Valeport SWiFT SVP User manual

SWiFT SVP & SWiFTplus Operating
Manual
Operating Manual
Document Ref:
Date:
This document was prepared by the staff of Valeport Limited, the Company, and is the property of the
Company, which also owns the copyright therein. All rights conferred by the law of the copyright and by
virtue of international copyright conventions are reserved to the Company. This document must not be
copied, reprinted or reproduced in any material form, either wholly or in part, and the contents of this
document, and any method or technique available therefrom, must not be disclosed to any other person
whatsoever without the prior written consent of the Company.
Valeport Limited
St Peters Quay
Totnes
Devon, TQ9 5EW
United Kingdom
As part of our policy of continuous development, we reserve the right to alter, without prior notice, all
specifications, designs, prices and conditions of supply for all our equipment.
0660879e
July 2019
[phone]
[e-mail] | [e-mail]
www.valeport.co.uk
Tel:
e mail:
Web:

Table of Contents
Valeport Ltd © 2019 Page 2
Table of Contents
..................................................................................................................................... 41. EU Declaration of Conformity - CE Marking
..................................................................................................................................... 62. Important Information
..................................................................................................................................... 73. SWiFT SVP - Sound Velocity Profiler
..................................................................................................................................... 84. SWiFTplus - SVP profiler with Optical Sensor
..................................................................................................................................... 95. Sensors
.................................................................................................................................... 95.1. Sound VelocityMeasurement
.................................................................................................................................... 95.2. Temperature
.................................................................................................................................... 95.3. Pressure Sensor
.................................................................................................................................... 105.4. OpticalSensors
.................................................................................................................................... 10
5.4.1 Fluorometers
.................................................................................................................................... 13
5.4.2 Turbidity
.................................................................................................................................... 145.5. Calculated Parameters
.................................................................................................................................... 14
5.5.1 Calculated Conductivity
.................................................................................................................................... 14
5.5.2 Calculated Salinity
.................................................................................................................................... 14
5.5.3 Calculated Density
..................................................................................................................................... 156. Physical Characteristics
.................................................................................................................................... 156.1. Dimensions-SWiFT SVP
.................................................................................................................................... 156.2. Dimensions-SWiFTplus
..................................................................................................................................... 167. Communications
.................................................................................................................................... 167.1. Interfacing to a PC
.................................................................................................................................... 16
7.1.1 USB Communications
.................................................................................................................................... 18
7.1.2 Bluetooth Communications
.................................................................................................................................... 217.2. Configuration
..................................................................................................................................... 228. Rechargeable Battery
.................................................................................................................................... 238.1. Charging
.................................................................................................................................... 24
8.1.1 Charging Status
.................................................................................................................................... 24
8.1.2 Charging from a Laptop USB Port
.................................................................................................................................... 248.2. Battery Life Expectancy
.................................................................................................................................... 248.3. Shipping Your SWiFT with Lithium Ion Batteries
.................................................................................................................................... 25
8.3.1 Lithium Ion Battery Certification
..................................................................................................................................... 269. Operation

Table of Contents
Page 3 Valeport Ltd © 2019
.................................................................................................................................... 289.1. OperationalModes
.................................................................................................................................... 309.2. OpticalSensor Test-SWiFTplus
.................................................................................................................................... 329.3. Tare.................................................................................................................................... 329.4. Do Not Deploy Flag
.................................................................................................................................... 329.5. Low PowerMode
.................................................................................................................................... 33
9.5.1 Low Power Mode Detail
.................................................................................................................................... 359.6. StatusMessage
.................................................................................................................................... 369.7. Data File
.................................................................................................................................... 379.8. Data File Translation
.................................................................................................................................... 379.9. RealTime Data Format
.................................................................................................................................... 389.10. Care and Maintenance
.................................................................................................................................... 389.11. Software
..................................................................................................................................... 3910. Upgrading Your SWiFT
.................................................................................................................................... 3910.1. Valeport SWiFT - Firmware Upgrade
.................................................................................................................................... 4010.2. Step 1 - Download the Required Files
.................................................................................................................................... 4110.3. Step 2 -Update the Firmware
.................................................................................................................................... 4510.4. Bluetooth Adapter -Re-Program and Pair
..................................................................................................................................... 4811. Ordering and Part Numbers

Valeport Ltd © 2019
0660879e - SWiFT SVP & SWiFTplus Operating Manual
Page 4
1. EU Declaration of Conformity - CE Marking

Valeport Ltd © 2019
EU Declaration of Conformity - CE Marking
Page 5
Please note: Any changes or modifications to the product or accessories supplied, that are not authorised by
Valeport Ltd, could void the CE compliance of the product and negate your authority to operate it. This product
has demonstrated CE compliance under conditions that include the use of shielded cables. It is important that you
use shielded cables compliant with the product’s conformance, to protect from potential damage and reduce the
possibility of interference to other electronic devices.

