Wildlife Acoustics Song Meter Mini 2 User manual

Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
January 12, 2024

Table of Contents
1. Song Meter Mini 2 Quickstart Guide ................................................................................... 3
2. Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 4
2.1. About the Song Meter Mini 2 ................................................................................... 4
2.2. Changes from the Song Meter Mini to the Song Meter Mini 2 ................................. 4
2.3. Baery Configuration Versions .............................................................................. 6
2.4. Useful Resources ................................................................................................... 7
3. Song Meter Mini 2 Hardware ............................................................................................ 8
3.1. External Features ................................................................................................... 8
3.2. Internal Features ................................................................................................... 11
3.3. Installing a Second Microphone ............................................................................ 16
3.4. Upgrading the Recorder’s Firmware .................................................................... 17
3.5. Loading a Configuration File from an SD Card ....................................................... 18
3.6. Exporting Configuration and Diagnostic Files to an SD Card from the Main
Panel ........................................................................................................................... 19
4. Song Meter Configurator App .......................................................................................... 21
4.1. About the App ........................................................................................................ 21
4.2. Recorders Screen ................................................................................................ 23
4.3. Configuration Editor Screen ................................................................................. 31
4.4. Configuration Library Screen .............................................................................. 49
4.5. App Information Screen ...................................................................................... 55
4.6. Understanding Schedules .................................................................................... 56
5. Recording Files ............................................................................................................... 63
5.1. Transferring Recording Files to a Computer ......................................................... 63
5.2. WAV Files .............................................................................................................. 63
5.3. Metadata .............................................................................................................. 63
6. Analysis Software ........................................................................................................... 65
6.1. Kaleidoscope Pro .................................................................................................. 65
6.2. Third-Party Software ........................................................................................... 67
7. Maintanance ................................................................................................................... 68
7.1. Deployment Checklist ........................................................................................... 68
7.2. Waterproofing ..................................................................................................... 68
7.3. Mounting .............................................................................................................. 68
7.4. Security ............................................................................................................... 69
8. Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................. 70
8.1. Recorder Not Turning On ...................................................................................... 70
8.2. Recorder Not Updating Status ............................................................................. 70
8.3. Unable to Pair App with Recorder ......................................................................... 71
8.4. SD Card Error Messages ...................................................................................... 72
9. Specifications ................................................................................................................. 75
9.1. Physical Specifications .......................................................................................... 75
9.2. Audio and Microphones ........................................................................................ 75
9.3. Baeries .............................................................................................................. 76
9.4. SD Cards .............................................................................................................. 78
10. Warranty and Disclosures ............................................................................................. 79
Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
2

1. SONG METER MINI 2 QUICKSTART GUIDE
Out of the box, the Song Meter Mini 2 can be quickly configured to run one of a few preset
schedules that cover common use cases.
1. Unlatch and open the lid on the Song Meter Mini 2.
2. Depending on the version, insert four or eight AA baeries or between one and six Lithium-
ion baeries.
For additional information regarding baeries, see Baeries (page 76).
3. Insert an SD Card into the recorder's SD Card slot.
For additional information regarding SD cards, see SD Cards (page 78).
4. Slide the ON/OFF switch to ON .
If the Bluetooth ® LED flashes red, this indicates that the recorder's internal clock is not set.
It will be set when pairing.
5. Install the Song Meter Configurator app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store onto
your mobile device.
6. Check that Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device.
7. Open the Song Meter Configurator app.
The Recorders screen will be displayed. The Song Meter Mini 2 will automatically be detected
by the app and will appear in the Recorders screen.
8. Press and hold the PAIR/STATUS buon on the Song Meter Mini 2 for three seconds.
The Bluetooth LED will blink green, indicating the recorder is ready to pair with the app.
In the Song Meter Configurator app Recorders screen, the Pair icon is displayed next to the
Song Meter Mini 2.
9. Tap the Pair icon.
The icon will turn green, indicating successful pairing.
A pop-up message will appear asking if you want to set the recorder's time zone to your
mobile device's time zone.
10. Tap Yes.
A pop-up message will appear asking if you want to set the recorder's location to your mobile
device's location.
