Introduction; Probe Description - idronaut Ocean Seven 316 Plus CTD Operator's Manual

SECTION ONE – SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
1

INTRODUCTION

This section describes the main components of the OCEAN SEVEN 316Plus CTD multiparameter probe.
1.1

PROBE DESCRIPTION

The OCEAN SEVEN 316Plus CTD multiparameter probe is the evolution of the
well-known OCEAN SEVEN 316 probe (more than 1000 units sold all over the
world). The complete restyling of the probe electronics and the built-in 18-bit
digitizer give the OCEAN SEVEN 316Plus very advanced performance and better
CTD sensor resolution and accuracy with respect to the original OCEAN SEVEN
316. The OCEAN SEVEN 316Plus is equipped with the well-known and proven
IDRONAUT pressure balanced full ocean depth, pump free and long-term stability
sensors. Central to which, is the high accuracy seven-platinum-ring conductivity
sensor, which can be cleaned in the field without the need for re-calibration. For
added flexibility, the OCEAN SEVEN 316Plus CTD multi parameter probe can be
operated in either verbose or non-verbose modes, the latter being especially
convenient for system integrations on buoys data loggers, ROVs and AUVs,
making this CTD an ideal choice for both on-line profiling and self- recording
moored applications.
Data is output using the standard RS232C interface or the telemetry option
available for on-line full ocean depth real-time data transmission. Other interfaces
like RS422 and Wireless Bluetooth can be optionally installed.
The OCEAN SEVEN 316Plus CTD multiparameter probe can also optionally accommodate up to a
maximum of 16 sensor analogue inputs, including 2 digital inputs, which can be added later, if required,
Two external connectors, located on the top cap, provide for optional external power supplies and data
exchange with a suitable surface system. Also, on the top cap, a stainless-steel eyebolt is provided with
which to attach the probe to a cable. On the opposite end, the sensor area is protected against accidental
damage by a titanium cage. Optional copper screens can be fitted to the probe body to limit biofouling
in situations where the probe will remain immersed for extended periods of time (see description in the
dedicated appendix). The response time constant is 50ms for the CTD sensors and 3s for oxygen, pH
and redox. Software compensation is provided for changes in the internal temperature of the probe, in
order to guarantee both high performance and long-term stability. The electronic boards are fitted in a
sealed housing made of either PPS white plastic or AISI316 Stainless Steel or Titanium, depending on
pressure and weight requirements.
The OCEAN SEVEN 316Plus CTD in its basic configuration is equipped with three sensors: pressure,
temperature and conductivity. Other bulkhead sensors can be optionally added, like: highly precise
pressure transducer (0.01%), dissolved oxygen, pH, redox, reference electrode and the OEM Seapoint
Turbidity Meter. Oxygen concentration in ppm, salinity, density, sound velocity and other derived
parameters are automatically calculated according to UNESCO recommendations and formulae.
It is possible to interface external sensors or equipment like: current meters, altimeters, fluorometers,
transmissometers, PAR sensors, Rosette sampling systems, etc. The following equipment is currently
interfaced:
❖
GENERAL OCEANICS - Rosettes mod. 1018 and 1015.
❖
SBE-32 CAROUSEL
❖
IDRONAUT – MISS Miniaturized Sampling System
❖
IDRONAUT – High precision 0.01% pressure transducer.
❖
IDRONAUT - String and Weight Bottom Sensor.
❖
WET Labs - C-Star Transmissometer and ECO single/three channel Fluorometer.
❖
CHELSEA - Unilux and Trilux Fluorometers.
❖
SEAPOINT - Fluorometers and Turbidity Meter.
❖
TURNER DESIGNS – Cyclops-7 Fluorometers.
❖
D & A INSTRUMENT COMPANY - OBS-3 Sensor.
❖
LI-COR - LI-192SA Underwater and LI-193SA Spherical Underwater Quantum sensors.
IDRONAUT – Brugherio (MB)
316Plus
OCEAN SEVEN PROBE
1
03-2018