Review: The MiniMIC From Binary Acoustic Technology Part 3 Of 3

Review: The MiniMIC From Binary Acoustic Technology Part 3 Of 3

What we have established (in Parts 1 & 2 of this review), is that The MiniMIC is not only a very capable ultrasound recording solution, but it may interest you to know, that it is even more capable than most. 

To answer a question which a few Bat Workers/Professionals have had: Yes, it must be plugged-in to a PC of some kind. Whether it be laptop, sub-notebook, or hand-top computer.
Again, installation is Plug-and-Play.

The MiniMIC can be used as one would use a "standard" bat detector/recorder. The key, to using it comfortably, is to use one of the latest PalmTop/Handtop PC's. Many of them are very neat, compact and easy to handle. 
In fact, Binary Acoustic Technology recommends using one, right on their Site (The MiniMIC page).  
When using a PC which is small & light enough: The MiniMIC is great for active recording, with it's live sonogram display. Sometimes, double-sided foam tape can be a good friend.
And, of course, it's excellent for unattended recording.

During the (Approx. 1 Month+) test period, with The BAT MiniMIC - It just so happened, that the laptop where my Kaleidoscope software resides, experienced a hard drive crash... So, I was (sort-of) "forced" to use more and more features of The SPECT'R III & SCAN'R software, from B.A.T.

In the following review, I refer to the pages/sections of the SPECT'R and SCAN'R User Manuals. The Reader should not take this as an indication that the User Manuals are complex! In fact, the very opposite is true: Both User Manuals are short, simple, and a pleasure to read. All necessary information is succinctly laid-out. The same is true of the Hardware Manuals - Well done, B.A.T.

---Thoughts regarding SPECT'R III ---

Many will be very pleased to learn that while using SPECT'R's Audio Monitoring: Listening through your PC's speakers (while either simply monitoring, or recording) - SPECT'R is functioning as a heterodyne detector (4.0.5 in Manual).
The audio output sounds great - Very strong, even on my little sub-notebook (mini-laptop) with it's tiny speakers.

I found the overall design and look of the software's main interface/dialog box simple and easy to use.

Of course, this application is excellent for acquiring the recordings from Binary Acoustic Technology's various microphones (hardware).
It's very simple to go from launching the application -to- recording bats.
I like the accuracy of the different features:  

• The Spectral Trace Window
• The moveable (Green) Tuning Indicator (P. 3.5 in User Manual)

I also like:

• Automatic Snapshot Mode (P. 3.6.1)
• Being able to select, between Natural -and- Digitally Compensated response.
• The ability to select frequency range (where Snapshots are triggered).
• The Pop Filter (reduces false triggers from a variety of unwanted sources).
• The ability to easily select UTC or Local time (for call logging)

SPECT'R III also generates a Log File, automatically. As many of you are aware, several bat recorders (from other manufacturers) do this In a similar fashion. And, I'll say it again: It reminds me of the Log File of a computer server (from my days as a Network Engineer).
Logging all the events which the system has experienced.

Pros- 

• It features an Operation Timer (P. 3.7.1) - Allowing recording to start & stop at times which you designate.

• Remote File Transfer - Allows you to set-up a remote collection (Web-enabled) PC, to receive Snapshot recordings from the main machine. (P. 3.8)
• May be used with (an optional) GPS unit (The Garmin GPS18x USB) P. 3.10

Cons -

•  Unable to be used as a stand alone recorder.

Some key sections of the SPECT'R III (Ver.3.3) User Manual:

3.4.1 Main Screen Control Section
3.4.2 SonoSCOPE Control Window
3.4.3 Spectral Trace Window
3.6    Recording
3.6.4 Snapshot specific controls
3.8    Remote File Transfer
4.0    Basic Operation 
4.0.7 Snapshot Recording
4.0.8 Running SonoSCOPE

SPECT'R III may be ordered Here.

--- Thoughts regarding SCAN'R ---

SCAN'R (Snapshot Characterization and Analysis) is the application developed by Binary Acoustic Technology, to allow one to analyze and process ultrasonic recordings.
The software itself, features a fairly simple design and easy to use interface.