11. Tap Yes.
12. Tap the Configure icon for the paired Song Meter Mini 2 in the Recorders screen.
The Configuration Editor screen is displayed.
13. Select a preset recording schedule from the dropdown menu and make any desired seings
changes.
The Song Meter Mini 2 is now ready to deploy and record using the schedule you selected.
NOTE
Any changes made in the Configuration Editor screen are immediately loaded
and saved into the Song Meter Mini 2. There is no need to manually save changes.
If the Song Meter Mini 2 is unpaired or powered o, it will remember any changes
made from within the Configuration Editor screen.
Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
3

2. INTRODUCTION
2.1. ABOUT THE SONG METER MINI 2
The Wildlife Acoustics Song Meter Mini 2 acoustic recorder oers simple, yet innovative tools for
recording birds, frogs, and other vocal wildlife.
The Song Meter Mini 2 leverages the processing power of modern smartphones with the Song
Meter Configurator app. This companion app allows you to program the seings and schedules
of multiple recorders and to check essential status info like baery and card usage from within
Bluetooth range of the recorder.
2.2. CHANGES FROM THE SONG METER MINI TO THE SONG METER
MINI 2
The Song Meter Mini 2 builds on the first-generation Song Meter Mini by taking into account the
feedback we have received from users in all types of scenarios since the original product's launch
in 2019.
The first- and second-generation recorders share much in common, and users coming from
the original Song Meter Mini will find themselves well at home with the new Song Meter Mini
2. However, there are several major improvements worth highlighting, as well as functional
dierences that we recommend keeping in mind, particularly if you have a mixed fleet of first-
and second-generation recorders.
2.2.1. Improved Enclosure
The Song Meter Mini 2's enclosure has been completely redesigned from the ground up to be
more robust and easier to use.
While the first-generation Song Meter Mini's enclosure was comprised of a separate base and lid,
the enclosure of the Song Meter Mini 2 is joined by a permanent hinge, and the new, lockable latch
can be more easily operated with one hand. The latch can be locked close using an appropriately
sized padlock, without requiring an additional security bracket.
NOTE
The optional Security Bracket accessory for the first-generation Song Meter Mini
is not compatible with the Song Meter Mini 2.
The seal between the two halves of the enclosure has been improved, and the enclosure
(excluding acoustic stub mics) passes IP67 standards. This means it is dust-tight and can
withstand temporary submersion in water up to a depth of one meter. Note that installed
acoustic stub mics can still be damaged by underwater submersion, though they are protected
against rain.
The back of the Song Meter Mini 2 features a tripod-style, ¼”-20 threaded mounting point. This
enables you to mount the recorder using many accessories designed for trail cameras and
similar devices.
For more detailed information on the new enclosure, see Song Meter Mini 2
Hardware (page 8).
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2.2.2. Baery Configuration
The original Song Meter Mini had one built-in AA baery tray, allowing the use of four AA baeries
by default. The optional Lithium-Ion Lid accessory replaced the standard lid with a compartment
for up to six 18650 lithium-ion baeries, installed in pairs.
The Song Meter Mini 2 now comes in two entirely separate versions, AA and Li-ion, each with
a permanently installed baery tray for its respective baery type. See Baery Configuration
Versions (page 6) for more detail.
NOTE
The Song Meter Mini 2 is not compatible with the Lithium-Ion Lid accessory for
the first generation Song Meter Mini.
AA Baeries
The Song Meter Mini 2 AA can be used with either four or eight AA baeries. With eight AA
baeries installed, you can record for twice as long as the original Song Meter Mini could with AA
baeries. Ribbons built into the AA baery trays allow you to remove baeries much more easily.
FOUR OR EIGHT: MAXIMUM AA VOLTAGE IS THE SAME
AA baeries in the Song Meter Mini 2 AA are wired in two parallel sets of four
baeries. This means that the recorder's Status screen will show the same
voltage reading whether four or eight brand-new baeries are installed. The
voltage reading on a recorder with eight baeries will decline at half the speed
compared to a recorder with four baeries.
Lithium-Ion Baeries
The Song Meter Mini 2 Li-ion can be used with any number of 18650 baeries between one and
six. Unlike the first-generation Song Meter Mini's Lithium-Ion Lid accessory, 18650 baeries do
not need to be installed in pairs.
