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Installing SMART
Installing the SMART System on a wind turbine, meteorological tower, or similar structure requires careful planning. Proper connectivity, grounding, and microphone placement will help ensure a successful deployment.
Installing Microphones
Connecting the SMART MIC-1 to the SMART Controller
In the simplest configuration, the SMART Controller can connect to two microphones via Ethernet cables with Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, up to 100 meters in length for a direct connection.
Install the Ethernet Surge Suppressor
Each SMART microphone ships with an Ethernet Surge Suppressor. When installed correctly, the Surge Suppressor provides some protection against electrical surges or discharges to equipment downstream from the microphone.

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Document History
This documentation receives frequent updates, which are described here.
Introduction
Song Meter® with Analysis and Remote Transfer, or SMART™, is a multi-channel, ultrasonic audio recording and analysis platform from Wildlife Acoustics®.
Getting Started
The first time you use a SMART System, we recommend setting it up in an accessible location, such as an office. This will make it easier to configure the SMART and perform any necessary troubleshooting.
Microphone Settings and Schedules
Each microphone connected to a SMART Controller can have its own Setting Profile and Schedule Profile. These profiles determine when the microphone is active; the settings it uses to detect, record, and analyze bat echolocations; and set the scheduling of microphone sensitivity testing and moisture clearing.
SMART Controller Configuration
Before you deploy the SMART System, you should configure basic system and network settings. These include login credentials, date, location, and network configuration settings.
Data Management
The SMART System stores recordings and logs on its internal drive initially, and it can periodically transfer new data to a USB or networked storage drive.
Installing SMART
Installing the SMART System on a wind turbine, meteorological tower, or similar structure requires careful planning. Proper connectivity, grounding, and microphone placement will help ensure a successful deployment.
- Preparing to Install
  Once a SMART System is installed on a wind turbine or meteorological mast, it may become much more difficult to troubleshoot some aspects of the system. You should make sure your SMART System is fully configured and you have the appropriate materials ready prior to installation.
- Grounding
  A SMART System should be electrically grounded at multiple points (the controller, microphones, and in-between) to minimize the potential for damage from electrical discharges.
- Calculating Battery and Solar Panel Needs
  If you plan to power a SMART System using a solar panel and external battery, factors that determine how much energy the SMART will use and how much sun exposure is available per day will influence the appropriate equipment choice.
- Installing Microphones
  - Microphone Placement on Wind Turbines
    Placing your microphones thoughtfully will allow you to detect bat activity near a wind turbine most effectively. Poor microphone placement can hinder your microphones' sensitivity and produce cluttered recordings.
  - SMART MIC-1 Mounting Bracket
    The SMART MIC-1 Mounting Bracket is an optional accessory that allows multiple microphone orientations.
  - Connecting the SMART MIC-1 to the SMART Controller
    In the simplest configuration, the SMART Controller can connect to two microphones via Ethernet cables with Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, up to 100 meters in length for a direct connection.
    - Assemble the RJ45 Weatherproofing and Ferrite Kit
      Each SMART microphone ships with a collection of accessories that protect the microphone's Ethernet connection from the weather and help reject electromagnetic interference. The weatherproof cover also provides a screw-on connection that securely holds the Ethernet connection in place.
    - Install the Ethernet Surge Suppressor
      Each SMART microphone ships with an Ethernet Surge Suppressor. When installed correctly, the Surge Suppressor provides some protection against electrical surges or discharges to equipment downstream from the microphone.
    - Extending the Connection between the SMART MIC-1 and SMART Controller
      A direct Ethernet connection can carry power and signals between a SMART Controller and a SMART MIC-1 for distances up to 100 meters. To cover longer distances or to minimize electrical interference, you can use an Ethernet signal repeater, powered switch, or Ethernet-to-fiber-optic conversion system.
Bat Activity Alarms and Control System Integration
The SMART System can integrate with a windfarm SCADA network or similar control system to perform acoustically triggered curtailment (ATC). You can define custom alarms that detect bat activity based on custom-defined parameters. When these alarms trigger, you can send control signals to other devices on a control system to trigger turbine shutdowns.
Troubleshooting
Specifications
SMART Enclosure
The SMART Enclosure is a preconfigured, weatherproof enclosure that can be purchased with the SMART System.
SMART API and Command Reference
The SMART System software includes utilities, command-line scripts, and APIs that can be used for additional customized programming of the SMART System.
Glossary
Warranty
Except as specifically provided herein, Wildlife Acoustics makes no warranty of any kind, express or implied, with respect to this product.
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Prohibition Against Eavesdropping
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Contact Information

Install the Ethernet Surge Suppressor

Each SMART microphone ships with an Ethernet Surge Suppressor. When installed correctly, the Surge Suppressor provides some protection against electrical surges or discharges to equipment downstream from the microphone.

About this task

You should install one Surge Suppressor for each microphone you install as part of your SMART System.

The Surge Suppressor is symmetrical. You can connect the microphone to either of the two RJ45 ports.

Procedure

Connect the Surge Suppressor's ground wire to common ground using as short a connection as possible.
Install the Surge Suppressor as close as possible to the end of the cable opposite the microphone.
If you want to connect the microphone directly to the SMART Controller, connect the Surge Suppressor to the SMART Controller with as short an Ethernet cable as possible. Connect the longer Ethernet cable between the microphone and the Surge Suppressor.

If you are using a PoE switch in between your microphone and SMART Controller, connect the Surge Suppressor to the PoE switch with as short an Ethernet cable as possible. Connect the longer Ethernet cable between the microphone and the Surge Suppressor.
Use Ethernet cables that are at least CAT 5.
Keep the total run of Ethernet cable, including both segments attached to the Surge Suppressor, to 100 meters or shorter.
The Surge Suppressor is a passive component and will not extend the possible range of a single Ethernet segment. To extend the possible range, use a Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch, signal extender, or Ethernet-to-fiber conversion system.