AML-3 LGR: User Manual

Multiparameter Logger Instrument

For more information visit AMLoceanographic.com or call +1 250-656-0771

 Revision History

Revision Date Description

1.1 11 Sept 2020 Document Created

1.2 04 Jan 2021 Deep Variant Details Added

1.3 03 Feb 2021 Sleep Mode, GPS Offline Assist, GPS listener

1.4 25 Feb 2021 WiFi password

1.5 07 Sep 2021 Storage Recommendations, Additional Commands, USB FAQ

1.6 05 Nov 2021 Regulatory Information

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1 Introduction 5

1.1 Instrument Overview 5

1.2 Communicating with the Instrument 8

1.3 Charging the Instrument 9

1.4 Auxiliary Sensors 9

1.5 GPS Functionality (500m Only) 9

1.6 Indicator LED Flash Patterns 10

1.7 Pressure Ratings 11

2 Getting Started 12

2.1 Getting started with Sailfish via USB-C or Wifi Connection 12

2.2 Conducting a Profile 14

2.3 Connecting a GPS Listener 15

3 Configuration using Sailfish 18

3.1 Sampling Mode 18

3.2 Log parameters 19

3.3 Instrument Time and Location 19

3.4 Power Management 19

3.5 Manage Files 20

3.6 Firmware Updates 20

3.7 Command Prompt 20

3.8 GPS Offline Assist 20

4 Contact AML 21

Service 21

Sales 21

5 Appendix A - Full command list 22

5.1 Sampling commands 22

5.2 Monitor Configurations and commands 23

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 5.3 Log File Format/Monitor Output 24

5.4 UV Antifouling 25

5.5 Data Logging 25

5.6 Help 26

5.7 Communication commands 26

5.8 Sensor commands 26

5.9 System commands 27

5.10 GPS commands 27

5.11 Power commands 27

6 Appendix B - Output Formats 29

6.1 Column-Based Format 29

6.2 AMLx Format 29

7 Appendix C - Calculated Parameters 32

8 Appendix D - Equipping an Instrument 33

8.1 X2Change™ Sensors 33

8.1.1 Removing Sensors 33

8.1.2 Installing Sensors 34

8.2 Seals and Plugs 35

9 Appendix E - Long Term Storage Recommendations 36

10 Appendix F - USB FAQ 37

11 Appendix G - Regulatory Information 38

12 Appendix H - Warranty Statement 38

AML Warranty Policy: New Product (Instrumentation) 38

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1 Introduction
The AML-3 series of instruments is a configurable family of multiparameter sondes designed for
a wide range of data collection applications. The ‘3’ designation refers to the number of sensors
that may be simultaneously installed on the instrument’s endcap.

There are two primary configurations of instruments in the AML-3 family: the AML-3 LGR, a
self-powered instrument designed for profiling applications, and the AML-3 RT, an externally
powered instrument intended for Real Time applications. While nearly identical in size and form
factor, the two configurations differ in a few key features which specialize them for their
respective applications.

Instruments with the LGR designation (ie. AML-3 LGR described in this manual) are
self-powered via a rechargeable internal battery and have a mechanical on/off switch adjacent
to their shackle. These instruments are designed to internally log sensor measurements and
transfer data post-deployment. These instruments are most commonly used for multiparameter
profiling such as CTD, SVP, etc.

Real-Time instruments, in contrast, are designed to stream data while in-situ (though they have
the ability to internally record data as well). Both power and communication to these instruments
is facilitated via a waterproof connector located adjacent to the shackle. These instruments rely
on external power for operation and the application of this power turns the instrument on in lieu
of a mechanical switch. These instruments are commonly used in moored applications, buoys,
underwater observatories, and ROVs.

This manual describes the operation of the Logger version, the AML-3 LGR.

1.1 Instrument Overview

AML-3 instruments are highly customizable and so may be equipped with a wide range of
user-specific sensors, functionality, and features. The instrument described here is intended to
be a representative example of a typical setup and therefore may not be identical to the
Reader’s unit. The Reader is directed to any unit-specific supplementary documentation
provided with their instrument for information on features and functionality not described here.

Figure 1 depicts a typical AML-3 LGR arrangement.

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NOTE: Different cage lengths are
available, depending on the sensor
payload. Shown above is the shortest
cage option.

Figure 1: A typical AML-3 LGR

arrangement. The arrangement shown
here is representative only and may
differ from the Reader’s instrument.

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By default, AML-3 LGR instruments come equipped with a shackle, a USB-C connector, a
power switch, and a status indicator LED. The shackle has a hole coincident with the axis of the
instrument to facilitate suspension during deployment.

The end of the instrument opposite the shackle houses the sensor payload which is
mechanically protected by a thread-on cage. In some configurations the cage may be different
lengths depending on the sensors installed.

Typical specifications of an AML-3 LGR are described in the table below.

