Orion LX Weather Station, LX User Manual

Orion LX Weather Station 1

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

Orion LX Weather Station™

User Manual

Version 1.04

All specifications subject to change without notice.

Printed in U. S. A.

2 Orion LX Weather Station

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© Copyright 2007-2008 Columbia Weather Systems, Inc. All Rights
Reserved.

Proprietary Notice: Orion, Orion 510, Orion LX, Capricorn 2000,
Capricorn 2000MP and Capricorn 2000EX are trademarks of Columbia
Weather Systems, Inc. The information and drawings contained herein
are the sole property of Columbia Weather Systems, Inc. Use of this
publication is reserved exclusively for customers of Columbia Weather
Systems, Inc. and their personnel. Reproduction of this material is
forbidden without the express written consent of Columbia Weather
Systems, Inc.

Parts of the Orion LX Weather Station™ user manual were adapted from
the Weather Transmitter WXT510 User’s Guide with permission from
Vaisala Oyj.

WINDCAP®, RAINCAP®, HUMICAP®, BAROCAP® and
THERMOCAP® are registered trademarks of Vaisala.

This product contains software licensed under one or more of the
following open source licenses:

General Public License (GPL)
Lesser General Public License (LGPL)
Net-SNMP license
Lighttpd License
PHP License (This product includes PHP, freely available from
http://www.php.net)

Upon request, source code for software licensed under the GPL and
LGPL is available from Columbia Weather, Inc.

Orion LX Weather Station 3

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

Welcome!

Welcome to the Columbia Weather Systems family of users and
congratulations on your purchase of the Orion LX Weather Station.

The Orion LX Weather Station is quite easy to install and you may be
tempted to skip the installation procedure or other portions of this
manual. We recommend that you resist that urge. A thorough knowledge
of these installation and calibration procedures will greatly increase the
usefulness and the accuracy of your instrument. In particular, a proper
installation will help prevent problems with both operation and
maintenance.

Please read this manual completely prior to installation.

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Orion LX Weather Station 5

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

Important Notice: Shipping
Damage

BEFORE YOU READ ANY FURTHER, please inspect all system
components for obvious shipping damage. The Orion LX is a high

precision instrument and can be damaged by rough handling. Your unit
was packaged to minimize the possibility of damage in transit. Therefore,
we recommend that you save the shipping container for any future
shipment of your Orion system.

In the event your order arrives in damaged condition, it is important that
the following steps be taken immediately. The title transfers automatically
to you, the customer, once the material is entrusted to the transport
company.

NOTE: DO NOT RETURN THE INSTRUMENT TO COLUMBIA
WEATHER SYSTEMS until the following steps are completed. Failure to
follow this request will jeopardize your claim.

1. Open the container and inspect the contents. Do not throw away
the container or any damaged parts. Try to keep items in the
same condition as originally received.

2. Notify the transport company immediately in writing, preferably
by facsimile, about the shipping damage.

3. Wait for the transport company’s representative to inspect the
shipment personally.

4. After inspection, request permission from Columbia Weather
Systems for return of the damaged instrument by calling the
Service Department, [phone].

5. Return approved items to us at the following address:

Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

2240 NE Griffin Oaks Street, Suite 100

Hillsboro, OR 97124

6. After return authorization is issued and we receive the
instrument, an estimate of the cost of repair will be sent to you
for submittal to the transport company as a claim.

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ESD Protection

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) can cause immediate or latent damage to
electronic circuits. Vaisala products are adequately protected against
ESD for their intended use. However, it is possible to damage the
product by delivering electrostatic discharges when touching, removing,
or inserting any objects inside the equipment housing.

To make sure you are not delivering high static voltages yourself:

1. Handle ESD sensitive components on a properly grounded and
protected ESD workbench. When this is not possible, ground
yourself with a wrist strap and a resistive connection cord to the
equipment chassis before touching the boards. When neither of
the above is possible, at least touch a conductive part of the
equipment chassis with your other hand before touching the
boards.

2. Always hold the boards by the edges and avoid touching the
component contacts.

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Table of Contents

WELCOME! ..................................................................................3

IMPORTANT NOTICE: SHIPPING DAMAGE .......................5

ESD P

ROTECTION

............................................................................................. 6

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION ................................................11

T

HE ORION LX WEATHER STATION

............................................................... 11

Features:.................................................................................................... 11

S

ENSOR TRANSMITTER SPECIFICATIONS

......................................................... 12

Temperature............................................................................................... 12

Barometric Pressure .................................................................................. 12

Wind Speed ................................................................................................ 12

Wind Direction........................................................................................... 12

Relative Humidity....................................................................................... 12

Rainfall ...................................................................................................... 13

Input Voltage.............................................................................................. 13

Heating Power Source ............................................................................... 13

W

EATHER MICROSERVER SPECIFICATION

...................................................... 13

P

RINCIPLES OF MEASUREMENT

...................................................................... 14

Wind Measurement .................................................................................... 14

Barometric Pressure, Temperature, and Relative Humidity (PTU) Module

................................................................................................................... 15

Rainfall Measurement ................................................................................ 16

SECTION 2: PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION...............................17

S

YSTEM COMPONENTS

................................................................................... 17

O

RION

510 S

ENSOR TRANSMITTER

................................................................. 18

Sensor Transmitter Components ................................................................ 18

Mounting Adapter ...................................................................................... 20

Internal Terminal Block............................................................................. 20

Heating (Optional)..................................................................................... 22

Orion Interface Module ............................................................................. 23

Orion Weather MicroServer ...................................................................... 24

W

EATHERMASTER

2000 S

OFTWARE (OPTIONAL

) ....................................... 25

W

EATHER DISPLAY CONSOLE (OPTIONAL

) .................................................... 26

SECTION 3: INSTALLATION .................................................27

W

EATHER STATION SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS

............................................. 27

I

NSTALLATION OVERVIEW

.............................................................................. 27

T

OOLS NEEDED

............................................................................................... 28

M

ATERIALS NEEDED

...................................................................................... 28

U

NPACKING THE UNIT

.................................................................................... 29

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Installing the Orion 510 Sensor Transmitter ............................................. 30

Site Selection: ............................................................................................ 30

Installing the Mounting Adapter ................................................................ 30

North Alignment......................................................................................... 31

Installing the Mast ..................................................................................... 32

Location ..................................................................................................... 32

Mounting Method....................................................................................... 33

Routing Cable ............................................................................................ 33

Connecting the Sensor Transmitter to the Interface Module ..................... 34

Connecting the MicroServer ...................................................................... 35

SECTION 4: OPTIONAL SENSOR MOUNTING

HARDWARE ...............................................................................36

Roof Mounting ........................................................................................... 36

Wall Mounting ........................................................................................... 38

Tripod ........................................................................................................ 40

Specifications ............................................................................................. 41

SECTION 5: OPERATION ........................................................44

O

RION LX MICROSERVER USER INTERFACE

.................................................. 44

H

OME PAGE

.................................................................................................... 45

Shutdown.................................................................................................... 45

L

ATEST MEASUREMENTS

................................................................................ 46

M

EASUREMENTS DEFINITION

......................................................................... 47

N

ETWORK SETUP

............................................................................................ 53

C

HANGE PASSWORD

....................................................................................... 54

D

ATE AND TIME

.............................................................................................. 54

O

RION OUTPUT

............................................................................................... 55

Station Name.............................................................................................. 55

