1. Prepare to Assemble

Check that you have all necessary parts to assemble your FieldKit station. We strongly recommend going through the set-up of your station at home. This allows you to assemble your station fully, calibrate accurately, and connect to the internet for troubleshooting before you go into the field. Here’s a list of parts you’ll need to proceed (you can also see a list of parts with photos and helpful information at our FieldKit Parts List):

CORE
A) Upper Board
B) Lower Board
C) Module Base

SENSORS
D) Module Board(s), found in each Sensor Pack

POWER
E) Battery
F) Micro-USB cable
G) Solar Panel and Cable (optional)

CASE
H) FieldKit Case
I) Cable Plate Packs
J) Station Screw Packs

2. Separate the Upper and Lower Boards

The Upper and Lower Boards come pre-assembled to protect the pins, so you’ll need to pull them apart in order to secure the Lower Board to the case, before re-assembling them.

Take the Boards

Pick up the combined Upper and Lower Boards.

Pull Boards Apart

Hold the Upper Board between your thumb and forefinger, and the Lower Board similarly. Then, rock the boards back and forth gently on a diagonal plane to pull them apart. Set the Upper Board aside for now.

3. Attach Module Base

Attach the Lower Board to the Module Base.

Line Up

Line up the Lower Board with the Module Base.

Press Together

Press together. You’re now ready to start securing your boards in the case.

4. Secure Inside Case

Secure your circuit boards inside the Case.

Place Components

Place your assembled components inside the Case. The wire coming out of the WiFi button on the left can be run along the boards at the top and then re-emerge on the right side, as pictured.

Screw Down the Boards

Secure everything down with the included screws (in the packet marked ‘Core to Case Screws’) so that the hardware doesn’t move around and risk damaging the boards.

Got Them All?

Make sure you’ve screwed in the screws that will be covered up once you put the Upper Board and Module Boards on.

Note: We recommend screwing down all nine screws for maximum security.

These Screws Feel Too Tight!

The screws might feel as if they’re too tight as you screw them into the plastic for the first time. They are thread forming screws, so expect some resistance as you’re screwing the threads into the smooth plastic.

5. Place Upper Board

Now it’s time to replace the Upper Board on top of the Lower Board.

Take the Upper Board

Locate the Upper Board that you previously set aside.

Line Up

Hover the Upper Board above the Lower Board that is now secure in the case. Be sure to line up the pin headers and sockets.

Press Together

Then press them together firmly.

6. Attach Module Boards

Now add your Module Boards. You’ll find your Module Board(s) in the Sensor Pack(s) you bought.

Remove Tape Circles

Remove the small transparent yellow tape circles from the standoffs where you’ll attach your Module Board(s) to the Module Base.

Line Up and Press Down

Line up the Module Board with the pins on one of the bays on the Module Base. Carefully press down the Module Board into place over the pins, applying gentle, even pressure.

Screw Down the Module Board

Secure it down with the included screws (in the packet marked ‘Module Board Screws’). Repeat with all Module Boards.

7. Attach Battery

We’ve designed the FieldKit Case with a battery holder to store the Battery.

Place Battery Into Battery Holder

Place your Battery into the battery holder on the left hand side of the core.

Insert Battery Cable

Insert the red and black battery cable into the socket on the top left hand side of the Upper Board where it says “BATTERY”.

8. Attach Button

Everything is better with a big button!

Locate the Button Cable

On the left hand outer wall of the Case, you’ll see a big black button. This is the Wake Button that you’ll later use to wake up the station and turn on the Station WiFi signal.

If you follow the button into the interior left hand wall of the Case, you’ll see two metal prongs with a red and black cable attached. That’s the button cable.

Insert Button Cable

Take the button cable and insert it into the socket on the top right hand side of the Upper Board where it says “BTN”.

9. Plug in Micro-USB Cable to Charge Station

Time to power up!

Locate the Micro-USB Cable

As part of your station, you’ll find a black Micro-USB Cable that you will use to charge the Battery.

