Mid-Deployment Refresh Checklist - SM5

Song Meter SM5 User Guide
Core Product
SM5
Accessory

When you visit the SM5 during a deployment to replace batteries and SD cards, perform some basic checks to confirm it is functioning correctly.

Procedure

Before you travel to the SM5:

  1. Reformat any SD cards you will be installing in the field.
  2. Check our firmware release notes for major updates.
    If a new firmware version has fixed any critical issues, you may want to update the SM5's firmware mid-deployment.
  3. Pack the following equipment:
    • Replacement for every SD card currently installed
    • Full quantity of replacement batteries
    • Keys for any locks that were installed with the SM5
    • (Optional) Replacement microphones, windscreens, and cables, in case of wildlife damage

When you reach the SM5:

  1. Inspect all microphones and cables for signs of wildlife damage.
  2. Wipe away any debris from the outside of the SM5.
  3. Open the SM5 and note whether it is still powered on and whether it displays any error messages on its status screen.
  4. Replace SD cards and batteries:
    1. Turn off the SM5.
    2. Remove the used SD cards and batteries, keeping them separate from your fresh cards and batteries.
    3. Install a full set of new or freshly charged batteries.
      Partially drained batteries and freshly charged or new batteries should never be installed together.
    4. Install empty SD cards.
    5. Turn on the SM5
  5. Update the SM5's clock and location.
    • Using a smartphone, pair the configurator app with the SM5. The app will prompt you to update location during pairing.
    • IfGPS sync is set to Once or Daily, turn the SM5 on at the deployment site. The SM5 will attempt to acquire location and time data using its internal GPS/GLONASS antenna after it is switched on.
    • Manually edit the clock and location settings under Settings > Time & location.
  6. Check the SM5's status screen:
    Each SD card should show 0 GB or TB of used space. For example, SD1:0/128 or SD2:0/512.
  7. Optional: Record voice notes about the deployment using the Instant record function.
  8. Close the SM5, making sure no debris is trapped around the edges of the enclosure.
  9. Reinstall any locks and check that the SM5 is mounted securely, without excess force.

When you return from the field:

  1. Use a computer to copy the full contents of every SD card to one or more long-term storage locations.