Trillium Compact

User Guide
© 2017 Nanometrics Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Trillium Compact Seismometer User Guide

Applies to the following products:

Product Name Model Number Part Number

Trillium Compact, 120 second TC120-SV1 16838
Trillium Compact, 20 second TC20-SV1 16838-20
Trillium Compact Posthole, 120 second, 300 m TC120-PH2 17327
Trillium Compact Posthole, 20 second, 300 m TC20-PH2 17327-20
Trillium Compact Posthole, 120 second, 300 m, TC120-PH2-XC 17327-01
Polar Environment

The information in this document has been carefully reviewed and is believed to be reliable.
Nanometrics Inc. reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice to improve the
reliability and function of the product.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without
the prior written permission of Nanometrics Inc.

Nanometrics Inc.
250 Herzberg Road, Kanata, Ontario, Canada K2K 2A1
Tel +1 613-592-6776
Fax +1 613-592-5929
Email [email protected]
www.nanometrics.ca

Part number 16889R8

Release date 2017-04-06
About This Document
Document Conventions
Essential and Supplementary Information
Explains a risk of irreversible damage to data, software, or equipment
Warning and provides recommendations for preventive action.

Explains a risk of damage to data, software, or equipment where

Caution recovery is likely to be troublesome and provides recommendations for
preventive action.
Provides additional information related to the current text.
Note

Explains a best practice or provides helpful information related to the

Tip current text.

Provides an example related to the current text.

Example

Text Conventions
bold text Identifies referenced elements in the graphical user interface (GUI)
(for example, “click Cancel to discard the changes”).
italic text Identifies variables such as parameter names and value placeholders
(for example, “select Configuration > Sensor Name”).
courier text Identifies commands that must be entered exactly as shown
(for example, “type mkdir $APOLLO_LOCATION/config”).

Changes Included in This Revision

Revision number 16889R8 includes the following changes:

 Updated temperature specifications. See Section 8.7 “Environmental” on page 43.

 Added content for Polar Environment product model TC120-PH2-XC. See Section 1.1 “About
Trillium Compact Seismometers” on page 2 and Section 8.7 “Environmental” on page 43.

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Contents
About This Document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Document Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Changes Included in This Revision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

Part 1 Installation
Chapter 1 Getting Started
1.1 About Trillium Compact Seismometers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.2 Unpacking and Handling a Trillium Compact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.3 Selecting a Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.4 Cables and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.5 Technical Support and Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.5.1 Recording Your Serial Number and IP Address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.6 Site Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Chapter 2 Performing a Posthole Installation

2.1 Installing a Trillium Compact Posthole. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.2 Aligning a Trillium Compact Posthole to North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.2.1 Using a Surface Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.2.2 Using a Surface Seismometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.3 Troubleshooting Your Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Chapter 3 Performing a Surface Vault Installation

3.1 Planning Your Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.2 Recommendations for Pier Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.2.1 Choosing the Right Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.2.2 Decoupling the Pier and Vault Walls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.3 Common Types of Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.3.1 Vault Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.3.2 Temporary Installations on Rock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.4 Alignment, Levelling, and Placement Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.5 Best Practices for Alignment and Levelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3.6 Theory and Practice of Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.7 Insulation Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
3.7.1 Insulating with the Insulating Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
3.7.2 Insulating with a Rigid Foam Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

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3.8 Installing a Trillium Compact in the Insulating Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

3.9 Troubleshooting Your Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Part 2 Operation
Chapter 4 Input and Output Signals
4.1 UVW and XYZ Output Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
4.2 Serial RS-232 Communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
4.3 Digital Control Input Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
4.4 Calibration Input Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
4.5 State-of-Health Output Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
4.6 Power Consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Chapter 5 Configuring Your System

5.1 Selecting the Trillium Compact Configuration for a Nanometrics Instrument . . . . 30
5.2 Using a Trident Digitizer with a Trillium Compact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5.3 Increasing System Sensitivity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Chapter 6 Configuring Serial Communications

6.1 About Serial Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
6.2 Connecting through a Nanometrics Digitizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
6.3 Calculating the IP Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Chapter 7 Using the Web Interface

7.1 About the Web Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
7.2 State-of-Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
7.3 Seismometer Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
7.4 Control Lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
7.5 Sensor Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
7.6 Hardware Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
7.7 Firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Part 3 Reference
Chapter 8 Specifications
8.1 Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
8.2 Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
8.3 Hardware Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
8.4 Digital Command and Control Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
8.5 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
8.6 Physical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

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8.7 Environmental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Chapter 9 Transfer Function and Noise Floor

9.1 Frequency Response for 120 s and 20 s Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
9.2 Self-Noise for 120 s Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
9.3 Self-Noise for 20 s Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Chapter 10 Connector and Cables

10.1 Pinout for 14-Pin Trillium Compact Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
10.2 Pinout for 16-Pin Trillium Compact Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
10.3 Cable Design Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Chapter 11 Physical Features and Dimensions

11.1 Top Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
11.1.1 Top View of Models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
11.1.2 Top View of Models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2. . . . . . . . . . . 53
11.2 Bottom Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
11.2.1 Bottom View of Models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
11.2.2 Bottom View of Models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and
TC20-PH2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
11.3 Side Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
11.3.1 Side View of Models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
11.3.2 Side View of Models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2 . . . . . . . . . . 57
11.4 Side View of Optional 70 mm Spikes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Appendix A Carrying Case

A.1 Transporting a Trillium Compact in the Carrying Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Appendix B Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit

B.1 Using the Levelling Cradle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
B.2 Using the Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Appendix C Free Software Information

C.1 BSD Licence Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Appendix D Glossary
D.1 Glossary of Abbreviations and Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
D.2 List of Unit Abbreviations and Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

About Nanometrics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Contacting Nanometrics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Contacting Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

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Tables
1-1 List of cables and accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1-2 Record of installation site details. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2-1 Types of noise and possible causes for posthole deployments. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3-1 Recommended pier design specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3-2 Types of noise and possible causes for surface vault deployments . . . . . . . . . 25
5-1 Configuring a Nanometrics instrument for a Trillium Compact . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
5-2 Increasing system sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
8-1 Technology specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
8-2 Performance specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
8-3 Hardware interface specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
8-4 Digital command and control Interface specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
8-5 Power specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
8-6 Physical specifications for models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
8-7 Physical specifications for models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2 . 42
8-8 Environmental specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
9-1 Ground motion response nominal parameters for 120 s models . . . . . . . . . . . 45
9-2 Ground motion response nominal parameters for 20 s models . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
9-3 Calibration circuit parameters for 120 s and 20 s models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
10-1 Pinout for 14-pin Trillium Compact connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
10-2 Pinout for 16-pin Trillium Compact connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
D-1 Unit Abbreviations and Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

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Figures
3-1 Example of seismometer alignment using vertically scribed marks . . . . . . . . . 17
3-2 Example of seismometer alignment using the case-top guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3-3 Trillium Compact insulating cover features and dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
3-4 Cut-away illustration of a Trillium Compact in the insulating cover . . . . . . . . . 24
4-1 Trillium Compact axis orientation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
9-1 Bode plot for 120 s and 20 s models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
9-2 Self-noise for 120 s models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
9-3 Self-noise for 20 s models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
11-1 Top view of models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
11-2 Top view of models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
11-3 Bottom view of models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
11-4 Bottom view of models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2 . . . . . . . . . . 55
11-5 Side view of models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
11-6 Side view of models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2. . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
11-7 Side view of optional 70 mm spikes (posthole models only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
A-1 Cut-away illustration of a packed carrying case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
B-1 Levelling cradle features and dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
B-2 Levelling cradle and spike kit assembly configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

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Part 1
Installation

 Getting Started

 Performing a Posthole Installation

 Performing a Surface Vault Installation

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Chapter 1
Getting Started

1.1 About Trillium Compact Seismometers

Trillium Compact is extremely simple to deploy with no mass lock and no mass centering
required. The exceptionally small size significantly reduces the time and effort required for
site preparation and installation. Continuous quality data are available within minutes of
deployment with no requirement for further intervention.

All Trillium Compact seismometers are observatory-class three-component, very

broadband, low-noise seismometers with extended low frequency range useful out to
beyond 1000 s, low noise, and a high clip level that is ideal for teleseismic, regional, and
local studies.
• Low-noise broadband seismometer performance
• Broadband performance, 20 or 120 second to 100 Hz, with improved noise floor at
high frequency
• Exceptionally high clip level of 26 mm/s permits on scale recording of larger events
closer to the source
• Ultra low power consumption of just 180 mW for low operating costs and higher
station reliability
• Ease of deployment through no mass lock, no mass centering and wide tilt range
• Integrated web server for efficient instrument management
• Extended operating temperature range for Polar Environment model
TC120-PH2-XC.

Trillium Compact seismometers are available with 20 s or 120 s low corner period. The 20 s
variants have a wide operational tilt range of ±10° and are suitable for downhole
installations where the seismometer cannot be levelled, or for rapid deployments where a
quick settling time is needed. The 120 s variants have lower long-period noise and a
narrower tilt range of ±2.5° and are suitable for installations where the seismometer can be
manually levelled or placed on a level surface (in a vault or at the bottom of a suitably
prepared borehole).

Featuring low sensitivity to both tilt and temperature, Trillium Compact seismometers do not
require mass centring under normal operation. With the wide tilt range, levelling is simple
and If additional levelling is required, the seismometer can be levelled in seconds by
seating it in its optional levelling cradle, which corrects an uneven installation surface by
up to ±9º. See Appendix B “Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit” for more information.

The Trillium Compact has an integrated Web server that is accessible using a standard Web
browser and the RS-232 serial interface available on the connector. A desktop computer
with a serial port configured with serial-over-Internet-Protocol (SLIP) can be used to browse
into the Trillium Compact and configure optional features, check factory information or
state-of-health, and update firmware. Current generation Nanometrics digitizers support

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 Chapter 1  Getting Started

this interface so users can access the Web-based features of the Trillium Compact
remotely, even with the unit in service.

The symmetric triaxial arrangement of the sensing elements ensures uniformity between
vertical and horizontal outputs. The ability to remotely select either the raw (UVW) or
resulting horizontal-vertical (XYZ) outputs allows for the calibration of each axis separately.
For some studies, it may be preferable to use UVW mode instead of XYZ mode for recording
seismic data.

Trillium Compact is available in several variants to facilitate vault, surface, or buried

downhole deployments:

Model TC120-SV1 A surface vault seismometer in an aluminum enclosure with a

• 14-pin MIL-C-26482 Series I connector
• bandwidth of -3 dB points at 120 s and 108 Hz

Model TC20-SV1 A surface vault seismometer in an aluminum enclosure with a

• 14-pin MIL-C-26482 Series I connector
• bandwidth of -3 dB points at 20 s and 108 Hz

Model TC120-PH2 A posthole seismometer in a submersible stainless steel enclosure

that
• has a 16-pin marine-class connector
• is suitable to a depth of 300 m
• has a bandwidth of -3 dB points at 120 s and 108 Hz

Model TC20-PH2 A posthole seismometer in a submersible stainless steel enclosure

that
• has a 16-pin marine-class connector
• is suitable to a depth of 300 m
• has a bandwidth of -3 dB points at 20 s and 108 Hz

Model TC120-PH2-XC A posthole seismometer in a submersible stainless steel enclosure

that
• has a 16-pin marine-class connector
• is suitable to a depth of 300 m
• has a bandwidth of -3 dB points at 120 s and 108 Hz
• is suitable for installation in Polar environments. Contact
Nanometrics for more information.

1.2 Unpacking and Handling a Trillium Compact

The shipping box and packing for Trillium Compact seismometers have been designed and
tested to protect these seismometers against the impact of accidental drops during
hand-carrying and from vibration and shock during shipping. To maintain warranty
protection, Trillium Compact seismometers must always be transported in packaging

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approved by Nanometrics. Save the original packaging and reuse it any time you are
transporting a Trillium Compact. If custom packaging is required for a particular
application, please consult Nanometrics (see Contacting Nanometrics on page 68).

