Pole Mount Solar Sensor Interface Kit - Assembly Instructions
T2U's solar-powered sensor interface kit enables efficient data transfer and monitoring in remote locations, featuring an IP67 rated ABS enclosure, an LTE (4G) or LoRaWAN gateway, and an average power consumption of approximately 0.85W/h with a battery life of approximately 100 hours without sunlight.
Summary
T2U's cutting-edge 20W solar-powered sensor interface kit features an IP67 rated ABS enclosure and an LTE (4G) or LoRaWAN gateway. This system provides a direct communication link between various RS485/RS232 sensors and T2U's IoT platform, enabling efficient data transfer and monitoring in remote locations.
The system is a self-contained assembly, designed for ease of installation and versatility. It can be easily mounted to a 50mm (60.5mm outer diameter) signpost, a wooden post (square or round), or a 50mm galvanized RHS, depending on your specific needs. The enclosure is equipped with a 12V 7AH SLA battery, a solar charge controller, and requires no additional wiring, making it a hassle-free solution.
With an average power consumption of approximately 0.85W/h, depending on the sensors used, the system can provide a battery life of approximately 100 hours without sunlight. It is crucial to note that the 20W solar panel must generate at least 20.1W per day to sustain power, equivalent to one hour of full sunlight or 10 hours of 10% sunlight. Optimal placement of the solar panel is essential to accommodate consecutive days without sunlight and to prepare for worst-case scenarios.
In order to protect the battery from permanent damage, the system is equipped with a safety mechanism that will shut down if the battery voltage drops below 10.5V (10%). The system will automatically restart when the battery voltage reaches 13.0V.
Is is also fitted with a breather port to equalise pressure and provide some ventilation.
Prerequisites
- Our system is crafted to effortlessly fit onto a 50mm (60.5mm outer diameter) standard galvanized signpost (not supplied by T2U). Please ensure the signpost is securely in place prior to beginning the installation process.
- An active account on Telemetry2U is required to log in and verify successful data reception.
- A device or tool for measuring the tilt angle of the solar panel, such as a smartphone application.
- It is strongly recommended to perform a bench test with the final components and sensors before deployment.
Parts List
- Mounting Plate
- 20W Solar Panel Assembly with 1M Lead and Connector
- 280x280mm ABS IP67 Enclosure fitted with Connectors, Battery, Solar Controller and LTE/LoRaWAN Gateway
- 2x M10x25mm Galvanized Bolts
- 4x M10 Galvanized Flat Washers
- 2x M10 Galvanized Lock Nuts
- 12V 7AH SLA Battery (to be fitted to enclosure)
- 5x M5x12mm Pan Head Screws
- 5x M5 Flat Washers
- 5x M5 Spring Washers
- 2x 210mm of GBD Channel – Fitted
- 2 x P2041 Post Brackets
- 2x M12x100mm Galvanized Coach Screws
Required Tools
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- 10mm Socket
- 16mm Socket
- 16mm Ring Spanner
- 19mm Socket
Remove the Battery and Mount the enclosure to the backing plate
- In order to safeguard the battery during transportation, it is not installed prior to shipment. If a battery has been installed for testing purposes, it should be removed to ease the installation. To access the battery compartment, remove the cover by unscrewing the four Phillips head screws then disconnect and remove the battery from the enclosure.
- Close the enclosure lid and place it face down (lid down).
- Place the mounting plate over the enclosure with the folds facing down and the 4x mounting holes for the solar assembly towards the top of the enclosure (the connectors are at the bottom of the enclosure).
- Screw the plate to the enclosure using the supplied M5 bolts, spring washers and flat washers.
Fix the solar assembly to the mounting plate
To ensure optimal stability and strength, it is recommended to mount the solar panel in the lowest position of the three available options. This configuration may require tilting the solar panel in order to access the enclosure.
- Prior to installation, ensure that the arm of the solar assembly moves freely by loosening the clamping bolts as necessary.
- With the enclosure fixed to the mounting plate, align the solar assembly mounting arm over the designated holes on the plate, utilizing the solar panel to aid in positioning.
- Secure the solar assembly to the mounting plate using the provided M10 x 25mm galvanized bolts, flat washers, and lock nuts, utilizing both the highest and lowest mounting holes. Use of an M16 socket and ring spanner is recommended for proper tightening.
Mounting the assembly to the post
Secure the mounting plate to the top of the post in such a manner that allows the solar panel to tilt freely.
- Utilize the supplied P2041 brackets to fit the mounting plate to the 50m galvanised pole. This task may require two people.
- If attaching to a wooden post, utilize the provided M12 x 100mm galvanized coach screws.
Powering up the controller
To ensure optimal stability and strength, it is recommended to mount the solar panel in the lowest position of the three available options. This configuration may require tilting the solar panel in order to access the enclosure.
- Turn off the power switch.
- Position the solar panel to access the enclosure.
- Remove the four screws securing the battery cover with a Phillips head screwdriver.
- Install the battery and reattach the cover.
- Connect the battery leads (red to positive, black to negative).
- Place the Silica pack inside the enclosure to reduce humidity.
- Connect the solar panel lead to the bottom of the enclosure.
- Attach the sensor(s) to the bottom of the enclosure.
- Turn on the device with the push button switch and observe internal LED illumination on the solar controller and gateway.
- Wait several minutes for the LTE/LoRaWAN device to connect to T2U and send its first data record
- Verify connection and data receipt on the T2U reports page using the timestamp.
SETTING THE SOLAR PANEL TILT
To ensure optimal power performance, it is crucial to correctly set the solar panel tilt angle. In Australia, the optimal angle is typically equal to the location's latitude. For example, in Tasmania, this angle would be approximately 42.9 degrees.
- Verify that the enclosure is securely closed and latched.
- Adjust the solar panel to the precise angle using a suitable method, such as a smartphone application.
- Secure the panel in place by tightening the clamping bolts with a 16mm socket and ring spanner.
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