Frequently Asked Questions: Wind Energy
What is the procedure for orienting my wind sensor to the cardinal directions, so that the wind direction readings are correct?
After installing the mounting pipe, place the orientation ring, followed by the wind sensor on the mounting pipe. Orient the junction box to the south, and tighten the band clamps on the orientation ring and mounting post. Final sensor orientation is done after the datalogger has been programmed to measure wind direction as described in Appendix A of the Wind Monitor manual. (Michelle can you hot – link to Appendix A of this manual?)
We have a RM Young marine anemometer with a cable that is about 13' long. We would like to extend the cable another 20 feet or so. Do you sell a separate extension cable for the anemometer?
We do not sell an extension cable. We do sell a replacement cable which is CSI model number 05106CBL-L that can be built to the desired length. This replacement cable has a connector that mates with the connector at the end of the 3 foot cable attached to the 05106 Marine Wind Monitor.
Can the wind monitor be used without your datalogger?
Yes, but some electronic measurement, display, or recording device will be needed. A schematic for the wind monitor may be found in Appendix B of the manual. R.M. Young company at YoungUSA.com offers several display devices.
What is the power consumption (mA) of the 05103-L, 05305-L, and 05106-L anemometers?
The short answer is less than 0.01 mA. The wind speed signal requires no power. The wind direction portion of the sensor only uses a maximum of 0.5 mA when excited with 5 vdc and then it is only on for 0.016 seconds every measurement. When the wind direction is measured every second (typical), then the average current drain is less than 0.01 mA.
If I replace an existing wind set with the wind monitor, will I have to change more than the multiplier and offset in the datalogger program?
The measurement instructions will likely remain the same but in addition to the multiplier and offset, the type of pulse may change for the wind speed and the excitation voltage may change for the wind direction. The manual easily explains how the logger needs to be programmed.
What is the reliability rating of this instrument?
The instrument is guaranteed for two years.