Valeport Ltd © 2019
0660879e - SWiFT SVP & SWiFTplus Operating Manual
Page 6
2. Important Information
The SWiFT must only be deployed with the suspension spar securely fitted as shown below
Never deploy the instrument with the USB cable connected
In the event that your SWiFT should be required to be disposed of Valeport is WEEE Compliant
For disposal instructions see:
https://www.valeport.co.uk/Portals/0/Docs/Valeport-B2B-Compliance.PDF
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer the protection provided by the equipment
may be impaired.
The safety of any system incorporating the equipment is the responsibility of the assembler of the system.

Valeport Ltd © 2019
SWiFT SVP - Sound Velocity Profiler
Page 7
3. SWiFT SVP - Sound Velocity Profiler
Designed from the outset with the intention of a seamless workflow, the SWiFT profiler provides survey-grade
sensor technology coupled with the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity and rechargeable batteries. An integral
GPS module, to geo-locate each profile, completes the package. Data can be easily and quickly downloaded and
reviewed wirelessly, via Bluetooth, using the either Valeport's Connect PC software or the SWiFT App for iOS
portable devices and instantly shared, in industry standard SVP formats through email and cloud services. Using
the provided USB adapter or cable, Valeport’s Connect software package provides further tools.
In addition to the directly measured sound speed, temperature and pressure observations, Conductivity, Salinity
and Density are calculated using Valeport’s proprietary algorithm developed from extensive laboratory and field
work.
With an operational battery life of up to 5 days and the convenience of charging via USB, SWiFT is intended for
coastal, harbour and inland hydrographic survey use and offers the highest quality sound velocity profiles in a
compact, robust and portable package.
Key Features
1. Self contained, sound velocity, temperature and
pressure profiling system
1.1. From measured observations conductivity,
salinity and density can be calculated
2. Lithium Ion rechargeable battery
3. Depth rated to 200m
4. LED symbols to identify:
4.1. Instrument status
4.2. Battery Status
4.3. GPS Status
4.4. Bluetooth Status
5. Bluetooth connectivity to PC & iOS App.
6. Automatic reacquisition of Bluetooth connection
and file down load on recovery
7. GPS Geo-Location and time
8. Deployment weight that will not interfere with
sensor performance
Applications
A shallow water, self contained Sound Speed profiler
possible applications include:
1. Coastal, harbour and inland hydrographic survey
2. Sound velocity profiling
2.1. Single Beam echo-sounder
2.2. Multi-Beam echo-sounder
2.3. USBL
2.4. Imaging sonar
3. Lakes, reservoir and river studies

Valeport Ltd © 2019
0660879e - SWiFT SVP & SWiFTplus Operating Manual
Page 8
4. SWiFTplus - SVP profiler with Optical Sensor
Extending the SWiFT's functionality still further the SWiFTplus offers all the performance of SWiFT SVP with the
addition of an optical sensor.
Key Features
1. Everything a SWiFT SVP can do plus
2. An optical sensor:
2.1. Turbidity
2.2. Chlorophyll a
2.3. Fluorescein
2.4. Rhodamine
Applications
A shallow water, self contained Sound Speed profiler
possible applications include:
1. Coastal, harbour and inland hydrographic survey
2. Turbidity surveys - dredging, pollution, sediment
loading
3. Environmental survey - Chlorophyll a,
Phycoerythrin
4. Dye tracing surveys - Fluorescein, Rhodamine
5. Sound velocity profiling
5.1. Single Beam echo-sounder
5.2. Multi-Beam echo-sounder
5.3. USBL
5.4. Imaging sonar
6. Lakes, reservoir and river studies

Valeport Ltd © 2019
Sensors
Page 9
5. Sensors
5.1. Sound Velocity Measurement
Utilising Valeport's latest design for the world's most accurate sound velocity sensor, each measurement is made
using a single pulse of sound travelling over a precisely known distance, so is independent of the inherent
calculation errors present in CTD calculated data. Valeport's unique digital signal processing technique virtually
eliminates signal noise, and gives almost instantaneous response; the digital measurement is also entirely linear,
giving predictable performance under all conditions.
Range:
1375 - 1900m/s
Resolution:
0.001m/s
Accuracy:
±0.020m/s
Acoustic
Frequency:
2.5MHz
5.2. Temperature
The SWiFT is fitted with an accurate Platinum Resistance Thermometer (PRT) temperature sensor.
Type:
PRT
Range:
-5°C to +35°C
Accuracy:
±0.01°C
Resolution:
0.001°C
5.3. Pressure Sensor
The SWiFT is supplied with either a 100m or 200m rated piezo-resistive pressure transducer
Type:
Strain Gauge
Accuracy:
±0.05% range
Resolution:
0.001% range