Specifications:

Model 500m 6000m

Depth rating 500 meters [1640 feet] 6000 meters [19685 feet]

Material Acetal, 316 stainless steel, Acetal, 316 stainless steel, titanium,
titanium, polycarbonate polycarbonate

GPS Capability Yes No

Data storage 30 GB 30 GB

Software Sailfish Sailfish

Communication USB-C USB-C

WiFi

Maximum 20 Hz 20 Hz
Sample Rate
Note: Sampling by pressure or Note: Sampling by pressure or
sound velocity increment is also sound velocity increment is also
available. available.

Power 4 cell rechargeable internal battery 4 cell rechargeable internal battery

45Wh capacity 45Wh capacity

PC or wall charging over USB PC or wall charging over USB (10W

(10W minimum) minimum)

Note: USB ports of some PC and Note: USB ports of some PC and
laptops may not meet the minimum laptops may not meet the minimum
charging requirement of the charging requirement of the
instrument. It is highly instrument. It is highly
recommended to use the included recommended to use the included
USB Wall Charger for charging the USB Wall Charger for charging the
instrument. instrument.

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 Temperature
Operation -20 to +45°C -20 to +45°C
Storage -20 to +60°C -20 to +60°C

Dimensions
Diameter 7.6 cm / 3.0 in 7.6 cm / 3.0 in
Length 33.4 cm / 13.15 in (SVP set up) 33.4 cm / 13.15 in (SVP set up)
Weight* 1.36 kg / 3.00 lb 2.5 kg / 5.6 lb
Weight in water* .69 kg / 1.52 lb 1.9 kg / 4.1 lb
*With a medium cage and no sensors, deployed weights will vary

1.2 Communicating with the Instrument

The preferred method of communication (setup, downloading data, etc.) is through the use of
WiFi (500m only, for a 6000m use USB-C). By default, the instrument automatically sets up a
WiFi hotspot upon startup, allowing WiFi-enabled computers, laptops, and tablets to directly
connect.

The 500m versions of AML-3 LGRs contain a USB-WiFi dongle. Use of the dongle is not
required (any WiFi adapter will connect to the instrument) but it does provide a convenient
method for allowing a compatible PC to host two WiFi connections - the on-board WiFi adapter
to remains connected with the local network, and the USB adapter to connects directly to the
instrument. AML’s software, Sailfish, allows the user to selectively use available WiFi adapters
to connect to the instrument. If you want to connect over WiFi without Sailfish, the password is
the serial number twice. For example, AML_A30001 has a password of A30001A30001. Note:
You should never be required to enter the password when connecting with Sailfish.

AML-3 LGR instruments come equipped with a USB-C connector with waterproof cover. This
connector provides power to the instrument when connected to a compatible USB port or wall
wart. This connector is also used as a secondary means for data transfer (downloading
internally logged data) and may be configured via AML’s interface software, Sailfish. Note: This
connector is only waterproof when the protective cover is installed. It is not intended for
use when deployed. Do not remove the waterproof cover when the instrument is wet.
Applying connector grease to the port can increase resistance to damage from a splash
of water when the cover is off.

AML-3 LGR instruments come with a USB-C to USB-A adapter cable to maximize PC
compatibility. The instrument may be connected to any USB-C port using a standard USB-C
interconnect cable, so if the provided cable is lost it is feasible to purchase an off the shelf
replacement, provided the cable is rated to handle 5W. Generally speaking the shorter the cable
the better.

See Appendix F - USB FAQ for USB-related questions.

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1.3 Charging the Instrument
The AML-3 LGR instrument uses an internal battery for operation. The battery typically requires
a charging top-up when the instrument is first received by the user.

The battery must be charged when the LED indicator flashes red, failure to maintain charge in
the battery can cause damage to the instrument.

The instrument is charged via its USB-C connector, either through connection with a compatible
USB port or via the provided wall wart (recommended). Note that it is common for USB ports to
have insufficient power to simultaneously charge and operate the instrument, so it is
recommended that the wall wart be used to charge the instrument. The instrument body may
get warm during charging. This is normal and a result of the instrument’s fast-charge
capability.

Applying power through the USB-C connector does not automatically turn the instrument on,
and the instrument may be charged with the switch in either the ‘on’ or ‘off’ position. Charging is
fastest with the switch set to ‘off’ - typically on the order of 8hrs.

When deploying an AML-3 LGR Instrument where the indicator cannot be viewed directly, it is
recommended the internal battery thresholds be modified to protect the internal battery from
completely discharging, causing damage to the instrument. The command for this can be found
in Section 5 under the power commands. AML recommends increasing the battery shutdown
voltage to 6.9V in this deployment case.

1.4 Auxiliary Sensors

It is possible for AML-3 instruments to be equipped with sensors which are not installed on the
instrument sensor endcap, such as Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and PAR sensors. These are
referred to as auxiliary sensors and may be either fastened to the side of the instrument body or
installed on adjacent moored equipment. In all cases, auxiliary sensors are connected to the
instrument via a waterproof connector on the Connector Endcap, providing power and
communication (note that Figure 1 does not show any auxiliary sensors).