After delivering a Trillium Compact to its installation site, you can safely remove it from the
packaging or carrying case and handle it without any special precautions other than
taking care not to drop it or bang it against hard surfaces. Trillium Compact seismometers
do not require any mass lock mechanisms or mass centring. The seismometer is ready to
operate right out of the box and can tolerate normal handling with no degradation in
performance or service life.

1.3 Selecting a Site

There is no substitute for a geological survey when it comes to site selection. A survey
provides knowledge of the structures over which the seismometer will be installed. Where
possible, seismometers should be installed on bedrock and as far away as possible from
sources of cultural noise such as roads, dwellings, and tall structures.

Use the worksheet in Section 1.6 “Site Record” on page 8 to record information about the
structure, cultural environs, and climatic conditions of the site, as well as information about
the type and length of the installation.

1.4 Cables and Accessories

Table 1-1 lists cables and accessories for the Trillium Compact that can be purchased
separately.

Table 1-1 List of cables and accessories

Name Part Number Description

Models TC120-SV1, TC20-SV1 (surface vault)

Trillium Compact 16862 Dual-purpose enclosure that serves as both a carrying case
Carrying Case / when transporting the Trillium Compact and as an insulating
Insulating Cover cover.
As a carrying case, this enclosure provides cushioning
protection during transport.
When installed as an insulating cover, this enclosure
thermally insulates the seismometer and protects it from
external air currents.
See Appendix A, “Carrying Case” for information and
instructions on using this product to transport your Trillium
Compact.
See Chapter 3, “Performing a Surface Vault Installation” for
instructions on using this product as an insulating cover in an
installation.
Foam Plug for MEC16852R1 A foam plug specially designed for the carrying case. This
Trillium Compact plug prevents movement of the Trillium Compact and
Carrying Case / levelling cradle when a cable is not packed in the case.
Insulating Cover

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Table 1-1 List of cables and accessories

Name Part Number Description

Cable – Trillium 16777–3M Double-shielded, ultra-flexible cable with Trillium Compact

seismometer to 16777–5M right-angled connector on one end and Nanometrics
Nanometrics digitizer connector on the other end.
digitizer 16777–10M
In addition to connecting the analog inputs, power, and
16777–15M control line signals to the digitizing and data logging
16777–25M features of the digitizer, this cable also provides access to
the Web interface of the seismometer through the Web
interface of the digitizer.
Standard cable lengths are 3 m, 5 m, 10 m, 15 m, and 25 m.
Custom cable lengths are available upon request.
Cable – Trillium 16865–3M Double-shielded, ultra-flexible cable with Trillium Compact
seismometer to 16865–5M right-angled connector on one end and open-ended at the
open end other end for attaching the connector of a third-party
16865–10M digitizer.
16865–15M In addition to connecting the analog inputs, power, and
16865–25M control line signals to the digitizing and data logging
features of the digitizer, this cable also provides access to
the Web interface of the seismometer through the Web
interface of the digitizer.
Standard cable lengths are 3 m, 5 m, 10 m, 15 m, and 25 m.
Custom cable lengths are available upon request.
Cable – Trillium Contact Double-shielded, ultra-flexible cable with Trillium Compact
seismometer to Nanometrics right-angled connector on one end and a connector for a
third party digitizer common third party digitizer, such as a Q330 or REFTEK D130
on the other end.
Contact Nanometrics (see Contacting Nanometrics on
page 68) for a full listing of cables with connectors to third
party digitizers.
Cable – Serial 16978–2M A cable that provides serial communications and power to
communications the Trillium Compact. The cable has a Trillium Compact
and power cable, connector on one end and splits into two 2 m lengths. One
molded end of the cable split has a DB-9 serial connector that
connects to the serial port of a computer, and the other end
has a two-prong banana plug for power.
Standard cable length is 2 m.
Custom cable lengths are available upon request.
Models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2 (posthole)
Cable – Trillium 17768-10M A cable with a molded neoprene connector on one end
Compact Posthole 17768-30M that connects to the Trillium Compact Posthole connector
to Nanometrics and a connector on the other end for connecting to a
Digitizer, Molded Nanometrics digitizer. The cable features a robust neoprene
cable jacket that is suitable for buried deployments.
In addition to connecting the analog inputs, power, and
control line signals to the digitizing and data logging
features of the digitizer, this cable also provides access to
the Web interface of the seismometer through the Web
interface of the digitizer.

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Table 1-1 List of cables and accessories

Name Part Number Description

Cable – Trillium 18005-5M A cable with a molded neoprene connector on one end
Compact Posthole 18005-10M that connects to the Trillium Compact Posthole connector
to Open End, and is open-ended on the other end.
Molded 18005-30M
In addition to connecting the analog inputs, power, and
18005-70M control line signals to the digitizing and data logging
features of the digitizer, this cable also provides access to
the Web interface of the seismometer through the Web
interface of the digitizer.
Bubble Level MSC0225 For applications where precise levelling is required, the
bubble level is placed on top of the seismometer during
installation.
Adjustable Feet Kit 17245 A kit including three adjustable locking feet that should be
used on model numbers TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and
TC20-PH2 instead of the default fixed studs in a surface vault
installation.
All models
70 mm Spike Kit 17247 Spikes that attach to the base of the seismometer for
installations in soft soil.
Levelling Cradle 16863 Tripod deployment cradle for rapid levelling.
See Appendix B, “Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit” for
information and instructions for using this product.
Levelling Cradle 16874 Kit containing three types of spikes that attach to the
Spike Kit levelling cradle. Use the spikes to stabilize the cradle in soil,
gravel, or sand.
See Appendix B, “Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit” for
information and instructions for using this product.

1.5 Technical Support and Maintenance

If you need technical support, please submit your request by email or fax. Include a full
explanation of the problem and any supporting information (such as the maximum mass
position reading, photographs of the site, operating input voltage and current) to help us
direct your request to the most knowledgeable person for reply. Before returning a unit for
repair, contact Nanometrics Technical Support (see Contacting Technical Support on
page 68) to obtain an RMA number.

The mechanical and electronic elements of Trillium Compact have been designed to be
robust and reliable. The internal reverse-voltage protection and over-current protection
automatically resets when the fault is removed, so there are no fuses to replace.

1.5.1 Recording Your Serial Number and IP Address

Before installing your Trillium Compact, it is important to record both the serial number and
the IP address of the unit. Both numbers are provided on the unit label.

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Keep this information readily available. You will need to reference the serial number when
contacting Technical Support. You will need the IP address of the unit to access the Web
interface. See Chapter 6 “Configuring Serial Communications” for more information.

If the IP address of the unit is not recorded, it can be calculated later using the serial number.
See Section 6.3 “Calculating the IP Address” on page 34 for instruction.

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1.6 Site Record

Use the following table to record information about the site, including its structure, cultural
environs, and climatic conditions. This information will be helpful in identifying changes to
the site over time and for determining when mass recentring may be necessary due to
temperature change.

Table 1-2 Record of installation site details

Site name (full name / station code / network Latitude:

code, for example, Yellowknife / YKN / CN):
Longitude:
Elevation:
Date of installation (mm/dd/yyyy):

Type of installation (for example, vault, surface, Length of installation:

buried, other): Permanent or temporary:
Vault installation:
__________ Depth below surface (m)
__________ Height above sea level (m) If temporary, expected time frame
Posthole installation: (mm/dd/yyyy to mm/dd/yyyy):
__________ Depth of hole (m)
__________ Depth to bedrock (m)
__________ Height above sea level (m)
__________ Orientation in hole (±°)
Ground surface type (for example, rock, soil, Distance to potential noise sources (km):
sand, clay, other):

__________ Airport or air traffic

__________ Railway
Seasonal temperature ranges (°C): __________ Roads
__________ Tall structures ________ Height (m)
________________ January 1 to March 31 __________ Trees ________Height (m)
__________ Dwellings
________________ April 1 to June 30 __________ Industrial site
__________ Others (describe):
________________ July 1 to September 30

________________ October 1 to December 31

Notes:

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Performing a Posthole Installation
The contents of this chapter are applicable to Trillium Compact, model numbers TC120-PH2,
TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2.

2.1 Installing a Trillium Compact Posthole

A Trillium Compact Posthole seismometer may be installed in an uncased or cased hole.
Units will self-level as long as the Trillium Compact Posthole is within ±2.5° for the 120 s model
or ±10° for the 20 s model of vertical, making site preparation simple.

Use the following steps to install a Trillium Compact Posthole in an uncased or cased hole:

1. Prepare the hole for the installation.

• Uncased hole
For an uncased hole, the hole should be a minimum of 1 m deep, and have a
diameter large enough to accommodate the seismometer, which has a diameter
of 97 mm. The minimum hole depth will allow the seismometer to be covered by
approximately 0.9 m (3 ft.) of fill once the installation is complete. This backfill
creates a buffer between the installation and the surface, shielding it from surface
activity and weather. In general, greater depth produces better results with all
other conditions being equal.
• Cased hole
For a cased hole, the hole diameter must be large enough to accommodate the
seismometer, which has a diameter of 97 mm.
A cased hole must be covered at the top to protect the seismometer from the
elements such as wind and rain. This cover must secure and stabilize the electrical
and lifting cables, allowing some slack to avoid strain on the seismometer.

2. Connect the cable to the seismometer and digitizer.

Nanometrics cable 17768-nM (where n is the length of the cable in metres) can be
used to connect a Trillium Compact Posthole to a Nanometrics digitizer. Alternatively,
if you are connecting your Trillium Compact Posthole to a third-party digitizer, you can
connect the digitizer’s connector to Nanometrics cable 18005-nM (where n is the
length of the cable in metres), or contact Nanometrics to inquire about the availability
of a cable for a specific digitizer (see Contacting Nanometrics on page 68).
See Chapter 5, “Configuring Your System” for information on configuring your
Nanometrics digitizer for a Trillium Compact Posthole and also refer to the digitizer
manual.

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3. Lower the seismometer into the hole and align it.

The recommended practices for aligning a Trillium Compact Posthole vary based on the
depth of the hole where the unit is installed.
(1) For recommendations on aligning a Trillium Compact Posthole in a shallow hole of 2 m or
less, see 2.2.1 “Using a Surface Line” on page 10.
(2) For recommendations on aligning a Trillium Compact Posthole in a deeper hole, see 2.2.2
“Using a Surface Seismometer” on page 11.

4. Level and stabilize the seismometer using an appropriate technique to ensure that the
seismometer is solidly coupled to the surrounding substrate and will not shift or move.

5. Power the seismometer.

6. Verify a level installation by checking that the mass positions are within an acceptable
range (at or very close to zero).

7. Close the hole using the appropriate method for the type of hole ensuring that the
cable is not under any strain.

8. Check the mass positions to verify that the unit is undisturbed.

2.2 Aligning a Trillium Compact Posthole to North

There are two typical methods for aligning a Trillium Compact Posthole to north. The
method used is usually determined by the depth of the hole where the unit is installed.

For shallow holes,

 Align the north-south guide on the top of the pressure vessel to a surface line. See
Section 2.2.1 for details.

For deeper holes,

 Correlate the output of the seismometer with that of a temporarily installed

surface-based seismometer that is aligned to true north in order to calculate their
relative orientation. See Section 2.2.2 for details.

2.2.1 Using a Surface Line

The surface line method of aligning a Trillium Compact Posthole to north can only be used
in shallow holes (usually 2 m or less) where the top of the seismometer pressure vessel is
visible and the unit can be turned by hand after being lowered into the hole.

To align a Trillium Compact Posthole to north with a surface line

1. Place a ruler or stake a line across the hole, aligning it to true north.

If you are using a magnetic compass, account for the local magnetic declination when
making the line across the hole.