This product is the ideal companion to the aforementioned SPECT'R software. 
SCAN'R basically allows you to determine which recordings contain bat calls, and which do not. Or, in some cases - Recordings which picked-up noise, etc.
It refers to bat calls and non-bat calls as "passed" or "failed", respectively. This makes it very easy for you to delete the "failed" recordings, which didn't record bat calls. I've found it to be very accurate in this capacity. 

As per Chapter 2, of The SCAN'R User Manual: "It supports two different base parameter sets...(conforming) to both Analook and SonoBat protocols"

Pros -

• Includes Signal Pressure Level (SPL) and curvature, a spectral shape measurement.
• Ability to process many files (recordings) at one time. 
• Settings are saved for the next session of use.

Cons - 

• Only has base parameter sets for Analook and SonoBat. 

Some key sections of the SCAN'R (Ver.1.7.3) User Manual:

3.4.2 Input File Selector
3.5    SCAN'R Menu Operation
3.6    SCAN'R Setup and Operation Windows
3.6.2 Scan Setup Window
3.7    Trace Window
3.8    SCAN'R Output File

SCAN'R software may be ordered Here. 

Happy bat detecting!

Review: The MiniMIC From Binary Acoustic Technology Part 2 Of 3

Review: The MiniMIC From Binary Acoustic Technology Part 2 Of 3

When I was a young Lad attending one of my first (private) schools, for those wanting to become Computer Technicians...
The very first thing they taught us was: "Hardware needs software...and software needs hardware." Meaning that each needs the other, in order to function. 
Something for the Novice to keep in mind; simple, but true.

In light of the small "herd" of computer-based bat recorders, which have started to find their way here (to me, for review) - Perhaps this saying bears repeating. At the very least, for the sake of any Beginners, who may be considering the purchase of such devices.
Because - These bat recorders are basically, hardware devices, which do require software.
In the case of these ultrasound recorders, the "software section" is being provided by your computer (in simplest terms).

Several of these types of bat recorders have already been reviewed here. Including, in fact, another great detector from Binary Acoustic Technology: The AR125 
You can see my Review of it here: Part 1, Part 2
 
I have also reviewed devices here from: Avisoft, Wildlife Acoustics, Dodotronic - Several more are currently in progress (This BAT MiniMIC, The M500) - And there are a couple more, still in development...

...Back to The MiniMIC USB Microphone, from Binary Acoustic Technology. And, the software which comes bundled with it - A full-licensed copy of SPECT'R III and a "limited" copy of SCAN'R; along with device drivers, etc. All located on the included CD ROM.

A screen-capture of SPECT'R, Window maximized while running

Note: When using SPECT'R, with it's default Contrast & Brightness settings: The (scrolling) live display (spectrogram) window always looks best when it isn't maximized. If you choose to use it maximized, then some minor adjustments to those two controls, will yield a better-looking display.
As you may have seen, in my First Impressions post, and Part 1 of this Review: The BAT MiniMIC kit has a very neat and simple appearance. Again, it is of a nice compact size and weight. Also, this MiniMIC is not a brand-new product. It has been available for over a year now.

After more than a month of testing, comparing, and (sometimes) simply using The MiniMIC: I've become very familiar with it's capabilities. Within this time, The MiniMIC microphone and SPECT'R III software has never let me down. The software never "froze" or crashed.
Something else to note, is that unlike several other (similar) microphone control applications: SPECT'R will allow you to launch it, without a device attached. It may seem minor to some, but I found this to be a plus.

SCAN'R - Automated Call Analysis Processor, is described very well by Binary Acoustic Technology, on their Website: 

"SCAN'R is a post collection processing tool.  It automatically scans files and file directories searching for recordings with bat calls.  It generates either SonoBat or Anabat compatible parameter sets.  It also runs on Windows XP/Vista/7/8. "

Now, I know of some Professionals, who shun computer-based recorders. Apparently, they have their reasons...None that I happen to agree with (for the most part).

The way I feel about this subject, can be summed-up as follows: "Injecting" the detected ultrasound directly into your computer, (creating a recording) removes an extra step: 
You don't need to remove, and (physically) transport an SD Memory card (from the recorder, to the computer). Then, copy the recordings (typically .wav files) over to the PC where you'll analyze them. Many of you are probably thinking "It's not that big a deal in the first place, really". And, I might have even agreed with you! But, I've grown rather accustomed to this arrangement lately...

