UniData Communication Systems Neon 2000 Family User manual
Manual
Neon 2000 Family
2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC
Rules in the U.S.A. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment
is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to
correct the interference at his own expense.
This equipment has been tested for compliance with European regulations as follows:
Application of Council Directive:
2004/108/EC
Standards to which Conformity is declared:
EN-61000-6-1:2001
EN-61000-4-2:1995
EN-61000-4-3:1995
EN-61000-4-4:1995
EN-61000-4-6:1996
ENV-50204:1995
Any changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by the manufacturer Unidata Pty Ltd could void the
user’s authority to operate this equipment.
Revision History
File name/Revision Date Author & Change Details Checked/
approved
Unidata Manual - Neon 2000 Family Remote Terminals and
Modules issue 4.0 25/09/2013 MP – Reformat for web site
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module -
28 05 2015.docx 28 05 2015 PC – Major Update
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module -
09 06 2015.docx 09 06 2015 PC – Reviewed
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module -
22 07 2015.docx
22 07 2015 DM – Add info on reed switch
alignment and hex tool
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module -
20 04 2016.docx
20 04 2016 DM – Update
Assembly/Disassembly
procedure, added jumper
settings
CB
Copyright © Unidata Pty Ltd 2000-2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted,
transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any spoken or computer language, in any form or by any means.
Electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without prior written permission of Unidata Pty
Ltd 40 Ladner St, O’Connor Western Australia 6163.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0Summary of Neon Bole Hole Telemetry Modules............................................................3
1.12024 Neon Bore Hole Metering Module – 3G.....................................................................3
2.0NBHTM LED indicatorS ......................................................................................................4
3.0Terrestrial NBHTM Setup and Test....................................................................................5
4.0NBHTM Power Requirements ............................................................................................5
4.1Internal Power .....................................................................................................................5
4.2External Power....................................................................................................................5
4.3Battery Life Table ................................................................................................................5
5.0NBHTM Installation.............................................................................................................6
5.1SIM Card Recommendations..............................................................................................6
5.2Neon Setup Recommendations ..........................................................................................6
5.3SQL Instrument Connector Pinout ......................................................................................7
5.4Communications Cable Connector Pinouts ........................................................................7
5.5Instrument Connection........................................................................................................8
6.0NBHTM Commissioning...................................................................................................10
6.1NBHTM Powered On.........................................................................................................10
6.2NBHTM Confirm Configuration..........................................................................................10
6.3NBHTM Signal Strength Verification.................................................................................11
6.4NBHTM Initialisation..........................................................................................................11
6.5Reset Switch......................................................................................................................12
6.6Jumper Settings.................................................................................................................13
7.0Battery Testing..................................................................................................................14
7.1Battery Check....................................................................................................................14
7.2Battery Replacement.........................................................................................................14
7.3Instrument Disassembly....................................................................................................15
7.4Battery Connection............................................................................................................17
7.5SIM Card Installation.........................................................................................................18
7.6Instrument Reassembly.....................................................................................................19
8.0NBHTM - 3G External Antenna.........................................................................................21
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 2
References
This manual should be read in conjunction with the associated StarlogV4 User Manual
which describes the setting up of logging schemes for NBHTM terminals as well as all
other Unidata Data loggers.
This manual should also be read in conjunction with the Neon Server Documentation
which is available in PDF form from the Unidata web site and is also available as help
screens within the Neon Server system.
The NBHTM Terminal User Manual, the StarlogV4 User Manual and the Neon Server
User & Administrator Documentation form part of the documentation suite for the overall
Neon System.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 3
1.0 SUMMARY OF NEON BOLE HOLE TELEMETRY MODULES
The 2024F NBHTM (Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module) is a small self-contained unit in a
tubular housing which connects to downhole sensors in bore holes, collects readings from
those sensors, and transmits the collected data to a central server via a cellular telephone
network.
The 2024F NBHTM incorporates a Gore-Tex membrane to allow for pressure
compensation through a waterproof membrane.