2. Turn the seismometer until the north-south guide on the top of the pressure vessel is
parallel to the line at the top of the hole.

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2.2.2 Using a Surface Seismometer

You can use a seismometer installed at the surface to determine the orientation of the
horizontal (X and Y) components of the Trillium Compact Posthole once installed in the
hole. This method involves comparing the recorded output of both seismometers and
computing the relative direction of seismic wave motion to determine the relative azimuth
of the down-hole Trillium Compact Posthole compared to the surface seismometer.

When you install the reference seismometer on the surface, ensure that you align it
carefully in a known orientation. After both seismometers have been installed, leave the
installations undisturbed for at least one hour while collecting data from both. When you
are ready to perform your data analysis, ensure that your post-processing software is
equipped to apply a rotation transformation, allowing it to measure and correct the
relative azimuth.

One advantage of this method of alignment is that it allows you to verify the performance
of the down-hole instrument: it should be quieter than the surface instrument.

Contact Nanometrics (see Contacting Nanometrics on page 68) for more information on

using this method of alignment.

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2.3 Troubleshooting Your Installation

It is normal to see spikes in the horizontal channels of a Trillium Compact as the seismometer
settles after installation. However, if these spikes do not diminish after a few days, there may
be a problem with the installation and the site should be visited to determine the cause of
the spikes.

Table 2-1 lists common types of noise, including horizontal spikes, that may occur and
reasons why the noise may be present.

Table 2-1 Types of noise and possible causes for posthole deployments

Noise Type Possible Cause

Spikes on the horizontal channels  There is unstable soil around the seismometer.
 There is a force pulling on the cable.
Continuous low frequency  The hole is not sealed and air drafts are causing
wander (random noise, larger on temperature fluctuations.
horizontal channels)
Spikes on the vertical channel  Usually due to electrical system noise. For example, power
supply noise from a battery charging circuit, or interference
from a strong magnetic or radio source that is nearby.
The mass positions are large, but  The Trillium Compact is powered and not level or was
slowly trending towards zero, and powered during levelling
one or more of the main velocity When a Trillium Compact is left powered while not level, it
outputs has an offset on the order can take as long as a few hours for the unit to recover after
of several volts. levelling. More importantly, when in this state, the unit is
unresponsive to ground motion. For short-term deployments
or when immediate confirmation that the sensor is working
properly is required, briefly setting the seismometer in short-
period mode allows the unit to recover immediately and
produce ground-motion recordings.
For fast recovery after levelling do one of the following
• Leave the sensor un-powered until after it is level
• Power cycle the unit, which momentarily puts the unit
in short-period mode during start up
• Access the user interface, put the unit into short-period
mode, and then immediately return it to long-period
mode (see Section 7.3 “Seismometer Control” on
page 36)
• Use the control lines on the digitizer to briefly put the
unit into short-period mode, and then return it to long-
period mode

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Performing a Surface Vault
Installation
(1) The contents of this chapter are applicable to Trillium Compact, model numbers TC120-
SV1, TC20-SV1, TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2.
(2) For model numbers TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2, the optional bubble level will
be required and the optional adjustable locking feet kit may be required when performing
a surface vault installation. See Table 1-1 “List of cables and accessories” on page 4.

3.1 Planning Your Installation

Before deploying your seismometer, you should have an understanding of how you will
install and insulate it. The installation must be designed to provide a stable base for the
seismometer without any forces or disturbances acting on it.

Three common types of installations are described in Section 3.3 “Common Types of
Installations” on page 14. These are vault installations (which usually involve the
construction of a vault and pier, see Section 3.2 on page 13 for recommendation on pier
construction), temporary installations on rock, and temporary installations where the
seismometer is buried in sediment.

The installations described in Section 3.3 incorporate installation design guidelines that aim
to reduce the possibility of installation-related noise. Horizontal spikes in the signal are
indicative of installation-related issues, and it is normal to see horizontal spikes following
installation. However, if the spikes do not diminish after a few days, there may be a problem
with the installation. See Section 3.9 “Troubleshooting Your Installation” on page 25 for
more information.

3.2 Recommendations for Pier Construction

If your installation involves the construction of a pier, use Table 3-1 as a guide to
constructing it:

Table 3-1 Recommended pier design specifications

Material Concrete. Homogeneous, 50% Portland cement and 50% sieved sand (see
Section 3.2.1 “Choosing the Right Concrete” on page 14).
Size Large enough to fit all required seismometers, cables, and insulation.
Thickness Within the range of 2 in. to 4 in. on top of bedrock.
Surface Smooth, level, and clear of debris.
Decoupling Decouple the pier from the vault walls (see Section 3.2.2 “Decoupling the Pier
and Vault Walls” on page 14).

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3.2.1 Choosing the Right Concrete

The concrete used in a seismic pier should be as homogeneous as possible to avoid
inducing tilts from differing thermal coefficients of expansion. To create a homogeneous
concrete mixture do not use any aggregates and ensure the concrete is free of air
bubbles. Steel reinforcement is not necessary as strength is not a concern in seismic piers.

The recommended concrete mixture is 50 percent Portland cement and 50 percent sieved
sand.1 After pouring the concrete, shake it to allow trapped bubbles to escape. Allow
24-hours for the concrete to harden before positioning the seismometer on the pier.

The pier may generate spurious signals as the concrete cures, which can take two to
four weeks.

3.2.2 Decoupling the Pier and Vault Walls

When setting up the concrete forms for the pier, include a gap between the edge of the
concrete and the walls of the vault. Decoupling the pier and the vault walls prevents the
transfer of non-seismic forces, such as wind, from the vault walls to the pier. Such forces can
cause the pier to tilt or twist and obscure the desired seismic signal. These signals are mostly
long period, so vault wall decoupling is critical for quiet site long period studies.

3.3 Common Types of Installations

Two common types of installations for the standard Trillium Compact are long-term vault
installations and temporary installations on rock. The following sections describe each of
these installation options.

3.3.1 Vault Installations

Vault installations can be at or below the surface and usually include a pier that provides
a level platform for the seismometer to sit on and good coupling to the ground (see
Section 3.2 “Recommendations for Pier Construction” on page 13). Insulation of the pier,
vault roof, and most importantly the seismometer, is required.

The pier must be insulated from air currents to prevent tilt noise caused by the thermal
expansion or contraction of its surface. For a pier solidly connected to the ground (such as
a poured cement pad on top of bedrock), a useful technique is to place a thick quilt over
the surface of the pier. Cutting a hole out of the quilt allows it to drop over the insulating
cover of the seismometer and cover the pier.

Thoroughly insulate the roof of the vault and any exposed sides. Seal the door and any
other openings. Do not use a thermostat-controlled heating or cooling system in the vault
because the temperature cycling will show up as periodic noise in the seismic signal.

Insulate the seismometer to protect it from drafts and temperature change. To achieve
optimal insulation of the seismometer, the following optional equipment is recommended:
a Carrying Case / Insulating Cover (Nanometrics part number 16862). In addition, if you are

1. Bob Uhrhammer and Bill Karavas, Guidelines for Installing Broadband Seismic Instrumentation (Berkeley:
The Regents of the University of California, 1997),
http://seismo.berkeley.edu/bdsn/instrumentation/guidelines.html.

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installing model number TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC or TC20-PH2 as a surface vault

seismometer, you will also need the optional levelling bubble (Nanometrics part number
MSC0225) and the adjustable levelling feet kit (Nanometrics part number 17245). See Table
1-1 “List of cables and accessories” on page 4 for a description of these items. See also
Section 3.7.2 “Insulating with a Rigid Foam Box” on page 22 for another method of
insulating the seismometer.

To perform this type of deployment,

1. Plug the cable into the seismometer.

2. Follow Section 3.5 “Best Practices for Alignment and Levelling” on page 18 to properly
align and level the seismometer.

3. Place the insulating cover over the seismometer, fitting the cable exit slot over the
cable. For more detailed instructions, see Section 3.8 “Installing a Trillium Compact in
the Insulating Cover” on page 22.

4. Power the seismometer, and using a digitizer (see Chapter 5, “Configuring Your
System”) or the Trillium Compact Web interface (see Chapter 6, “Configuring Serial
Communications” and Chapter 7, “Using the Web Interface”), verify a level installation
by checking that the mass positions are within an acceptable range (at or very close
to zero).

3.3.2 Temporary Installations on Rock

Installations on rock are at the surface level and the seismometer must be in a sealed,
insulated enclosure to protect it from the elements or other environmental disturbances. To
achieve optimal levelness and insulation, the following optional equipment is
recommended: a levelling cradle (Nanometrics part number 16863) and a Carrying Case
/ Insulating Cover (Nanometrics part number 16862). In addition, if you are installing model
number TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC or TC20-PH2 as a surface vault seismometer, you will also
need the optional levelling bubble (Nanometrics part number MSC0225). See Table 1-1
“List of cables and accessories” on page 4 for descriptions of these items. See also Section
3.5 “Best Practices for Alignment and Levelling” on page 18 and Section 3.7.2 “Insulating
with a Rigid Foam Box” on page 22 for other methods of levelling and insulating the
seismometer.

To perform this type of deployment,

1. Locate the flattest available surface for your installation.

2. Plug the cable into the seismometer and secure it to the side of the unit with a tie
wrap.

3. Remove the feet from the seismometer and retain for future deployments.

4. Follow Section 3.5 “Best Practices for Alignment and Levelling” on page 18 and
Section B.1 “Using the Levelling Cradle” on page 61 to properly align and level the
seismometer in the levelling cradle.

5. Lay sand in a ring around the levelling cradle to create a flat and level sealing surface
for the insulating cover.

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6. Place the insulating cover over the seismometer, fitting the cable exit slot over the
cable. See Section 3.8 “Installing a Trillium Compact in the Insulating Cover” on
page 22.

(1) If the fit around the seismometer is too tight, remove the inner layer of foam from the
insulating cover. Retain the pieces of foam for future deployments and transport.
(2) It may be necessary to place a weight on the insulating cover or to bury it to protect it from
weather or other disturbances.

7. Power the seismometer, and using a digitizer (see Chapter 5, “Configuring Your
System”) or the Trillium Compact Web interface (see Chapter 6, “Configuring Serial
Communications” and Chapter 7, “Using the Web Interface”), verify a level installation
by checking that the mass positions are within an acceptable range (at or very close
to zero).

3.4 Alignment, Levelling, and Placement Features

To aid in the proper alignment of your seismometer, each Trillium Compact has:

 Vertically-scribed marks on the north-south axis.

 A north-south guide on the top of the case.

Chapter 11 “Physical Features and Dimensions” provides illustrations that show the relative
orientation of the alignment features in top, bottom, and side views.

For levelling purposes, each Trillium Compact is equipped with:

 Three adjustable-height feet with lock nuts. A 2.5 mm hex screwdriver works well to
tighten the lock nuts in place.

For models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2, the adjustable locking feet kit
(Nanometrics part number 17245) is optional.

 A levelling bubble on the cover.

For models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2, the bubble level (Nanometrics part
number MSC0225) is optional.

Optional levelling tools for a Trillium Compact are:

 A levelling cradle for rapid levelling on prepared piers or for installation on hard
uneven or unlevel surfaces.

 A spike kit for the levelling cradle that facilitates installations in sediment, soil, gravel, or
sand.

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Figure 3-1 shows the north scribe line on a Trillium Compact aligned with a line drawn on
the installation surface that is parallel to north-south.

Figure 3-1 Example of seismometer alignment using vertically scribed marks

Vertical scribe mark

(north) North-south line
on installation surface
N
The seismometer in Figure 3-1 illustrates model numbers TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1, but it is also
applicable to model numbers TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2 (stainless steel
enclosure).

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Figure 3-2 shows the case-top north-south guide with a dashed line indicating where a
straight-edge, staked line, or laser level line would fall.

