Intellisense Systems Inc.
Page 9
– Rev 02.25.21
Micro Weather Station (MWS
®
) User Guide – Commercial Series
MAINTENANCE
Replacing Batteries
Occasionally, the battery pack inside the MWS may require replacement. To determine if the batteries need to
be replaced, check these guidelines below:
Charging the unit via USB cable and/or setting the unit in the sun for at least 24 hours will not charge
battery to > 5 V
MWS unable to maintain standard reporting mode due to low power
Operational situation does not permit time for in-system self-charging
Flashing LED indicator lights identify a Self-Check failure.
If the above four criteria are met, the battery likely requires replacement. To replace the battery pack, please
follow the steps below:
1.
Flip the MWS over so that bottom side is facing upward (make sure the antenna and top-mounted
sensors are not damaged during this process)
2.
Loosen the 4 thumb screws at each corner to remove bottom plate (screws should remain in the bottom
plate)
3.
Pull on the tab to remove the battery from its enclosure
4.
Gently disconnect the battery harness from battery pack
5.
Connect the new battery pack to the harness
6.
Reinstall the battery pack and screw the bottom plate back onto the unit
Sensor and System Notes
Power System:
The power system of the MWS consists of nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries and crystalline solar
cells that provide state-of-the-art, reliable power storage and generation in extreme environments. The solar
power generation system on the MWS was designed to support hourly observations at a location between -50°
and +50° latitude, with 50% cloud cover, in winter conditions. By default, the MWS operates in hourly mode, but
at more extreme latitudes the MWS can be placed in 3-hour mode to reduce power consumption. Power is
considered marginal if the battery voltage ever falls below 5 V and should be conserved unless operations are
essential or critical.
Visibility Sensor (C500/600 models only):
The visibility sensor works by sensing miniscule back-reflection from
the atmosphere, so it is required for the MWS to be in an open area outdoors. It is also important for the area
above the height of the MWS to be completely clear of obstructions. Using the sensor indoors will not yield
accurate environmental data, and the area surrounding the MWS must be cleared within a radius of 30 ft. For
the most accurate readings, it is also essential that debris (leaves, dust, spider webs, etc.) not cover any areas
of the sensor.