CHANGE IN VOLTAGE READING
The original Song Meter Mini's Lithium-Ion Lid used pairs of 18650 baeries in
parallel with other pairs of baeries. The new Song Meter Mini 2 Li-ion uses
individual 18650 baeries in parallel with each other. This means that the voltage
reading on the Song Meter Mini 2Li-ion's Status screen is half that of the original
Song Meter Mini, despite having the same possible deployment time.
For example, with six fully charged 18650 baeries, a first-generation Song Meter
Mini will display a voltage of 8.4 V, while a Song Meter Mini 2 will display a voltage
of 4.2 V. Both recorders have the same total energy available despite the voltage
dierence.
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2.2.3. Configuration and Firmware Files are Cross-Compatible
The Song Meter Mini and Song Meter Mini 2 run the same firmware versions, meaning both will be
improved by the same new features and bug fixes as we release firmware updates.
Both recorders can also share configuration files. A configuration file exported from a Song
Meter Mini can be imported into a Song Meter Mini 2, and vice-versa. This provides a simple way
to maintain consistent seings across a mixed fleet of recorders.
NOTE
Configuration files that include the use of an optional second microphone
cannot be completely imported into a recorder that does not have the second
microphone installed. Relevant seings will be altered to only use the available
microphone.
2.3. BATTERY CONFIGURATION VERSIONS
The Song Meter Mini 2 can be purchased with one of two options for baery power:
• The Song Meter Mini 2 AA can run on either four or eight AA baeries.
Alkaline, NiMH, and Energizer® Ultimate Lithium™ baeries can be used. All installed baeries
must match. See Types of AA Baeries (page 76) for more information.
• The Song Meter Mini 2 Li-ion can run on between one and six 18650 Lithium-ion (Li-ion)
baeries. See Lithium-Ion Baery Requirements (page 77) for details on choosing compatible
baeries.
NOTE
These are two separate versions of the Song Meter Mini 2. Neither version can be
converted or reconfigured to use the other type of baery.
The type of baery used significantly aects deployment time. As a general rule, 18650 Lithium-
ion baeries hold significantly more energy than AA baeries, and they are, by definition,
rechargeable. Using six, high-quality 18650 Lithium-ion baeries will enable the longest possible
deployments with the Song Meter Mini 2.
Other than the dierences in baery compatibility, the AA and Li-ion versions of the Song Meter
Mini 2 are identical in functionality.
IMPORTANT
Lithium-ion baeries are not to be confused with Energizer® Ultimate Lithium™
(Lithium/Iron Disulfide) baeries.
18650 Lithium-ion baeries are larger and put out a much higher voltage than
all types of AA baeries. 18650 Lithium-ion baeries therefore cannot be used
interchangeably with any AA baery.
Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
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For specifications regarding baeries and deployment times, see: Baeries (page 76).
2.4. USEFUL RESOURCES
2.4.1. Where to Find This User Guide
This user guide is published in multiple locations:
• View a PDF in your web browser or download to your device at www.wildlifeacoustics.com/
resources/user-guides.
• In the Song Meter Configurator app, open App Info > User Guide.
The Song Meter Configurator app can be installed from the Apple App Store and Google Play
Store.
NOTE
This user guide is updated regularly. If you use a saved copy of the PDF to view
this guide, consider checking our website for an updated version. Whenever you
update the Song Meter Configurator app, the latest version of the user guide is
installed with the app.
2.4.2. Video Tutorials
Visit our Video Tutorials page to view tutorial videos for the Song Meter Mini 2.
2.4.3. Frequently Asked Questions
You can find answers to many common questions on our website, under Resources > Frequently
Asked Questions.
hps://www.wildlifeacoustics.com/resources/faqs
2.4.4. Don’t Miss Out on Important Updates
We continually add features to the Song Meter Mini 2. Stay up to date with the newest features
and receive important technical support bulletins by signing up to our Mailing List.
2.4.5. Contacting Support
For technical questions, contact the Wildlife Acoustics support team using one of the methods
below. If contacting us via our website, please provide as much detail as you can so we can
provide eective help as quickly as possible.
