain values
Default gain settings for Cyclops Submersible Sensors
Manually assign gain values
Dual Calibration Modes
Quick calibration: Computer assisted
Advanced calibration: Manual
Up to 16 calibrations stored
Data logging
Automatic shut off between sampling intervals greater than 10 seconds
oMinimum logging interval 1 second
oMaximum logging interval 4 days
Non-volatile data storage
No loss in data or settings
Store up to 9,999 records
Integrated Internal GPS
Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS): GPS and GLONASS
Horizontal Position Accuracy: 2.5m
High power rechargeable battery
Supplies power to DataBank and sensor
Built-in battery charger with “amp/hour” gauge
Flash operating system
Automatic upgrade notice and assistance from Windows software
Upgrade made via USB
Durable housing
Sealed, low force, snap action pushbuttons
Enables easy one-handed operation, even with gloves.

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2 Button Description and Operation
Note: There are two distinct ways to operate each of the four buttons.
1) “Press” which is to press the button and release it within 1 second.
2) “Hold” which is to press the button for a full second before releasing.
2.1 Power Button
The Power button is used to:
Turn the DataBank on and off
oPress the Power button to turn the DataBank on.
oHold the Power button to turn the DataBank off.
Toggle the backlight
oPress the Power button to toggle the LCD’s backlight on and off while the
unit is turned on.
End logging mode
oPress the Power button while the unit is in logging mode to stop logging.
2.2 Store Button
The Store button is used to:
Store data records
oPress the Store button to store the current reading displayed.
Initiate logging mode
oHold the Store button to start the logging mode.
The following will be displayed once logging mode has
begun.
2.3 Recall Button
The Recall button is used to:
Recall stored records
oPress the Recall button to display the last record stored.
Erase stored records
oHold the Recall button to erase the last record stored.

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2.3.1 Recall previous records stored.
Each time the Recall button is pressed the record stored number will
decrement to the very first record stored. Continuous presses, after the first
record stored has been reached, will increment to the last record stored.
2.3.2 Erase records
Hold the Recall button to erase the last record stored and the display will first
show,
Followed by,
Note: You can only erase the last record stored. Trying to erase any
other record will result in the following message.
2.4 Select Button
The Select button is used to:
Select a parameter group
oPress the Select button to increment through the parameter groups (1-16),
stop on the parameter group of choice and if no buttons are pressed after
about a second that parameter group will be automatically selected.
Revert to the first parameter group
oHold the Select button to revert to the first parameter group so you don’t
have to scroll through the remaining parameter groups.
2.5 Button Combinations
2.5.1 Reset
Pressing all 4 buttons simultaneously will result in a hardware reset of the
DataBank. This is used in the event that the computer locks up preventing a
normal power down of the DataBank. This can also be used after updating
the DataBank’s operating system.
2.5.2 Display Mode
Press the Select button and within one second press the Recall button to
toggle between “Title” mode and “Date & Time” mode. The unit will revert
back to the original programmed display mode on the next power up.

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2.5.3 Flash Programming Mode
This mode is used to update the DataBank’s operating system. Updates are
made using the standard USB DataBank cable. An RS232 serial cable
connection is available as an option.
See Section 3.5 “updating the DataBank’s operating system”.
2.5.4 GPS Information & Toggle GPS Mode
Press the Power and Recall button simultaneously to view the GPS
information. The LCD will display a “No Fix” message indicating that the GPS
is unable to establish a signal or a GPS location as shown below.:
After 3 seconds the display will switch to the Toggle GPS Mode where you
can press the Power and Recall button simultaneously again to turn the GPS
on or off.
Note: GPS operation impacts battery life, to estimate battery life refer to Section
5.7.

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3 Graphical User Interface
DataBank GUI software runs in Microsoft Windows and is used for communicating with
and configuring the DataBank.
3.1 Connection Requirements
DataBank must be connected to a computer using the provided interface cable.
DataBank must be turned on.
The computer COM port must be set to any COM port 1-8.
NOTE: The DataBank’s Interface cable should not be connected to an external
power source charging when connecting to the DataBank GUI.
When the above two requirements are fulfilled, begin the software and the GUI will
search for the presence of a DataBank; port settings aren’t required.
If the DataBank is not found, then the following message will appear:
This message
indicates the GUI
is searchingfor a
connected
DataBank
This message
indicates the GUI
is searchingfor a
connected
DataBank
This message
indicates the GUI
is searchingfor a
connected
DataBank