Well, on the topic of computer-connected ultrasound recorders, a few have shared their dislikes with me.

I have read quite a few complaints in the past (again, mostly from Professionals). Among the ones that I do recall (at the moment) are:

• They would rather not be tethered to a laptop.
• They would rather have a device with batteries, replaceable in the field.
• They would rather not have a bright laptop screen to look at (ruining their dark-adapted eyesight)

And, some of us might agree with some (or all) of these Cons.

I enjoy doing passive recording, so I don't mind being connected to a computer.
Laptop batteries although expensive, are not un-obtainable. I will admit, that they'll add considerable weight and bulk, to your kit (bag).
I can certainly understand the concern over a laptop screen ruining one's night-adapted vision. It is a legitimate concern. The only thing I can add here, is that I almost always keep my LCD display(s) at their lowest/darkest setting. While in use, in the field, my thinking was: "I know it's recording, so there's no need to keep looking at it"
Again, I will point out the increasing popularity of Palmtop/Handtop computers (although I don't own one myself).

{For those who might be wondering: I use the term computer, because the term PC (Personal Computer) is generally used to represent Windows-based devices. And, The Echo Meter Touch only connects to iOS (Apple) devices}

What I'd simply like to establish here, is the general ability and performance of The BAT MiniMIC. 
I have performed comparisons and "Shoot-outs" against other bat recorders; practically to the point of exhaustion! I should remind the Reader, that I'm just a "one-man-show" here...
And, what I've found - Is that it's ability, is amazing!
Whenever I wanted to record every, single, last, bat in the area - The MiniMIC was the recorder to reach for. While it is turned on, bats will be hard pressed to "sneak through" your airspace undetected.

This brings us to the next point: What if you require (or simply prefer) to use a hand-held bat recording solution? Such as: An AnaBat SD2, an EM3, a Batlogger M, etc.
Well, then by all means, there is no reason why you should not equip yourself with one!
But, some bats will be missed. If you can accept that reality, then all is well.
I can accept it pretty easily, since I'm just a Hobbyist. Others may not... 

As I've mentioned in a related post: Whenever I test any bat-related product, which runs on a PC: I test it on several different laptops, to monitor it's behaviour, etc.
I noticed something, when putting SPECT'R III "through it's paces": It never had an issue, no matter how old or slow a laptop I ran it on. It always performed without problems.

The SPECT'R III application is used to control and operate the MiniMIC (or other BAT ultrasonic receivers) via a standard USB cable. It basically transforms your laptop/palmtop, into a hard disk drive-based ultrasound recorder. 
It runs smoothly, on Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7 and 8.

It is one of (the two) software applications which will be covered in further detail, in Part 3 of this review.

Until then,

Happy bat detecting!

Review: The MiniMIC From Binary Acoustic Technology Part 1 Of 3

Review: The MiniMIC Ultrasonic Microphone From Binary Acoustic Technology Part 1 Of 3

The new MiniMIC from Binary Acoustic Technology is a USB-powered, ultrasonic microphone for recording the ultrasonic sounds (of bats). I'll also point out, that the frequency range for this device, is 1 to 125kHz. Which means, that those (of us) who are also interested in recording singing insects, are in luck!

As covered in my 'First Impressions' post - The unit arrives very well packaged: Double-boxed; the inside box (containing the MiniMIC) is a sturdy, plain white box. 
The BAT MiniMIC microphone unit itself, is constructed from Aluminum. It is well-built, and nicely compact. It is very easy to travel with. Many people travel with their laptop anyway - So, add this neat device and it's USB cable, and you're set.

The back-end of The MiniMIC

It connects to your PC, via a USB cable (provided). The USB cable is of good quality, with Gold-plated connectors. One end inserts into The MiniMIC, the other into an available USB port of your (Windows-based) computing device. It also comes packaged with a CD, which  includes one full copy of the latest version of SPECT'R recording software. And a trial (“limited”) version of SCAN’R. The trial version of SCAN’R is limited so that it only processes recordings generated by BAT systems, either SPECT’R recordings using the miniMIC and AR units, or their other field recorders.
Again, the CD included with my test unit, contains a copy of both SPECT'R III and SCAN'R software. These are the proprietary applications, developed by Binary Acoustic Technology. To be used with their various hardware (recording devices).

