Introduction to the IoE Module

Welcome, and thank you for your purchase of the IoE (Internet of the Environment) Module. If you have just taken delivery of your order, check the packaging list to be sure you received everything that you ordered. The IoE Module may include some or all of the following components and services:

  • Cellular service plan and access to LI-COR Cloud™ (1 year).
  • Backup data logging to a removable Micro SD card (all configurations).
  • Built-in charge controller for the solar power supply (all configurations).
  • Solar and battery power supply (optional).
  • Mounting structure and enclosure for sensors and equipment (optional).

The IoE Module powers sensors for continuous long-term operation, while simultaneously posting data to the LI-COR Cloud via a cellular network. It allows operators to view data and assess results from sensors without visiting the sites.

What's what

IoE configurations are given in Table 1‑1 and described in the following sections.

Table 1‑1. IoE Modules are available in a variety of configurations.
Number LI-COR Cloud IoE Module Frame and Mast Solar Power
9000-01 Yes - - -
9000-02 Yes Yes Yes Yes
9000-031 Yes Yes - -
9000-04 Yes Yes Yes -

IoE module

Part number 9000-03

The stand-alone IoE module includes the enclosure, electronics, LI-710 cable (392-20750), one year of cellular service, and one year of LI-COR Cloud data service. We recommend the optional hardware mounting kit (9000-05) with this configuration.

IoE module, mast, and frame assembly

Part number 9000-04

This configuration includes everything listed previously, plus the frame with mast, assembly hardware, instrument and guy wire adapter, earth anchor kit, grounding kit, and tool kit. The mast allows height adjustment resolution of 20 cm at heights from 2 to 5 meters.

Assembly hardware kit

The hardware kit includes parts and accessories to assemble the system.

Description Part Number
Braces; 1.25×0.5" U-channel; 39" long 98512-052
M6×1 6-mm stainless steel nylon lock nuts (4); to attach braces 157-20957
M6×1 12-mm stainless steel cap screws (4); to attach braces 151-20958
LI-710 instrument and guy wire adapter (1) 98512-013
M8×1.25 set pins (2) for instrument adapter 155-16763

Earth anchor kit

The anchoring kit includes hardware to stabilize the mast when it is extended.

Description Part Number
14-inch earth anchors with stainless steel eye-bolts (3) 609-20822
Guy wires (3); to stabilize the mast and platform 609-20846
Gripple cable locks (3) -
Gripple release key (1) 611-21003

Grounding kit

The grounding kit includes hardware for an earth-ground.

Description Part Number
Ground rod (1); 1.5 meter, steel 609-20976
Ground wire (1); 2 meters of 8-gauge copper wire 374-12937
Ground rod clasp (1); to attach ground wire to ground rod 354-20819

Tools

Several assembly tools are included.

Description Part Number
10 mm and 1/2" wrench (1) 98512-066
Multipurpose screwdriver (1) 611-07902
4 mm hex key (1) 611-21236

IoE module, mast, frame, battery, and solar panel

Part number 9000-02

The turnkey IoE Module includes everything listed previously, plus a solar panel, battery, and hardware for the solar power and battery. The panel rails provide angle adjustments to allow the solar panel to face the sun in different latitudes and seasons.

Battery kit

Part number 99512-031

The battery kit includes a 100-Ah 12-volt absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery, cables, and a bracket to secure the battery.

Description Part Number
100-Ah 12-volt AGM lead-acid battery 442-20708
Battery cable assembly 99512-022
Battery hold-down bracket 98512-065

Solar panel kit

The solar power kit includes a solar panel and hardware for the power supply.

Description Part Number
100-watt 12-volt solar panel 590-20735
Solar panel extension cables 392-20841
Solar panel bracket assemblies (2)  
Angle bracket (installed) 98512-050
U-channel bracket (installed) 98512-051
16-mm stainless steel serrated flange bolts (installed) 150-20955
M6×1 6-mm stainless steel nylon lock nuts (installed) 157-20957
1/4" stainless steel clevis pin with 1/16" cotter pin 186-20847
M6×1 12-mm stainless steel cap screws (4) 151-20958
Panel clamps (4) 98512-010

Optional mounting hardware

Part number 9000-05

Stand-alone IoE modules (9000-03) can be mounted with the mounting hardware kit, which is compatible with a vertical mast, horizontal cross arm, or pipe at nearly any angle. The kit includes two brackets, two band clamps, and additional hardware.

