INW LevelSCOUT Instructions Manual

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INW LevelSCOUT

Level/Temperature
Smart Sensor and Datalogger

For Sales & Service Contact

2650 E. 40th Ave. • Denver, CO 80205
Phone 303-320-4764 • Fax 303-322-7242

1-800-833-7958

www.geotechenv.com

USA

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PROUDLY
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9001:2008

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

©1997 - 2016 Seametrics. All rights reserved. INW is a Division of Seametrics.
Registered trademarks and trademarks belong to their respective owners.
Seametrics • 253.872.0284

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Introduction ......................................................................................................................................4
What is the LevelSCOUT?......................................................................................................................4
Initial Inspection and Handling...........................................................................................................4
Do’s and Don’ts..........................................................................................................................................4
How Pressure/Level Sensors Work.....................................................................................................5

Installation and Operation...........................................................................................................6
Power.............................................................................................................................................................6
Connecting the LevelSCOUT to a Computer.................................................................................6
Installing the Aqua4Plus Lite or Aqua4Plus Software.................................................................6
Installing the Sensor................................................................................................................................7
Battery Life Calculator.............................................................................................................................7
Collecting Data..........................................................................................................................................8

Maintenance................................................................................................................................... 12
Changing Batteries................................................................................................................................ 12
Miscellaneous.......................................................................................................................................... 13

Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................ 14
Erratic Readings...................................................................................................................................... 14
Zero Readings When Pressurized.................................................................................................... 14
Grounding Issues................................................................................................................................... 14

Appendix A: Technical Specifications.................................................................................... 15
General Specification........................................................................................................................... 15
Logging...................................................................................................................................................... 15
Power.......................................................................................................................................................... 15
Temperature............................................................................................................................................. 15
Level............................................................................................................................................................ 16
Wiring and Component Information............................................................................................. 16

Appendix B: Settings and Calibration .................................................................................. 17
Preparation............................................................................................................................................... 17
Submergence.......................................................................................................................................... 19
Depth-to-Water...................................................................................................................................... 20
Elevation Above Sea Level.................................................................................................................. 21
Staff Gauge............................................................................................................................................... 22

Appendix C: Alternate Connection Options....................................................................... 23
Connecting via RS232 Serial Port.................................................................................................... 23
Connecting with a USB/Serial Adapter.......................................................................................... 23

Appendix D: Reading the LevelSCOUT via Direct Read................................................ 25
Setting Units for Direct Read............................................................................................................. 25
Reading Via Modbus® RTU................................................................................................................ 26

Limited Warranty/Disclaimer - INW LevelSCOUT............................................................. 27
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INTRODUCTION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Introduction
What is the LevelSCOUT?
The INW LevelSCOUT Smart Sensor is an integrated datalogger and level/temperature
sensor and is ideal for site assessments, tidal studies, environmental monitoring,
surface water discharge measurement, and aquifer level monitoring, as well as aquifer
storage and recovery. This sensor networks with all of the INW Smart Sensor family. Its
compatibility with INW’s Wireless Data Collection technology makes it ideal for remote
monitoring.
This industry standard digital RS485 interface device records up to 50,000 records of
level, temperature, and time data, operates with low power, and features easy-to-use
software with powerful features. Constructed with 316 stainless steel, acetal, and Viton®,
this sensor provides high-accuracy readings in rugged and corrosive field conditions.
The LevelSCOUT is an absolute sensor, requiring no vent tubes, desiccant, or bellows.
It can be paired with a BaroSCOUT barometric sensor and used with the Aqua4Plus
Barometric Compensation Utility to adjust the LevelSCOUT readings for current
atmospheric pressure.
A 1/2 AA 3.6v lithium battery powers the LevelSCOUT. The unit is programmed using
INW’s easy-to-use Aqua4Plus Lite or Aqua4Plus control software. Once programmed the
unit will measure and collect data at the time interval programmed.
Replace your analog sensor/datalogger with the INW LevelSCOUT as a stand-alone
unit or network with other INW Smart Sensors. While most will use the LevelSCOUT
with INW’s Aqua4Plus Lite or Aqua4Plus software, it is by no means limited to that
software. You can use your own Modbus® RTU software or logging equipment to read
measurements via RS485, tying into your existing systems and data bases.
Initial Inspection and Handling
Upon receipt of your smart sensor, inspect the shipping package for damage. If any
damage is apparent, note the signs of damage on the appropriate shipping form.
After opening the carton, look for concealed damage, such as a cut cable. If concealed
damage is found, immediately file a claim with the carrier.
Check the etched label on the sensor to be sure that the proper range and type were
provided. Also check the label attached to the cable at the connector end for the proper
cable length.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do handle the device with care.
Do store the device in a dry, inside
area when not in use.
Do install the device so that the
cable connector is kept dry.