It is typical for auxiliary sensors mounted on the side of the instrument to be protected by a
stainless steel guard.

1.5 GPS Functionality (500m Only)

AML-3 LGR instruments come equipped with on-board GPS + GLONASS functionality. The
instrument will automatically power its GPS module and begin signal acquisition immediately
upon bootup. In general, lock times are expected to occur in 5 minutes or less after bootup,
though they may take longer in challenging conditions. For best GPS performance, ensure the
instrument is located outdoors and with a direct line of sight to the horizon and sky above. It is

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also recommended that the instrument be powered on in advance of taking a profile to allow
sufficient time for signal acquisition.

Note that a GPS lock is not required for instrument functionality; data will be logged regardless
of acquisition status.

It is possible to configure Sailfish to assign location coordinates to the instrument as provided by

an external GPS broadcast on board a vessel. See the Connecting a GPS Listener section for
more details.

Sailfish enables a feature called Offline Assist to improve GPS lock times. Details can be found
in the GPS Offline Assist section.

1.6 Indicator LED Flash Patterns

The instrument is equipped with a multi-colour indicator LED, located adjacent to the shackle.
The tables below describe the pattern and colour indications.

Steady Double flash3 Pulsing Flashing

(solid on) __.__. ...

Green Ready2 GPS - Logging

Battery good acquiring1,2
Battery good

Red Ready2 GPS - Logging

Battery low acquiring1,2
Battery low

Orange/ White/ - - Boot up or boot -

Blue down sequence.

White - - - Error state

Orange - - Charging -

1 - The instrument may be deployed with GPS acquiring. Data will be recorded but location information
will be absent. Flash patterns are specific to LGR instruments, RT instruments may display different
indications.

2 - The instrument may be deployed in any of these states. Data will be logged.
3 - 6000m AML-3 LGR instruments do not have on board GPS. Double-flash will not occur.

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1.7 Pressure Ratings
Pressure ratings may differ between installed sensors and the instrument body, and
deployments should never exceed the shallower of these ratings. For example, a 500m
instrument equipped with a 6000dBar pressure sensor is limited to deployments of 500m depth
or less. Similarly, a 6000m instrument equipped with a 500dBar pressure sensor is also limited
to deployments of 500m depth or less.

The instrument pressure rating is identified on the end of the instrument, adjacent to the
shackle. Typical ratings for AML-3 LGR instruments are 500m and 6000m.

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2 Getting Started
This section provides an overview of basic instrument operation and functionality under a
factory-default setup. Specifically, this section describes how to connect to the instrument,
change settings via interface software, stream sensor measurements, and record and download
data.

Details describing how to change the instrument’s configuration and behaviour are described in
the Configuration section of this document.

2.1 Getting started with Sailfish via USB-C or Wifi Connection

The preferred (but not the only) method of communicating with the instrument is via AML’s
software interface, Sailfish; a user-friendly GUI-based platform which allows users to configure
an instrument, observe live sensor measurements (live data streaming), and download logged
data. Sailfish may be downloaded free of charge from the AML Oceanographic website
(www.AMLoceanographic.com).

Sailfish provides the easiest means of adjusting the instrument’s configuration. Advanced
commands exist, however, and may be applied via command line. Refer to section Configuring
an Instrument later in this document for more details.

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To use Sailfish to configure the AML-3 LGR instrument, follow the procedure described below:

1. Download the Sailfish install file from the AML website and follow the on-screen
installation instructions. Sailfish is compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10.
a. Note: be sure to enable both private and public network access if prompted
during installation.
2. Turn the instrument on using the power switch. When the switch is set to the ‘on’ position
the instrument will commence its bootup sequence, indicated by an alternating colour
pattern on the status indicator LED. The boot sequence is complete when the status
LED is green. Typically boot duration is about 10 seconds.
3. Start Sailfish and wait for the software to load. When loaded, navigate to the Devices
tab.
4. If you open Sailfish before connecting your instrument, you will need to click on the
‘Refresh’ button for your instrument to appear.
5. Connect the instrument to the PC via WiFi (preferred) or the included USB-C cable. If
using the USB-C connector, the user’s PC may produce the default USB-device
connection chime when recognition and setup is successful.
a. Note that if using the USB-C connection, the instrument may commence charging
its internal battery. The instrument is equipped with fast-charge capabilities so it
may become warm during this time.
b. 6000m AML-3 LGR instruments do not have WiFi; connection must be done via
USB-C.
6. A tile corresponding to available instrument connections will appear in the Devices tab of
Sailfish. A small icon in the corner of the tiles denotes the corresponding connection
method. Either WiFi or USB-C may be selected.
a. Note: If connection difficulties are encountered, restart the PC. This solves the
majority of connection issues.
7. Select the appropriate tile and click ‘Connect’.
8. Click the gear icon on the instrument tile to open the Instrument Settings page. Follow
the on-screen instructions to configure the instrument as desired.

