The AR125 From Binary Acoustic Technology - First Impressions

Here are some first impressions of the AR125 Ultrasonic Receiver from Binary Acoustic Technology

First, I'd like to take this opportunity to lash-out at our local UPS drivers, who have picked up a new habit in this City as of late: They like to ring your doorbell like maniacs, leave the package near your door, and take off in their trucks. Shame on you!

In any case the unit arrived very well packaged and in good condition. The instrument itself, was double boxed – which is the proper way to send electronic equipment in the first place. When Amateur Radio hobbyists send vintage radios to each other, this is always the method of packing used. So, this should always be done with instruments that might be considered delicate. OK, end of rant.

Now, you may, or may not have noticed...That Binary Acoustic Technology may also be abbreviated as BAT. I mention this, because many times (in research and detector comparison papers) The AR125 is referred to as the BATx (x being anything from 2, to 125, to ?).
For instance, in certain comparison charts out there - You may see The AR125 referred to as the "BAT2", "BAT-AR", or sometimes even just "BAT" this can be confusing (as you might imagine). Since, until now the only bat recorder that the majority of Folks know of (with a "BAT" in it's name) was the SM2BAT, from Wildlife Acoustics.

The AR125 arrived in a fairly well sized brown cardboard box. Upon opening the box: The inner box, was protected with a nice amount of pink popcorn/Styrofoam "peanuts" (as they are sometimes referred to). The purpose of these, is to provide protection to the second box inside. The second white cardboard box was lined with ample cone-shaped foam. This offered very good protection to the AR125 Receiver inside. 

When you order a standard AR125 Receiver from Binary Acoustic Technology, you get:
The Ultrasonic Receiver, a Software CD ROM (containing all the drivers/software you need), as well as SPECT'R (Spectral analysis, digital Tuning, and Recording) software
a black USB cable for connecting the unit to your PC 


As well as two (slightly different) copies of SPECT'R (Spectral analysis, digital Tuning, and Recording software). AKA SPECT'R III SCAN'R (Snapshot Characterization and Analysis software) is also included.
A basic (printed - Not photocopied) Hardware Manual is also included (not pictured here).

In the pic below, you can see: The AR125, in it's plastic bag (complete with Silica gel absorbent cylinder), the black (good quality) USB cable, and software CD (containing AR125 drivers, etc.).

As you can see, on the CD ROM itself, it's entitled 'BAT Software Suite'. The AR125 Receiver drivers for various types of personal computers are provided. For best results, ensure that you install the correct (specific) driver. Installation is very easy - I went from un-boxing to recording bats in about 10 minutes.
Early testing looks very promising!  

 All I have (right now) is one "little peep" (call) from what Kaleidoscope says is an Evening Bat (Nycticeius humeralis) -But- This was recorded using the AR125 and displayed (here) on the SCAN'R software. I like it! We've had nothing but thunderstorms here (Northeastern US) for days...

To be continued...

Happy bat detecting!

The Batlogger M Revisited

If you want to take the complexity, or hassle and extra steps out of analyzing your bat recordings: Then your best bet is to go for the Batlogger M from Elekon. 
Although it is expensive, and we all know that many bat workers are on a low budget – In the long run I believe it would be well worth it. A lot of the work has been simplified when using the Batlogger M and the accompanying BatExplorer software. 
Just using the BatExplorer software gives you an excellent headstart when IDing bat species. Several Bat Workers that I've communicated with have voiced their displeasure with the performance of BatExplorer software as a Call identification tool – citing its inaccuracy. But, it's still being improved by Elekon, even as you read this...

I happen to really like the fact, that the that Batlogger M can now tune down to 2 kHz – which will allow me to record Insects as well! (Thanks to a recent firmware update).

I think the process of using BatExplorer is generally much smoother, when compared to other software. The entire Process of going through/processing your collected recordings becomes a lot more convenient. If you choose to use the BatExplorer software which is supplied freely: You may save enough discretionary funds to purchase an additional software application, which may be more to your liking. 

Also, a very interesting discovery made by Jon Whitehurst - May be seen Here

Happy bat detecting!

