YDOC ML 17 Series User manual

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 1
Type ML-x17
Low power 2G/3G/4G data loggers
Title
:
User Manual ML-x17
Date
:
July-2022
Version
:
FW V4.6B4

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Manufacturers of low power instruments page 2
WARNING
THE FOLLOWING OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ARE FOR USE BY QUALIFIED
PERSONNEL ONLY. TO AVOID DAMAGE OR MALFUNCTION, DO NOT PERFORM
ANY OPERATING OTHER THAN THAT CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL. ANY
OPERATOR SHOULD BE SKILLED WITH A TECHNCAL BACKGROUND BEFORE
OPERATING THE DEVICE.
PREFACE
Congratulations!
With your purchase of an YDOC Low Power data logger with mobile network capabilities.
This manual describes the operation and (hardware) installation of the ML-x17 data logger.
The chapter Getting Started briefly describes the data logger, prepares you to install it, and tells you how
to put it into operation.
The Chapter Operating Basics covers basic principles of operation of the data logger. The operating
interface (menu) and the tutorial examples, rapidly help you to understand how your data logger operates.
The Chapter Reference teaches you how to perform specific tasks and provides a complete list of
operating tasks and useful background information.
The Appendices provide a list with all available options, and other useful information.
We recommend reading this manual carefully before installation of the data logger.
Warranty
All YDOC instruments are warranted for 3 years against defective materials and workmanship. Any
questions with respect to the warranty mentioned above should be taken up with your YDOC Distributor.

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Table of Contents
1. Product description.............................................................................................................................. 11
1.1 Models and Editions ................................................................................................................... 12
2Getting started..................................................................................................................................... 14
2.1 Vibration...................................................................................................................................... 14
2.2 Do’s & Don’ts .............................................................................................................................. 14
2.3 Inserting the SIM-card ................................................................................................................ 14
2.4 Power on for the First time.......................................................................................................... 15
2.5 Connect to a PC, tablet or smart phone..................................................................................... 15
3Operating Basics................................................................................................................................. 16
3.1 Configuration menu .................................................................................................................... 16
4Reference............................................................................................................................................ 23
4.1 Principle of Operation ................................................................................................................. 23
4.1.1 Intervals .................................................................................................................................. 23
4.1.1.1 Sample interval............................................................................................................... 23
4.1.1.2 Data logging interval....................................................................................................... 23
4.1.1.3 Send Interval................................................................................................................... 24
4.1.1.4 Example.......................................................................................................................... 24
4.1.2 Common data output settings................................................................................................. 24
4.1.2.1 Send delay...................................................................................................................... 24
4.1.2.2 Output type ..................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.2.3 Data format..................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.2.4 Data filter......................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.2.5 Max payload ................................................................................................................... 25
4.2 Parameters ................................................................................................................................. 25
4.2.1 Name ...................................................................................................................................... 26
4.2.2 Code ....................................................................................................................................... 26
4.2.3 Unit.......................................................................................................................................... 26
4.2.4 Value factor............................................................................................................................. 26
4.2.5 Value offset............................................................................................................................. 26
4.2.6 Decimals................................................................................................................................. 26
4.2.7 Data log................................................................................................................................... 26
4.2.8 Data output ............................................................................................................................. 26
4.2.9 Alarm message....................................................................................................................... 27
4.2.10 Alarm log............................................................................................................................. 27
4.2.11 Alarm output........................................................................................................................ 27
4.2.12 Alarm limits and delays....................................................................................................... 27
4.3 Configuration Menu Settings ...................................................................................................... 28
4.3.1 Date & Time............................................................................................................................ 28
4.3.2 System Information................................................................................................................. 28
4.4 Configuration Setup.................................................................................................................... 29
4.5 General Settings......................................................................................................................... 31
4.5.1 Exit.......................................................................................................................................... 31
4.5.2 System Name ......................................................................................................................... 31
4.5.3 Data log interval...................................................................................................................... 31
4.5.3.1 Normal mode .................................................................................................................. 31
4.5.3.2 Alarm mode..................................................................................................................... 31
4.5.4 Timestamp round down.......................................................................................................... 31
4.5.5 Avoid equal timestamps.......................................................................................................... 31
4.5.6 Continuous Alarm Sampling................................................................................................... 31
4.5.7 Alarm output port .................................................................................................................... 32
4.5.8 Bower supply board................................................................................................................ 32
4.5.9 Battery (protection & lifespan) ................................................................................................ 32
4.5.10 Deployment Date and Time................................................................................................ 32
4.5.11 Daily operating time slot ..................................................................................................... 33
4.5.12 Time zone........................................................................................................................... 33

