The eDNA Sampler is a portable device designed for environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling, primarily for filtering water to collect genetic material from aquatic environments. It is available in both backpack and stand-alone configurations, offering flexibility for various sampling scenarios, including point sampling with a telescoping pole and mobile transect sampling.

Function Description:

The eDNA Sampler operates by drawing water through a filter housing, capturing eDNA for subsequent laboratory analysis. It features a pump control system that allows users to set target volumes and flow rates, and it monitors pressure and flow during filtration. The device records various parameters, including sample volume, collection time, pressure, flow rate, and GPS data, which can be exported via a USB drive for data management and analysis. It supports both automatic and manual operating modes, catering to different sampling needs and environmental conditions. The system is designed to facilitate the preservation of collected eDNA filters immediately after sampling.

Important Technical Specifications:

Batteries:

Main battery: 9.6 Ahr 12.8V LiFePO4
Remote battery: 1900 mAHr 1.2V NIMH
Runtime Main Battery: 6-8 Hrs
Runtime Remote Battery: ~4 Hrs

Dimensions and Weights:

Dimensions w/backpack: 30.5 (775mm) H x 16.4 (416.5mm) W x 15 (381mm) D
Handheld unit dimension: 16 (406.4mm) H x 15 (381.0mm) W x 9.25 (235mm) D
Weight w/o battery: 24.0 lbs. (10.89kg)
Handheld unit weight w/o battery and remote: 16.2 lbs. (7.35kg)
Main battery weight: 3.0 lbs. (1.36kg)
Remote battery weight: 0.1 lbs (45.4g)
Telescoping pole dimensions including bipod: 41.5 (1054.1mm) to 144 (3657.6mm) L x 5.25 (133.4mm) D
Telescoping pole weight with bipod: 7 lbs. (3.18kg)
Remote control dimensions: 4.7 (119.4mm) L x 2.5 (63.5mm) W x 0.94 (23.9mm) H
Remote weight: 0.4 lbs. (181.5g)

Sensor Specs:

Minimum flow rate: 0.1 L/min
Maximum flow rate: 1.4 L/min
Maximum measurable volume: 999.9 L
Volume accuracy: > 90% at 0.1 L/min or higher flow
GPS system compatibility: GNSS (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, BeiDou)
Number of channels: 72
GPS, GLONASS sensitivity: -167dBm
GPS position accuracy: 2.5 meter

Communications:

USB: 2.0
Log File Format: .csv

Pump Specs:

Ports: 1/4 inch ID tubing
Priming vacuum: ~5 psi
Maximum wetted vacuum: 14 psi (96.5 kilo-pascals)

Usage Features:

eDNA Sampler Unit:

The unit includes a control/display panel, USB connector, speaker/volume control, power switch, water inlet and outlet, and a GPS antenna. For backpack units, it also features a harness, upper and lower dry bags, and a waterproof door. The stand-alone sampler includes an input power cable and a battery.

Remote Control:

A remote control is provided for operating the pump, featuring ON/OFF, AUTO/MANUAL mode selection, START/STOP, and RESET buttons. It uses rechargeable AA batteries.

Telescoping Sampling Pole:

Used for point sampling, the pole comes with a support bipod. It allows for precise placement of the filter housing in the water.

Transect Sampling Pole:

Designed for mobile sampling, this pole (purchased separately) can accommodate up to three filter housings simultaneously, allowing for standardized volume filtered per unit distance during transect walks.

Filter Housings and Packets:

Single-use filter packets (purchased separately) contain filter housings and extension tubes for each sampling location. The system also supports self-preserving filter housings.

Operating Modes:

Auto Mode: The system automatically stops filtration and alerts the user (with two beeps) when the target sample volume is reached, accounting for water in the hose and filter housing via a "Volume Offset" value. A new sample ID and data record are generated upon starting in this mode.
Manual Mode: Useful when the target volume is unknown or when frequent starting and stopping of the pump is required (e.g., during transect sampling). This mode does not generate a new data record on start or an alarm for target volume.

Menu Screen Settings:

Users can adjust settings such as:

Maximum Pressure: The maximum negative pressure (PSI) before the pump throttles.
Minimum Flow: The flow rate (L/min) at which a low flow alarm (five rapid beeps) will sound, indicating filter clogging.
Volume Offset: A value (in ml) deducted from the target volume to alert the user when to invert the filter, accounting for water in the tubing and filter housing. This value needs to be recalibrated if tubing length or filter arrangement changes.
Display Mode: Allows selection between dark and light display modes.
Device Information: Provides software and firmware version details.

