Introducing the LoCI 8.0: What’s New, What’s Not, and What it Means for Your Landfill

The newest generation of LoCI’s field devices, the LoCI 8.0 Sentry and Controller, are here. The 8.0 generation is built on the same measurement and control technology trusted across the LoCI system today; what’s new is how you connect to it and maintain it. Below, we answer the questions we’re hearing most from customers.

What is the LoCI 8.0?

The 8.0 is the latest generation of the field devices at the heart of LoCI's real-time data and control system, including both the Controller, our wellhead-mounted measurement and active flow control device, and the Sentry, our header-mounted gas analysis device.

This design was built in direct response to what we heard from you. Customers told us that they wanted the option to service and maintain their LoCI devices themselves. With the 8.0, we re-engineered the device from the inside out, making hands-on maintenance possible without compromising performance. Teams who like to be hands-on in their wellfield now can be, and teams who'd rather leave it to us still have LoCI field service and 24/7/365 support on call.

What’s new in the 8.0?

• Improved power efficiency: Reduced power consumption allows solar-powered deployments to operator longer between charging events while supporting more flexible reporting and measurement cycle configurations to meet site-specific needs.
• Bluetooth connectivity: Connect to the device and power module directly from your phone or laptop, or from an optional LoCI service tablet, adding new visibility and replacing the hardwired handheld interface.
• Customer-serviceable design: The gas sensors, pressure sensor, cell modem, and power reset are now accessible right from the front panel.
• Smaller, lighter power module: Easier to handle, transport, and install.
• Enhanced cold-weather performance: Engineered for more reliable operation in wet and freezing conditions.
  

How does the 8.0 compare to the 7.0?

What’s staying the same?

Everything that makes the data trustworthy. Gas composition accuracy, flow accuracy, and control system performance are identical between the 8.0 and 7.0 generations. Methane and carbon dioxide measured to ±0.50%, oxygen to ±0.25%, and flow to ±2 SCFM across the standard range. The 8.0 also retains full compatibility with external 4–20 mA devices like flow meters and gas chromatographs.

I recently purchased 7.0 devices, should I be concerned?

Not at all. Your devices deliver the same gas composition accuracy, flow accuracy, and control performance as the 8.0, and they remain fully serviced and supported by LoCI. The 7.0 is a mature, field-proven platform. The first 7.0 devices, installed in late 2020, are still operating in the field today. The changes in the 8.0 are about serviceability and connectivity, not measurement quality. Your data, your WellWatcher® experience, and your support don’t change.

Will 7.0 devices still be field-serviced and supported by LoCI?

Yes, fully. Every LoCI device in the field, regardless of generation, is backed by LoCI field service and our 24/7/365 customer support line. That doesn’t change with the 8.0s.

Can I upgrade my existing 7.0 devices to the 8.0?

All new device shipments are 8.0s. If you’re interested in adding 8.0 devices to your site or have questions about upgrading your 7.0s, please reach out to sales@locicontrols.com, and we’ll walk through the best path for your operation.

When will 8.0 devices be available?

All new device shipments will be the 8.0 generation beginning July 1, 2026.

Have more questions?

Our team is here for them, whether you’re running 7.0s, planning for 8.0s, or just getting started with real-time wellfield control. Fill out the form below and we’ll be in contact with you shortly.