Serial Port 2............................................................................................... 55

FTP Output ................................................................................................ 55

Diagnostic Logging.................................................................................... 56

SNMP O

UTPUT

............................................................................................... 56

M

ODBUS

TCP O

UTPUT

................................................................................... 56

C

ONFIGURATION FILE

..................................................................................... 57

S

ELECT MEASUREMENTS

................................................................................ 58

D

ATA LOGS

.................................................................................................... 59

P

ARAMETER SETTINGS

................................................................................... 59

F

IRMWARE UPDATE

........................................................................................ 60

D

IAGNOSTICS

.................................................................................................. 61

Start Orion ................................................................................................. 61

Stop Orion.................................................................................................. 61

Restart Orion ............................................................................................. 61

Reboot ........................................................................................................ 61

XML W

EB SERVER

........................................................................................ 62

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SECTION 7: MAINTENANCE .................................................64

C

LEANING

....................................................................................................... 64

R

EPLACING THE

PTU M

ODULE

....................................................................... 64

F

ACTORY CALIBRATION AND REPAIR SERVICE

.............................................. 65

SECTION 8: TROUBLESHOOTING .......................................66

SECTION 9: USER SUPPORT INFORMATION ...................68

L

IMITED WARRANTY

...................................................................................... 68

EXCLUSIONS ............................................................................................ 68

R

ETURN FOR REPAIR PROCEDURE

.................................................................. 69

REFERENCE ...............................................................................72

G

LOSSARY

...................................................................................................... 72

Aspirating Radiation Shield ....................................................................... 72

Barometric Pressure .................................................................................. 72

Celsius Temperature Scale......................................................................... 72

Dew Point .................................................................................................. 72

Fahrenheit Temperature Scale................................................................... 72

Heat Index.................................................................................................. 72

Relative Humidity....................................................................................... 73

Sea Level Pressure ..................................................................................... 73

Wind Chill .................................................................................................. 73

U

NIT CONVERSION

......................................................................................... 74

Speed.......................................................................................................... 74

Temperature............................................................................................... 74

Distance ..................................................................................................... 74

Pressure ..................................................................................................... 74

T

ABLES AND FORMULAS

................................................................................. 75

Wind Chill Chart........................................................................................ 75

Wind Chill Equation .................................................................................. 76

Heat Index.................................................................................................. 77

Dew Point .................................................................................................. 78

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Orion LX Weather Station 11

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SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION

The Orion LX Weather Station

Utilizing cutting-edge ultrasonic technology at an amazingly affordable
price, the Orion LX Weather Station offers an innovative weather
monitoring systems that is Internet ready out of the box.

The Orion 510 sensor transmitter includes ultrasonic wind direction and
speed, impact rain, capacitive relative humidity, temperature and
barometric pressure sensors – all in a single module.

High accuracy and fine resolution make this new system ideal for
precision weather monitoring. Orion’s sensors meet FAA and WMO
specifications for aviation operations, as well as EPA requirements for
scientific environmental monitoring applications.

The Orion LX MicroServer offers two serial ports for direct
communication and an Ethernet port for network and Internet
communication. The MicroServer is based on a small computer board
running the Linux operating system with 512 MB flash memory.

Orion data can be monitored over the network, with our proprietary
Weather Display Console and WeatherMaster™ Software, as well as
with third-party software.

Features:

• Six most essential weather parameters measured in one

instrument

• Accurate and stable measurement

• Ultrasonic wind sensor and impact precipitation sensor

• FTP output, XML weather Web server and Browser user

interface

• No moving parts means virtually no maintenance

• LCD touch-screen display console and powerful PC weather

software

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Sensor Transmitter Specifications

Temperature

Range: -60 to 140°F (-52 to +60°C)

Accuracy: ±-0.5°F (±0.3°C) at 68°F (+20°C)

Resolution: 0.1°F (0.1°C)

Units Available: °F, °C

Barometric Pressure

Range: 17.50 to 32.50 InHg (600 to 1100 mbar)

Accuracy: ±0.015 InHg (0.5 mbar) at +32 to 86°F

(0 to 30°C)

±0.03 InHg (1 mbar) at -60 to 140°F (-52 to 60°C)

Resolution: 0.01 InHg (0.1 mbar)

Units Available: Kpa, mbar, InHg

Wind Speed

Range: 0 - 115 mph (0 - 60 m/s)

Accuracy: ±0.7 mph (±0.3 m/s)

Resolution: 1 mph (1 m/s)

Units Available: knots, mph, km/hr, m/s

Wind Direction

Azimuth: 0 - 360°

Accuracy: ±2°

Resolution: 1°

Relative Humidity

Range: 0 - 100%RH

Accuracy: ±3%RH (0-90%), ±5% (90-100%)

Resolution: 1%RH

Units Available: %RH

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Rainfall

Range: cumulative

Collection Area: 60 cm2

Accuracy: ±5% (spatial variations may exist)

Resolution 0.01 in. (0.254mm )

Units Available: mm, inches

Input Voltage

The Orion LX is supplied with a wall mount transformer.

Input: 120 VAC, 60 HZ, 16 W

Output: 12 VDC, 800 mA

The Orion can also be powered directly using a DC voltage source.

Input: 5 to 30 VDC (60 mA at 12 VDC)

Heating Power Source

Input: 5 to 30 VDC (1.1 A at 12 VDC)

Weather MicroServer Specification

Dimensions: 4.45” W x 2.60” H x 5.71” D

200 MHz ARM9 Processor

32 MB SDRAM, 512 MB Flash Memory

8-38 VDC Power Supply

2 Communication Serial Ports, 1 Ethernet Port

Linux Operating System

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Principles of Measurement

Wind Measurement

Both wind speed and direction are measured using advanced ultrasonic
technology. The sensor utilizes ultrasound to determine horizontal wind
readings. The array of three equally-spaced ultrasonic transducers on a
horizontal plane is an ideal design that ensures accurate wind
measurement from all directions, without blind angles or corrupted
readings.

The wind sensor has no moving parts, which makes it virtually
maintenance free.

Wind speed and wind directions are determined by measuring the time it
takes the ultrasound to travel from each transducer to the other two.

The wind sensor measures the transit time (in both directions) along the
three paths established by the array of transducers. This transit time
depends on the wind speed along the ultrasonic path. For zero wind
speed, both the forward and reverse transit times are the same. With
wind along the sound path, the up-wind direction transit time increases
and the down-wind transit time decreases.

The wind speed is calculated from the measured transit times using the
following formula:

Vw = 0.5 x L x (1/ tf – 1/tr

where:

Vw = Wind speed

L = Distance between the two transducers

tf = Transit time in forward direction

tr = Transit time in reverse direction

Measuring the six transit times allows Vw to be computed for each of the
three ultrasonic paths. The computed wind speeds are independent of
altitude, temperature and humidity, which are cancelled out when the
transit times are measured in both directions, although the individual
transit times depend on these parameters.

Using Vw values of two array paths is enough to compute wind speed
and wind direction. A signal processing technique is used so that wind
speed and wind direction are calculated from the two array paths of best
quality.

The wind speed is represented as a scalar speed in selected units (m/s,
kt, mph, km/h). The wind direction is expressed in degrees (°). The wind

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direction reported indicates the direction that the wind comes from. North
is represented as 0°, east as 90°, south as 180°, and west as 270°.

The wind direction is not calculated when the wind speed drops below

0.05 m/s. In this case, the last calculated direction output remains until
the wind speed increases again to the level of 0.05 m/s.

