WILDLIFE Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User manual

Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
January 26, 2024

Table of Contents
1. Song Meter Mini Bat 2 Quickstart Guide ............................................................................. 3
2. Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 4
2.1. About the Song Meter Mini Bat 2 ............................................................................. 4
2.2. Changes from the Song Meter Mini Bat to the Song Meter Mini Bat 2 ...................... 4
2.3. Baery Configuration Versions .............................................................................. 7
2.4. Useful Resources ................................................................................................... 7
3. Song Meter Mini Bat 2 Hardware ...................................................................................... 9
3.1. External Features ................................................................................................... 9
3.2. Internal Features .................................................................................................. 13
3.3. Microphones ......................................................................................................... 18
3.4. Update Firmware Using the Physical Controls ..................................................... 20
3.5. Load a Configuration File from an SD Card Using the Hardware Buons ............... 21
3.6. Export Configuration and Diagnostic Files to an SD Card from the Main Panel ..... 22
4. Song Meter Configurator App ......................................................................................... 24
4.1. About the App ....................................................................................................... 24
4.2. Recorders Screen ................................................................................................ 26
4.3. Configuration Editor Screen ................................................................................ 35
4.4. Configuration Library Screen ............................................................................... 61
4.5. App Information Screen ...................................................................................... 69
4.6. Understanding Schedules .................................................................................... 70
5. SD Card Contents ............................................................................................................ 78
5.1. SD Card Organization ............................................................................................ 78
5.2. File Name Conventions ......................................................................................... 78
5.3. Audio Files ............................................................................................................ 78
5.4. Summary File ........................................................................................................ 81
5.5. Diagnostics Files .................................................................................................. 82
6. Analysis Software ........................................................................................................... 84
6.1. Kaleidoscope Pro .................................................................................................. 84
6.2. Third-Party Software ........................................................................................... 86
7. Maintanance ................................................................................................................... 87
7.1. Deployment Checklist ........................................................................................... 87
7.2. Waterproofing ..................................................................................................... 87
7.3. Mounting .............................................................................................................. 87
7.4. Security ............................................................................................................... 88
8. Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................. 89
8.1. Recorder Not Turning On ...................................................................................... 89
8.2. Recorder Not Updating Status ............................................................................. 89
8.3. Unable to Pair App with Recorder ........................................................................ 90
8.4. SD Card Error Messages ....................................................................................... 91
9. Specifications ................................................................................................................. 94
9.1. Physical Specifications .......................................................................................... 94
9.2. Audio and Microphones ........................................................................................ 94
9.3. Baeries .............................................................................................................. 97
9.4. SD Card Compatibility ......................................................................................... 100
10. Warranty and Disclosures ............................................................................................ 102
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
2

1. SONG METER MINI BAT 2 QUICKSTART GUIDE
Out of the box, the Song Meter Mini Bat 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 Bat 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 97).
3. Insert an SD Card into the recorder's SD Card slot.
For additional information regarding SD cards, see SD Card Compatibility (page 100).
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 Bat 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 Bat 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 Bat 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 Bat 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 Bat 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 Bat 2. There is no need to manually save
changes. If the Song Meter Mini Bat 2 is unpaired or powered o, it will
remember any changes made from within the Configuration Editor screen.
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
3

2. INTRODUCTION
2.1. ABOUT THE SONG METER MINI BAT 2
The Wildlife Acoustics Song Meter Mini Bat 2 oers simple, yet innovative tools for detecting and
recording bats. With the addition of the optional acoustic microphone, the Song Meter Mini Bat
2 can also be used to record birds, frogs, and other lower-frequency environmental sounds.
The Song Meter Mini Bat 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 BAT TO THE SONG
METER MINI BAT 2
The Song Meter Mini Bat 2 builds on the first-generation Song Meter Mini Bat 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 Bat will find themselves well at home with the new Song Meter Mini
Bat 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 Bat 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 Bat's enclosure was comprised of a separate base
and lid, the enclosure of the Song Meter Mini Bat 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
Bat is not compatible with the Song Meter Mini Bat 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 without leaking. Note
that installed acoustic stub mics can be damaged by underwater submersion, though they are
protected against rain.
The back of the Song Meter Mini Bat 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 Bat 2
Hardware (page 9).
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
4