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Don’t support the device with the connector.
Use a strain relief device to take the
tension off the connectors.
Don’t allow the device to free-fall down a well
as impact damage can occur.
Don’t bang or drop the device on hard
objects.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

How Pressure/Level Sensors Work
Liquids and gasses do not retain a fixed shape. Both have the ability to flow and are
often referred to as fluids. One fundamental law for a fluid is that the fluid exerts
an equal pressure in all directions at a given level. Further, this pressure increases
with an increasing depth of “submergence”. If the density of a fluid remains constant
(noncompressible...a generally good assumption for water at “normal” pressures and
temperatures), this pressure increases linearly with the depth of “submergence”.
We are all “submerged” in the atmosphere. As we increase our elevation, the pressure
exerted on our bodies decreases as there is less of this fluid above us. It should be
noted that atmospheric pressure at a given level does vary with changes in the weather.
One standard atmosphere (pressure at sea level at 20º C) is defined to be 14.7 PSI
(pounds per square inch).
There are several methods to reference a pressure measurement. Absolute pressure is
measured with respect to an ideal vacuum (no pressure). Gauge pressure is the most
common way we express pressure in every day life and is the pressure exerted over and
above atmospheric pressure. With this in mind, gauge pressure (Pg) can be expressed
as the difference between the absolute pressure (Pa) and atmospheric pressure (Patm):
Pg = Pa - Patm.
The LevelSCOUT is an absolute sensor and will require an outside barometric reference
to obtain “gauge” type readings.

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INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Installation and Operation
Power
The LevelSCOUT comes with a 1/2 AA 3.6v lithium battery.
Connecting the LevelSCOUT to a Computer
In its cabled configuration, the sensor cable is terminated with a weather-resistant
connector. In its cableless configuration, the sensor is terminated with a weatherresistant connector inside a screw-cap. Connect the weather-resistant connector to
your computer’s USB port as shown below. (For alternate connection options, see
Appendix C.)
USB to RS485
Adapter
Screwcap

PC or Laptop
Computer

Sensor
USB Port
Cableless
Configuration

Sensor

Connect the sensor to your PC using INW’s USB to RS485
adapter. (See Appendix C for alternate connections.)
Installing the Aqua4Plus Lite or Aqua4Plus Software
The LevelSCOUT comes with the Aqua4Plus Lite host software that is installed on your PC
or laptop. Use this software to program the datalogger, to retrieve data from the logger,
to view collected data, and to export data to external files for use with spreadsheets or
databases.
Refer to the Aqua4Plus Lite software manual for details on installing and using
Aqua4Plus Lite. LevelSCOUT can also be used with the full Aqua4Plus software.
Using the LevelSCOUT Without Aqua4Plus Lite or Aqua4Plus
Most users will use the LevelSCOUT with INW’s Aqua4Plus Lite or Aqua4Plus software.
However, the LevelSCOUT is quite versatile, communicating via Modbus® RTU, allowing
you to use your own software or logging equipment. (See Appendix D for further
details.)