•www.wildlifeacoustics.com/contact-us
• North America (toll-free): 1-888-733-0200
• Outside North America (toll charges may apply): [phone]
Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
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3. SONG METER MINI 2 HARDWARE
3.1. EXTERNAL FEATURES
The Song Meter Mini 2 recorder is designed for long-term, outdoor deployment. Made from
durable polycarbonate plastic, it is UV-resistant and weatherproof.
Notable external features of the Song Meter Mini 2:
1. Lockable Latch (page 9): Located along the top edge of the recorder.
2. Primary Microphone (page 9): Every Song Meter Mini 2 comes with a microphone installed
on the left edge of the recorder, covered by a foam windscreen. An optional second
microphone may be installed on the right edge.
3. Enclosure Hinge (page 9): The lid and body of the recorder are aached by a permanent
hinge along the lower edge.
4. Mounting Points (page 9) (shown in front and back views): At the centers of the upper and
lower edges are mounting holes, suitable for zip ties, bungie cords, compatible cable locks,
or screws.
5. Tripod Mount (page 9): A camera-style tripod threaded socket, located on the back face of
the Song Meter Mini 2 enclosure, provides additional mounting options.
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External features, continued:
6. Optional Acoustic Microphone Port (page 10): A second acoustic microphone can be
installed on the right edge of the Song Meter Mini 2. When a second microphone is not
installed, the port is occupied by a plastic hex bolt.
7. Air Vent (page 10): Located on the lower-right edge of the recorder, this vent has an
internal membrane that allows air and moisture regulation without allowing water ingress.
3.1.1. Lockable Latch
A latch is used to close the lid. The latch is easily closed or opened by hand. The latch will snap
closed to provide a tight seal for the lid. See Lock Compatibility (page 10) for details on choosing
a compatible padlock for locking the latch shut.
3.1.2. Microphones
By default, the Song Meter Mini 2 utilizes a single built-in acoustic microphone. The microphone
has a replaceable windscreen.
An additional acoustic microphone can be purchased and added to the Song Meter Mini 2. This
enables you to record in stereo (two-channel) or to specify the left or right channel for mono
(one-channel) recording.
When two microphones are used, the built-in microphone is considered channel 0, left. The
optional second microphone is considered channel 1, right.
3.1.3. Hinged Lid
The lid for the Song Meter Mini 2 is permanently connected to the body of the recorder via
a hinge and lockable latch. When the lid is latched close, a silicone rubber gasket creates a
watertight seal between the lid and body.
3.1.4. Mounting Points
Mounting points can be used to secure the recorder to a branch or post (for example). Typical
mounting methods include screws, bungie cords, cable locks, and zip ties. See Lock Compatibility
(page 10) for spefications on compatible cable locks.
3.1.5. Tripod Mount
On the rear of the Song Meter Mini 2 recorder is a standard-sized threaded socket. This socket is
typically used for camera tripod mounts or any other type of mount which uses the same thread
size.
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Tripod mount thread size specification: 1/4ʺ20 pitch.
3.1.6. Optional Acoustic Microphone Port
The Song Meter Mini 2 has a port for an optional second microphone. This allows for recording
two channels of audio at once and provides redundancy in case one microphone is damaged.
The optional, second microphone can be installed on the right edge of the recorder. When the
optional microphone is not installed, a plastic bolt and rubber gasket are used to seal the port.
For instructions on installing the optional acoustic microphone, see Installing a Second
Microphone (page 16).
3.1.7. Air Vent
An air vent on the side of the enclosure prevents pressure build-up inside the recorder but does
not allow water ingress during normal use.
WARNING
The air vent opening must not be blocked or covered in any way.
A self-regenerating desiccant packet inside the enclosure oers further protection; it will absorb
or release moisture to regulate humidity inside the recorder.
3.1.8. Lock Compatibility
The upper-left and upper-right corners of the Song Meter Mini 2 enclosure feature loops through
which a cable lock can be fed to secure the recorder to a tree or structure. The diameter of the
cable must be narrower than the internal diameter of these loops, which is 0.420'' (10.67 mm).
