Appendix E. Troubleshooting - Geokon GeoNet 8800 Series Instruction Manual

APPENDIX E. TROUBLESHOOTING
Listed below are a few commonly experienced problems and remedial action.
These topics are also covered in the Troubleshooting GeoNet Networks and
Agent Software Tutorial, and the GeoNet Troubleshooting Guide, both of
which are available at
GEOKON
if additional assistance is needed.
GEOKON
SYMPTOM: UNIT WILL NOT RESPOND TO COMMUNICATIONS
□
Wrong connection type, or incorrect address specified in Agent software.
□
The batteries may be improperly installed. Check their placement.
□
The batteries inside the supervisor may be dead. Replace the batteries.
SYMPTOM: DATA PRESENT (E.G., BATTERY/SIGNAL STRENGTH) BUT
NO VW SENSOR DATA AVAILABLE
□
Verify that the gauge leads are wired correctly inside the node. Refer to the
sensor manual for wiring information.
□
Check the sensor for proper operation with an independent readout, such as
a GK-404 or GK-405. Sensor operation can also be checked by using an
ohmmeter to measure the resistance between the VW gauge leads. Very
high (megohms) or infinite resistance may indicate cable damage, very low
resistance (<20Ω) may indicate a short between conductors.
□
For long cables, cable resistance can be added at approximately 14.7Ω per
1000 ft (48.5Ω per km) at 20 °C. Multiply this factor by two to account for
both directions.
SYMPTOM: VW GAUGE READING IS UNSTABLE
□
Move any sources of electrical noise away from the transducer cable, such
as generators, motors, arc welding equipment, high voltage lines, etc.
SYMPTOM: THERMISTOR DISPLAY SHOWS -273.15 DEGREES C°
□
This indicates an open circuit to thermistor leads. Verify that the thermistor
leads are properly connected inside the node. Refer to the sensor manual
for wiring information.
□
Check the thermistor for proper operation by using an ohmmeter to
measure the resistance between the thermistor leads. Resistance should be
between 10KΩ and 2.4KΩ when the ambient temperature is between 0 and
+30 °C. Appendix D details the resistance versus temperature relationship.
Very high or infinite resistance may indicate cable damage, very low
resistance may indicate a short between conductors
SYMPTOM: NODE HAS WEAK COMMUNICATION
□
If the signal is consistently weak (indicated by red and green LEDs
illuminated at the same time) but not intermittently red, proceed with the
installation. If the signal is frequently lost (red flash) it will be necessary to
improve it. Try to get the node as high as possible, with plenty of clear
space around the antenna. Extending the sensor cable may enable moving
the node to a better location. If the signal does not improve, a higher gain
directional antenna may be necessary. Contact
SYMPTOM: NODE DOES NOT HAVE POWER
□
Ensure that the polarity of the batteries matches the diagram on the battery
holder.
MODEL 8800 SERIES GEONET WIRELESS DATA ACQUISITION NETWORK | TROUBLESHOOTING | 29
's website, https://www.geokon.com. Contact
GEOKON
for assistance.