Figure 3-2 Example of seismometer alignment using the case-top guide

North-south guide

Straight-edge, staked
line, or laser level line

The seismometer in Figure 3-2 illustrates model numbers TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1, but it is also
applicable to model numbers TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2 (stainless steel
enclosure).

3.5 Best Practices for Alignment and Levelling

Following are best practices for aligning and levelling a Trillium Compact using the
vertically scribed marks on the north-south axis or the north-south guide on the top of the
case:

 Prepare the north-south guideline using one of the following methods:

a) Using the north-south vertically scribed marks: Draw a line on the installation surface
parallel to north-south.
b) Using the case-top north-south guide: Stake a line (for example, using fishing line)
parallel to north-south, directly over the location where you want to install the
Trillium Compact.
The north-south line must be aligned to true north. If you are using a magnetic
compass, account for the local magnetic declination when drawing the line. For
underground installations, you can transfer north measured at the surface to below
ground by traversing with survey equipment.

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 When you are ready to remove the Trillium Compact seismometer from the box, gently
place it on the installation surface in an approximate north-south alignment.

If you are using the optional levelling cradle, you will not be levelling the seismometer using
the levelling feet as described in the next bullet. Instead, see Section B.1 “Using the Levelling
Cradle” on page 61, or if you are using the levelling cradle with its optional spike kit, see
Section B.2 “Using the Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit” on page 62.

 Use the adjustable feet, as required, and the levelling bubble on the cover to level the
seismometer. Centre the bubble as precisely as possible inside the black ring to ensure
that the Z output is measuring true vertical motion. To level the Trillium Compact using
the levelling feet:
a) Extend the levelling feet as little as possible to achieve a level seismometer. Try to
keep one of the feet fully retracted into the seismometer base for greatest stability.
b) When the Trillium Compact is level, lock the feet by rotating each locking nut tightly
against the seismometer base, while preventing the foot from turning. Insert an
Allen key into one of the holes in the locking nut to act as a lever and help tighten
the locking nut. A foot that is properly locked will not turn easily when touched.

 Precisely align the Trillium Compact to north-south by:

a) Using the north-south vertically scribed marks: Align the vertical north-south scribe
lines on the base of the seismometer (see Figure 3-1 “Example of seismometer
alignment using vertically scribed marks” on page 17) with the line drawn on the
installation surface.
b) Using the north-south guide: Align the case-top north-south guide to the staked line,
laser level line, or straight edge (see Figure 3-2 “Example of seismometer alignment
using the case-top guide” on page 18).
Care is required when aligning the seismometer to avoid sighting at an angle and
introducing a parallax error.

 After aligning the seismometer, verify that it is still level. It may need to be adjusted due
to unevenness of the installation surface.

 If you relevelled the Trillium Compact and you are levelling it with the adjustable feet,
ensure the feet are locked when finished.

3.6 Theory and Practice of Insulation

Seismometer installations must be thermally insulated to achieve optimal performance,
particularly at long periods. There are two broad categories of thermal effects that can
cause unwanted noise:
a) Direct thermal sensitivity.
The Trillium Compact is designed to minimize temperature sensitivity; however, like all
seismometers, it has some residual thermal response. There are several components in
a seismometer that are temperature sensitive, such as the springs that suspend the
inertial masses. The effect of direct thermal sensitivity typically shows up as very long
period noise on the vertical channel, in particular, a periodic diurnal variation in
response to the day-to-night temperature cycle.

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b) Thermally induced tilt.

All seismometers are susceptible to thermally induced tilt. Tilt converts the strong
vertical acceleration of gravity into an apparent horizontal acceleration. There are
many mechanisms for the conversion of temperature into tilt. For example:
• Movement of air surrounding the seismometer can cause non-uniform thermal
expansion or contraction of the pier and the seismometer. Such effects typically
have an apparent ground-motion spectrum that is peaked at long periods.
• Movement of anything touching the seismometer, including the digitizer cable and
insulation materials, can cause forces to develop that change with temperature.
Stick-slip effects typically transform these forces into sudden step changes in tilt. The
apparent ground-motion power spectral density is, therefore, inversely proportional
to the square of frequency.

For seismometers that are well temperature-compensated, such as the Trillium Compact,
but are improperly installed, thermally induced tilt on the horizontal channels will be more
significant than direct thermal sensitivity on the vertical channel. Furthermore, due to the
natural convection of air, thermally induced tilt is even observable in sealed underground
vaults where the temperature is very stable.

Therefore, the objectives of a good installation are to:

 Insulate the seismometer from temperature changes.

 Prevent the movement of air on the surface of the seismometer.

 Insulate the installation surface from temperature changes.

 Prevent the movement of air on the surface of the installation surface, including the
sides and underside of surfaces (for instance, piers that consist of a slab raised above
the vault floor).

 Prevent anything from touching and thereby applying a mechanical force to the
seismometer.

To meet these objectives and achieve the best possible performance, observe the
following practices:

 The vault (the space or room where the seismometer is installed) must provide a stable
thermal environment. This environment is typically achieved through careful site
selection and by installing the seismometer below ground.

 The digitizer cable must be flexible enough to bend without applying significant forces
to the seismometer. Nanometrics provides ultra-flexible cables designed for this
purpose (see Section 1.4 “Cables and Accessories” on page 4).

 The insulation surrounding the seismometer must:

• Have low thermal conductivity to insulate the seismometer from temperature
changes.
• Form a nearly airtight seal against the pier to block drafts.
• Fit closely around the seismometer, eliminating space that may cause convection
inside the cover.
• Not touch the seismometer or the cable. The insulation is subject to temperature
expansion and can exert measurable forces on the seismometer.

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3.7 Insulation Options

There are two options for insulating a Trillium Compact:
a) Use the Trillium Compact Carrying Case / Insulating Cover (Nanometrics part number
16862). See also Section 3.7.1 “Insulating with the Insulating Cover” on page 21. This is
the recommended method.
b) Make a freestanding cover out of rigid foam insulation that is sealed against air drafts,
does not touch the seismometer, and minimizes the volume of air trapped between
the insulating box and the seismometer. See also Section 3.7.2 “Insulating with a Rigid
Foam Box” on page 22.

Before proceeding with the implementation of thermal insulation, there are many aspects
you must consider in the context of the particular site and type of installation. Section 3.1
“Planning Your Installation” on page 13.

3.7.1 Insulating with the Insulating Cover

Nanometrics recommends insulating your Trillium Compact seismometer with its specially
designed Carrying Case / Insulating Cover, which, when properly installed, will attenuate
temperature-induced long-period noise.

Made of rigid plastic and lined with insulating foam, the insulating cover is a rugged,
form-fitting cover that creates a close fit around a Trillium Compact without touching any
part of the seismometer or the cable. When fitted over a Trillium Compact, the cover
creates a small air gap between itself and the seismometer. This gap reduces the potential
for noise by preventing the cover or other objects from exerting force on the seismometer;
by minimizing the amount of air trapped under the cover, thereby eliminating convection;
and by providing a cable channel that reduces heat conduction through the cable.

Figure 3-3 Trillium Compact insulating cover features and dimensions

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3.7.2 Insulating with a Rigid Foam Box

If you are not using the recommended Trillium Compact Insulating Cover, insulate the
seismometer with a rigid foam box. Use the following recommendations as a guide when
constructing the box:

When installing a Trillium Compact in a rigid foam insulating box, follow the best practices for
aligning and levelling the seismometer that are outlined in Section 3.5 “Best Practices for
Alignment and Levelling” on page 18.

 Construct a five-sided box that is large enough to house the seismometer without
touching the sides of the seismometer or the cable.
Preferably, use rigid foam insulation with foil on one or both sides. There are two
advantages to the foil-coated foam: it has a higher insulation resistance, and you can
make the joints with aluminium tape, which is quicker and cleaner than glue.

 Use insulation that is at least 5 cm (2 in.) thick. Depending on the temperature stability
of the site, additional or thicker boxes can be used.

 Cut a groove at the appropriate point in the bottom of the box to allow the
seismometer cable to exit.

 Seal the box joints properly:

• For rigid foam without a foil coating, glue the joints using polystyrene adhesive or
polyurethane resin, taking care not to leave any gaps.
• For rigid foam with a foil coating, tape the joints with aluminium tape, taking care
not to leave any gaps.

 Ensure there is a good seal between the bottom edge of the box and the pier.
Adhesive weatherstripping that is 1.25cm (0.5 in.) thick creates a good seal.

 Ensure the thermal insulation box is held firmly in place by setting a weight on top of it.
A brick works well for this purpose.

 Strain relieve the cable to the installation surface, close to the seismometer. Tie-wraps
with tie-wrap anchors or a heavy object are effective tools for achieving strain relief.

3.8 Installing a Trillium Compact in the Insulating Cover

The contents of this section are applicable to Trillium Compact, model numbers TC120-SV1,
TC20-SV1.

Use the following steps to install a Trillium Compact in the Carrying Case / Insulating Cover
for insulating purposes at the installation site:

1. Prepare a flat installation surface.

2. Secure the cable to the side of the seismometer with a tie wrap (see Figure 3-4 “Cut-
away illustration of a Trillium Compact in the insulating cover” on page 24).

3. Use tape or a heavy object to strain relieve the cable on the installation surface.

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4. Use your preferred method of aligning and levelling the seismometer (see Section 3.5
“Best Practices for Alignment and Levelling” on page 18).

If you are burying the Trillium Compact and its insulating cover, pull all of the foam out of the
cover. Retain these pieces of foam for future installations and transport. See Section 3.4
“Alignment, Levelling, and Placement Features” on page 16 for more information on buried
installations.

5. Optionally, place the lid on top of the insulating cover and secure it with the latches
(see Figure 3-4 “Cut-away illustration of a Trillium Compact in the insulating cover” on
page 24). If you choose not to attach the lid to the top of the cover, retain the lid for
future deployments and transport.

6. Hold the insulating cover above the sensor, aligning the cable slot with the cable (see
Figure 3-4 “Cut-away illustration of a Trillium Compact in the insulating cover” on
page 24). Ensure that the insulating cover is centred on the centreline of the Trillium
Compact

7. Gradually lower the insulating cover over the Trillium Compact, ensuring that the
insulating cover does not touch the seismometer.

Ensuring the cover does not touch the seismometer is important for keeping the seismometer
level and aligned.

If you are using the optional levelling cradle (see Section B.1 “Using the Levelling
Cradle” on page 61), the inside of the foam will fit snugly with the legs of the levelling
cradle.

8. Place a brick or other heavy object on top of the insulating cover to compress the
foam gasket on the bottom of the insulating cover.

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Figure 3-4 Cut-away illustration of a Trillium Compact in the insulating cover

The seismometer in Figure 3-4 illustrates model numbers TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1.

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3.9 Troubleshooting Your Installation

It is normal to see spikes in the horizontal channels of a Trillium Compact as the seismometer
settles after installation. However, if these spikes do not diminish after a few days, there may
be a problem with the installation and the site should be visited to determine the cause of
the spikes.

Table 3-2 lists common types of noise, including horizontal spikes, that may occur and
reasons why the noise may be present.