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INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Installing the Sensor
The LevelSCOUT measures level. The most common application is measuring liquid
levels in wells and tanks. In order to do this, the sensor must be installed below the
water level at a fixed depth. The installation depth depends on the range of the
sensor. The sensor should not be installed below its maximum depth. (See Technical
Specifications in Appendix A for maximum depth.) If the sensor is installed below its
maximum depth, damage may result to the sensor and the output reading will not be
correct.
Lower the sensor to the desired depth. Fasten the cable to the well head using tie wraps
or a weather proof strain-relief system. Take a measurement to insure the sensor is not
installed below its maximum range.
Be sure the supplied cap is securely placed on the weather-resistant connector at the
top of the cable. Do not install such that the connector might become submerged with
changing weather conditions. The connector can withstand incidental splashing but is
not designed to be submerged.
The sensor can be installed in any position; however, when it leaves the factory it is
tested in the vertical position. Strapping the sensor body with tie wraps or tape will not
hurt it. If the sensor is being installed in a fluid environment other than water, be sure
to check the compatibility of the fluid with the wetted parts of the sensor.
Battery Life Calculator
The LevelSCOUT has a battery life calculator that is set at the factory when batteries are
first put in the sensor. If you need to replace the batteries, see the Maintenance section
for replacement information and for information on resetting the battery life calculator.
If the battery life calculator is not reset, the remaining life information will be
incorrect.

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INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Collecting Data
Following is a brief overview on using Aqua4Plus Lite or Aqua4Plus to collect data.
Please refer to the software instruction manuals for further details.
Real Time Monitor
Click Single to get a single reading.
Click Start to get a reading once a second for 60 seconds.
Click Stop to stop the reading.
Note: These are snapshot readings and are not recorded on the sensor.

The Real Time Monitor gives a snapshot of the
current readings on the sensor.

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INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Setting up Data Recording
Click the
tool button. A Logging Schedule window will open. Refer to the software
manual for details in describing your schedule. Click the Start button to send the
schedule to the sensor and begin recording. Note: The LevelSCOUT is limited to only one
phase.

Using the Logging Schedule Window, describe
the test steps for your particular test.
Retrieving Data from the Sensor/Datalogger
• Click on the file you want to retrieve.
• Click the
tool button.
• Select a file location.
• Click Save.
• Click Start.

Select the data file you are ready to
retrieve.

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INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Viewing Data
• Click the
or
tool button to view data as a table.
• Click the
tool button to view data as a graph.
• Navigate to the desired file, then click the Open button.

The File Display window displays your
data in a tabular format.

The Graph Window displays your data on an X Y
coordinate graph.

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INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Exporting Data to .csv or .xls Files
•
•
•
•
•

Click the
or
tool button to view data as a table.
Click on the
tool button.
Select a file location and enter a name for the file.
Select a file type.
Click Save.

A Word About Units
Readings from the LevelSCOUT Smart Sensor can be displayed in various units, such
as PSI, Ft. H2O, or mm H2O for level, or degrees Celsius or degrees Fahrenheit for
temperature. Select the units you want from the Options | Display Units menu or from
the Configure Menu | Program Configuration | Set Computer Display Units.

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MAINTENANCE

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Maintenance
Changing Batteries
The LevelSCOUT is powered by a single 1/2 AA 3.6 lithium battery. In most situations the
battery will last for years. If you need to replace the battery, contact INW for information
on getting it replaced. You cannot simply replace the battery itself but must replace the
entire compartment.
IMPORTANT NOTE!
When changing batteries, it is important to reset the Battery Life Calculator.
If the battery life calculator is not reset, the remaining life information
will be incorrect. Access the Battery Life Calculator from the Configure Menu
- Battery Information and Reset. If you have put in new batteries, checkmark
the box “I have just put in fresh batteries.” Click Save and Close.

Reset the Battery Life Calculator if you change the battery.

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MAINTENANCE

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Miscellaneous

Sensor: There are no user-serviceable parts, other than the batteries. If problems
develop with sensor stability or accuracy, contact INW. If the sensor has been exposed to
hazardous materials, do not return it without notification and authorization.

