Vaisala PWD50 Technical data

Vaisala Visibility Sensor PWD50

www.vaisala.com

Dependable operation of automated observation networks is a must today. Maritime observing systems need to work in inhospitable environments and also meteorological institutes face tough productivity and performance prerequisites. The Vaisala Visibility Sensor PWD50 answers these needs with a mixture of robustness, dependability, versatility and reliability. The PWD50 measures visibility from 10 m up to 35 km.

Accurate Visibility Measurement

Calibrated with reference to a highly accurate transmissometer, the PWD50 uses the proven forwardscatter measurement principle to measure Meteorological Optical Range (MOR). The sensor optics are well-protected against contamination: the optical components point downwards and hoods protect the lenses against precipitation, spray and dust. This weather-proof

design helps sustaining accurate measurement results.

Versatility

The PWD50 architecture allows for easy integration to existing or newly designed systems in a cost efcient manner. The sensor can be mounted in many ways on existing masts. The electrical interfaces are in a single cable. Versatility is further enhanced with various options, such as pole masts, a selection of mounting

Features/Beneﬁts

Accurate, traceable

▪

measurement of prevailing visibility

Upgradable

▪

Versatile and easy to install;

▪

easy to integrate

Robust and dependable

▪

Weather-proof design reduces

▪

need for maintenance

adapters, power supply cabinets, and a modem for long distance communication.

The PWD50 can also be upgraded with present weather sensing capabilities to PWD52. The upgrade enables a wide range of valuable outputs including present weather, precipitation type, precipitation rate and accumulation. These complement the versatile use of the sensor.

Robust and Dependable

The downward-facing sensor hoods protect the optical surfaces from contamination, resulting in low maintenance needs and costs. The optional hood heaters prevent the buildup of ice and/or snow in the optical path.

PWD50 reports reliably meteorological visibility from 10 meters to 35 kilometers.

Solid Track Record

Thousands of PWD series sensors have been installed all around the world. They have undergone rigorous test programs. In the eld, PWD sensors have demonstrated very low failure rates. They have proved their robustness in the harshest climates and most demanding conditions, ranging from offshore to desert and from airport to roadside.

Technical Data

Visibility measurement

Operating principle Forward scatter measurement Measurement range (MOR) 10 ... 35000 m Accuracy ±10 %, range 10 m ... 10000 m

±20 %, range 10 km … 35 km

Electrical

Power supply 12 - 50 VDC (electronics)

24 VAC or 24 VDC for hood heater option Power consumption 3 W Options .

luminance sensor 2 W (24 V) hood heaters 65 W (24 V)

Outputs RS-232 or RS-485 (2-wire)

Three programmable relay controls (open

collector), visibility alarm thresholds and

delays conﬁgurable, fault alarm relay

0 ... 1 mA, 4 ... 20 mA analog current

Mechanical

Dimensions 199 mm (h) x 695 mm (w) x 404 mm (d)

(7.83” (h) x 27.36 “ (w) x 15.91”(d))

Weight 3 kg (6.61 lb.)

Environmental

Operating temperature Operating humidity 0 ... 100 %RH Protection class IP66

-40 ... +60 ˚C(-40 ... +140 ˚F)

Dimensions

69.5 cm (27.36”)

15 cm (5.91”)

4 cm (1.57

”)

40.4 cm (15.91”)

Accessories/options

Interface unit with power supplies 115/230VAC Pole mast Hood heaters for winter conditions Support arm for mast installations Pole clamp kit for mast top installations Luminance sensor PWL111 Calibration set PWA12 Maintenance cable 16385ZZ

19.9 cm (7.83”)

Electromagnetic compatibility

CE-compliant Compliance has been veriﬁed according to the following EMC directives

Veriﬁcation subject Standard Radiated emissions CISPR 16-1,16-2 Radiated susceptibility IEC 61000-4-3,10 V/m Conducted emissions CISPR 16-1,16-2 Conducted susceptibility IEC 61000-4-6 EFT immunity IEC 61000-4-4 ESD immunity IEC 61000-4-2 Surge IEC 61000-4-5

For more information, visit www.vaisala.com or contact us at sales@vaisala.com

In addition to meteorological observation networks, PWD50 also suits well for use in offshore operations.

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