Mid-Deployment Refresh Checklist - SM5

When you visit the SM5 during a deployment to collect data and replace batteries or check external power, you should perform some basic checks to confirm it is functioning correctly.

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 replacement accessories and other necessary equipment:
   • a means of recovering data from the SM5:
     • replacement SD cards for every card currently installed
     • a laptop (or smart device), SD card reader, and storage drive for downloading data in the field
   • full quantity of replacement internal batteries, if applicable
   • keys for any locks that were installed with the SM5
   • rag for wiping the outside of the SM5
   • toothbrush for cleaning debris out of the enclosure gasket
   • (optional) replacement microphones, windscreens, and cables, in case of wildlife damage

When you reach the SM5:

4. Inspect all microphones and cables for signs of wildlife damage.
5. Shelter the SM5 from rain and wipe away debris or moisture from the outside of the SM5.
6. Open the SM5 and note whether it is still powered on and whether it displays any error messages on its status screen.
7. Check the status of your external power source, if applicable:
   1. Check that your solar panel is clean and unobstructed.
   2. If using the Wildlife Acoustics Power Kit, check the Power Kit's battery status.
   3. On the SM5, check the voltage of the third-party external power source, labeled Batt: on the main status screen.
      This can help confirm if a solar panel is keeping the battery sufficiently charged. The possible range of battery voltages will depend on the type of external battery you are using.
8. Replace internal batteries, if applicable:
   1. Turn off the SM5.
   2. Remove all of the used batteries and store them separately from your new or charged batteries.
   3. Install a full set of new or freshly charged batteries.
      Partially drained batteries should never be installed together with freshly charged or new batteries.
9. If you brought new SD cards, replace the currently installed cards:
   1. Turn off the SM5.
   2. Remove the used SD cards and store them separately from your blank cards.
   3. Install the empty SD cards.
   4. Turn on the SM5.
10. If you did not bring new SD cards, download your data and reformat the cards:
    1. Turn off the SM5 and remove the SD cards.
    2. Connect each SD card and a large storage drive to a laptop or similar device.
    3. Copy the full contents of each SD card to a labeled folder on your storage drive.
    4. Reinstall the cards in the SM5.
    5. To erase the SD cards, turn on the SM5 and select Utilities > Format SD card 1 and Format SD card 2.
11. 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.

    The listed date and time should be accurate.

12. Optional: Record voice notes about the deployment using the Instant record function.
13. Latch the SM5 shut, making sure the red gasket is free of dirt and debris.
    Trapped dirt and debris may allow water inside the SM5's enclosure.
    
    
14. Reinstall any locks and check that the SM5 is mounted securely, without excess force.

When you return from the field:

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