Cable: Cable can be damaged by abrasion, sharp objects, twisting, crimping, crushing,
or pulling. Take care during installation and use to avoid cable damage. If a section
of cable is damaged, it is recommended that you send your sensor back to replace the
cable harness assembly.

End Connections: The connectors used by INW are not submersible, but are designed
to be splash-resistant.

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TROUBLESHOOTING

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Troubleshooting
Erratic Readings
Erratic readings can be caused by a poor connection, damaged cable, moisture in the
unit, or a damaged transmitter. In most cases, erratic readings are due to moisture
getting into the system. The first thing to check is the connection. Look for moisture
between contacts or a loose or broken wire. Next, check the cable for cracking or
fraying. If the connections and cable appear OK, but the readings are still erratic,
the transmitter may be damaged. Contact INW for evaluation and repair. Erratic and
erroneous readings can also occur due to improper grounding. See Grounding Issues,
below.
Zero Readings When Pressurized
Continuous zero readings are usually caused by an open circuit which may indicate
a broken cable, a bad connection, or possibly a damaged transmitter. Check the
connector to see if a wire has become loose or if the cable has been cut. If damage is
not readily apparent, contact INW for evaluation and repair.
Grounding Issues
It is commonly known that when using electronic equipment, both personnel and
equipment need to be protected from high power spikes that may be caused by
lightning, power line surges, or faulty equipment. Without a proper grounding system, a
power spike will find the path of least resistance to earth ground – whether that path is
through sensitive electronic equipment or the person operating the equipment. In order
to ensure safety and prevent equipment damage, a grounding system must be used to
provide a low resistance path to ground.
When using several pieces of interconnected equipment, each of which may have its own
ground, problems with noise, signal interference, and erroneous readings may be noted.
This is caused by a condition known as a Ground Loop. Because of natural resistance in
the earth between the grounding points, current can flow between the points, creating
an unexpected voltage difference and resulting erroneous readings.
The single most important step in minimizing a ground loop is to tie all equipment
(sensors, dataloggers, external power sources, and any other associated equipment) to a
single common grounding point. INW recommends connecting the shield to ground
at the connector end.

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Appendix A: Technical Specifications
General Specification
The INW LevelSCOUT is a microprocessor based digital intelligent sensor designed to
measure and record level, temperature, and time, utilizing state-of-the-art low power,
battery operated circuitry.
Level is measured with an extremely rugged and stable piezo-electric media-isolated
pressure element combined with an analog-to-digital converter. This provides extremely
accurate and stable pressure input into the microprocessor on the circuit board.
Temperature is measured with an epoxy bead thermistor. The data is stored in nonvolatile memory. A serial communication link (RS485) provides communication to the
host computer.
Length (cabled version)

6.6” (16.7 cm)

Length (cableless version)

5.1” (12.9 cm)

Diameter

0.875” (2.22 cm)

Body Material

316 stainless steel or titanium

Wetted Materials

316 stainless steel or titanium, acetal, fluoropolymer

Communication

RS485 Modbus® RTU

Direct Modbus Read Output

32-bit IEEE floating point

Internal Math

32-bit floating point

Operating Temp. Range

-20° C to 60° C

Storage Temp. Range

-40° C to 80° C

Logging
Memory

50,000 records

Logging Rate

1x per second

Software

Complimentary Aqua4Plus Lite

File Formats

.xls / .csv / .a4d

Power
Internal Battery

One 1/2 AA 3.6 lithium battery

Expected Battery Life

4.5 years (depending on use)

Temperature
Element Type

Thermistor

Accuracy

± 0.1° C
(from -20° C to 60° C)

Resolution

0.01° C

Units

Celsius, Fahrenheit, Kelvin

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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Level
Transducer Type

Silicon strain gauge

Transducer Material

316 stainless steel

Ranges
Absolute1
PSI
FtH2O (max. depth)
mH2O (max. depth)

