Data Acquisition Networks - Oysterlease Salinity Monitoring

Oysters are grown in many estuaries in Australia and other parts of the world. The oysters are easier to harvest than in open-sea leases but care must be taken to ensure the water quality is maintained. Levels of estuarine pollution are increased following periods of rain as pollutants are ‘washed’ into the river systems along with the storm-water run-off. The assumption therefore, is that if estuary salinity is monitored on a continual basis, periods of low salinity can be detected representing the possibility of increased levels of pollution. As the oysters absorb the water from their environment, the beds must be closed when there is the potential for pollution. After the water salinity returns to normal the oysters clean themselves and are safe to harvestSalinity is a known function of water conductivity and temperature. By monitoring these two parameters, the water salinity can be calculated in real time to assist the oyster farmers in their commercial decisionsData Acquisition Networks Pty Ltd (DAN) offer their remote monitoring system model number DM01-S10-CT01-B01, described below: as a solution

Probes specially selected for the application to measure both temperature and conductivity are mounted below the buoy to gather data below the water surface level. Each probe is designed for continuous immersion

The data transceiver is mounted below the beacon at the top of the buoy. The circuitry is protected with a conformal coating and is mounted in a waterproof box. Wiring from the probes to the data transceiver is via a water tight conduit arrangement.

Batteries sufficient to drive all on-board needs are located in the buoy.

Solar collectors are mounted around the buoy but below the upper mounting box. Solar cells are selected to provide sufficient charge ensuring the batteries continue to operate between services

The web site is designed to enable access via a security password. Each user is issued with a password enabling them to access their information and to input alarm setpoints. Data is available in tabular or graph form and is retained on the server for a maximum period of 3 months

  • Measures conductivity and temperature as standard.
  • Accurate calculation of salinity from these variables
  • Optional digital input plus 2 high impedance inputs for pH and/or ORP.
  • Runs off internal solar powered batteries.
  • Inbuilt wireless communications to access the internet.
  • You can control how often data is updated to your account.
  • You can set up your alarm points and associated emails and text messages.