The Neon central server system is provided on a Neon Data Service basis and on a Neon
Client System basis and provides a central computer system to monitor and receive data
from many NBHTM units in the field.
The 2024F NBHTM terminal is designed as a telemetry system for bore holes with
diameters of 50mm or greater via 3G /NextG/ WCDMA/ and 2G GPRS cellular networks
from any location within the cellular network coverage area.
Several different antenna options are available depending on the geographic area.
Fully bi-directional communications are possible via the Neon server. Data can be
collected directly and the 2024F NBHTM can be programmed from any internet
connection.
The 2024F NBHTM supports integrated logging or automated collection of data from
another downhole datalogger.
Its built-in modem supports packet data. It has long battery life and low operating costs
through use of advanced microcontroller technology.
Supports GSM 850/ 900/ 1800/ 1900Mhz and 3G 850/ 900/ 1900/ 2100 MHz.
NBHTMs are:
Internet enabled
Tubular case for ease of installation in Bore Holes
with diameters of 50 mm or greater
Up to 5 years battery life depending on reporting schedule
Built in logger with optional 8Mb on-board non-volatile flash memory archive
Almost unlimited data storage
On board SDI-12 interface for connection to SDI 12 downhole sensors
On board Modbus interface for connection to Modbus downhole sensors
1.1 2024 Neon Bore Hole Metering Module – 3G
The 2024F Neon Bore Hole Metering Module – 3G is a
small self-contained stainless steel cased Neon Metering
Module that communicates with the Neon server via NextG
cellular telephone networks.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 4
2.0 NBHTM LED INDICATORS
The simplest indicator is the Red LED which is located on the top endcap
The Green LED indicator is used to show if the NBHTM has a scheme program currently
running. It will flash green briefly each scan (typically 5 seconds) if a scheme program is
loaded and running. This feature is optional and requires a user modification to the
scheme program to enable it.
The Red LED is the primary status indicator.
On first power on the Red LED will be brightly on (not flashing) for 10 seconds indicating
the unit is in the process of being reset. Do not interrupt this initial start-up process. If the
initial start-up is interrupted you should power down, wait a few minutes, and then power
up again.
Slow flashing bright Red LED. One flash per second indicates the NBHTM is
establishing a network connection via the internal modem. This process takes
approximately 10 to 20 seconds.
Fast flashing bright Red LED. 3 to 5 flashes per second indicate the PPP
session is running and the NBHTM is communicating through the internal modem
to the host server. If the NBHTM is programmed to hold the PPP session open all
the time, i.e. the always on mode, the LED will continue to flash at this rate.
Slow brief flashing (dim) Red LED. One dim flash every Scan Interval (typically
every 5 seconds) indicates normal NBHTM operation (sleeping). No
communication is in progress. The NBHTM has been programmed to log data and
will only establish communications at the defined reporting interval with which it
has been configured.
Very occasional bright single Red flash. This indicates the scheme is actively
logging rather than sleeping at that particular time. If you have a scheme which
has a 5 second Scan rate and a 1 minute Log Interval, you will see dim flashes
(indicating sleep) every 5 seconds (i.e. every scan interval), then one bright flash
on the minute, indicating that a log is in progress. This cycle repeats at the Log
Interval, hence the Red LED will brightly flash every 1 minute.
When the NBHTM periodically communicates with the Neon server, the Red LED will
slowly flash as it establishes a network connection, then
quickly flash while it actually communicates with the Neon server (uploads log
data, downloads its scheme, processes queued commands, etc), then
slowly flash as it disconnects from the network
The durations of each stage will vary according to the telemetry type of the NBHTM and
how much data is transferred between the NBHTM and Neon server.
If an NBHTM has been configured on the Neon server to Auto Cold Boot, then after the 10
second start up illumination, the NBHTM will immediately start a normal comms cycle, as
previously described, following the normal slow flashing, fast flashing, slow flashing cycle.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 5
3.0 TERRESTRIAL NBHTM SETUP AND TEST
The Neon Bore Hole Metering Module uses a SIM card which needs to be installed. It
should then connect to the Cellular network within a few seconds of powering on.