Valeport Ltd © 2019
0660879e - SWiFT SVP & SWiFTplus Operating Manual
Page 10
5.4. Optical Sensors
An optical sensor must be kept clean to operate correctly. Ensure that the SWiFT is powered down before
cleaning the sensor.
Use warm soapy water with a soft bristled brush to remove any light fouling.
For heavy fouling use a solvent (e.g Isopropyl alcohol) and a soft bristled brush.
Always rinse thoroughly after every use in clean, fresh water.
5.4.1. Fluorometers
5.4.1.1. Safety Statement
A Valeport Fluorometer is classified as Risk Group 1 under standard 62471. As the type is classified as Risk Group 1
solely due to radiation in the visible band a hazard label is not required. However,
·the LED used is in excess of the Exempt Group and that the viewer- related risk is dependent upon how the user
installs and operates the equipment.
·the exposure hazard value (EHV) for a Valeport Fluorometer in terms of distance is 320mm.
Never look directly into the optical aperture
5.4.1.2. Chlorophyll a
Performance
Excitation:
470 nm
Detection:
696 nm
Dynamic Range:
0-800 µg/l
2 gain settings: 0-40 and 0-800 (software controlled)
Instrument
Detection limit:
0.025 µg/l*
Actual
Detection limit:
0.025 µg /l**
Linearity:
0.99 R2
Response Time:
0.03 to 2 sec
* 3x SD in RO water
** calibrated against Chlorophyll a in acetone solution

Valeport Ltd © 2019
Sensors
Page 11
5.4.1.3. Fluorescein
Performance
Excitation:
470 nm
Detection:
545 nm
Dynamic Range:
0-500 ppb
2 gain settings: 0-25 and 0-500 (software controlled)
Instrument
Detection limit:
<0.01 ppb*
Actual
Detection limit:
0.03 ppb**
Linearity:
0.99 R2
Response Time:
0.03 to 2 sec
* 3x SD in RO water
** Calibrated against Fluorescein solution
5.4.1.4. Rhodamine
Performance
Excitation:
520 nm
Detection:
650 nm
Dynamic Range:
0-1000 ppb
2 gain settings, 0-50, 0-1000 (software controlled)
Instrument
Detection limit:
<0.01 ppb*
Actual
Detection limit:
0.06 ppb**
Linearity:
0.99 R2
Response Time:
0.03 to 2 s
* 3x SD in RO water
** Calibrated against Rhodamine solution

Valeport Ltd © 2019
0660879e - SWiFT SVP & SWiFTplus Operating Manual
Page 12
5.4.1.5. Linear Observation Range
The linear range is the concentration range for which the fluorometer signal is directly proportional to the
concentration of the fluorophore. The linear range starts at the minimum detection limit (MDL) and extends to the
upper limit of the instrument (dependent on fluorophore properties, optical filters, LED power, sample volume and
optical path length).
Valeport Fluorometers have a calibrated linear response for 2 gain settings (e.g. the ranges 0-40 µg/l (G5) and 0-
800 µg/l (G1) for chlorophyll a). At higher concentrations, unlike analogue devices which generally flat-line at full-
scale deflection (e.g. FSD 5V) the fluorometer will continue to output a signal which increases with concentration
(i.e. meaningful data), though which is no longer guaranteed to be linear.
At very high fluorophore concentrations, signal quenching can occur, whereby the instrument output does not
increase linearly with fluorophore concentration (roll-off) and may decrease at even higher levels.
To perform a quick linearity check, dilute the sample 1:1 with RO water. If the reading decreases by 50%, the
sample is in the linear range. If the reading decreases by less than 50% or even increases, the sample is above the
linear range.

