Measurement ยท 5 min read
Power
Met mast loggers and sensors draw little power and usually run on a small solar panel and battery. A wind LiDAR typically needs considerably more, so its off-grid system needs careful design.
- Size solar and battery capacity for the darkest, coldest months, not the annual average.
- Allow several days of autonomy for cloudy spells.
- Consider a backup source, such as a generator or fuel cell, for higher-demand equipment.
- Monitor battery voltage remotely so problems are seen before data is lost.
- Aviation obstruction lights on tall masts often have their own solar-powered units.
Communications
- Cellular telemetry is common where coverage is available; check signal at the actual mast or unit location, and at height if needed.
- Satellite links are an option where there is no cellular coverage.
- Store data locally as well as transmitting it, so a link failure does not mean lost data.
- Set up alerts for missed data transfers and power warnings.
Security
- Fencing and lockable enclosures for loggers, batteries and remote sensing units.
- Anti-climb measures on mast bases where appropriate.
- Good relationships with landowners and neighbours, who are often the first to notice a problem.
- Remote monitoring, and cameras where the risk justifies them.
- Insurance that covers equipment for the full deployment period.
Lightning and earthing
Tall structures on open ground attract lightning. Lightning protection and a sound earthing system protect the structure, the instruments and the people who maintain them. Earthing is checked as part of installation and periodic maintenance.
Maintenance planning
Plan routine visits, typically every six months or once a year depending on the environment, plus a process for callouts when monitoring shows a fault. Keep a log of every visit: what was checked, replaced or adjusted. Advisers use this record when they review the data.