Sutron Corporation Satlink Operations & Maintenance Manual, Rev 8.04.2 11/3/2016 pg. 169
19.
More about SDI-12
19.1.
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
pressure
redox (ORP)
tank level
temperature
tide and sea state
turbidity
water velocity
weight of snow and ice on a snow pillow