Valeport Ltd © 2019
Sensors
Page 13
5.4.1.5.1 Quenching
Quenching refers to the reduction in fluorescence of a fluorophore. Several processes can result in quenching:
1. Chloride is known to quench quinine sulphate and Fluorescein. It is, therefore, advisable to prepare any
fluorophore solutions with RO* or DI** water.
2. Temperature quenching - as the temperature of the sample increases, the fluorescence decreases, that is,
fluorescence is sensitive to temperature. In order to improve accuracy, measure the sample at different
temperatures and derive corrections for changes in temperature.
3. Photo-bleaching (or fading) is the (permanent) degradation of a fluorophore molecule by light resulting in
lower signal levels. Photo-bleaching is dependent on exposure (intensity of light and duration) and wavelength
(UV is more damaging than longer wavelengths). Use of more robust fluorophores is recommended to avoid
photo-bleaching.
* Reverse Osmosis
** De-Ionised
5.4.2. Turbidity
Valeport's Turbidity technology is essentially two sensors in one. The first is a “classic” nephelometer, using a 90°
beam angle for turbidity levels between 0 and 2000 NTU. The second sensor uses optical backscatter - OBS
(~120° beam angle) for turbidity levels beyond 10 000 NTU. Both sensors output data simultaneously, at a
programmable rate, so there is no need to switch ranges as conditions vary. Intelligent sampling and the use of a
24 bit ADC eliminates the need to switch gain. The optical head is very compact, measuring just 20mm diameter
and is rated to full ocean depth.
Excitation\Detection:
850nm
Linear Range:
Nephelometer 0 to >1 000 NTU - linear response
Optical Backscatter: 0 to 4 000 NTU - linear response
(>4,000 NTU has a non-linear monotonic response that allows derivation of higher
values using look-up tables)
Minimum Detection
Level
0.03 NTU
5.4.2.1. Safety Statement
The Turbidity sensor is classified EXEMPT under the standard 62471.
As a Valeport Turbidity sensor is classified as EXEMPT a hazard label in not required.
Never look directly into the optical aperture

Valeport Ltd © 2019
0660879e - SWiFT SVP & SWiFTplus Operating Manual
Page 14
5.5. Calculated Parameters
5.5.1. Calculated Conductivity
From directly measured sound velocity, temperature and pressure, SWiFT calculates Conductivity using a
proprietary Valeport algorithm developed from extensive laboratory and fieldwork.
Type:
Calculated
Accuracy:
±0.05 mS/cm
Resolution:
0.001 mS/cm
5.5.2. Calculated Salinity
From directly measured sound velocity, temperature and pressure, SWiFT calculates Salinity using a proprietary
Valeport algorithm developed from extensive laboratory and fieldwork.
Type:
Calculated
Accuracy:
±0.05 PSU
Resolution:
0.001 PSU
5.5.3. Calculated Density
From directly measured sound velocity, temperature and pressure, Density is calculated using a proprietary
Valeport algorithm developed from extensive laboratory and field work.
Type:
Calculated
Accuracy:
±0.05 kg/m3
Resolution:
0.001 kg/m3

Valeport Ltd © 2019
Physical Characteristics
Page 15
6. Physical Characteristics
SWiFTSVP:
Housing & Bulkhead:
Titanium
Deployment Weight:
Stainless Steel
Depth Rating:
200m (Titanium)
Weight:
(Titanium Housing)
2.0kg (in air) / 0.9kg (in water)
3.0kg (in air) /1.8kg (in water)
with optional Deployment Weight
6.1. Dimensions - SWiFT SVP
Please refer to Valeport for more detailed dimensions if required.
6.2. Dimensions - SWiFTplus
Please refer to Valeport for more detailed dimensions if required.

Valeport Ltd © 2019
0660879e - SWiFT SVP & SWiFTplus Operating Manual
Page 16
7. Communications
The SWiFT is designed to communicate primarily through a Bluetooth interface but has cabled RS232 comms
capability as a fall back.
The Bluetooth module communicates with an iOS App and can be used with Valeport's Connect software in the
same way. If Bluetooth is not available the RS232 comms cable can be used directly with Connect.
Baud Rate:
230400
Protocol:
8 data bits, 1 stop bit, No parity, No flow control
7.1. Interfacing to a PC
There are two methods of connecting a SWiFT to a PC:
1. A wired connection using the supplied USB cable
2. Bluetooth with the supplied USB key.
7.1.1. USB Communications
The SWiFT contains a USB-Serial FDTI chip. When the SWiFT is first plugged into the USB port of a PC it will
install the relevant FTDI drivers.
Please note that when the USB cable is plugged into the SWiFT the GPS module is switch off.
This installation may require administration rights for the installation of the serial port drivers, if the drivers do
not automatically install they can be manually installed by running the CDM v2.12.00 WHQL Certified utility.
The SWiFT will be assigned a COM port (e.g. COM 10) and on every subsequent connection it will retain this port.
To find out the COM port of a connected SWiFT, access the devices and printers selection from Windows Control
Panel.
In the Unspecified section you will find “SWiFT SVP xxxxx” where xxxxx is the serial number.
Right click and select Properties, next select the Hardware tab and you will see the assigned COM port.