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 a. Note: A common action at this step is to tare the pressure sensor if required. This
is achieved by clicking the Gear Icon and selecting Tare Pressure Sensor.
9. The user is encouraged to explore the Instrument Settings page to familiarize
themselves with typical settings.
10. Optional: a common step for first time users is to commence real-time measurement
(data) streaming from the instrument. This is achieved through the Live Data tab in
Sailfish.

To disconnect the instrument unplug the USB-C cable or click the ‘Disconnect’ button.

2.2 Conducting a Profile

The typical workflow for conducting a profile is as follows:

1. Turn the instrument on and connect it to Sailfish using either WiFi (preferred) or USB-C
(refer Getting Started) and confirm the instrument’s battery status and configuration. Be
sure to tare the pressure sensor if required.
2. The instrument’s indicator LED will flash if it is attempting to acquire a GPS signal. If
GPS is locked, the instrument’s LED will turn solid. Refer the LED Flash Patterns in
Section 1.5 for more details.
a. Note that an instrument may be deployed without a GPS lock. Data will still be
logged, but the location data will be absent.
b. In the absence of a GPS lock, an instrument may be manually provided with GPS
coordinates in the Instrument Settings page.
3. If settings are correct, then ensure the instrument is ready for immersion by confirming
that the USB-C connector cover is in place. Do not deploy the instrument without the
USB-C cover threaded completely onto the connector.
4. The instrument may be deployed at any time. If connected via WiFi, there is no need to
select the Disconnect button in Sailfish.
5. Lower the instrument into the water until its shackle sits just below the water line and its
indicator LED is visible. In most applications, the instrument is suspended by its shackle
from a downrigger, crab puller, or other mechanical device.
6. By default, the instrument will create a new log file and begin to record (log) data
automatically upon water detection.
a. Water detection is achieved by monitoring the measurements of an installed
Sound Velocity or Conductivity sensor. This behaviour is configurable through
advanced commands.
7. When in water and recording data, the instrument’s indicator LED will flash, confirming
operation. The instrument may then be lowered to the desired depth.
8. If the instrument was connected via WiFi then it’s connection to Sailfish will be lost (by
default, the instrument will turn its WiFi off when in water). Sailfish will recognize this
action and sit idle, awaiting for the instrument to return to the surface.

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 9. When the desired depth is achieved, retrieve the instrument and pull it completely out of
the water. The instrument will close it’s log file when it detects that it is out of water.
10. When out of water the instrument will turn it’s WiFi back on. Sailfish will automatically
detect the return of the instrument and connect.
a. Note: If the instrument’s WiFi connection was manually disconnected from
Sailfish prior to deployment (by pressing Disconnect), then the instrument will
need to be manually re-connected to Sailfish by the user.
b. If re-connecting via USB-C, dry the instrument prior to removing the USB-C
waterproof cover.
11. Upon (re)-connection, Sailfish will recognize new log files available for download.
Automatic downloads can be enabled in Sailfish, but this is not the default setting.
12. New log files may be viewed, plotted, and exported in various formats using the Data
Manager tab in Sailfish.

2.3 Connecting a GPS Listener

Sailfish has the ability to connect to an external GPS listener so that GPS location data may be
sent to an instrument. To set up an external listener, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the Devices page and click on the ‘Add Listener’ button. Select ‘GPS
Listener.

2. To configure the GPS listener settings, click the ‘Gear Icon’ on the listener tile.
3. Configure the settings according to your external GPS listener device. Both serial and
UDP connections are supported. Sailfish will remember your GPS listener settings and

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 automatically connect next time you add the listener.

4. If the listener has been configured correctly, position data will be displayed in the tile and
the location icon will turn green.

5. It is now possible to sync the external listener location to the instrument by clicking the
‘Instrument Settings’ icon on the Device Tile and selecting ‘Sync GPS to Listener’

6. If your instrument’s location mode was previously set to ‘GPS’, you will be prompted to
set it to ‘Manual’. Doing this will tell the instrument to ignore it’s on-board GPS module.

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 This synced position information will be stored and used in newly created log files until
the instrument’s location is either synced again or the Location Mode is set back to
‘GPS’. This can be done on the Instrument Settings page.
7. If connection to the GPS listener is lost, you can still sync to the last known location until
you disable the GPS listener or close Sailfish.
8. To automatically sync your instrument to the GPS listener every time you reconnect to
Sailfish, enable the ‘Auto Update Instrument Location” setting.

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3 Configuration using Sailfish
To configure with Sailfish, reference the Getting Started with Sailfish section.

Settings most commonly configured via Sailfish are detailed below.

3.1 Sampling Mode

Setting Description

Sample Trigger Sets the variable that determines when a

sample is taken. Options are time, pressure
increment, sound velocity increment, and
continuous (20Hz) sample rate.

Sample Unit Available when time is selected as the

sample trigger. Options are /second (per
second), /minute (per minute), /hour (per
hour), seconds, minutes and hours.

