Weighing precipitation sensor rain[e]

The rain[e] pluviometer has a unique measuring mechanism which makes it extremely precise. Nevertheless, it's entirely automatic and low-maintenance.

The rain[e] uses a self-emptying collector which tips over when enough rain is collected, like many automatic pluviometers. However, it doesn't just count the number of times the collector tips. Instead, a high-precision weighing cell weighs each drop as it falls into the container. Even when rain is pouring, every drop counts. A thermometer is used internally to compensate the measurement with respect to the temperature. The self-emptying mechanism, the evaporation and the long-term drift of the sensor are also compensated. Inconsistencies in the weighing caused by shocks and vibrations are filtered.

The pluviometer outputs the precipitation amount, the precipitation intensity and can also output the rain/no rain event or status.

The default output is SDI-12. All of the following outputs are available, but may require rewiring or reconfiguring the sensor:

• pulse output (normally open contact), to count the rain or detect the presence or rain
• analog output 4..20mA
• analog output 0..2.5V or 0..5V
• serial output SDI-12
• serial output RS485 (ASCII proprietary protocol by Lambrecht, Talker ASCII protocol, SDI-12 protocol)
• Modbus RTU output on RS485