Plug in Cable to Charge Station

Plug in the Micro-USB cable to a power source (e.g. a USB wall charger) to start charging the Battery. Your station takes 6-12 hours to fully charge, and it should be fully charged before you deploy. It charges faster when switched off.

10. Switch On to Connect

It’s almost time to connect to your station!

Switch On

Flip the small switch in the top left of the Upper Board to the “ON” position, so your FieldKit station comes to life, and you’re ready to connect.

You can do this with either the tip of your finger or your fingernail, or even the tip of your screwdriver.

Screen Display Turns On

Once you’ve turned it on, the screen display turns on and the display startup sequence begins. The Conservify logo appears briefly followed by the station name and startup diagnostics.

Once the station has successfully booted up, the display turns off after a few minutes. Pressing any button below the screen (or the Wake button) turns the display back on. After a period of inactivity, the display will then turn off.

1. Turn on Station WiFi

Your station has an access point with its own WiFi signal. It acts like a hotspot so you can connect to it via your mobile device and transfer data (note that it does not connect to the Internet).

Press the button to enable the station’s Access Point (AP). WiFi can also be turned on using the menu on the Station screen. See the Station Screen Interface section for more details. This button will also connect the station to the last network it was connected to if a network has been saved in the app’s station settings.

2. Connect to your Station

Go to your mobile phone WiFi settings and select the station name displayed on the station screen. The name will default to a random combination of a descriptive adjective, a name of an animal, and a number, such as Friendly Squid 42 or Gentle Eagle 23.

3. Select your Station WiFi in the App

The app automatically will search for nearby FieldKit stations that have their WiFi enabled. Choose the one you are setting up (the same one as the previous step).

4. Name Station

Once the app confirms that your station is connected, you can choose to name your FieldKit Station something different than the default. Providing a unique name or number for each station can help you personalize and remember each one. You can always skip this part and change your station name later.

5. Connect to New Station Name

If you have renamed your station, re-connect to your station’s new name as listed in your phone’s WiFi settings.

6. Choose WiFi Settings based on your Deployment Location

Choose how to connect and sync data based on your deployment location (you can always update this later in Settings). Think about where you will deploy. Will the station have internet access?

Remote Location (No Internet) → Station WiFi (Access Point)
For a remote location with limited internet access, we recommend using the Station AP. This option syncs station data to your phone only. When you have an internet connection later, you can then use your phone to upload it to the FieldKit web portal.

Connected Location (Internet Access) → WiFi Network (Internet)
For connected locations with internet access, we recommend adding 1-2 preferred WiFi networks to sync station data straight to the FieldKit web portal. If the station is unable to join these networks, it will use its Station AP as a fallback.

7. Connecting in the Future

If returning to a station after days, weeks or months, the FieldKit app should be able to detect the Station WiFi and connect automatically after hitting the Wake button. In situations where the mobile app and station do not auto-detect one another, open up your phone’s WiFi settings to reconnect. For more information on this, see the Sync Data section.

1. Take your Components

Collect your gland components.

2. Remove Insert

Remove the front cap on the gland and remove the insert. For glands with a free floating insert, skip this step. Additionally, you will not need to remove nor modify the insert in the 1 CAT5 cable plate gland used with the FieldKit weather module, so you may disregard steps 3, 4, and 6 below in that case.

3. Cut Slit in Insert

The cable connector is too wide to thread through the diameter of the insert hole. Therefore, you’ll have to cut a slit next to each insert hole to provide a way for the cable body (the thinner part) to slot in from the side.

Using scissors or a box cutter knife, carefully cut a slit that runs from the outside of the insert to the outer edge of the hole for each cable. Please take appropriate safety measures.

4. Thread Cable through Cap

Run the cable connector that plugs into the module board through the front cap (front to back).

5. Slot Cable into Insert

On the far side of the cap, slot the cable into the insert hole sideways using the slit you’ve just cut.

Repeat steps 3-5 as necessary for all cables going through that insert.

6. Add Insert to Gland

Now that the insert is attached to the cables, thread them into the gland body, front to back, so they exit the locking nut.

7. Secure Insert

Softly screw on the front cap to hold the insert loosely in place.

