Troubleshooting Sensor Problems

How to troubleshoot various problems that you might have with the sensor.

---

The Sensor is Not Sampling Data

Recommended Actions

Determine Sensor Compatibility

• Is the sensor supported?

  • Check the list of supported sensors.

  • If not listed, contact Support for guidance.

• If supported:

  • Review the sensor's datasheet.

  • Check wiring at the Data Logger connector side.

For Modbus sensors, consult the manufacturer manual for:

• Default sensor address

• Modbus register mapping

• Endian type (Big/Little)

• Offset value

• Measurement units

Check Channel Configuration

1. In STREAM MANAGEMENT, identify the sample group of the channel.

2. Go to ADVANCE DEVICE CONFIGURATION > SampleGroup > GROUP > [group folder].

3. Ensure group_active is set to AS_ON or AS_ON_HOLD.

4. Confirm group_sample_interval_sec is > 0.

5. From FW 2.32.x, channels must belong to a group.

Verify parameters:

• channel_type

• wakeup_time_ms

• sample_power_source (analog)

• sensor_power_source (serial)

For serial channels also verify:

• bus_baud

• bus_parity

• interface_type

• sample_handler

• read_addr, slave_addr, read_type, read_flags

• Data bits, Stop bits

---

Troubleshooting Sensor Data Loss

If sensor data suddenly stops:

a) Review Recent Actions

• Check last commands sent

• Inspect Boot count (Device > Health)

• Check power status (internal/external)

• Determine if all streams or just one stopped

b) Inspect Environmental Factors

• Review Internal Humidity stream

• Check relevant channels in STREAM MANAGEMENT

• Consider if site maintenance was performed:

  • Sensor replaced or disconnected

  • Desiccant or battery replaced

  • Antenna replaced

Restore Configuration

• Use Restore Configuration in the UI

• If sensor never worked: request wiring/installation photos

---

Handling Modbus Errors in Serial Sensors

If sensor returns values like -2147483648:

Modbus Errors

Check Sensor Configuration

• Verify sensor’s power source

• If using device power, check battery health

Review Changes

• Look for recent config edits

Check Wiring

• Inspect serial wiring

• If unsure, send photos to Support

---

Dealing with Outlying Values from Ultrasonic Sensors

Ultrasonic sensors may misread due to mist, foam, turbulence.

• Use “Viewing and Editing the Treatment of Raw Data” to hide outliers in reports

• Hidden outliers remain visible in the Samples tab

If frequent:

• Reassess sensor suitability

• Contact Support

---

Analog 4–20 mA Sensor Out-of-Range Values

If values fall < 3500 µA or > 20500 µA:

Measure Voltage at Analog Port

• Powered by device: Measure between Supply (+) and Negative (-)

• Powered externally: Measure between Signal (+) and Negative (-)

• Device supplies power intermittently (every 1–5 min, for 100ms–2 sec)

• If 12VDC, check analog cable

• If not 12VDC, device may be damaged/off/misconfigured—contact Support

Measure Voltage on Analog Cable

Analog Cable

• Open connector carefully

• Measure between Signal (+) and Negative (-)

• Voltage should be 0.4V–2.1V (4000–20000 µA)

• If not, wiring or sensor may be faulty—contact Support

Measure Current Between Sensor and Device

• Use amp meter: Signal (+) on Logger to Negative (-) on sensor

Analog Cable

• Normal: 4–20 mA

• If out of range: sensor may be damaged

• If in range but issue persists: contact Support