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2.
How It Works
Personal lightning detectors work by detecting the electromagnetic pulse (EMP) emitted by a lightning
strike. By measuring the strength of the detected EMP, the device can then estimate how far away the
detected strike was.
Have you ever heard the crackling of a lightning strike on your AM radio? A lightning strike has a
distinct waveform that can be processed and analyzed by detector hardware and software.
Through the application of electronics and software, personal lightning detectors identify storm
activity within 25 miles (40 km) of your location.
3.
Features
•
Detects lightning within 25 miles (40 kilometers)
•
High or low sensor sensitivity selectable to meet different installations
•
Long wireless range up to 330 feet (100 meters) in open areas
•
Transmits readings every 79 seconds
•
Suspension eye for easy mounting
4.
Limitations
Do not make important life-threatening decisions based on this lightning detector. We do not
recommend this device for safety, both personal and public.
Personal lightning detectors cannot measure the exact location of a lightning strike. Lightning
detectors are also sensitive to false alarms. Despite these limitations, personal lightning detectors
continue to increase in popularity among individuals and professionals.
Although personal lightning detectors function well with respect to their ability to detect nearby
lightning, they are quite basic in functionality when compared to professional lightning detectors.
For example, they cannot tell where a lightning strike was located, or from which direction the
lightning is approaching, only that lightning is in the area. Also, since a personal lightning detector is
triggered by EMPs, interference from other EMP-emitting devices (such as electronic equipment,
appliances, fluorescent lights and even car engines) can sometimes result in either false alarms or
missed strikes.
This interference often has the additional effect of preventing personal lightning detectors from
functioning properly while indoors or near outdoor electronic equipment.
5.
Getting Started
The Ambient Weather WH31L lightning detector includes the following:
5.1
Parts List
QTY
Item
1
Lightning Detector (123 x 42 x 14 mm or 4.8 x 1.6 x 0.5”