The average values of wind speed and direction are calculated as a
scalar average of all samples over the selected averaging time (1 ... 900
s). The sample count is based on a 4 Hz sampling rate. The minimum
and maximum values of wind speed and direction represent the
corresponding extremes during the averaging time.

Barometric Pressure, Temperature, and Relative
Humidity (PTU) Module

Barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity measurements are
combined in an advanced sensor module (PTU) utilizing a capacitive
measurement method for each parameter. The PTU module contains
separate sensors for pressure, temperature, and humidity measurement.

The measurement principle of the pressure, temperature, and humidity
sensors is based on an advanced RC oscillator and two reference
capacitors against which the capacitance of the sensors is continuously
measured. The microprocessor of the transmitter performs compensation
for the temperature dependency of the pressure and humidity sensors.

Barometric pressure is measured using a capacitive silicon
BAROCAP® sensor. The sensor has minimal hysteresis and excellent
repeatability, as well as outstanding temperature and long-term stability.

Temperature is measured with a capacitive ceramic THERMOCAP®
sensor.

Relative humidity measurement is based on a capacitive thin film
polymer HUMICAP®180 sensor. The sensor is highly accurate with
negligible hysteresis and excellent long-term stability in a wide range of
environments.

Radiation Shield: This module is mounted in a specially-designed
radiation shield which protects the sensors from both scattered and
direct sunlight and precipitation. The composite material in the plates
offers excellent thermal characteristics and UV stabilized construction.
The white outer surface reflects radiation, while the black inside absorbs
accumulated heat.

The internal sensor module is easily replaceable and readily available as
a spare component. To order a replacement module, please use catalog
no. 9581.

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Rainfall Measurement

Rainfall is measured with an impact sensor, which detects the size and
impact of individual rain drops. The signals resulting from the impacts are
proportional to the volume of the drops. Hence, the signal from each
drop can be converted directly to the accumulated rainfall.

This measurement method eliminates flooding and clogging, as well as
wetting and evaporation losses.

The sensor transmitter uses RAINCAP® sensor 2 technology in
precipitation measurement.

The precipitation sensor is comprised of a steel cover and a piezoelectric
sensor mounted on the bottom surface of the cover.

The precipitation sensor detects the impact of individual raindrops. The
signals from the impact are proportional to the volume of the drops.
Advanced noise filtering technique is used to filter out signals originating
from other sources than raindrops.

The measured parameter is accumulated rainfall. Detection of each
individual drop enables computing of rain amount with high resolution.

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

SECTION 2: PHYSICAL
DESCRIPTION

System Components

1. Orion 510 Sensor Transmitter

2. 50 ft sensor cable

3. Orion Interface Module with power supply

4. Orion LX MicroServer with Ethernet cable, RS-232 cable, and
power supply

5. WeatherMaster software (optional) with RS-232 cable

6. Weather Display console (optional) with RS-232 cable and
power supply.

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Orion 510 Sensor Transmitter

The Orion 510 Sensor Transmitter is an all-in-one sensor unit containing
ultrasonic wind speed and direction sensor, temperature sensor, relative
humidity sensor, barometric pressure sensor and an impact rain sensor.

The temperature, relative humidity and barometric pressure sensors are
combined in a single module housed in a self-aspirating radiation shield.

Sensor Transmitter Components

1: Top of the transmitter

2: Radiation Shield

3: Bottom of the transmitter

4: Screw cover

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Cut Away View

1: Wind Transducers (3 pcs)

2: Precipitation Sensor

3: Pressure sensor inside the Sensor Module

4: Humidity and temperature sensor inside the Sensor Module

Bottom of the Transmitter

1: Alignment direction sign

2: Service port

3: Water tight cable gland

4: Unused cable gland, covered

5: Connector (not available with Orion)

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Mounting Adapter

To facilitate easy installation and north alignment, the Orion 510 Sensor
Transmitter comes standard with a mounting adapter. The mounting
adapter is easily connected on the end of the mast and the sensor
transmitter simply snaps into it. The north alignment needs to be
performed only once.

Internal Terminal Block

The sensor transmitter is shipped with a one (1) foot cable terminated by
an 8-pin connector half.

This cable is connected to the sensor transmitter via a terminal block.

The Orion sensor transmitter has a standard RS-232 wiring as shown
bellow:

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Terminal

Number

Signal

Color

3 TX- Orange
5 RXD Black
6 SGND Green
19 VIN- White
20 VIN+ Red

For heated sensor transmitters, terminal 17 (HTG-) is connected to the
Blue wire and terminal 18 (HTG+) is connected to the Brown wire.

RS-422 wiring is also available for longer communication cable lengths.

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Heating (Optional)

Heating elements located below the precipitation sensor and inside the
wind transducers keeps the precipitation and wind sensors free from
snow and ice. A heating temperature sensor (Th) underneath the
precipitation sensor controls the heating.

Three fixed temperature limits, namely +3 °C, -2 °C, and -4 °C (+37 °F,
+38 °F, +25 °F) control the heating power as follows:

Th > +3 °C heating is off

-2 °C < Th < +3 °C 50% heating power

-4 °C < Th < -2 °C 100% heating power

Th < -4 °C 50% heating power

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

Orion Interface Module

The Orion Interface Module is used to supply power to the sensor
transmitter and to provide two RS-232 communication ports. The RS-232
ports can be connected to the Orion LX MicroServer, computers, display
consoles, transceivers, and other such devices.

Under normal operation, the Orion Interface Power LED should be on
and the Signal LED should be blinking once a second indicating data
transmission from the sensor transmitter.

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Orion Weather MicroServer

The Orion Weather MicroServer uses a small computer board that runs
the Linux operating system.

The MicroServer has 512MB flash memory for datalogging and
operation.

The Orion 510 transmitter connects to the MicroServer via COM1.

The MicroServer has two RS-232 COM ports and an Ethernet port

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WeatherMaster 2000 Software (Optional)

WeatherMaster 2000 is a professional grade weather monitoring
software. This software package is designed for specialized markets that
require robust weather calculations, interoperability with computer
models, and data interfaces to other industrial systems. WeatherMaster
2000 utilizes Microsoft Access database for easy data access and
manipulation.

WeatherMaster communicates with the MicroServer over the Ethernet.

Please refer to the WeatherMaster 2000 user manual for installation and
operation procedures

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Weather Display Console (Optional)

The Weather Display uses “intelligent” touch-screen technology. With its
programmable microprocessor and abundant memory, the Weather
Display can display weather information, perform complex computations,
and store relatively large amounts of weather data.

The Weather Display communicates with the MicroServer on COM 2
over a serial connection.

The Weather Display is also available in a 19” rack-mount chassis and a
panel-mount configuration.

Please refer to the Weather Display Console user manual for more
information.

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

SECTION 3: INSTALLATION

Weather Station System Configurations

The Orion LX Weather Station can be installed in multiple configurations
depending on the communication options, power availability and viewing
options.

The above diagram illustrates a typical installation.

Installation Overview

1. Unpacking the Unit

2. Installing the Sensor Transmitter

3. Installing the Interface Module

4. Connecting the Sensor Transmitter to the Interface Module using
the sensor cable

5. Connecting the Orion LX MicroServer to the Interface Module

6. Connecting to Weather Display to the MicroServer

7. Configuring WeatherMaster to connect to the MicroServer over
the network

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Tools Needed

Allen wrench (provided with sensor transmitter)

Small straight blade (1/8") Screwdriver

Power Drill and 3/8" bit

Wire Cutter

Compass

Materials Needed

(See also Optional Sensor Mounting Hardware.)

