Orion Nomad™ Portable Weather Station

Both wind speed and direction are measured using an advanced ultrasonic sensor. The sensor uses ultrasound to determine horizontal wind speed and direction. The array of three equally spaced ultrasonic transducers on a horizontal plane is an ideal design which ensures accurate wind measurement from all wind directions, without blind angles or corrupted readings.

The wind sensor has no moving parts, which makes it maintenance free. The measurement range for wind speed is from 0 to 134 mph (0 to 60 m/s) and for wind direction from 0 to 360°.

Barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity measurements are combined in an advanced sensor module utilizing capacitive measurement method for each parameter.

Barometric pressure is measured using a silicon-based sensor. The sensor has minimal hysteresis and excellent repeatability, as well as outstanding temperature and long-term stability. The measurement range is from 17.72 to 32.48 in. Hg (600 to 1100 millibars)

Temperature measurement is based on a ceramic sensor. The measurement range is from -61.6 to 140 °F (-52 to +60 °C).

Humidity measurement is based on a capacitive technology. The sensor is highly accurate and it offers excellent long-term stability in a wide range of environments with negligible hysteresis. The measurement range for humidity is 0 to 100% RH.

This tri-sensor module is mounted in a specially designed radiation shield and is easily replaceable and available as a spare component.

The shield protects the sensors form both scattered and direct solar radiation and precipitation. The plastic material in the plates offers excellent thermal characteristics and UV stabilized construction. The white outer surface reflects radiation, while the black inside absorbs accumulated heat.

The rainfall measurement is based on an impact sensor, which detects the impact of individual rain drops. The signals exerting from the impacts are proportional to the volume of the drops. Hence, the signal from each drop can be converted directly to the accumulated rainfall. Due to the measurement method, flooding, clogging as well as wetting and evaporation losses in rain measurement are eliminated.

The Orion is a maintenance-free weather station that will provide you with years of operation. However, there are some simple steps you can take to extend the life of your sensor module.

• Periodic cleaning - To ensure the accuracy of measurement results, the sensor module should be cleaned when it gets contaminated. Leaves and other such particles should be removed from the precipitation sensor and the transmitter should be cleaned carefully with a soft, lint-free cloth moistened with a mild detergent. Be careful when cleaning the wind sensors as they should not be rubbed or twisted.

• Replacing the PTU module - The PTU module contains separate sensors for pressure, temperature and humidity. Sensors can drift over time and the manufacturer recommends replacing the PTU module once every two years to ensure that your unit meets its stated accuracy. This can be done in the field.