30, 50, 100, 300
35, 81, 196, 658
10, 24, 59, 200

Units

PSI, FtH2O, inH2O, cmH2O, mmH2O, mH2O, inHg,
cmHg, mmHg, Bars, mBars, kPa

Accuracy

± 0.05% FS (@ 20° C)
± 0.10% FS (0° C to 40° C)

Resolution

0.0034% FS (typical)

Maximum Operating Pressure

1.1 x FS

Over Range Protection

3x FS (for >300 psi2, 1.75 FS)

Burst Pressure

600 psi (approx. 1350 ft or 410 m)

¹Depth range has 15 PSI subtracted to give actual depth allowed.
²Approx. 658 feet or 200 meters

Wiring and Component Information

White
Purple
Yellow
Brown
Blue
Shield

Seametrics • 253.872.0284

1
2
3
4
5

12 VDC+ (Vaux)
Modbus DModbus D+
SDI-12 (Not used)
Ground

5-Pin
Connector

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SETTINGS AND CALIBRATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Appendix B: Settings and Calibration
Settings and calibration values can only be changed when there is no data on the
sensor. Be sure to retrieve any data and then erase the data on the sensor before
proceeding.
The temperature channel rarely needs adjustment. If you think your temperature
channel needs calibrating, contact your service representative.
Before leaving the factory, your LevelSCOUT has been inspected using precision
instruments. However, you may want to change some of the settings for the level
channel for the following reasons:
•
•
•
•

To set a specific zero-reference point for submergence
To return values as depth-to-water
To return values as elevation in relation to sea-level
To return values relative to a staff gauge

Preparation
• Run Aqua4Plus Lite or Aqua4Plus and scan for sensors.
• On the Sensor Map, click the sensor you want to adjust.
• From Aqua4Plus Lite:
◦◦ Select the units you want to use for measurements, i.e., psi, feet of water, inches
of mercury, etc. Set this from the Configure Menu | Program Configuration | Set
Computer Display Units.
◦◦ Open the Settings and Calibration window by clicking on the 			
Settings button.
• From Aqua4Plus:
◦◦ Select the units you want to use for measurements, i.e., psi, feet of water, inches
of mercury, etc. Set this from the Options Menu | Display Units.
◦◦ Open the Settings and Calibration window from the Configure Menu | 		
Settings and Calibration.
Select the setting type from the Select Setting Type dropdown box. A picture will display
illustrating the type of selection. Step-by-step instructions will be displayed on the right.

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SETTINGS AND CALIBRATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Sample Settings and Calibration Window

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SETTINGS AND CALIBRATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Submergence
One-Point Calibration:
-- Computing Offset -•
•
•
•

Place sensor in the fluid you are measuring at a precise known level.
In the Ref box for the first point, enter this level or pressure.
Click first Measure button.
When readings have stabilized, click the Accept button in the pop-up box.

-- Applying Offset -• Click the Apply button to apply calculated offset.
• The calculated offset will be transferred to the offset field near the top of the
window.
• Click OK to save the value to the sensor!!!
Two-Point Calibration:
-- Compute First Calibration Point -•
•
•
•

Place sensor in the fluid you are measuring at a precise known level.
In the Ref box for the first point, enter this level or pressure.
Click first Measure button.
When readings have stabilized, click the Accept button in the pop-up box.