Black PVC Electrical Tape

Plastic Wall Bushings

Mast: Height above structure: Minimum 5 ft., recommended 10 ft.

For Roof Mount

“Cold Patch” Roofing Tar

50' Guy Wire

Roof Anchor Mount

Guy Ring & Collar

(3-4) Eye Bolt Screws

For Wall Mount

(2) 4" Wall Mount Bracket Assembly.

(4) Bracket Mounting Screws

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Unpacking the Unit

The sensor transmitter comes in a custom shipping container. Be careful
when removing the device.

CAUTION: Beware of damaging any of the wind transducers located at
the top of the three antennas. Dropping the device can break or damage
the transducers. If the antenna bends or twists, re-aligning can be
difficult or impossible.

Unpack the Orion weather station and verify that all parts are included.

1. Standard system includes:

 Orion LX MicroServer

 Orion 510 Sensor Transmitter

 50 ft sensor cable + additional cable length if ordered

 Orion Interface Module

 (2) 3-positon terminal blocks

 Interface module power supply

 User Manual

 Two 6-foot RS-232 cable + additional cable length if ordered

2. Weather Display Console (Optional)

 Display Console

 Power supply

 6-foot RS-232 cable + additional cable length if ordered

 User manual

3. WeatherMaster 2000 software and user manual (optional)

Inspect all system components for obvious shipping damage (Refer to
“Important Notice: Shipping Damage” in case of damage).

Save the shipping carton and packing material in case the unit needs to
be returned to the factory. If the system does not operate or calibrate
properly, see Section 7: Maintenance and Section 8: Troubleshooting, for
further instructions.

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Installing the Orion 510 Sensor Transmitter

Site Selection:

Finding a suitable site for the sensor transmitter is important for obtaining
representative ambient measurements. The site should represent the
general area of interest.

The sensor transmitter should be installed in a location that is free from
turbulence caused by nearby objects, such as trees or buildings.

WARNING: To protect personnel (and the device), a lightning rod should
be installed with the tip at least 40 inches (one meter) above the sensor
transmitter. The rod must be properly grounded, compliant with all local
applicable safety regulations.

Installing the Mounting Adapter

NOTE: The sensor transmitter must be installed to an upright, vertical
position.

1. Insert the mounting adapter  in the transmitter lower side as
shown in the diagram above.

2. Turn the adapter firmly until you feel that it has snaped into the
locked position.

3. Align the transmitter in such a way that the arrow (at the bottom
of the transmitter) points to north (see North Alignment).

4. Tighten the fixing screw

 to fix the adapter firmly to the mast.

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North Alignment

To help the alignment, there is an arrow and text North on the bottom of
the transmitter. The transmitter should be aligned in such a way that this
arrow points to the north.

Wind direction can be referred either to true north, which uses the earth’s
geographic meridians, or to magnetic north, which is read with a
magnetic compass. The magnetic declination is the difference in degrees
between the true north and magnetic north.

Compass Alignment

1. If the sensor transmitter is already mounted, loosen the fixing
screw on the mounting adapter.

2. Use a compass to determine that the transducer heads are
exactly in line with the compass and that the arrow on the bottom
of the transmitter points to north.

3. Tighten the fixing screw on the mounting adapter when done.

Once the sensor transmitter is aligned to north, the transmitter can be
removed from the mounting adapter without loosing the north orientation.

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Installing the Mast

The sensor transmitter measures wind speeds of up to 115 mph (60
m/s). However, unless the mast is properly mounted to withstand such
high winds, this capability is useless. Please read these instructions
carefully to insure a safe and reliable installation. Mounting the mast and
the sensor transmitter should be comparable in scope to installing a TV
antenna.

There are three acceptable methods for mounting the mast to a roof or
building structure: Sloped roof mounting, flat roof mounting or wall
mounting. See Optional Sensor Mounting Hardware for more
information.

Location

Do not attach the sensor transmitter to a chimney or a TV or radio
transmitting mast or tower.

Select a mounting location that will allow the sensor cable to be routed
away from TV antenna cables and other data cables to avoid
interference.

Do not mount sensors close to power lines or telephone lines. For
normal roof mounting, the recommended minimum distance from power
or telephone lines is 25 ft. (8 m). Use extreme caution when working
close to power lines

Never route sensor cables in tall trees.

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Mounting Method

Choose the appropriate mounting method for the installation and obtain
the necessary mounting hardware. Refer to Section 4 for information on
optional sensor mounting hardware and accessories which are available
from the factory.

If the mounting hardware is not obtained from the factory, be certain to
use metal parts which are plated or galvanized to assure maximum
longevity.

Secure the mast to the roof, using guy wires with sufficient tensile
strength. The Wall Mounting Method should utilize a mast of no more
than 5 ft. maximum height, unless it can be secured with guy wires.

NOTE: The mast must be mounted in a way to reduce wind induced
vibrations to a minimum. Excessive mast vibrations will interfere with
proper rain sensor operation.

Routing Cable

Use plastic tie wraps secure the cable to mast. Be sure that one is used
at the mast base. Tighten the tie wraps securely and clip off any excess
length with a wire cutter tool.

Route the cable back to the Control Module. If mounting on a roof, route
the sensors through a vent or other opening into an attic or crawl space.

Avoid routing the cable near metal windows, metal door frames, metal
gutters, or on a metal tower.

Any mast or tower should always be properly earth grounded to minimize
electrical storm damage. The use of a properly grounded metal mast or
tower, however, does not insure protection from electrostatic discharge.
These items could become electrically charged resulting in damage to
the sensors and/or console. This could damage the system in the event
of an electrical storm. Use insulated standoffs (user supplied, see
Section 4) when routing cable to help avoid this problem.

CAUTION: There may be electric wires in the wall. We recommend that
you shut off the electricity in the room(s) where you are drilling.

For best results when routing the cable through the exterior wall adjacent
to the console:

a. drill a 3/8" hole though the wall (1/2" if combined with the temperature
sensor cable);

b. insert a pair of small plastic wall bushings (available as an option; see
Section 4) on either side of the wall (or, insert a wall feed-through tube,
also optionally available); and

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c. thread the cable through the bushings or tube.

Make sure that the exposed portion of the sensor cable that is beyond
the mast will not be blown about by the wind. Use insulated eye bolt
standoffs or other fasteners if necessary. (See Section 4 for information
on mounting options)

Note: If the standard 50 ft. cable provided with the sensor transmitter is
not long enough, it may be extended by splicing on an appropriate length
of 22-gauge, stranded, five conductor shielded cable with the same color
code. When cutting and splicing, insure good contacts, proper color
coding of the terminal leads, and a good seal. (A good solder splice, and
water proof insulation are essential; merely twisting the respective wires
together is not adequate.) Additional cable (Catalog No. 81545) and a
water tight splice kit (Cat. No. 81580) are available from the factory.

Once the sensor transmitter has been placed, route the cable back to the
Interface Module. Extra cable may be coiled up and placed behind the
Control Module.

