Weather Stations: Saving Time and Money with Remote Communications

Data logging weather stations can be valuable tools in many research applications in a wide variety of environments. In addition to collecting data regularly and reliably and reducing human error, the right type of weather station can save you research dollars, labor and time.

The latest generation of weather stations with remote communications capabilities can save you even more by dramatically reducing the costs associated with station maintenance, data download, and data loss.

This paper will provide specific information about three ways weather stations with remote communications can save time and money, and will help guide you in deciding whether such systems are right for your application.

Weather Station Basics

Data logging weather stations are used by a wide range of researchers in environments all over the world. These stations contribute to successful work in applied and basic research in agriculture, ecology, climate studies, water resources management, green technology, and other fields.

Weather stations monitor such parameters as temperature, rainfall, wind speed, wind direction, soil moisture, light intensity and others. The sensors are mounted on a tripod, and are connected with cables to a data logger that stores measurements. Units typically run on battery and/or solar power, and all components must be designed to withstand long-term outdoor weather conditions.