After a fairly straightforward software installation; using the device is simple: 

• Attach The MiniMIC to your laptop (or other Windows-based computer) via the USB cable supplied.
• Launch The SPECT'R III software.
• Customize the various recording Settings, as per your preference.
• Create a prefix for the name of the recording files (such as "21st", or "SOVIII" for "Shoot-Out 8"). This short prefix will be automatically generated, and added to the beginning of each recorded .wav file.
• Once you complete the previous step (above) you will be prompted: "Would you like to start recording now?"
• Click "Yes" and you will observe the live spectrogram display and may adjust volume. 

I will cover more on these particular (software) topics, in Parts 2 and 3 of this review. I've recently determined, that this review will need to be split into 3 Parts; in order to properly cover all aspects of the system.

In addition, preliminary tests have shown The MiniMIC to posses excellent resistance to common sources of interference (EMI); such as those produced by household appliances and switching power supplies - Including A/C adapters for laptops (for one example).

The current price is $695 (US Dollars). Price is subject to change. The MiniMIC USB Microphone may be ordered directly from Binary Acoustic Technology; by e-mailing: Sales at Binary Acoustic Technology (sales@binaryacoustictech.com)
You may also browse their full Product List Here.

The design looks very simple and neat. Most would never guess that such a plain-looking piece of hardware, could provide such astounding results. 
The simple fact is, this device can detect, and make useful (accurate) recordings of bats in flight - at greater distances than any detector I've ever tested. 

Yes, I do realize that is quite a statement... So, I'll give you a minute to let that sink in...

After confirming bats at well over 60 Meters, I stopped concerning myself with any further calculation of distances...
If you needed to get nice, clear, recordings of bats from The Stratosphere, this would probably be the device to reach for!

Not only does it record the calls at further distances - which has always been a very important factor (for me)... But, the recordings are clearer, more accurate, and with no clipping. This is due in part, to the Hemispherical ultrasonic element which Binary Acoustic Technology uses in The MiniMIC. Which you can read a bit about Here.
Here is the Link to a PDF document  (by Binary Acoustic Technology) with a great explanation of the new technology at the heart of this successful system.

I actually began performing various nightly "Shoot-outs". I performed no fewer than 8 shoot-outs (just to be sure!) using various top-of-the-range machines. And each time, The BAT MiniMIC came out on top. The overall accuracy of this unit is amazing. It consistently recorded bats, which other detectors missed.

During my various tests, I also discovered something else - The recordings created by The BAT MiniMIC were of such high quality, that they enabled Auto ID software packages (such as Kaleidoscope) to produce more accurate identifications!
More accurate identifications, as compared to recordings from the other, high-end detectors.

So, it doesn't just pick up many more bats, and the recordings are not only made at greater distances; but they are also of exceptional quality. The spectrograms produced are lovely.

The MiniMIC USB Microphone would be ideal for anyone performing passive (stationary) recordings of bats. It may also perform very well for driven transects; where the use of a laptop isn't a hindrance. 
Unless the computer used is very small, and light (perhaps a Palmtop?) - I cannot see The MiniMIC being a superior candidate for walking transects. However, with the recent popularity of UMPC's (defined Here), you may be able to outfit yourself with a set-up which would be comfortable enough to walk with.

It would be perfect for someone recording bats from inside a home. I've tested it in this way many times, using various laptops. It's very convenient to set-up. The (weatherproof) Aluminum enclosure is secured outside, pointing in the general direction of expected bat activity. 
You may even perform work on your laptop, while detection is in progress - With no ill-effects at all...More on this in Part 2, and 3.

...This new MiniMIC has just set the bar very high.   

Much more to follow in Part 2 Of 3...

Until then,
Happy bat detecting!

Review: SonoChiro Auto Bat Call ID Software

Review: SonoChiro Auto Bat Call ID Software

The SonoChiro software from Biotope, is an automated bat call identification program. This software package is provided as a downloadable/Online purchase; from the Biotope Website.

The process of purchasing, downloading, and installing the application is very straightforward. Most potential owners/end users, will no doubt already be well-experienced with this typical install process.
The downloaded executable for SonoChiro is 9.8MB in size, and installation is fairly quick and easy; with no "surprises". The most time-consuming portion of the process, is filling-in the electronic Registration form.

