Introduction

The Aquadopp Inductive Modem (AIM) is a custom end bell for Aquadopp instruments that enables serial communication over a jacketed (electrically insulated) mooring line using electromagnetic induction. It used in conjunction with a Sea-Bird Inductive Modem (not included).

The AIM allows data to be retrieved from the instrument without requiring a dedicated underwater communication cable. Instead, communication takes place through a low-frequency signal induced in the mooring line. The Sea-Bird Inductive Modem handles communication between the mooring line and the topside system, while the Aquadopp firmware implements the Sea-Bird Inductive Modem Module (IMM) communication protocol and transfers data between the Aquadopp instrument and the IMM.

Resources and Further Information

For comprehensive information about the AIM and Sea-Bird inductive system, please refer to the following resources:

• Sea-Bird documentation for the inductive communication system. [Link]
• Aquadopp IMM Integrator Guide (communication protocol and commands). [Link]

Getting Started

To use the AIM, the instrument must be configured for inductive modem operation in Nortek Deployment before deployment.

Configure the Deployment

1. Connect to the instrument using Nortek Deployment. If needed, refer to the Get to know the instrument and Establishing a connection articles of the Support Center. Before continuing, verify that the instrument firmware is up to date.
2. Navigate to Plan & Deploy.
3. In the Hardware tab, enable the Modem option.

4. Configure the remaining deployment settings as required for your deployment.
5. Open the Telemetry tab and verify that Enable telemetry is selected.

6. Click Start deployment. Nortek Deployment automatically prompts you to perform an impedance test of the AIM clamp. Follow the instructions displayed in the software. To open and close the AIM clamp during the test, use the supplied 7/16" socket screwdriver included in the toolkit.

Battery Cradle Compatibility

The AIM requires a dedicated battery cradle designed for inductive modem operation.

If you install the AIM on an instrument using a battery cradle other than the one originally supplied with the AIM, please verify that the battery cradle is AIM-compatible before deployment.

An AIM-compatible battery cradle can be identified by the absence of the printed text located in the center of the PCB. Standard battery cradles have this marking.

If the battery cradle needs to be replaced, please refer to the Exchange batteries on the Generation 2 Aquadopp article for instructions on how to open the end-bell and replace the cradle.