Sensor Station; Data Collection Platform (Dcp) - All Weather Inc AWOS 3000 User Manual

S Y S T E M O V E R V I E W
Optional remote display interfaces are also possible.
 The KVM Extender can be used for a remote operator terminal to interface to the CDP
using a patch cord between the KVM Extender units.
 AWOS Net can be used to broadcast data via an Ethernet connection to all active remote
displays or via the Internet to allow remote users to view the AWOS data on any
compatible computer using a standard Web browser.
A NADIN connection is possible via a direct connection to the CDP or via a Virtual Private
Network using the AWOS Net and AWOS Web interface.

1.2 Sensor Station

The sensor station measures a full array of meteorological parameters using a configurable suite
of sensors. Available sensors include wind speed, wind direction, barometric pressure, air tem-
perature, dew point temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, cloud height and sky condition,
visibility, present weather, thunderstorm detection, and freezing rain. The standard configura-
tions are listed later in this chapter.
A self-supporting tower is used as the mounting platform for the basic sensor suite. Tilt-over
towers can be provided as required. When included, the ceilometer, visibility sensor, thunder-
storm/lightning detector, and freezing rain sensor are mounted on separate foundations. All
outdoor enclosures meet IP65 (NEMA 4X) specifications.
The AWOS is protected by a comprehensive network of lightning and transient surge protection
components. Tranzorbs, MOVs, and resistors protect all sensor lines, power lines, telephone
lines, and communication lines against lightning-induced surges and power line transients and
surges.

1.3 Data Collection Platform (DCP)

The sensor station is paired with a Data Collection Platform (DCP). Located on the sensor tower,
the DCP collects data from the sensors, performs error detection on the received information,
converts the sensor data into engineering units, and transmits message packets containing sensor
data and status information to the Central Data Processor (CDP) every 5 seconds.
Communications between the DCP and CDP can be accomplished via RS-485 landline or UHF
radio link. The DCP data packets contain a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) that allows the CDP
to determine if any transmission errors have occurred. The CDP ignores data that is not received
correctly.
The dual barometric pressure sensor is housed within the DCP. A keypad and display built into
the DCP allow for on-site viewing of data and sensor maintenance.
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AWOS 3000 USER'S MANUAL