Table 3-2 Types of noise and possible causes for surface vault deployments

Noise Type Possible Cause

Spikes on the horizontal channels  The feet of the seismometer are not locked.
 There is a force pulling on the cable.
 There is something touching the sides of the seismometer.
Continuous low frequency  Insulation is missing or not well sealed, allowing drafts to
wander (random noise, larger on blow over the seismometer.
horizontal channels)  There are forces, such as wind, acting on the installation.
Spikes on the vertical channel  Usually due to electrical system noise. For example, power
supply noise from a battery charging circuit, or interference
from a strong magnetic or radio source that is nearby.
The mass positions are large, but  The Trillium Compact is powered and not level
slowly trending towards zero, and When a Trillium Compact is left powered while not level, it
one or more of the main velocity can take as long as a few hours for the unit to recover after
outputs has an offset on the order levelling. More importantly, when in this state, the unit is
of several volts. unresponsive to ground motion. For short-term deployments
or when immediate confirmation that the sensor is working
properly is required, briefly setting the seismometer in short-
period mode allows the unit to recover immediately and
produce ground-motion recordings.
For fast recovery after levelling do one of the following
• Leave the sensor un-powered until after it is level
• Power cycle the unit, which momentarily puts the unit
in short-period mode during start up
• Access the user interface, put the unit into short-period
mode, and then immediately return it to long-period
mode (see Section 7.3 “Seismometer Control” on
page 36)
• Use the control lines on the digitizer to briefly put the
unit into short-period mode, and then return it to long-
period mode

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Part 2
Operation

 Input and Output Signals

 Configuring Your System

 Configuring Serial Communications

 Using the Web Interface

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Chapter 4
Input and Output Signals

4.1 UVW and XYZ Output Signals

The Trillium Compact can be configured to output either XYZ or UVW signals. The “natural”
output is UVW where the outputs represent the actual motion of the three sensor
component masses. The “conventional” seismometer output is XYZ where the outputs
represent horizontal and vertical motion.

To understand the difference between the UVW and XYZ outputs, see Figure 4-1. By design,
the Trillium Compact axes are identical and sense motion in orthogonal directions. The U
axis is aligned with the X axis when projected into the horizontal plane.

Figure 4-1 Trillium Compact axis orientation

V
Y

U
W

This arrangement results in the following transformation equations:

u 2 0 2 x
1
-------
v = ⋅ –1 3 2 ⋅ y (EQ 1)
6
w –1 – 3 2 z

x 2 –1 –1 u
1
y = ------- ⋅ 0 3 – 3 ⋅ v (EQ 2)
6
z 2 2 2 w

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The first equation is implemented mechanically in the Trillium Compact through the
orientation of the individual axes. The second equation is implemented electronically
when the Trillium Compact is in XYZ mode.

Alternatively, seismic data can be digitized with the Trillium Compact seismometer in UVW
mode and the transformation to horizontal and vertical signals being implemented when
the data are processed. For example, UVW mode is particularly useful for the calibration of
the transfer function of individual axes.

To account for the source impedance, see Table 9-1 “Ground motion response nominal
parameters for 120 s models” on page 45 and Table 9-2 “Ground motion response nominal
parameters for 20 s models” on page 45.

4.2 Serial RS-232 Communications

The 9600 baud serial communications interface is provided on the Rx and Tx signals of the
connector, where the DGND serves as the ground reference for the serial link.

A Trillium Compact automatically senses when valid serial communication on the Rx line is
being received, and turns on the Tx line to transmit. The Rx and Tx signals share pins with the
CTRL and UVW control inputs. Care must be taken to ensure that the UVW/TX line is not
being simultaneously driven by the digitizer/data logger. When serial communications are
occurring on the Rx and Tx lines, the control line signals CTRL (or SP/LP) and UVW that share
these pins are not effective. For more details, see Section 4.3 “Digital Control Input Signals”
on page 28, Section 10.1 “Pinout for 14-Pin Trillium Compact Connector” on page 49, and
Section 10.2 “Pinout for 16-Pin Trillium Compact Connector” on page 50.

4.3 Digital Control Input Signals

A Trillium Compact has two digital control input signals: UVW and CTRL. UVW changes the
output mode (which is XYZ by default) to UVW mode. By default, CTRL enables the
calibration function. You can reconfigure the CTRL control line to activate short period
mode (the default is long period mode) instead. The seismometer will respond to changes
in the state of the control signal within 5 s.

(1) Long period mode is the normal mode for collecting seismic data. However, you may want
to use short period mode when bench-testing the Trillium Compact, such as by tilting the
seismometer to see the response of the mass position outputs. When in long period mode,
the mass positions ramp very slowly and changes due to tilt may take several minutes. In
short period mode the mass positions respond within a second, allowing you to watch the
effects of tilting the seismometer.
(2) The UVW/TX input control signal is disabled when the seismometer is transmitting serial
communications because this pin is used as the RS-232 serial Tx output signal. For more
information on serial communication with a Trillium Compact, see Section 4.2 “Serial RS-232
Communications” on page 28 and Chapter 6 “Configuring Serial Communications.”

Each input is optically isolated from the input voltage, the output signals, and the
calibration input signals. Therefore, signals applied to these pins must be referenced to
DGND rather than ±PWR or AGND.

All of the control input signals are active-high signals. See Table 10-1 “Pinout for 14-pin
Trillium Compact connector” on page 49 and Table 10-2 “Pinout for 16-pin Trillium
Compact connector” on page 50 for details. All inputs can tolerate at least ±15V except
for UVW/TX which can tolerate voltages from –7 V to +15 V. The CTRL and UVW control lines

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are shared with the serial RS-232 port (see Section 4.4). It is recommended that you use +12
V to activate these control lines and high impedance for deactivation.

4.4 Calibration Input Signal

The Calibration Input Signal is provided to allow for relative calibration of the seismometer
across frequency and over time.

Since the Trillium Compact is a symmetric triaxial seismometer, calibration is best performed
on the individual axes (UVW) rather than the horizontal and vertical outputs (XYZ).
Individual axis outputs can be digitized by placing the seismometer in UVW mode. For
instruction on how to set a Trillium Compact to UVW mode, see Section 4.1 “UVW and XYZ
Output Signals” on page 27.

4.5 State-of-Health Output Signal

The mass position output signal (MAXIMUM MASS POSITION) is provided to monitor the
effect of tilt and temperature on the spring that sets the rest position of the boom. As with
the calibration signal, this signal represents the state of the individual axes (UVW) rather
than the horizontal and vertical outputs (XYZ).

This signal represents the axis with the highest absolute mass position and its operational
range is ±4 V, with an optimal output of 0 V. A maximum mass position output signal greater
than ±3.5 V indicates that the Trillium Compact is no longer sufficiently level and may not
be providing useful seismic signals. Should this occur, visit the installation site as soon as
possible to level the unit.

4.6 Power Consumption

Following are power consumption scenarios typical of Trillium Compact seismometers:

 Under normal operation (the unit is level, there is a low seismic signal, the unit has
settled for at least 30 minutes, and the RS-232 serial port is not transmitting), power
consumption for 120 s models is approximately 180mW and approximately 195 mW for
20 s models.

 On start-up, power consumption may briefly surge to 1W.

 Once level and operating normally, any additional power consumption above normal
quiescent is roughly proportional to the output signal and is largely independent of
mass position, providing the seismometer does not shift and is no longer sufficiently
level.

 For a settled and level unit, a seismic signal that approaches the maximum clip level of
the seismometer may draw as much as a 0.8 W peak (the average power
consumption would be much lower).

For long cables, account for the resistive voltage drop due to the cable length and, if
necessary, increase the voltage at the source.
For example, 50 m of 24 AWG wire has a resistance of 4.2 Ω in each direction. Therefore the
voltage drop due to the possible 100 mA startup inrush at 10 V would be 0.84 V. The supply
should also be able to sustain a 1 W peak output at a voltage that guarantees the
seismometer receives at least 9 V.

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Chapter 5
Configuring Your System

5.1 Selecting the Trillium Compact Configuration for a

Nanometrics Instrument
The method for selecting the default Trillium Compact configuration on a Nanometrics
instrument varies by instrument. For instance, current generation Nanometrics instruments
feature an on-board sensor library that contains the default configurations for all
Nanometrics sensors; whereas, an instrument such as a version 2.x Taurus uses a
configuration file that is uploaded to the instrument.

Table 5-1 provides a guide to the method for sensor selection on several Nanometrics
instruments as well as basic instructions for sensor selection. Refer to the user guide for your
instrument for full instructions on using it with a seismometer. Complete the sensor selection
through the Web interface of the instrument, or if you are using a Taurus portable
seismograph, you can also use the display screen on the unit.

Table 5-1 Configuring a Nanometrics instrument for a Trillium Compact

Sensor selection
Instrument type Instructions for selection
method
Centaur Sensor library 1. Log into the instrument.
Taurus version 3.x 2. Select Default Trillium Compact from the Sensor Library
and greater list.
3. Apply and Commit.
Cygnus 205

Taurus version 2.x Configuration file 1. Contact Nanometrics to get the configuration file for
the Trillium Compact.
2. Log into the Taurus.
3. Select Advanced Configuration from the Status menu.
4. Select Browse and navigate to the Trillium Compact.cfg
file.
5. Select Upload.
6. When the upload is complete, Apply and Commit.

5.2 Using a Trident Digitizer with a Trillium Compact

Refer to the user guide for your Trident digitizer for complete instructions on using it with a
seismometer. Nanometrics cable 17334-nM (where n is the length of the cable in metres)
can be used to connect a Trillium Compact to a Trident digitizer. See Table 1-1 “List of
cables and accessories” on page 4 for descriptions of these cables.

This section does not refer to Trident 305 digitizers. A Trident 305 is configured though the
NMXbus-enabled device to which it is attached, such as a Taurus or Cygnus. Refer to the
Trident 305 user guide and the user guide for the NMXbus device for configuration details.

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Following are instructions for configuring your Trident and NaqsServer to work with a Trillium
Compact seismometer.

1. Match the settings on the Configuration tab of Nanometrics UI to those in the following
table.

Nanometrics UI Configuration Tab

Value Notes
Section Setting

Front End Input Range 40 Vpp

Sensor Control High Voltage Level +5 V
Calibration Mode Voltage (active high)
Line 1 Level Low Low is equivalent to XYZ mode
and High is equivalent to UVW
mode.
Line 2 Level Low Set to High to enable
calibration. The unit can also
be configured to use this line to
enable short-period mode. See
Section 4.3 “Digital Control Input
Signals” on page 28

Line 3 Level Not used

2. Ensure the NaqsServer Naqs.stn file contains the following information:

[ Sensor ] // predefined sensor - all fields mandatory

TypeName = TrilliumCompact // name of this prototype - may be same as model
Model = TrilliumCompact // sensor model name
SensitivityUnits = M/S // units of ground motion: M, M/S or M/S**2
Sensitivity = 0.3e9 // counts per unit of ground motion
SensitivityFreq = 1.0 // frequency at which sensitivity is correct
CalibrationUnits = VOLTS // calibration input units: VOLTS or AMPS
CalCoilResistance = 133000 // calibration coil resistance in ohms
CalCoilConstant = 100 // calibration units per m/s/s
CalEnable = 2 // digital enable signal for calibration
CalRelay = 0 // analog relay for calibration (0 = use channel number)
MassCenterEnable = -1 // digital enable signal for mass centering
MassCenterDuration = -1 // duration of mass centering signal (optional)
CalSource = Trident // gives the source of the Cal signal

Note that the CalCoilResistance and CalCoilConstant parameters need to be

adjusted according to the selected model of Trillium Compact. The computation of
the nominal system sensitivity of your model is described in Section 5.3 “Increasing
System Sensitivity” on page 32. The correct values for your model can be found in
Section 9.1 “Frequency Response for 120 s and 20 s Models” on page 44. The
CalCoilConstant in V/(m/s²) is simply the inverse of the calibration input sensitivity in
(m/s²)/V.

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5.3 Increasing System Sensitivity

If increased system sensitivity is required for either the Taurus or Trident, decrease the
digitizer input range and increase the sensitivity. Use Table 5-2 as a guide.

Increasing the sensitivity of a digitizer by decreasing the input range below the 40 Vpp output
range of the Trillium Compact can cause the digitizer to clip during the strong events.