Note the SIM card must have the security PIN number switched off or disabled. This
needs to be done by using the SIM card in a normal mobile phone.
4.0 NBHTM POWER REQUIREMENTS
4.1 Internal Power
The NBHTM Terminals can be powered by an internal battery and / or with an external
battery supply. The recommended batteries are SAFT Lithium batteries which are
specified in this manual. The Lithium batteries provide high inrush current required for
modern cellular hand phones.
The NBHTM - 3G has one Lithium Battery for the internal battery supply.
4.2 External Power
If required the NBHTM can be powered by an external supply of 6 to 24VDC @ 300mA
and 30uA standby. Unidata recommends 12AH 6V Gel Cell-type recharge storage
batteries as a good external supply. External instrumentation must be separately
powered if more than 500uA is required. The download schedule is the largest consumer
of power.
The Continuous Drain Equivalent rating can be used to size the external power
requirements and duration of external power supplies. However, external power sources
should have an additional 100uA at 12V or 50uA at 6V continuous drain added, (due to
parasitic losses in the NBHTM circuitry).
The decision to use an external power supply should be based on the projected or known
frequency of battery changes, i.e. if a high download schedule is required and frequent
battery replacement is going to prove difficult or expensive, then an external power supply
is desirable.
4.3 Battery Life Table
Approximate
NBHTM - 3G
Battery Life
Approximate
Download
Schedule
Approximate
Scan Rate Approximate
Log Interval Approximate
Continuous
Drain Equiv
5 years 1 per day 5 secs 15 minutes 0.12 mA
4 years 4 times per
day 5 secs 15 minutes 0.21 mA
1 year 1 per hour 5 secs 15 minutes 0.53 mA
52 days 1 per 5
minutes 5 secs 1 minute 5.2 mA
10 days 1 per minute 5 secs 5 seconds 26 mA
Table 1
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 6
5.0 NBHTM INSTALLATION
The following section describes the NBHTM installation procedure.
5.1 SIM Card Recommendations
It is highly recommended that the SIM is installed in the NBHTM before going to site.
Refer to sections 7.5 for detailed SIM setup installation.
It is also recommended that the contents of the NBHTM installation kit are checked, and
that the NBHTM is tested and confirmed as working before going to site. Even if wireless
communication cannot be verified (for example due to coverage issues), the NBHTM can
still be checked to ensure it has a battery and is powered on, and that communication with
a laptop computer is possible.
Note that high signal strength for the NBHTM will minimise current drain – and prolong
battery life.
5.2 Neon Setup Recommendations
The NBHTM should be registered as part of a scheme before being installed in the field.
This will allow for commissioning of the NBHTM and verification that communications can
be established between the NBHTM and the Neon server.
Once in the field the NBHTM should be placed in the area of greatest signal strength. A
good test for this is to use a mobile phone using the same carrier as the NBHTM, as the
signal strength indicator will show the best location.
Note that due to the slow refresh rate of the mobile phone signal strength indicator, it is
necessary to hold the mobile phone in place for between 30 to 60 seconds to obtain an
accurate reading. If a mobile phone on the same carrier network is not available it is
possible to use the NBHTM itself to determine signal strength.
Avoid installing the NBHTM enclosure in direct sunlight, as cool operating temperatures
will aid longevity of the internal components.
Avoid placing the NBHTM enclosure inside a metal box, or in an area with large amounts
of metal around the NBHTM enclosure, as this can adversely affect the communication
abilities of the NBHTM. If the NBHTM must be located within a metal enclosure, an
external antenna will be required.
Install the NBHTM enclosure in a secure location to avoid tampering and vandalism.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 7
Position the enclosure to ensure cables from NBHTM to field devices are as short as
practical.
