The application of a low-cost microcomputer logger with pressure-temperature based sensor for coastal observations: A preliminary study

Abstract

Nearshore hydrodynamics, such as water level fluctuations, field observations play a crucial role in understanding and monitoring the dynamics of the coastal region. The observed parameters provide insight into oceanographic processes, climate change impacts, and the behavior of marine ecosystems that could be valuable for coastal management and infrastructure development planning. Most of the available hydrodynamic loggers are provided by companies with relatively high prices. Due to limited budgets, many areas including Indonesia waters, have limited hydrodynamic observation data. In this paper, we presented a prototype of a simple (DIY-Do It Yourself) and low-cost water level logger with a microcomputer that could be applied in coastal regions. The system consists of a pressure-based sensor to detect water level fluctuations, a temperature sensor, a single-board microcomputer and data logger, and a power supply with different sampling frequencies for various coastal applications. The result showed the ability of the microcomputer system to measure high-resolution water levels and temperatures applicable for non-directional waves, tides and non-tides observations, and ecological monitoring. The microcomputer’s low power consumption makes it suitable for long-term coastal observations, even in remote or battery-powered applications. The body of the logger is designed from PVC-nylon with sensors made from waterproof and corrosion-free materials to ensure its applicability for coastal monitoring. Moreover, the flexibility of the microcomputer system allows for customization and adaptation to specific research requirements at relatively affordable prices.