SonoChiro is provided on an annual subscription basis, which includes all updates for one year. The current price is 846 Euros, including VAT.

As many of my Visitors may know by now, whenever I review any bat detecting product: I like to be quite descriptive, in regards to every feature and detail. As an example, for the past couple of years, I've even included photos of the shipping box the equipment arrives in. Not such an odd practice, I think... I've seen reviews of various products, where the reviewer includes such (packaging) details.
Here, we are discussing a downloaded software package, so I may not have any physical packaging to describe...However, SonoChiro features some interesting designs. I've already expressed my fondness of their main (purple) bat logo (in the 'First Impressions' Post).

I even like the Biotope logo! 

{So, if the Folks at Biotope / SonoChiro offer any apparel featuring these logos - please let me know!}

Upon launching, you'll notice that The SonoChiro application features a neat dialog box (screen shot below). The purple background is a stylized photo of a bat in flight. Don't let the modest size of it's interface fool you: This software application is serious business! How do I know this?

SonoChiro application dialog box

Having had a fairly long career as a Computer Engineer, I have a natural tendency to really put computer software (and hardware) "through it's paces", etc. And, I find myself testing and experimenting with such products in ways which only an advanced Engineer would understand.
So, I tested this application in many different ways. As always, this application has been tested on more than one laptop.

As a simple example - While testing it on one laptop in particular: I found that the application uses quite a bit of the computer's resources. To the point where the laptop began to run hot!

Now, almost all software applications will suggest, that you "close any other programs" which you may have open/running, etc. And, of course it is always a good practice to close applications that you are not using. However, in the case of SonoChiro, I feel that it is even more important to adhere to this suggestion. Especially, if you happen to be using it on an older, slower laptop. 

Having stated all that...During the test period I can say, that I've never had The SonoChiro "crash", freeze, or stop responding. Only those who are very experienced with software, can fully appreciate how impressive this is.

The ideal buyer of SonoChiro ID software, would be someone who records bat calls in any of the geographic areas indicated on (their) Map - Which may be seen on Page 5 of the User Manual. Note - North America is not included (unfortunately for me!).

Since the main output format of this bat call ID software is in Microsoft Excel format - This product would be best used, by someone who is familiar with this MS Office application. I mention this specifically, since a .csv file is the only output that SonoChiro produces.

This is not to say that mastery of Microsoft Excel (or any other App capable of viewing a .csv file) is required. My point, is that if I were a potential customer - I would want to be well-versed in the manipulation of .csv files. In order to get the most out of the data produced.

The process of using SonoChiro is very simple - Basically comprised of:

1. Specifying the location of your recordings.
2. Chosing a name for your Output (Excel/.csv) file.
3. Select one of the (preset) geographical ranges.
4. Click on 'Start'

That is basically it, then you just sit back and wait for your .csv file to be created. And, I do mean sit back and wait...because this software takes it's time...
Well, just remember the old saying - "all good things to those who wait"

From the many tests I've put this software through, I can state that it is indeed very accurate. This was largely determined, by using known (voucher) calls - Of species which were within SonoChiro's capabilities. The example (voucher) calls were of various species of bats, and happened to have been recorded by (well-known) respected Scientists in the field of Bat Research. I won't go into all the details at this time.

Pros -

• Powerful, robust, software that doesn't crash.
• Very accurate and reliable for ID of bat calls.

Cons -

• Only outputs results in one file/format (.csv file).
• Doesn't cover North American species.

If you are looking for an accurate and dependable bat call identification software, and you live in one of the geographical ranges covered - Then I would highly recommend that you look into SonoChiro!

Good luck, and...

Happy bat detecting!

The BAT MiniMIC Ultrasonic Microphone From Binary Acoustic Technology: First Impressions

The BAT MiniMIC Ultrasonic Microphone From Binary Acoustic Technology: First Impressions

I'm very pleased to report the arrival of the New BAT MiniMIC Ultrasonic Microphone.  
The test unit, arrived yesterday; from Binary Acoustic Technology (in Tucson, Arizona). I've been fascinated by this (relatively new) recording system; since first reading about it several months ago. In fact, I would advise anyone who is interested in a PC-based recorder to take a good look at The MiniMIC's Page Here.