998-2900 Rev L 10
If you click Retry,then the GUI again tries to find the DataBank. If you click Cancel,
then the GUI software will shut down and you must re-start the GUI.
Once communication has been established, the main screen will display the
DataBank’s information in the upper left hand corner and the “Talking with DataBank”
prompt will disappear:
3.2 Setup Options Tab
The Setup Options tab is used for setting the general operation of the DataBank.
Each DataBank will have its own saved settings and this screen will change to reflect
those settings once communication between a PC and a DataBank has been
established. Note: Please wait for the background of each pull-down menu to
turn light blue before attempting any changes.
3.2.1 Date and Time
PC Time –click to choose, then click Send to set the DataBank’s current
date and time to PC date and time.
Upon connection,
the DataBank’sserial
number and version of
the operating system
are displayed
Upon connection,
the DataBank’sserial
number and version of
the operating system
are displayed

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Manual Entry –click to choose, enter in a date and time, then click Send to
set the DataBank’s current date and time to the manually entered date and
time.
3.2.2 Backlight Operation
Manual –the Power button can be pressed to manually turn the backlight
on/off.
Auto Shut-Off –use the pull down menu to set a time interval to automatically
turn off the backlight.
3.2.3 Backlight Power
High –uses 30 mA power consumption
Low –uses 15 mA power consumption
3.2.4 Display Mode
Date & Time –DataBank will display the date & time during normal operation
Example: #01 04/06 10:32.
Title –DataBank will display the title of your current selection.
Example: Amazon River
3.2.5 Sensor Warm-up Time
Set a time from the pull down menu which allows the sensor to stabilize
“warm up” after power has been supplied and before any readings are taken.
Note: Recommended Cyclops warm up time is a minimum of 5
seconds.
3.2.6 Sensor Voltage
Set the voltage that the DataBank should apply to the sensor upon power up.
Setting a value near the minimum voltage required for operation will conserve
the DataBank’s battery power and extend battery life.
Note: Recommended Cyclops voltage input is 12 volts and a minimum
of 5 volts.
3.2.7 Logging Interval
Enter a time interval (HH:MM:SS) that defines when the DataBank should
wake the sensor to make a measurement.
Note: If the logging interval is less than 10 seconds the DataBank
screen will remain on. If the logging interval is greater than 10 seconds
the DataBank screen will shut off and turn on before a reading is taken
as a power saving feature.
3.3 Save Settings to a File
This button will open a new window with commands for specifying to the DataBank
where and what to save to a file.

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3.3.1 File Naming
Either manually enter a file path and filename and press Enter or use the
Browse button to select an already existing filename from a desired location.
Note: It is suggested you use the file extension .txt when manually
entering a filename as the file is comma delimited.
If a file path and filename are not entered or an already existing file is not
selected, the setting file will be saved to the DataBank GUI folder found in the
Programs Files folder within the C drive. From there it can be moved to a
different location as specified by the end user.
Note: If you are unable to find the file where the settings were saved
you may need to use Notepad or similar program and create a .txt file.
Be sure to type at least 1 character in the file before saving it.
3.3.2 If File Exists
Upon saving a settings file, the choices for the If File Exists section of the
screen will either be selectable or unavailable depending on if the file exists
for that file path entered.
Replace –the existing settings file is overwritten using new settings and
calibration data.
Append –new settings and calibration data are appended to the existing file.
3.3.3 File Content
Users can either choose to save all the settings or selected settings.
All Settings –saves all settings and calibration data from all 16 parameter
groups.
Note: This may take several minutes.
Selected settings –allows options to include or exclude settings data and/or
range of groups to save. If this option is chosen, the following screen will
appear:
Range of Groups to Save –set the first group number and last group number
to select the range of parameter groups to save. Calibration data for the
selected range of parameter groups will be saved to file.
Include Setup Options –choose Yes to include or No to exclude the
DataBank’s current settings to be saved along with calibration data for the
range of groups selected.

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Note: If you choose to save only groups 1 and 3, excluding group 2 and
4-16, then choose range of groups as (1,1) and repeat the same steps
for range of groups (3,3) making sure to append group 3 data to group 1
data.
3.3.4 File Descriptor
This is a string of text written to the top of a file to help users better identify
the settings or calibration data saved for that part of the file. A file descriptor
is automatically generated and can be changed manually to any title the user
desires:
3.4 Setting DataBank from a File
The DataBank can be set using a previously saved file which includes settings
and/or calibration data.
1) Use the Browse button to navigate to an already existing file that contains
settings and/or calibration data.
2) Click Open to choose that file.
An error message will appear in an Error Message box if the chosen file is not a valid
file. If the file chosen is a valid settings file, the descriptor set by the user will be
displayed in a File Description box.
3.5 Upgrading the DataBank’s Operating System
Note: Be sure the DataBank's battery is fully charged before proceeding.
New DataBank software releases for Windows will include the latest DataBank
operating system files. When a DataBank with an older operating system is
connected to a computer that has DataBank software containing new operating
system files, the following upgrade frame will open:
Click OK to allow the upgrade or CANCEL to continue into the Windows software
using the older operating system.
Alternately, users can manually update the DataBank by entering NewDBOS in the
logging interval box under the Setup Options Tab and then clicking Send or pressing
Enter.