8. Set Gland into Cable Plate

Remove the locking nut from the back of the gland, insert the threaded side of the gland into the cable plate hole.

Note that when assembling the Cable Plate, the gland for the power cables (if used) generally goes on the left side of the plate and the gland for the sensor cables goes on the right.

9. Lock Gland into Place

Replace the locking nut, tightening until it stops.

Repeat the above steps as necessary for all glands.

10. Position Cable Plate

Once all your cables with inserts are in their respective glands and attached to the cable plate, you’re ready to screw your cable plate into place on your case by tightening the locking nut back into place.

11. Add O-Rings to Screws

Open the packet marked ‘Cable Plate Screws’, and ensure that the included o-rings are fitted onto the cable plate screws. This provides optimal weather protection.

12. Check Gasket

Next, check that the gasket is pressed into the case groove to form a snug fit.

13. Screw in Cable Plate

Finally, screw your cable plate into place using the Cable Plate screws. It should be screwed in tightly, but be careful not to over-tighten the screws. The o-rings should be slightly compressed but not completely flattened.

14. Adjust Cables and Tighten Front Cap

Loosen the front cap on the gland and adjust the length of your cables so that they reach their respective connectors on the FieldKit station without too much extra slack.

Tighten the front cap on the glands until they’re snug and the cables no longer slide.

15. Double Check Cables

Regardless of assembly order (either assembling the cable plate alongside module setup, or at the very end once you’re ready to deploy), be sure to follow each cable from the instrument to the module board to ensure that it is plugged into the right module board. It may be easier to run your finger along the cable to make sure you have the right one.

Optional: To improve water resistance, silicone can be used on the inserts to create a seal.

1. Do you have everything?

Collect the pH Probe. The pH Module Board should already be attached to your station.

2. Attach to Station

Screw the pH Probe cable into the pH Module Board.

3. Congratulations!

Your pH Module is now activated and ready for calibration.

1. Do you have everything?

Make sure you have 3 different pH standard solutions. We recommend pH 4.00, 7.00, and 10.00. These instructions will proceed as if you are going from lowest to highest pH but the order in which you perform the calibration does not matter.

2. Calibration Point 1

First, you’ll put the probe in the first pH buffer.

a) Insert pH Probe
Insert the probe into a container with at least enough pH 4.00 standard solution to completely cover the glass and electrode portion sticking out of the plastic at the base of of the pH probe.

b) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the pH Probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the value from the pH standard solution into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “pH 4.00”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the value of your pH standard solution.

c) Success
When the timer stops, press the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to later calibrate the sensor.

3. Calibration Point 2

Then, you’ll put the probe in the second pH buffer.

a) Rinse and Dry Probe
Rinse off the probe end with water. You can either use a bottle with a nozzle for this, or just dip the probe end into water (do not re-use the water between calibration points). Dry using your clean towel.

b) Insert pH Probe
Place the pH Probe into the container with at least enough pH 7.00 standard solution to completely cover the glass and electrode portion sticking out of the plastic at the base of of the pH probe.

c) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the pH Probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the value from the pH standard solution into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “pH 7.00”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the value of your pH standard solution.

d) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to later calibrate the sensor.

4. Calibration Point 3

Finally, you’ll put the probe in the third pH buffer.

a) Rinse and Dry Probe
Rinse off the probe end with water. You can either use a bottle with a nozzle for this, or just dip the probe end into water (do not re-use the water between calibration points). Dry using your clean towel.

b) Insert pH Probe
Place the pH Probe into the container with at least enough pH 10.00 standard solution to completely cover the glass and electrode portion sticking out of the plastic at the base of the pH probe.

c) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the pH Probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the value from the pH standard solution into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “pH 10.00”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the value of your pH standard solution.

d) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to complete calibration.

5. Congratulations!

You’ve now completed your pH calibration.

1. Do you have everything?

Collect the Water Temperature Probe. The Water Temperature Module Board should already be attached to your station.

2. Attach to Station

Screw the Water Temperature Probe cable into the Water Temperature Module Board.

3. Congratulations!

Your Water Temperature Module is now activated and ready for calibration.