Table 5-2 Increasing system sensitivity

Digitizer Input Digitizer Digitizer Sensitivity Sensor Sensitivity System Sensitivity

Range (Vpp) Software Gain (count /µV) (V/(m/s)) (Counts/(m/s))

40 1 0.4 750 0.3e9

16 1 1 750 0.75e9
8 1 2 750 1.5e9
4 1 4 750 3e9
2 1 8 750 6e9

Note that the exact nominal system sensitivity will vary depending on the normalization
frequency (typically 1 Hz) and the lower corner period. The exact nominal sensor sensitivity
for a particular model of Trillium Compact can be taken from the appropriate table in
Section 9.1 “Frequency Response for 120 s and 20 s Models” on page 44.

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Chapter 6
Configuring Serial Communications

6.1 About Serial Communications

The Trillium Compact has an integrated Web server that is accessible using a standard Web
browser and the RS-232 serial interface. The sensor web page can be used to retrieve
sensor information, access state-of-health information and control features, and configure
the sensor.

The simplest way to connect to the sensor’s web page is to use a Nanometrics digitizer,
such as Centaur or Taurus (see Section 6.2 “Connecting through a Nanometrics Digitizer”
on page 33). The web page is accessed through the Web interface of the digitizer (See
Chapter 7, “Using the Web Interface”). The Web Interface is a series of Web pages that
retrieve information about the seismometer, access state-of-health (SOH) information and
control features, and configure the seismometer.

If you are not using a Nanometrics digitizer, connecting to a Trillium Compact requires an
IP connection over a Serial port. Most modern PCs, laptops, and handheld devices do not
include a physical serial port. In addition, currently supported Microsoft Windows operating
systems do not support Serial Line Internet Protocol (SLIP) connections.

Nanometrics has developed a simple, low-cost appliance that converts ethernet to SLIP to
allow IP communication with sensors from PCs or laptops. Alternatively, advanced Linux
users can build their own SLIP appliance. For more information about the Nanometrics SLIP
appliance, instructions on building your own SLIP appliance, and other methods of
accessing your Nanometrics smart sensor web interface, refer to the Nanometrics
technical note Accessing Your Nanometrics Smart Sensor Web Interface, or go to
support.nanometrics.ca.

6.2 Connecting through a Nanometrics Digitizer

Current generation Nanometrics digitizers support the Web interface of the Trillium
Compact, allowing you to access the Web-based features of the seismometer through the
Web interfaces of those instruments. This integration will allow you to access the unit
remotely, without requiring a serial cable and a SLIP connection on a co-located
computer.

See the documentation for your Nanometrics digitizer for details on how to access the
Trillium Compact Web interface through these instruments. See Section 7.1 “About the
Web Interface” on page 35 for descriptions of each page.

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 Chapter 6  Configuring Serial Communications

6.3 Calculating the IP Address

You will need the IP address if you are not using a Nanometrics digitizer to access
thesensor’s Web interface (see Chapter 7, “Using the Web Interface”). The IP address was
provided with the unit. If you cannot locate the IP address, you can calculate it using the
method described below.

The IP address of the Trillium Compact is 2.23.x.y, where x and y are calculated from the
serial number of the unit. To calculate the values for x and y in the serial number
x = SerialNumber / 256
Use the resulting whole number for the value of x and discard any decimal amounts.
y = SerialNumber modulo 256

The reference to modulo 256 in the equation for y means that it is the remainder after 256 is
divided into the serial number.

Given that the IP address of a Trillium Compact is 2.23.x.y, and assuming a serial number of
800, you can use the above equations to determine that:
 x = 800 / 256, which results in a value of 3.125. Only the whole number is required, leaving x
equal to 3.
 y = 800 modulo 256, which results in a value of 32.
Therefore, having solved for x and y, the IP address of a Trillium Compact with a serial
number of 800 is 2.23.3.32.

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Chapter 7
Using the Web Interface

7.1 About the Web Interface

The Trillium Compact has an integrated Web server that is available using a standard Web
browser and the RS-232 serial interface (see Chapter 6 “Configuring Serial
Communications”). This interface is provided through either the serial connector or the
main connector. Use the Web interface to retrieve information about the unit, access
state-of-health information and control features, and to configure the unit.

Ensure that the proxy server is disabled when using a Web browser with a Trillium Compact.

The home page of the Trillium Compact presents links to other pages. The following
sections describe these pages:

 Section 7.2 “State-of-Health”

 Section 7.3 “Seismometer Control”

 Section 7.4 “Control Lines”

 Section 7.5 “Sensor Response”

 Section 7.6 “Hardware Information”

 Section 7.7 “Firmware”

The simplest way to access the sensor’s Web Interface is to use a Nanometrics digital
recorder. See Section 6.2 “Connecting through a Nanometrics Digitizer” on page 33.

If you’re not using a Nanometrics digital recorder, you will need to acquire a Nanometrics
appliance that converts ethernet to Serial Line Internet Protocol (SLIP) or build your own
SLIP device. For more information, see Section 6.1 “About Serial Communications” on
page 33.

Use this interface to retrieve information about the seismometer, access state-of-health
information and control features, and configure the seismometer. Access the Trillium
Compact Web interface through the Web interface of the Taurus or Centaur digital
recorder, or by connecting the optional cable 16978-2M, where 2M is the length of the
cable in metres, to an RS-232 port on a computer.

The serial port should not be accessed when the highest quality seismic signal is
desired as serial port traffic may cause low levels of noise on the analog output
signals of the Trillium Compact.

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 Chapter 7  Using the Web Interface

7.2 State-of-Health
The SOH page provides information that indicates the health and status of the unit. Click
the Refresh button to update the page with the current information.

The sections on the page are as follows:

 Mass Positions (Range ±4.000)

The mass position values for the U, V, and W axes. These values range from 0 V
(perfectly centred) to approximately ±4 V (when decentred and not able to respond
to ground motion). The mass position output on pin R of the connector is an analog
voltage that corresponds to the axis that is decentred the most. For example, if the U,
V, and W mass positions are +0.230 V, -2.200 V, and +1.024 V respectively, then the
analog mass position output would be approximately -2.200 V.
For mass position readings under ±2.5 V, the table cell is green, for readings from ±2.5 V
to ±3.5 V, the cell is yellow, and for readings above ±3.5 V, the cell is red.

 Temperature
The approximate unit temperature in degrees Celsius and Fahrenheit.

 Case tilt
Displays the tilt of the case from vertical in degrees.

The case tilt feature applies to all Trillium Compact models with serial numbers 2500 and
above.

7.3 Seismometer Control

The Seismometer Control page allows you to enable or disable calibration, change the
XYZ/UVW output mode, and change the long/short period mode. Click Apply to save your
settings. These settings will reset to the factory default settings when the firmware is
rebooted or the unit is power cycled.

(1) Once a control is set on this page, the corresponding digital control line is subsequently
ignored. Selecting the Use control line option tells the Trillium Compact to again obey the
control line for that function.
(2) Settings on this page are always reset to factory defaults on powered up or reboot.

The sections on the page are as follows:

 Calibration Enable
Calibration can be enabled for the three U, V, and W axes simultaneously, for a
specific axis, or disabled for all axes. Select Use control line to permit the control line
input to enable or disable calibration. The default setting is Use control line.

 Output Mode
Choose the output mode of XYZ or UVW (see Section 4.1 “UVW and XYZ Output
Signals” on page 27 for a definition of these modes). Select Use control line to permit

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 Chapter 7  Using the Web Interface

the control line input to select between XYZ and UVW modes. The default setting is Use
control line.

 Long or Short Period Mode

The lower corner of the seismometer response can be changed from the normal
operating mode of 120 s period to a “short period” response of approximately 1 s
period. This may be useful when levelling the seismometer, allowing you to see the
mass positions quickly respond to changes in tilt, or once the seismometer is levelled, to
allow the mass positions to quickly settle. Be sure to leave the seismometer in “120
second” (long period) mode when recording seismic signals. The default setting is Use
control line.

7.4 Control Lines

Use the Control Lines page to reconfigure the function of the CTRL/RX pin on the Trillium
Compact connector (referred to as Connector PIN D on the Web page). When set to a
positive voltage level (default), the CTRL/RX pin enables calibration. Alternatively, set this
pin to activate the short period response of the seismometer.

Click Apply to save your settings. This setting is retained when the Trillium Compact is
powered off or rebooted.

7.5 Sensor Response

The Sensor Response link displays a page for viewing (or exporting to a text file) the factory
stored nominal frequency response data for this model and version of the Trillium
Compact. Users can also import, view, and export a text file of user-created information,
such as seismometer response data created by calibrating the seismometer. The
maximum file size that can be imported is 2559 bytes.

7.6 Hardware Information

The Hardware Information link displays a page that lists detailed factory information, such
as the unit model, serial number, and subcomponent versions and serial numbers. This
information can be exported to a text file (.txt) for record keeping or for transmitting to
Nanometrics for technical support purposes.

7.7 Firmware
Firmware Version 2.x.x is not compatible with older version hardware. Do not attempt to
upgrade to Version 2.x.x if the serial number of your unit is 2499 or less.

To upgrade your firmware from Version 2.x.x, use the following procedure.

1. Copy the firmware file nmx_trillium_compact_land-2.x.x.nbf provided by Nanometrics

to a location on your PC.

2. From a browser on this PC, access the Trillium Compact web interface.

3. Click the Firmware link on the Home page.

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4. Verify the current firmware Version is shown as 2.x.x.

If the Version is 1.x.x, you cannot upgrade the firmware using this instruction. Please contact
Nanometrics.

5. Browse to the firmware file that you copied to your PC in step 1.

6. Click Upload to begin the firmware upgrade. Once the firmware upgrade is complete
a message indicates that the unit must be rebooted or power cycled for the new
firmware to become active.

7. Restart the unit using one of the following methods:

• Click the Back button and click Reboot on the previous page to reboot the
seismometer.
• Manually power-cycle the unit.

8. Confirm that the version has been updated by verifying the version at the bottom of
the Home page after rebooting.

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Part 3
Reference

 Specifications

 Transfer Function and Noise Floor

 Connector and Cables

 Physical Features and Dimensions

 Carrying Case

 Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit

 Free Software Information

 Glossary

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Chapter 8
Specifications

8.1 Technology
Table 8-1 Technology specifications
Topology Symmetric triaxial
Feedback Force balance with capacitive transducer
Mass Centring Not required

8.2 Performance
Table 8-2 Performance specifications
Self-noise
120 s models See Figure 9-2 “Self-noise for 120 s models” on page 47
20 s models See Figure 9-3 “Self-noise for 20 s models” on page 48
Sensitivity
120 s models 754.3 V ⋅ s ⁄ m nominal ± 0.5% precision
20 s models 753.1 V ⋅ s ⁄ m nominal ± 0.5% precision
Off-axis sensitivity ±0.5%
Bandwidth
120 s models –3 dB points at 120.2 s and 108 Hz
20 s models –3 dB points at 20.04 s and 108 Hz
Transfer function Lower corner poles within ±0.5% of nominal provided
High frequency response within 1 dB of nominal up to 45 Hz
No peak in response at high frequency
See Figure 9-1 “Bode plot for 120 s and 20 s models” on
page 44
Clip level 26 mm/s from 0.1 Hz to 10 Hz
Tilt
120 s models Dynamic and operational tilt range of ±2.5°
20 s models Dynamic and operational tilt range of ±10°
Parasitic resonances None below 200 Hz

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8.3 Hardware Interface

Table 8-3 Hardware interface specifications
Connector
14-pin connector 14-pin
Model numbers TC120-SV1,TC20-SV1 Shell size 12
(surface vault)
MIL-C-26482 Series I
Mounted in top of case
16-pin connector 16-pin
Model numbers TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2- Submersible
XC and TC20-PH2 (posthole)
SubConn MCBH16MSS
Mounted in top of case
Velocity output 40 Vpp differential
Selectable XYZ (east, north, vertical) or UVW mode
Mass position output Single voltage output representing maximum mass position
Three channel mass positions available through serial port
Calibration input Single voltage input and one active-high control signal to
enable all three channels
Remote calibration in XYZ or UVW mode
Independent channel selection by serial port