2.2.2. Baery Configuration
The original Song Meter Mini Bat 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 Bat 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 7) for more detail.
NOTE
The Song Meter Mini Bat 2 is not compatible with the Lithium-Ion Lid accessory
for the first generation Song Meter Mini Bat.
AA Baeries
The Song Meter Mini Bat 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 Bat 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 Bat 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 Bat 2 Li-ion can be used with any number of 18650 baeries between
one and six. Unlike the first-generation Song Meter Mini Bat'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 Bat's Lithium-Ion Lid used pairs of 18650 baeries
in parallel with other pairs of baeries. The new Song Meter Mini Bat 2 Li-ion
uses individual 18650 baeries in parallel with each other. This means that the
voltage reading on the Song Meter Mini Bat 2Li-ion's Status screen is half that of
the original Song Meter Mini Bat, despite having the same possible deployment
time.
For example, with six fully charged 18650 baeries, a first-generation Song Meter
Mini Bat will display a voltage of 8.4 V, while a Song Meter Mini Bat 2 will display a
voltage of 4.2 V. Both recorders have the same total energy available despite the
voltage dierence.
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
5

2.2.3. New Ultrasonic Microphone
The Song Meter Mini Bat 2 uses a dierent microphone from the original Song Meter Mini Bat.
While the characteristics are generally very similar, it is approximately 10 dB more sensitive in
the ranges 20-50 kHz and 70-105 kHz.
Figure 1. Sensitivity and Noise of the Song Meter Mini Bat 1 and 2 Ultrasonic
Microphones
IMPORTANT
If you intend to record bats in the range of 20-50 kHz, where the ultrasonic
microphone is most sensitive, we recommend reducing the gain seing by 6 to
12 dB compared to any first-generation Song Meter Mini Bat recorders you use in
similar situations. Reducing the gain seing will reduce the likelihood of distorted
recordings of loud bat calls in this frequency range. See Right Channel Gain (page
48) for details on changing this seing.
2.2.4. Configuration and Firmware Files are Cross-Compatible
The Song Meter Mini Bat and Song Meter Mini Bat 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 Bat can be imported into a Song Meter Mini Bat 2, and vice-versa. This provides a
simple way to maintain consistent seings across a mixed fleet of recorders.
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
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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 Bat 2 can be purchased with one of two options for baery power:
• The Song Meter Mini Bat 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 97) for more information.
• The Song Meter Mini Bat 2 Li-ion can run on between one and six 18650 Lithium-ion (Li-ion)
baeries. See Lithium-Ion Baery Requirements (page 98) for details on choosing compatible
baeries.
NOTE
These are two separate versions of the Song Meter Mini Bat 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 Bat 2.
Other than the dierences in baery compatibility, the AA and Li-ion versions of the Song Meter
Mini Bat 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.
For specifications regarding baeries and deployment times, see: Baeries (page 97).
2.4. USEFUL RESOURCES
2.4.1. Where to Find This User Guide
This user guide is published in multiple locations:
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
7

