Switch power is used in data logging applications where power must be conserved. There are two separate implementations of this concept within the iSIC data logger. Sensor Switch Power Sensors plugged into SDL ports P1, T, and A or powered through pin 2 of an iSIC’s digital terminal strip are powered using switch power. This […]
4200-iSIC
Controlling an iSIC Using a Maintenance Switch
The maintenance switch is a feature in iChart software that can be used for external control of an iSIC data logger. Once the feature has been enabled and a channel has been set, a simple switch controls if the iSIC logs data or not. 1. Open iChart without a current project. 2. From the menu […]
Verifying the Address of an iSIC or SDL500 Data Logger
NexSens iSIC data loggers have a default address of 1. When connecting multiple iSICs to a single PC COM Port, unique addresses must be assigned to differentiate between them. This problem occurs most often when using a system of 4100-iSICs. 1. Open iChart without a current project. 2. From the menu bar select Advanced |iSIC | […]
Changing the Base Radio COM Port in an iChart Project File
In order for a base radio to communicate with iChart, the correct COM port needs to be selected. Sometimes the base radio’s COM port and the port that iChart checks for the base does not match. If this is the case, the best option would be to change the COM port that iChart checks for […]
Checking the Status of an iSIC DIO Signal
The iSIC data logger’s DIO0 and DIO1 lines are programmable digital input/output signals. In revision 6, the signals are 5V logic and can tolerate up to 6V. In revision 7, the signals are 3.3V logic and can tolerate up to 35V indefinitely. The most common use of these lines is to use them to drive […]
Resetting an iSIC or SDL500 in iChart
Many iSIC data logger commands can be executed remotely. However, this requires editing the .INI file, which can have hazardous effects if done incorrectly. Remote commands should only be used for very specific and deliberate purposes. 1. Open iChart without a current project. 2. From the menu bar select Edit | Preferences. 3. Switch to the GUI tab. […]
Confirming Connection Between an iSIC and a Computer
NexSens iSIC data loggers can connect to iChart software directly, or through the following telemetry options: analog phone modem, cellular modem, spread spectrum radio, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi. When setting up a new system or testing new configurations it is essential to establish and confirm communication between the iSIC and the PC. 1. Open iChart without […]
Confirming Power to an iSIC
Communication issues develop for a number of reasons, including poor signal strength, low battery, damaged hardware, loose connections, or excess moisture inside connectors or enclosures. If loss of real-time data, intermittent performance, or signal failure occurs, the first troubleshooting step is to verify that the iSIC is powered. 1. Disconnect the iSIC from all external […]
iSIC/SDL500 Power Management
iSIC and SDL500 data loggers have optional Power Management settings that can be used to conserve power for systems with a high power demand or when solar charging and battery power are limited. The Power Management settings are implemented through iChart software. Power Management allows users to turn off power-hungry devices such as cellular modems […]
Permanent Direct Connection with an iSIC Data Logger
All iSIC data loggers are equipped with a DB-9 serial connector for direct-to-PC communication through iChart software. There are times when it is convenient to connect directly to iChart. For example, while configuring, calibrating or updating the firmware of an iSIC. 1. Open iChart without a current project. 2. Use a DB-9 data cable to […]