User Manual for AML Oceanographic Base
X
13
Maintaining the Instrument
Periodic Maintenance
Periodic preventative maintenance will prolong the life of the instrument. The following steps are
recommended:
•
If the instrument is very dirty or oily, allow it to soak in warm, soapy water before cleaning
with a rag or soft brush. When finished, rinse with fresh water to remove any residual soap
or dirt.
•
Before each use:
o
Check for
proper installation of all Xchange™ sensors.
o
Check for nicks and cuts on the cable.
•
After each use:
o
Clean and rinse the instrument using fresh water.
o
Dry the instrument completely, and store it in a cool, dry place.
•
Monthly:
o
Apply a layer of Molykote 44 medium silicone grease to the female half of the
connection as shown and fully insert the plug. Wipe away any excess that squeezes
out. This will lubricate both male and female connectors.
•
Yearly:
o
Send the instrument or Xchange™ sensors to a service centre
for diagnostics and
re-calibration.
Battery Care
Incorrect care can reduce the life of the batteries. Below are some guidelines to prevent damage to
the batteries:
•
Do not leave the data cable nor the red shorting plug installed in the instrument. This turns
the instrument on and depletes the battery.
•
Before storing the instrument for several months, fully charge the battery. The battery will
self-discharge at a rate of 2% per month so extended storage durations can require
recharging to protect the battery from fully depleting.
Battery Life
Base•X will provide approximately
18 hours of battery life with continuous sampling, however actual
life varies somewhat depending on the sensors installed. When logging at time intervals of 25
seconds or more, Base•X powers down between samples to conserve the
battery.
The instrument will indicate low battery life when the battery voltage is equal to or lesser than the
low voltage threshold, which is factory-set to a default 6.9 V.