Sample Rate Available when time is selected as the

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 sample trigger. Works with Sample Unit
setting to determine sample rate.

For example, entering 10 with the sample unit

set to seconds would result in a sample taken
every 10 seconds. Changing the sample unit
to /second would result in samples taken 10
times per second.

Pressure Increment Available when pressure increment is set as

the sample trigger. Sets the pressure
increment (in dBar) when a sample should be
taken.

Sound Increment Available when sound velocity is selected as

the sample trigger. Sets the sound velocity
increment (in m/s) when a sample should be
taken.

3.2 Log parameters

These settings control which parameters are included in the data stream and the generated log
file. Note that some parameters require specific sensor configurations to be calculated. Options
include date, time, density, salinity, calculated sound velocity, battery, depth, and raw values.

3.3 Instrument Time and Location

Setting Description

Date and Time Source Select the clock to synchronize the

instrument to. Options are the connected
computer’s clock, or GPS.

Location Mode Select the GPS source to synchronize the

instrument to. Options are Instrument
(internal GPS), manual (external GPS), and
none.

3.4 Power Management

Setting Description

In-Water WiFi Sleep Specify if the WiFi chip should be disabled while
underwater or not.

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 In-Water WiFi Sleep Timeout The amount of time before the WiFi chip will be disabled
(secs) once the instrument detects that it is underwater.

Power Timeout Specify if the instrument should turn itself off if left idle.

Power Timeout (minutes) The amount of minutes left idle before the instrument turns
itself off.

3.5 Manage Files

View storage capacity and download or delete files stored on the device.

3.6 Firmware Updates

View current OS and controller firmware versions and check for and install updates.

3.7 Command Prompt

A command window for sending other commands to the instrument. See 5 Appendix A - Full
Command List for details on commands.

3.8 GPS Offline Assist

Enables Sailfish to transfer GPS satellite data files over to the instrument to improve GPS lock
times. If enabled, Sailfish will download the latest GPS satellite position data once per day
(requires internet connection) and transfer the Offline Assist data to the instrument upon
connecting. The instrument will utilize the transferred satellite data during its next boot
sequence to reduce GPS lock time.

Sailfish will download satellite data forecasted for the next 20 days, however data forecasted
beyond approximately 5 days tends to be less accurate. For optimal performance, it is
recommended that Sailfish be provided an internet connection daily to ensure up to date GPS
information.

This setting is found in the Sailfish application settings.

Setting Description

Enable Offline Assist Enables Sailfish to download Offline Assist data from the
internet and send it to the connected instrument. This can
dramatically improve GPS lock times.

Offline Assist Last Download Specifies the last day that Offline Assist data was
Date downloaded.

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4 Contact AML
Service
To request an RMA or technical support

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 1-250-656-0771

Phone: 1-800-663-8721 (NA)

http://www.AMLoceanographic.com

Sales
For all general sales inquiries

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 1-250-656-0771

Phone : 1-800-663-8721 (NA)

http://www.AMLoceanographic.com

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5 Appendix A - Full command list
All of the commonly utilized settings are accessible via GUI using Sailfish. However, Sailfish
does not provide GUI access to the entire command set; advanced functionality beyond
common settings exists. This advanced functionality is described here.

These commands are applied to the instrument via command line. This is achieved by using the
Advanced Commands section of the bottom of the Instrument Settings page in Sailfish.

5.1 Sampling commands

Command Description

set sample <rate> [/second | /minute, /hour | Set the rate at which the instrument logs and
seconds | minutes | hours | max] monitors data from the sensors. Maximum
sample rate is 20 Hz.

set scan mode [burst | single] Switch between single and burst mode. When
the instrument is in burst mode it will sample
in bursts at a set interval. Note that the burst
duration must be less than or equal to the
burst interval.

set burst interval <interval> Set the burst interval in seconds.

Minimum: 5
Maximum: 14400

set burst samples <samples> Set the number of samples taken per burst.
Samples will be taken at the set sample rate.

Minimum: 2
Maximum: 1200

set burst monitor [samples | average] Set whether the monitor output will display all
the burst samples or an average of the
samples.

Note: averaging applies only to monitor data.

Log files will record individual samples.

display burst Display the current burst mode settings.

set trigger [time | sound | pressure] Set the sampling trigger to sample by time,
sound velocity increment or pressure
increment.

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 Sampling by sound or pressure increment is
not supported in burst mode.

set sound inc <value> Set sound velocity increment.

set pressure inc <value> Set pressure increment.

set <detection parameter> threshold <value> Set the threshold for water detection to begin
automatic logging. Valid detection parameters
are “conduct”, “sound”, and “pressure”. By
default pressure is set to 99999.99 and it is
not recommended to detect water by
pressure unless there are no sound velocity
or conductivity sensors installed.

Note: This is a secure command.

