apogee INSTRUMENTS AT-100 microCache Logger Owner’s Manual

INSTRUMENTS

OWNER’S MANUAL
µCACHE
Rev: 4-Feb-2021

APOGEE INSTRUMENTS, INC. | 721 WEST 1800 NORTH, LOGAN, UTAH 84321, USA TEL: 435-792-4700 | FAX: 435-787-8268 |
WEB:  POGEEINSTRUMENTS.COM
Copyright © 2021 Apogee Instruments, Inc.

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE

EU Declaration of Conformity
This declaration of conformity is issued under the sole responsibility of the manufacturer:
Apogee Instruments, Inc.
721 W 1800 N
Logan, Utah 84321
USA
for the following product(s): Models: µCache
Type: Bluetooth® Memory Module
Bluetooth SIG Declaration ID: D048051
The object of the declarations described above is in conformity with the relevant Union harmonization legislation:

Standards referenced during compliance assessment:

EN 61326-1:2013 Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use – EMC requirements
EN 50581:2012 Technical documentation for the assessment of electrical and electronic products with respect to the restriction of hazardous substances
Please be advised that based on the information available to us from our raw material suppliers, the products manufactured by us do not contain, as intentional additives, any of the restricted materials including lead (see note below), mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls (PBB), polybrominated diphenyl (PBDE), bis(2-Ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP). However, please note that articles containing greater than 0.1% lead concentration are RoHS 3 compliant using exemption 6c.

Further note that Apogee Instruments does not specifically run any analysis on our raw materials or end products for the presence of these substances, but rely on the information provided to us by our material suppliers.

Signed for and on behalf of:
Apogee Instruments, February 2021

Bruce Bugbee
President
Apogee Instruments, Inc.

INTRODUCTION

The µCache AT-100 makes precision environmental measurements using Apogee’s analog sensors. The measurements are sent wirelessly to a mobile device via Bluetooth®. The Apogee Connect mobile app interfaces with the µCache to collect, display, and export data.
The µCache has an M8 connector that is used to connect to an analog sensor. For a list of currently supported sensors, please click here https://www.apogeeinstruments.com/microcache-bluetooth-memory-module/.
The µCache app includes manual and automatic data logging features and can also make live data measurements when connected to a mobile device. The mobile app displays the data and allows the user to record samples in the app and download and export them.
Data logging is set up in sampling and logging intervals. A connection via Bluetooth® with the mobile app is required to configure and collect data, but the µCache makes and stores measurements without a Bluetooth® connection. The µCache has a large memory capacity of ~400,000 entries or ~9 months of 1-minute data.
The µCache is powered by a 2/3 AA battery. Battery life is highly dependent on the average daily time connected over Bluetooth® and the sampling interval.
The µCache housing has a button and LED to manage Bluetooth® connectivity and provide visual status feedback.

SENSOR MODELS

This manual covers the Apogee µCache (model number AT-100).

The sensor model number and serial number are located on the back of the µCache unit. If you need the manufacturing date of your µCache, please contact Apogee Instruments with the serial number of your µCache.

SPECIFICATIONS

µCache

Sampling Interval: ≥ 1 second
Data Logging Capability Over 400,000 Entries (~9 months at a 1-minute logging interval)
Data Log Capacity| ± 30 seconds per month at 0° C ~ 70° C
Time Accuracy| 2/3 AA 3.6 Volt Lithium Battery
sampling interval and an average of 5 min
Battery Type| ~1-year w/ 10-second sampling interval and an average of 5 minutes daily connected time
Battery Life*| ~2 years w/ 60-second sampling interval and an average of 5 minutes daily connected time
~~Operating Environment| -40 to 85 C
Dimensions| 66 mm length, 50 mm width, 18 mm height
Weight| 52 g
IP Rating| IP67
Connector Type| M8
ADC Resolution| 24 bits

• Battery Life is primarily impacted by sampling interval and amount of time connected to a mobile app.

