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The Ai1 transmits 3 messages in a row each time a new reading is obtained before shutting down until the next
reading, minimizing power consumption on the Ai1. It is recommended to include surge protection on the incoming
wires.
The RADOUT supports Hayes AT commands which may be used to reconfigure the radio interface from the default
configuration, or to check configuration (such as radio frequency, power and baud rate). The AT commands are
documented here:
http://rfdesign.com.au/documentation/sik-at-commands/
9.
Power Considerations
9.1
Solar Power Budget
The Ai1 can be ordered with a variety of solar panel designs. As some panel orientations will result in less solar
charging than the ideally orientated panel, the following table provides derating values for each configuration, to be
used in the solar power calculator. The most common configuration for the Ai1BUOY is the 3 x 9W panels mounted
vertically on the Ai1.
Panel Option
Equivalent Solar Panel Wattage
Ai1POLE 9W panel with 45° fixed mounting towards winter sun
9W
Ai1POLE 17W panel with 45° fixed mounting towards winter sun
17W
Ai1BUOY 2 x 9W panels with 45° angle mounting on buoy
11W
Ai1BUOY 3 x 9W panels vertical mounting on
buoy
8W
When determining the power budget, it is recommended to perform detailed calculations including the duty cycle
(on time / off time) for all subsystems and sensor power requirements, with safety factors to prevent deep battery
discharge, and to allow for solar panel loses over time. A spreadsheet power budget calculator with example values
for typical sensors, is available for download from:
Approximate Sunshine Duration Method
:
A significant factor in the power budget calculation is Sunshine Duration for the installation location. For initial
calculations, the map below can be used to categorize locations.
Zone
Recommended Ai1 model
Measurement frequency and online state
<1.0
Unsuitable (external power)
Maximum power conservation
1.0-1.9
Ai1-18W (2x9W+6Ah LiPo)
May require communications window, and slow
measurement updates
2.0-2.9
3.0-3.9
Ample power, full-time online, high frequency
measurements
4.0-4.9
5.0-5.9
6.0+
Detailed Method
:
