HOMS COMPONENT

DATA COLLECTION AND TRANSMISSION SYSTEM

1.   Purpose and objectives

     The HYDROSENS Data Processing System is designed for the collection, storage and ransmission of measured values in the field of hydrology and meteorology in remote areas. The future-oriented system combines powerful features in datalogging and data transmission with simple and modular
system architecture. It is compatible with different sensor and communication technologies of various manufacturers. HYDROSENS is the tailored-made solution for each budget and applications - from
single-manned monitoring stations to complete measuring networks. 

2.   Description

     Up to 120 measuring sensors connected to the system are interrogated at adjustable time intervals (sample and storage intervals between 10 seconds and 24 hours, delta-log capability, alarm management, etc.) and the measured values, together with time, are stored in a rollover-type RAM
memory (128 KB up to 1 MB).

     The measuring station can be connected either to the public telephone network by means of a serial modem /GSM or to satellite systems (Meteosat,Goes, Inmarsat, etc.), radio, or dedicated line, offering the possibility to have the measured values called by a central station (computer/PC) automatically. Additional communication setup can be done at site via optical interface (infrared technology) using an IBM-compatible notebook or the Multifunctional Field Unit VOTA from OTT MESSTECHNIK.

     Measured values and system parameters can directly be displayed by a liquid-crystal display. If required, the measured values can be pre-processed at the measuring station. Such a pre-processing provides averaging of data, supervision of minimum/maximum values, as well as scaling of data. Since the whole system is controlled by microprocessors, it is very flexible and suitable to meet quite different technical requirements and applications.

3.   Input

     Standard input cards for all common sensor types of different manufacturers (analogue, 4..20 mA. SDI12, 1..5V, Impuls, mV, digital, RS232, RS485, etc.). One station comprises from 1 up to 120 different sensor inputs, connected together via CAN-BUS (two wires).
 

4.   Output

     The system provides different, galvanically separated measuring signals via different output cards for further processing in an external system. Different output cards can be chosen, for example:, 4..20 mA. 1.5V, digital, RS232, etc. The output signals are used for automatic flood warning. Additionally, it is possible to attach a measured value announcer to the data logger.

5.   Operational requirements and restrictions

     The equipment must be set up in protection housing.  The low power consumption allows 12 V DC power supplies by a rechargeable battery, solar supply or mains. The compact HYDROSENS housing with integral LC-Display and a key path for in-situ parameterisation accommodates different HYDROSENS components and allows easy operation.

6.   Form of presentation

     Equipment with pamphlet and operating instructions in German, English,French, and partially in Spanish. See www.ott-hydrometry.de for further information.

7.   Operational experience

     HYDROSENS has been installed in many sites in Germany, other parts of Europe as well as in several other countries of the world, e.g.:

     1. MoWaFo Pretoria, South Africa: approximately 400 field stations,used primarily for water level,         temperature, conductivity and partially for precipitation acquisition (flood forecast measuring         network). 

     2. Bundesanstalt für Gewässerkunde, Koblenz: approximately 200 field stations, used primarily for         acquisition of water-level values, temperature, precipitation and other water quality and/or 
        meteorological parameters.

     3. MWR Sultanate of Oman: approximately 45 rainfall stations and wadi stations.

8.   Originator and technical support

     OTT MESSTECHNIK GMBH & CO.KG - Germany, PO Box 2140, D-87411 Kempten, Germany. Web page:www.ott-hydrometry.de

9.   Availability

     From the HOMS National Reference Centre for the Federal Republic of Germany.

10.  Conditions on use

     Informative material is available free of charge. Instrument is for sale.

Last updated: 3 JUN 99)
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