If the NBHTM is to be used for real-time communication or for a higher than usual
download schedule (refer to Table 1), an external power supply may be required to avoid
frequent battery replacement. Provision for this should be considered during the
installation, such as installing the NMM within range of a mains power outlet.
5.3 SQL Instrument Connector Pinout
PinNumberColourFunction
1BlackGround(PowerandSignal)
2BrownSDI‐12
3RedModbus+
4YellowAnalogGround
5GreenAnalogInput
6BlueProbePower
7OrangeModbus‐
5.4 Communications Cable Connector Pinouts
DB9Female6PinPlugWireColourSignal
21YellowTX
72OrangeDCD
33BlueRX
44PurpleFTU
55BlackGND
6NoConnect
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 8
5.5 Instrument Connection
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
SQL 7-Pin Female Connector Pinouts (viewed from pins)
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 9
5.5.1 SDI-12 Connections
PinNumberColourFunction
1BlackGround(PowerandSignal)
2BrownSDI‐12
6BlueExternalPower(Optional)
5.5.2 Modbus Connections
PinNumberColourFunction
1BlackGround(PowerandSignal)
3RedModbusB+
7OrangeModbusA‐
6BlueExternalPower(Optional)
5.5.3 Analog Connections
PinNumberColourFunction
1BlackGround(PowerandSignal)
4YellowAnalogGround
5GreenAnalogInput
6BlueExternalPower(Optional)
5.5.4 In-Situ Probe Connections
SQLPlugNo.In‐SituWireColourIn‐SituPinNo.Signal
6Red5Externalpower
7Green3Modbus‐
3Blue2Modbus+
2White1SDI‐12
1Black6Ground
5Brown44‐20mA
Note: Please refer to section 6.6 for jumper setting when using 4-20mA In-Situ sensor.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 10
6.0 NBHTM COMMISSIONING
Once the NBHTM has been installed and all connections made, field commissioning can
be conducted. Ensure that a SIM card has been installed (see next section).
Commissioning tests may be performed as follows.
6.1 NBHTM Powered On
Confirm that the status LED, visible through the transparent window on the front of the
unit, is flashing. With the NBHTM in an idle state the LED will flash faintly once every
second.
6.2 NBHTM Confirm Configuration
Confirm proper configuration by connecting the NBHTM to a laptop computer running
StarlogV4.
Launch the STARLOGV4 (laptop computer) application.
Press the ‘Select’ icon and select the scheme corresponding to the NBHTM
Click on the ‘Configure/Initialise’ button to open the “NRT/NMM Configuration Tool”
dialog
Press the ‘Retrieve NRT Settings’ button at top right of the dialog
Confirm that the correct Server IP address has been configured
Confirm that the correct NRT ID (XRTID) has been configured
Check the firmware version and NRT Model type
If all checks are confirmed, the NBHTM may be Initialised
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 11
6.3 NBHTM Signal Strength Verification
Connect a laptop computer to the NBHTM.
Launch the STARLOGV4 application.
Press the ‘Select’ icon and select the scheme corresponding to the NBHTM.
Click on the ‘Configure/Initialise’ button to open the “NRT/NMM Configuration Tool”
dialog
Press the ‘Retrieve NRT Settings’ button at top right of the dialog
Press the ‘Signal Strength’ button. After a short delay (10 seconds or so), the RSSI
signal strength will be displayed. RSSI must be 16 or higher. If it is 99 then there is
no connection to the cellular network.
If there is sufficient signal, press the Cancel button to exit the Signal Strength option.
6.4 NBHTM Initialisation
Reconnect to the NBHTM if not already connected.
Launch STARLOGV4 (laptop computer) application.
Press the ‘Select’ icon and select the scheme corresponding to the NBHTM
Click on the ‘Configure/Initialise’ button to open the “NRT/NMM Configuration Tool”
dialog
Press the ‘Retrieve NRT Settings’ button at top right of the dialog
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 12
Press the ‘Initialise’ button
The NBHTM will attempt to communicate with the Neon server and initialise itself.
