Wind is probably one of the most measured meteorological parameters and is caused by differences in barometric pressure. When a difference in barometric pressure exists, the air is accelerated from higher to lower pressure. On a rotating planet the air will be deflected by the Coriolis effect, except exactly on the equator. Globally, the two major driving factors of large scale winds (the atmospheric circulation) are the differential heating between the equator and the poles (difference in absorption of solar energy leading to buoyancy forces) and the rotation of the planet.

Wind Measurement
An anemometer is an instrument for measuring wind speed and is a common weather station instrument. The term is derived from the Greek word anemos, meaning wind. The first known description of an anemometer was given by Leon Battista Alberti around the year 1450.

Today, wind sensors or anemometers can be divided into two distinct groups, upper air measurement and sensors for the measurement of surface wind. Observator offers a comprehensive range of sensors for surface wind speed and direction measurement.

OMC-116
The OMC-116 is a ultrasonic wind sensor based on the time of flight theory. The unit is provided with industrial standard NMEA0183 output and can optionally be provided with 4.20 mA signals. The robust design in sea worthy alu and stainless steel as well the standard available heating makes this unit ideal for the hardest environments. The standard bracket with integrated junction box makes this unit easy to install.

Features:

• High accuracy maintenance free sensor
• Range 0 – 75 m/s
• Fitted with an integrated heater (240 Watts, controlled separately)
• Power supply through display (OMC-138/139) possible
• Supplied with calibration certificate
• Easy to install
• Integrated junction box
• Standard NMEA0183 output, RS422 (baud rate user selectable)
• Optional 4..20 mA outputs available