5.2 Monitor Configurations and commands

Command Description

monitor Start streaming data on the user terminal. Hit

<enter> to exit monitor, hit <enter> three
times to exit monitor when in robust mode.

mmonitor Start streaming data in AMLx format.

scan Print a single line of the latest sensor data.

mscan Print a single line of the latest sensor data in

AMLx format.

set monitor robust [y | n] Enable/disable robust monitor mode. When

enabled, monitoring is halted via 3 carriage
returns.

When disabled, a single carriage return will

halt monitoring.

set monitor auto <seconds> Monitoring will begin automatically after an

interval of inactivity. Setting to “0” disables
auto monitor.

Min value: 5

This command applies only to monitoring via

serial connection

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set monitor startup [y | n] Enable/disable monitoring on startup. When
enabled the instrument will start monitoring
when powered on.

This command applies only to monitoring via

serial connection

set monitor log [y | n] Enable/disable monitor log mode. When

enabled, the instrument will log data when
monitoring. Stopping monitor will halt logging.

Note: If LOG MODE is set to AUTO the

instrument will commence logging when in
water regardless of monitor status.

set monitor delimiter [comma | tab | space | Set the delimiter of the monitor output.
colon]

set monitor checksum [y | n] Enable/disable a 8 bit XOR checksum in the

monitor output. The checkum is appended to
each scan preceded by a “*”.

Ex.
>mon
1450.132,14.543*2B
1451.122,15.133*29

set monitor format [columns | amlx] Set the monitor output format. See Appendix
B for a description of the columns and AMLx
formats.

Note that checksum does not appear in log

files.

display monitor Print the current monitor settings.

5.3 Log File Format/Monitor Output

Command Description

set scan <parameter> Add a parameter to be included in the log file

and monitor output.

Optional Parameters:
date
time
bat (Battery)

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 dep (Calculated Depth)
sal (Calculated Salinity)
den (Calculated Density)
sound (Calculated Sound Velocity)

Note: Calculated parameters will output

-99.9999 if outside of the valid range of the
calculation formula.

set scan no<parameter> Remove a parameter from being included in

the log file and monitor output.

set derive <parameter> [y | n] Enable/disable a parameter to be calculated if

the required sensors are installed.

Derived Parameters:
depth (from pressure)
salc (salinity from conductivity)
salsv (salinity from sound velocity)
density (requires salinity)
sv (sound velocity, requires salinity)

Note: a parameter will only be output if it is

ALSO included in monitor scans. Refer ‘SET
SCAN’ command, above.

5.4 UV Antifouling
Note that these commands apply only in the instance of a UV system installed on the
instrument.

Command Description

display uv Print the current UV settings.

set uv time <ontime> <offtime> Set the duty cycle of the UV lantern in seconds.

Note: Setting UV time to 0 0 will disable light emission.

5.5 Data Logging

Command Description

display status Print the current logging status, including in-water status,
number of samples recorded, log duration, and sample
rate.

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set logmode [auto | manual] By default logmode will be set to “auto” and will
automatically start logging when the water immersion is
detected.

logon Start logging when log mode is set to manual.

logoff Stop logging when log mode is set to manual.

set filetype [columns | amlx | all] Set the file type that data will be logged to. The columns
format has file extension “.aml” while the amlx format has
extension “.amlx”. If ALL is selected, two files will be
created, one in each format. See Appendix B for more
details on these two formats.

dir Display files present in the log directory.

5.6 Help
Command Description

display options Displays a full list of all configurable settings and their current
values.

help Displays a menu of all commands.

5.7 Communication commands

Command Description

set baud <baud rate> Set the serial baud rate for the instrument. All standard baud rates
between 9600 and 115200 are accepted. Default is 115200.

Note: This command takes immediate effect. Users must change

the BAUD rate of their terminal program.

5.8 Sensor commands

Command Description

display sensors Print information about all connected sensors.

rawtalk <port> Start a rawtalk session with a connected sensor. Send <1s
pause>+++<1s pause> to exit the rawtalk session.

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5.9 System commands
Command Description

set fulltime <yyyy-mm-dd> Set the system date and time.

<hh:mm:ss>

reset factory Restore the device’s factory settings.

reset user Restore the device’s user settings.

display memory Print the SD card’s total and used memory in bytes.

display version Print the version header, including the model name,
firmware version, serial number, and total space of the
installed SD card.

display volt Print the current battery voltage.

secure on Enables the user to send “secure” commands. Secure mode

is not persistent through multiple telnet sessions or a power
cycle.

5.10 GPS commands

Command Description

set gnss mgadbd [y | n] Enable/disable GPS database dump to enable GPS warm
start. If enabled, the GPS module will store almanac data
that will improve lock times after a recent fix has been lost.
Enabling this feature generally improves GPS lock times.

Note: This is a secure command.

set gnss offline [y | n] Enable/disable GPS offline assist. Requires connecting to

Sailfish with an active internet connection at least once
every 5 days. Offline data will help improve lock times on
power up.

Note: This is a secure command.

