SonTek/YSI Argonaut-XR Technical Manual - HydroScientific West

SonTek/YSI
as good as with the traditional wave sampling schemes. All that is needed is to average spectral
estimates from consecutive samples down to the 4-6 hour traditional interval. This process is
almost equivalent to segmentation except for the lack of overlapping between sampling intervals,
and the fact that the spectra is "averaged" over the 4-6 hour period instead of spot sampled for
only 20 minutes.
8.3. Argonaut External Sensors
The Argonaut can include several externally mounted, integrated sensors (the sensors connect to
the Argonaut using special interface cables). The most commonly integrated sensor is the
SeaBird MicroCat CTD. A range of other sensors (OBS, transmissometer, conductivity, etc.) can
be integrated using analog output voltages. Depending on the type of sensor, it may receive input
power from the Argonaut or it may use a separate power supply. For details on available sensors
and configurations, contact SonTek.
8.3.1. SeaBird MicroCat CTD
The SeaBird MicroCat CTD with RS232 serial interface provides high quality conductivity,
temperature, salinity, and pressure (optional) data. When integrated with the Argonaut, the
MicroCat is sampled at the beginning of each averaging interval. Data are integrated in a CTD
data structure within each Argonaut profile.
CTD Commands
Described below are commands necessary to setup the Argonaut for acquiring the CTD data. In
normal operation, all commands to the optional external CTD sensor are sent automatically and
no direct commands need to be sent. The commands in this section are provided to assist in
diagnosing problems and to give greater flexibility in Argonaut operations.
H CTD
• Displays help on external CTD sensor commands.
CTD
• Displays most recent temperature (°C), conductivity (Siemens per meter), pressure
(decibar), and salinity (ppt) data from the external CTD sensor
• Data are output in a self-explanatory, ASCII-text format.
CTD CONT
• Continually displays temperature (°C), conductivity (Siemens per meter), pressure
(decibar), and salinity (ppt) data from the external CTD sensor
• Data are output in a self-explanatory, ASCII-text format.
• Press any key to stop data output and return to command mode.
CTD Talk
• Establishes direct serial communication with the external CTD.
• A manual for the CTD sensor is included; see this manual for details on direct commands
to the CTD.
• To return to command mode, type “+++” or send a BREAK to the Argonaut.
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Argonaut Operation Manual Firmware Version 7.9 (May 1, 2001)