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4.5.13 Summer time....................................................................................................................... 33
4.6 Modem Settings.......................................................................................................................... 33
4.6.1 Provider Selection................................................................................................................... 33
4.6.2 Technology ............................................................................................................................. 34
4.6.3 APN settings........................................................................................................................... 34
4.6.4 Network signal test ................................................................................................................. 34
4.6.5 APN login test......................................................................................................................... 35
4.7 NTP time update......................................................................................................................... 35
4.7.1 Time Update ........................................................................................................................... 35
4.7.2 Update interval........................................................................................................................ 35
4.7.3 Server ..................................................................................................................................... 35
4.7.4 NTP Port................................................................................................................................. 35
4.7.5 Time update test..................................................................................................................... 35
4.8 Alarm messages......................................................................................................................... 35
4.8.1 System Alarm ......................................................................................................................... 35
4.8.2 Data Alarm.............................................................................................................................. 35
4.9 Option boards ............................................................................................................................. 36
4.9.1 ML-OI-AD-10V/20MA/80MV/2000MV (analog inputs)............................................................ 36
4.9.1.1 Calibration....................................................................................................................... 36
4.9.1.2 Zero-calibration............................................................................................................... 36
4.9.2 ML-OI-AD-PT1000.................................................................................................................. 37
4.9.2.1 Calibration....................................................................................................................... 37
4.9.3 ML-OI-AX (Auxiliary inputs).................................................................................................... 37
4.9.4 ML-OO (Auxiliary outputs)...................................................................................................... 37
4.10 Internal Sensors.......................................................................................................................... 37
4.10.1 Name .................................................................................................................................. 37
4.10.2 Sample interval................................................................................................................... 37
4.10.3 Battery Capacity ................................................................................................................. 37
4.10.4 Battery Replaced ................................................................................................................ 38
4.10.5 Rest Capacity ..................................................................................................................... 38
4.10.6 Rest power.......................................................................................................................... 38
4.10.7 Processor Temperature...................................................................................................... 38
4.10.8 Average Voltage ................................................................................................................. 38
4.10.9 Max Voltage........................................................................................................................ 38
4.10.10 Min Voltage......................................................................................................................... 38
4.10.11 Average, Max, Min current.................................................................................................. 38
4.10.12 Operating cycle................................................................................................................... 38
4.10.13 Free disk space .................................................................................................................. 38
4.11 Analog inputs.............................................................................................................................. 39
4.11.1 Sensor power switch........................................................................................................... 39
4.11.2 Sample interval................................................................................................................... 39
4.11.3 Port mode ......................................................................................................................... 39
4.11.4 Parameter settings.............................................................................................................. 39
4.11.5 Parameter value at (min & max range)............................................................................... 39
4.11.6 Determine linear conversion function (2 calibration points)................................................ 39
4.11.7 Determine linear offset only (1 calibration point)................................................................ 39
4.12 Digital inputs –Pulse counter..................................................................................................... 40
4.12.1 Sample interval................................................................................................................... 41
4.12.2 Port mode ........................................................................................................................... 41
4.12.2.1 Pull up......................................................................................................................... 41
4.12.2.2 Pull down .................................................................................................................... 41
4.12.3 Register mode .................................................................................................................... 41
4.12.4 Anti-bounce filter................................................................................................................. 41
4.12.5 Units per pulse, or pulses per unit...................................................................................... 41
4.12.6 Register value..................................................................................................................... 41
4.12.7 Register Reset.................................................................................................................... 41
4.12.8 Log each counter change................................................................................................... 42

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4.12.9 Counter............................................................................................................................... 42
4.12.10 Quantity............................................................................................................................... 42
4.12.11 Mean-, Max- and Min Rate................................................................................................. 42
4.12.12 Activity period ..................................................................................................................... 42
4.13 Digital inputs - Alarm trigger ....................................................................................................... 42
4.13.1 Trigger delay....................................................................................................................... 43
4.13.2 Register value..................................................................................................................... 43
4.14 Digital inputs –Action trigger...................................................................................................... 43
4.14.1 Trigger mode ...................................................................................................................... 43
4.14.2 Trigger on............................................................................................................................ 43
4.15 Digital inputs - State input / On-time meter................................................................................. 43
4.15.1 Total On-time...................................................................................................................... 44
4.15.2 Register value..................................................................................................................... 44
4.15.3 Register reset ..................................................................................................................... 44
4.15.4 Interval On-time .................................................................................................................. 44
4.15.5 Input state........................................................................................................................... 44
4.16 Network Signal Sensor............................................................................................................... 44
4.16.1 Independent data log.......................................................................................................... 45
4.16.2 Signal bars.......................................................................................................................... 45
4.16.3 Signal dB/%/indication/bit error rate ................................................................................... 45
4.17 Aggregation Channels................................................................................................................ 46
4.17.1.1 Average, minimum, maximum, gust, standard deviation & change .......................... 47
4.17.1.2 Percentiles.................................................................................................................. 47
4.18 Calculation Channels.................................................................................................................. 47
4.18.1 Syntax................................................................................................................................. 49
4.18.2 Functions ............................................................................................................................ 49
4.18.3 Example 1........................................................................................................................... 49
4.18.4 Example 2........................................................................................................................... 49
4.18.5 Supported mathematical functions with one argument: ..................................................... 50
4.18.5.1 abs(x).......................................................................................................................... 50
4.18.5.2 sqrt(x).......................................................................................................................... 50
4.18.5.3 ln(x)............................................................................................................................. 50
4.18.5.4 exp(x).......................................................................................................................... 50
4.18.5.5 log(x)........................................................................................................................... 50
4.18.5.6 sin(radians)................................................................................................................. 50
4.18.5.7 cos(radians)................................................................................................................ 50
4.18.5.8 tan(radians)................................................................................................................. 50
4.18.5.9 asin(x)......................................................................................................................... 50
4.18.5.10 acos(x) ........................................................................................................................ 50
4.18.5.11 atan(x)......................................................................................................................... 50
4.18.5.12 torad(degrees) ............................................................................................................ 51
4.18.5.13 todeg(radians)............................................................................................................. 51
4.18.5.14 floor(x)......................................................................................................................... 51
4.18.5.15 ceil(x) .......................................................................................................................... 51
4.18.5.16 round(x)....................................................................................................................... 51
4.18.6 Supported mathematical functions with multiple arguments: ............................................. 51
4.18.6.1 atan2(x;y).................................................................................................................... 51
4.18.6.2 mod(x;y)...................................................................................................................... 51
4.18.6.3 pow(x;y) ...................................................................................................................... 51
4.18.6.4 clip(x;min;max)............................................................................................................ 51
4.18.7 Supported comparisons with 2 arguments: ........................................................................ 51
4.18.7.1 lt(x;y)........................................................................................................................... 51
4.18.7.2 le(x;y).......................................................................................................................... 51
4.18.7.3 gt(x;y).......................................................................................................................... 51
4.18.7.4 ge(x;y)......................................................................................................................... 51
4.18.8 Supported comparisons with 4 arguments: ........................................................................ 52
4.18.8.1 eq(x;y;q;p)................................................................................................................... 52