To keep the lid of the Song Meter Mini 2 locked closed, a padlock can be inserted in the loop
on the right side of the latch. The internal diameter of this padlock loop is 0.268'' (6.81 mm). We
recommend a padlock with a shackle diameter of 1/4''. A padlock with a shackle narrower than
3/16'' will not prevent the latch from completely opening.
IMPORTANT
When a 3/16'' or 1/4'' shackle-diameter padlock is installed, it is possible for
the latch to be partially undone. This does not allow the lid to be fully opened,
but it can loosen the seal between the two halves of the enclosure and may
compromise the enclosure's weatherproofing.
Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
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3.2. INTERNAL FEATURES
1. ON/OFF Switch (page 12): Located in the lower left of the main internal panel.
2. PAIR/STATUS Buon (page 12): Located to the immediate right of the ON/OFF switch.
3. Status LEDs (page 12): Four green/red LEDs laid out horizontally to the right of the PAIR/
STATUS buon and to the left of the FUNCTION buon.
4. Baery Compartment (page 13): The baeries are installed in the lid of the enclosure,
opposite from the main control panel.
5. SD Card Slot (page 14): Located in the upper-right of the main internal panel. SD cards can be
inserted into the slot under a protective plastic panel.
Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
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6. Right Microphone Connector (page 14): Located to the immediate right of the SD Card slot.
7. FUNCTION Buon (page 15): Located to the right of the four Status LEDs.
3.2.1. ON/OFF Switch
•On (up position): Baery power is enabled. Schedule is started.
•O (down position): Baery power is disabled. Schedule is stopped.
When the Song Meter Mini 2 recorder is first powered on, the Status LEDs show Bluetooth,
Recording, and SD Card status. If the recorder is left alone for one minute, the LEDs will turn o.
NOTE
When the Song Meter Mini 2 recorder is switched o, it goes through a routine to
end and save any current recording. This can take a few seconds.
3.2.2. PAIR/STATUS Buon
This is a dual-function buon.
The Song Meter Mini 2 Status LEDs turn o after one minute without user input. Tap the PAIR/
STATUS buon once to reactivate the Status LEDs.
Press the PAIR/STATUS buon once to check the Status LEDs.
Press and hold the PAIR/STATUS buon for three seconds to enable pairing with the Song Meter
Configurator app. You must the tap the Pair icon in the app to complete the pairing.
To unpair, press and hold the PAIR/STATUS buon on the Song Meter Mini 2 recorder for three
seconds, or tap the Unpair icon in the Song Meter Configurator app.
3.2.3. Status LEDs
The three Status LEDs on the recorder provide Bluetooth, Recording, and SD Card information.
The Status LEDs remain active while the recorder is paired with the Song Meter Configurator
app.
The table of Status LED definitions, below, is also found inside the recorder’s lid for reference.
Table 1. Status LED Key
LED Label LED Activity Status Meaning
Bluetooth: O Not paired
Green Blinking Pairing
Green Solid Paired
Red Blinking Clock needs to be set
Red Solid Pair failed
Recording: Green Blinking Recording
Green Solid Waiting for next recording period
Red Solid Cannot record
SD Card: O No card detected
Green Blinking Card is active: do not eject
Green Solid No activity: safe to eject
Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
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LED Label LED Activity Status Meaning
Red Blinking SD Card full
Red Solid SD Card issue
3.2.4. Baery Compartment
The lid of the Song Meter Mini 2 holds the recorder's baeries. Depending on the version of the
recorder, it holds either AA baeries or 18650 Lithium-ion baeries.
AA Baery Compartment
The AA baery compartment holds two plastic baery trays. Each tray holds four AA baeries,
and you can power the recorder with four or eight AA baeries in total. If you use only four AA
baeries, all four must be installed in the same tray.
Each tray is equipped with a ribbon. When installing AA baeries, position the ribbon underneath
the baeries. Pulling on the ribbon will then let you easily remove the baeries.
IMPORTANT
When inserting baeries, start near the aached end of each ribbon at the outer
side of each tray and work towards the free end. This will ensure the ribbon has
enough slack to make room for each baery. Without enough slack, the ribbon
may push baeries out of the tray.
If only using four AA baeries, make sure the ribbon aached to the empty
baery tray does not interfere with the seal between the lid and base of the
recorder enclosure.