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The following screen will appear:
Note: Both of the methods for upgrading will result in the screen above.
Click the Browse button to navigate to a valid Hex file. Valid Hex files begin with a
DB and end with (.hex) and contain the operating system’s version within the
filename. For example, DB3xx.hex is a valid Hex file that can be used to update the
DataBank’s operating system to version 3.xx
After a Hex file is chosen, click OK again to go to the Initialize DataBank for Upgrade
screen. If a valid file is chosen then the screen below will appear.
Follow the instructions as outlined in the screen above to initialize the DataBank for
upgrading.
Note: There are two potential issues that can arise with upgrading the Hex file.
A file error window appears. The cause is the Hex file chosen isn’t correctly
named. This error can be ignored by clicking OK.
A file warning window appears instead of the screen above. The cause is the
Hex file chosen is not designed for use with the DataBank and a new file needs
to be selected for the upgrade.
C:\DBVB\DB3xx.hexC:\DBVB\DB3xx.hex

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Notes
If you fail an upgrade attempt, press all four buttons simultaneously and release
them to reset the DataBank. Then turn the DataBank on and repeat the above
procedure.
In case of serious failure where the DataBank will no longer power up normally,
contact Turner Designs Technical Support department:
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Once the programming mode has been entered the following screen will appear:
Once the upgrade has completed the following screen will appear:
Simply follow the instructions in the window to reset the DataBank and return to
normal operation.
Version 3 Loader Found.Version 3 Loader Found.

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3.6 Save DataBank Records Tab
This section is used to download and save to file or erase data records from the
DataBank.
The following screen shows all the functions available for this section:
3.6.1 Download DataBank’s Records
File Naming
Either manually enter a file path and filename and press Enter or use the
Browse button to select an already existing filename from a desired location.
Note: It is suggested you use the file extension .txt when manually
entering a filename as the file is comma delimited.
Excel users: when importing these data files into Excel, it is suggested that
they be imported as ANSI Comma Delimited text files.
If File Exists –choose to either add downloaded data to an existing file using
the Append option or replace it entirely using the Replace option.
Records to Download –choose the method for downloading data from the
DataBank in the order they were stored, sequentially, or from a selected
group.
All Records, as Stored
owill download data in the order they were stored (1-9999)
All Records, Sequentially
owill download data stored for parameter group 1 first, then parameter
group 2, then parameter group 3, and so on for all 16 parameter
groups
Selected Group Only
owill download data stored for selected parameter group

998-2900 Rev L 17
Note: If Selected Group Only is chosen, the title of that parameter is
displayed next to the parameter group’s number.
Click on Download DataBank’s Records and the following screen will open:
The record shown in the window’s box is listed in the following order:
1) Record #
2) Parameter Group # and range used (x1=High, x10=Med, x100=Low) for
measurement
3) Date and Time (24 hour clock)
4) Sensor mV
5) Calculated Value.
6) Latitude Note: For values measured with GPS enabled.
7) Longitude Note: For values measured with GPS enabled.
Numeric progress can also be viewed on the DataBank’s LCD display.
Once the files are downloaded you should confirm that the data is in the file
prior to deleting the records. Note: If there is no data in the file or no file
saved in the location you will need to create a .txt file in Notepad or
similar application and save it to a location such as your desktop. You
should enter at least 1 character in this file. Repeat step 3.6.1 If a File
Exists.
3.6.2 Delete DataBank’s Records
Click on the Delete DataBank’s Records to open the following screen:
You will need to confirm the deletion of all DataBank Records before the
operation will begin. Click Cancel Deletion to cancel your request and keep
DataBank’s Records intact.

