YSI Level Scout - Manual (Page 10)

8 Level Scout YSI Incorporated
2.4 INTERNAL CLOCK SYNCHRONIZATION
When received from the YSI, the Level Scout’s internal clock will be set to Eastern Standard Time. The internal clock can be quickly
and easily synchronized to the local time using the Data Scout Advanced date/time synchronize function as explained in section 3.3
and 4.2 of this manual.
2.5 GENERAL FIELD INSTALLATION
The cable assembly for the Level Scout was shipped with a cable hanger pre-installed. This cable hanger provides a simple method to
secure the cable at the top of the installation.
Always carefully lower the transducer into the liquid, penetrating the liquid surface slowly. Avoid dropping the unit into the water as
the sudden impact with the water surface can permanently damage the transducer.
The Level Scout is calibrated for operation in a vertical, upright position with the cable extending up. Although it may be operated
in any orientation, anything other than this vertical position will result in a slight zero offset in the measured data. If the transducer
will be operated in a known, non-vertical orientation this zero offset error may be easily calibrated out as described in section 4.5.
Note that the threaded hole on the end of the Level Scout closed-face nose piece offers a convenient method to attach a weight to
help ensure vertical orientation. However, avoid inserting any foreign object into this hole that may damage the sensitive
diaphragm the nose cone is protecting.
2.6 DESICCANT FILTER
Field cables have an in-line vent filter that do not require replacement. It is designed to provide the vent tube lifetime protection
from moisture migration.
The universal field cable (older style cable) is shipped with a desiccant filter installed on the end of the vent tube. When installing the
Level Scout, ensure a desiccant filter is attached to the cable vent tube. Failure to use a desiccant could result in moisture migration
down the cable vent tube. This can cause measurement offset errors (from water drops in the vent tube) or premature failure of the
transducer, which would not be covered by warranty. When using the desiccant filter, remember to remove the filter’s protective
cap prior to collecting data. This will allow air into the desiccant filter. The vent filter is designed to last for at least one (1) year in
humid conditions before needing replacement.
When using the universal cable assembly with an absolute pressure Level Scout, the vent tube must still be protected from moisture
migration but it is not critical for air to flow through the vent tube. In this situation the protective cap may be left on the desiccant
filter or alternately the vent tube may be capped to minimize maintenance requirements.
When using the desiccant filter, ensure a proper maintenance/replacement schedule is followed as described in section 4.6 of this
manual.
2.7 CABLE PROTECTION
When working with the transducer cable, such as when lowering the transducer into a well, make sure the cable does not drag over
sharp edges which could nick or cut the cable outer jacket. A cut in the outer jacket will provide a path for water to migrate into the
transducer electronics causing permanent damage.
The field cables are quite flexible. Care needs to be taken to ensure that when bending the cable to suit the installation, the vent tube
does not become crimped inside the cable. To avoid this crimping, do not bend the cable tighter than a radius of 1 inch.
Many users require a compression fitting or strain relief to secure the cable as it enters a junction box. Care needs to be taken that
the fitting is not over-tightened to the extent that it damages the cable or crushes the internal vent tube.
Crimping the vent tube from tight bends or crushing can result in measurement offset errors since the reference pressure port of the
Level Scout’s internal transducer would be blocked. This will prevent the reference from ‘breathing’ as a result of atmospheric or
temperature related pressure changes.