Remote Monitoring and Control, From Anywhere
SwitchSense supports one analog input and two digital inputs for logging sensor values or monitoring on/off states. When a defined condition is met, such as a high or low threshold, it can activate its open-drain output to control external equipment.
The output supports both latching and pulse-based switching. This allows for simple on/off control or precise control via short-duration pulses ideal for devices that require a brief signal, such as solenoid valves, alarms, or digital triggers, ideal for use cases where real-world changes need real-time response eg.:
- Monitoring water level in a tank and opening a valve when it reaches a threshold
- Tracking ambient temperature in a field and triggering an irrigation system
- Detecting vibration on remote assets and sending a security breach alert, while activating a warning signal or deterrent device
Sensor readings, switch control and pulse duration are managed via Cloudloop, Ground Control’s secure online platform, or via a REST API for integration into your own systems.
Low Power, Solar Compatible
RockBLOCK SwitchSense 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 SwitchSense consumes less than 380mW with a five minute value transmission interval. As shown, we connected RockBLOCK SwitchSense 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.
- Iridium Short Burst Data (SBD) Satellite enabled switching and sensing in one device
- IO Capability:
- 1 open drain switchable output (30V open, 100mA closed)
- 2 digital inputs (dry contact – 300uA wetting)
- 1 Analogue input configurable as either 0-10V or 4-20mA
- Pulse or latching output for triggering external equipment. Pulse duration configurable via Cloudloop (e.g.100ms to 10s). Manual or automated activation based on input thresholds
- Small and discreet, waterproof form factor (IP68 rated)
- Operating range -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
Power and Environmental
- 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)
- Power input voltage: 8-32V DC
- Typical standby draw ~500mW
- Voltage accuracy: 0-10V +/- 5mV
- Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – CE and FCC
- Operating temperature: -40°C to +85°C
- Sealed against dust and water ingression to IP68
Physical
- Dimensions: 137mm diameter x 40mm depth
- Compact housing with mounting flanges
- Marine-rated connectors with optional cable lengths available in 3, 5, 10 & 15m
- Serial comms options are available (RS232 or RS485) connected via 8 way cable
Configuration
- Wireless configuration using a smartphone app via BLE
- Remote configuration via Cloudloop Device Manager
- Cloudloop IoT Management Platform or equivalent functional API
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 giving you secure, flexible control over your device and data.
From one login, explore several domains of IoT system management, the functionality of which is available for your own integration via our RESTful API.
Trigger the switch output manually or automatically based on sensor input. Initiate basic device commands, updates and enable troubleshooting for remote management of your devices anywhere across the globe.
Route, store, and view time-stamped sensor readings. Set data upload intervals and monitor signal health. With Cloudloop Data Insights, visualise real-world sensor values (e.g., voltage, flow, temperature) using intuitive dashboards. Configure thresholds, define alerts, and review system behaviour over time.
With functional API and automation, access data and device control programmatically to build your own workflows or integrate into SCADA systems.
View subscriber usage and billing information in real time. Control account spend with customer usage alerts on expenditure.
Can we help you?
Our expert team would be happy to answer any of your questions regarding the RockBLOCK SwitchSense 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.