3-1
SECTION 3. METDATA1 INSTRUMENTATION INSTALLATION
3.1 ENCLOSURE, DATALOGGER,
POWER SUPPLY
All instrumentation (datalogger, power supply,
sensor interface board, communications or data
retrieval peripherals) are mounted in the
MetData1 enclosure. Bulkhead connectors are
provided on the enclosure bottom for
connecting external sensors and devices as
illustrated in Figure 3.2-1.
Step 1) Mount MetData1 enclosure on the
station platform as shown in Figures 3.1-1 or
3.1-2.
1.
Position the enclosure on the north side
of the mast or tower (northern
hemisphere). Orient the enclosure so
that the latch is on the right side (as you
are facing the enclosure) and the
connector panel is on bottom. Tighten
U-bolts until enclosure is snug. Do not
over tighten since doing so may
damage the station platform.
2.
Route the 13 AWG wire from the brass
grounding clamp on the tripod or tower
to the enclosure grounding lug. Insert
the end of the wire into the grounding
lug and tighten the set screw.
Step 2) Open enclosure by springing the latch
on the right side.
Step 3) Install the battery pack option as
described in sections 3.1.1 or 3.1.2. Installation
of an MSX10 solar panel is described in section
3.1.3.
Step 3) Place a packet of desiccant in the
desiccant holder located inside the enclosure
lid. Close the enclosure and secure the latch.
A lock may be used on the latch for extra
security.
3.1.1 BPALK 12 VOLT POWER SUPPLY
The BPALK houses 8 “D” cell batteries. To
install the battery pack, loosen the thumb screw
and remove cover. Insert the battery pack and
plug the battery lead into the connector labeled
internal (Figure 3.1-4).
3.1.2 PS12LA 12V POWER SUPPLY WITH
RECHARGEABLE BATTERY
The PS12LA houses a sealed monoblock
rechargeable battery. To install the battery,
loosen the two thumb screws and remove the
cover (Figure 3.1-5).
1.
With the PS12 power switch "OFF", insert
the battery and plug the battery lead into the
connector labeled "INT". (Figure 3.1-3)
2.
An unregulated solar panel (Section 3.1.3) or
charging wall plug transformer should be
connected to the MetData1 at all times when
the PS12LA is the power supply option. Power
connection port is shown in Figure 3.2-1.
3.
Turn power switch to "ON", and replace the
cover.
3.1.3 MSX10 SOLAR PANEL
MetData1 Solar panels purchased from CSI are
shipped with a power connector attached.
1.
Mount the MSX10 solar panel to the tower
so that it faces south (northern hemisphere)
as shown in Figure 3.1-6 or 3.1-7. Position
the MSX10 as high off the ground as
practical, ensuring that it cannot interfere
with air flow or sunlight around the sensors.
2.
The solar panel should be oriented to
receive maximum insolation over the
course of the year. Suggested tilt angles
(referenced to the horizontal plane) are
listed below.
Site Latitude
Tilt Angle
0 to 10 degrees
10 degrees
11 to 20
La 5 degrees
21 to 45
La 10 degrees
46 to 65
La 15 degrees
>65
80 degrees
3.
After determining the tilt angle, loosen the
two bolts that attach the mounting bracket
to the panel. Adjust the angle, then tighten
the bolts. Secure the lead wire to the mast
using wire ties.
4.
Connect the solar panel to the MetData1
enclosure at the connection port labeled
"AC/SOLAR" as shown in Figure 3.2-1.
