CRVW3 3-Channel Vibrating-Wire Datalogger
38
the power requirements of the –RF451 radio option, it is anticipated that most
deployments of the CRVW3-RF451 will use the –RC option.
Although it is possible to operate the CRVW3 from a fully charged
7 Ah rechargeable battery without using a charge mechanism or
solar panel, it is anticipated that longer discharge times will be
obtained from the –ALK option rather than the –RC Option. The
–ALK option is recommended for non-charging battery-only
power scenarios.
The CRVW3 includes a built-in charge regulator to simplify the deployment
and use of a solar panel. The output from the solar panel connects directly into
this regulator via the charge terminals of the CRVW3.
The charge regulator can sense the voltage provided by the solar panel and
decide whether to charge the battery or simply draw power from the battery.
This ensures constant device operation during changes between periods of full
panel power production to periods of little or no panel output. This includes
changes from day to night or changes from clear weather to heavy cloud cover.
When sufficient power has been provided to charge the battery to its full state,
the charge regulator also applies just enough power to keep the battery in the
fully-charged state.
A 10 watt solar panel (SP10) is commonly used with the CRVW3. However,
5 watt or 20 watt panels (SP5, SP20) may also be used depending on site-
specific power needs. Procure the hardware needed to mount the panel for
optimal output. Installation instructions are provided with that hardware. The
solar panel should be installed with the visibility and orientation that optimizes
the capture of solar energy.
A spreadsheet is available from Campbell Scientific to help you
determine which solar panel you should use based on the
frequency of your measurements, radio communication activity,
and estimated solar exposure. Contact your local support office for
more information.
When connecting the solar panel output cable to the CRVW3, feed the cable
through the corresponding gland and secure the gland seal using a similar
process to that described in Section
Connecting Sensors to the CRVW3
(p.
. Connect the solar panel cable to the Charge “+” and “–” terminals. The
polarity of the leads from the solar panel must be observed, so check the
cabling carefully.
NOTE
NOTE
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