DB 450 Data Buoy

The YSI DB 450 data buoy is a compact, self-powered environmental monitoring platform designed for reliable performance in freshwater and marine deployments.

• Overview

  Versatile performance
  Designed for quick deployment from small vessels, the DB‑450 provides ample power and charging to keep instruments running through intensive monitoring campaigns.

  Rugged, field-ready design
  A durable polymer‑coated hull and stainless steel frame deliver long‑lasting performance in harsh environments while providing a stable mounting platform for lights, sensors, cameras, and other topside instruments.

  Watertight data well
  The 10-inch-diameter, 19.5-inch-tall data well offers a fully sealed, spacious enclosure that protects batteries, loggers, and communications hardware from moisture and harsh weather.

  Easy Sensor Integration
  plug‑and‑play connections make it simple to deploy underwater instruments and integrate new sensors.

  Pass-Through Ports
  Three 4-inch pass-through ports allow easy deployment of underwater sensors while securely routing cables. Each port features 8inch NPT bottom threads for attaching instrument pipes and custom mounts.

  Flexible Data Logging Options
  Integrate a HydroRIG intelligent gateway for easy system setup or connect a third‑party data logger for custom system configurations.

  Reliable Wireless Communications
  Cellular telemetry for real‑time data access from anywhere in the world.

  Solar Beacon
  Add a solar marine light for enhanced safety and visibility in active waterways.

  The DB-450 is a floating monitoring platform for use with

  • EXO Multiparameter Sondes
  • ADCPs
  • Weather stations
  • Thermistor strings

  *The actual number of sensors depends on power constraints

  Use data buoys in a variety of environments

  • Surface water: rivers, lakes, reservoirs
  • Ocean, coastal, estuaries
  • Source & drinking water

  Other data buoy options

  • CB-75 data buoy
  • CB-950 data buoy

• Specifications

  DB-450 Specifications
  Hull outer diameter	86.4 cm (34.0 in)
  Hull height	50.8 cm (20.0 in)
  Data well inner diameter	26.2 cm (10.3 in)
  Data well height	49.5 cm (19.5 in)
  Pass-through hole diameter	10.2 cm (4.0 in)
  Tower height	50.80 cm (20.0 in)
  Solar panels	15-Watts x3 (45 Watts of charging power)
  Power	28 Ahr AGM
  Weight	56 kg (124 lbs)
  Gross buoyancy	223 kg (492 lbs)
  Net buoyancy	167 kg (368 lbs)
  Hull material	Cross-linked polyethylene foam with polyurea coating & stainless steel deck
  Hardware material	316 stainless steel
  Mooring attachments	⅜ in. eyenuts x3

• FAQs
  1. Are the buoys safe for coastal deployment?
     While we generally recommend the DB-950 and larger data buoys in coastal environments, we do have many customers who have successfully deployed the DB-450 in coastal environments.
     
     
  2. Can this model be deployed for long periods of time?
     Yes, the DB-450 is designed for seasonal or year-round deployment. The system offers autonomous power with integrated battery harness and solar charging.
     
     
  3. While deployed, can the buoy be wirelessly troubleshooted?
     When integrated with wireless communication, the system can be accessed remotely for configuration and/or troubleshooting.
     
     
  4. How can I ensure buoy stability?
     Buoy stability is dependent on a number of factors including instruments attached, mooring design, water currents, and regional weather conditions. It is recommended to examine the buoy upon deployment, add ballast weight, and adjust the mooring as needed. Given that each deployment is unique, be sure to communicate with YSI application engineers for optimal stability. An optional counterweight is available.
     
     
  5. Under what conditions would I need to remove the DB-450 data buoy?
     Freezing and periodic maintenance are the two most common reasons to remove a buoy from the water. Many buoy deployments are seasonal, so customers commonly remove the buoy in the fall and redeploy it in the spring. For year-round buoy deployments, YSI recommends pulling the buoy at least once for cleaning and maintenance inspection. The potential for large storms and river debris flows is also a good reason to pull a buoy in order to prevent any ensuing damage. YSI recommends integrating a GPS in situations where debris loads or other factors could move the buoy, such as in a river or coastal setting.
     
     
  6. Can the solar panels be individually replaced in the field?
     The solar panels feature a waterproof 2-pin connector that plugs into a 3-way splitter on the solar tower. In the event of a failure, the solar panel can be swapped out in the field.
     
     
  7. How often should the batteries be replaced?
     Batteries should be replaced every 3-5 years, if the charge ever falls below 10.5V, or as needed due to performance.
     
     
  8. Is it safe to lift the buoy from a single eye nut?
     Yes, a single topside eye nut can support the weight of a buoy without load attached. Care should always be taken to avoid damaging the solar panels, top-side sensor mounts and sensors connected to the instrument cage when lifting and moving a buoy.
     
     
  9. What are the data buoy storage requirements?
     Data loggers and all accessories (beacons, sensors, etc.) should be powered off, sensor connection ports should be covered, and the buoy should be placed in a dry environment kept above freezing at a minimum. Buoy batteries should be periodically charged during long-term storage.
     
     
  10. What are common tools required for buoy deployment and maintenance?
      During a buoy deployment or maintenance, the required tools will vary depending on the buoy accessories purchased with the order, including beacons, sensors, and sensor mounts. Any technician responsible for a buoy deployment or maintenance should bring the following tools to the field.
      
      
  11. How do I safely remove a battery well lid?
      Pressure build-up in DB-Series buoy data wells can be caused by temperature and barometric pressures changes, or, in some cases, battery off-gassing. YSI recommends the following safety precautions when opening battery well lids on DB-Series buoys.
      
      
  12. What are the battery capacities in DB-Series Data Buoys?
      YSI DB-Series data buoys will have varying battery capacities depending on buoy size and the integrated battery harness. Multiple batteries can be wired in parallel to maintain the 12VDC nominal voltage while adding more amp-hour capacity for systems with higher overall current draw.
      
      
  13. What are the YSI solar panel specifications?
      YSI offers multiple solar power options for land- and buoy-based environmental monitoring systems. Learn more about the single-panel manufacturer specifications to accommodate your system.