Sutron Corporation X-Link Operations & Maintenance Manual, Rev 1.63 5/24/2016 pg. 166
17.
More about SDI-12
17.1.
Overview
SDI-12 is a standard for interfacing data recorders with microprocessor-based
sensors. SDI-12 stands for serial data interface at 1200 baud. SDI-12 is intended
for applications with the following requirements:
Battery powered operation with minimal current drain
Low system cost
Use of a single data recorder with multiple sensors on one cable
Up to 200 feet of cable between the sensor and a data recorder
SDI-12 has the following advantages:
It defines a standard way for a data recorder and sensor to communicate.
Unique and complex self-calibration algorithms can be done in the sensor
itself.
Sensors can be interchanged without reprogramming the data recorder with
calibration or other information.
Power is supplied to sensors through the interface.
The use of a standard serial interface eliminates significant complexity in the
design of the data recorder.
Low cost, small sensors can be designed with SDI-12 compatibility.
SDI-12 data recorders interface with a variety of sensors.
SDI-12 sensors interface with a variety of data recorders.
Personnel trained in SDI-12 will have skills to work with a variety of SDI-12
data recorders and sensors.
SDI-12 is used in water resource research and management, industry,
government, and agriculture. For example, the U.S. Geological Survey uses over
4000 SDI-12 sensors in its data collection networks. SDI-12 sensors are available
that measure the following:
bridge scour
conductivity
dissolved oxygen
distance
groundwater level
petroleum hydrocarbons in water
pH