For information on the dierent types of AA baeries, including Energizer® Ultimate Lithium™,
see Types of AA Baeries (page 76).
NOTE
Best practices for AA baeries:
• Do not mix multiple types of baeries (e.g. combining alkaline with NiMH).
This applies even when using eight AA baeries. All eight baeries must be of
the same type.
Ideally, all baeries should be of the same brand and model. Mixing baeries
with dierent characteristics can produce unpredictable results.
• Do not mixed new or freshly charged baeries with used or uncharged
baeries. A single dead baery will prevent the entire set from functioning.
• Ensure baeries are oriented with the correct positive/negative polarity.
• Remove baeries before storage.
Lithium-ion Baery Compartment
The Lithium-ion baery holder lid holds between one and six Lithium-ion 18650 baeries. You can
install any number of 18650 baeries in any of the slots, and the recorder will work as intended,
Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
13

but using more baeries provides longer run time. See Lithium-Ion Baery Requirements (page
77) for more details on choosing appropriate baeries.
NOTE
Best practices for lithium-ion baeries:
• Do not mix freshly charged baeries with drained baeries.
• Unlike many rechargeable AA baeries, lithium-ion baeries are shipped with
no stored charge. You must charge them before initial use.
• Ensure baeries are oriented with the correct positive/negative polarity.
• Remove baeries before storage.
WARNING
There are strict regulations on shipping and traveling with lithium-ion baeries
in many parts of the world. Consult applicable laws before air travel or when
planning to ship lithium-ion baeries.
3.2.5. SD Card Slot
The Song Meter Mini 2 recorder saves recording files and a summary log to an SD card installed in
the memory card slot.
To insert an SD card, slide it into the slot until it clicks into place. To remove, gently press the card
further into the slot until it clicks again, and let the internal spring mechanism eject the card.
• Only remove the SD card after seing the power switch to OFF and waiting until all Status LEDs
have turned o.
• Use the Song Meter Configurator app to check recording space available on the SD card.
NOTE
Wildlife Acoustics recommends the SanDisk® brand of SD cards for their superior
performance.
NOTE
Be sure the card’s write protection switch is “o.” The Song Meter Mini 2
recorder will not record to a write-protected card.
3.2.6. Right Microphone Connector
This is the connection point for the optional acoustic microphone.
Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
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3.2.7. Function Buon and Function LEDs
The physical controls on the Song Meter Mini 2 allow you to perform four basic functions without
the Song Meter Configurator app.
Available Functions
There are four Function LEDs:
•Diags : This runs an internal diagnostic check. Two files are then wrien to the SD card:
• A diagnostics file with a file name matching the format: [RECORDER
NAME]_[DATE]_[TIME].minidiags. This may be used by Wildlife Acoustics Support to
diagnose technical issues.
• A configuration file with the file name format [RECORDER NAME].miniconfig. This file
contains a copy of the recorder's seings. It can be used to load the same configuration into
another Song Meter Mini 2.
•Load : This loads a configuration file (ending in .miniconfig) and/or firmware file (ending
in .smm), from the SD card to the recorder. If there are both a configuration file and firmware
file on the card, the configuration file will be loaded first, and then the firmware update will be
loaded.
For detailed instructions on installing a firmware file using the recorder's physical buons, see
Loading a Configuration File from an SD Card (page 18).
This function can also be performed using the app. See Load Firmware or a Configuration from
Card (page 35).
NOTE
Once a configuration file or firmware file is successfully loaded from an SD
card, that information is stored on the Song Meter Mini 2's internal memory,
and the file is no longer needed on the SD card.
•Defaults : This restores the default states of all of the recorder's seings except current date
and time.
This function can also be performed using the app. See Restore Recorder To Factory Defaults
(page 35).
Default seings values are shown in Acoustic Seings Screen (page 36).
•Format : This reformats the SD card, reseing it to a "blank slate" and deleting any existing files
from the card.
This function can also be performed using the app. See Format SD Card (page 35).
IMPORTANT
It is important to reformat the SD card prior to each deployment. Reformaing
the card goes beyond just deleting existing data. It resets the structure of the
card and reduces the likelihood of data corruption.