1. Do you have everything?

Make sure you have three temperature sources and a standard thermometer.

We recommend using the following sources in this order: a container of ice water (0°C), room temperature water, and a container of boiling water (100°C).

2. Low-Point Calibration

First, you’ll measure a low temperature. Usually we’d use a physical constant. In this case it’s the triple point of water, 0°C, the temperature at which water can exist as a solid, a liquid, and a gas.

a) Mix Some Ice Water
Place some ice cubes into a container of water. Thoroughly mix it together.

b) Insert Water Temperature Probe and Standard Thermometer
Place the Water Temperature Probe and standard thermometer into the cup of ice water that’s been thoroughly mixed.

c) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the readings on the standard thermometer to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the value from the standard thermometer into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “0°C”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the value displaying on your thermometer.

d) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to later calibrate the sensor.

3. Mid-Point Calibration

Then, you’ll measure an arbitrary temperature, probably between 0 and 100 °C. Usually ambient or room temperature is used for this.

a) Dry Off Probe and Standard Thermometer
Dry off the Water Temperature Probe and standard thermometer.

b) Place Water Temperature Probe and Standard Thermometer
Place the standard thermometer and Water Temperature Probe in contact with one another in a container of room temperature water.

c) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the readings on the standard thermometer to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the value from the standard thermometer into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “20°C”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the value displaying on your thermometer.

d) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to later calibrate the sensor.

4. High-Point Calibration

Finally, you’ll use the boiling point of water as your high point for calibration. This will vary with your altitude and barometric pressure, so the 100 °C that you’d get under 100 kPa at sea level isn’t necessarily what you’ll see. Thus make certain to enter the temperature from your standard thermometer into the calibration temperature field in the app.

a) Boil Water
Boil some water and pour it into a container that is capable of withstanding boiling temperatures.

b) Dry Off Probe and Standard Thermometer
Dry off the Water Temperature Probe and standard thermometer.

c) Insert Water Temperature Probe and Standard Thermometer
Place the Water Temperature Probe and standard thermometer into the container of boiling water.

d) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the readings on the standard thermometer to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the value from the standard thermometer into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “100°C”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the value displaying on your thermometer.

e) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to complete calibration.

5. Congratulations!

You’ve now completed your water temperature calibration.

1. Do you have everything?

Collect the Conductivity Probe. The Conductivity Module Board should already be attached to your station.

2. Attach to station

Screw the Conductivity Probe cable into the Conductivity Module Board.

3. Congratulations!

Your Conductivity Module is now activated and ready for calibration.

1. Do you have everything?

Make sure you have three different conductivity standard solutions. We recommend 1,000, 10,000, and 100,000 µS/cm. These instructions will proceed as if you are going from lowest to highest concentration of salt, but the order in which you perform the calibration does not matter.

2. Calibration Point 1

First, you’ll put the Conductivity Probe into the lowest conductivity solution, the one with the least salt dissolved in it, and measure what that conductivity is so you can compare it with the standard’s expected value.

a) Insert Conductivity Probe
Place the Conductivity probe into a container with at least enough 1,000 µS/cm standard solution to completely cover the hole near the end of the probe.

b) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the Conductivity probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the value from the Conductivity standard solution into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “1,000 µS/cm”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with your conductivity standard solution value.

c) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to later calibrate the sensor.

3. Calibration Point 2

Then, you’ll clean off the probe and put it in the second solution.

a) Rinse and Dry Probe
Rinse off the probe end with water. You can either use a bottle with a nozzle for this, or just dip the probe end into water  (do not re-use the water between calibration points). Dry using your clean towel.

b) Insert Conductivity Probe
Place the Conductivity probe into a container with at least enough 10,000 µS/cm standard solution to completely cover the hole near the end of the probe.

c) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the Conductivity probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the value from the Conductivity standard solution into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “10,000 µS/cm”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with your conductivity standard solution value.

d) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to later calibrate the sensor.

