Terms of Use
Document History
This documentation receives frequent updates, which are described here.
Introduction
Song Meter® with Analysis and Remote Transfer, or SMART™, is a multi-channel, ultrasonic audio recording and analysis platform from Wildlife Acoustics®.
Getting Started
The first time you use a SMART System, we recommend setting it up in an accessible location, such as an office. This will make it easier to configure the SMART and perform any necessary troubleshooting.
Microphone Settings and Schedules
Each microphone connected to a SMART Controller can have its own Setting Profile and Schedule Profile. These profiles determine when the microphone is active; the settings it uses to detect, record, and analyze bat echolocations; and set the scheduling of microphone sensitivity testing and moisture clearing.
SMART Controller Configuration
Before you deploy the SMART System, you should configure basic system and network settings. These include login credentials, date, location, and network configuration settings.
- Default System and Network Settings
  These default settings are required information when configuring the SMART System for the first time. You should change all passwords before you deploy the SMART System.
- Configure Basic System Settings
  Before you deploy the SMART System, you should configure basic system settings, including time, location, and credentials.
- Network Configuration
  Depending on your goals and network security requirements, you might choose to network your SMART System in several different ways. This can range from a completely disconnected system to Internet-connected and globally configurable.
  - Standalone Configuration
    In scenarios where connecting the SMART to a local network is not possible for reasons of security or infrastructure, the SMART can run independently.
  - Local Network Configuration
    Connecting the SMART to a local network can allow you to configure the SMART remotely, with or without connecting the SMART to the global Internet.
  - SMART IoT Gateway
    The SMART IoT Gateway is an optional feature that allows authorized users to securely connect to their SMART Systems via the Internet and configure them using the SMART Control Panel.
  - Install Custom SSL Certificates
    Installing custom SSL certificates on your SMART Controller ensures a secure connection and prevents any web browser security warnings when you access the SMART Control Panel.
  - Restore the Default Network Configuration
    By default, the SMART Controller is configured to host a local Wi-Fi network. You can restore this configuration via the SMART's terminal.
  - Edit the Netplan Configuration via the SMART Control Panel
    To make changes to the SMART Controller's network configuration beyond the basic options, you can edit the configuration using Netplan YAML syntax directly from the SMART Control Panel.
  - Edit DHCP Server Settings
    If you want the SMART Controller to act as a DHCP server, you can configure the relevant settings from the SMART Control Panel, either by adjusting settings in the web-based GUI or by directly editing the dhcpd.conf file.
- Update the SMART System Software, Microphone Firmware, and Operating System
  The SMART System software and microphone firmware can be updated remotely using the SMART Control Panel. Operating system updates are required less frequently and are best done with physical access to the SMART Controller.
- Configure Email Alerts
  A SMART System that is connected to the IoT Gateway can be configured to send immediate email alerts in response to several different conditions.
Data Management
The SMART System stores recordings and logs on its internal drive initially, and it can periodically transfer new data to a USB or networked storage drive.
Installing SMART
Installing the SMART System on a wind turbine, meteorological tower, or similar structure requires careful planning. Proper connectivity, grounding, and microphone placement will help ensure a successful deployment.
Bat Activity Alarms and Control System Integration
The SMART System can integrate with a windfarm SCADA network or similar control system to perform acoustically triggered curtailment (ATC). You can define custom alarms that detect bat activity based on custom-defined parameters. When these alarms trigger, you can send control signals to other devices on a control system to trigger turbine shutdowns.
Troubleshooting
Specifications
SMART Enclosure
The SMART Enclosure is a preconfigured, weatherproof enclosure that can be purchased with the SMART System.
SMART API and Command Reference
The SMART System software includes utilities, command-line scripts, and APIs that can be used for additional customized programming of the SMART System.
Glossary
Warranty
Except as specifically provided herein, Wildlife Acoustics makes no warranty of any kind, express or implied, with respect to this product.
Declaration of Conformity
Prohibition Against Eavesdropping
Patents
Copyright Notices
Contact Information

Network Configuration

Depending on your goals and network security requirements, you might choose to network your SMART System in several different ways. This can range from a completely disconnected system to Internet-connected and globally configurable.

No Network Connectivity

In deployments without available networking infrastructure or with strict security requirements, the SMART can be disconnected from all existing public or private networks. In this configuration, you might only access the SMART System using a direct keyboard and monitor connection, or you might network a laptop directly to the SMART via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

A SMART Controller is connected directly to a User PC by Wi-Fi. — Figure 1. SMART Controller as Wi-Fi Access Point

Private Network Connectivity

A SMART System can be connected to a private network (also known as a local network) without a connection to the public Internet. In this configuration, users with access to the private network can be allowed to access the SMART remotely to retrieve data or configure its settings. A private network connection also allows the SMART to back up its data to a storage location on the same network.

A SMART Controller and a User PC are both connected to a Local Network. Each may be connected by Wi-Fi or Ethernet. — Figure 2. SMART Controller as Client of Local Network

Internet Connectivity

A SMART System can be connected to the SMART IoT Gateway, hosted on a Wildlife Acoustics server, via an existing local network or via a direct Internet connection, such as a cellular modem. You can then configure a connected SMART for use with the SMART Portal. The SMART Portal is a secure system that allows authorized users to manage multiple SMART Systems from any web browser via their Wildlife Acoustics account.

The SMART Controller is connected to the SMART IoT Gateway, which is hosted in the cloud. A user PC accesses the SMART Portal, which is part of the SMART IoT Gateway. — Figure 3. SMART Controller Connected to the SMART IoT Gateway and SMART Portal