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3.7 Calibration and Auto Gain
This section of the manual explains the features and functions found in the
calibration tab, gives a brief overview of quick calibrations and advanced calibrations,
and explains how to configure auto gain depending on the type of sensor you’re
using. There are numerous ways to calibrate sensors using DataBank software, so it
is up to the user to determine which calibration method should be used for their
sampling protocol. Additional document for step by step calibration can be found
online: http://docs.turnerdesigns.com/t2/doc/tech-notes/S-0173.pdf
3.7.1 Quick Calibration
Quick Calibrations can consist of a single point calibration or a two point
calibration. The DataBank will automatically generate calibration values and
formulas based on the fluorescence readings from the calibration solution
used.
A single point calibration simply requires measuring a blank solution and will
display values in (RFUB) Blank Corrected Raw Fluorescence Values.
Note: A blank solution is a solution without the fluorophore of interest,
for example, de-ionized water, ultrapure water, or filtered water.
A two point calibration requires measuring a blank solution and a standard
solution and will display blank corrected concentration values (i.e. µg/L, ppb,
ppm, mg/L, or NTU).
Single Point Calibration (Raw Fluorescence)
1) Select the parameter group you wish to calibrate using the DataBank’s
Select button.
2) Connect the DataBank to a PC that has DataBank Software using the
interface cable provided.
3) Begin DataBank Software and wait for a connection.
4) Once a connection has been established click the Calibration tab in the
DataBank Software.
5) Choose the parameter group you wish to calibrate from the pull down
menu.
Note: Users should choose the same parameter group as in step 1.
6) Type into the available box the name of the parameter group and hit
Enter on the keyboard.
Note: Up to 16 characters may be entered for a name.
Note: If the name of the parameter shows “UnCalibrated” after
calibration you will need to repeat step 6 above and be sure to hit
Enter on the keyboard.
7) Click the Auto Gain tab and set the gain values using the Default buttons.
Note: Users may manually enter gain settings depending on the
sensor type.

998-2900 Rev L 19
8) Click the Calibration tab. The DataBank’s display should show Low, Med,
or High in the top right hand corner.
Note: If a lower case “s” is displayed followed by 4 numbers then
repeat step 7.
9) Place the sensor in your blank solution and click “OK – proceed to step
2”.
10)The Software will start measuring the blank signal for each gain.
11)When blanking has finished click “OK – proceed to step 3”.
12)From the pull down menu choose RFUB (Raw Fluorescence Units
Blanked) and click “Finalize Calculations”.
13)The following screen will appear when finalizing calculations has
completed.
14)Click OK.
15)The DataBank is now ready for use and you may begin measuring
samples. Values are reported as Blank Corrected Raw Fluorescence
Units (RFUB).
Two point Calibration (Direct Concentration)
1) Follow steps 1-11 from Single Point Calibration Section.
2) Put your sensor in a standard solution of a known concentration.
3) Enter the concentration value of your standard solution in the Enter
Standard Value box.
4) From the pull down menu choose units of measure or manually enter
units of choice; maximum 4 characters.
NOTE: DO NOT CHOOSE RFUB.
5) Click “Proceed to step 4”.
6) The Software will start measuring the standard solution’s signal.
7) When completed, click “Finalize Calculations”.
8) Click OK.
9) The DataBank is now ready for use and you may begin measuring
samples. Values will be reported in units that were set in Step #4.
3.7.2 Advanced Calibration
Advanced calibration allows users to calibrate sensors using multiple
standard solutions for increased accuracy of measurement. Users can take

998-2900 Rev L 20
advantage of this calibration which will generate interpretation equations
based on data collected from multiple standard solutions. Users may also
manually enter values to be used in interpretation equations for calculating
sample concentrations.
Group number –although a number 1 is displayed in this section, you must
access the pull down menu that lists numbers 1-16 (representing the 16
parameter groups) and select a number. This will prompt the DataBank to
download calibration settings, values, and equations for that parameter group
and allow users to continue with the calibration for that parameter group.
Date –displays the last date the selected parameter group was modified or
calibrated. This date is automatically updated and stored when any
modifications are made to the parameter group’s settings.
Units –are either set during quick calibration or manually entered in this box
with a maximum limit of 4 characters (e.g. ppb, ppm, µg/L, NTU, etc.).
Title –is what will be displayed for the selected parameter group when the
DataBank is set to Title Mode instead of Date & Time Mode. Users can set
this title to either describe the formula used in the calibration or the parameter
group being calibrated. This box has a maximum limit of 16 characters (e.g.
Amazon River, RWT RFUB, etc.).
Gain –selections from this pull down menu reflect the gain settings that were
configured in the Auto Gain tab. Each Gain will have its own interpretation
equation.
Interpretation Equation –uses the values entered in each box to convert the
sensor’s readings into concentration values for the units specified. Values
may be entered manually or automatically upon completion of a calibration.
Note: Changing the formula values or (post)-calibrating after data has
been collected for that parameter group will affect all stored data for
that parameter group. It is recommended that the equation’s values be
recorded in a log or SAVE setting to a file after calibration is complete.