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4.18.8.2 lt(x;y;q;p)..................................................................................................................... 52
4.18.8.3 le(x;y;q;p).................................................................................................................... 52
4.18.8.4 gt(x;y;q;p).................................................................................................................... 52
4.18.8.5 ge(x;y;q;p)................................................................................................................... 52
4.18.9 Various supportive functions:.............................................................................................. 52
4.18.9.1 pi ................................................................................................................................. 52
4.18.9.2 time ............................................................................................................................. 52
4.19 Serial Port................................................................................................................................... 53
4.19.1 RS232................................................................................................................................. 53
4.19.2 Generic Modbus ................................................................................................................. 53
4.19.2.1 Port Settings ............................................................................................................... 53
4.19.2.2 Protocol type............................................................................................................... 53
4.19.2.3 Register type............................................................................................................... 54
4.19.2.4 Register Start address................................................................................................ 54
4.19.2.5 Data Type ................................................................................................................... 54
4.19.2.6 Parameters ................................................................................................................. 54
4.19.2.7 Timing......................................................................................................................... 54
4.19.2.8 Measurement commands ........................................................................................... 55
4.19.2.9 Start maintenance command...................................................................................... 55
4.19.2.10 Maintenance interval................................................................................................... 55
4.19.2.11 Maintenance ready status........................................................................................... 55
4.19.2.12 Maintenance ready after............................................................................................. 55
4.19.2.13 Start measurement command .................................................................................... 55
4.19.2.14 Measurement ready status ......................................................................................... 55
4.19.2.15 Measurement ready after............................................................................................ 55
4.19.3 Generic ASCII..................................................................................................................... 56
4.19.3.1 Log raw data String..................................................................................................... 56
4.19.3.2 Decimal symbol........................................................................................................... 56
4.19.3.3 Separator Character ................................................................................................... 56
4.19.3.4 Start/Stop character.................................................................................................... 56
4.19.3.5 Output request............................................................................................................ 56
4.19.3.6 Parameters ................................................................................................................. 57
4.19.3.7 Sentence filter............................................................................................................. 57
4.19.3.8 Field position............................................................................................................... 57
4.19.3.9 Field type .................................................................................................................... 57
4.19.3.10 Example:..................................................................................................................... 57
4.19.4 Generic NMEA.................................................................................................................... 57
4.19.4.1 GPS ............................................................................................................................ 58
4.19.5 RS485................................................................................................................................. 58
4.19.6 SDI-12................................................................................................................................. 58
4.19.6.1 Measurement command............................................................................................. 59
4.19.6.2 Parameters ................................................................................................................. 59
4.19.7 Serial port tunnel................................................................................................................. 60
4.19.7.1 Port settings................................................................................................................ 60
4.19.7.2 Sensor power.............................................................................................................. 60
4.20 Accessory port............................................................................................................................ 61
4.20.1 ASCII output ....................................................................................................................... 61
4.20.1.1 Send interval............................................................................................................... 61
4.20.2 Radio output ....................................................................................................................... 61
4.20.2.1 Send interval............................................................................................................... 62
4.20.2.2 Send delay.................................................................................................................. 62
4.20.2.3 Power down delay ...................................................................................................... 62
4.20.3 Iridium Satellite ................................................................................................................... 63
4.20.3.1 Iridium SBD Service.................................................................................................... 63
4.20.3.2 Settings menu............................................................................................................. 64
4.20.3.3 Send interval............................................................................................................... 64
4.20.3.4 Data transpond ........................................................................................................... 64

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4.20.3.5 Backup mode.............................................................................................................. 64
4.20.3.6 Message format.......................................................................................................... 64
4.20.4 Swarm Satellite................................................................................................................... 65
4.20.4.1 Send interval............................................................................................................... 65
4.20.4.2 Data transpond ........................................................................................................... 66
4.20.4.3 Message format.......................................................................................................... 66
4.20.4.4 Backup mode.............................................................................................................. 66
4.20.4.5 Swarm time update..................................................................................................... 66
4.20.4.6 RSSI............................................................................................................................ 66
4.20.5 GPS .................................................................................................................................... 67
4.20.5.1 Minimum satellites to use ........................................................................................... 67
4.20.5.2 Time to fix ................................................................................................................... 67
4.20.5.3 Position drift alarming ................................................................................................. 67
4.20.5.4 GPS time update ........................................................................................................ 68
4.20.5.4.1 Calculate alarm limits on deployment....................................................................... 68
4.20.5.4.2 Latitude/Longitude hi/lo alarm drift ........................................................................... 68
4.20.5.5 Satellites ..................................................................................................................... 68
4.20.5.6 Latitude / Longitude / Altitude..................................................................................... 68
4.20.5.7 GPS Quality................................................................................................................ 68
4.20.6 Camera............................................................................................................................... 69
4.20.6.1 Daily operating time slot ............................................................................................. 69
4.20.7 Display................................................................................................................................ 70
4.20.7.1 Power down delay ...................................................................................................... 70
4.20.7.2 Order of parameters ................................................................................................... 71
4.20.1 Accessory port tunnel ......................................................................................................... 72
4.20.1.1 Port settings................................................................................................................ 72
4.20.1.2 Sensor power.............................................................................................................. 72
4.21 Modem output - Email................................................................................................................. 73
4.21.1 Server ................................................................................................................................. 73
4.21.2 SMTP port........................................................................................................................... 73
4.21.3 Security............................................................................................................................... 73
4.21.4 Originator address .............................................................................................................. 73
4.21.5 Destination address............................................................................................................ 73
4.21.6 Remote configuration.......................................................................................................... 73
4.22 Modem Output - FTP.................................................................................................................. 74
4.22.1 Server ................................................................................................................................. 74
4.22.2 Port ..................................................................................................................................... 74
4.22.3 FTP mode........................................................................................................................... 74
4.22.4 Security............................................................................................................................... 74
4.22.5 Directory.............................................................................................................................. 74
4.22.6 File name............................................................................................................................ 74
4.22.7 Verification.......................................................................................................................... 75
4.22.8 Input parameters................................................................................................................. 75
4.22.9 Remote configuration and firmware upgrade ..................................................................... 75
4.22.10 Remote access................................................................................................................... 76
4.23 Modem Output - HTTP .............................................................................................................. 77
4.23.1 Server ................................................................................................................................. 77
4.23.2 TCP port.............................................................................................................................. 77
4.23.3 Security............................................................................................................................... 77
4.23.4 Data format......................................................................................................................... 77
4.23.5 Remote access................................................................................................................... 78
4.24 Modem Output –HTTP Azure-IoT.............................................................................................. 79
4.24.1 Server ................................................................................................................................. 79
4.24.2 Device ID ............................................................................................................................ 79
4.24.3 Device Key.......................................................................................................................... 79
4.25 Data Output - MQTT................................................................................................................... 80
4.25.1 Server ................................................................................................................................. 80

