Frequently Asked Questions

For the AquaBat Water Level Monitoring Instrumentation  
Where do I get my application software?

See our download page. All you will need is the free AquaSync applications software for your Windows\Mobile device. Download the software and save on your computer. Follow the instructions to install on your Windows Mobile Device.

How can I analyse my data easily?

Down load our free AquaSoft excel spreadsheet which performs all the calculations required to compensate the data from the AquaBat(s) for atmospheric pressure variations, determine water level below ground level and express level related to National Survey datum. Additionally, AquaSoft allows you to compensate levels for other variables such as local gravity (world location and elevation) and temperature related density variations. AquaSoft requires Microsoft Excel to be installed on your computer. Makes sure that your computer has permission to run the AquaSoft macros!

Can I use the AquaBat for monitoring brackish/sea water?

The standard AquaBat main body is  316 stainless steel and will be subject to corrosion eventually. Nevertheless, the main body is fully encapsulated with sub sea grade encapsulate so even with corrosion of the main body the unit should still operate correctly. We have alternative models for extreme conditions so please contact us for details of your problem.

How do I know if my logger is logging?

Once you have set the unit logging, the AquaSync software will show that you have successfully started the logger. If you are unsure, when disconnected from the logger, merely look at the end of the fibre optic cable. A green light blinks every 30 seconds showing that the unit is operating.

How do I know if my logger is logging?

Once you have set the unit logging the AquaSync software will show that you have successfully started the logger. If you are unsure, when disconnected from the logger, merely look at the end of the fibre optic cable. A green light blinks every 30 seconds showing that the unit is operating.

What happens if I have a problem?

Call, Skype or email us and we will talk you through the solution.

Why don’t you use a vented cable to automatically compensate the AquaBat for atmospheric pressure changes?

We would never consider vented cables as a solution for long term monitoring applications. Vented cables are susceptible to blockage from moisture, kinking, algae and bacterial growth, rendering your sensor and data useless no matter how you try to protect the system with filters etc.

Do I always have to use a AquaBat-bar for atmospheric compensation?

No, but be aware that atmospheric pressure variations do have a significant effect on level data.  If you are doing a permeability test or pump test in a well of short duration you can probably ignore atmospheric pressure variations. For long term, yes you need a AquaBat-bar.

Do I need a AquaBat-bar for every AquaBat installation?

No. Typically one AquaBat-bar is acceptable for AquaBat installations contained within a 10 km radius of the AquaBat-bar. However do be aware that the atmospheric pressure is important to the level data and it would be sensible to allow for additional AquaBat-bar units if the monitoring site is subject to theft or other possible hazards (landslides or mechanical plant damage)

I want to monitor a site that has stable water levels that sometimes is greatly affected by rainfall/ pumping/construction events and I don’t want a mass of data on unchanging conditions.?

Easy, set your AquaBat to record at your minimum time period for stable readings, and set a time rate for your high or low trigger points. Once these points are reached, the AquaBat will go into the new logging strategy and revert to the old strategy when levels are restored.

Why do you not have standard logging models for pump tests?

The standard  test time schedule is the minimum required for level readings and was determined from the past when level readings were taken manually using Dipmeters. It is the early data that is particularly important (and most frequently missed, chasing water levels down the well with a Dipmeter!). Our recommendation is to set the AquaBat at your fastest scan rate. After all, the data only takes up lines in Excel. If you want to cut down on your recorded data, then set the AquaBat to trigger to a longer interval, after a predetermined depth is achieved.

How long does the battery last in the AquaBat?

The battery will last for up to 10 years but is dependent upon downloads and sampling usage. See specifications for a guide.

How can I tell if the AquaBat is working?

The AquaBat is unique  as it is possible to see with the un-aided eye when the instrument is operating.  Look into the instrument through the fibre attachment hole when no fibre cable attached, or at the end of the fibre cable. A a green flash of light occurs when data is being sent.

When operating in low power mode the green light pulse is every 30 seconds. When downloading data the LED flash rate is much higher. No harm can come to the device when examining for the data communications.


Can I look directly at the light communications pulse with my eye?

Yes. Examination of the green data pulse from the AquaBat is safe to the eye.

 
What size mounting bolts are used to fit the head of the AquaBat to the body?

Use only stainless steel M3 x 8 mm hex-hexagonal bolts to fit the head to the body to secure the fibre cable.  


What type of fibre cable should be used with the AquaBat?

Use 2.2 mm PVC jacket cable with 1 mm solid plastic core.  

There are 2 main types of cable available single mode and multi-mode. Use single mode fibre for long distance connection to the header unit. Use cheaper multi-mode cable when the deployment is under 50 m

AquaBat stock a range fibre cable and this can be order from the on-line shop.


My PDA/Mobile phone won’t talk to the Bluetooth on the Header unit?

The PDA/Mobile phone Bluetooth connection has to have a serial port assigned. Typically for AquaBat Header with many different PDA/Phone suppliers this is “Port 7”. Refer to your PDA or hands set manual for details on this operation. An example of typical operation is shown in the Header manual.

What is the maximum length of cable that can be used with the AquaBat

Use only mono-mode fibre for long distance deployments. Maximum distance is typically 200 m but this will vary depending upon the quality of the fibre cable being used.


Can I fit the fibre cable to AquaBat while the sensor is under water?

Yes. Cable can be attached to the sensor while under water. The AquaBat is a totally encapsulated device and does not depend upon any waterproof seals. Water in the hole where the cable is attached will have negligible effect on the instrument operations. The AquaBat uses light for data communications and this will pass through any small amount of water in the instrument communications port.


How often should I replace the O-ring used to attached the cable to AquaBat?

We commend the o-ring be swapped after long term deployments or when new cable is being fitted.
Use BS 005 V 75 Viton 75 shore hardness o-rings. These are available from the on-line shop.


I have deployed the AquaBat with a data logger. How can a guarantee my data?

The AquaBat can still operate as a stand-lone logger at the same time as transmitting data for SDI-12 network operations. Set the sample rate for the AquaBat to last for the duration of the deployment and simply download the stored data should the surface data recorder or communications systems fail


How do I prepare new cable to fit the AquaBat?

Very easy. Simply cut the cable to length and trip off 5 mm of sheathing from both ends of the cable. Make sure that the ends of the cable are clean cut and perfectly flat edge. The cleaner the cable end and the better the cut the the higher the optical  signal .  


How do I safe guard the fibre cable once the instrument is deployed?

Once the instrument is deployed and  being used for stand-alone long term operation, simply fit the fibre end cap onto the end of the cable. The fibre cap keeps end of the cable clean so it is ready for use when a download is required.

Additional fibre end caps are available from the on-line shop.


My AquaBat has been deployed for some time and I want to download. What need I do to the cable before downloading data?

Simply wash the end of the cable going into the Header unit with fresh water or wipe with a cloth. Make sure the end is as clean as possible for best results.