Internal Pressure Sensor; Pressure Sensor Maintenance - RD Instruments WorkHorse User Manual

WorkHorse Mariner ADCP User's Guide
10

Internal Pressure Sensor

If you have the optional pressure sensor installed in your ADCP, use the
AZ-command to zero out the pressure sensor at the deployment site.
a. Connect and apply power to the system as described in
13.
b. Start BBTalk and wakeup the ADCP (press the END key).
c. Type AZ and press the Return key.
d. Exit BBTalk.
10.1

Pressure Sensor Maintenance

In order to read the water pressure (depth), water must be able to flow
through the copper screw on the pressure sensor. Antifoulant paint will
block the sensor's port (a small hole that is drilled through the copper
screw). You should tape off the screw during anti-fouling paint application.
This means that the sensor port is not fully protected from bio fouling. The
sensor port is surrounded by the antifouling paint, but bio fouling may build
up on the screw, and eventually clog the sensor port. However, most organ-
isms do not seem to find the small amount of unpainted surface attractive.
If it is logistically possible to periodically inspect/clean the pressure sensor
screw, it is highly recommended. This tradeoff situation must be analyzed
for individual deployments. Unfortunately, the location of the deployment
site usually dictates action in this regard.
NOTE. The pressure sensor is optional. It may not be included on your
system.
CAUTION.
The pressure sensor is filled with silicone oil. Never poke a needle or other
object through the copper screw while the screw is installed over the
pressure sensor. You will perforate the sensor, causing it to fail.
Do not remove the cover disc or attempt to clean the surface of the
pressure sensor. The diaphragm is very thin and easy to damage.
Do not remove the pressure sensor. It is not field replaceable.
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Figure 9, page
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