4. Calibration Point 3

Finally, you’ll clean off the probe and put it in the highest conductivity solution.

a) Rinse and Dry Probe
Rinse off the probe end with water. You can either use a bottle with a nozzle for this, or just dip the probe end into water (do not re-use the water between calibration points). Dry using your clean towel.

b) Insert Conductivity Probe
Place the Conductivity probe into a container with at least enough 100,000 µS/cm standard solution to completely cover the hole near the end of the probe.

c) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the Conductivity probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the value from the Conductivity standard solution into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “100,000 µS/cm”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with your conductivity standard solution value.

d) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to complete calibration.

5. Congratulations!

You’ve now completed your conductivity calibration.

1. Do you have everything?

Collect the Dissolved Oxygen Probe. The Dissolved Oxygen Module Board should already be attached to your station.

2. Attach to station

Screw the Dissolved Oxygen Probe cable into the Dissolved Oxygen Module Board.

3. Congratulations!

Your Dissolved Oxygen Module is now activated and ready for calibration.

1. Do you have everything?

Gather together a container of water, an aquarium air pump, tubing and airstone, and a standard Dissolved Oxygen meter.

2. Calibration Point 1

First, you’ll get a baseline reading of the amount of oxygen dissolved in the water that you’re using for the calibration.

a) Insert Dissolved Oxygen Probe
Place the Dissolved Oxygen Probe in a container of water with your standard dissolved oxygen meter probe.

b) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the Dissolved Oxygen probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the reading from the Dissolved Oxygen meter into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “5%”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the Dissolved Oxygen meter’s reading.

c) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to later calibrate the sensor.

3. Calibration Point 2

Then, you’ll get some oxygen dissolved in the water using a bubbler and measure its concentration.

a) Add the Airstone
Place the aquarium pump air stone into the container alongside the Dissolved Oxygen Probe and your standard meter.

b) Turn the Air Pump to Low for 3 Mins
Turn the air pump to low for three minutes.

c) Turn off the Pump
Turn off the pump.

d) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the Dissolved Oxygen probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the reading from the Dissolved Oxygen meter into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “7.5%”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the Dissolved Oxygen meter’s reading.

e) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to later calibrate the sensor.

4. Calibration Point 3

Finally, you’ll attempt to saturate the water with as much oxygen as it can hold to calibrate the upper end of the probe’s range.

a) Keep Everything in the Container
Leave the aquarium pump air stone, Dissolved Oxygen Probe and your standard meter in the container.

b) Turn the Air Pump to High for 3 Mins
Turn the air pump to high for three minutes.

c) Turn off the Pump
Turn off the pump.

d) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the Dissolved Oxygen probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the reading from the Dissolved Oxygen meter into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “9%”.If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the Dissolved Oxygen meter’s reading.

e) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to complete calibration.

5. Congratulations!

You’ve now completed your dissolved oxygen calibration.

1. Do you have everything?

Gather together a container of water, an aquarium air pump, tubing and airstone, and an aquarium test kit.

2. Calibration Point 1

First, you’ll get a baseline reading of the amount of oxygen dissolved in the water that you’re using for the calibration.

a) Insert Dissolved Oxygen Probe
Place the Dissolved Oxygen Probe in a container of water.

b) Follow Test Kit Instructions
Follow the instructions that came with your test kit (your standard) to test the same container of water and get your standard value. Note: We don’t list out every step here because each test kit may be slightly different (e.g. some use test strips while others use liquid reagents in a test vial.

c) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the Dissolved Oxygen probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the reading from the test kit into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “5%”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the test kit’s reading.

d) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to later calibrate the sensor.

3. Calibration Point 2

Then, you’ll get some oxygen dissolved in the water using a bubbler and measure its concentration.

a) Add the Airstone
Place the aquarium pump air stone into the container alongside the Dissolved Oxygen Probe and your test kit.

b) Turn the Air Pump to Low for 3 Mins
Turn the air pump to low for three minutes.

c) Turn off the Pump
Turn off the pump.

d) Follow Test Kit Instructions
Follow the instructions that came with your test kit (your standard) to test the same container of water, and get your standard value. Note: We don’t list out every step here because each test kit may be slightly different e.g. some use test strips, while others use liquid reagents in a test vial.

e) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the Dissolved Oxygen probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the reading from the test kit into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “7.5%”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the test kit’s reading.

f) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to later calibrate the sensor.

