Sensor Suite Installation Guidelines
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Ideally, mount the sensor suite so that it is between 5’ (1.5 m) and 7’ (2.1 m) above the
ground in the middle of a gently sloping or flat, regularly mowed grassy or naturally
landscaped area that drains well when it rains. You can also mount the sensor suite on the
roof, between 5’ (1.5 m) and 7’ (2.1 m) above the roof surface. For areas with average
maximum yearly snow depths over 3’ (0.9 m), mount the sensor suite at least 2’ (0.6 m)
above this depth.
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Never install the sensor suite where it will be directly sprayed by a sprinkler system.
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Avoid installations near bodies of water such as swimming pools or ponds.
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Do not locate the sensor suite under tree canopies or near the sides of buildings that create
“rain shadows.” For heavily forested areas, site the sensor suite in a clearing or meadow.
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Site the sensor suite in a location with good sun exposure throughout the day.
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For agricultural applications:
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Install the sensor suite so that it is between 5’ (1.5 m) and 7’ (2.1 m) above the
ground and in the middle of the farm between similar crop types (such as two
orchards, two vineyards, or two row crops), if possible.
•
Avoid areas exposed to extensive or frequent applications of agricultural chemicals
(which can degrade the sensors).
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Avoid installation over bare soils. The sensor suite performs best when installed over
well-irrigated, regularly mowed grass
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If the last three guidelines cannot be met, install the sensor suite at the edge of the
primary crop of interest.
Siting guidelines that may affect the anemometer
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For optimal wind data, mount the sensor suite so that the wind cups are at least 7’ (2.1 m)
above obstructions such as trees or buildings that may obstruct wind flow.
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For optimal wind data, you may mount the sensor suite on a roof, keeping in mind ease of
access to the sensor suite for maintenance and safety considerations. Ideally, mount it so
that the wind cups are at least 7’ (2.1 m) above the roof apex.
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The standard for meteorological and aviation applications is to place the anemometer 33’
(10 m) above the ground. Seek professional help for this such installation.
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The standard for
agricultural applications
is to place the wind cups 6’ (2 m) above the
ground. This is important for evapotranspiration (ET) calculations.
Note:
For roof mounting, and ease of installation, we recommend using the optional tripod (#7716). For other
installations, use the Mounting Pole Kit (#7717).
Note:
For more detailed siting suggestions, see Application Note #30 on the Davis Support website (http://
www.davisinstruments.com/support/weather).
Mounting the Sensor Suite
The Vantage Vue sensor suite can only be mounted on the top of a pole or rod.
Note:
A mounting pole is not included with your Vantage Vue sensor suite and must be purchased separately,
either from Davis Instruments or from your local hardware retailer.
