MODEL 525
TIPPING BUCKET RAIN GAUGE TRANSMITTER
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
A clear and unobstructed mounting location is necessary to obtain accurate rainfall readings.
This transmitter has provisions for mounting two ways, surface mounting and mast mounting. Surface mounting is recommended where possible. The transmitter housing MUST be mounted in a LEVEL position and in a location free from vibration. If mast mounted, make sure that the mast is properly guyed so that vibration in high winds is kept to a minimum.
THE FOLLOWING IS VERY IMPORTANT:
After the final transmitter installation has been made, remove the top gold funnel portion of the transmitter and observe the black tipping bucket. It should NOT (repeat NOT) be held in a dead center position by the magnetic attraction of the bucket magnet and the hermetically sealed magnetic switch. Press either end of the bucket down against the stop to be sure that it is not centered.
The transmitter to indicator connecting cable may be either shortened or lengthened as required.
The funnel and tipping bucket mechanism should be cleaned periodically. An accumulation of dirt, bugs, etc. on the tipping bucket will adversely affect the calibration.
FIELD CALIBRATION
Absolutely accurate calibration can be obtained only with laboratory equipment, but an approximate field check can be easily made. The tipping bucket mechanism is a simple and highly reliable device. The transmitter must be located in a clear area, away from trees, buildings, etc. It must also be mounted level. Accurate readings will not be obtained unless the transmitter is mounted in a level position. The mechanism must be clean. Any accumulation of foreign material, dust, etc. will alter the calibration of this unit. The transmitter must be calibrated with the rate of flow of water through the tipping bucket mechanism under control. At least 36 seconds should be allowed to fill one side of the tipping bucket. This represents a maximum flow rate of on inch of rain per hour. If the flow rate is increased, then the instrument will read low (if properly calibrated). Decreasing the rate of flow will not materially affect the calibration. The reason for this is obvious if the tipping bucket assembly is observed when the weight if this water starts to tip the bucket. Some time is required for the bucket to tip (a few milliseconds). During the first 50% of this time, water flows into the empty bucket. The amount of water flowing during the first 50% of the time is error, the faster the flow rate, the greater the error. Now at flow rates of one inch per hour (100 bucket fillings) or less, the water actually drips into the bucket rather than flowing. Under this condition, the bucket tips between drips, and no error water is added to a full moving bucket.
TO CHECK CALIBRATION:
A field calibration kit is available from Texas Electronics, Inc. Model No.