-- Compute Second Calibration Point -• Place sensor in the fluid you are measuring at a second precise known level.
• In the Ref box for the second point, enter this level or pressure.
• Click second Measure button.
• When readings have stabilized, click the Accept button in the pop-up box.
-- Applying Slope and Offset -• Click the Apply button to apply calculated values.
• The calculated slope and offset will be transferred to the fields near the top of
the window.
• Click OK to save the value to the sensor!!!
-- Verifying Settings -• Using the Real Time Monitor, take a few readings to verify it is reading as expected.
IMPORTANT NOTE!
When taking readings on an absolute sensor, such as the LevelSCOUT, you
will need to SUBRACT the current barometric pressure to get submergence.
See the Barometric Compensation Utility Application Note (9C0275) for
information on how the Barometric Utility can help automate this process.
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SETTINGS AND CALIBRATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Depth-to-Water
When using the Depth-to-Water setting, you may want to change the channel label at
the top of the Settings window to read “Depth” or “Depth-to-Water”.
NOTE: Be sure to use the same units for all measurements in this calculation. For
example, if you have the program set to display in Ft H2O then be sure to enter the
barometric pressure and depth-to-water readings in Ft H2O.
-- Computing Offset -• Enter the current barometric pressure in the Barometric box.
• Place the sensor in the well.
• Using a water level indicator or other measuring device, determine the depth-towater from the top of the well (or other reference point).
• Enter this value in the DTW box.
• Click the Measure button.
• When readings have stabilized, click the Accept button in the pop-up box.
-- Applying the Slope and Offset -• Click the Apply button to apply the calculated values.
• The calculated slope and offset will be transferred to the fields near the top of the
window.
• Click OK to save the values to the sensor!!!
-- Verifying Settings -• Using the Real Time Monitor, take a few readings to verify it is reading as expected.

IMPORTANT NOTE!
When taking readings on an absolute sensor, such as the LevelSCOUT, you
will need to ADD the current barometric pressure to the sensor reading to
get depth-to-water. See the Barometric Compensation Utility Application
Note (9C0275) for information on how the Barometric Utility can help
automate this process.

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SETTINGS AND CALIBRATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Elevation Above Sea Level
When using the Elevation setting, you may want to change the channel label at the top
of the Settings window to read “Elevation”.
NOTE: Be sure to use the same units for all measurements on this page. For example,
if you have the program set to display in Ft H2O then be sure to enter the elevation,
barometric pressure, and depth-to-water in Ft H2O.
-- Computing Offset -•
•
•
•

Enter the elevation of the top of the well (or other reference point).
Enter the current barometric pressure in the Barometric box.
Place the sensor in the well.
Using a water level indicator or other measuring device, determine the depth-towater from the top of the well (or other reference point).
• Enter this value in the DTW box.
• Click the Measure button.
• When readings have stabilized, click the Accept button in the pop-up box.
-- Applying Offset -• Click the Apply button to apply the calculated offset.
• The calculated offset will be transferred to the offset field near the top of the
window.
• Click OK to save the values to the sensor!!!
-- Verifying Settings -• Using the Real Time Monitor, take a few readings to verify it is reading as expected.
IMPORTANT NOTE!
When taking readings on an absolute sensor, such as the LevelSCOUT, you
will need to ADD the current barometric pressure to get elevation. See the
Barometric Compensation Utility Application Note (9C0275) for information
on how the Barometric Utility can help automate this process.

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SETTINGS AND CALIBRATION

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Staff Gauge
When using the Staff Gauge setting, you may want to change the channel label at the
top of the Settings window to read “Staff Gauge”.
NOTE: Be sure to use the same units for all measurements on this page. For example,
if you have the program set to display in Ft H2O then be sure to enter the barometric
pressure and staff gauge readings in Ft H2O.
-- Computing Offset -•
•
•
•
•
•

Enter the current barometric pressure in the Barometric box.
Place the sensor in the well.
Note the current level on your staff gauge.
Enter this value in the Staff box.
Click the Measure button.
When readings have stabilized, click the Accept button in the pop-up box.

-- Applying Offset -• Click the Apply button to apply the calculated offset.
• The calculated offset will be transferred to the offset field near the top of the
window.
• Click OK to save the values to the sensor!!!
-- Verifying Settings -• Using the Real Time Monitor, take a few readings to verify it is reading as expected.

IMPORTANT NOTE!
When taking readings on an absolute sensor, such as a LevelSCOUT, you
will need to SUBRACT the current barometric pressure to get a staff gauge
reading. See the Barometric Compensation Utility Application Note (9C0275)
for information on how the Barometric Utility can help automate this process.