Once communications have been established, the NBHTM will download any required
scheme and configuration files and complete the initialisation process. The NBHTM
should respond with a PASS message after 1 to 3 minutes. Please be patient waiting for
this message.
Once all commissioning tests have been completed successfully, the NBHTM is field-
commissioned and ready for use.
6.5 Reset Switch
The NBHTM can be reset by swiping the supplied magnet across the label as indicated on
the body of the instrument. Note that all stored log data that has not yet been uploaded to
the Neon server will be lost when performing a reset.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 13
6.6 Jumper Settings
There are two jumper settings available. These should be installed during the commission
process, if required. The jumpers are located on the circuit board, inside the instrument
enclosure. Refer to section 7.3 and 7.6 to disassemble and reassemble the instrument.
JP1 sets the modbus termination resistor. Leave open for no terminating resistor, fit the
jumper for a 120 ohm terminating resistor. This resistor is necessary in some installations
for impedance matching. Refer to your sensor manual to determine if this resistor is
required.
JP2 sets the analog channel current loop resistor. Leave open when using an analog
sensor with a voltage type output. Fit the jumper when using a sensor with a 4-20mA type
output. The resistor value is 100 ohms.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 14
7.0 BATTERY TESTING
7.1 Battery Check
The presence of a battery can be verified without opening the NBHTM.
Look for the flashing LED through the window on the front of the NBHTM unit.
If the NBHTM is in an idle state, the LED will flash faintly once every second.
If the LED is not flashing, you will need to open the NBHTM and verify the presence of a
battery.
If a battery is installed and the LED is not flashing, the NBHTM will need to be initialised.
(See section on NBHTM Initialisation on page 11).
7.2 Battery Replacement
Always wait at least 1 minute between removing a battery and either replacing the same
battery or inserting a new battery. This is to allow any residual charge within the NBHTM
to dissipate.
The NBHTM battery should only be replaced with a SAFT LSH20. This is a spiral wound
Lithium Thionyl Chloride [Li-SOCl2] battery with a terminal voltage of 3.6 volts.
Failure to replace the battery with the correct type may cause communication failure.
For further information on the battery and where to purchase replacements, please refer
to www.saft.com
WARNING: Care should be taken when handling lithium batteries as misuse may cause
damage to the NBHTM or the battery cells may explode.
Ensure that the battery terminals are NOT shorted and that there are no loose wires in the
vicinity of the battery.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 15
7.3 Instrument Disassembly
NOTE: There are static sensitive parts inside the metal housing. Discharge yourself to a
grounded metal object before opening the housing
1) Disconnect depth instrument from SQL connector (if fitted)
2) Remove the locating screw in the top endcap
3) Remove the two screws from the stainless steel bottom end plate
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 16
4) Remove the stainless steel bottom end plate and neoprene sealing washer, taking
care not to damage it
5) Gently push the SQL connector into the tube. The whole instrument assembly will
slide out the top of the stainless steel tube. Take care not to touch the components on
the circuit board.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 17
7.4 Battery Connection
For safety reasons the NBHTM is shipped without the internal lithium battery pack
connected. It must be connected during commissioning of the instrument. The battery
can also be replaced when depleted. Perform the following steps to connect or change
the battery:
1) Locate the battery connector on the circuit board.
2) Depress the locking tab on the wire end and slide the connector out of the socket.
Manual – 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module
Unidata Manual - 2024F Neon Bore Hole Telemetry Module - 20 04 2016.docx Page 18
3) Remove the depleted battery then insert the new battery. The battery is held in place
with double sided tape.
4) Plug the fresh battery into the socket.
7.5 SIM Card Installation
1) Locate the SIM Card holder on the circuit board.
2) Slide the cover back and open the holder.
3) Insert the SIM Card in the orientation shown.
4) Close the cover and slide forward to lock SIM Card in place.
This manual suits for next models
1
Table of contents
