# CPDL Deployment Guide
## Cave Passage Data Logger Installation

### Version 1.0 | December 2025

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## 1. Overview

Cave Passage Data Loggers (CPDL) are autonomous monitoring units that record environmental parameters in cave passages. This guide covers proper deployment, configuration, and maintenance procedures.

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## 2. CPDL Components

### Standard CPDL Unit
- **Main logger**: Onset HOBO MX2300 series
- **Temperature sensor**: ±0.1°C accuracy
- **Humidity sensor**: ±2% RH accuracy
- **Pressure sensor**: ±1.0 hPa accuracy
- **Battery pack**: 4 × AA lithium (1-year life)
- **Memory**: 128 MB (stores 100,000 readings)

### Optional Sensors
- **CO₂ sensor**: Vaisala GMP343 (0-10000 ppm)
- **Water level**: Solinst Levelogger Edge
- **Turbidity**: Campbell Scientific OBS-3+
- **Conductivity**: Onset HOBO U24

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## 3. Pre-Deployment Preparation

### Equipment Checklist
- [ ] CPDL main unit
- [ ] All required sensors
- [ ] Fresh batteries (lithium recommended)
- [ ] Mounting hardware (stainless steel)
- [ ] Desiccant packs
- [ ] USB data cable
- [ ] Field laptop with software
- [ ] Spare parts kit
- [ ] waterproof labels
- [ ] GPS unit for location marking

### Battery Installation
1. Open battery compartment (use Phillips screwdriver)
2. Insert 4 × AA lithium batteries
3. Check polarity indicators
4. Apply dielectric grease to contacts
5. Close and seal compartment
6. Verify power LED illuminates

### Memory Card
1. Insert microSD card (up to 32GB)
2. Format card in logger (takes 30 seconds)
3. Verify free space
4. Set file naming convention: `CAVE_YYYYMMDD`

### Sensor Calibration
- **Temperature**: Ice bath calibration (0°C)
- **Humidity**: Saturated salt test (75% RH)
- **Pressure**: Compare with reference barometer
- **CO₂**: Zero and span calibration

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## 4. Deployment Site Selection

### Criteria for Site Selection
- **Representative** of passage conditions
- **Accessible** for data download
- **Protected** from damage (flood, rockfall)
- **Stable** mounting surface
- **Avoid**: Direct airflow, drip lines, traffic areas

### Recommended Locations
- Mid-passage (not near entrances)
- 1.5-2m above floor
- Away from water flow paths
- In natural alcoves when possible

### Site Documentation
1. Photograph site before installation
2. Record GPS coordinates
3. Measure distance to nearest survey station
4. Note any special conditions
5. Sketch site map in field notebook

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## 5. Installation Procedure

### Step 1: Mount Bracket
1. Clean rock surface with wire brush
2. Apply epoxy or mechanical anchors
3. Attach stainless steel mounting plate
4. Allow epoxy to cure (follow manufacturer specs)
5. Verify bracket is level and secure

### Step 2: Install Logger
1. Attach logger to mounting plate
2. Use security screws (Torx T20)
3. Apply anti-seize compound to threads
4. Verify logger is firmly attached
5. Install protective cage if needed

### Step 3: Connect Sensors
1. Attach sensor cables to logger
2. Use cable glands for waterproofing
3. Route cables away from traffic
4. Secure cables every 30cm with clips
5. Leave service loop for temperature changes

### Step 4: Configure Logger
1. Power on logger
2. Connect via Bluetooth/USB
3. Set logging interval (10 minutes recommended)
4. Set start time (usually immediate)
5. Enable all required channels
6. Test communication

### Step 5: Final Checks
1. Verify all LEDs are functioning
2. Take test reading
3. Check signal strength
4. Close and seal enclosure
5. Take final installation photos

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## 6. Configuration Settings

