Judd Communications Depth Sensor, Analog Version
To improve the accuracy of the sensor measurements, mount the sensor as close to the target as possible.
This will minimize errors that are a percentage of the distance measured. However, the sensor can not
measure closer than .5 meters to the target, and should be mounted at least 1 meter away from the target.
MOUNTING
Decide how the sensor will be mounted. Will it be attached to an existing structure or will it be mounted
on a separate stand?
If mounting to an existing structure such as a tower, attach the
depth sensor to a 6 to 8 feet section of 1/2 inch galvanized
threaded water pipe (the same kind available at your local
hardware or plumbing store). For more rigidity, use ¾ inch pipe
with a reducer. The cable should pass through the center of the
pipe unless you have ordered the sensor with the connector
option. Screw the pipe into the sensor being careful not to twist
up the cable. Do not over tighten the sensor to the pipe. When
the sensor is threaded to the pipe you will notice a small gap of
bare threads. This should be covered with electrical tape to
prevent rust. If you ordered the connector option, be sure to
cover both halves of the connector to keep out moisture. The
sensor should be mounted 4-6 feet away from any vertical
supporting structure. A good rule of thumb is 2 feet out, for
every 10 feet the sensor is mounted above the surface. The
mounting should be adjusted so that the transducer is held
parallel to the snow surface. Secure the pipe to the supporting
tower by using U bolts or tower clamps.
Measure the distance from the transducer to the target. Write
this value down, it will be used later when programming the datalogger.
If interval measurements are desired build a stand for the sensor
using the following parts:
Thread the cable through the pipe and have it exit the unused hole
on the T section, unless you have ordered the sensor with the
connector option. Screw the sensor onto the pipe being careful
not to twist up the cable. Do not over tighten the sensor to the
pipe. Once the stand is assembled you will notice four small
areas of bare threads where the pipe and couplers join. These
should be painted or covered with electrical tape to prevent rust.
If you ordered the connector option, be sure cover both halves of
the connector to keep out moisture. Secure the cable to the mast
Sensor mounted on a tower
Sensor mounted on an interval stake
base
3/4 inch plywood 2 X 2.5 feet
threaded pipe base
secure to plywood with wood screws,
centered along one side, 6 inches in from the
edge
48 inch 1/2 inch
pipe
thread into pipe base
1/2 inch "T"
attach to top of pipe
8 inch 1/2 inch pipe
attach to T