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4.25.2 Port ..................................................................................................................................... 80
4.25.3 Security............................................................................................................................... 80
4.25.4 Root topic............................................................................................................................ 80
4.25.5 Client ID.............................................................................................................................. 81
4.25.6 Clean Session..................................................................................................................... 81
4.25.7 Data format......................................................................................................................... 81
4.25.8 Max Payload....................................................................................................................... 81
4.25.9 Input Parameters ................................................................................................................ 81
4.25.10 Remote configuration and firmware upgrade ..................................................................... 82
4.25.11 Remote access................................................................................................................... 83
4.25.12 COM-Tunnel ....................................................................................................................... 84
4.25.12.1 Topics ......................................................................................................................... 84
4.25.12.2 Limits........................................................................................................................... 84
4.26 Data Output - TCP...................................................................................................................... 85
4.26.1 Server ................................................................................................................................. 85
4.26.2 Port ..................................................................................................................................... 85
4.26.3 Security............................................................................................................................... 85
4.27 SMS output................................................................................................................................. 86
4.27.1 Phone number .................................................................................................................... 86
4.27.2 Data send............................................................................................................................ 86
4.27.3 Data format......................................................................................................................... 86
4.27.4 Remote configuration.......................................................................................................... 86
4.28 Data Output - Satellite ................................................................................................................ 86
4.29 Parameter overview.................................................................................................................... 87
4.29.1 Parameter list...................................................................................................................... 87
4.29.2 Parameter order.................................................................................................................. 87
4.29.3 Measurement list ................................................................................................................ 88
4.29.4 Output list............................................................................................................................ 88
4.29.5 Alarm list............................................................................................................................. 89
4.29.6 Alarm limits ......................................................................................................................... 89
4.30 Maintenance Menu ..................................................................................................................... 90
4.30.1 Field Testing ....................................................................................................................... 90
4.30.1.1 Verify Analog inputs.................................................................................................... 90
4.30.1.2 Digital input test .......................................................................................................... 90
4.30.1.3 SD card test................................................................................................................ 91
4.30.1.4 Battery test.................................................................................................................. 91
4.30.1.5 Comport redirect......................................................................................................... 91
4.30.1.6 Data Download ........................................................................................................... 92
4.30.1.7 Format SD Card.......................................................................................................... 92
4.30.1.8 Configuration Down/upload ........................................................................................ 92
4.30.1.9 Firmware Upgrade...................................................................................................... 93
4.30.1.10 Modem Maintenance .................................................................................................. 93
4.30.1.11 Bootloader Menu ........................................................................................................ 93
4.31 Users & rights ............................................................................................................................. 93
4.31.1 Administrator....................................................................................................................... 93
4.31.2 Operator.............................................................................................................................. 93
4.32 SDI-12......................................................................................................................................... 94
4.32.1 SDI-12 Hardware................................................................................................................ 94
4.32.2 SDI-12 Wiring ..................................................................................................................... 94
4.32.3 SDI-12 Baud Rate and Frame Format................................................................................ 94
4.33 RS232......................................................................................................................................... 95
4.34 RS485......................................................................................................................................... 95
4.35 Analog Inputs (0/4..20mA).......................................................................................................... 97
4.35.1 Loop Powered Devices....................................................................................................... 97
4.35.2 Analog Inputs (0 .. 10 V)..................................................................................................... 97
4.36 Analog Differential Inputs............................................................................................................ 97
4.36.1 Differential input ports theory of operation.......................................................................... 97