Thoughts On The D500X From Pettersson Elektronik

The D500X From Pettersson Elektronik

After completing extensive research on the D500X From Pettersson Elektronik, I'd like to share some of my findings (and opinions).

Many, if not most of those involved in any kind of bat research, are usually in need of a good passive monitoring system for bats. A unit that may be deployed in any number of locations - Including right in the middle of woodland areas. A device which may be deployed deep in a forest, if needed. Without having to worry about: wind, rain, and other variables having a negative effect on the equipment. 

In my opinion, if someone is going to put forth the time and effort to begin a project; they will probably want to use the very best equipment they can. Most passive monitoring projects are inherently major undertakings. I've recently become very familiar with the in's & out's of passive monitoring for bats. Especially, in the varied field of Bat Research. After reading the protocol, execution, and results of major bat monitoring projects: It's clear that the D500X is a top contender. 
In fact, it may very well be, the best passive monitoring solution available. It has been used in many studies.
If you spend some time finding, and then searching through scientific/research-type documents: You can find many projects, studies, and theses where the D500X was used.
Even studies which, in addition, went as far as including comparisons of the equipment used - For example, many of these individuals or teams were utilizing the D500X along with other detectors (in the same price ranges).
If you cannot afford the D500X, then the absolute next best possible choice, is the SM2BAT+, from Wildlife Acoustics.

I'll also take this opportunity to again convey which bat detectors I'll be reviewing the (new & improved) D500X from Pettersson. I'm also very excited to be reviewing the (new & improved) Batscanner, from Elekon; as well as their new (weatherproof) microphone (for the Batlogger M). 

Happy bat detecting!

Just A Few Miscellaneous Links

Just a few Links And Resources I've Recently Learned Of:

For goodness sake, just have a look at this wonderful resource – on British Bats: Link 

When you go to the page, just click on the bat species of interest - And a plethora of excellent information will pop-up.

Be sure to check out Wildwood Ecology on this link - Wildwood Ecology, Ltd. They offer a myriad of Services, including: 
Bat Training Courses, The Bat License Training Course (BLTC), a Bat Handling Course, Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and a few others as well.

The courses seem very inviting - I would even attend one or two myself, if there wasn't such a large pond in the way!

Also, from Wildwood Ecology, is BatNav. If you are interested in using a GPS with your AnaBat detector - Be sure to check out The BatNav Site Here. 

They have wonderful hardware and software available, 
for getting the most out of your GPS-enabled AnaBat!

The GPS unit, may also be purchased at NHBS via this Link

Another interesting scientific document Here. Covers counting bats while away from roosts.

Yet another very well done paper - Here

I recently finished reading a couple of interesting articles, and I wanted to share!

None of these are new, one is as old as 2009! But, they were fun to read.

'Important criteria for choosing a good TE detector'

'Facts about automatic recording and identification systems: the future'

'Beware of reflections from your detector'

Out On Top! Batlogger M And The Avisoft USG116 Series

Back by popular demand! 

I simply adore this article, because a group of experienced Researchers came to the same conclusions as I have: In a nutshell, the Batlogger M from Elekon and the USG116 Series from Avisoft out-perform several other detectors. Outstanding!
I've taken the liberty of pasting a portion of the (beginning) of the paper below:
And, below that - Please see the link, which will allow you to download the entire PDF.

'Do you hear what I hear? Implications of detector selection for acoustic monitoring of bats'

