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Step 1: Sensor Preparation

This guide describes how to prepare an AudioMoth sensor prior to field deployment.

Required Applications​

Download the following applications from Open Acoustic Devices:

  • Flash App (desktop) – update firmware

  • Configuration App (desktop) – load recording schedule

  • Time App (desktop) – set device clock

  • Chime App (mobile) – set clock in the field (from the iPhone app store or Google Play Store for Android devices)

::: tip Ensure all applications are updated. Firmware and Time apps usually do not require frequent updates. :::

Prepare the microSD Card​

AudioMoths require a microSD card to record. The creators of AudioMoth have tested many cards and have found that Sandisk Extreme UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) microSDXC cards are the most energy efficient. See the SD Card Guide for more info.

  1. Insert microSD card into your computer (you will need a microSD card adapter).

  2. Format the card to EXFAT.

::: warning This erases all data on the card. :::

Windows Formatting Instructions​

  1. Insert the microSD card into your computer using a microSD to SD Card adapter.

  2. Open File Explorer and locate the card under This PC.

  3. Right-click the microSD card and select Format….

    Windows Drive Formater

  4. In the File System dropdown, choose exFAT.

  5. Leave Allocation unit size set to Default.

  6. Ensure Quick Format is checked.

  7. Click Start.

  8. When the confirmation dialog appears, acknowledge that all data will be erased.

  9. After formatting completes, click OK..

Safely eject the card.

Prepare the AudioMoth Unit​

  1. Remove the device from its housing.

  2. Move the switch to USB/Off.

    image of the AudioMoth with the switch in the off position

  3. Remove old batteries and microSD card.

  4. Insert three new AA batteries (same brand and type).

  5. Insert the freshly formatted microSD card.

  6. Connect the AudioMoth to the computer via a USB cable that is capable of data transfer.

Update Firmware​

Use the most up-to-date firmware version unless you need an old version for some reason. The versions will be listed in the "Flash App".

  1. Open the Flash App.

    This screenshot has not detected a device and cannot be "flashed" until one is connected

  2. Download the latest firmware.

  3. Click Flash AudioMoth.

  4. Wait for confirmation that flashing is complete.