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Pulsar™ Weather Station

Pulsar Weather Station 600 with Doppler radar precipitation sensor shown with opt. Weather MicroServer

“The best technology when it comes to data collection for weather.”

Our top-of-the-line weather station model offers the ease of all-in-one sensor head with several different meteorological parameter configurations to choose from. Requires Weather MicroServer or Weather Display Console.

Features

  • Choice of sensor configuration in all-in-one module
  • Ultrasonic wind sensor, No moving parts
  • Advanced Doppler radar measures precipitation type, intensity
  • Ventilated radiation protection
  • Accurate and stable measurements
  • Heated sensor available for extreme winter weather
  • Fast and simple to install
  • Low maintenance and one-year warranty

All-in-One Sensor Module with multiple sensor configurations

PULSAR SENSOR MODELS 800 700 601 600 502 501 500 400 200 100
Temperature X X X X X X X X
Relative Humidity X X X X X X X X
Precipitation Type X X X X X
Precipitation Intensity X X X X X X
Rain Accumulation X X X X X X
Air Pressure X X X X X X X X
Wind Direction and Speed X X X X X X X X
Solar Radiation X X X X
Lightning Detection X

Electronic Compass X X X X X X X X

Pulsar Weather Monitoring System Diagram

Pulsar Weather Monitoring System Diagram
w/ Lightning detection

Pulsar 800 / 700

w/ tipping bucket rain gauge

Pulsar 601

w/ Doppler rain sensor

Pulsar 600

w/ solar radiation

Pulsar 502

w/ solar radiation

Pulsar 501

wind + PTU

Pulsar 500

w/ Precipitation Type, Intensity

Pulsar 400

wind only

Pulsar 200

precip only

Pulsar 100

Sensor Measurement & Specifications

Pulsar Weather Stations incorporate various meteorological parameters as well as an electronic compass in a compact, all-in-one sensor head. Click below to expand for specific sensor and measurement details.

Both wind speed and direction are measured using an advanced ultrasonic sensor. The wind meter uses four ultrasonic sensors which take cyclical measurements in all directions. The resulting wind speed and direction are calculated from the measured run-time sound differential.

The wind sensor has no moving parts.

Heated sensor unit is available for installations subject to extreme winter weather.

Sensor included in Pulsar Weather Station models 601, 600, 501, 500, and 200 (wind only).

Wind Direction
Range: 1 - 359.9°
Accuracy: < 3° RMSE > 1.0 m/s

Wind Speed
Range: 0 - 75 m/s (601: 0 to 30 m/s)
Accuracy: ±0.3 m/s or ±3% (0 - 35 m/s); ±5% (>35 m/s)
Resolution: 0.1 mph (0.1 m/s)


Air pressure is measured using a MEMS capacitive sensor.

Temperature measurement utilizes a precision NTC element.

Relative Humidity is measured by means of a capacitive sensor element.

Sensors are mounted in a fan-aspirated and ventilated radiation-protective housing.

Sensors included in Pulsar Weather Station models 800, 700, 601, 600, 502, 501, 500, and 400.

Air Pressure
Measuring Range: 300 to 1200 hPa
Accuracy: ±0.5 hPa (0 to 40°C)

Temperature
Measuring Range: -50 to +60°C
Accuracy: ±0.2°C (-20°C to +50°C) otherwise ±0.5°C (>-30°C)

Relative Humidity
Measuring Range: 0 - 100% RH
Accuracy: ±2% RH


Pulsar Weather Station model 501 integrates the world-renowned Kipp+Zonen CMP3 thermopile sensor which measures the solar energy that is received from the total solar spectrum and the whole hemisphere (180 degrees field of view). The output is expressed in Watts per meter square.

Rated ISO 9060:1990 Second Class, it is intended for shortwave global solar radiation measurements in the spectral range from 300 to 2800 nm. The thermopile detector measures irradiance up to 2000 W/m² with response time <18 seconds and typical sensitivity 10 µV/W/m² that varies less than 5 % from -10 ºC to +40 ºC.

Pulsar Weather Station models 800,700 and 502 use a silicon photodiode radiation sensor.

