Installation; Mounting The Multi-Channel Node; Lightning Protection; Connecting Sensors - Geokon GeoNet 8800 Series Instruction Manual

14 | GEONET MULTI-CHANNEL NODES | GEOKON

4.1 INSTALLATION

Multi-channel sensor nodes function in the same manner as other nodes, and
can be installed using the previous sections in the manual. However, the
following information should be useful for installing these nodes.

4.1.1 MOUNTING THE MULTI-CHANNEL NODE

The MCN must be mounted vertically, so that the antenna points up (as shown
in Figure 19 above). Attach the MCN to the mounting surface using the MCN's
mounting plate. Mounting hardware is available for purchase from

4.1.2 LIGHTNING PROTECTION

Each vibrating wire (VW) channel is protected by a 230V gas discharge tube,
followed by a high-speed surge protector and a transient voltage suppression
diode. Each thermistor (TH) channel is protected by a 230V gas discharge tube,
followed by an inductor (lower resistance than high-speed surge protectors) and
a transient voltage suppression diode.
For these components to safely divert lightning energy to ground, a solid
electrical connection to earth ground is required. A copper grounding rod at
least six feet in length should be driven into the soil to a minimum depth of three
feet, as close to the MCN as possible. Alternatively, any other suitable earth
ground attachment may be used. Connect the grounding rod to the copper
grounding lug on the exterior of the MCN (see Figure 20 above) with a 12 AWG
or larger wire. This will provide a suitable path from the MCN to earth ground in
the event of a lightning strike.

4.2 CONNECTING SENSORS

4.2.1 CABLE GLAND MODELS (–CBL)
1. Open the MCN by loosening the four captive screws on the front of the
enclosure and removing the lid. Ensure that no dirt, water, or other
contaminants enter the enclosure.

FIGURE 21: Multi-Channel Node Interior

2. Loosen the cable gland nuts and remove the white plastic dowels. To
prevent contaminants from entering the enclosure, do not remove the
dowels from cable fittings that will not be used.
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GEOKON
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