4. Calibration Point 3

Finally, you’ll attempt to saturate the water with as much oxygen as it can hold to calibrate the upper end of the probe’s range.

a) Keep Everything in the Container
Leave the aquarium pump air stone, Dissolved Oxygen Probe and your test kit in the container.

b) Turn the Air Pump to High for 3 Mins
Turn the air pump to high for three minutes.

c) Turn off the Pump
Turn off the pump.

d) Follow Test Kit Instructions
Follow the instructions that came with your test kit (your standard) to test the same container of water, and get your standard value. Note: We don’t list out every step here because each test kit may be slightly different e.g. some use test strips, while others use liquid reagents in a test vial.

e) Enter Standard Value as Readings Stabilize
Allow time for the reading on the Dissolved Oxygen probe to stabilize. In the app, the timer will count down. As you wait for the timer to count down, enter the reading from the test kit into the app field. Note: This field will be pre-populated with “9%”. If yours is different, you can edit what is displayed and should override it with the test kit’s reading.

f) Success
When the timer stops, hit the “Calibrate” button. This will record both the current sensor value and the standard value together, which allows us to complete calibration.

5. Congratulations!

You’ve now completed your dissolved oxygen calibration.

1. Do you have everything?

Collect the following:

1) Distance Module Board
2) Distance Sensor Board
3) CAT5 Cable
4) Ultrasonic Rangefinder
5) Distance Sensor Enclosure (not included)

The Distance Module Board should already be attached to your station.

2. Insert CAT5 Cable into Distance Sensor Board

Insert one end of the CAT5 cable into the Distance Sensor Board.

Insert Cable

Make sure you insert it in the right direction.

3. Put Ultrasonic Rangefinder in Enclosure

Place the Ultrasonic Rangefinder into the enclosure that you have identified as the best fit for your particular deployment.

4. Attach Distance Sensor Board

Plug the Distance Sensor Board into the 7-pin connector on the distance sensor. Note that both the connector bodies should be on the same side of the circuit boards, so that the pins are connected correctly and not flipped.

5. Attach to Station

Time to plug into your FieldKit station.

Insert CAT5 Cable into Distance Module Board

Make sure that the other end of the CAT5 cable is securely inserted into the Distance Module Board.

6. Cable Management

As the Ultrasonic Rangefinder may need to be some distance from the FieldKit station itself, the cables are long for the benefit of those who may need to place it further away. If the instruments are placed near one another, please use the included zip ties for cable management.

7. Explore Mounting Solutions

There are a few ways to approach mounting. Experiment and find a mounting solution that will work for your particular deployment location.

Zip-Ties to Mount and Secure

You’ll use the zip-ties to help mount and secure your Distance Sensor Enclosure. They are also useful to hold your hanging cable against whatever your Distance Sensor Enclosure is mounted to.

Other Options

You can also use a 1” hole in the cable plate on the FieldKit itself to mount the Ultrasonic Rangefinder with a ¾” NPS/NPT nut.

8. Congratulations! Now Test it Out!

You should now have an assembled Distance Sensor! Make sure you know how to place your Distance Sensor before heading out into the field. If you have questions, feel free to reach out to the FieldKit team.

1. Do you have everything?

Collect the following:

1) Weather Module Board
2) Weather Sensor Board
3) CAT5 Cable
4) Stevenson Screen + Arm
5) Rain Gauge + Arm
6) Anemometer, Wind Vane + Arm
7) Mounting Pole (2 parts)
8) Hose Clamp
9) Weather Instrument Cluster Screws

The Weather Module Board should already be attached to your station.

You will also need a compass—we recommend the Suunto A-10 Compass or equivalent—to align the wind vanes when setting up the Weather Instrument Cluster (not included).

2. Insert CAT5 Cable into Weather Sensor Board

Insert one end of the CAT5 cable into the Weather Sensor Board.

