What should I do if my sensor station is 'offline'?

What should I do if my sensor station is 'offline'?


Step 1: Reset the sensor station.

Reset the sensor station. Check the lights on the sensor station circuit board (see this article for more information). If the sensor station is having trouble communicating with the base station, reset the base station & verify it is working properly. 


Step 2: Base Station Troubleshooting.

If the base station doesn't connect to the network: 

  • Ensure the SIM card is correctly in place. The SIM card is located on the back of the circuit board (shown below), so you will need to remove the circuit board from the box. 



Unscrew the two screws that secure the board to the box. Remove the circuit board & flip it over. 
Ensure the circuit board is in the orientation shown above. 

Gently shift the SIM card cover to the left until it clicks (this 'unlocks' the cover). Then, shift the cover to the right until it clicks (this 'locks' the SIM card in place).

Replace the circuit board in the box & press the reset button.

  • Move the base station to different location to try to get a better cell signal

  • Ensure the Mercury Module is correctly lined up (shown below, all pins plugged in). The Mercury Module contains a radio which receives messages from the sensor stations in the field. If it isn't properly connected, the base station can't receive the messages the sensor stations are trying to send.
Cellular Base Station Mercury Module

  • Ensure the antenna cable is correctly screwed into the Mercury Module. We have two base station models. In the older version, the antenna cable connects to the bottom of the Mercury Module. In the newer version (most models), the antennas cable screws into the top of the Mercury Module. In either case, make sure the antenna is secure & correctly attached.


Step 3: Reset the Sensor Station

Try resetting the sensor station again. If you don't see the appropriate lights on the circuit board (solid green, flashing blue light, then off):

  • Ensure the Mercury Module is correctly lined up (all pins plugged in). The Mercury Module contains a radio which sends messages to the base station. If it isn't properly connected, it can't send moisture and temperature data to the base station.

  • Check the antenna / cable. Was the antenna/cable damaged during installation or while in the field? If so, contact us for a replacement.

  • Ensure the antenna cable is correctly plugged into the Mercury Module. Just like the base station, the sensor station has a Mercury Module. Also like the base station, we have two sensor station models. In one version, the antenna cable attaches to the bottom of the Mercury Module. In the other, the antennas cable screws into the top of the Mercury Module. In either case, make sure the antenna is secure & correctly attached.

  • Try replacing the batteries. If you suspect the batteries may be low, replace with Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries, if necessary.

  • Move sensor station closer to the base station. As a last resort, move & reinstall the sensor station closer to the base station. Make sure to reset the sensor station & verify a successful connection prior to reinstalling.

If you're still having trouble, contact us. We're happy to help!



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