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4.36.2 Common mode noise rejection........................................................................................... 97
4.36.3 Using Load Cells................................................................................................................. 98
4.36.4 Bridge of Wheatstone ......................................................................................................... 98
4.37 Potentiometer input..................................................................................................................... 98
4.38 Digital inputs ............................................................................................................................. 100
4.38.1 Pull up type....................................................................................................................... 100
4.38.2 Pull down type .................................................................................................................. 100
4.38.3 Electrical specifications Digital inputs............................................................................... 100
4.39Alarming.................................................................................................................................... 101
4.39.1 Alarming - principal of operation....................................................................................... 101
4.39.2 Advanced Alarming........................................................................................................... 103
4.40 Firmware Upgrade.................................................................................................................... 104
4.40.1 When to use Firmware upgrades...................................................................................... 104
4.40.2 Firmware upgrade procedure ........................................................................................... 104
4.40.3 Firmware upgrade over the air ......................................................................................... 104
4.40.4 Firmware Driver limitations............................................................................................... 104
4.40.5 Power Switch Limitations.................................................................................................. 105
4.40.6 Modem Firmware Upgrade............................................................................................... 105
4.41 SD-card..................................................................................................................................... 105
4.41.1 Inserting an SD-card......................................................................................................... 105
4.42 Native TXT Data Format........................................................................................................... 106
4.42.1.1 Header:..................................................................................................................... 106
4.42.1.2 Parameter Code: ...................................................................................................... 106
4.42.1.3 Parameter Name: ..................................................................................................... 106
4.42.1.4 Parameter Unit:......................................................................................................... 106
4.42.2 D-Records......................................................................................................................... 107
4.42.2.1 Parameter Code: ...................................................................................................... 107
4.42.2.2 Parameter value: ...................................................................................................... 107
4.42.3 System records................................................................................................................. 107
4.42.4 Data Modifiers................................................................................................................... 108
4.43 JSON Data Format ................................................................................................................... 109
4.44 Compacted Data Format .......................................................................................................... 110
4.44.1 Records............................................................................................................................. 111
4.44.1.1 First byte of record.................................................................................................... 111
4.44.1.2 Number-bytes ........................................................................................................... 111
4.44.1.3 Time-record............................................................................................................... 112
4.44.1.4 Value-record ............................................................................................................. 112
4.45 Sparkplug-B Data format.......................................................................................................... 113
4.45.1 Configuring the MQTT-driver............................................................................................ 113
4.45.1.1 Root topic.................................................................................................................. 113
4.45.1.2 Name of Group ......................................................................................................... 113
4.45.2 Data output ....................................................................................................................... 114
4.45.3 Metrics .............................................................................................................................. 114
4.45.3.1 Name of Metric.......................................................................................................... 114
4.45.4 Datatype............................................................................................................................ 115
4.45.5 Message examples........................................................................................................... 115
4.45.5.1 NBIRTH..................................................................................................................... 115
4.45.5.2 NDEATH................................................................................................................... 116
4.45.5.3 NDATA...................................................................................................................... 116
4.46 Configuration snippets.............................................................................................................. 117
4.46.1 Payload format.................................................................................................................. 117
4.46.1.1 Global system Settings............................................................................................. 117
4.46.1.2 Driver Settings .......................................................................................................... 118
4.46.1.3 Parameter Settings................................................................................................... 118
4.46.2 Payload example .............................................................................................................. 119
4.47 Input-drivers.............................................................................................................................. 120
4.47.1 Analog sensors................................................................................................................. 120

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4.47.2 Digital Pulse Sensor ......................................................................................................... 120
4.47.2.1 Example configuration Rain Measurement............................................................... 120
4.47.2.2 Counter..................................................................................................................... 122
4.47.2.3 Quantity..................................................................................................................... 122
4.47.2.4 Rate .......................................................................................................................... 122
4.48 Power supply ............................................................................................................................ 123
4.48.1 Internal RTC backup battery............................................................................................. 123
4.48.2 Power consumption & Battery Life ................................................................................... 123
5Pin configuration................................................................................................................................ 124
5.1 Pin descriptions ........................................................................................................................ 125
5.1.1 Analog Inputs........................................................................................................................ 125
5.1.1.1 0/4..20mA inputs........................................................................................................... 125
5.1.1.2 0…10V inputs ............................................................................................................... 125
5.1.1.3 Potentiometer input....................................................................................................... 125
5.1.2 RS485 A & B......................................................................................................................... 125
5.1.3 Power Switch........................................................................................................................ 125
5.1.4 VBAT + ................................................................................................................................. 125
5.1.5 RS232 RX & TX.................................................................................................................... 125
5.1.6 SDI-12 Hi .............................................................................................................................. 125
5.1.7 Digital inputs ......................................................................................................................... 125
5.1.8 +3V6 ..................................................................................................................................... 126
5.1.9 Antenna placement and field strength.................................................................................. 126
6Maintenance and Repair ................................................................................................................... 127
6.1 RTC Lithium Battery replacement ............................................................................................ 127
6.2 Recalibration............................................................................................................................. 127
6.3 XRAY........................................................................................................................................ 127
7Safety ................................................................................................................................................ 128
7.1 Power supply ............................................................................................................................ 128
7.2 ESD........................................................................................................................................... 128
8Environment and disposal................................................................................................................. 128
9Transport and Storage ...................................................................................................................... 128
10 Appendix............................................................................................................................................ 129
10.1 Specifications............................................................................................................................ 129
10.2 CE Declarations of Conformity ................................................................................................. 130
10.3 Open Collector output............................................................................................................... 131
10.3.1.1.1 Using a relay to drive an external load................................................................... 131
10.4 Trouble shooting....................................................................................................................... 132
10.5 System messages .................................................................................................................... 133