### Standard Configuration
| Parameter | Setting | Rationale |
|-----------|---------|-----------|
| Logging interval | 10 minutes | Balances detail and battery life |
| Start mode | Delayed start | Avoids handling artifacts |
| Battery save | Enabled | Extends deployment life |
| Data wrap | Stop when full | Prevents overwriting |
| Temperature units | °C | Scientific standard |

### Advanced Settings
- **Burst mode**: 1-minute intervals during flood events
- **Event triggering**: Log when water level changes >10cm
- ** averaging**: 1-minute averages for turbulent flow

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## 7. Data Download Procedure

### Regular Download (Monthly)
1. Approach site carefully
2. Connect via Bluetooth (within 10m)
3. Open HOBOware software
4. Select "Readout" option
5. Save data with naming convention
6. Verify file integrity
7. Clear logger memory if needed
8. Check battery status

### Emergency Download
1. Use USB connection if Bluetooth fails
2. Remove logger if necessary (note orientation)
3. Download directly to field laptop
4. Make backup copy immediately

### Data File Naming
```

Format: CAVE_LOCATION_YYYYMMDD.csv
Example: VIKOS_GAMMA7_20251215.csv

```

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## 8. Maintenance Schedule

### Monthly Checks
- [ ] Download data
- [ ] Check battery voltage (>3.3V)
- [ ] Inspect cables for damage
- [ ] Clean sensor ports
- [ ] Verify time accuracy
- [ ] Check desiccant (replace if pink)

### Quarterly Maintenance
- [ ] Replace batteries
- [ ] Re-calibrate sensors
- [ ] Check mounting security
- [ ] Clean protective cage
- [ ] Update firmware if available

### Annual Maintenance
- [ ] Factory calibration check
- [ ] Replace desiccant
- [ ] Inspect O-rings and seals
- [ ] Test backup systems
- [ ] Review deployment location

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## 9. Troubleshooting

### Common Issues

| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---------|---------------|----------|
| No data | Dead batteries | Replace batteries |
| Gaps in data | Memory full | Download and clear |
| Erratic readings | Moisture in sensor | Dry and add desiccant |
| No Bluetooth | Distance too far | Move closer (within 10m) |
| Wrong time | Clock drift | Sync with laptop |

### Error Codes
- **E01**: Battery low - replace soon
- **E02**: Memory full - download data
- **E03**: Sensor fault - check connection
- **E04**: Temperature out of range - check placement

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## 10. Safety Considerations

### Electrical Safety
- Use insulated tools
- Avoid working in wet conditions
- Disconnect power before maintenance
- Use proper grounding

### Environmental Safety
- Check for unstable ceiling before installing
- Avoid installation during flood risk
- Use fall protection when working at height
- Have escape route planned

### Data Security
- Backup data immediately after download
- Store copies in separate locations
- Use encrypted storage for sensitive data
- Follow data sharing protocols

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## 11. Documentation Forms

### Installation Form
```

CPDL INSTALLATION LOG
Date: _______________
Installer: _______________
Location: _______________
GPS Coordinates: _______________
Logger Serial #: _______________

Sensors Installed:
□ Temperature (SN: _______)
□ Humidity (SN: _______)
□ Pressure (SN: _______)
□ CO2 (SN: _______)
□ Water Level (SN: _______)

Installation Depth: _______ m
Distance to Station: _______ m
Mounting Method: _______________

Photos Taken: □ Yes □ No
Notes: _______________

```

### Maintenance Log
```

MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
Date: _______________
Technician: _______________

Battery Voltage: _______ V
Memory Used: _______%
Download Successful: □ Yes □ No
Sensor Status: □ OK □ Issues
Desiccant Condition: □ Blue □ Pink
Mounting Secure: □ Yes □ No

Issues Found: _______________
Actions Taken: _______________
Next Scheduled: _______________

```

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## 12. References

- HOBOware Software Manual
- CPDL Technical Specification v2.1
- Cave Monitoring Standards (UIS 2024)
- Sensor Calibration Protocols

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**Document Version**: 1.0
**Last Updated**: December 2025
**Author**: Cavora Underground Research Initiative

*For technical support: cpdl@cavora.org*