Warning: Do not use the optional mounting hardware with the battery kit (99512-031) or any other heavy battery. The mounting hardware (9000-05) is not strong enough to safely hold the battery, and may present a risk of injury if a battery is installed.

Optional auxiliary power cables

Power cables are used to power the IoE Module from external power (9 to 33 VDC, 3.0 A). Power cables are available in three lengths:

Description Part Number
3-meter power cable 8150-706
5-meter power cable 9975-030
25-meter power cable 9975-056

Enclosure and electronics

The enclosure houses the electronics, antennas, and other components.

Warning: Read and understand the operating instructions and safety information before using this equipment. Failure to understand the safety information may result in bodily injury, damage to equipment, or unsatisfactory results.

Components

Components of the enclosure are labeled and described below.

  • Display: Monochrome display that presents status and configuration information. See The IoE module interface for a tour.
  • Buttons: Buttons include power, navigation, select, and mount/unmount card.
  • Battery Shelf: To support the optional battery. Always use the hold-down bracket when a battery is installed.
  • Serial Number Label: The serial number label gives the product serial number, which may be useful if you need technical support.
  • Micro USB Port: To connect to a computer for manual firmware updates. Accepts a Micro-B connector.
  • Micro SD Card Slot: The slot is for the included Micro SD card to store a backup of data. An 8 GB card is included (part number 616-21301). The 8 GB card can store many years of data, typically. Most micro SD cards will work as long as there is ample free space for files. The FAT32 format is recommended.
  • Battery Cable Connector: The cable from the optional 12-volt lead-acid battery attaches to this connector.
  • Auxiliary Power Out: One auxiliary power supply is provided inside the enclosure. Contact LI-COR technical support if you want to use the power out.

External connectors

The external connectors are for sensors, auxiliary power, and solar panels.

Warning: Read and understand the operating instructions and safety information before using this equipment. Failure to understand the safety information may result in bodily injury, damage to equipment, or unsatisfactory results.

  • SDI-12 Connectors: Two connectors for SDI-12 devices. Power, configuration, and data transfer are supported. The device must have a 5-pin sealed connector. The Stevens Soil Probe available from LI-COR (part number 900-19016) has the connector. The SDI-12 power supply provides 12 VDC with a maximum of 2.5 amps total, including the Sensor Connector.
  • Sensor Connector: Accepts the LI-710 Evapotranspiration Sensor cable. It features a 5-pin sealed connector for a combined SDI-12/RS-232 port. The SDI-12 power supply provides 12 VDC with a maximum of 2.5 amps total, including the two SDI-12 connectors.
  • Auxiliary Power Input: For operation from an external power supply (other than the solar panel or battery). Supports 9 to 33 VDC, 3.0 A maximum current.
  • Solar Panel Inputs: To attach the solar panel extension cables. The maximum input is 9.15 A (circuitry is current limited to prevent damage). Compatible panels should output 17 to 21 V, with a maximum open circuit voltage of 32 V.

Warning: Do not connect solar panels with voltage rating that is higher than specified. Doing so can damage equipment or cause injury.

Compatible devices

The IoE Module supports the LI-710 Evapotranspiration Sensor and one Stevens Soil Probe. The devices are configured automatically, and data are delivered to the cloud storage repository or stored on the Micro SD card.

LI-710 Evapotranspiration Sensor

Part number LI-710

The LI-710 connects to the IoE Module with a double-terminated 5-meter cable (part number 392-20750, included with each IoE module). When paired with an IoE Module, it is a Water Node on LI-COR Cloud. LI-710 firmware v1.0.8 or newer is required for compatibility with the IoE Module and LI-COR Cloud.

Stevens HydraProbe

Part number 900-19016

The IoE Module supports a Stevens HydraProbe soil moisture (firmware v4 and above), temperature, and electrical conductivity probe with a connector-terminated cable.

Precautions

We recommend wearing sturdy work gloves during the installation and safety glasses when working with guy cables. Bring your favorite snack and some drinking water, and it'll be a good day!

Warning: Read all the instructions in this manual prior to assembling, moving, or disassembling the device.

Warning: Never cover or conceal the safety labels that are attached to the device. Doing so could lead one to fail to observe the safety warnings and sustain personal injury or damage to equipment through the use of the device.

Warning: Never step or sit on the frame or enclosure. Doing so may result in injury, death, and/or damage to equipment.