Connecting the Sensor Transmitter to the Interface
Module

Using a #1 Straight Slot screwdriver, attach the wires from the end of the
sensor cable to the terminal block screws on the Interface Module as
follows:

Terminal Number

Signal

Color

1 +12 V RED
2 Ground White and Bare
3 No Connection
4 Signal Ground Green
5 RX Black
6 TX Orange

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For heated sensor transmitters, connect the brown wire along with the
red wire to position 1 and connect the blue wire along with the white and
bare to terminal 2.

Connecting the MicroServer

Using the provided RS-232 cable, connect serial port 1 or 2 on the Orion
Interface Module to COM 1 of the MicroServer.

Using the provided Ethernet cable, connect the Ethernet port on the
MicroServer to the network (router).

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Section 4: Optional Sensor
Mounting Hardware

Fiberglass and steel 10-foot masts are available for use with either Roof
Mounting Hardware Kit (Cat. No. 88002) or Wall Mounting Kit (Cat. No.

88003).

A 10-foot free standing tripod is also available.

Roof Mounting

The Roof Mounting Kit (Cat. No. 88002) is suitable for both a slanted and
flat roof installation. The figure and table below illustrates and describes
the individual parts. Items included in the kit are marked with an asterisk
(*). Individual parts are also available.

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Description Pkg. Ref Catalog No.

Mast, 10 ft. (steel or fiberglass) 1 1 88005 / 88004

*Universal Mast Mount 1 2 88010

Lag Screw, Roof Mast Mount 3 3 88020

1/4" x 4" (for shake roofs

*Lag Screw, Roof Mast Mount 4 3 88030

1/4" x 2 1/4" (for comp. roofs)

*Guy Ring and Collar 1 4 88040

*Cable Standoffs, Wood Screw 4 5 88050

Cable Standoffs, Nail-In 2 5 88060
(for masonry application)

Guy Wire Clamps, 1/8" 3 (not shown) 88070

*Steel Guy Wire, Galvanized 50 ft. 6 88080

*Eye Bolt Wood Screws, 1/4" x 3" 4 7 88090

Turnbuckles, 6" open x 4" closed 2 (not shown) 88100

*Cable Nail Clips 20 8 88110

Wall Feed Through Tube 1 10 88130

*Cable Feed Through Bushings 4 10 88140

Watertight Rubberized Coating 17oz (not shown) 83500

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Wall Mounting

The figure and table below illustrates and describes the individual parts
in the Wall Mounting Kit (Catalog No. 88003). Items included in the kit
are marked with an asterisk (*). Individual parts are also available.

Description Pkg. Ref Catalog No.

Mast, 10 ft. 1 1 88005

*4" Wall Mount 2 9 88120

Lag Screw, 1/4" x 2 1/4" 4 3 88030

*Cable Nail Clips 20 8 88110

Wall Feed Through Tube 1 10 88130

*Cable Feed Through Bushings 4 10 88140

Watertight Rubberized Coating 17oz. (not shown) 83500

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Tripod

Tripod Model T-1000 is designed to provide up to 10 feet of stable,
secure support for your meteorological sensors.

The T-1000 is constructed from welded aluminum and is powder coated
for appearance and longevity. The 15-pound tripod can easily support up

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to 60 pounds of equipment. An optional tie-down kit allows for additional
security in high-wind areas.

Set up takes less than five minutes. Simply insert the legs into the main
body and install the stainless steel retainer pins. Extend the mast to the
desired height and insert another retainer pin. Install the guy wires and
you’re ready to go!

Specifications

Capacity: Supports up to 60 lbs.

Shipping Weight: 17lbs

Shipping Box Dimensions: 63" x 8" x 8"

Tripod Model T-1000, Catalog Number: 88007

Tiedown Kit, Catalog Number: 88008

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Tripod T-1000 (Catalog No. 88007) Parts List:

Item # Description Qty

1 Body/Mast Assembly 1

2 Legs 3

3 Retainer Pins 4

4 Guy Wire Ring with 1
3 Wires and Turnbuckles

Optional Tiedown Kit (Catalog No. 88008) Parts List:

Item # Description Qty

5 Anchor Screw with Chain 1

6 Spring Clamp 1

7 Retainer Pin 1

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Section 5: Operation

Orion LX MicroServer User Interface

The Orion LX MicroServer comes with a browser user interface. The
MicroServer is configured at the factory with IP address 192.168.0.50.

Once the MicroServer is connected to the network, open an Internet
browser such as Internet Explorer and type in the following address:

http://192.168.0.50

If this IP address is already being used by another device, contact
customer support for more instructions.

When the Orion LX User Interface is accessed user will be prompted to
enter a user name and password.

The default user name is admin and the default password is also admin.

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Home Page

The Home page is an informational page that includes the station name,
firmware version, current time, serial number, and status.

The displayed time is the time generated by the real-time clock in the
MicroServer. Be sure to refresh the browser for the current time.

The MicroServer status is Running or Stopped. The Orion software starts
automatically on power up.

Shutdown

Click on the Shutdown button to stop the software and User Interface.
There will be no access to the User Interface after this button is clicked.
To restart the program, cycle the power on the MicroServer, and the
User Interface can be accessed.

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Latest Measurements

The Latest Measurements page displays the current parameter values.
Refreshing the browser will update the readings as needed.

Only the selected parameters in the Select Measurements page will be
displayed.

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Measurements Definition

Sample Timestamp

Definition: Time and date of measurement
XML parameter: mtSampTime

Windspeed

Definition: 3 second rolling average of 250 millisecond samples
XML parameter: mtWindspeed
Units: MPH

Raw Wind Direction

Definition: 3 second rolling average of 250 millisecond samples
XML parameter: mtRawWindDir
Units: Degrees

Adjusted Wind Direction:

Definition: Raw wind direction corrected for North
XML parameter: mtAdjWindDir
Units: Degrees

3 Second Rolling Average Wind Speed:

Definition: 3 second rolling average of wind speed reading
XML parameter: mt3SecRollAvgWindSpeed
Units: MPH

3 Second Rolling Average Wind Direction:

Definition: 3 second rolling average of adjusted wind direction reading
XML parameter: mt3SecRollAvgWindDir
Units: Degrees

2 Minute Rolling Average Wind Speed:

Definition: 2 minute rolling average of wind speed reading
XML parameter: mt2MinRollAvgWindSpeed
Units: MPH

2 Minute Rolling Average Wind Direction:

Definition: 2 minute rolling average of adjusted wind direction reading
XML parameter: mt2MinRollAvgWindDir
Units: Degrees

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10 Minute Rolling Average Wind Speed:

Definition: 10 minute rolling average of wind speed reading
XML parameter: mt10MinRollAvgWindSpeed
Units: MPH

10 Minute Rolling Average Wind Direction:

Definition: 10 minute rolling average of adjusted wind direction reading
XML parameter: mt10MinRollAvgWindDir
Units: Degrees

10 Minute Gust Wind Direction:

Definition: 10 minute rolling wind direction at maximum wind speed.
XML parameter: mt10MinWindGustDir
Units: MPH

10 Minute Gust Wind Speed

Definition: 10 minute rolling maximum wind speed.
XML parameter: mt10MinWindGustSpeed
Units: MPH

10 Minute Gust Time

Definition: Gust time stamp during the last 10 minutes.
XML parameter: mt10MinWindGustTime
Units: date and time

60 Minute Gust Wind Direction

Definition: 60 minute rolling wind direction at maximum wind speed.
XML parameter: mt60MinWindGustDir
Units: MPH

