Connecting to your Aquadopp 2 for the first time

Install Nortek Deployment

Nortek Deployment is the primary software used to communicate with Aquadopp 2 instruments.

This software is available free of charge and can be accessed from our software webpage or downloaded directly from the Microsoft Store.

The Nortek Deployment software provides the quickest and easiest way to perform tasks such as:

1. Configuring and starting a new deployment
2. Stopping a deployment and downloading data from the recorder
3. Converting raw data to CSV or MATLAB files
4. Performing a function test of the instrument
5. Calibrating the compass and setting a pressure offset
6. Checking for and updating the instrument firmware

For information on how to navigate and use the Nortek Deployment software, including descriptions of the available options and parameters, refer to the Help tab within the software.

Connect to the instrument

Aquadopp 2 communicates with your computer through a serial connection.

Open the Connection page in Nortek Deployment. In the help panel, expand Connect to Aquadopp 2 and select the Serial article. Follow the step-by-step instructions to connect and power the instrument, select the correct serial port and baud rate, and establish the connection.

Check the firmware

After connecting, check that the instrument is running the latest firmware version. You can check for updates directly in Nortek Deployment under the Maintenance tab while connected to the instrument.

All Aquadopp 2 variants use the same firmware. The latest version can also be downloaded free of charge from the Nortek software and firmware page and installed using Nortek Deployment.

Updating the firmware formats the recorder and erases all recorded data. Download any data you want to retain before starting an update.

For general instructions, see Updating the instrument firmware

Test the instrument functionality

After connecting and completing any required firmware update, we recommend performing a function test. This allows you to verify that the instrument is functioning correctly and familiarize yourself with its sensors and the data they provide. We also recommend performing a function test before every deployment.

To perform the test, open Test instrument in Nortek Deployment and select Start function test. This starts measurements at 1 Hz. The complete procedure is available in the help panel within the software and in the following article: Function test.