Amanda M. Adams, Meredith K. Jantzen, and Rachel M. Hamilton. The University of Western Ontario, London, ON
How do you begin to choose which bat detector is best suited for your needs? While budget is a major factor for many, there are numerous other features that contribute to a final decision (e.g. battery life, storage capacity, weatherproofing, etc.). The purpose of this study was to compare ultrasonic call detection in five different bat detectors: AnaBat SD2 (Titley Scientific), Avisoft UltraSoundGate 116Hme CM16/CMPA (Avisoft Bioacoustics), Batcorder 2.0 (ecoObs), Batlogger (Elekon AG), and Songmeter SM2 BAT (Wildlife Acoustics). We used playback of synthetic calls to optimize detection settings for each detector. We played synthetic constant-frequency calls at four frequencies (25, 55, 85, 115 kHz) at five meter intervals (5-40 m) and three angles (0°, 45°, 90°) from the detectors. Detection was most affected by call frequency and distance, while the effect of angle was less apparent. Avisoft and Batlogger outperformed other detectors, while Batcorder and Songmeter performed similarly. Batlogger performed better than the other detectors at angles off-center (45° and 90°). AnaBat detected the fewest calls, none at the higher frequencies (85kHz and 115kHz). We also compared recordings made in the presence of free-flying bats, comparing the number of calls detected by each detector in 27 passes. On average, Batlogger recorded 93% relative to Avisoft, while AnaBat, Batcorder, and Songmeter recorded 40- 50% of the calls. These results suggest that detector performance differs among brands. This factor should be taken into account both when making purchasing decisions, as well as considering bat activity levels reported in studies using different detectors. 

Direct link to PDF File

--- Also ---

Another great article, this one resides on the Bat Call ID Site (makers of BCID software): It covers sampling technology: Link

Happy Bat Detecting!

Review: The UltraSoundGate 116Hnm From Avisoft Bioacoustics Part 2 Of 2

Review of the UltraSoundGate 116Hnm from Avisoft Bioacoustics Part 2 Of 2   

One of the things I'd like to try to get across (again), is just how small this unit is. I find it amazing: Such a small device, capable of such amazing data collection. As pointed out, on the manufacturer's site - The unit does feature great craftsmanship and quality materials.

A keen observer might have noticed that Avisoft products are not always mentioned, in the "mainstream" discussions of bat detectors. They are sometimes also missing from many (if not all) bat detector comparison charts. Maybe it's because they are so inherently different than many of their counterparts. Perhaps the reason is that these products are something more, than the typical handheld (top-of-the-range) bat detector. And still, there may be other reasons...

When you purchase this instrument and it's accompanying software, it's as if you're getting a small Bio-acoustic Lab; in a complete kit. As such, a certain level of complexity is to be expected. At the same time, I'm sure that many discerning users would welcome it. In the screenshots below, I've illustrated two of the main dialog screens which a user would be adjusting. Note: These would be fairly typical, of a user interested in recording the echolocation of bats...We should remember, that other wildlife sound recordings may be made with Avisoft devices and software. A user could easily configure several individual .ini files (one for each specific recording purpose) and then choose to load them at at start-up.

Main Configuration Dialog Box

Bat Call Trigger Configuration Dialog Box

Now, if someone were to want try their hand at recording some ultrasonic calls of singing insects, as I did on this particular evening: They might make a few of the same configuration choices as shown below (notice Freq. Range is 5 to 30kHz).
Note: These windows would each be opened and configured separately (one-at-a-time). 
I have deliberately opened both, and made one screenshot:

These are just a few simple examples of the many possibilities and combinations available, when it comes to software configuration.

When ordering the USG116Hnm, you have a couple of models to choose from:
One is provided with a built-in 'EP3' electret microphone (part#31180). The other with a Knowles FG (part #31179) microphone.

Again, I would urge those who are interested, to visit the USG 116Hnm page, and go over the specifications of the devices right on the Avisoft Site.

There have been a few occasions, when other (high-end) detectors under test detected/recorded bats - While the Avisoft did not: But, this may be traced back to "User Error" in configuration. In other words, my 'Threshold' (and other settings) were not set at their optimum levels (at that point in time). But again, all things considered, it's always performed very well.

For my tests, the unit has always had plenty of sensitivity to spare - Just as sensitive as several of the other top-of-the-range, 'Alpha' detectors.

If Batman were to be seen using a detector, it might be the USG 116Hnm! The New Black model pictured below:

I'll probably be be following-up soon, with a post discussing the formidable software that is provided with the UltraSoundGate Series of devices - To cover some more aspects of Recorder USGH -and- Avisoft-SASLab Lite, screen capture shown below:

Until then, Happy bat detecting!

