Topic: Recomendations for a precise, Rain Only Gauge

[RedMtnHydrology]

Hello,

I am looking for a rain gage that is automated, wireless, and can be precise especially in short, intense events. I only need rainfall/precipitation data, so I think the Davis VP2 (or vue) is overkill, but that level of precision and accuracy would be acceptable to me. I plan to calibrate with a CoCoRaHS manual rain gage (using the newer tropo which I have read some people have issues with, but within 7% of the NWS SRG is within my tolerances).

Any suggestions?

[CW2274]

I plan to calibrate with a CoCoRaHS manual rain gage (using the newer tropo which I have read some people have issues with, but within 7% of the NWS SRG is within my tolerances).

Using one rain gauge to calibrate another is something I'd avoid. Use a known value. Without getting too pricey, I'd get this..

https://rainwise.com/wired-rain-gauge

[Mattk]

You would be best using a calibrator provided by Noval, HyQuest, R.M Young also make one.

As you would be aware any tipping bucket has a variable accuracy dependent on the calibration variables and rain intensity. If accuracy is critical then maybe a storage gauge model could be used to also have a manual comparison?

Basically anything can be made Wireless and there would be other options using radar technology if you have a serious requirement other than a turn key off the shelf basic rain gauge.     

[CW2274]

Forget my suggestion. I thought RW made a wireless version.

[CW2274]

You would be best using a calibrator provided by Noval, HyQuest, R.M Young also make one.

Why spend $100+ when you can make your own for less than $10. Exactly why I did. Prices were ridiculous.

[Mattk]

You would be best using a calibrator provided by Noval, HyQuest, R.M Young also make one.

Why spend $100+ when you can make your own for less than $10. Exactly why I did. Prices were ridiculous.

For sure, just providing off the shelf options and if documentation is required for QA purposes etc then it is the price you have to pay

[Cutty Sark Sailor]

BTW ... Tropo on sale through end of year.... $59.99 
https://store.climalytic.com/tropo-gauge/

[RedMtnHydrology]

Yes! I saw that sale and jumped on it. Would have gotten the original until I saw that sale.

I appreciate the responses.
I might have to figure out the logistics on a wired set up, which aren't impossible, but certainty worth a little more money for me.
I will need to provide some level of QA certification, so may need to spend the money to get a real fancy water bottle with a hole in it, lol.

[Vasco]

I might have to figure out the logistics on a wired set up, which aren't impossible, but certainty worth a little more money for me.

OK, are these over budget?

https://texaselectronics.com/tipping-bucket-rain-gauges/

There is a data logger, too. And they come with calibration certificates.

[RedMtnHydrology]

Well, they originally were, but I think this is what will be required due to the need for accuracy and precision.

Is there an (relatively) easy was to add telemtry to this set up? From what I am seeing this is manual downloads.

[TheBushPilot]

I'd recommend either Texas Electronics or R. M. Young if you are going for accuracy/precision. They offer traceable calibration of their gauges as well. TE makes an 8" NWS spec compliant collector funnel if that's something you also are looking to satisfy.

Not sure how involved you want to be here but you can easily pick up a Campbell Scientific data logger used for around $100-$200. Something simple like a CR10X would suffice in this application I think. They're a bit dated but still calibrated. Pick up a serial to wifi converter and use CSI's PC400 data logger support software to communicate remotely. Would give you some autonomy.

Granted this assumes you have power and wifi available at your site.

May be overkill for your needs but that's my suggestion.


Cheers