Springer is an open-source side-scattering optical sensor built from commercially available parts, aimed at making turbidity measurement cheap enough to replicate for oceanographic research.
Sensor head holds three LEDs (650/670/720nm, with a 490nm + red-filter option for phytoplankton fluorescence) at 90° to a photodiode receiver, built around scintillation vials for quick calibration.
A transimpedance amplifier converts the photodiode’s current into a voltage the ADS1115 ADC can read; an Arduino Nano sequences the LEDs through common-emitter transistor switches and streams readings out over RS232.
A custom PCB keeps every component properly grounded and swappable as a single plate, rather than hand-wiring each build.
PVC housing with O-ring seals and epoxy-potted optics keeps the electronics dry while minimizing optical distortion in the light path.