Review: The UltraSoundGate 116Hnm From Avisoft Bioacoustics Part 1 Of 2

Review of the UltraSoundGate 116Hnm from Avisoft Bioacoustics Part 1 Of 2

"Big things come in small packages"

I'm happy to report, that I had the opportunity to test and review the very latest ultrasonic device from Avisoft Bioacoustics - UltraSoundGate 116Hnm   

 

Pictured above, is the USG 116Hnm, next to a CF Memory Card for scale

The USG 116Hnm, is a brand-new device that has recently been completed and released by Avisoft Bioacoustics. The new loaner unit for test arrived to me (here in the U.S.) from Germany, very quickly - It took less than a week. I was pleasantly surprised, to receive the small package so soon. It was packaged in it's protective foam-lined carry case, and then in sturdy cardboard, held in place by strong plastic wrap. Many of you may recall receiving new books in the mail packaged in a similar fashion.

Along with the adorable little carry case (which contains the unit & it's cable), the package comes with: A small, spiral-bound User Manual, a unique USB device containing various software: Additional User Manuals (in PDF format), and a myriad of other "goodies". A brochure (which serves as an overview guide), patches of "hook & loop" fasteners (Velcro) - For attaching the USG 116Hnm to your computing device/tablet PC. See photo below:

The unit is intended (primarily) to be used on conveniently portable tablet PC's. For the test unit, I used my Asus Eee PC Seashell Series Netbook. Ultra-portable machines such as the Intel StudyBook L07 and the Lenovo ThinkPad 2 are pictured on the Avisoft Site. And, they look great with the addition of a USG 116Hnm! Not compatible with iPads, however. So, the bottom line is, that this unit is best suited with many of the (PC-based) Tablet computers currently available.

Here's the (preliminary) scoop: I really like this unit - Primarily because of it's size. I regard it as an ultra-portable bioacoustic lab. Essentially, that's exactly what it is.

Ultrasound recording instruments from Avisoft Bioacoustics are designed to meet the discriminating needs of Professionals. They are competent instruments, for serious applications. As for versatility and functionality they have no equal.

The software that controls these ultrasonic recording devices is also very adaptable. It is also not for the faint of heart. Being a proficient computer operator, will help the user take full advantage of these products. The old cliche of "The software controls the hardware" has never been more relevant.

For example, consider the (included) comprehensive Avisoft Recorder software: When you first become acquainted with it, you will discover what seems like an unending number of configuration choices. To the uninitiated, it may even seem overwhelming at first. It is as versatile as any software package I've ever seen. And, having been a Computer Systems Analyst, I've seen more than most.

Of course it should go without saying, but... reading and understanding the User Manual(s) is imperative. 
Note that the Avisoft Recorder software will not launch unless the USG device is plugged into your computing device.

Getting Ready For Some Bats:

Notice the little "protective veil" that I use, if it's drizzling and/or windy

(I'm simply fastidious with audio devices and a bit overprotective sometimes) 

The step-by-step software installation process, is found in the beginning of the (paper) User Manual. The manual is conveniently sized; and more importantly features easy to follow instructions.

The Avisoft Recorder software installs easily, with minimal effort. Once the Recorder software is installed, you may plug the USG 116Hnm into an available USB port on you computing device. Give it just a moment (for the processes to finish working in the background) and, you will see a message informing you that the USG 116Hnm has been detected/installed correctly.

You may now proceed to:

Launch the Recorder USGH software.

Make the basic selections, such as which device you're using, etc.

Check and adjust other software settings.

Enable the 'Bat Call Trigger Filter', adjust settings, etc.

Start recording 

(clicking the Pause button first is recommended, clicking it again when ready to record). 

As with all things, it will just take some getting used to: After repetitive use, and in a short time, you'll feel like a Pro.

Regarding the software in operation, you will see the abbreviation 'TRG' popping up, directly above the scrolling sonogram screen. This abbreviation pops up to indicate that an event was triggered and recorded. This is the indicator of trigger events which are currently taking place. It is in operation whether the Pause is on or not. This is neat, because you can judge the amount of triggers that are happening, whether you're recording or not. In addition, the unit itself features an orange LED indicator lamp, which lights up - As another visual indication that recording is taking place. Personally, I've always been fond of LED indicators.

