Corrosion Protection for the 8150-661 Chamber Sensor Interface and the 8100-104 Long Term Chambers

Some users of the LI-8100 Automated Soil CO₂ Flux System have experienced corrosion problems with the pins on the 8150-661 Chamber Sensor Interface (used with the LI-8150 Multiplexer and 8100-101 Long Term Chambers for connecting Auxiliary Sensors). Similarly, the 8100-104 Long-Term Chamber has Auxiliary Sensor Input Ports that can develop corrosion if not properly protected. The corrosion is due to long-term exposure of the pins to moisture; the simplest solution is to always make sure that the connector is mated to a cable, or that the dust caps are closed, so that moisture can't enter the connectors. Another solution is to apply a small amount of grease (e.g. Dow Corning 111 Silicone Grease) to the pins. The grease will not affect the electrical performance of the connector, but will offer some corrosion protection. Apply the grease with a stiff bristled brush, or a toothbrush, to the "pin" side of the connectors.

NOTE: The grease will retain dirt and debris, which can accelerate wear on the connectors, as it can abrade the gold coating on the pin contacts. For this reason LI-COR does not routinely apply grease to the connectors at the factory.