* 21 - Analog inputs (single ended)
* 7- Analog input (differential)
* 2 - 16 bit parallel digital inputs
* 1 - 3 or 4 digit encoder inputs
* 1 - 8 bit wind direction (45B or 77C)
* 6 - event inputs
* 1 - wind speed (45B or 77C)
* 2 - 500mA switched power strobes
* 1 - 1000mA switched power strobe
* 4 - individual voltage references
* 2 - SDI-12 ports
* Telephone interface
* Data archiving
* Goes/Argos satellite communications capability
* Rugged Nema packaging
* -40C to +50C
* 2 - RS-232C ports with:
         - 256K EPROM (expandable)
       -  32K RAM (expandable)
         - user friendly real-time software and a
            terminal strip

Valcom has added a fifth generation to its family of data collection systems with addition of the hydro-met Data Collection System (DCS).

The system is designed to be a low power, reliable, small size DCS capable of being interfaced with a variety of common sensors. A quick review of the list of hydro-met features highlights the fact that the system is capable of handling the majority of user needs in a cost effective fashion.

With the availability of future sensor expansion, a DCS installed now can be moved in the field or reconfigured at some future date. The wide range of standard sensors which can be directly interfaced to the DCS include:

• temperature

• relative humidity

• battery voltage and internal temperature

• up to four other analog sensors inputs, such as:

• nitrogen tank pressure for service manometers
• ice conductivity
• solar isolation cells
• pH or other similar water quality sensor, etc.

• up to two separate Memomark or equivalent 16 bit water level encoders
• a three or four digit input port for use with Baldwin type shaft encoders
• one 8 bit parallel digital channel free for future applications
• six event inputs for tipping bucket rain gauge, lightning detectors, ice-out detector, intrusion alarm, emergency signal generator, etc.
• six event inputs for tipping bucket rain gauge, lightning detectors, ice-out detector, intrusion alarm, emergency signal generator, etc.
• one dedicated 8 bit channel for use with either 45B or 77C type AES anemometers

The new hydro-met DCS is also over 50% smaller in size than the last generation. At the same time the standard on-board operation memory has been increased to 256K of EPROM and 32K of RAM.

Field servicing has been greatly simplified through the introduction of a detachable and interchangeable terminal strip. The terminal strip is an integral part of the DCS access cover. Once all sensors, etc have been wired in the terminal strip, they need never be disconnected except for replacement. If the DCS needs to be cycled for maintenance work, the internal umbilical is disconnected from the access cover and the replacement DCS and its umbilical can then be connected to the access cover.

The hydro-met DCS represents a highly reliable, multi-disciplinary hardware and software system.

Sensors

The hydro-met DCS has been developed with the user in mind. The system is easy to program and operate, and it interfaces with virtually all normally used sensors for hydrological or meteorological applications. Standard on-board software will accommodate sensors such as: 45B or 77C anemometers, servomanometer water level sensors, relative humidity sensors, thermistors, ADR's with encoders or analog voltage output or tipping bucket precipitation sensors, lightning detector, ice-out sensor, intrusion alarm, nitrogen tank pressure sensor, snow pillows, solar radiation and dew point.

Realizing that sensor technology is ever changing, the hydro-met DCS has sufficient capacity in all standard analog, event and digital input channels to accommodate new sensors requiring any of the three standard reference voltages or 8, 12, or 16 bit parallel digital inputs.

Programming

The hydro-met DCS takes advantage of a new user friendly software package which allows a fleld technician to program and initiate operation using a one page check list. The on-board DCS software provides operational prompts which guide the operator through the programming sequence. The operator is protected from entering invalid programming. The communication port is designed to use a variety of RS-232C compatible terminals.

Valcom Consulting Group Inc. offers a full range of services wlth its DCS systems, ranging from system design through manufacturing, maintenance and field installation.

- NEMA 4X molded fiberglass polyester enclosure  with 2 lockable quick-release latches and 4 mounting feet
- 30.5 cmx 25.4 cmx 15.2cm (12"xlO"x6")
- Internally coated for EMI/RFI shielding