Point Sampling Procedure:

Program target volume, target flow, and maximum pressure (suggested starting points: 1.0 L/min and 10 PSI).
Press Reset for a new data record.
Set up the telescoping pole with the bipod.
Connect long tubing to the "IN" port and short tubing to the "OUT" port.
Attach a new filter housing to the extension tube and then to the pole clamp.
Power on the remote control and select Auto or Manual mode.
Place the nozzle in water and start sampling.
Continue filtering until the target volume is reached (Auto Mode), low flow alarm sounds (Manual Mode), or desired volume is achieved.
Invert the filter housing and raise the nozzle to clear water from tubing and filter.
Retract the pole and turn off the pump.

Transect Sampling Procedure:

The eDNA Sampler is optimized for mobile sampling while wearing the backpack unit. It uses GPS to record the filtration transect and provides a constant output of ml/meter, allowing for standardization of filtered volume per unit distance. The Smith-Root Transect pole (Part # 11203) can be used for up to three filter housings simultaneously.

Press Reset for a new data record.
Use Manual mode if frequent stops are expected.
Set Target flow to a lower range (e.g., 0.5 L/min) to extend transect duration.
Start at the beginning of the transect (downstream, moving upstream).
Place extension tubes into the water.
Start the pump via remote control and begin walking at a constant speed to maintain a consistent ml/meter value.
If obstructions are encountered, stop the pump, invert filter housings, move around the obstruction, and restart while flipping the pole back into position.

Sample Preservation:

Open the filter housing by pulling the nozzle tab.
Extract the filter using forceps and fold it into a vial containing user-provided preservative (e.g., ethanol). The nozzle extension tube can assist in folding.
Label the sample with an ID and store it in a storage box or the unit's dry bags.
Record the Log ID and any relevant metadata.
For self-preserving filters, crack the seal (do not open) and run the pump for approximately 20 seconds to air dry the filter membrane. Then, remove the extension tube, place the filter housing back into its original foil pouch, reseal, and label. Store at ambient temperature.

Data Access and Management:

Plug a FAT32 formatted USB thumb drive into the USB port.
The unit automatically transfers data logs to the USB drive.
Remove the USB drive when prompted. Each sampling event generates a separate .csv file with summary information and raw parameter data recorded every 2 seconds.

Maintenance Features:

Battery Installation:

For backpack units, access the battery tray in the lower dry bag, place the battery in the rubber footer, and connect it to the power cable.
For the remote control, use a small screwdriver to remove the watertight cover, install two rechargeable AA batteries (noting polarity), and replace the cover.

Sterilization (Optional):

While not required between every sample, sterilization is advisable when moving between watersheds to prevent pathogen transfer.

Fill a 1L bottle with a 2% bleach water solution (20ml household bleach + tap water).
Place both IN and OUT tubes (without filter) into the bleach water and start the pump.
Run the pump for 10 minutes to circulate the bleach water.
Rinse the system with clean tap water by repeating the process. Note: Higher bleach concentrations (>2%) may damage internal components.

Cleaning:

Clean the sampling pump with a soft cloth and mild soap and water solution.
Do not use chlorinated or solvent-based cleaners on the window or enclosure, as they can cause damage.

Storage Procedure:

Always replace the orange "IN" and "OUT" port caps when not in use.
For storage longer than 24 hours:
- Attach tubing, place the "IN" tube in a clean container with >3L fresh tap water, and the "OUT" tube in a sink.
- If bleach was used for decontamination, ensure the system is fully flushed with fresh water.
- Run the pump in manual mode at 1L/min for 2 minutes, but do not run it dry.
- Stop the pump after 2 liters have flushed through.
- Disconnect tubing and replace orange caps, ensuring diaphragms remain moist.

Marine Applications:

The eDNA Sampler can be used in saltwater, but a freshwater rinse is required after each use. Follow the storage procedure to flush the system.

Troubleshooting:

System cannot achieve prime: Check particulate load, max pressure setting, and head pressure. Try lowering pump elevation, increasing pump pressure, or using a larger pore size filter.
Remote control display flickering or not communicating: Change remote control batteries. Carry spare AA batteries and a Phillips head screwdriver.

Tips for Long-Term Operation:

Follow pump storage guidelines (do not store dry).
Use port caps when the system is not in use.
Avoid getting water inside the remote control battery compartment.
Do not twist bipod legs; use the button to extend or retract.

Smith-Root eDNA Sampler - Page 25

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