System Operation Manual
SAT-DN-00434, Rev. B
LOBO
2017-05-16
Page 71 of 86
Copyright
2017 Sea-Bird Scientific. All rights reserved.
10
System Startup and Operation
This section describes how to configure and startup LOBO. As most LOBO systems are all functionally very
similar, differing only by the attached sensors, a generic procedure is used.
Remember to
lightly
lubricate male connector pins on cables and bulkhead connectors prior to installation
to avoid damage!
10.1
Prerequisites
The following details are required prior to setting up the system for operation.
10.1.1
Server Computer Prerequisites
The computer must be with a static IP address and without using virtual hosts. This IP address must be
configured on the STOR-X so it can contact the server to send email data and download new schedule files.
In addition, the server will require an email address with user name lobodata for the scripts to operate
properly. Port 25 is presumed for email data and Port 80 for the web server, but this can be modified if
required.
10.1.2
Cellular Telemetry Prerequisites
A data plan with the local cellular service provider will be required; this usually will be GSM/GPRS (e.g.
Cingular/AT&T). CDMA may be supported in special circumstances. Use the guidelines in Section 8.2 to
determine the size of the data plan you will need. A good rule of thumb is 50 kB per acquisition event; for
a once/hour schedule 24 hours per day, this amounts to about 1.2 MB per day. Generally speaking buy the
biggest data plan you can afford.
GSM/GPRS cellular network access requires the use of a SIM card, which needs to be purchased with the
data plan. CDMA modems do not use a SIM card; they are instead programmed by the distributor. These
modems tend to be provider-specific.
The following information regarding the cellular provider is required in order to access the network:
•
APN
•
User Name
•
Password
The dealer from whom you purchase the cellular plan should be able to provide this information, however
it is likely possible to find it on the Internet from a variety of sources. For example, at
http://voq.com/site/downloads/GPRSSettings.htm
, information on a large number of GSM providers can
be found. The STOR-X used in the LOBO will need to be configured with this information; the procedure
will be described later.
10.2
Startup Procedure
It is recommended to set up and test LOBO in the lab prior to deployment, preferably for a few days to
ensure all scheduled events are occurring as expected and emailed data is being received properly by the
server. Depending on the instrumentation, you may need to perform the tests in a tank as some sensors
can not be operated in air (e.g. WET Labs WQM because of the Sea-Bird pump).
The following procedures provide a detailed system check of each component in a typical system. It is
advised to perform all steps, as it is much easier to correct a problem in the lab than after it is deployed.
