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SDI-12 Telemetry Node Quick Installation Guide

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Verdi’s SDI-12 Node makes sensor integration fast and flexible, whether you're using a kit from us or wiring your own sensors. Follow these steps to get up and running in minutes.

1) Connect Your Sensor

Option A: Using a Verdi Sensor Kit (Pre-Wired)

If you purchased the Verdi SDI-12 Node and sensor as a kit, installation is plug-and-play:

  1. Simply align the 3-pin connectors from the sensor and node.

  2. Plug them together and twist the threaded collar to lock.

  3. This creates a secure, waterproof connection—no tools or wiring required.

You're done with this step. Skip ahead to Step 3: Power On the Node.

Option B: Manual Wiring

If you're wiring a sensor yourself, follow these steps carefully:

  1. Cut off any pre-attached connectors on the sensor cable. Strip back the outer black jacket to expose the three inner wires. (If the three colored wires are already visible, skip this step.)

  2. Open the enclosure by unscrewing the six Phillips screws with a screwdriver. Each screw has a small plastic washer underneath—if any come loose, push them back into place. Set the screws aside.

  3. Feed the cable through the wire gland so that some of the black jacket is visible inside the gland. This helps it grip tightly and create a proper seal.

  4. Trim and re-strip the inner wires if needed.

  5. Locate which three terminals you need to insert wires into. Wire color-to-terminal mapping depends on your sensor type.

Wiring Diagram Lookup: Use this guide to find the correct terminal numbers for your probe type.

  1. Twist the strands of each wire to prevent fraying. Use tweezers (optional) to guide each wire into the correct terminal.

  2. Once the wires are inside the terminal, secure each using a small flathead screwdriver. Give each wire a gentle tug to confirm it's secured tightly.

2) Seal the Enclosure

  • Carefully close the lid, making sure the power button and LED are on the left side when the antenna is pointing upright. Screw down all 6 Phillips screws.

  • Tighten the wire gland by hand to ensure a weatherproof seal.

3) Power On the Node

  • Remove the yellow cap on the top of the node, and screw the antenna on.

  • Hold the power button for approximately 5 seconds until the LED blinks green.

    Do not power on without the antenna connected as doing so may cause permanent damage to the internal radio.

  • After startup, the node will attempt to connect to the gateway:

    • Blue blink: confirmed and operating

    • Green blink: communicating

  • To turn off the node, tap the power button 5 times quickly. A solid red LED will show for 5 seconds to indicate shutdown.

4) Add It to the Verdi Dashboard

Sensor must be connected

Sensor must be wired to the SDI-12 Telemetry Node before adding the SDI-12 Telemetry Node to the Verdi Dashboard.

Once your sensor is wired and the node is powered on, it’s time to register your device.

  1. Open app.verdi.ag in a web browser on your phone or tablet. Login.

  2. Tap Add Device, then scan the QR code on the side of the node or the box it came in.

  3. Make sure your browser has camera and location access enabled so you can scan and place the node on the map.

  4. Select the device type: SDI-12 Node (Dragino)

  5. Place the node on your farm map by clicking the correct location.

  6. (Optional) Assign it a name or connect it to a zone or sensor now, or do it later.

Need more help? Find full instructions for adding a device here.

5) Mounting the Node

Use the included zip ties or screws to mount the SDI-12 Node on a post, pole, or wall. Make sure it’s elevated off the ground and positioned where it won’t be submerged or damaged.

If installed under a thick canopy or cover, elevating the node so the antenna is above the coverage will improve its range and efficiency.

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