60 Minute Gust Wind Speed

Definition: 60 minute rolling maximum wind speed.
XML parameter: mt60MinWindGustSpeed
Units: MPH

60 Minute Gust Time

Definition: Gust time stamp during the last 60 minutes.
XML parameter: mt60MinWindGustTime
Units: date and time

Temperature 1:

Definition: One second temperature reading
XML parameter: mtTemp1
Units: °F

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Relative Humidity:

Definition: One second relative humidity reading
XML parameter: mtRelHumidity
Units: %

Wind Chill:

Definition: Calculated using temperature 1 and wind speed.
XML parameter: mtWindChill
Units: °F

Heat Index:

Definition: Calculated using temperature 1 and relative humidity
XML parameter: mtHeatIndex
Units: °F

Dew Point:

Definition: Calculated using temperature 1 and relative humidity
XML parameter: mtDewPoint
Units: °F

Degree Days:

Definition: Calculated using temperature 1
XML parameter: mtDegreeDay
Units: °F

Average Temperature Today:

Definition: Calculated using temperature 1
XML parameter: mtAvgTempToday
Units: °F

Degree Day Start:

Definition: Start date for degree day calculation
XML parameter: mtDegreeDayStart

Raw Barometric Pressure:

Definition: One second barometric pressure reading
XML parameter: mtRawBaromPress
Units: Inches Hg

Adjusted Barometric Pressure:

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Definition: Raw barometric pressure with altitude and offset applied
XML parameter: mtAdjBaromPress
Units: Inches Hg

Density Altitude:

Definition: Calculated using adjusted barometric pressure, temperature
1, relative humidity and altitude.

XML parameter: mtDensityAltitude
Units: Feet

Wet Bulb Globe Temperature

Definition: Wet Bulb Globe Temperature approximation
XML parameter:

mtWetBulbGlobeTemp

Units: Inches

Saturated Vapor Pressure

Definition: Saturated Vapor Pressure
XML parameter:

mtSaturatedVaporPressure

Units: Inches

Vapor Pressure

Definition: Vapor Pressure
XML parameter:

mtVaporPressure

Units: Inches

Dry Air Density

Definition: Dry Air Density
XML parameter:

mtDryAirPressure

Units: Inches

Wet Air Density

Definition: Wet Air Density
XML parameter:

mtWetAirDensity

Units: Inches

Absolute Humidity

Definition: Absolute Humidity
XML parameter:

mtAbsoluteHumidity

Units: Inches

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Air Density Ratio

Definition: Air Density Ratio
XML parameter:

mtAirDensityRatio

Units: Inches

Adjusted Altitude

Definition: Adjusted Altitude
XML parameter:

mtAdjustedAltitude

Units: Inches

SAE Correction Factor

Definition: SAE Correction Factor
XML parameter:

mtSAECorrectionFactor

Units: Inches

Rain Today:

Definition: Accumulated rain for the day in 0.01 inches increments
XML parameter: mtRainToday
Units: Inches

Rain this week:

Definition: Accumulated rain for the week
XML parameter: mtRainThisWeek
Units: Inches

Rain this month:

Definition: Accumulated rain for the month
XML parameter: mtRainThisMonth
Units: Inches

Rain this year:

Definition: Accumulated rain for the year
XML parameter: mtRainThisYear
Units: Inches

Rain Intensity:

Definition: Running one minute average in 10-second steps
XML parameter: mtRainIntensity
Units: Inches/Hour

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Rain Duration:

Definition: Counting each 10-second increment whenever droplet
detected, 10 second resolution

XML parameter: mtRainDuration
Units: Seconds

Hail:

Definition: Cumulative amount of hits against collecting surface
XML parameter: mtHail
Units: Hits/in2

Hail Duration:

Definition: Counting each 10-second increment whenever hailstone
detected, 10 second resolution

XML parameter: mtHailDuration
Units: Seconds

Hail Intensity:

Definition: One-minute running average in 10-second steps
XML parameter: mtHailIntensity
Units: Hits/in2 hour

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Network Setup

Network Setup page allows the user to change the IP address, subnet
mask, gateway, and DNS Server settings.

The MicroServer factory settings are as follows:
IP address 192.168.0.50
Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
Gateway: 192.168.0.1
DNS Server: 192.168.0.1

If the network subnet mask, gateway or DNS server settings are other
than above, the MicroServer settings must be changed to match the
network in order for the MicroServer to be visible to the network.

To change the MicroServer network settings:

1. Connect the MicroServer to a stand-alone computer (not
connected to the network) via a crossover Ethernet cable.

2. Change the computer network settings to match the MicroServer
settings shown above. Contact Network Administrator for
assistance.

3. Browse the MicroServer at http://192.168.0.50

4. In the Orion User Interface, click on Network Setup and change
the settings to match your network.

5. Click on Apply Changes.

6. Disconnect the MicroServer from the stand-alone computer and
connect it to the network.

7. Browse the MicroServer from the network to verify that the
changes are successful.

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Change Password

Change Password page allows the user to change the Admin password.

Date and Time

Date and Time page allows the user to change the MicroServer date and
time.

The MicroServer date and time is used to date and time stamp all
measurements.

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Orion Output

The Orion Output page allows the user to configure the type and location
of data output.

Station Name

Change the station name, for example, to reflect the station location,
company name or function.

The station name will be displayed on the browser top bar.

Serial Port 2

To output the raw sensor data on serial port 2 to other devices such as
the LCD Display Console, select Echo input from Serial Port 1 (default
setting).

FTP Output

The FTP output enables the MicroServer to send weather data files to
FTP servers over the Internet.

Enter the FTP URL, user, and password.

The URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the FTP server address or name
and it should end in /filename

Filename: The file name that will be uploaded to the FTP server with the
proper extension. If the output format is XML, the extension is .xml. If the
output is CSV, the extension is .csv or .txt.

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Chose the output format desired. The output format is dependent on how
the data is going to be used at the FTP server.

XML (Extensible Markup Language) is a data description file that also
contains the data. The XML file will contain the current measurements.
This format is useful for generating web pages containing the weather
data and for interfacing with other software programs.

CSV (comma-separated values) file contains the data separated by
commas. The field order in the record is based on the same order of the
selected measurements in the Select Measurements page. Two output
formats are available:

CSV-append data format will generate a file with comma-separated
records every 15 seconds without overwriting the previous data.

CSV-overwrite data format will generate a file with one (the latest)
comma-separated record. This file will update every 15 seconds and
overwrite the previous record.

Diagnostic Logging

Is set to Verbose Logging by default. The diagnostic logging is used by
Customer Service to troubleshoot problems with the MicroServer.

SNMP Output

SNMP: Simple Network Management Protocol. The Orion LX Weather
MicroServer has a built-in SNMP interface for communication with
network management systems.

Click on Show MIB file to view the MIB definitions and objects for the
Orion LX MicroServer.

Modbus TCP Output

The Orion LX Weather MicroServer has a built-in Modbus TCP/IP slave
interface for communication with industrial automation systems and OPC
servers.

All data accessed via (read only) input registers [Modbus function code
3].

Contact us for a complete Modbus point list document.

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Configuration File

The Configuration File page displays the configuration file and allows the
user to edit and apply changes.

All User Interface configurations are stored in this file.

Changes to the configuration file should be reserved for advanced users
and customer service.

If the file has been inadvertently changed, the Restore Defaults button
will load the factory default file.

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Select Measurements

The Select Measurements page allows the user to customize the
measurements (parameters) displayed and included in output files.