Reformaing can be done using the Song Meter Mini 2 or using the SD Card
Association's ocial, free formaing utility for Windows and Mac.
Performing a Function
To select and perform a function,
1. Tap the FUNCTION buon multiple times.
A green LED will cycle through the four positions to highlight the selected function.
2. When the desired function is highlighted, press and hold the FUNCTION buon for three
seconds.
Song Meter Mini 2 User Guide
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3. When the highlighted LED starts flashing green, let go of the FUNCTION buon.
If all four LEDs flash green three times, the function ran successfully.
If all four LEDs flash red six times, the function was unsuccessful.
3.3. INSTALLING A SECOND MICROPHONE
The Song Meter Mini 2 has a port available for a second, optional microphone, which you can
install yourself. To do so, you'll need to remove the plastic hex bolt that occupies the right-hand
microphone port and install the microphone according to the steps below.
WARNING
The optional acoustic microphone is designed for a one-time installation. It is not
designed to be repeatedly installed and uninstalled. If the microphone is removed
and re-installed multiple times, that could cause the connection wire to break,
and the microphone will fail. Once the microphone is installed, it should only be
removed if it needs to be replaced.
NOTE
You can view a video demonstration of this installation process on our Video
Tutorials page.
1. Open the lid and place the Song Meter Mini 2 on a flat surface.
In the top right corner of the recorder is a removable, plastic bolt threaded through a plastic
nut.
2. Use a 3/4" or adjustable hex wrench to gently loosen the bolt from the nut, then use your
hand to completely unscrew the bolt.
If the recorder is laid flat on its back, the internal hex nut will stay in place. The nut is
necessary to hold the new microphone in place.
3. Thread the wire connector for the second microphone through the hole. Do not connect the
wire to the circuit board yet.
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4. Hand-turn the microphone clockwise to screw it into the internal nut. Make sure the
microphone wires are not caught on anything as you turn the microphone.
Make sure the threads of the microphone align with the threads of the hex nut.
5. When the microphone is finger-tight, tighten the microphone lightly with pliers or a wrench.
Do not over-tighten.
6. Connect the plug at the end of the microphone wires to the jack labeled "Right Mic."
The plug has a key on one face that must align with a slot on the left side of the socket.
7. Route the wires to the right of the SD card to keep them out of the way of the lid and to avoid
electrical noise from the SD card.
When the microphone is correctly installed, the recorder's Status screen will display RIGHT
MICROPHONE: Aached. For info on how to view the recorder's status screen via the Song Meter
Configurator app, see Status Screen (page 25).
IMPORTANT
The front face of the SD card holder is used to keep the baeries in place when
the lid is closed. The microphone wire must not be loose or in front of the SD card
holder. The wire must be tucked into the space to the right of the SD card holder
so that it does not interfere with the baeries as the lid is closed.
3.4. UPGRADING THE RECORDER’S FIRMWARE
1. Download the current version firmware file from our Downloads page.
The firmware file name is formaed as sys-X.Y.smm.
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NOTE
You must have a user account on wildlifeacoustics.com to access our
Downloads page. Only an email address is required to create a user account.
2. Connect an SD card to your computer.
If your computer does not have a built-in SD card slot, use a USB SD card reader or similar
accessory.
3. Copy the sys-X.Y.smm file to the top level of the SD card.
"Top level" means the firmware file must not be inside a folder on the card.
There must be only one firmware file on the card.
4. Eject the card from your computer's operating system before physically removing the card.
5. Insert the SD card into the Song Meter Mini 2's SD card slot.
6. Turn on the recorder.
7. Press the FUNCTION buon twice to highlight the Load function LED.
8. Press and hold the FUNCTION buon, then let go when the Load LED begins blinking.
When the process is complete, all four LEDs will blink green three time, and the recorder will
reboot with the new firmware.
NOTE
If there is some sort of failure and the firmware update operation is not
successful, all four LEDs will blink red six times. If this happens, reformat the
SD card, then repeat the above steps. See Format SD Card (page 35).