5.11 Power commands

Command Description

poweroff Turn the instrument off indefinitely, until the power dial

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 switch is toggled or external power cycled.

hibernate <minutes> Turn the instrument off for a set amount of minutes.

set wakeonpower [y/n] Once enabled, the instrument will stay on until a Power Off
command is issued or poweroff timeout has occurred.

Note: This is a secure command.

set powerofftimeout <minutes> Set the instrument’s idle timeout in minutes. If there is no
user interaction and the instrument is idling, i.e. not
streaming data or logging, the instrument will power down
after the set timeout.
Setting the timeout to 0 disables this feature.

set batwarning <voltage> Set the threshold for the low battery warning to be triggered.
If triggered the indicator led will turn red to notify users to
charge the instrument.

Note: This is a secure command.

set batshutdn <voltage> Set the threshold for the low battery shutdown to be
triggered. If the instrument’s battery voltage drops below this
threshold the instrument will shut down.

It is not recommended to set this lower than 6.2 V.

Note: This is a secure command.

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6 Appendix B - Output Formats
AML-3 series instruments support two monitoring formats: a column-based format whereby all
transmitted data is organized into vertical columns, and a proprietary self-describing format
referred to as AMLx.

The commands to adjust monitor formats are described in 5.2 Monitor commands.

6.1 Column-Based Format

The factory default of an AML-3 instrument is column-based formatting, typically using a comma
delimiter (the delimiter is configurable). This format is preferred for applications where human
readability of the raw data is required as it is easy to quickly parse and interpret the scrolling
columns of measurements.

The disadvantage of this format is that the user must have knowledge of the meta-data to
correctly interpret the readings. The relevant meta-data is obtained by issue the following
command:

>DIS SENSORS

[MeasurementMetadata]
Columns=Date,Time,Cond,TempCT,Pressure,SV,Depth
Units=yyyy-mm-dd,hh:mm:ss.ss,mS/cm,C,dbar,m/s,m

>MONITOR

>2020-05-27,18:59:26.03,5.122,24.044,10.09,1459.111,10.07
...

It is assumed the sensor meta-data is uniformly applicable to every line. that the number of
columns, order of columns, and units of each measurement never change. This assumption
makes the format extremely inflexible. Users are strongly discouraged from creating drivers
that rely on this output format.

6.2 AMLx Format

The AMLx format is a proprietary self-describing string that does not rely on assumed static
meta-data for interpretation. Each sentence contains sufficient information to contextualize the
measurement data provided.

The general format of AMLx is:

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msg<MsgNumber>{mux[meta=time,<UnixEpochTime>,s][data=uv,<status>],port<PortNumbe
r>[data=<ParameterName>,<Value>,<ParameterUnits>][rawi=<RawParameterName>,<Raw
Value>,<RawUnits>]}

Sample output in this format is shown below.

>MONITOR

>msg138{mux[meta=time,1590605500.55,s],port1[data=Cond,0.000000,mS/cm][rawi=ADC,563,none][dat
a=TempCT,23.881313,C][rawi=ADC,428710,none],port2[data=Pressure,0.071390,dbar][rawi=ADC,84447
0,2sComp],port3[data=SV,0.000000,m/s][rawf=NSV,0.000000,samples],derive[data=Depth,0.070998,m]}

In this format every measurement has, at minimum, an explicit unit, parameter, and port
association. A driver written to interpret this format is able to understand output from every
X2Change generation instrument regardless of specific sensor or derived parameter
configuration. Users are strongly encouraged to use drivers that rely on this output
format.

Parameter names:

Parameter name Description

SV Sound velocity

TempSVT Temperature from an SVT.X2 sensor

Cond Conductivity

TempCT Temperature from a CT.X2 sensor.

Pressure Pressure

Turbidity Turbidity

Dissolved Oxygen Dissolved Oxygen

DOM CDOM/FDOM

Chloro-blue Chlorophyll, blue excitation

Chloro-red Chlorophyll, red excitation

pH pH

Fluorescein Fluorescein dye

Oil-crude Crude oil

Oil-fine Fine oil

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Brighteners Optical brighteners

Phycocyanin Phycocyanin (freshwater cyanobacteria)

Phycoerythrin Phycoerythrin (marine cyanobacteria)

PTSA PTSA

Rhodamine Rhodamine

Tryptophan Tryptophan

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7 Appendix C - Calculated Parameters
The AML-3 instrument has the ability to calculate certain parameters depending on your sensor
configuration. Below is a table outlining the parameters that can be calculated.

Parameter Required Sensors Equation Range

Salinity C, T, P Practical Salinity Scale 1978 0 - 90 PSU1

Salinity (from SV) SV, T, P AML 0 - 90 PSU

Density C,T, P TEOS10 0 - 2000 kg/m3

Density (from SV) SV,T, P TEOS10 0 - 2000 kg/m3

Sound Velocity* C,T, P Chen & Millero 0 - 3000 m/s

Depth P UNESCO -20 - 12000 m

C - conductivity, T- temperature, SV - sound velocity, P- pressure

1 - Instrument will report 0-90 PSU, however PSS-78 equation is valid only from 2-50 PSU.

