10 troubleshooting, Inspect the buoy, Check the power – In-Situ Aquaculture Buoy Manual (purchased after 28 May 2013) User Manual

Page 40: Checking the communication, Troubleshooting

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40

Troubleshooting

Inspect the Buoy

If you suspect that something has malfunctioned in the buoy, pull the buoy from the
pond and inspect the following items.

l

Probe and brush—Make sure that there is no biofouling, feed, or mud interfering
with the operation of these parts.

l

Brush motor—Make sure that the brush did not become tangled in algae or other
material and burn out the motor.

l

Chlorine tablet—Replace as needed.

l

Brush shaft—Make sure that the shaft is not damaged.

Check the Power

The system will not work if the solar-powered battery charge falls below 7 volts. Check
the voltage to the following items to make sure that they are operational.

l

Solar panel

l

Voltage regulator

l

Battery

Also, check all wiring connections to make sure they are secure.

Checking the Communication

A black zero indicates an oxygen sensor problem. The sensor is not sending a signal to
the microprocessor and the probe needs to be serviced.

A red zero oxygen reading on the computer screen indicates a lack of communication
between the buoy and the host computer. Check the power as described in the
previous section.

Ensure that the radio module is firmly in place on the board and that the antenna is
properly connected. Test the radio by swapping it out with a radio from another buoy
that is working properly.

If the power is connected, inspect the transceiver for power.

1. Remove the housing cover.

2. Check the power input terminal in the lower-right corner. You should measure 11 to

14 volts DC at this connector.

3. If voltage is low, charge or replace the battery. Check the solar panel and charge

controller for damage.

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