OTT Hydrometry is enhancing its reputation as maker of the world's most reliable, versatile, and durable precipitation gauges, even under the most demanding environmental conditions. The OTT precipitation gauge came out on top in recent testing by several U.S. government agencies. The U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) selected the OTT gauge for use in key airport facilities around the country. Precipitation data gathered at airports is crucial to the accuracy of the nation's weather monitoring and forecasting network.
In addition, the USGS has completed an extensive testing program to assist the National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) in determining which precipitation gauge is most appropriate to use as the replacement for its National Trends Network of monitoring devices, at more than 250 sites. The NADP is seeking a more reliable precipitation gauge for new monitoring sites and to replace existing gauges. The OTT gauge performed very well during the testing, prompting the statement: "The OTT Pluvio proved to be the most reliable gauge in Phase I and Phase II testing, operating trouble free over the duration of the study."
OTT gauges measure all forms of precipitation, including snow, sleet, and freezing rain, through the use of a precision scale and temperature sensors. The gauges being placed at airports feed data directly to the Automated Surface Observation System (ASOS), a suite of sensors that measures, collects, and broadcasts weather data to help prepare and monitor weather forecasts.
The NWS performed extensive testing before choosing the OTT precipitation gauge. Gauges had to perform perfectly in hurricane force winds of 80-120 mph and following a 20,000-volt shock. They also had to return to normal operation within two hours of a rapid temperature drop from 70?F to -70?F. Perhaps most impressive, gauges were performance tested at -60?F, about 30? colder than the minimum for precipitation to occur. The NWS was especially impressed that OTT gauges remained calibrated without regular maintenance. Why such rigorous testing? The NWS wanted a gauge that would perform reliably in a wide variety of climates with virtually no maintenance. Only the OTT gauge proved itself worthy.
OTT precipitation gauges use the weighing principle to deliver reliable results under virtually all environmental conditions. Unlike traditional tipping bucket gauges, OTT "weighing" gauges measure all types of precipitation using a high-resolution, electronic balance system. The Pluvio measures precipitation quantity and intensity to create a more complete and accurate weather record. Even extremely fine precipitation, such as light drizzle, mist, and fog, is recorded. Frozen precipitation is recorded with far greater accuracy than with tipping buckets, which can under-report snowfall by 20-30%.
OTT gauges are easy and affordable to install, operate, and maintain. They automatically self calibrate, and can operate continuously from solar power or a single 12-volt battery.
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