Solar Radiation (model 501 )
Response time (95%): <18s
Non-stability (change/year): <1%
Non-linearity (0 to 1,000 W/m2): <1%
Directional error (at 80° with 1,000 W/m2): <20 W/m2
Temperature dependence of sensitivity: ±5% (-10 to +40°C)
Tilt error at 1,000 W/m2: <1%
Spectral range (50% points): 300 to 2800 nm
Maximum irradiance: 1400 W/m2

Solar Radiation (models 800, 700, 502 )
Response time (95%): <1 s
Unit: W/m2
Accuracy: 5%
Spectral range (50%points): 300 to 1100 nm
Measuring range: 1400 W/m2


Doppler Radar -- Pulsar Weather Station models 800, 700, 600, 400, and 100

Precipitation is measured by a 24 GHz Doppler radar which measures the drop speed of an individual drop of rain or snow. Precipitation quantity and intensity are calculated from the correlation between drop size and speed. The Doppler Radar sensor is able to sense (measure) rain drops size between 0.3 mm and 5.0 mm. The sensor is fast responding with a resolution of 0.0004 inches (0.01 mm).

The Pulsar 100 Model also differentiates sleet, freezing rain and hail.

Tipping Bucket -- Pulsar Weather Station model 601 only

Precipitation is measured by tipping spoon and tipping bucket processes. The flexible tipping bucket allows a 0.2mm or 0.5mm resolution of the rainfall.

Optionally, the 601 also can be equipped with a leaf wetness sensor.

Precipitation

Doppler Radar Model 600
Measuring Range: Drop size 0.3 - 5mm
Resolution 0.01 mm
Reproducibility: typ>90%
Type: Rain / Snow

Doppler Radar Model 100
Measuring Range: Drop size 0.3 - 5mm
Resolution 0.01 mm
Accuracy: ±0.16mm or ±10% of measured value of liquid precipitation
Type: Rain / Snow / Sleet / Freezing Rain / Hail

Tipping Bucket (model 601)
Accuracy: ±2%
Resolution 0.2 mm / 0.5 mm


The Pulsar Weather Station model 800 includes lightning detection by an integrated sensor which analyzes the radio wave emission of the lightning and delivers a count of recognized strikes.

The sensor analyzes spectrum and wave form of the received signal to suppress the detection of man-made electrical discharges.

Lightning Detection: Number of lightning events

Coverage Area: 5-10 km


Wind Speed
Measuring Range: 0-75 m/s (WS601: 0 to 30 m/s)
Accuracy: ±0.3 m/s or ±3% (0 to 35 m/s); ±5% (>35 m/s)
Resolution: 0.1 mph (0.1 m/s)

Wind Direction
Measuring Range: 0-359.9°
Accuracy: < 3° RMSE > 1.0 m/s

Solar Radiation (model 501 only)
Response time (95%): 18s
Non-stability (change/year): >1%
Non-linearity (0 to 1,000 W/m²): >1%
Directional error (at 80° with 1,000 W/m2): >20 W/m²
Temperature dependence of sensitivity: ±5% (-10 to +40°C)
Tilt error at 1,000 W/m²: >1%
Spectral range (50% points): 300 to 2,800 nm
Maximum irradiance: 1,400 W/m²

Solar Radiation (models 700, 800)
Response time (95%): <1s
Accuracy: 5%
Spectral range: 300 to 1100 nm
Measuring range: 1400 W/m²

Lightning Detection (model 800 only)
Lightning Detection: Number of lightning events
Coverage area: 5-10 km

Air Pressure
Measuring Range: 300 to 1200 hPa
Accuracy: ±0.5 hPa (0 to 40°C)

Temperature
Measuring Range: -50 to +60°C
Accuracy: ±0.2°C (-20°C to +50°C) otherwise ±0.5°C (>-30°C)

Relative Humidity
Measuring Range: 0 - 100% RH
Accuracy: ±2% RH

Precipitation

Doppler Radar (model 100)
Measuring Range: Drop size 0.3 - 5mm
Resolution 0.01 mm
Accuracy: ±0.16mm or ±10% of measured value of liquid precipitation
Type: Rain / Snow / Sleet / Freezing Rain / Hail

Doppler Radar (model 400, 600, 700, 800)
Measuring Range: Drop size 0.3 - 5 mm
Resolution 0.01 mm
Reproducibility: typ>90%
Type: Rain / Snow

Tipping Bucket Rain Gauge (model 601 only)
Accuracy: ±2%
Resolution 0.2 mm / 0.5 mm


PULSAR SENSOR MODELS 800 700 601 600 502 501 500 400 200 100
Temperature X X X X X X X X X
Relative Humidity X X X X X X X X
Precipitation Type X X X X X
Precipitation Intensity X X X X X X
Rain Accumulation X X X X X X
Air Pressure X X X X X X X X
Wind Direction and Speed X X X X X X X X
Solar Radiation X X X X
Lightning Detection X
Electronic Compass X X X X X X X X

Pulsar Model 800: Lightning detection, Doppler radar precipitation, ultrasonic wind speed and direction, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, solar radiation, electronic compass

Pulsar Model 700: Doppler radar precipitation, ultrasonic wind speed and direction, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, solar radiation, electronic compass

