Nortek Signature Series User Manual

Integrator's Guide6
© 2017 Nortek AS
2 Basic interface concept
The Nortek Signature Series products command interface are ASCII based and line oriented.
Before diving into the chapters covering interfaces and commands, the operational modes and
how to change between the modes are described. Understanding the use and constrains of the
modes is important as it is used frequently when communicating with the instrument.
2.1 Modes
The current profiler operates in distinct modes. These modes will have several explicit commands
in order control the instrument. The majority of the commands are initiated from the Command
mode. The possible modes for the instrument are:
Command = Command and control
Data Retrieval = Data download from recorder
Measurement = Data collection mode
Confirmation = Confirmation mode
Figure: Instrument modes of operation
Initializing communication with the instrument is performed by sending a < BREAK >, which is
defined below. The <BREAK> will either set the instrument in Confirmation mode or restart
Command mode. The options for changing mode depends on the present mode of the instrument
(see diagram above for clarity). The timeout shown in the diagram occurs if no commands are
received in the various modes. A timer will then ensure that instrument operation continues. The

Nortek Signature Series Specifications

General

Type	Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP)
Operating Temperature	-5°C to +45°C
Storage Temperature	-20°C to +60°C
Temperature Sensor	Integrated
Pressure Sensor	Integrated
Compass and Tilt Sensor	Integrated
Data Storage	Internal memory
Communication Interfaces	Ethernet, RS-232
Depth Rating	Up to 6000 meters (depending on model)
Data Output	ASCII, binary
Beam Angle	Varies by model
Velocity Accuracy	±0.5% of measured velocity ±1 mm/s