5.10.1 Rain Logger Communication Interface

The Rain Logger is compatible with Solinst Levelogger products. The Rain Logger is programmed and interrogated for data using Levelogger Software and is connected to a PC or Leveloader, handheld data transfer device, using the Leveloggers PC Interface Cable (Fig. 5 - 15). It is recommended that the PC Interface Cable be disconnected from the PC when not communicating with the Rain Logger to avoid potential activation of the Rain Logger when the serial port is initialized. The Rain Logger circuitry is electrically isolated from the serial port.

Rain Gauge Connector:

The rain gauge connected to the Rain Logger is supplied by the customer and is a reed-switch type gauge most commonly known as a tipping-bucket rain gauge. The rain gauge connector is 3-pin (Fig 5 -16) and connects to the 3-pin cable supplied with the Rain Logger. Longer cables up to 30m (100ft) can be supplied when the Logger is ordered. The connector cable has 3 wires, however only two, the blue and brown, wires are connected to the tipping bucket devise. As the tipping bucket is just an electrical circuit gate, it does not matter to which terminal on the tipping bucket the blue or brown wire is connected. There is no need for a ground or third wire since the Rain Logger is electrically isolated from any other system. Longer, exposed cables should be protected from rodents and vandalism by cable armoring or installation within electrical conduit.