Deployment season is ongoing, and preparing in advance for spares (with adequate lead time) ensures success in the field. Consider these items ahead of time:
- Plan whether additional sample bottles or bags are needed if deploying a water sampler. A full set of bags or bottles is included with a new sampler. However, if your pre-deployment bench testing uses sample bottles or bags, or you are performing a mooring turnaround, more of these will be needed.
- Check the instrument’s toolkit. A new instrument includes a toolkit of spare parts. If items are exhausted, contact McLane to restock.
- Ensure that you have enough fresh batteries for your project. With a few exceptions, our instruments have custom battery packs or drop-in battery packs. Drop-in battery packs hold alkaline batteries that can be purchased in your location. Battery packs must be ordered from McLane. If these are not in stock, there can be a lead time of several weeks.
- Add a post-deployment and repair budget to long term project plans if possible for ongoing instrument operations. While our instruments are robust, regular care and maintenance extends the life of the instrument.
- Attend hand-on training for your instrument. Training at McLane facilities is included with the price of the instrument. Also, take a moment to refresh your knowledge by reviewing the materials found in the McLane Library. If you have an older instrument and wish to re-train, contact McLane.
Any questions? Contact us and we will be happy to talk you through your pre-deployment planning needs.
