Sonic Water Level Meter Instructions
High Quality Groundwater and Surface Water Monitoring Instrumentation
(Page 1 of
4
)
Model 104
Operating Principles
The
Solinst Sonic Water Level Meter
consists of a Control
Unit and Probe. The Control Unit has a display, keypad, and
comes with 6 AA alkaline batteries. The Probe contains a
sound/pulse generator, microphone and temperature sensor.
The Sonic Water Level Meter works by the Probe transmitting a
sound wave into the pipe, tube, or well and measuring the time
it takes for the pulse to return after making contact with water.
The depth to water is calculated using the speed of sound and
time. Since the speed of sound varies with temperature, the
temperature sensor located in the Probe adjusts for variations.
IMPORTANT
• The Sonic Water Level Meter Control Unit and
Probe are not waterproof.
They are resistant to rain or
splashing, but can not be submerged.
Equipment Check and Setup
1. Connect the Probe to the Control Unit by plugging the
Probe cable connector into the connection on the side of the
Control Unit. Ensure the connector is completely pushed in.
2. Press the ON button. The Sonic WLM Version number
should briefly display and then show “Depth* Searching”.
There should be a popping sound from the Probe, if not,
ensure the Probe is plugged in properly. Turn the Sonic
Water Level Meter OFF by pressing the button.
3. Insert the Probe into the open well casing (less than 8" dia.),
or drop tube, and then cover any open area around the
Probe to stop the sound pulse from leaving the well. For
example, use the plastic disc that is supplied with the Solinst
Sonic Water Level Meter.
Notes:
1. The seal around the probe does not need to be
airtight, but the signal works better if there is a
proper seal keeping the pulse inside the well. It
also helps keep out external noise, including wind.
2.
If the top of the well or pipe is open, then it
should be covered
with a cap with a hole for the
probe to access. The included plastic disc from
Solinst is a good option.
3. For highest accuracy, insert the Probe into open
well casings less than 8" in diameter. Otherwise,
use a 1/2" up to 2" diameter drop tube from top
of well to just below the water level surface to
avoid any disruptions to the sound pulse.
Water Level Measurement
1. Press the ON button on the Control Unit. “Depth*
Searching” will be displayed as it obtains a stable depth to
water reading. The depth to water measurement will be
displayed after a few seconds.
2. To ensure the accuracy of the reading, use the Control Unit
to enter specific well details such as drop tube diameter
and the minimum and maximum water level measurement
range. See the following sections for setting up these, and
other parameters.
Note:
For the most accurate depth to water measurements, the
water level measurement range minimum and maximum,
and water temperature should be set.
3. Press the ON button (or the Read button if already on).
During or after “Depth* Searching” is displayed, press the
down arrow to show the battery voltage.
Note:
Batteries should be replaced at 6.5 volts.
