AlgaeTracker
By AquaRealTime
A revolutionary new monitoring and detection system providing early warning of harmful algal blooms and other water contaminants. With a low unit cost, AlgaeTrackers can be deployed quickly in multiple locations, from which they immediately stream data to a central dashboard where analytics improve early warning capabilities
Specifications
Weight
8lbs (3.6kg)
Diameter
14in (35cm)
Height
7in (18cm)
Benefits
1 Hour Install
30x Lower Entry Cost
Action Alerts
Get notified before algae blooms
Reduce time spent sampling
AlgaeTracker
The AlgaeTracker is a floating sensor buoy that measures 6 key water variables and transmits the data to the cloud. Four more weather parameters are pulled from the closest weather station and stored. It is solar powered, cellular connected, and has self-cleaning sensors that collect data 24/7, updating every 30 minutes. The tracker weighs 8 pounds and can typically be deployed by non-technical personnel in under 60 minutes.
Web Dashboard
The AlgaeTracker Cloud analyzes the sensor inputs and presents the data in a simple user dashboard accessible from any device. Data are presented in easy-to-interpret charts, permanently backed up, and easily downloaded. Custom alerts at action thresholds and evolving analytics tools enable rapid interpretation of waterbody status. Weekly status reports are generated and sent to your inbox. The system intelligently self-diagnoses issues, corrects, and notifies as needed.
Sensor Measurements
Parameter
Air Temperature
0-200 NTU
Water Temperature
Turbidity
Chlorophyll-a
Phycocyanin
Ambient Light
GPS Coordinates
Range
0-50 ºC
0-200 NTU
0-50 ºC
0-200 NTU
0-200 μg/L or 0-2,000 RFU
0-1,500 μg/L or 0-750 RFU
0-2,000 PAR
All
Resolution
0.1 ºC
0-200 NTU
0.1 ºC
0.1 NTU
0.1 μg/L or 0.1 RFU
0.1 μg/L or 0.1 RFU
0.1 μE/m²/sec
2.5 m
Precipitation, wind direction, and wind speed are pulled from the closest weather station, stored, and charted in the dashboard.
Sensor Technology
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The AlgaeTracker leverages fluorescence of the pigments within algae and cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) to detect the abundance of the organisms.
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Chlorophyll-a, present in all algae and cyanobacteria, is the most frequently used indicator of algal growth. Phycocyanin, typically present in freshwater cyanobacteria, is used as the indicator for blue-green algae.
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The AlgaeTracker uses an excitation wavelength of 420 nm for chlorophyll-a, and 575 nm for phycocyanin. The peak emission wavelengths measured are at 670 nm and 642 nm respectively.
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The AlgaeTracker utilizes advanced analog and digital signal processing to eliminate the disturbance from ambient light that can affect other sensors' fluorescence measurements.
Power and Data Transfer
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The AlgaeTracker's solar panel recharges an internal battery. It will run stand alone year round as long as the location is not cold enough to ice up the water. From a full charge, without any sunlight, the Tracker can run without interruption for three weeks.
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Data transfer runs over 4G cellular technology and is all taken care of by AquaRealTime. The system can automatically hop between 3 carriers to optimize reception, and an oversize antenna is included. No sim cards or data plans to figure out, everything is included.
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