MiDAS™ FAQ’s
What is the difference between the MiDAS™ unit and the SHEPS™ unit?
Both units can purify water and offer reliable power but the MiDAS™ unit additionally offers telecommunications and situational awareness.
What pre-deployment site preparation is required prior to operation?
The MiDAS™ unit must be placed on a solid, level surface. This may be directly on the ground or on a concrete pad, depending on your site conditions. Ideally, the deployment location is no more than 50’ from the water source. The water source should be tested to ensure sufficient flow and to identify the contaminants present.
How much solar power is offered with the MiDAS™ unit?
Four (4) 120 watt and one (1) 30 watt rugged, flexible, high efficiency crystalline solar modules are offered.
Is there any battery options available for extended usage with the MiDAS™ unit?
There is a 2 kWh lithium ion battery and a 2 kW generator that do come standard.
Are you capable to charge your cell phone, laptop, medical devices or other mobile devices?
You are capable to charge cell phones, laptops, medical devices etc.
How long will the batteries last?
Battery life is a function of several factors: How often the batteries are discharged (less is better); the depth of the discharge (shallow is better than deep discharges); the ambient temperature the batteries operate in; and the number of years in service. The battery manufacturer provides a one year warranty regardless of where the unit is located. Battery packs will need to be replaced on the average of every five years.
What is the warranty for the MiDAS™ and for the individual components?
The unit is warranted for one year (365 days) from date of shipment for defects in manufacturing or components. Once the unit leaves the WorldWater loading dock, any damage that might be incurred during transportation is the responsibility of the purchaser. The unit is packed securely.
Pass-through warranties from some of the component manufacturers are: Batteries are warranted for one year. Charge controller, inverter/charger, and system controller are warranted for two years. The solar panels have a 25 year design life.
Does the end user need to purchase anything else in order to make the units operational?
No. All necessary items are included, either installed on the unit or provided by WorldWater & Solar Technologies, Inc..
In addition, the unit is tested at the factory as a total system with the batteries, pumps and electronics, completely assembled. The only onsite assembly is plugging the extension cord from the submersible pump into proper receptacle on the unit and attaching the hoses.
Typically within 30 minutes after positioning the MiDAS™ unit near the water source, the unit is operational.
What communication technology is offered relating to situational awaresness aspect with MiDAS™?
Six handheld GPS/Radios (Garmin), Anoptional BGA Terminal, five unlocked GSM smartphones, Garmin BaseCamp™ Software is included.
What maintenance is necessary for optimal operation of the MiDAS™ unit?
Periodic cleaning of solar panels to remove dust will continue efficient capabilities. For long periods of storage, running the system, turning the generator on along with communications will help lifespan of components.
Is the MiDAS™ system waterproof and rugged enough to last in severe weather conditions?
The MiDAS™ unit is transported in a military approved Joint Modular Intermodular Container, which is comprised of aluminum. This product has a long lasting history with the military, they are dependable and durable. The solar panels, the water purification system, batteries and generator are rugged and weatherproof.
Are there any environmental conditions that would prohibit operation of the units?
MiDAS™ units should not be used for water operations in sub freezing temperatures.
If the unit is to be stored in below freezing environments the entire water system must be drained and dried. Operation at latitudes higher than 40º will result in less than optimum collection of solar irradiation.
Does the 2kW auxiliary generator come standard?
Yes, the Honda EU20000i 2.0 kW auxiliary generator does come standard.
Is only sunshine needed to purifiy water? What about diesel fuel or other external power sources?
MiDAS™ is comprised of water purification system, telecommunications package and crystalline solar array panels. The 2 kW generator, the lithium ion 2 kWh battery bank or the 510 watt solar array are capable of running the system individually. The 2 kW generator does need diesel fuel.
In one hour, how much water can be purified using the MiDAS™ unit?
There are many factors relating to the process of purifying water, time of day or location for example. The MiDAS™ unit on average, can purify around 60 gallons (227 liters) per hour dealing with freshwater. The unit can purify 18 gallons (68 liters) per hour relating to brackish water or seawater.
Does the solar array have to be constantly angled towards the sun?
No. When the unit is first positioned, it should be placed so the solar array is facing south when north of the equator, and facing north when south of the equator. Once set, the array needs no further adjustment.
What is the weight of the unit?
762 lbs. (345 kg)
If there are any problems with the components like filters, are you able to replace that component?
WorldWater & Solar Technologies is capable of replacing a damaged component. Simply call our office for assistance.
What are the operating demensions of the unit?
Area for deployment of solar array, water purification system communications and containers is 400 square feet.
