I searched the forum for info on low cost lightning detector. Lots of information on Boltek lightning detectors but nothing on the low cost ones. Does a reliable low cost one exists? A search of eBay finds many low cost detectors. I see that AcuRite has a model 02020 Lightning Detector. I realize it is a very basic detector. But will it function as AcuRite claims? Is there a low cost one that will show what direction the strike is located?
AcuRite 02020 Lightning Detector
As for a low-cost, always reliable, directional-capable lightning detector, you're not likely to find any; unless you build one for yourself.
RE: the Acurite 02020 model, I bought one a few months ago, partly for comparison with an external/outdoor one part of a PWS system, partly for portable use aboard my boat while cruising.
So far (haven't had a lot of lightning producing storms this 'winter'-- it's going for 80F today...) the 02020 does detect storm lightning fairly reliably, seems to get the distances and counts reasonably accurate (by crosschecking with web radar and lightning displays).
However, indoors, where I usually have it near my desk (with a ton of radio devices present), it does pick up a few false 'strikes'. Those false indications usually come from operating nearby room (wall-mounted) light switches of the old 'smooth operating' mercury type, and from some appliances; all at random- sometimes a pickup, sometimes not.
The 02020 also sometimes picks up false strikes from my smartphone (when close- 18-36"), when the phone begins an intense data-type operation, like starting up the WiFi (2.4GHz) 'hotspot', or beginning a download.
Is the Acurite portable 02020 lightning detector worth a few bucks (~$44)? If you're going to be using it outdoors (it does work reasonably well indoors), away from common household electrical interference, I'd say yes. Just think of it as an adjunct to your own (presumably accurate) weather senses, in that it will pick up lightning and storm indications that may be near the limit of your own eyes and ears, or attention keeping. Especially if you're doing activities like outdoor sports (boating, riding/walking/running, golf, etc) that occupies most of your attention.