Basix View: A Smarter, Simpler Approach to Level Sensing
- tristannewton
- 14 hours ago
- 2 min read
Basix View is a simple way to get alternative level sensing, for example for use with a Vega radar level sensing head.
But first, let's briefly go through the current options for level sensing.
Float switches: The most common choice. They’re low cost, generally reliable, and easy to install and set up.
Level sensing heads: These provide accurate distance readings from the sensor to the water surface. Often used in fatty wastewater tanks where float switches can foul.
Hydrostatic sensing: The least common option. It works by measuring pressure to determine how much water is above the sensor.

Now we won't really discuss float switches as nearly everyone knows how they work (or just google it, there are a few good articles and videos).
Ultrasonic sensors come with a few challenges. They’re often expensive, sometimes costing around £2,000 for the controller and head. That alone can be a dealbreaker compared to simpler options like float switches. But price isn’t the only issue. They can also be tricky to set up, with multiple parameters and menus that can leave site engineers scratching their heads. On top of that, they don’t work well in tight tanks. Usually, they need a diameter of at least 1.1 metres to get a reliable reading.
That said, ultrasonics do have their strengths. They’re accurate, less prone to failure than float switches, and allow you to check the level without opening a manhole. But all of those benefits can be achieved with other options that are not only more cost-effective but also simpler to work with.
That’s why we recommend the Basix View. It offers the same key advantages: accuracy, easy level checking, and reliability, without the usual headaches. It’s built to be straightforward, even for someone using it for the first time.
For instructions of how to set it up, watch this video: