Aquaread BlackBox™ Instruction Manual
10401-00618 Rev P
1. Introduction
This manual covers the setup, operation and maintenance of the Aquaread BlackBox at
software revision 2.00 and above, and should be read in conjunction with the latest revision
of the relevant Aquaread Aquaprobe Instruction Manual.
If your BlackBox is running
earlier software, the output protocols may be different from those shown in this
manual. In this case, contact Aquaread for an earlier version of this manual or return
your BlackBox for software upgrade (chargeable).
1.1. What does it do?
The Aquaread BlackBox is a data converter that allows any
model of Aquaread water quality probe (Aquaprobe) to be
interfaced directly to a third party processing, control or
logging device. The distance ‘A’ between the BlackBox and
the Aquaprobe can be up to 100 meters.
With a choice of industry standard digital interfaces and two
analogue channels, the BlackBox offers a versatile and cost
effective data collection solution utilising any of the
advanced range of Aquaread multiparameter Aquaprobes.
The BlackBox features an integral barometric pressure
sensor for automatic depth and DO correction and can
output up to thirty-three water parameters plus barometric
pressure on an SDI-12 or Modbus (RS485) Digital Interface.
In addition, any two parameters can be chosen for output on
the two independent 4 - 20mA analogue channels. Data is
refreshed every two seconds.
Low current consumption and a rugged aluminium case
make the BlackBox particularly suitable for long term
unattended deployment.
For applications where water quality data needs to be collected remotely, the BlackBox is
again the answer. In this configuration, logging device is replaced by a third party telemetry
device that can transmit data to a remote monitoring station anywhere in the world.
1.2. The BlackBox and the Environment
The BlackBox is designed to be used outdoors and is rated to IP67, that is to say it is
waterproof but it
is not
designed for submersion. Depth and Dissolved Oxygen
measurements rely on the ability of the BlackBox to read atmospheric pressure. If the unit
is submerged, the depth measurement feature will not work and the Dissolved Oxygen
readings will be erroneous.
Please note that the socket on the BlackBox is only waterproof when the associated
Aquaprobe plug is fitted. Without the plug fitted, water can enter the socket. Damage
caused to the socket by water ingress is not covered by your warranty.
You may notice a small hole on the side of the unit. This is a waterproof vent for the internal
barometric sensor.
Do not poke anything in this hole!
Doing so will cause major damage
to the vent’s waterproof membrane and invalidate your warranty.
© 2019 Aquaread Ltd.
www.aquaread.com
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