Pulsar Model 601: Tipping-bucket rain gauge, ultrasonic wind speed and direction, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, electronic compass, optional leaf wetness

Pulsar Model 600: Doppler radar precipitation, ultrasonic wind speed and direction, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, electronic compass

Pulsar Model 502: Solar radiation (silicon photodiode), ultrasonic wind speed and direction, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, electronic compass

Pulsar Model 501: Solar radiation (second-class class pyranometer), ultrasonic wind speed and direction, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, electronic compass

Pulsar Model 500: Ultrasonic wind speed and direction, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, electronic compass

Pulsar Model 400: Doppler radar precipitation, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure

Pulsar Model 200: Ultrasonic wind speed and direction, electronic compass

Pulsar Model 100: Precipitation (type, intensity, accumulation)


Data Viewing & Monitoring

Select your desired method of data viewing and monitoring. Click a title to expand text for additional information.

FTP output (XML and CSV) • XML web service • Internet browser user interface

SNMP, Modbus/OPC and RTU communication protocols are standard for Industrial Management applications.

Compatible with CWOP (Citizen Weather Observer Program) and Weather Underground, the MicroServer can automatically post data from your weather station to these network websites.

Open WeatherMicroServer Page

Weather MicroServer

Industrial grade WVGA touchscreen displays current weather data, trends, min/max.

Computes and displays wind chill, heat index and other calculated parameters.

Seven-inch color LCD panel with 800 x 480 pixel resolution.

Available in desktop/wall-mount chassis, 19" rack mount, or panel mount.

Open Weather Display Page

Color Weather Display

Weather Master™ is our proprietary software optimized for CWS weather stations. It provides computer weather monitoring, calculated parameters, graphing and trend displays, as well as automatic archiving of weather data, alarm notification, interface with CAMEO/ALOHA, and weather web page updates.

Open Weather Master Software Page

Weather Software

Check current conditions quickly from a hand-held mobile device for decision-making in the field. The CWS Weather Monitor App is compatible with all CWS weather stations that include the Weather MicroServer. The app includes three real-time monitoring screens which display standard meteorological parameters. Access to a Cloud Weather Server account is required

Open Weather Monitor App Page

Weather Monitor App

4-20mA signal output is available to interface to PLC, DCS, and SCADA systems. Please contact us for a quotation.

Call for a quote toll free 1-866-625-8620 or email.


Connection between sensor head and monitoring device

Included with the Pulsar Weather Station is a 50-foot section of sensor cable which connects to the Interface Module. Longer lengths are available.

A standard 7-foot serial communication cable connects the Interface Module to the Weather MicroServer. Extra length RS-485 cable is available up to 200 feet.


Masts & Mounting Hardware

Due to the wide variety of installations, masts and mounting hardware are sold separately. The following items are available from Columbia Weather Systems. Click to expand for details.

10-ft steel mast comes in two five-foot sections that pressure-fit together, galvanized with a polymer clear coating.

Catalog Number: 88005

(May be used with Roof or Wall Mount Kit below.)


Includes universal mast mount, guy wire clamp, guy wire, lag screws, and eye bolt screws.
Catalog Number: 88002

(Does not include mast - User supplied or select steel mast above)

Open Hardware Kit PDF including diagrams

Roof-Mt Hardware Kit

Roof Mount Hardware Kit
(Catalog Number 88002)


Includes 4" wall mounts with lag screws..
Catalog Number: 88003

(Does not include mast - User supplied or select steel mast above)

Open Hardware Kit PDF including diagrams

Wall-Mt Hardware Kit

Wall Mount Hardware Kit
(Catalog Number 88003)


This tripod mast is designed to provide 8 to 10 feet of stable, secure support for your weather station sensors or other instrumentation. Set up takes less than five minutes.

Competitively priced and sturdy, the tripod is constructed from welded aluminum and anodized for appearance and longevity. The 15-pound tripod can support up to 60 pounds of equipment such as weather sensors on a 1" (outside diameter) vertical pipe stub.

Operational Features

  • Study construction supports up to 60 pounds of equipment
  • Legs insert easily into body and fasten securely with stainless steel retainer pins
  • Guy wires clip quickly to feet for increased stability
  • Includes tiedown kit for optional optimized stability

Tripod Specifications

Capacity: Supports up to 60 lbs.
Diameter: 1" OD
Shipping Weight: 17lbs
Shipping Box Dimensions: 70" x 8" x 8"

Order Information

Tripod with Tiedown Kit, Catalog Number: 88019
Tripod Tote for storage and transportation, Catalog Number: 88009

Open Tripod Data Bulletin PDF

Weather Station Tripod Mast
Tripod Leg Joint
Tripod TieDown Kit

Universal mounting adapter to attach weather sensors to existing towers or alternate masts, even those with multiple instruments. Can be used vertically or horizontally. Aluminum construction. Includes two clamps for mast of up to 3” diameter.