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ALTERNATE CONNECTION OPTIONS

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Appendix C: Alternate Connection Options
INW recommends connecting the sensor to your computer using the INW USB cable.
However, when using Aqua4Plus, the sensor can also be connected using an RS232
serial port or a USB-to-Serial cable, as described below. (Note: Aqua4Plus Lite can only
communicate using the INW USB cable.)
Connecting via RS232 Serial Port
In its cabled configuration, the sensor cable is terminated with a weather-resistant
connector. In its cableless configuration, the sensor is terminated with a weatherresistant connector inside a screw-cap. Connect the weather-resistant connector to
your computer’s serial port as shown below.
Interface Cable
Screwcap

RS485/RS232
Adapter

Sensor

Serial Port
Cableless
Configuration

PC or
Laptop
Computer

Sensor

Connect the sensor to your computer using an RS485/RS232 adapter and
an interface cable.
Connecting with a USB/Serial Adapter
USB-to-Serial cables are readily available from many electronics and computer stores,
as well as numerous sites on the Internet. INW has tested and recommends the Keyspan
USA-19HS. It is available from INW as well as from many sites on the Internet. Install as
follows:
• Plug into USB port.
• Install the drivers provided with the particular unit.
• Determine the port number to which the adapter is assigned.
◦◦ Right-click on My Computer.
◦◦ From the popup menu, select Manage to open the Computer Management
window.
◦◦ On left panel, click on Device Manager.
◦◦ On right panel, double-click on Ports.
◦◦ A list of active COM ports will be displayed. Note the COM number
assigned to the adapter you just installed.
For example:
◦◦ Close Manager.
• Connect to the sensor.
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ALTERNATE CONNECTION OPTIONS

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

• On the Aqua4Plus software, select the COM port noted above. (If you do not
see your new COM port in the dropdown box, open the Communications dialog box
from the Options menu. Increase the Highest COM port number, up to a maximum
of 15.)

Interface
Cable
Screwcap

USB-to-Serial
Adapter

USB Port

Sensor
RS232/RS485
Adapter
Cableless
Configuration

Sensor

PC or Laptop
Computer

Connect the sensor to your computer using a
USB to Serial adapter and an interface cable.

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READING VIA DIRECT READ

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Appendix D: Reading the LevelSCOUT via Direct Read
While the LevelSCOUT comes with INW’s easy to use Aqua4Plus Lite or Aqua4Plus
software, you can also use standard Modbus® RTU equipment to easily take readings, so
as to tie into your existing equipment or networks.
Setting Units for Direct Read
By default, the LevelSCOUT uses the following units:
Temperature
Level

Degrees Celsius
PSI

However, you can select from a variety of units for direct read measurements. If you want
to change to different units, for example, degrees Fahrenheit for temperature or feet of
water for level, set these units using Aqua4Plus/Aqua4Plus Lite.
• From Aqua4Plus select Direct Read Units from the Configure | Advanced menu.
• From Aqua4Plus Lite select Set Direct Read Units from the Sensor configure menu.
• On the popup box, click the down-arrows next to the channel types you want to
change, and then select the units you want. (For level, select units from the Pressure
dropdown box.)
• Click OK.

Select the units for your direct
read Modbus measurements
Once set, these units are saved on the sensor and direct readings will return values using
these units. (Note: These settings do not affect the units used on the Aqua4Plus Lite or
Aqua4 Plus display. Refer to the software manual for details.)

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READING VIA DIRECT READ

INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

Reading Via Modbus RTU
®

Taking Measurements
Reading Registers
Read measurements using Modbus function 03 – Read Holding Registers.
Readings are located in two registers each, starting at address 62592. (PT2X register
addressing is zero based, i.e., starts at zero. If your equipment uses one based
addressing, you will need to add one to the register addresses.)