QUICK START GUIDE

Quick Start Guide

1.  Download Apogee Connect from the App Store or Google Play store
2. Open App and hit the “+”
3. Press the green button on the µCache unit and hold for 3 seconds
4. When µCache is recognized in the app, click on its name “uc###”
5. Select the sensor model you are connecting
6. Calibration: If directed to enter a custom calibration number, refer to the calibration sheet that came with the sensor. If the calibration number is already filled in, do not change this number
7. . Click “Add”
8. Your sensor is now added and reading in real-time

Further Instructions

Bluetooth® Connection
1. Open the Apogee Connect mobile app.
To add a µCache to the app for the first time, tap on the + icon in the upper
corner.
2. A 1-second button press on the µCachewill make it discoverable by the app for 30 seconds. The µCache light will start blinking blue, and the device name will show up on the screen. Tap on the devname (e.g., “micro cache 1087”) to connect to the µCache.
3. Select your sensor model, and specify custom calibration factors if necessary.
You can also rename the µCache you want. Hit ENTER.
4. Your µCache is now shown on the app main display with live readings. Click on the µCache to see graphical output & sup logging
5. Subsequent connections can be made ba 1-second press on the µCache and it will automatically connect. | LED Status Indication A 1-second button press gives a status indication of the µCache
with the following LED blinks:
(white)
Not Connected, Not Data Logging, Good Battery
Connected
Data Logging Active
Low Battery
Critically Low Battery
(blue)
(green)
(red)
A 10-second button press turns to log on and off:
Data Logging On Data Logging Off

---|---
Please note: If logging is enabled, the µCache does not automatically turn off when the µCache is not in use (e.g., the sensor is disconnected). To turn off the µCache, disable logging through the app while connected, or do a 10-second button press. Three white flashes mean logging is disabled and the µCache is off.| A 10-second button press turns to log on and off:
Discoverable
(Blinks every two seconds for up to 30 seconds. Connected (Three quick blinks when a connection is established.)

Logging Instructions

Begin Logging

1. Click on the “Settings” gear icon
2. Scroll down and toggle on the “Logging Enabled” button
3. Set the Logging interval (this determines how often a data point is recorded)
4. Set the Sampling interval (this determines how many readings are averaged to create the data point referred to in step 3) a. Note: Shorter logging and sampling
intervals can reduce battery life. Faster sampling intervals have the most effect. For example, 15-minute logging with 5-minute sampling is adequate for most
greenhouse lighting applications and the battery life is approx. a year. One
second sampling can shorten the battery life to approx. one week
5. Click the green Save button
6. Scroll down to the bottom and hit Match CurrenTime

| Collect Logs

1. If disconnected, reconnect the µCache by pressing the green button for 3 seconds
2. Click on the “Collect Logs” icon
3. Select “Append to existing” to add to an existing dataset already on your phone, or “Create New” to start creating a new data set
4. Confirm Start and End date match the range of data you want to download
5. Click “Collect Logs”
6. Once all the Logs are collected, the graphs will automatically fill in on the dashboard. Data sets are also available to export from your phone via email, etc.

---|---
Live Data Averaging
For use in live meter mode. Live data averaging smooths out fluctuations in the sensor signal. This is particularly useful for Quantum Light Pollution sensors
(SQ-640 series) and other sensors that detect subtle trends.| Dark Threshold
The dark threshold is the amount of light accepted before the dark section of the photoperiod is considered disrupted. This is useful for measuring photoperiods,
especially with light-sensitive plants.

Included in the µCache packages
All AT-100’s come with a µCache unit, a battery, and a complimentary sensor base.
Instructional Videos on using the Apogee Connect App

https://www.apogeeinstruments.com/apogee-microcache-support/#videos

CABLE CONNECTORS

The ruggedized M8 connectors are rated IP68, made of corrosion-resistant marine-grade stainless-steel, and designed for extended use in harsh environmental conditions.

The µCache has an M8 connector that is used to connect to an analog sensor.

Instructions
Pins and Wiring Colors: All Apogee connectors have six pins, but not all pins are used for every sensor. There may also be unused wire colors inside the cable. To simplify the datalogger connection, we remove the unused pigtail lead colors at the datalogger end of the cable.

A reference notch inside the connector ensures proper alignment before tightening.
If a replacement cable is required, please contact Apogee directly to ensure ordering the proper pigtail configuration.
Alignment: When reconnecting the sensor, arrows on the connector jacket and an aligning notch ensure proper orientation.

When sending sensors in for calibration, only send the short end of the cable and half the connector.