• 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 Bat 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 Bat 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 Bat 2 User Guide
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3. SONG METER MINI BAT 2 HARDWARE
3.1. EXTERNAL FEATURES
Figure 2. Front-Left View
1. The Enclosure Latch snaps into place to keep the two halves of the enclosure sealed.
2. One of two Mounting Loops, which can accommodate bungee cords, rope, or cable locks up
to a diameter of 0.420'' (10.67 mm).
3. The Ultrasonic Microphone is installed flush with the enclosure, protected from water and
animals by a metallic mesh over a water-proof membrane. See Microphones (page 18).
4. The Enclosure Hinge keeps the lid and body of the recorder permanently aached.
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
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Figure 3. Front-Right View
1. A Padlock Loop allows the enclosure to be locked closed. See Padlock Compatibility (page 12)
for padlock size recommendations.
2. One of two Mounting Loops, which can accommodate bungee cords, rope, or cable locks up
to a diameter of 0.420'' (10.67 mm).
3. A Microphone Port can accommodate a second, acoustic microphone. When no second
microphone is installed, the port is occupied by a plastic hex bolt. See Install a Second
Microphone (page 19).
4. The Bar Code Label lists the recorder's Model Name and Serial Number.
5. A water-proof Vent regulates humidity and pressure inside the enclosure.
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Figure 4. Rear View
1. The upper and lower Mounting Tabs can accommodate bolts or screws with a maximum
thread diameter of 3/16′′ (4.6 mm). They can also serve as aachment points for bungee
cords or zip ties.
2. A Tripod Mount fits a 1/4ʺ-20 bolt, the same specification used by many cameras, including
trail cameras.
3.1.1. Durable, Weather-Proof Enclosure
The Song Meter Mini Bat 2 recorder is designed for long-term, outdoor deployment. Made from
durable polycarbonate plastic, it is UV-resistant and weatherproof. The enclosure meets IP67
standards, with the exclusion of Acoustic Microphones. This rating means it is dust-tight and
can withstand temporary submersion in water up to a depth of one meter without leaking. Note
that installed acoustic stub mics can be damaged by underwater submersion, though they are
protected against rain.
A reusable humidity regulation pack (hidden inside the enclosure) and a moisture vent regulate
humidity and pressure inside the enclosure. The vent is protected internally by a membrane that
blocks liquid water while allowing water vapor to exit the enclosure.
3.1.2. Versatile Mounting Options
The enclosure of the Song Meter Mini Bat 2 is equipped with aachment points that support a
wide range of mounting options:
•Mounting Tabs at the top and boom of the enclosure's back feature holes suitable for bolts or
screws up to 3/16′′ (4.6 mm) in diameter. They can also be used for aaching bungee cord hooks
or zip ties, for example.
•Mounting Loops at the upper-left and upper-right of the enclosure are suitable for cable locks,
rope, zip ties, or bungee cords, among other possibilities. The internal diameter of these loops
is 0.420'' (10.67 mm).
• The Tripod Mount on the back of the enclosure fits a 1/4ʺ-20 bolt, enabling compatibility with
many mounting accessories designed for trail cameras.
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
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NOTE
Be aware that not all camera mounts use the same bolt specification. For
example, mounts designed for heavy video cameras may use a 3/8ʺ-16 bolt.
Check the manufacturer's specifications when shopping for a compatible
mount.
IMPORTANT
With any mounting method, be careful not to apply excess force to the enclosure
of the Song Meter Mini Bat 2. If too much force is applied, the enclosure can
flex, opening gaps between the lid and body and compromising the recorder's
waterproofing.
Take extra care when aaching the recorder to young trees. The tree's growth
over the course of a deployment could increase the strain on the enclosure.
3.1.3. Security Options
The enclosure of the Song Meter Mini Bat 2 was designed to support two layers of security:
• A cable lock can be fed through the two Mounting Loops along the top of the recorder to keep it
aached to a tree or structure.
• A padlock can be fed through the Padlock Loop to keep the enclosure latched closed.
Cable Lock Compatibility
The diameter of a cable lock must be narrower than 0.420'' (10.67 mm) to fit through the two
Mounting Loops.
Padlock Compatibility
The internal diameter of the Padlock Loop is 0.268'' (6.81 mm). We recommend a padlock with a
shackle diameter of 1/4'' (6.35 mm). This size does allow some movement of the latch, but not
enough that it compromises the IP67 waterproof rating of the Song Meter Mini Bat 2 enclosure.
WARNING
Do not use a padlock with a shackle thinner than 1/4'' (6.35 mm). A thinner shackle
will allow the latch to be undone partially or completely, allowing water to get in,
or allowing the lid to be fully opened.
Note that damage to any part of the Song Meter Mini Bat 2's plastic enclosure can
compromise the eectiveness of these security features. If your recorder has
been damaged, contact Wildlife Acoustics Support to arrange a repair.
3.1.4. Optional Acoustic Microphone Port
The Song Meter Mini Bat 2 has a port for an optional acoustic microphone. When installed, this
allows the recorder to alternate between recording ultrasound and recording audio in the range
of human hearing.
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
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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 Install a Second Microphone
(page 19).
3.2. INTERNAL FEATURES
Figure 5. Internal Overview
1. The Status LED Key provides a guide for understanding the STATUS LEDs. This table can also
be found under Status LEDs (page 17).
2. The Control Panel is where you'll find physical controls for turning the Song Meter Mini
Bat 2 on, checking its status, initiating pairing, and performing several other functions. See
Figure 6: “Control Panel” for a detailed image of this section.
3. The Baery Compartment holds either eight AA baeries or six 18650 Lithium-ion
baeries, depending on the recorder version. The Li-ion version is shown here. See Baery
Compartment (page 13).
4. The SD Card slot holds a full-size SD card with a capacity up to 2 TB for storing recordings
and other files.
5. The Right Mic port allows you to connect a second, acoustic microphone to the recorder.
See Install a Second Microphone (page 19).
3.2.1. Baery Compartment
The lid of the Song Meter Mini Bat 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.
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
13