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 11
1. Product description
The data logger is designed to retrieve, and store data from various sensors. This data is logged onto the
embedded / removable SD-card. Also, the stored data can be send from the data logger to any remote
computer you like. To use this feature, you need a valid SIM-card. Contact your local telecommunications
provider for more information on the SIM card you will need. The unit accepts various power sources,
selectable by the different version types. The user should connect his sensor(s) of preference to the
connector board of the device. Captured data can be stored, send, visualized and manipulated in many
ways.
The data logger is a small, ultra-low power, high-end data logger with built-in 2G/3G/4G cellular-modem.
This small data logger, is further provided with an internal temperature sensor, 8 or 16 GB micro SD-card
and an SIM card slot. The logger can be powered by an internal 3.6 Volt Lithium battery that will last for
years when the logger is configured in a low-power mode.
Depending on model and edition a data logger can acquire physical signals by current loop inputs, voltage
inputs, potentiometer input and digital inputs. They can also be provided with RS232/RS485/SDI-12 port to
capture serial data (ASCII, MODBUS-RTU/ASCII, NMEA-0183, SDI-12) or to connect an accessory
(Camera, Display, GPS, Satellite modem). More or special inputs/outputs can be added by means of
internal stackable option boards/converters.
External sensors can be powered by the data logger itself, to prevent them to consume power while the
data logger is a sleep. The excitation voltage is switched off during sleep as well.
Key features:
- A maximum sample rate of 4 Hz,
- Recording buffer up to 4 GB,
- Analog inputs (Except DS editions),
- Serial port(s) (Except AD editions),
- Digital input(s)
- Digital output
- Internal micro SD-card with standard FAT-32 File system for easy use with a PC,
- Easy configuration by menu items of embedded terminal application,
- Can be operated from Windows or Android app.
- Low power / long Battery life (see specification sheet),
- Embedded 2G/3G/4G modem for remote operation,
- Alarming by SMS, e-Mail or MQTT
- Log data transfer by HTTP(S), e-Mail, FTP(S), secure TCP, MQTT or SMS
- Camera picture transfer by HTTP(S), e-Mail, FTP(S), secure TCP or MQTT
- Remote FW-upgrade & Configuration update by HTTP(S), secure TCP or MQTT
- Internal voltage convertor for supplying 12 VDC power to the connected sensor(s),
- Firmware upgrade over the air for adding new features to your device.
- Remote configuration over the air, for adjusting your configuration from remote.

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 12
1.1 Models and Editions
The ML-x17 data logger is a small, ultra-low power, cost effective data logger with built-in 2G/3G/4G
cellular modem available for the EMEA, APAC and NA regions. This small data logger, is the same as
mlx-15, with the addition of an option port for expansion of possibilities.
The data logger can acquire physical signals by 2 current loop inputs, 3 voltage inputs (1 potentiometer
input) and 3 digital inputs. The data logger is provided with one serial port to capture measurements from
ASCII, MODBUS, NMEA or SDI-12 compatible sensors. External sensors can be powered by the data
logger itself, to prevent them to consume power while the data logger is a sleep. Up to 8 mathematical
channels are available to calculate meaningful engineering values derived from sensor input values (e.g.
a polynomial to calculate a flow from a stream level).
SKU Table ML-x17
SKU format:
ML-x17y-z (x=Modem, y=Edition, z=Power supply)
Modem
Description
ML-217y-z
With built in 2G cellular modem (Quad band GPRS)
ML-317y-z
With built in global 3G modem (Penta band & Quad band GPRS fallback)
ML-417y-z
With built in global 4G/5G modem (LTE-M / NB-IoT)
Edition
Description
Remarks
ML-x17TFT-z
With 5 analog & 3 digital inputs, serial port & TFT-display cover on accessory port.
ML-x17ADS-z
With 5 analog & 3 digital inputs, serial & accessory port.
ML-x17AD-z
With 5 analog & 3 digital inputs (no serial port, no accessory port).
ML-x17DS-z
With 3 digital inputs & serial port (no analog inputs, no accessory port).
Power supply
Description
ML-x17y-LI
Powered from a single 3.6V DC SAFT LSH20 or equivalent D-size lithium battery.
ML-x17y-3LI
Powered from 3x 3.6V DC SAFT LSH20 or equivalent D-size lithium batteries.
ML-x17y-DC
Powered from external 8..28V DC source.
ML-x17y-DC-LI
Powered from external 8..28V DC source or 3.6V DC SAFT LSH20 lithium battery.
ML-x17y-DC-NM
With integrated 3 x AA NiMH holder & charger for external 8..28V DC source.
ML-x17y-PV
With integrated 1Wp solar panel and 1x 26650 3.2V LiFePO4 holder &charger.
ML-x17y-LFP
With 4x 18650 3.2V LiFePO4 holder & charger for 12V (21VOC) ext. solar panels.
ML-x17y-SLA
With integrated 12V battery charger for 12V (21VOC) external solar panels.
Example: ML-417ADS-PV is a data logger with built in global LTE-m/NB-IoT modem with PV-cover,
digital & analog inputs, a serial and accessory port.
The data logger will be supplied without pre-mounted cable glands, giving the user the freedom to choose
the number and size of the glands them self to avoid unnecessary points of risk for moisture penetration.
We recommend removing the PCB before drilling.