I'm happy to declare that this is not my first time testing and reviewing an ultrasonic recording device from Binary Acoustic Technology. Almost exactly one year ago, I wrote a Review of their AR125 (which is still available for purchase, from their Site).
  As evidenced by my past experience (with The AR125 from BAT), the company is obviously keen on shipping their products neatly, and well-protected. At this point, I presume it's safe to say that the sturdy, pink foam-lined boxes are standard. For those who happen to hold things like proper packaging in high regard: You may rest assured - All components of The MiniMIC microphone kit are well-packed and protected. Below, is a photo of the recently unpacked BAT MiniMIC:

The double-boxed and well packaged MiniMIC
 

This USB-based ultrasonic microphone has several unique features. As per this (partial) snippet, from the Binary Acoustic Technology Site states:

" It employs low noise circuitry along with 16-bit digital converters to achieve high sensitivity along with a large dynamic range.  It is capable of detecting bats at a distances up to one hundred and forty feet."

16-bit digital processing is certainly impressive in it's own right...Low noise circuitry is nothing to sneeze at either. But, it's the second sentence (above) which interests me a great deal - Since (again) the distance at which a bat detector can record bats, has always been at the top of my "List" of priorities.
When it comes down to the discussion of the performance and value of an ultrasonic device, I'm usually anxious to determine the distance at which bats can be picked up.

Well, for now I'll just state that preliminary tests have been impressive. I'm not entirely certain, of how well liked computing-based bat recording devices are, in general. But, I've liked them from the start. And, I find myself becoming more and more fond of them. They have a lot to recommend them. As we shall see in the upcoming reviews...Of both The BAT MiniMIC and The M500 from Pettersson.

Until then...

Happy bat detecting!

The New micro trio X05 Series Bat Detector From Ciel EaM

I'm very happy to report the arrival of a New (full-production-PCB) micro trio X05 Series bat detector from Ciel EaM. The test unit I have (pictured below) still happens to sport the black & yellow cover - But, the important thing is, that I can fully recommend this flagship of their new X05 Series detectors.

The (new) micro trio test unit from Ciel 

The full-production units will be black & blue in colour (as pictured on their Site). And they will be a pleasure to use! Excellent! 

I'll be re-visiting this bat detector in a future post...

Happy bat detecting!

The Pettersson M500 Ultrasonic Microphone - First Impressions

The Pettersson M500 USB Ultrasonic Microphone - First Impressions: Wow!

It's here! It arrived rather quickly, here to the U.S. from Sweden. Un-boxing and first impressions are simply wonderful! As always, products from Pettersson Elektronik are always very well-packaged.

"Great things come in small packages"

For this test unit, an additional USB mini male to USB-A male was included. This is the much shorter coiled version, shown still in the package in the Pic below:

The M500 in box, along with coiled cable for Tablet PC use

I confirmed with Mr. Pettersson, and the additional coiled/compact USB cable will be included at no charge, upon request. This is the case when ordering from Pettersson directly. If ordering your M500 Microphone from an Authorized Dealer, it would be best to ask.

As you can see, the unit is small. However, it is robustly built. Very well-made, with solid construction throughout.

 The M500, standard USB cable, and USB Thumb Drive containing software

Installation was a breeze! And, although I've only "tested" it for a very short time (since it's recent arrival) - I can tell you that I am thoroughly impressed with this device!

The included recording software is perfectly laid-out, and features everything you need to start recording bats.

Much more to follow!

New Product From Pettersson Elektronik - The M500

Just a short Post for now: I just wanted to make sure that everyone was aware, of a new bioacoustic microphone, from Pettersson Elektronik - It's The M500 USB Ultrasonic Microphone. It's competitively priced, and has some excellent specifications:

• A 500 kHz sample rate
• 16 bits ADC resolution
• High-quality microphone with optional directional horn
• An advanced anti-aliasing filter

I find each of these major specifications very exciting!
I'd also like to inform you, that I will be reviewing one of these units in the future. I'm really looking forward to it!


In the meantime, I came across a very nice review of The M500, by Dean Waters (Vespero Consulting). Check it out Here.
 
I've been informed, that there will be a minor delay in the delivery of The BAT miniMIC; so that review won't be posted as early as I originally expected.

Happy bat detecting!