Valeport Ltd © 2019
Communications
Page 17
The Connect Utility will then be able to communicate with and configure the SWiFT SVP using the configured
COM port.
in Windows 10:

Valeport Ltd © 2019
0660879e - SWiFT SVP & SWiFTplus Operating Manual
Page 18
7.1.2. Bluetooth Communications
SWiFT is fitted with a Bluetooth 4.0 LE chip. This allows short range wireless comms with a Windows 10 PC or hand
held device running the Valeport Connect App. Using the App will allow the instrument to be configured and
recorded data downloaded.
The reliable range of the Bluetooth comms is 5 to 10m.
The SWiFT is supplied with a Valeport Bluetooth Key. Prior to delivery each key is pre-paired and bound to the
SWiFT that it is supplied with. The pairing can be updated using the vp_Bluetooth application provided and
available to down load from the Valeport Downloads site (http://valeport.download/).
The SWiFT will not communicate with native Windows 10 Bluetooth or any other type of Bluetooth key
If the supplied Key is lost or damaged, it can only be replaced with another Valeport key.
The Valeport Bluetooth Key will install as a USB serial port and will be assigned a COM port (e.g. comm 9) and on
every subsequent connection it will retain this COM port designation. This installation may require administration
rights for the installation of the serial port drivers, if the drivers do not automatically install they can be manually
installed by running the CDM v2.12.00 WHQL Certified utility contained in the Connect installation folder on the
supplied USB flash drive.
To find out the COM port of the Valeport Bluetooth Key, access the devices and printers selection from Windows
Control Panel.
In the Unspecified section you will find “Serial Port Adapter".
Right click and select Properties, next select the Hardware tab and you will see the assigned COM port.

Valeport Ltd © 2019
Communications
Page 19
The Valeport Bluetooth Key is configured to automatically establish a connection to its paired SWiFT whenever it
comes into range. The Key scans every 10 seconds so may take up to 10 seconds to connect after the SWiFT is
switched on or comes into range. The LED on the Valeport Bluetooth Key gives an indication of operational
status.
LED Status
Operation
Green
Not Connected
Purple
Scanning for paired instrument
Blue
Connected (Flashing - data transfer)
Orange
Configuration Mode
Red
Error
None
Not connected or Drivers not installed correctly
When the connection is established, the Bluetooth symbol on the SWiFT end cap will turn from green to blue. The
Connect Utility will then be able to communicate and configure the SWiFT SVP over Bluetooth using the
configured COM port. The SWiFT can only maintain one Bluetooth connection at a time so can either talk to the
mobile app OR the Valeport USB key.

Valeport Ltd © 2019
0660879e - SWiFT SVP & SWiFTplus Operating Manual
Page 20
7.1.2.1. Regulatory and Safety Information
EU Declaration of Conformity
SWiFT SVP and SWiFTplus Profilers have u-blox type AG OBS421 stand-alone dual-mode Bluetooth® module
fitted as standard. There is the same type of Bluetooth module fitted in the USB communications device supplied
with the SWiFT.
It complies with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Radio Equipment Directive (RED)
2014/53/EU and Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive 2011/65/E
Essential Requirements
Radio Equipment Directive
2014/53/EU
Standards
Safety & Health
(Article 3.1a)
IEC 60950-1:2005 + A1:2009
EN 60950-1:2006 + A11:2009 + A1:2010 + A12:2011 + AC:2011 + A2:2013
EN 62479:2010
EMC (Article 3.1b)
EN 301 489-1 V2.1.1
EN 301 489-17 V3.1.1
IEC 60601-1-2:2007 (Medical Electrical Equipment
Radio Spectrum Efficiency
(Article 3.2)
EN 300 328 V2.1.1
Essential Requirements RoHS
Directive 2011/65/EU
Standards
Prevention
(Article 4.1)
EN 50581:2012
FCC Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Radio Frequency Exposure
The OEM Serial Port Adapter contains a small radio transmitter and receiver. During communication with other
Bluetooth products the OEM Serial Port Adapter receives and transmits radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields
(microwaves) in the frequency range 2400 to 2500 MHz. The output power of the radio transmitter is very low.
When using the OEM Serial Port Adapter, you will be exposed to some of the transmitted RF energy. This exposure
is well below the prescribed limits in all national and international RF safety standards and regulations.