Global, Low Latency, Variable Sensor Data Transfer
RockBLOCK Sense has two digital inputs that allow the device to receive signals from external variable sources such as sensors or switches. In an environmental monitoring context, these inputs can connect to various sensors for detecting rainfall, wind speed, or soil moisture. The open drain output enables triggered alerts or activates devices such as alarms or sprinkler systems based on the sensor readings.
The device provides a range of I/O that make retrieving industrial variable sensor data accessible from remote, low power, no cellular, locations. Supported by its ruggedized waterproof casing, RockBLOCK Sense retrieves your data and transmits from anywhere across the globe with a clear view of the sky.
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Low Power, Solar Compatible
RockBLOCK Sense was first conceived to meet the needs of a customer in Northern Canada who operated fracking sites. When not in active operation, the sites were at risk of flooding, and the customer needed a means of capturing water level measurements all year round. The sites are unmanned and unpowered, and temperatures can be as low as -32°C (-25.6°F). Further, there are several months when there’s limited sunshine to power a solar panel.
The satellite transceiver needed to be highly ruggedized to cope with the harsh weather conditions, and to have very low power requirements. Accordingly, RockBLOCK Sense consumes less than 380mW with a five minute value transmission interval. As shown, we connected RockBLOCK Sense to a small solar panel array, which, combined with a lithium-based cell, provides more than enough power to send two heartbeat messages per day, plus an immediate alert if water levels rise beyond pre-defined parameters.
The device is remotely managed using Cloudloop Device Manager, which allows for over-the-air updates and troubleshooting.
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- IO Capability:
1 open drain output (30V open, 100mA closed)
2 digital inputs (dry contact – 300uA wetting)
1 Analogue input configurable as either 0-10V or 4-20mA - Small and discreet, waterproof form factor (IP68 rated)
- Proven to operate at -40C and +85C
- Truly global coverage using the Iridium LEO satellite constellation
- Integrated antenna and power conditioning
- Low power consumption. Unit sending values every 5 minutes is 500mW. Send values every hour lowers the power to 380mW
- Can be supported by lithium battery or solar
- Utilize Ground Control’s satellite IoT management platform Cloudloop, or our API, for remote data, device and IoT system management
- Lower power usage: Unit sending values every 5 minutes is 500mW. Sending values every hour lowers the power to 380mW
- Internal battery life will vary according to the interval between value transmissions. At 5 minute intervals it will last around 3 days, whereas at 1 hour intervals it will be extended to 25 days. 8 hour intervals equates to around 165 days
- Peak current draw: 700mA at 12V (momentary – during transmit)
- Dimensions: 137mm diameter x 40mm depth
- Operating temperature: -40°C to +85°C
- Sealed against dust and water ingression to IP68
- Power input voltage: 8-32V DC
- Voltage accuracy: 0-10V +/- 5mV
- Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – CE and FCC
- Cable length: available in 3, 5, 10 & 15m cable lengths
- Serial comms options are available (RS232 or RS485) connected via 8 way cable
- Wireless configuration using a smartphone app via BLE
- Remote configuration via Cloudloop Device Manager
Ground Control offers Iridium SBD airtime both as a prepaid tariff, and as an annual contract for companies planning a larger deployment of devices. Full pricing plans can be found on our Short Burst Data Pricing page.
RockBLOCK Sense is fully integrated into the Cloudloop satellite IoT platform. From one login, explore several domains of IoT system management, the functionality of which is available for your own integration via our RESTful API.
View subscriber usage and billing information in real time. Control account spend with customer usage alerts on expenditure.
Initiate basic commands, updates and enable troubleshooting for remote management of your devices anywhere across the globe.
Automatic message formatting for Iridium SBD and Certus IMT. Select from integrated destinations or build into your own platform to manage your data flow.
Documentation
Can we help you?
Our expert team would be happy to answer any of your questions regarding the RockBLOCK Sense and how it can support your remote IoT data capture requirements.
Complete the form, or email hello@groundcontrol.com to receive hardware costs, representative airtime based on your expected usage, and an objective assessment of whether this is the best device for your requirements.