Integrated Surface Flux System Data Sampling Module

The ISFS DSM is a data acquisition system in a small weather-proof box, roughly 30x30x15 cm, containing a Raspberry Pi Linux computer with local flash storage, and external interface panels for power, network, and serial sensors.

The system runs on 12V DC and is relatively low power, with a base load of 3 Watts, and can be easily powered with photo-voltaic panels.

The ISFS DSMs formerly were similar to the aircraft data system (ADS) DSMs, using the same family of CPU processors and some of the same peripheral cards; however, the latest versions use different CPUs.  Both run the same (NIDAS) data acquisition software.

A DSM is deployed with a GPS. Network time protocol (NTP) software on the DSM, using the pulse-per-second signal from the GPS, keeps the data system clock correct to within +-3 microseconds of absolute time.

The ISFS DSMs are capable of fairly high throughput, sampling up to 8 serial sensors at typical rates of 1-60 sps. Bluetooth serial protocol is also supported. Nine serial Bluetooth sensors have been acquired simultaneously.

The NIDAS software also supports sampling sensors using the ISFS Wisard radio protocol for sampling dispersed sensor networks.

Digitizing analog voltages was removed, but may be available on a case-by-case basis.

Software control of 12V DC to all external sensors is available through the DSM interface panels. DC power at other voltages is also available for external systems, such as WiFi antennas.

The box has space and power connectors for optional communications modules, such as routers with cellular modems and satellite modems.