Disconnection for extended periods: When disconnecting the sensor for an extended period of time from a µCache, protect the remaining half of the connector still on the µCache from water and dirt with electrical tape or another method.
Tightening: Connectors are designed to be firmly finger-tightened only. There is an O-ring inside the connector that can be overly compressed if a wrench is used. Pay attention to thread alignment to avoid cross-threading. When fully tightened, 1-2 threads may still be visible.

WARNING: Do not tighten the connector by twisting the black cable or sensor head, only twist the metal connector (blue arrows).

Finger-tighten firmly

DEPLOYMENT AND INSTALLATION

Apogee µCache Bluetooth® Memory Modules (model AT-100) are designed to work with Apogee analog sensors and the Apogee Connect mobile app for spot-check measurements and through the built-in logging feature. To accurately measure incoming radiation, the sensor must be level. For this purpose, each sensor model comes with
a different option for mounting the sensor to a horizontal plane.

The AL-100 leveling plate is recommended for most sensors. To facilitate mounting to a cross arm, the AM-110 mounting bracket is recommended for use with the AL-100. (AL100 leveling plate pictured)

The AM-320 Saltwater Submersible Sensor Wand accessory incorporates a mounting fixture at the end of a 40-inch segmented fiberglass wand and is well-suited for saltwater use. The wand allows the user to place the sensor in hard-reach areas such as aquariums. While sensors are fully-potted and fully submersible, the µCache should not be submerged and should be kept in a safe, dry place.AM-320 Saltwater Submersible
Sensor Wand

Please Note: Do not let the µCache dangle.

MAINTENANCE AND RECALIBRATION

µCache Maintenance
Make sure that the latest version of the software is installed for the mobile app and the latest version of firmware is installed on the µCache. Use the app store for your operating system to confirm that you are using the latest version of Apogee Connect. The firmware version can be checked in the Settings page in the app while connected to the µCache.
The µCache unit should be kept clean and free of debris.
If the housing is opened for any reason, extra care should be taken to ensure that the gasket and seating are clean and the interior stays free of moisture. The screws must be tightened until firm to create a weather-tight seal.

Steps to Replace the µCache Battery

1.  Use a Philips screwdriver to remove the screws from the battery cover.
2. Remove the battery cover.
3.  Remove the used battery.
4. Place a fresh battery in its place aligning the positive terminal with the + label on the board.
5. Make sure the gasket and seating are clean.
6.  Replace the battery cover.
7.  Use a Philips screwdriver to replace the screws.

Sensor Maintenance and Recalibration
Moisture or debris on the diffuser is a common cause of low readings. The sensor has a domed diffuser and housing for improved self-cleaning from rainfall, but materials can accumulate on the diffuser (e.g., dust during periods of low rainfall, salt deposits from the evaporation of sea spray or sprinkler irrigation water) and partially block the optical path. Dust or organic deposits are best removed using water or window cleaner and a soft cloth or cotton swab. Salt deposits should be dissolved with vinegar and removed with a soft cloth or cotton swab. Never use an abrasive material or cleaner on the diffuser.
Although Apogee sensors are very stable, nominal accuracy drift is normal for all research-grade sensors. To ensure maximum accuracy, we generally recommend sensors are sent in for recalibration every two years, although you can often wait longer according to your particular tolerances.
See individual sensor product manuals for more sensor-specific maintenance and recalibration information.

TROUBLESHOOTING AND CUSTOMER SUPPORT

Cable Length
When the sensor is connected to a measurement device with high input impedance, sensor output signals are not changed by shortening the cable or splicing on an additional cable in the field. Tests have shown that if the input impedance of the measurement device is greater than 1 mega-ohm there is negligible effect on the calibration,
even after adding up to 100 m of cable. All Apogee sensors use shielded, twisted-pair cables to minimize electromagnetic interference. For best measurements, the shield wire must be connected to the earth’s ground. This is particularly important when using the sensor with long lead lengths in electromagnetically noisy environments.
Modifying Cable Length
See Apogee webpage for details on how to extend sensor cable length:
(http://www.apogeeinstruments.com/how-to-make-a-weatherproof-cable-splice/).
FAQs
See Apogee FAQ webpage for more troubleshooting support:
https://www.apogeeinstruments.com/microcache-bluetooth-micro-logger-faqs/