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 13
1) Mounting bus for option board
2) Main Fuse (2A Fast Acting)
3) 3V6 Power Supply Connector
4) SIM(2FF) & Micro SD-card Holder
5) Accessory port (TFT, CAM, etc.)
6) Analog input port
7) RS232/RS485/SDI-12 Port
8) Digital input port
9) 12 V Sensor Power Output & Alarm Output connector
10) Hexaband antenna for 2G/3G/4G communications
11) U.FL Connector for external antenna
12) Internal/External antenna selection jumper
13) RTC clock Battery
14) Option port
15) USB port
16) Connector for optional external IP67 USB connector
1a
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
1b
15
16

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 14
2Getting started
2.1 Vibration
At all times the data logger must be protected against vibrations. These vibrations can harm the
performance of the data logger. Especially the real-time clock can be harmed by long-lasting vibrations
2.2 Do’s & Don’ts
Do’s
- Always provide a dry and clean environment when you open the case of a data logger,
- When you open the case, use a Philips screwdriver of 2mm for loosening the screws,
- Protect the data logger against mechanical stress and vibrations
Don’ts
- Don’t try to use a plain screwdriver for loosening the screws, you will damage the screws,
- Avoid touching the PCB directly.
2.3 Inserting the SIM-card
The wireless data functions will only work when an activated SIM, with a valid subscription is placed in the
data logger. In the menu the configuration and network settings must also match to those supplied by the
SIM card provider. The pin code of the SIM card must be removed prior to insertion in the data logger. To
prevent problems with the SIM card it can be inserted in a mobile phone or 2G/3G data modem. In a Mobile
phone or 2G/3G modem the 2G/3G, SMS and GSM data functionality can be tested.
When you have obtained a 2FF SIM-card, you can insert it into the SIM-card-holder.
Beware:
•Remove the PIN code (this can be done with the use of a mobile phone),
•Check the settings of your mobile provider,
•Check the settings for communicating via HTTP, FTP, E-mail or TCP,
•Check the capability of data communication for your service-provider,
•Make sure the SIM-card is installed correctly, and not upside down.
The Oblique side of the card should be visible. (see picture).
•Installation of the SIM card needs to be done in a clean and dry
environment.
•Avoid contact with the electronic parts around the SIM card.
•Remove power before changing or inserting a SIM card.
•The same applies to the SD-card.

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 15
ESD Attention: Although the data logger is designed to withstand certain amounts of electrostatic
discharge, it is advised to avoid discharged risks. Especially when the housing is open and the electronic
parts are exposed. Please do not touch the PCB if you don’t have to. It is strongly recommended to use an
earthed wrist-band when touching the PCB.
The data logger must be handled with care and never exposed to ESD discharges. When installing a sensor
or other wiring, make sure there is no power on both devices. ESD discharges could cause invisible
damage. This endangers long term stability and proper operation.
2.4 Power on for the First time
In the factory the data logger is programmed with the necessary system information. This information is
viewable in the menu. The data logger is ready to use out of the box if the preparations are checked.
•SIM card is inserted,
•SD-card is inserted,
•Internal battery, or mains power is connected
•Antenna is connected.
Next, connect your sensors, please consult your sensor’s manual for wiring.
2.5 Connect to a PC, tablet or smart phone
OS compatibility: The data logger can be connected by USB2.0 to a Windows PC or Android tablet or
smart phone. ydocTerminal for Windows can be downloaded from www.ydoc.biz, ydocTerminal for
Android can be downloaded from the Android Playstore.

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 16
3Operating Basics
3.1 Configuration menu
The data logger can be configured by means of terminal emulation software like ‘hyper terminal’ or our own
terminal emulation software ‘YDOC-terminal’, which can be downloaded from www.ydoc.biz or
ydocTerminal for Android from the ‘Google PlayStore’.
The menu is comprehensive and easy to use. For each different sensor the same approach is used. Below,
one example is given to fully understand the operation of the menu. The example takes you through a
configuration from start to final stage. Only a few menu-items are used in this example, for a complete
overview of all menu-items, see chapter Reference. All menu items use the same approach which is
explained in this example. This example explains only the configuration of the firmware, NOT the wiring.
For wiring information see the reference.
Example:
Let’s Configure an ML-317ADS for operation with the following:
- Analog pressure transmitter 4 .. 20mA
- CT2X conductivity / temperature sensor (INW)
- FTP data output
- EMAIL data output
Connect the logger to a free USB port on your computer and open with a terminal emulator the virtual
COM-port (e.g. COM7) as assigned by Windows to the logger. The first time Windows will ask (if not
already installed) for an USB-driver, which can be installed by installing ‘YDOC-Terminal’.
When the terminal emulator has opened the COM-port, press:
<Ctrl>A<Shift>M<Ctrl>D to enter the configuration menu.
You’ll see a screen similar to this:
Running
ML-A417ADS Logger Version 4.0 Build 3 (108173612)
First we like to give this data
logger appropriate
identification codes.
So, press 3 <Configuration
Setup>
(To avoid
unauthorized local
access we
recommend to specify a
local password).
Configuration Menu ML-317ADS Logger Version 4.0
[0] Run
[1] Date & time >> 2020/03/13 13:12:14
[2] System information >> 108173612
[3] Configuration setup >>
[4] Parameter overview >> 6
[5] Maintenance
[6] Users & rights
>

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 17
You’ll see this screen:
First Rename your Device by
Selecting option 1
(General Settings)
After selecting “General
Settings” the screen will look like this:
1. Press 1 and enter the name of your preference
2. Choose your data logging interval. We used 10 minutes, and NO Alarming.
3. Enter the deployment date & time. This can be a time in the future when the logger should start
working. We will use the actual date & time to start right away.
4. Exit and save changes.
5. Now, the overall configuration is setup and we proceed with the configuration of the sensors and data
output.
General settings
[0] Exit
[1] System name >> YDOC
[2] Data log interval >> 00:10:00
[3] Timestamp round down >> 00:01:00
[-] Avoid equal timestamps >> Off
[5] Continuous alarm sampling >> Off
[6] Direct data output on data alarm >> Off
[7] Alarm output port >> Disabled
[8] Battery (protection & lifespan) >> Rechargeable NiMH
[9] Permanent SD storage >> Data & Diagnostics
[A] Deployment start date and time >> 2020/03/13 12:00:00
[B] Deployment end date time >> 2020/06/01 00:00:00
[C] Daily operating time slot >> 24 hour
[D] Daily schedule time shift >> Not used
[E] Time zone >> 0
[F] Summer time (daylight saving) >> Not used
>
Configuration setup
[0] Exit
[1] General settings >> YDOC
[2] Modem settings
[3] NTP time update >> Not used
[4] Alarm messages >> Not used
[5] Option boards >> None
[6] Internal sensors >> Not used
[7] Analog inputs >> Not used
[8] Digital inputs >> Not used
[9] Network signal sensor >> Not used
[A] Serial port >> Not used
[B] Accessory port >> Not used
[C] Derived channels >> Not used
[D] Modem output >> Not used
[-] Wifi output >> N/A
>

