X3 Environmental Data Logger – FAQ

The X3 data logger contains an internal buzzer that gives audible insight into the power and connection status of the data logger and indication that a logger has completed a sensor detection or measurement.

X-Series data loggers automatically detect many common environmental sensors like weather stations, water quality sondes, ADCP current profilers, soil moisture sensors, and others communicating over common protocols such as SDI-12, NMEA0183, and RS-485 Modbus.

New X-Series data loggers come pre-loaded with scripts for a host of environmental sensors. Before running a sensor detection, it is imperative to review this default list to see if the script for the desired sensor is available and enabled.

X-Series data loggers support the SDI-12, RS-232, and RS-485 sensor interfaces for communication with a host of environmental sensors.

The normal operating temperature range of the X2 is -20°C to 70°C and -40°C to 70°C for the X3 but may vary depending on system accessories.

X-Series data loggers are grounded with a Grounding Kit included with purchase.

X-Series logger sensor ports utilize the standard pinout of NexSens UW-8 receptacle connectors.

X-Series logger sensor cable connectors utilize the standard pinout of NexSens UW-8 plug connectors, which mirror the pinout of the UW-8 receptacle sensor ports on the logger (see previous question).

The UW-6 power port on NexSens loggers utilizes the NexSens universal UW-6 pinout.

X-Series data loggers are offered with flexible communications options including Wi-Fi, cellular, Iridium satellite, radio and direct connect.

Each X3 data logger has a 5-digit body tag number (X3#####) located on the lower backside of the logger between the alignment screw and the green wire insert.

All X-Series data loggers have an internal set of sensors that measure important system health factors called meta parameters or diagnostic readings. This includes battery voltage, telemetry connection status, internal humidity, and more.

The desiccant bag in the X3 should be replaced whenever the enclosure is opened, moisture is observed to be condensing on the inside surface of the enclosure lid, or if the Internal Humidity diagnostic parameter reads 60% or greater.

For adequate signal strength and measurement quality with environmental sensors, the following are general guidelines for the maximum cable length for each sensor interface supported by X-Series data loggers.

NexSens X-Series data loggers can support 64 sensors and 200 parameters in total. However, depending on the telemetry type, there are technical restrictions on the number of parameters that can transmit to WQData LIVE.

Iridium systems must transmit data to an Iridium server which is polled only once every 5 minutes. This can introduce a delay of up to 5 minutes from sensors completing a measurement cycle.

The following NexSens terminology is commonly found in NexSens quick start guides, system integration guides, or in communication with NexSens technical support.

At a minimum, the X-Series data loggers and accessories should be powered off, sensor connection ports should be covered, and the equipment should be placed in a dry environment kept above freezing.