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3.0 INSTALLATION
3.1 Choose a Location
The location of the rain gauge is very important to the successful operation of the
instrument. The most accurate measurements are made in relatively sheltered areas
protected from gusting and turbulent winds. Openings in orchards or a grove of trees
offer the best exposure for the rain gauge. Fences and other structures can help serve
as a wind break as long as they are not too tall.
Generally, the heights of objects near a rain gauge should be proportional to the
distance away from the gauge. The distance of a nearby object should be at least twice
the height of the object above the gauge.
Keep the following in mind when choosing a location for your rain gauge.
The rain gauge must be level. Verify using a bubble level or by pouring water into the
T-shaped leveling trough in the base of the gauge.
Choose a location which is easily accessible for normal cleaning and is distant from
trees or other sources of heavy pollen or debris.
3.2 Install the Rain Gauge
1. Separate the cone from the base.
2. If necessary, disconnect the rain
gauge cable from the data acquisition
module.
3. A mounting arm is supplied with the
rain gauge. Mount onto the vertical
mast of the tripod supplied with the
station, using the attached u-bolt.
4. Attach the two leads of the rain
gauge cable to the appropriate
connectors on the data acquisition
module: red wire to P3, black wire to
GND. Note: The 4-conductor cable
supplied with the gauge has been
converted to a 2 wire connection
marked with red and black shrink
sleeving. (See diagram below.)