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 18
Next type 7 for Analog inputs
Choose 1 for Port 1 (mA) and the next screen will appear:
Assign a name to the sensor (option 1: Name)
1. Set the power switch to enabled and enter the warm-up time. (the power switch will supply the sensor
with 12 Volts, and will be activated the time you specify, before a measurement is taken)
2. At default Set the sample interval to the ‘Data log interval’ so only one sample per data log interval
will be taken. You can set the sample interval to a specific value in case you want to record periodic
averages (e.g. a 10-minute wind direction, see chapter: Aggregation channels) or continues alarm
sampling.
3. Set the parameter name.
4. Set both minimum (option 6) and maximum (option 7) values of your sensor at 4mA and at 20mA. If
you don’t know those values, you could determine the scaling by measuring two calibration points
(option 8). Those calibration points don’t have to be at the sensors absolute minimum and maximum,
Analog inputs
[0] Exit
[1] Port 1 (mA) >> Analog1
[2] Port 2 (mA) >> Not used
[3] Port 3 (V) >> Not used
[4] Port 4 (V) >> Not
used
[5] Potentiometer >> Potentiometer
[T] Analog input test >> Not done
>
Analog input
[0]
Exit
[1] Name >> Analog1
[2] Sensor power >> Disabled
[3] Sample interval >> Data log
interval
[4] Port mode >> Port 1; 4-20 mA
[5] Parameter settings >> Analog
[6] Parameter value at 4 mA >> 0 units
[7] Parameter value at 20 mA >> 100 units
[8] Determine linear conversion function (2 calibration
points)
[9] Determine linear offset only (1 calibration point)
[R] Remove
[T] Test measurement
>

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 19
but just two different points within the range of the sensor. (e.g. a measurement at 1m water level and
a measurement at 2m water level, while the sensors range is 0...10m)
5. If necessary option 9 can be used to perform an offset correction by measuring a single calibration
point.
6. Save and Exit
Your screen will look similar to the one underneath:
Now we add the CT2X to the system:
Before we can do this, we need to know the MODBUS address and register address of this sensor,
always consult the manual of your sensor first. In this case the address of the sensor is #1. This sensor
measures two parameters: Temperature and conductivity. So, we need to look up two register addresses.
(Temperature: 62592 and Conductivity 62594, baud rate 38400)
Go to menu-option A <serial port 1> => RS 485 sensors => MODBUS.
After configuring your screen should look like this:
Analog
sensor
[0] Exit
[1] Name >> Water height
[2] Sensor power >> Enabled; Warm up 00:00:02
[3] Sample interval >> Data log interval
[4] Port mode >> Port 1; 4-20 mA
[5] Parameter settings >> Analog
[6] Parameter value at 4 mA >> 0
meter
[7] Parameter value at 20 mA >> 10 meter
[8] Determine linear conversion function (2 calibration points)
[9] Determine linear offset only (1 calibration
point)
[R] Remove
[T] Test measurement
>

ML-x17 DATA LOGGER MANUAL
Manufacturers of low power instruments page 20
The parameters are always read from Register start address onwards, so the specific address (62594) of
the conductivity-measurement is not used in the configuration. It automatically increases the register-
address in order to read it. All you have to do is select how many parameters are used, and the data type.
More on this topic is included in the reference chapter of this manual.
Multiple CT2X sensors can be connected to an RS485 bus so you need to specify its address (assuming
1 in this example). This sensor is a multiple parameter sensor, so please specify which you want to log.
Attention:
Because this is a digital sensor, it takes a little bit more time to measure than an analog sensor. So don’t
set the sample interval of digital sensors too short. 1 second is possible, but probably not ¼ sec. Just to
be sure we choose to sample at the data log interval. Consult the manual of your digital sensor and check
the response time. The sample-interval must be larger than the response time of the sensor.
Next thing is the setup of the data outputs.
Before that, we have to configure the general modem settings for mobile operation.
Go to Menu-option 2 <Modem settings>
MODBUS sensor
[0] Exit
[1] Name >> MODBUS
[2] Port settings >> RS485 8N1; 19200 Baud; Address 1
[3] Sensor power >> Disabled
[4] Sample interval >> Data log interval
[5] Protocol type >> RTU
[6] Measurement commands >> Not used
[7] Register type >> Holding
[8] Data type >> WORD (unsigned 2 bytes)
[9] Data start register >> 62592 (462593)
[A] Parameter 1 >> Water temperature
[B] Parameter 2 >> Conductivity
[C] Parameter 3 >> Not used
[D] Parameter 4 >> Not used
[E] Parameter 5 >> Not used
[F] Parameter 6 >> Not used
[G] Parameter 7 >> Not used
[H] Parameter 8 >> Not used
[I] Parameter 9 >> Not used
[M] More parameters >> Not used
[R] Remove
[T] Test measurement
>
Modem settings
[0] Exit
[1] Provider selection
[-] Network >> 4G
[3] Technology >> LTE-M
[...
[S] Network signal test >> Not done
[T] APN login test >> Passed
>