Insert Cable

Make sure you insert it in the right direction.

3. Connect Rain Gauge

The Rain Gauge measures rainfall. It doesn’t require emptying, as it’s a tipping-bucket type. Inside is a tipping bucket (a bit like a see-saw) with areas where rain collects. When one side is full, it tips over, emptying out the water. Push in the tabs on the sides of the housing and open it up to see how it works!

Insert Rain Gauge RJ11 Jack

Unravel the Rain Gauge wire. Note that that rain gauge wire has two wires exposed in the clear end of the connector (versus the wind gauge wire which has four exposed). Turn over the Weather Sensor Board, and insert the RJ11 jack from the Rain Gauge into the slot on the Weather Sensor Board marked “RAIN.”

Attach Rain Gauge Arm

Attach the Rain Gauge to the Arm with the screw provided.

4. Connect Wind Vane and Anemometer

The Wind Vane shows you the direction that the wind is blowing, and the Anemometer measures wind speed.

Insert Wind Vane RJ11 Jack

Unravel the wires from the Wind Vane and Anemometer. Note that that wind vane wire has four wires exposed in the clear end of the connector and the anemometer wire has two wires exposed (same as the rain gauge wire which also has two exposed). Insert the RJ11 jack from the Wind Vane into the slot on the Weather Sensor Board marked “WIND.”

Insert Anemometer RJ11 Jack

Insert the RJ11 jack from the Anemometer into the Wind Vane so that they are connected (the Anemometer switch conductors are shared between the Anemometer and the Wind vane.)

Attach Anemometer and Wind Vane onto Arm

One by one, push the Anemometer and Wind Vane onto the arm, and screw them in.

5. Place Stevenson Screen

The Stevenson Screen is a breathable enclosure that protects the Weather Sensor Board circuitry from the elements without interfering with the sensors.

Insert Weather Sensor Board

Insert the Weather Sensor Board into the Stevenson Screen.

Attach Stevenson Screen Arm

Attach the enclosed board to the Arm with the screw and nut provided. To tighten, we recommend holding the nut with a pair of needle-nose pliers and tightening the screw by hand with your screwdriver.

6. Attach to Station

Time to plug into your FieldKit station.

Insert CAT5 Cable into Weather Module Board

Make sure that the other end of the CAT5 cable is securely inserted into the Weather Module Board.

7. Position Instruments

Now that everything is connected, assemble the pole and mount your instruments. It’s a good idea to do all this before you head out into the field to gather any extra hardware needed, and land on an optimum configuration.

Assemble Mounting Pole

The mounting pole comes in two pieces. Take a moment to identify which piece has a notch at the end, then slide the two pieces together to create one longer pole. The notched end should be at the top of the assembled mounting pole when completed.

Add Anemometer and Wind Vane Arm to Pole

Add the Anemometer and Wind Vane Arm to the top of the assembled pole and snugly line up the notch at the end of the mounting pole with the corresponding area on the arm and note the screw holes in each. Use the included screw to secure the arm to the mounting pole.

Add Stevenson Screen and Rain Gauge Arms

Take the Stevenson Screen Arm and Rain Gauge Arm, and loosen the pole openings by unscrewing the screws slightly.

Slide the one assembled pole through the instrument arms, and tighten the screws so that they are secure on the pole.

8. Cable Management

As the Anemometer and Wind Vane need to be at least 5 m above open ground to give you representative wind data, the cables are long for the benefit of those who choose not to place the Stevenson Screen close by. If the instruments are placed near one another, please use the included zip ties for cable management.

Slide Wire into Clips

On the bottom side of the Anemometer and Wind Vane Arm there are clips to hold the wires in place. Slide the wire from each instrument into the clips.

Secure onto the Mounting Pole

Run all of the remaining wires down the assembled pole, and secure them with the hose clamps (you may also want to source some zip ties to be extra secure). This will avoid them being yanked out of the circuit boards by strong winds.

9. Explore Mounting Solutions

There are a few ways to approach mounting. Experiment and find a mounting solution that will work for your particular deployment location.

