MicroSquid

MicroSquid

Description 

MicroSquid is plug-and-work compatible with the Vector ADV (or other current meters that provide analog input channels). The MicroSquid receives power from the current meter and returns two high resolution analog signals from the micro sensors. These signals are digitized and logged by the Vector. This is a simple and elegant solution that reduces the amount of hardware required for the measurement.  One of the main benefits of this configuration is that the measurements of velocities and scalar signals are perfectly synchronized. There is only one data file with columns for u, v, w, plus the scalar signals. This makes it easy to calculate covariances directly from the data file and eliminates synchronization and phase shift problems.

For extended deployments, the DataHub™ external data logger can be supplied that synchronously records data from up to four analog sensors and three velocity signals at acquisition rates up to 1024 Hz per channel. Power is supplied from external battery packs that can be dimensioned to support long deployments.

To ensure a high signal-to-noise ratio, the signal conditioning electronics for the MicroSquid are designed using the same high standards Rockland applies to their turbulence profilers. The dissolved oxygen electronics are galvanically isolated from the surrounding water using optical signal couplers. The electronics housings have internal copper cladding and electric chokes to shield against RF noise emitted by the acoustic current meter. These measures, combined with the selection of high-grade electronic components, ensure that the amplifiers operate at the theoretical thermodynamic noise level, resulting in superior signal-to-noise ratio.

Our customers use MicroSquid to measure turbulent fluxes above permeable sediments, coral reefs, and seagrass beds, as well as at the ice-water interface. The up to 500 m depth rating also permits MicroSquid deployment on deep sea benthic landers.

Download the Product Data Sheet.