Mounting Directions

Introduction

The NSRT_mk3 series is designed to work outdoors. But to minimize the chances of an issue, it is important to follow the advice below.

Venting

At the bottom of the instrument is a very small hole (see Figure 1). That hole is covered by an ePTFE vent inside the casing, so water and dust cannot enter, but air can circulate freely. The function of that vent is to equalize the pressure inside the casing to the atmospheric pressure outside. Without the vent, changes in temperature, such as daily temperature cycles, will create over and under pressures inside the casing relative to the atmospheric pressure. Those daily pressure changes will, in the long run, stress the seal that keeps the casing weatherproof.

The vent must never be obstructed to ensure the integrity of the seal in the long run.

Which Mount to Use

For outdoors use, only use the wall mount (see Figure 2).

1. The tripod adapter is not strong enough to hold the instrument if the weather is very windy.
2. The wall mount presses the two sides of the casing together, and minimizes the chances of the seal failing.

Insert the instrument into the wall mount and press down firmly. The mount is slightly tapered and will hold the instrument very strongly

Orientation

The instrument should be mounted horizontally, with the USB connector facing the ground (see Figure 3).

1. This ensures that rain does not pool inside the USB socket. The USB socket is weatherproof, but water should not be allowed to pool inside it for long periods of time.
2. This also ensures that water does not pool in the microphone cavity.

Solar Panel

If using a solar panel, follow these directions:

1. The solar panel must be facing south, so it will see the sun during the day. In order to keep the instrument charged it must be in full view of the sun (even in overcast conditions) for at least 2 hours every day.
2. The solar panel must be in full view of the sky. Not in the shadow of a tree or a building, or behind a window. The panel is large enough to charge the instrument even when the sky is overcast, but it must be in direct view of the sky.
3. During the winter months in mid-latitudes, the solar panel should be placed vertically. This way it is perpendicular to the rays of the sun, which provides the best efficiency. In addition if there is snow it will not accumulate on the panel.
4. Do not bend the panel. The panel is semi flexible, but bending it, such as wrapping it around a pole will damage it. Instead, when mounting on narrow structures, use only two eyelets (see Figure 3).
5. Mount the panel so that its USB socket is facing the ground. The USB socket is weatherproofed but allowing rain to pool inside it will damage the panel.