Hose Clamps to Mount and Secure

You’ll use the Hose Clamps to help mount and secure your weather cluster. They are useful to hold your hanging cables against the pole and attach the pole itself to a mast in the environment that reaches the appropriate height to take accurate measurements (more than 5 m above the ground.) Tighten the hose clamps using a flat head screwdriver.

Other Options

Plan for the terrain of your deployment location, and identify which type of mast in the environment you will use to mount your Weather Instrument Cluster. The mast you have in mind might be thicker than the diameter of the Hose Clamps provided, so visit your local hardware store for something with the right specifications.

10. Congratulations! Now Test it Out!

You should now have an assembled Weather Instrument Cluster! Make sure you know how to place your Weather Cluster before heading out into the field. Check out the Weather Deployments section and do a test run at home to make sure you’re prepared.

Congratulations!

Your readings should now be accurate.

1. Slide Off Box Lid

Turn the panel onto its front, so the back side is facing up. You’ll see a black box on the back of the panel. Slide off the box lid by applying some pressure where it says “OPEN” and pulling down.

2. Remove Screws

Remove each of the two screws and washers from the threads within the box.

3. Find Cable

Locate your solar panel cable. Take the end that terminates in two wires, one red and one black, each attached to a metal lug (a circular metal finding).

4. Attach Cable

Place the two lugs over the threads in the box, then reinstate the screws and washers. Screw them back into place.

5. Sculpt Wires

Bend and mold the wires so that they fit into the groove. They are quite stiff, so don’t be afraid to push them with some force. It will be a snug fit.

6. Slide On Box Lid

First, make sure everything is sitting as flat as possible. Then, apply some pressure and slide the lid back onto the box.

7. Insert Solar Cable

Take the other end of the solar cable and insert it into the top middle socket of the Upper Board where it says “SOLAR.”  When inserted, the cable should have the red wire on the left and the black wire on the right–if this is not the case with your cable, please reach out to FieldKit so that we may replace your cable.

1. Data Capture Plan

Consider the appropriate data capture schedule for your project. How often and at what time of day will you take readings? Where will you deploy your station?

2. Take Notes and Pictures!

Plan to help your team and the community better understand their environment and improve future troubleshooting with some contextual notes and pictures. You’ll use the app to do this in the field once you initiate the deployment process.

3. Access Issues

Check in with landowners and stakeholders before deploying your FieldKit. If deploying on state- or federally-owned land, review protocols or contact park personnel. Obtain permits as needed.

4. Double-check Station

Ensure your FieldKit Station is fully constructed and operational before taking it into the field. Assemble your cable plate if you haven’t done so already. If you are shipping your FieldKit or otherwise expect a long journey, we recommend transporting your station with the cable plate and probes removed and safely packaged and then re-assembling your cable plate when you reach your destination.

5. Data Storage Back-up and Firmware Updates

We recommend that you check for firmware updates and update your station firmware when you are near your station and have a reliable internet connection. Do this before you go into the field to deploy your station or plan to leave it alone for a long period of time. For detailed instructions on how to update your firmware, check out Update the Firmware.

In order to back up your data and update your firmware, (which we highly recommend), make sure a microSD card* is in the FieldKit cardholder on the Upper Board.

6. Verify Power Source

What are your power sources? If you’re not using a solar panel or plugging into power directly, is your FieldKit fully charged or equipped with fresh batteries?

7. Consider Mounting Materials

Are you mounting your FieldKit to a post? To a tree? If leaving it in the field for an extended period, make sure you’ve got the materials to attach it safely and securely without damaging the environment.

8. Leave (Almost) No Trace

Beyond your FieldKit Station, be sure to clean up after yourself and leave the location as you found it, so take a trash bag. In the future, when you’ve completed your deployment and removed your FieldKit, it should be like you were never there!

9. Weather Forecasting and Extra Tools

Check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly. Bring a multitool with a screwdriver for last-minute adjustments in the field.

10. Take Care of Yourself!

Tell someone where you’re going, especially if it’s going to be remote. Respect nature—beware of rough terrain or dangerous animals. Read more on Safety in the Field here.