*Calculated salinity must be enabled for the calculated Sound Velocity to operate correctly

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8 Appendix D - Equipping an Instrument
AML-3 instruments are shipped from the factory with sensors installed and configured. Users
are generally not required to remove or install sensors in the course of normal operation.
However, there are instances where a user may install or uninstall a sensor such as modifying a
sensor payload, returning individual sensors to the factory for calibration, or sending a sensor in
for service. AML series instruments and sensors are designed to be user-swappable for
maximum flexibility.

8.1 X2Change™ Sensors

X2Change™ sensors are installed on the AML-3 sensor end cap. There are 3 sensor ports
available and 1 port for an optional UV Antifouling system. Sensors are installed or removed by
hand with no special tools required. Most combinations of X2Change™ sensors are permitted
(See notes on installing sensors).

8.1.1 Removing Sensors

1. If a UV antifouling system is installed, the retaining clip must be removed prior to
removing the sensor cage.

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 2. Configuring the sensors on the end cap is easiest
when the sensor cage is removed. Use 1/8” hex
tool to remove the screws when attaching or
detaching the sensor cage.

3. Rotate the orange locking sleeve of the sensor you wish to remove counter-clockwise
until you can gently pull the X2Change™ sensor from the sensor port.

8.1.2 Installing Sensors

1. Before installing X2Change™ sensors, ensure that the instrument socket is clean and
dry.

2. Check the X2Change™ sensor’s o-rings for cleanliness and replace if damaged. Apply
o-ring grease to the new o-ring before replacing it.

3. Align the sensor with the sensor port so that the lock and key of the lemo connectors are
aligned.

4. Place the sensor into the port.

5. Push the sensor until it drops down into the port enough to allow the orange locking
sleeve threads to engage the port threads.

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 6. Screw down the orange locking sleeve until it stops. The bottom of the sleeve should be
within 1 mm of the instrument end cap.

Notes:

● X2Change™ sensors are identified by their orange locking sleeve matching AML-3's
orange sensor port.

● Older AML Xchange™ sensors with blue locking sleeves are not compatible with the
AML-3 line of instruments.

● CT X2Change™ should be installed in AML-3 port 1 due to the mechanical fit between
the sensor and the cage. All other X2Change™ sensors can be installed in any of the 6
sensor ports.

● A sensor riser may be required when installing a CT X2Change™ if other tall

X2Change™ sensors are installed nearby.

8.2 Seals and Plugs

Before deployment, ensure that every empty X2Change™ sensor port is sealed with the
X2Change™ Blanking Plug, the USB-C port is capped, and each MCBH is plugged with its
dummy plug or cable. Contact AML Support to replace lost plugs or caps.

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9 Appendix E - Long Term Storage
Recommendations
AML recommends fully charging the internal battery of the instrument before storage, as well as
re-charging the instrument fully every 6 months. Failure to maintain battery charge can damage
the instrument.

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10 Appendix F - USB FAQ
Question Answer

Can I charge my instrument using my Yes, but note that some USB ports on computers
computer’s USB port? cannot deliver the power that is required by the
instrument for charging (10 Watts). We highly
recommend using the included AC-DC Wall
Adapter for charging your instrument.

I cannot communicate to the instrument 1. Check if your computer’s USB port is USB
via USB, what should I be checking? 3.1 or later. Some USB ports will tend to
shut down due to the output power limit.
2. Use a powered USB hub that supports
USB 3.1 connectivity. Contact AML for
approved USB hubs that are tested with
our instruments.

Can I use a different USB-C cable for AML highly recommends using the
charging/communicating to the factory-supplied USB cable. In cases where you
instrument? have to use a different one, you may do so but
AML cannot guarantee that it meets the required
specification in order to work seamlessly with our
instrument.

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11 Appendix G - Regulatory Information
This product is compliant within the requirements of CE standards.

The WiFi adaptor used in this instrument is a certified radio module under the following
regulatory bodies:

FCC Part 15.247 Intentional Radiator FCCID: Z64-WL18SBMOD

Certification

Industry Canada RSS-210 IC ID: 451I-WL18SBMOD

Japan Certificates 201-135370

12 Appendix H - Warranty Statement

AML Warranty Policy: New Product (Instrumentation)
AML warrants the instrument and sensor for a period of TWO YEARS (24 months) from the date
of delivery. AML will repair or replace, at its option and at no charge, components which prove to
be defective. The warranty applies only to the original purchaser of the instruments and only to
instruments and sensors manufactured by AML Oceanographic. The warranty of third party
sensors will apply as per the specific vendor’s warranty policy. The warranty does not apply if
the instrument has been damaged, by accident or misuse, and is void if repairs or modifications
are made by other than authorized personnel.

This warranty is the only warranty for new products given by AML. No warranties implied by law,
including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose shall apply. In no event will AML be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential or
incidental damages resulting from any defects or failure of performance of any instrument
supplied by AML.

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