3.5. LOADING A CONFIGURATION FILE FROM AN SD CARD
A configuration file can be created in the Song Meter Configurator app or exported from another
Song Meter Mini 2. The Configurator app can share the configuration file (see How To Share A
Saved Configuration File (page 50)). A configuration file can be copied from a computer to an SD
memory card. The configuration file on the SD card can then be loaded into another Song Meter
Mini 2.
.MINICONFIG FILE COMPATIBILITY
The first generation and second generation of a given recorder model can use
the same configuration files. For example, a .miniconfig exported from a Song
Meter Mini 1 can be imported into a Song Meter Mini 2.
.miniconfig files cannot be shared between recorders of dierent models. For
example, a .miniconfig file exported from a Song Meter Mini Bat 2 cannot be
imported into a Song Meter Mini 2.
1. Connect an SD card to your computer.
If your computer does not have a built-in SD card slot, use a USB SD card reader or similar
accessory.
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2. Copy the .miniconfig to the top-level directory of the SD card.
"Top-level directory" means the .miniconfig file must not be inside a folder on the SD card.
There must be only one .miniconfig file on the card.
3. Eject the card from your computer's operating system before physically removing the card.
4. Turn on the recorder.
5. Press the FUNCTION buon twice to highlight the Load function LED.
6. Press and hold the FUNCTION buon, then let go when the Load LED begins blinking.
When the process is complete, all four LEDs will blink green three times to indicate the recorder
has loaded the .miniconfig file.
If there is some sort of failure and the configuration load operation is not successful, all four LEDs
will blink red six times. If this happens, check that the .miniconfig file was exported from a
recorder of the same model and that it is saved to the top level of the SD card.
3.6. EXPORTING CONFIGURATION AND DIAGNOSTIC FILES TO AN
SD CARD FROM THE MAIN PANEL
Using only the buons on the main panel of the Song Meter Mini 2 hardware, it is possible to
export two useful files:
•Configuration File: [RECORDER NAME].miniconfig
This is a file containing all of the recorder's seings. It can be loaded into another recorder
of the same model to duplicate all seings from one recorder to another. This is particularly
useful if you want a large fleet of recorders to all run the same schedule.
See Loading a Configuration File from an SD Card (page 18) for instructions on loading
a .miniconfig file using only the hardware controls, and see Load Firmware or a
Configuration from Card (page 35) to load a .miniconfig file from an SD card using the
Song Meter Configurator app.
.miniconfig files can also be transferred between a recorder and the Song Meter
Configurator app without the use of an SD card. See Configuration Editor Screen (page 31)
and Configuration Library Screen (page 49) for more information.
•Diagnostics File: [RECORDER NAME]_[DATE]_[TIME].minidiags
This is a file containing all of the recorder seings, plus hardware diagnostics information that
can be used by Wildlife Acoustics Support for diagnosing certain kinds of issues. They can be
created manually, as shown below, or automatically when the Song Meter Mini 2 experiences
an unexpected reboot.
NOTE
Diagnostics files that have been generated automatically do not necessarily
indicate a serious issue with the recorder. The most common cause is that the
recorder has run until the baeries are almost entirely drained, to the point
that the recorder loses power in the middle of a recording.
To export a Configuration file and Diagnostics file using only the buons on the Song Meter Mini 2
hardware:
1. Install new or fully charged baeries, and set the ON/OFF switch to ON .
2. Press the FUNCTION buon once.
The Diags LED will be highlighted green, and the three other LEDs will be unlit.
3. Press and hold the FUNCTION buon for three seconds.
4. When the Diags LED starts flashing green, let go of the FUNCTION buon.
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All four LEDs will flash green three times to indicate that the .minidiags and .miniconfig files
have been saved to the SD card.
If all four LEDs flash red six times, it means an error prevented the recorder from saving these
two files. If this happens, check that the SD card has available space and displays no error
messages on the recorder's Status screen (see Status Screen (page 25)).
NOTE
Diagnostics files can be generated and emailed to Wildlife Acoustics Support
from within the Song Meter Configurator app. See Email Diagnostics to Wildlife
Acoustics (page 36).
Configurations Files can be saved from a paired recorder to the app's
Configuration library, then imported to other recorders without using an
SD card. See Configuration Editor Screen (page 31) and How to Import a
Configuration File (page 51).
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