8.4 Digital Command and Control Interface

Table 8-4 Digital command and control Interface specifications
Digital interface RS-232 compatible serial-over-IP (SLIP)
Onboard web server standard HTTP
Commands XYZ/UVW mode switching
Calibration channel selection (off, enable all, U, V, or W)
Short period/long period mode switching
Firmware updates
State-of-health request
Upload user calibration data
Data outputs Independent mass position values
Instrument temperature
Factory sensitivity and sensor response data
User calibration data (poles and zeros)
Instrument serial number and firmware revision

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8.5 Power
Table 8-5 Power specifications
Supply voltage 9 V to 36 V DC isolated inputs
Power consumption See Section 4.6 “Power Consumption” on page 29 for typical
power consumption scenarios
Protection Reverse-voltage and over-voltage protected
Self-resetting over-current protection

8.6 Physical
Table 8-6 Physical specifications for models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1
Diameter 90 mm
Height 113 mm – body and connector
128 mm – with levelling feet fully retracted
135 mm – with levelling feet fully extended
Weight 1.2 kg
Housing Powder coated aluminum surface resistant to corrosion,
scratches, and chips
Levelling Integrated bubble level
Adjustable locking feet
Optional tripod deployment cradle for rapid levelling
Alignment Vertical scribe marks for north-south
Case-top north-south guide for straight-edge, line, or laser
level
Weather resistance Rated to IP67 for outdoor use, dust, and immersion resistance

Table 8-7 Physical specifications for models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2
Diameter 97 mm
Height 160 mm – body and connector
167 mm – on fixed studs
230 mm – on optional 70 mm spikes
Weight 3.3 kg
Housing Stainless steel surface resistant to corrosion, scratches, and
chips
Levelling Optional bubble level
Optional tripod deployment cradle for rapid levelling
Alignment Vertical scribe marks for north-south
Case-top north-south guide for straight-edge, line, or laser
level
Weather resistance Rated to IP68 for full submersion

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 Chapter 8  Specifications

8.7 Environmental
Table 8-8 Environmental specifications
Operating temperature –20°C to 60°C
Ultra-low temperature option available, model
TC120-PH2-XC. Please contact Nanometrics.
Storage temperature –40°C to 70°C
Shock 100 g half sine, 5 ms without damage, 6 axes
No mass lock required for transport
Magnetic Insensitive to natural variations of the earth’s magnetic field

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Chapter 9
Transfer Function and Noise Floor

9.1 Frequency Response for 120 s and 20 s Models

Figure 9-1 is a bode plot that shows the nominal frequency response for Trillium Compact,
120 s and 20 s models. This applies for ground motion and also for calibration response,
since in Trillium Compact the calibration circuit does not significantly change the
frequency response. As illustrated in Figure 9-1, the amplitude response to calibration input
signals is nearly identical to that for ground motion. The phase response is slightly different
at higher frequencies.

Figure 9-1 Bode plot for 120 s and 20 s models


Magnitude (dB)
















90


Phase (°)



90

  
 


  0  
    
Frequency (Hz)

Table 9-1 provides the ground motion response nominal parameters for 120 s models. Table
9-2 provides the ground motion response nominal parameters for 20 s models.

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 Chapter 9  Transfer Function and Noise Floor

The ground motion sensitivity at f 0 assumes an infinite input impedance at the digitizer. For
digitizers with low input impedance, it will become necessary to account for the fact that
source impedance of the differential outputs is 300 Ω, ±1 percent (150 Ω for each output).

Table 9-1 Ground motion response nominal parameters for 120 s models

Symbol Parameter Nominal Values Units

0
0
zn Zeros -392 rad/s
-1960
-1490 ±1740i
–0.03691 ±0.03702i
–343
-370 ±467i
rad/s
pn Poles -836 ±1522i
-4900 ±4700i
-6900
-15000

k Normalization factor 4.34493 x 1017 (rad/s)5

f0 Normalization frequency 1 Hz

S Ground motion sensitivity at f 0 754.3 V·s/m

Table 9-2 Ground motion response nominal parameters for 20 s models

Symbol Parameter Nominal Values Units

0
0
zn Zeros –392 rad/s
-1960
-1490 ±1740i
–0.2214 ±0.2221i
-343
-370 ±467i
rad/s
pn Poles -836 ±1522i
-4900 ±4700i
-6900
-15000

k Normalization factor 4.34491 x 1017 (rad/s)5

f0 Normalization frequency 1 Hz

S Ground motion sensitivity at f 0 753.1 V·s/m

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 Chapter 9  Transfer Function and Noise Floor

The seismometer sensitivity ( S ), poles ( p n ), and zeros ( z n ) define the transfer function
according to this equation:

∏ ( s – zn )
n
F ( s ) = S ⋅ k ⋅ ----------------------------
- (EQ 1)
∏
( s – pn )
n

Where the normalization factor ( k ) is defined by

∏ ( i2πf0 – pn )
n
k = ----------------------------------------
- (EQ 2)

∏ ( i2πf 0 – z n )
n

and is given for informational purposes only.

The calibration sensitivity is not trimmed with the same accuracy as the ground motion
sensitivity. The calibration input can be used to verify the frequency response but not the
absolute sensitivity. The calibration input sensitivity, combined calibration sensitivity, and
input resistance of the available models of Trillium Compact are listed in Table 9-3.

Table 9-3 Calibration circuit parameters for 120 s and 20 s models

Calibration input Combined calibration Calibration input

Model
sensitivity at 1 Hz sensitivity at 1 Hz resistance

120 s -0.011 m/(s2·V) ±7% -8.3 rad/s ±7% 120 kΩ

20 s -0.010 m/(s2·V) ±7% -7.5 rad/s ±7% 133 kΩ

The units of the combined calibration response are rad/s because the calibration input
produces an equivalent acceleration, while the sensor passband is flat to velocity.
Therefore for a sinusoidal calibration you must divide the sensitivity listed by 2 π f, where f is
the frequency of the sinusoid, to determine the expected gain at that frequency.

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 Chapter 9  Transfer Function and Noise Floor

9.2 Self-Noise for 120 s Models

Figure 9-2 plots typical self-noise for Trillium Compact seismometers. Three curves are
included for reference: Peterson’s new low-noise model (NLNM) and new high-noise
model (NHNM), and McNamara and Buland’s probability density function (PDF) mode low
noise model (MLNM).1 The noise floor shown is the typical level of instrument self-noise
assuming proper installation. To achieve best performance for any seismometer,
meticulous attention to detail must be paid to choice of site; vault design, if applicable;
and seismometer installation. See Section 1.3 “Selecting a Site” on page 4.

Figure 9-2 Self-noise for 120 s models

−100
NLNM
NHNM
−110 MLNM
Trillium Compact

−120

−130
PSD (dB wrt 1 m /s /Hz)
4

−140
2

−150

−160

−170

−180

−190
−3 −2 −1 0 1
10 10 10 10 10
Frequency (Hz)

1. See also:
Jon Peterson, Observations and Modeling of Seismic Background Noise, Open-File Report 93-922
(Albuquerque, New Mexico: U.S. Department of Interior Geological Survey, 1993).
Daniel E. McNamara and Raymond P. Buland, “Ambient Noise Levels in the Continental United States,”
Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America 94, 4 (August 2004): 1517–1527.
John F. Clinton and Thomas H. Heaton, “Potential Advantages of a Strong-motion Velocity Meter over a
Strong-motion Accelerometer,” Seismological Research Letters 73, 3 (May/June 2002): 332–342.

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9.3 Self-Noise for 20 s Models

Figure 9-3 plots typical self-noise for Trillium Compact seismometers. Three curves are
included for reference: Peterson’s new low-noise model (NLNM) and new high-noise
model (NHNM), and McNamara and Buland’s probability density function (PDF) mode low
noise model (MLNM). The noise floor shown is the typical level of instrument self-noise
assuming proper installation. To achieve best performance for any seismometer,
meticulous attention to detail must be paid to choice of site; vault design, if applicable;
and seismometer installation. See Section 1.3 “Selecting a Site” on page 4.

Figure 9-3 Self-noise for 20 s models

−120
NLNM
NHNM
MLNM
−130
Trillium Compact, 20s 10°

−140
/s 4 /Hz)
2
PSD (dB wrt 1 m

−150

−160

−170

−180
−2 −1 0 1 2
10 10 10 10 10
Frequency (Hz)

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Chapter 10
Connector and Cables

10.1 Pinout for 14-Pin Trillium Compact Connector

Trillium Compact model numbers TC120-SV1, TC20-SV1 (surface vault) are equipped with
a 14-pin male military circular type hermetic connector. Table 10-1 provides the connector
pinout.

Table 10-1 Pinout for 14-pin Trillium Compact connector

Pin Name Function Type

B X+/U+
X axis output (east)
C X-/U-
F Y+/V+
Y axis output (north) 40 Vpp differential
H Y-/V-
L Z+/W+
Z axis output (vertical)
M Z-/W-
See Table 9-3 “Calibration circuit
K CAL_SIG Calibration signal input parameters for 120 s and 20 s
models” on page 46
MAXIMUM Mass position of the axis with the
R -4 V to +4 V analog
MASS POSITION highest absolute mass position
 Calibration enable, Short  Digital: Active-high 12 V to 15 V
Period/Long Period mode* (low is equal to open or 0 V)
-OR-  Serial receive: +5 V/0 V to
+15 V/-15 V
D CTRL/RX  Serial RS-232 receive input

* See Section 4.3 “Digital Control Input

Signals” on page 28 and Section 7.3
“Seismometer Control” on page 36 for pin
configuration and functionality.

 Input: Enable UVW outputs  Digital: Active-high 5 V to 15 V

J UVW/TX instead of XYZ factory default (low is equal to open or 0 V)
 Output: Serial RS-232 transmit  Serial transmit: ±3.7 V
E AGND Analog ground N/A
P +PWR Power input
9 V to 36 V DC isolated
N -PWR Power return
A DGND Digital ground N/A
shell CHASSIS For shielding and safety N/A

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10.2 Pinout for 16-Pin Trillium Compact Connector

Trillium Compact model numbers TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2 (posthole
seismometers) are equipped with a 16-pin male neoprene molded waterproof connector.
Table 10-2 provides the connector pinout.

Table 10-2 Pinout for 16-pin Trillium Compact connector

Pin Name Function Type

5 X+/U+
X axis output (east)
6 X-/U-
7 Y+/V+
Y axis output (north) 40 Vpp differential
12 Y-/V-
9 Z+/W+
Z axis output (vertical)
10 Z-/W-
 See Table 9-3 “Calibration circuit
8 CAL_SIG Calibration signal input parameters for 120 s and 20 s
models” on page 46
MAXIMUM Mass position of the axis with the
14 -4 V to +4 V analog
MASS POSITION highest absolute mass position
 Calibration enable, Short  Digital: Active-high 12 V to 15 V
Period/Long Period mode* (low is equal to open or 0 V)
-OR-  Serial receive: +5 V/0 V to
+15 V/-15 V
3 CTRL/RX  Serial RS-232 receive input

* See Section 4.3 “Digital Control Input

Signals” on page 28 and Section 7.3
“Seismometer Control” on page 36 for pin
configuration and functionality.

 Input: Enable UVW outputs  Digital: Active-high 5 V to 15 V

4 UVW/TX instead of XYZ factory default (low is equal to open or 0 V)
 Output: Serial RS-232 transmit  Serial transmit: ±3.7 V
11 AGND Analog ground N/A
1 +PWR Power input
9 V to 36 V DC isolated
2 -PWR Power return
15 DGND Digital ground N/A
13 CHASSIS For shielding and safety N/A

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10.3 Cable Design Guidelines

If you are designing your own cable, use the following cable design guidelines:

 Include effective EMI shielding in the cable design.