RETURN AND WARRANTY POLICY

RETURN POLICY
Apogee Instruments will accept returns within 30 days of purchase as long as the product is in new condition (to be determined by Apogee). Returns are subject to a 10 % restocking fee.
WARRANTY POLICY
What is Covered
All products manufactured by Apogee Instruments are warranted to be free from defects in materials and craftsmanship for a period of four (4) years from the date of shipment from our factory. To be considered for warranty coverage an item must be evaluated by Apogee. Products not manufactured by Apogee (spectroradiometers, chlorophyll content meters, EE08-SS probes) are covered for a period of one (1) year.
What is Not Covered
The customer is responsible for all costs associated with the removal, reinstallation, and shipping of suspected warranty items to our factory.
The warranty does not cover equipment that has been damaged due to the following conditions:

1. Improper installation or abuse.
2. Operation of the instrument outside of its specified operating range.
3. Natural occurrences such as lightning, fire, etc.
4. Unauthorized modification.
5.  Improper or unauthorized repair. Please note that nominal accuracy drift is normal over time. Routine recalibration of sensors/meters is considered part o proper maintenance and is not covered under warranty.
   Who is Covered
   This warranty covers the original purchaser of the product or other party who may own it during the warranty period.
   What Apogee Will Do
   At no charge Apogee will:
   1. Either repair or replace (at our discretion) the item under warranty.
   2. Ship the item back to the customer by the carrier of our choice.
   Different or expedited shipping methods will be at the customer’s expense.
   How To Return An Item
   1. Please do not send any products back to Apogee Instruments until you have received a Return Merchandise

Authorization (RMA) number from our technical support department by submitting an online RMA form at
www.apogeeinstruments.com/tech-support-recalibration- repairs/. We will use your RMA number for tracking of the service item. Call 435-245-8012 or email techsupport@apogeeinstruments.com with questions. 2. For warranty evaluations, send all RMA sensors and meters back in the following condition: Clean the sensor’s exterior
and cord. Do not modify the sensors or wires, including splicing, cutting wire leads, etc. If a connector has been attached to the cable end, please include the mating connector – otherwise, the sensor connector will be removed in order to complete the repair/recalibration. Note: When sending back sensors for routine calibration that have Apogee’s standard stainless-steel connectors, you only need to send the sensor with the 30 cm section of cable and one-half of the connector. We have mating connectors at our factory that can be used for calibrating the sensor.
3. Please write the RMA number on the outside of the shipping container.
4. Return the item with freight pre-paid and fully insured to our factory address shown below. We are not responsible for any costs associated with the transportation of products across international borders.
Apogee Instruments, Inc.
721 West 1800 North Logan, UT
84321, USA
5. Upon receipt, Apogee Instruments will determine the cause of failure. If the product is found to be defective in terms of operation to the published specifications due to a failure of product materials or craftsmanship, Apogee Instruments will repair or replace the items free of charge. If it is determined that your product is not covered under warranty, you will be informed and given an estimated repair/replacement cost.
PRODUCTS BEYOND THE WARRANTY PERIOD
For issues with sensors beyond the warranty period, please contact Apogee at techsupport@apogeeinstruments.com to discuss repair or replacement options.
OTHER TERMS
The available remedy of defects under this warranty is for the repair or replacement of the original product, and Apogee Instruments is not responsible for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, including but not limited to loss of income, loss of revenue, loss of profit, loss of data, loss of wages, loss of time, loss of sales, accruement of debts or expenses, injury to personal property, or injury to any person or any other type of damage or loss.
This limited warranty and any disputes arising out of or in connection with this limited warranty (“Disputes”) shall be governed by the laws of the State of Utah, USA, excluding conflicts of law principles and excluding the Convention for the International Sale of Goods. The courts located in the State of Utah, USA, shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any Disputes.
This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state and jurisdiction to jurisdiction, and which shall not be affected by this limited warranty. This warranty extends only to you and cannot by transferred or assigned. If any provision of this limited warranty is unlawful, void or unenforceable, that provision shall be deemed severable and shall not affect any remaining provisions. In case of any inconsistency between the English and other versions of this limited warranty, the English version shall prevail.
This warranty cannot be changed, assumed, or amended by any other person or agreement
APOGEE INSTRUMENTS, INC. | 721 WEST 1800 NORTH, LOGAN, UTAH 84321, USA
TEL: 435-792-4700 | FAX: 435-787-8268 | WEB: APOGEEINSTRUMENTS.COM
Copyright © 2021 Apogee Instruments, Inc.

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