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Data Logs

The Orion MicroServer automatically saves a complete record of all the
selected parameters every minute. The data is saved in a daily record. If
a change is made to the list of selected parameters, a new file for the
day is generated.

The Data Log files are comma delimited text files. Each file has a header
with all the parameter names.

The data log file names are based on year-month-day-time format.

The MicroServer stores about three months worth of data. When data log
memory is full, the oldest file is deleted as the new file is stored.

Parameter Settings

The Parameter Settings page allows the user to enter station specific
data.

Altitude: Is the elevation of the station, specifically the sensor transmitter.
This setting will change the adjusted Barometric Pressure reading.
Altitude is set in feet.

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Barometric pressure offset: This offset allows the user to calibrate the
barometric pressure sensor to match a local standard. Barometric
Pressure Offset is set in Inches Hg.

Degree Day: For degree day calculations, enter the start month, start day
and reference temperature.

Firmware Update

Firmware updates can be made available on Columbia Weather
Systems’ web site (www.columbiaweather.com), or can be emailed
directly to the user.

Copy the file to a computer on the network. Click on the Browse button
and select the file. Click on Update Firmware to install the new file.

It is very important that the power is not disconnected from the
Orion MicroServer during this process. Do not attempt firmware
update during periods of power uncertainty.

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Diagnostics

The Diagnostics page displays troubleshooting information.

Start Orion

The Orion software starts automatically on power up. In the event the
software has been stopped click on Start Orion button to start the Orion
software

Stop Orion

Click on Stop Orion to stop the software. The user will still have access
to the User Interface after the software is stopped.

Restart Orion

Click on Restart Orion to stop the Orion software and then start it again.
This feature is similar to a computer reboot.

Reboot

Reboot button restarts the Linux operating system.

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XML Web Server

The Orion MicroServer includes an XML Web Server available for other
programs to access weather data.

The XML page address is:

http://192.168.0.50/latestsampledata.xml

With all the measurements selected, the XML file will be structured as
follows:

- <oriondata station="New Orion LX">

<meas name="mtSampTime">2008/12/02 17:33:45</meas>

<meas name="mtWindSpeed">2</meas>

<meas name="mtRawWindDir">148</meas>

<meas name="mtAdjWindDir">148</meas>

<meas name="mt3SecRollAvgWindSpeed">2</meas>

<meas name="mt3SecRollAvgWindDir">144</meas>

<meas name="mt2MinRollAvgWindSpeed">3</meas>

<meas name="mt2MinRollAvgWindDir">141</meas>

<meas name="mt10MinRollAvgWindSpeed">2</meas>

<meas name="mt10MinRollAvgWindDir">139</meas>

<meas name="mt10MinWindGustDir">130</meas>

<meas name="mt10MinWindGustSpeed">3.9</meas>

<meas name="mt10MinWindGustTime">2008/12/02 17:33:05</meas>

<meas name="mt60MinWindGustDir">115</meas>

<meas name="mt60MinWindGustSpeed">9.0</meas>

<meas name="mt60MinWindGustTime">2008/12/02 16:35:51</meas>

<meas name="mtTemp1">55.2</meas>

<meas name="mtRelHumidity">83</meas>

<meas name="mtWindChill">55.2</meas>

<meas name="mtHeatIndex">55.0</meas>

<meas name="mtDewPoint">50.1</meas>

<meas name="mtDegreeDay">5214.9</meas>

<meas name="mtAvgTempToday">52</meas>

<meas name="mtDegreeDayStart">2008/04/24 00:00:00</meas>

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<meas name="mtRawBaromPress">30.05</meas>

<meas name="mtAdjBaromPress">30.05</meas>

<meas name="mtDensityAltitude">-223.62</meas>

<meas name="mtWetBulbGlobeTemp">60.9</meas>

<meas name="mtWetBulbTemp">50.63</meas>

<meas name="mtSaturatedVaporPressure">0.4392</meas>

<meas name="mtVaporPressure">0.3637</meas>

<meas name="mtDryAirPressure">29.69</meas>

<meas name="mtDryAirDensity">0.0765</meas>

<meas name="mtWetAirDensity">0.0771</meas>

<meas name="mtAbsoluteHumidity">0.00058</meas>

<meas name="mtAirDensityRatio">1.00</meas>

<meas name="mtAdjustedAltitude">-42.8</meas>

<meas name="mtSAECorrectionFactor">0.96</meas>

<meas name="mtRainToday">0.20</meas>

<meas name="mtRainThisWeek">0.25</meas>

<meas name="mtRainThisMonth">0.25</meas>

<meas name="mtRainThisYear">21.00</meas>

<meas name="mtRainRate">0.00</meas>

<meas name="mtHailToday">0.00</meas>

<meas name="mtHailRate">0.00</meas>

</oriondata>

The field order in the XML file is based on the same order of the selected
measurements in the Select Measurements page.

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SECTION 7: MAINTENANCE

This chapter contains instructions for the basic maintenance of sensor
transmitter.

Cleaning

To ensure the accuracy of measurement results, the sensor transmitter
should be cleaned when it becomes contaminated. Leaves and other
such particles should be removed from the precipitation sensor and the
transmitter should be cleaned carefully with a soft, lint-free cloth
moistened with mild detergent.

Be extremely careful when cleaning the wind sensors. The sensors
should not be rubbed nor twisted.

Replacing the PTU Module

1. Turn the power off.

2. Loosen the three screws at the bottom of the transmitter.

3. Pull out the top of the transmitter.

4. Release the small white flap and remove the PTU module.

5. Connect a new PTU module (Catalog no. 9581), replace the top
and tighten the three bottom screws.

6. Turn the power on.

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Factory Calibration and Repair Service

Send the device to Columbia Weather Systems, Inc. for calibration and
adjustment, see Section 9: USER SUPPORT INFORMATION for more
information.

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Section 8: Troubleshooting

This chapter describes common problems, their probable causes and
remedies.

Problem Possible Cause Action

Wind measurement
failure. Both the
speed and direction
sensors are not
reporting correct
data

Blockage (trash,
leaves, branches,
bird nests) between
the wind
transducers.

Check that the wind
transducers are not
damaged.

Remove the
blockage.

Pressure, humidity
or temperature
measurement
failure.

PTU module may
not be properly
connected. There
may be water in the
PTU module.

Ensure the proper
connection of the
PTU module.

Remove and dry the
module.

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SECTION 9: USER SUPPORT
INFORMATION

This section consists of the following items:

1. One-Year Limited Warranty: Please read this document carefully.

2. Return for Repair Procedure: This procedure is for your convenience
in the event you must return your Orion for repair or replacement.
Follow the packing instructions carefully to protect your instrument in
transit.

Limited Warranty

Columbia Weather Systems, Inc. (CWS), warrants the Orion 510
Weather Station to be free from defects in materials and/or workmanship
when operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s operating
instructions, for one (1) years from date of purchase, subject to the
provisions contained herein. CWS warranty shall extend to the original
purchaser only and shall be limited to factory repair or replacement of
defective parts.

EXCLUSIONS

Certain parts are not manufactured by CWS (i.e., certain purchased
options, etc.) and are therefore not covered by this warranty. These parts
may be covered by warranties issued by their respective manufacturers
and although CWS will not warrant these parts, CWS will act as agent for
the administration of any such independent warranties during the term of
this warranty. This warranty does not cover normal maintenance,
damage resulting from improper use or repair, or abuse by the operator.
Damage caused by lightning or other electrical discharge is specifically
excluded. This warranty extends only to repair or replacement, and shall
in no event extend to consequential damages. In the event of operator
repair or replacement, this warranty shall cover neither the advisability of
the repair undertaken, nor the sufficiency of the repair itself.

