The Batcorder GSM is based on the Batcorder 3.1 and has been designed for easier bat monitoring at wind turbine sites. It allows you to survey activity at nacelle height or the height of the lower blade tip using the mast monitoring option, and relate bat activity to environmental parameters. It includes a microphone disk which is inserted directly into the turbine nacelle (gondola) through a hole with a diameter of 10cm. Mains power to the Batcorder is supplied via the wind turbine nacelle, allowing you to record for as long as your memory will last. Battery power can also be used. A GSM function lets you receive status messages from the Batcorder, reassuring you that everything is functioning and recording correctly. The Batcorder GSM can also be programmed using SMS commands. As with the Batcorder 3, the GSM model has a sampling rate of 500kHz and 16-bit resolution. The Batcorder GSM has a slow highpass filter at 16kHz to reduce turbine noise on the recordings. Files are recorded in .raw format and can be analysed using dedicated Batcorder software (see below).
The Batcorder GSM also features a USB port to connect directly to a computer. This allows you to back up your files onto a memory drive (not included) and to download all data whenever required, either directly or over an internet connection.
The mast monitoring option is a special version of the Batcorder GSM that comes with a box and a microphone for monitoring bats from a wind turbine mast at the height of the lower blade tip. The Batcorder GSM and accessories are located inside the mast and the microphone reaches the outside for recording.