Connecting to your AWAC 2 for the first time

Install Nortek Deployment

Nortek Deployment is the primary software used to communicate with AWAC 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

AWAC 2 supports both Ethernet and serial communication. We recommend using Ethernet as the primary communication interface whenever possible. Ethernet provides faster and more reliable communication, particularly when updating firmware or downloading large amounts of data.

Ethernet communication requires the installed version of Nortek Deployment and is not available when running the application in a web browser.

Open the Connection page in Nortek Deployment and select Network. In the help panel, expand Connect to AWAC 2 and follow the step-by-step instructions to connect and power the instrument, locate it on the network, and establish the connection.

Instructions for establishing a serial connection are available from the same help panel.

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.