The types and the configuration of automatic weather station are different, but usually include the following items: All-weather data logger, rechargeable battery and telemetry device (optional)
Weather sensors
Solar panels or wind turbines
The primary source of power for an automatic weather station is usually one or more solar panel shunt regulators and one or more rechargeable batteries. In general, the output of solar panels is its best only 5 hours per day. Therefore, the installation angle and position are crucial. Solar panels in the northern hemisphere will be installed facing south, while the southern hemisphere will face north. The angles of installation are different, but the angle of installation should never be 5 degrees because the dust will accumulate and the power output will drop.
In sunny conditions, the output value of a 12-volt DC solar panel is: 5W = 400mA/hr 10W = 800mA/hr 20 W = 1.6 A/hr 40W = 3.3 A/hr
Mast
The standard masts used by automatic weather stations are 2 meters, 3 meters, 10 meters and 30 meters. There are other sizes, but usually these sizes have been considered as standards.
The 2m mast is used to measure parameters that affect humans. The mast height is reference head height.
The 3m mast is used to measure parameters affecting crops (eg wheat, sugar cane, etc.). The mast height is the top of the reference crop.
A 10m mast is used to measure data that is not affected by trees,such as trees,buildings or other obstacles.Usually this automatic weather station measures wind speed&direction.
The 30m mast is a hierarchical data model for measuring parameters. Wind, humidity and temperature were measured in each of the 2 m, 3 m, 10 m and 30 m layers. Other sensors are installed at a height of 2 meters or less.
The above are some common configurations of the automatic weather station. For more details, please contact Xi’an Zhongming Electric Co., Ltd. Email: info@zmsensor.com
Shell
The enclosure of an automatic weather station is usually an all-weather fiberglass, ABS resin or stainless steel.
ABS plastic housing is characterized by light weight and low price. The ABS plastic housing is a commonly used automatic weather station housing,but it is less secure and stronger than fiberglass or stainless steel.
Fiberglass enclosures are characterized by resistance to chemical or water corrosion.
Stainless steel housing is the best choice, and it is usually 316s/s or 304s/s. Stainless steel shell with corrosion and chemical resistance.These chassis are also expensive and the same size of the cost can be more than double the glass fiber shell.