Double-shielded twisted-pair cable is a good choice for EMI shielding as the twisted pairs
provide magnetic shielding, an inner shield grounded at the digitizer provides good electric
field shielding, and a continuous outer shield provides good high RF shielding.

 Use the DGND for the return currents of the control signals. These are CTRL/RX and
UVW/TX.

 Use the AGND for the return currents of the analog signals. These are CAL_SIG and
MAXIMUM MASS POSITION.

 Ensure that the cable capacitance does not exceed 10 nF. For Nanometrics cables,
this corresponds to 25 m.

 Ensure the cable length is sufficient to allow for strain relief.

 Ensure that the peak current requirement of the Trillium Compact does not result in a
voltage drop along the cable which takes the power supply voltage below the
minimum required at the Trillium Compact. See Table 8-5 “Power specifications” on
page 42.

 Ensure the cable is watertight.

 Check the cable electrically after assembly. In particular, ensure that the individual
and overall shields are not shorted together unless so specified.

 Make sure cables are labelled with correct drawing numbers and revisions.

 Make sure the digitizer is configured so that the default states of the control lines put
the Trillium Compact in the desired state.

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Chapter 11
Physical Features and Dimensions

11.1 Top Views

The figures in the following sections are illustrations that show the relative orientation of the
north-south alignment features on the various Trillium Compact models.

All dimensions are in millimetres unless otherwise stated.

11.1.1 Top View of Models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1

Figure 11-1 Top view of models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1

N
North-South Bubble Level
Guide

W E

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11.1.2 Top View of Models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2

Figure 11-2 Top view of models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2

North-South
Connector N Guide

w E

Eye Bolts S
96.4

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11.2 Bottom Views

The figures in the following sections are illustrations that show the features located on the
bottom of the various models of the Trillium Compact.

(1) All dimensions are in millimetres unless otherwise stated.

(2) The feet are removed from the seismometer in all bottom views.

11.2.1 Bottom View of Models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1

Figure 11-3 Bottom view of models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1

120°

90
74.0

120°

120°

3 X M6X1.0
THREADED HOLES
9mm DEEP

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11.2.2 Bottom View of Models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and

TC20-PH2
Figure 11-4 Bottom view of models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2

120°
82.3

120°

3X M6x1.0
Threaded holes for feet attachment.
9mm Deep

120°

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11.3 Side Views

The figures in the following sections are illustrations that show the alignment features and
dimensions of the various models of the Trillium Compact.

All dimensions are in millimetres unless otherwise stated.

11.3.1 Side View of Models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1

Figure 11-5 Side view of models TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1

12.7

128.5 Levelling Feet Fully Retracted

100.5
134.5 Levelling Feet Fully Extended

North-South
Alignment
Mark

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 Chapter 11  Physical Features and Dimensions

11.3.2 Side View of Models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2

Figure 11-6 Side view of models TC120-PH2, TC120-PH2-XC and TC20-PH2

41.9

118

North-South guide

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 Chapter 11  Physical Features and Dimensions

11.4 Side View of Optional 70 mm Spikes

Figure 11-7 Side view of optional 70 mm spikes (posthole models only)

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Appendix A
Carrying Case
The contents of this appendix are applicable to Trillium Compact, model numbers TC120-SV1,
TC20-SV1 (surface vault).

A.1 Transporting a Trillium Compact in the Carrying Case

The recommended method for transporting your Trillium Compact is in its specially
designed Carrying Case / Insulating Cover (Nanometrics part number 16862). This
enclosure functions as both a carrying case for transporting your Trillium Compact and as
an insulating cover at the installation site.

When used as a carrying case (see Figure A-1 “Cut-away illustration of a packed carrying
case” on page 59), this enclosure can house the seismometer, a 5 m ultra-flexible cable
(Nanometrics part numbers 16777-5M or 16865-5M) or a foam plug (Nanometrics part
number MEC16852R1), and a levelling cradle (Nanometrics part number 16863). The case
provides cushioning protection and makes transport of the Trillium Compact and its
accessories easy with its compact design and handle.

Figure A-1 Cut-away illustration of a packed carrying case

The seismometer in Figure A-1 illustrates model numbers TC120-SV1 and TC20-SV1.

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 Appendix A  Carrying Case

To properly pack your carrying case:

1. Lower the Trillium Compact feet first into the case.

2. Tightly coil the cable (the case will fit up to a 5 m cable) and lower it into the case so
that it is resting on top of the Trillium Compact.
-OR-
If you are not packing a cable in the case, insert the foam plug or other cushioning
material that will prevent movement of the Trillium Compact and levelling cradle
during transport.

3. Firmly fit the feet of the levelling cradle into the corresponding slits in the foam of the
lid.

4. Place the lid on the case and secure it with the latches.

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Appendix B
Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit
Although images in this chapter show the surface vault Trillium Compact, the contents of this
chapter are applicable to all models of the Trillium Compact featured in this user guide.

B.1 Using the Levelling Cradle

The optional Trillium Compact levelling cradle (Nanometrics part number 16863) allows you
to accurately level your seismometer in seconds on installation surfaces that are as much
as ±9º outside of level. The two-sided cradle provides bowls of two depths. The shallow bowl
corrects an uneven surface by up to ±5º and the deep bowl corrects by up to ±9º.

The Trillium Compact rests on three slanted supports that create a bowl shape. Using the
levelling bubble on the top of the case, simply adjust the seismometer on the supports until
the bubble is in the centre of the black ring. When using the cradle on its own (without the
spike kit described in Section B.2 on page 62) use the shallow bowl of the cradle to hold
the Trillium Compact. The supports on the deep side of the cradle are designed to act as
feet when the spike kit is not in use.

Figure B-1 Levelling cradle features and dimensions

(1) All dimensions in Figure B-1 are in millimetres unless otherwise stated.
(2) Remove the three feet from the seismometer before placing it in the levelling cradle.
Retain the feet for future installations.

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 Appendix B  Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit

B.2 Using the Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit

The shallow side of the cradle (see Figure B-1) provides threaded holes for connecting the
spikes included with the optional levelling cradle spike kit (Nanometrics part number
16874). The combined levelling cradle and spike kit allows you to achieve a secure, stable,
and level installation on unprepared surfaces such as sediment, soil, sand, or gravel.

The levelling cradle spike kit includes three types of spikes, each of which is meant for a
different type of installation surface:
a) Thick spikes: Three spikes for use in sand; dry, loose soil; or snow.
b) Thin spikes: Three spikes for use in dense, wet soil or clay.
c) Long spike: One spike for use in rocky or frozen soil or ice. If more support is required,
you can use the three thin spikes with the long spike.

Figure B-2 shows four views of a Trillium Compact mounted on a levelling cradle with the
various spike configurations.

Figure B-2 Levelling cradle and spike kit assembly configurations

To use the spike kit:

1. Select the appropriate spikes or spike for the installation surface and thread these
tightly into the appropriate threaded holes on the shallow side of the levelling cradle:
• For sand; dry, loose soil; or snow, thread the three thick spikes into the threaded
holes in the feet of the cradle.
• For dense wet soil or clay, thread the three thin spikes into the threaded holes in the
feet of the cradle.
• For rocky or frozen soil or ice, thread the single long spike into the threaded hole in
the centre of the cradle. If more support is needed, also thread the three thin spikes
into the feet of the cradle.

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 Appendix B  Levelling Cradle and Spike Kit

2. Push the spikes into the earth, firmly securing the assembly and making it as level as
possible.

3. Place the Trillium Compact on the cradle, aligning it to your alignment line (see
Section 3.5 “Best Practices for Alignment and Levelling” on page 18).

4. Level the Trillium Compact by adjusting it on the cradle until the levelling bubble is
centred in the black ring.

5. Test the stability of the cradle by gently pressing down on a corner of the levelling
cradle. It should remain stable and the levelling bubble should not move.

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Appendix C
Free Software Information

Trillium Compact software is distributed with free software that is protected by other
licenses. A list of this free software and their respective licensing information is available on
the Nanometrics Web site: http://www.nanometrics.ca/products/licences

C.1 BSD Licence Information

In accordance with the terms of the BSD licence, the following information has to be
included in the documentation that accompanies any product containing software that
is protected by a BSD licence:

Copyright (c) 2001-2006, Adam Dunkels and the Swedish Institute of Computer Science

All rights reserved.

Redistribution and use in source and binary forms, with or without modification, are
permitted provided that the following conditions are met:

1. Redistributions of source code must retain the above copyright notice immediately at
the beginning of the file, without modification, this list of conditions, and the following
disclaimer.

2. Redistributions in binary form must reproduce the above copyright notice, this list of
conditions and the following disclaimer in the documentation and/or other materials
provided with the distribution.

3. The name of the author may not be used to endorse or promote products derived from
this software without specific prior written permission.

THIS SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED BY THE AUTHOR AND CONTRIBUTORS ``AS IS'' AND ANY EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO EVENT
SHALL THE AUTHOR OR CONTRIBUTORS BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL,
SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION) HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER IN
CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE) ARISING IN
ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
DAMAGE.

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Appendix D
Glossary

D.1 Glossary of Abbreviations and Terms

A
AGND
Analog Ground

AWG
American Wire Gauge

C
CHGND
Chassis Ground

D
DGND
Digital Ground

E
EMI
Electromagnetic Interference

G
GPS
Global Positioning System

M
MLNM
Mode Low Noise Model

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 Appendix D  Glossary

N
NHNM
New High-Noise Model

NLNM
New Low-Noise Model

P
PDF
Probability Density Function

PWR
Power

R
RF
Radio Frequency

RMA
Return Merchandise Authorization

S
SLIP
Serial-Over-IP

T
TCP/IP
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol

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 Appendix D  Glossary

D.2 List of Unit Abbreviations and Symbols

Table D-1 provides a list of unit abbreviations and symbols commonly used in Nanometrics
documentation.

Table D-1 Unit Abbreviations and Symbols

Abbreviation Abbreviation
Definition Definition
or Symbol or Symbol

° degree lb pound

Ø diameter m metre

µ micro m/s metre per second

Ω ohm m/s2 metre per second, squared

A ampere mA milliampere

AC alternating current MB megabyte

b bit MΩ megaohm

B byte MHz megahertz

bps bits per second mi. mile

C Celsius mL millilitre

cm centimetre mm millimetre

dB decibel ms millisecond

DC direct current MTU maximum transmission unit

F farad mV millivolt

ft. foot mW milliwatt

g gram N Newton

g gravity nF nanofarad

GB gigabyte ns nanosecond

GHz gigahertz rad radian

Hz hertz rad/s radian per second

in. inch s second

KB kilobyte sps samples per second

kg kilogram U rack unit

kHz kilohertz V volt

kΩ kiloohm Vpp Volts peak-to-peak

kW kilowatt W watt

L litre

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 About Nanometrics
Nanometrics is an award winning company providing monitoring solutions and equipment
for studying man-made and natural seismicity. Headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario, with
offices and representatives world-wide, Nanometrics has over 30 years’ experience,
delivering solutions to customers across the globe. Nanometrics real-time and portable
systems are utilized by the world’s leading scientific institutions, universities and major
corporations. Our pedigree is founded on precision instrumentation, network technology
and software applications for seismological and environmental research. We specialize in
collecting and analyzing critical real time data for global, regional and local seismic
networks. We deliver world-class network design, installation and training services
throughout the globe in a safety conscious environment.

Contacting Nanometrics
Nanometrics Inc.
250 Herzberg Road
Kanata, Ontario, Canada K2K 2A1
Phone: +1 613-592-6776
Fax: +1 613-592-5929
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.nanometrics.ca

Contacting Technical Support

If you need technical support please submit a request on the Nanometrics technical
support site or by email or fax. Include a full explanation of the problem and related
information such as log files.
Support site: http://support.nanometrics.ca
Email: [email protected]

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