NMXP2MSEEDpy: a Python-based software to convert data from the Nanometrics Libra system to miniSEED format

Abstract

The primary aim of this technical report is to present NMXP2MSEEDpy, a free open­source software based on Python programming language. NMXP2MSEEDpy allows the conversion of the data stream from the NMXP format, used by the Nanometrics Libra instrumentation, to miniSEED data format. The main goal was to create a system that could rehabilitate the use of Nanometrics Libra instrumentation, which although dated, is still fully functional and performing, but is now being decommissioned also due to the obsolescence of the proprietary Nanometrics software used for the acquisition and storage of seismic data.
For this reason, it was decided to use the miniSEED format for data management. In fact, it is currently fully supported by the most used data acquisition, storage and processing software used in the seismological field. In the first part of this work, the hardware and software components of the Nanometrics Libra system will be examined in detail. This will be followed by a description of the NMXP2MSEEDpy software, focusing on its integration into a complete system for the management and distribution of seismic data, installed on dedicated hardware for remote on­site deployment. Finally, the installation carried out at an operational seismic station under real environmental conditions will be described, along with the seismic monitoring results obtained following this software upgrade.