Regular maintenance and checks will keep your SM5 running smoothly and prevent any issues from interrupting your deployments.
Below are some general-purpose suggestions for how often to perform various maintenance tasks. Depending on the length and frequency of your typical deployment, you may decide to perform these checks more or less often than suggested here.
Some survey protocols may require additional routine tasks, such as tracking microphone sensitivity. Always defer to any protocol-specific requirements.
Before Each Deployment
- Check for updates to the Song Meter Configurator mobile app.
- Check for firmware updates and make sure all recorders are running the latest firmware.
- Charge any reusable batteries, making sure D batteries are used and charged in sets.
- Test microphone sensitivity.
- Check for debris that may prevent gaskets from sealing.
- Run a full cycle of the schedule and review your data for schedule errors or other issues.
- Format all SD cards.
Annually
If your yearly schedule has a long gap without deployments, take the opportunity to review your equipment in more detail. Diagnose any potential issues and send damaged equipment to a Wildlife Acoustics repair center before you need to begin preparations for your next deployment.
- Check the integrity of all windscreens, and replace any that are crumbling.
- Check the weatherproofing of all recorders by looking for damage to gaskets and ensuring all connectors, microphones, and bolts are tight.
- Run test deployments to diagnose any equipment issues and arrange for repairs.
- Check if any clock batteries need replacement.