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 97).
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,
but using more baeries provides longer run time. See Lithium-Ion Baery Requirements (page
98) for more details on choosing appropriate baeries.
If using fewer than six Lithium-ion baeries, we recommend inserting baeries starting from
the left. Because the plastic cover with the Status LED Key contacts the four left-most baeries
when the enclosure is closed, those four baery trays are the most secure slots. When all six
baery slots are filled, or when up to four baeries are installed in the left-most slots, baeries
are least likely to be shaken out of place by a strong impact.
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
14

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.
3.2.2. SD Card Slot
The Song Meter Mini Bat 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 Bat 2
recorder will not record to a write-protected card.
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
15

Figure 6. Control Panel
1. The ON/OFF switch determines whether the Song Meter Mini Bat 2 is fully active or in a
low-power, idle state. It is safe to set the switch to OFF at any time without risking data loss.
See ON/OFF Switch (page 16).
2. The PAIR/STATUS buon serves two functions:
a. Press and hold the buon to initiate pairing with the Song Meter Configurator app. See
Pair the Recorder with the Song Meter Configurator app (page 32).
b. Press the buon briefly to activate the Bluetooth , Recording , and SD Card LEDs to
indicate the recorder's current status.
3. The FUNCTION/STATUS LEDs serve two purposes:
a. When using the FUNCTION buon, refer to the labels above the LEDs to get feedback on
Function selection and progress. See Function Buon and LEDs (page 17)l.
b. When the Song Meter Mini Bat 2 is powered on, or when the STATUS buon is pressed
briefly, the three left-most LEDs indicate the recorder's Bluetooth , Recording , and SD
Card status (see Status LEDs (page 17)).
This information is also communicated via the Song Meter Configurator app (see Status
Screen (page 28)).
4. The FUNCTION buon can be used to select and initiate four functions (see Function Buon
and LEDs (page 17)).
These functions can also be initiated via the Song Meter Configurator app (see Utilities Menu
(page 38) and Load and Save Configurations from the Configuration Editor Screen (page
37)).
3.2.3. ON/OFF Switch
•ON (up position): Full power is enabled. Schedule is started.
•OFF (down position): The recorder enters a low-power idle state. Schedule is stopped.
When the Song Meter Mini Bat 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.
Song Meter Mini Bat 2 User Guide
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NOTE
When the Song Meter Mini Bat 2 recorder is switched o, it goes through a
routine to end and save any current recording. This can take a few seconds.
3.2.4. 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 (*Triggered)
Green Slow *Armed and waiting for trigger
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
Red Blinking SD Card full
Red Solid SD Card issue
*Song Meter Mini Bat 2 in triggered ultrasonic mode only
3.2.5. Function Buon and LEDs
The physical controls on the Song Meter Mini Bat 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 Bat 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
Load a Configuration File from an SD Card Using the Hardware Buons (page 21).
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This function can also be performed using the app. See Load Firmware or a Configuration from
Card (page 43).
NOTE
Once a configuration file or firmware file is successfully loaded from an
SD card, that information is stored on the Song Meter Mini Bat 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 42).
Default seings values are shown in Ultrasonic Seings Screen (page 43) and Acoustic
Seings Screen (page 47).
•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 42).
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 Bat 2 or using the SD Card
Association's ocial, free formaing utility for Windows and Mac.
Perform 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.
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. MICROPHONES
The Song Meter Mini Bat 2 utilizes a single built-in ultrasonic microphone. The microphone is flush
with the enclosure edge and has a mesh screen to protect against physical damage. An optional
acoustic-range microphone can be purchased and added to the right side of the Song Meter Mini
Bat 2. This allows you to use the same recorder to alternate between ultrasonic recording and
audible-range recording.
NOTE
A single Song Meter Mini Bat 2 cannot record from both the ultrasonic mic and
acoustic mic simultaneously. The schedule must specify a single microphone to be
used for each recording period, see Schedule Editor (page 54).
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3.3.1. Install a Second Microphone
The Song Meter Mini Bat 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 Bat 2 on a flat surface.
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.
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.
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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 28).
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. UPDATE FIRMWARE USING THE PHYSICAL CONTROLS
We regularly publish new firmware versions that improve the functionality of the Song Meter
Mini Bat 2. If your recorder is running an outdated version of the firmware, the Status Screen
(page 28) will display a message alerting you to the new version. We recommend making sure
your recorder is on the latest firmware at the start of each deployment.
The procedure below allows you to update a recorder from a firmware file stored on an SD card
using only the FUNCTION buon and LEDs. You can also initiate a firmware update using the Song
Meter Configurator app (see Load Firmware or a Configuration from Card (page 43)).
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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