THIS DOCUMENT REFLECTS THE ENTIRE AND EXCLUSIVE
UNDERSTANDING OF THE PARTIES, AND EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE
PROVIDED HEREIN, ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, PARTICULARLY THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANT

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ABILITY AND/OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE
EXCLUDED.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have
other rights which vary from state to state.

Return for Repair Procedure

1. In the event of defects or damage to your unit, first call the

Service Department Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm
PST, [phone] to determine the advisability of factory
repair. The Service Department will issue an RMA number
(Return Merchandise Authorization) to help us identify the
package when received. Please place that number on the
outside of the box.

2. In the event factory service is required, return your Orion

Weather Station as follows:

A. Packing

 Wrap the Sensor Transmitter in a plastic bag first.

 Pack in original shipping carton or a sturdy oversized

carton.

 Use plenty of packing material.

B. Include:

 A brief description of the problem with all known

symptoms.

 Your phone number.

 Your return street shipping address (UPS will not deliver

to a P.O. box).

 Write the RMA number on the outside of the box.

C. Shipping

 Send freight prepaid (UPS recommended).

 Insurance is recommended. (The factory can provide the

current replacement value of the item being shipped for
insurance purposes.)

70 Orion LX Weather Station

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D. Send to:

Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.
2240 NE Griffin Oaks Street, Suite 100
Hillsboro, Oregon 97124

E. C.O.D. shipments will not be accepted.

3. If your unit is under warranty, after repair or replacement has

been completed, it will be returned by a carrier and method
chosen by Columbia Weather, Inc. to any destination within the
continental U.S.A. If you desire some other specific form of
conveyance or if you are located beyond these borders, then you
must bear the additional cost of return shipment.

4. If your unit is not under warranty, we will call you with an

estimate of the charges. If approved, your repaired unit will be
returned after all charges, including parts, labor and return
shipping and handling, have been paid. If not approved, your unit
will be returned as is via UPS COD for the amount of the UPS
COD freight charges.

Orion LX Weather Station 71

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

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Reference

Glossary

Aspirating Radiation Shield

A device used to shield a sensor such as a temperature probe from
direct and indirect radiation and rain while providing access for
ventilation.

Barometric Pressure

The pressure exerted by the atmosphere as a consequence of
gravitational attraction exerted upon the “column” of air lying directly
above the point in question.

Celsius Temperature Scale

A temperature scale with the ice point at 0 degrees and the boiling point
of water at 100 degrees.

Dew Point

The temperature to which a given parcel of air must be cooled at
constant pressure and constant water-vapor content in order for
saturation to occur. When this temperature is below 0°C, it is sometimes
called the frost point.

Fahrenheit Temperature Scale

A temperature scale with the ice point at 32 degrees and the boiling point
of water at 212 degrees.

Heat Index

The heat index or apparent temperature is a measure of discomfort due
to the combination of heat and high humidity. It was developed in 1979
and is based on studies of evaporative skin cooling for combinations of
temperature and humidity.

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

Relative Humidity

Popularly called humidity. The ratio of the actual vapor pressure of the
air to the saturation vapor pressure.

Sea Level Pressure

The atmospheric pressure at mean sea level, either directly measured
or, most commonly, empirically determined from the observed station
pressure.

In regions where the earths surface pressure is above sea level, it is
standard observational practice to reduce the observed surface pressure
to the value that would exist at a point at sea level directly below.

Wind Chill

That part of the total cooling of a body caused by air motion.

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Unit Conversion

Speed

Kilometers per hour = 1.610 x miles per hour

Knots = 0.869 x miles per hour

Meters per second = 0.448 x miles per hour

Feet per second = 1.467 x miles per hour

Temperature

Temperature in °C = 5/9 (temperature in °F - 32)

Temperature in °F = (1.8 x temperature in °C) + 32

Distance

Millimeters = 25.4 x inches

Pressure

Millibars = 33.86 x inches of mercury

Kilopascals = 3.386 x inches of mercury

Pounds per square inch = 0.49 x inches of mercury

Standard atmospheres = 0.0334 x inches of mercury

Orion LX Weather Station 75

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

Tables and Formulas

Wind Chill Chart

In 2001, NWS implemented an updated Wind chill Temperature (WCT)
index. The change improves upon the former WCT Index used by the
NWS and the Meteorological Services of Canada, which was based on
the 1945 Siple and Passel Index.

In the fall of 2000, the Office of the Federal Coordinator for
Meteorological Services and Supporting Research (OFCM) formed a
group consisting of several Federal agencies, MSC, the academic
community (Indiana University-Purdue University in Indianapolis (IUPUI),
University of Delaware and University of Missouri), and the International
Society of Biometeorology to evaluate and improve the windchill formula.
The group, chaired by the NWS, is called the Joint Action Group for
temperature Indices (JAG/TI). JAG/TI's goal is to upgrade and
standardize the index for temperature extremes internationally (e.g. Wind
chill Index).

The current formula uses advances in science, technology, and
computer modeling to provide a more accurate, understandable, and
useful formula for calculating the dangers from winter winds and freezing
temperatures.

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Wind Chill Equation

WC = 35.74 + 0.6215 T -35.75(V

0.16

) + 0.4275 T(V

0.16

)

Where:

WC = wind chill temperature in °F

V = wind velocity in mph

T = air temperature in °F

Note: Wind chill Temperature is only defined for temperatures at or
below 50 degrees F and wind speeds above 3 mph.

Orion LX Weather Station 77

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

Heat Index

Temperature in °F

RH

70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135

0

64 66 73 78 83 87 91 95 99 103 107 111 117 120

5

64 69 74 79 84 88 93 97 102 107 111 116 122 126

10

65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105 111 116 123 131

15

65 71 76 81 86 91 97 102 108 115 123 131

20

66 72 77 82 87 93 99 105 112 120 130 141

25

66 72 77 83 88 94 101 109 117 127 139

30

67 73 78 84 90 96 104 113 123 135 148

35

67 73 79 85 91 98 107 118 130 143

40

68 74 79 86 93 101 110 123 137 151

45

68 74 80 87 95 104 115 129 143

50

69 75 81 88 96 107 120 135 150

55

69 75 81 89 98 110 126 142

60

70 76 82 90 100 114 132 149

65

70 76 83 91 102 119 138

70

70 77 84 93 106 124 144

75

70 77 85 95 109 130 150

80

71 78 86 97 113 136

85

71 78 87 99 117 140

90

71 79 88 102 122 150

95

71 79 89 105 126

100

72 80 90 108 131

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Dew Point

B = (ln (RH/100) + ((17.2694*T) / (238.3+T))) / 17.2694

Dew Point in °C = (238.3 * B) / (1-B)

Where:

RH = Relative Humidity

T = Temperature in °C

Ln = Natural logarithm

Orion LX Weather Station 79

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Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

Columbia Weather Systems, Inc.

2240 NE Griffin Oaks Street, Suite 100

Hillsboro, OR 97124-6463

Telephone

[phone]

Fax

[phone]

Web Site

http://www.columbiaweather.com

Email

[e-mail]

Version 1.04

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