The other crucial feature, is the trigger event counter - which indicates how many triggered events have taken place (the number of recordings). Displayed on the upper, right-hand side of the screen in bold, black fonts:

The new UltraSoundGate 116Hnm kit starts at only 1600 Euros (for the model tested).   

Several products produced by Avisoft Bioacoustics, which are intended to be used for bat detecting/recording, are typically priced similarly to the high-end detectors offered by others.
The exception to this, would be their UltraSoundGGate 116Hm and UltraSoundGate 116Hme devices, which are their flagship instruments for bat recording (these models are top-of-the-range). And so, their prices range from 5000 to 5700 Euros (depending on options). From what I've seen and read, regarding these devices: They are absolutely brilliant research-grade instruments. 

I had the opportunity to partially review two other devices from Avisoft Bioacoustics, in the past: The UltraSoundGate 116Hnb with EP3 electret and USG 116Hn kit with CM16/CMPA. Those two models are also in the approximate price range. Starting at $2100 Euros.
Link to my mini-review Here.

Something else I really like: The ability to hear bat calls in heterodyne technique.
Just because you've moved up, from the less-expensive bat detectors, doesn't mean that you have to "give up" the splendor of listening to your bat calls in heterodyne mode. Many people (myself included) enjoy the pleasure of being able to listen to bat calls in heterodyne fashion: Basically the ability to hear what is being picked up by the microphone unit, very close to real-time. The delay is only a very small fraction of a second, and is inconsequential.

The Avisoft Recorder software is configurable to meet any and every individual's requirements - With the potential for many different owners/users, to have just as many unique set-ups. 

How does it perform? Well, setting aside the fact that the kit offers a myriad of different set-up possibilities and optimizations - Generally, I've always found it to perform quite well indeed.
So far, results compare favourably with other high-end detectors of similar price. I'll expand more on this, in Part 2.

With so many facets of the system at your control, it's difficult to find fault with this kit.

Pros:

• Extremely compact / Ultra portable. 
• Very advanced system, for serious bioacoustic work.
• Suitable for recording vocalizations of many different animals (not just bats).
• Derives power from your computing device.
• Produces superior sonograms, with accuracy to spare.

 Cons: 

• Does not function as a stand-alone instrument, must be coupled to a computing device.
• May be costly for those who don't already own a Netbook, or (smaller) Tablet PC.
• Software is not for Beginners, of benefit only to those well versed with computer software. 

Below are a couple of sonograms of Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus), produced with the USG 116Hnm, and displayed with RavenLite: 

 

Big Brown Bat using RavenLite

Big Brown Bat using RavenLite

Well, since there will be a bit more to cover - This review will continue with Part 2 Of 2. 

Happy bat detecting!

Spring Issue Of The Journal of The Wildlife Sound Recording Society

The Journal Of The Wildlife Sound Recording Society Volume 13 No 1

The Spring 2013 issue of The WSRS's Journal arrived in my mailbox the other day.
I had originally planned to submit a bat detector review (or two) to the Editor, but was not able to complete the editing and submit them in time.

What I did have an opportunity to submit, was a slightly edited/polished version of my recent book review.
My mini-review of British Bat Calls; Which was also posted here on the blog, a while back.



Well, in any case, I'm happy to have it appear in the Journal - So, below is a scan of the WSRS Version:

Well, needless to say, I won't miss another opportunity to submit a bat detector review to The WSRS Journal. There are actually a few that I'm currently working on for submission. Among the next review(s) I'll be submitting will be: The Batlogger M from Elekon, and The USG 116Hnm from Avisoft Bioacoustics.

The next review (currently working on) is of the UltraSoundGate 116Hnm from Avisoft Bioacoustics.
I'm very excited about this unit - And I am really looking forward to sharing my findings and experiences.
I consider it an exceptional, and progressive system. Perfectly suited for those with more advanced requirements and dynamic needs; such as Bat Researchers, etc.

Happy bat detecting!