Catalog Number: 88022-1

(Does not include mast - User supplied)

Open Diagram PDF

Weather Station Mount
Weather Station Mounting Adapter

Universal Mount for Tower/Mast (Catalog Number 88022-1) shown above with Orion Weather Station sensor.


Accessories

The following accessories are available. Surge protection with the Lightning Arrestor is highly recommended. Click a title to expand text for additional information.

Three-stage surge protector, for data and power signals.

A nearby lightning strike may induce a high voltage surge which the internal suppressor of your weather instrument may not be able to withstand, causing significant damage to the weather station. Protect your weather station investment with a Lightning Arrestor.

This compact transient overvoltage suppressor is designed for weather stations in areas with an elevated risk of lightning strike.

  • Superior 3-stage surge protection
  • Tolerates up to 10kA surge currents
  • Both differential and common mode protection on each channel
  • Filtering against HF and RF noise
  • Two power channels and two data channels
  • Environmental protection class IP66

Catalog Number: 8355

Includes adjustable mounting clamp.

Open Lightning Arrestor PDF

Lightning Arrestor

Plugs directly into the Ethernet Port on the Weather MicroServer.

Catalog Number: 8356


Plugs directly into Serial Port on a computer or Weather MicroServer.

Catalog Number: 8353


The weatherproof enclosure houses the power supply and wireless transceiver for wireless weather stations.

Designed for use in either indoor or outdoor settings, the enclosure can be used in highly corrosive environments typically found in oil refineries, chemical processing plants, waste water treatment, and marine installations.

Cables are routed through liquid tight strain relief fittings.

Construction:

  • Molded fiberglass polyester has outstanding chemical and temperature resistance and exhibits excellent weatherability and physical properties.
  • Seamless foam-in-place gasket assures watertight and dust-tight seal.
  • Polyester mounting feet and stainless steel attachment screws are provided with each enclosure.
  • The quick-release, corrosion-resistant polyester latches are located in corners which allow unobstructed access to enclosure.

Overall Size:
L 10 x W 8 x H 6 inches (254 x 203 x 152mm)

Weatherproof Enclosure

A weatherproof enclosure is available to house the Weather MicroServer and protect it from the elements.

Designed for use in indoor and outdoor settings, the enclosure can be used in highly corrosive environments typically found in oil refineries, chemical processing plants, waste water treatment, and marine installations.

Cables are routed through liquid tight strain relief fittings.

Construction:

  • Molded fiberglass polyester has outstanding chemical and temperature resistance and exhibits excellent weatherability and physical properties.
  • Seamless foam-in-place gasket assures watertight and dust-tight seal.
  • Polyester mounting feet and stainless steel attachment screws are provided with each enclosure.
  • The quick-release, corrosion-resistant polyester latches are located in corners which allow unobstructed access to enclosure.

Overall Size:
L 10 x W 8 x H 6 inches (254 x 203 x 152mm)


To fully power weather stations in applications that do not have access to electricity, we offer solar panels. These are custom per installation based on geographical location. Most common are 20 and 40-watt systems.

Catalog Number: 83000

Includes

  • Solar panel
  • Controller
  • Mounting adapter
  • Battery and battery enclosure
Solar Power Panels

In addition to the standard one-year warranty, which is included with the purchase price, we offer standard factory warranty extensions on all weather station components in additional one-year increments up to a maximum of five years.

The Free One-Year Standard Factory Warranty and the Extended Standard Factory Warranty do not cover damage due to normal wear and tear, exceptional operating conditions, negligent handling or installation, or unauthorized modifications.

Warranty options can only be purchased with new orders.

Catalog Number: 85110


The new battery back-up option provides continuous power to the weather station system in the event of an electrical outage. The 12VDC battery comes in a NEMA enclosure and can power a non-heated Orion LX Weather Station for up to three days. It is available for most weather station configurations.

Catalog Number: 8395-1
Enclosure Size: 12" x 10" x 6"
Enclosure: 16 gauge galvanized steel with polyester power finish
Industry Standards: NEMA/EEMAC Type 3R
Battery: 28 AHr Sealed Lead Acid Rechargeable
Power Input: 88 - 264VAC
Power Output: 12VDC

Battery Backup

Open Pulsar Brochure PDF PDF

Pulsar Brochure


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Open Pulsar User Manual PDF PDF

Pulsar User Manual


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