Register addresses for LevelSCOUT
Temperature
Pressure

Zero Based
62592
62594

One Based
62593
62595

Measurement Timing
When you request a reading via Modbus, the sensor wakes up, returns the current values
in the registers, and then starts taking new readings and updating the registers. After
approximately four seconds, if no more readings have been requested, the sensor goes
back to sleep.
Because of this, the first reading you get will be old. If you are taking readings at
intervals of less than four seconds, simply ignore the first reading — all remaining
readings will be current. On the other hand, if you are taking readings at intervals of
greater than four seconds, take a reading, ignore it, wait one second, take another
reading. Record this second reading.
Data Format
The data is returned as 32-bit IEEE floating-point values, highword first, also referred to
as big-endian or float inverse.
For further information and detailed Modbus examples, see INW application note,
“Modbus Direct Read on INW Smart Sensors” available from our web site at http://www.
inwusa.com/appnotes.htm.

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INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS

LIMITED WARRANTY/DISCLAIMER - INW LevelSCOUT
SUBMERSIBLE LEVEL /TEMPERATURE SENSOR
A. Seller warrants that products manufactured by Seller when properly installed,
shall be free from defects in material and workmanship. Seller’s obligation under this
warranty shall be limited to replacing or repairing the part or parts or, at Seller’s option,
the products which prove defective in material or workmanship within TWO (2) years
from the date of delivery, provided that Buyer gives Seller prompt notice of any defect
or failure and satisfactory proof thereof. Any defective part or parts must be returned
to Seller’s factory or to an authorized service center for inspection. Buyer will prepay
all freight charges to return any products to Seller’s factory, or any other repair facility
designated by Seller. Seller will deliver replacements for defective products to Buyer
(ground freight prepaid) to the destination provided in the original order. Products
returned to Seller for which Seller provides replacement under this warranty shall
become the property of Seller.
This limited warranty does not apply to lack of performance caused by abrasive
materials, corrosion due to aggressive fluids, mishandling or misapplication. Seller’s
obligations under this warranty shall not apply to any product which (a) is normally
consumed in operation, or (b) has a normal life inherently shorter than the warranty
period stated herein.
In the event that equipment is altered or repaired by the Buyer without prior written
approval by the Seller, all warranties are void. Equipment and accessories not
manufactured by the Seller are warranted only to the extent of and by the original
manufacturer’s warranty.
THE FOREGOING WARRANTIES ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER
ORAL, WRITTEN, EXPRESSED, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY. IMPLIED WARRANTIES
OF FITNESS AND MERCHANTABILITY SHALL NOT APPLY. SELLER’S WARRANTY
OBLIGATIONS AND BUYER’S REMEDIES THEREUNDER (EXCEPT AS TO TITLE) ARE SOLELY
AND EXCLUSIVELY AS STATED HEREIN. IN NO CASE WILL SELLER BE LIABLE FOR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, LABOR PERFORMED IN CONNECTION WITH REMOVAL
AND REPLACEMENT OF THE SENSOR SYSTEM, LOSS OF PRODUCTION OR ANY OTHER
LOSS INCURRED BECAUSE OF INTERRUPTION OF SERVICE. A NEW WARRANTY PERIOD
SHALL NOT BE ESTABLISHED FOR REPAIRED OR REPLACED MATERIAL, PRODUCTS
OR SUPPLIES. SUCH ITEMS SHALL REMAIN UNDER WARRANTY ONLY FOR THE
REMAINDER OF THE WARRANTY PERIOD ON THE ORIGINAL MATERIALS, PRODUCTS
OR SUPPLIES.
B. With respect to products purchased by consumers in the United States for personal
use, the implied warranties including but not limited to the warranties of merchantability
and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to twentyfour (24) months from the date
of delivery.
Some states do not allow limitations on the duration of an implied warranty, so
the above limitation may not apply to you. Similarly, some states do not allow the
exclusion or limitation of consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion
may not apply to you. This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights; however, you
may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.
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Seametrics • 19026 72nd Avenue South • Kent, Washington 98032 • USA
(P) 253.872.0284 • (F) 253.872.0285 • 1.800.975.8153 • inwusa.com
PN 6D275-NI / 9D0750r3.0-20160212 2/112/16



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