Digital Temperature Cable (DTC)

No, you cannot use a multimeter to measure temperatures on DTCs. Our Digital Temperature Cables use digital temperature sensors, unlike the analog thermistors found in traditional thermistor strings or VW piezometers. Therefore, a multimeter, which is designed for analog measurements, will not work with our DTCs.

A Digital Temperature Cable (DTC) can be customized in several ways. A single cable can be up to 1,500 feet long and support up to 125 sensors. The spacing between sensors is fully customizable, with a minimum spacing of 10 cm between separate sensor molds. For denser measurements, continuous molds are available with up to 13 sensors spaced at 2.5 cm, and a high-density option allows up to 41 sensors at 2.5 cm spacing.

Direct burial of a Digital Temperature Cable (DTC) is not recommended. We typically sleeve the cables in semi-clear ¾” PEX tubing, which provides better crush protection, resistance to ground movement, and, in some cases, allows for the retrieval of the cable from underground. This sleeving helps protect the cable and ensures its durability in buried applications.

Yes, our Digital Temperature Cables (DTCs) can be used in various applications. To enhance cable survivability in challenging environments, we offer several solutions, with the most robust option being a stainless steel tubing encasement. This provides maximum protection against mechanical damage, environmental factors, and other potential hazards.

Armored cables are typically used for exposed surface leads to protect against animals chewing through cables. However, it’s important to note that armored cables do not protect against equipment damaging the cable.

For busy construction sites with heavy equipment, conduit is recommended for surface leads to prevent equipment damage. Additionally, conduit is recommended for in-ground sections to protect against ground movements such as heave from freeze/thaw cycles or settlement. 

Read this article to learn more about why we recommend the use of conduit and some conduit options.

Yes, for above-ground conduit, it’s important to use Flexible Conduit instead of PEX (polyethylene) as PEX can be damaged by UV rays. For deeper installations with higher water pressures, Stainless Steel Conduit is recommended. Our digital temperature cable has a 3.5 MPa or 500 psi fluid pressure rating, ensuring reliability in various environments.

Read this article to learn more about why we recommend the use of conduit and some conduit options.

No, the sensor spacing in the digital temperature cable does not need to be uniform. It can vary from the minimum spacing to whatever spacing is desired or required based on the application.

The maximum number of sensors per cable is 125. For the D605 Data Logger, the maximum number of sensors allowed is 500, whether you’re connecting a single cable or multiple cables to the logger.

Yes, third-party loggers can be used via protocols such as SDI-12 and RS-485. These connections can be integrated into the Recite or MLink device for seamless data collection.

Yes, if a cable gets damaged, it is easy to splice back together as it consists of just three conductors. Additionally, if cable extension is needed, we can provide extension pieces with connectors on each end for convenience.

Yes, we offer pigtail adapters that can be used to connect cables with different connectors, such as XLR and Raymo connectors, making them interchangeable.

Yes, we offer white cables for snow applications and heat shrink for water applications, which helps prevent biofouling.

The cable can be installed horizontally, vertically, or inclined, and it can be placed in boreholes, buried in the ground, or submerged in water.

Yes, our digital temperature cable can be used for river monitoring. We pre-install sand into the PEX conduit, ensuring the cable remains submerged, is protected from debris, and performs optimally in river environments.

Yes, each cable undergoes calibration in an ice bath before it is shipped out, ensuring accurate temperature readings upon installation.

We recommend calibrating the cable every two years if it’s feasible to send it back to our shop.

An “85 degC” displayed on a sensor indicates that the sensor doesn’t have enough power to function properly. This typically translates to an error code equivalent in Fahrenheit. In such cases, a strong pull-up command can be used in the logger to take a reading from the sensor. Please contact our team if you need support.

A “99 degC” error on a single sensor indicates an issue with that specific sensor. However, if multiple sensors display “99 degC” errors, it could be a sign of a cable issue. Please contact our team if you need support.

Yes, aside from “85 degC” and “99 degC” errors, you may encounter “125 degC” and “901” errors. The “125 degC” error, with a temperature of Celsius plus or minus a couple of degrees, has an equivalent in Fahrenheit. The “901” error, known as billiard balling, occurs when there’s a discrepancy in the number of sensors detected, often requiring further investigation. If you encounter any of these error codes, it’s advisable to reach out to us for assistance.

Each cable comes with a unique serial number prominently displayed on the cable label. This allows for easy identification, ensuring you know exactly which equipment you have.

Yes, you can connect old cables to new loggers and new cables to old loggers. Our systems are designed to be compatible across different versions, ensuring flexibility and ease of use for our customers. You may require a pigtail if the cable and logger doesn’t have the same connector type.