Topic: RM Young 54000/54200 SNOdar Snow Depth Sensors

[twcmaster]

Wow, surprised to just run across these on SI.  Anyone have any thoughts they care to share?

https://www.scaledinstruments.com/?product_cat=&s=snodar&post_type=product

https://www.youngusa.com/product/snodar-snow-depth-sensor/

https://www.youngusa.com/product/snodar-snow-depth-sensor-swe/

[DaleReid]

I had no idea, and the web site says it is coming soon.

Using ranging laser is similar to a porcupine project a few years ago with modifying a laser ranging construction instrument.  I think a few people did get one running, and may be able to comment.

One thing I recall from their efforts was it needed to be kept at a more moderate temperature to remain accurate.

RM Young wouldn't make anything that wasn't pretty rock solid, in my experience.  And I won't live long enough to see these things show  up on eBay!

[TheBushPilot]

It's LiDAR so unlike some of the ones Campbell Scientific have made in the past using sonic transducers this one is (solid state?) using light. Thus no moving parts and nothing to wear out. NYS Mesonet uses the SR-50 snow depth sensors and have to do a teardown and reseal every 3 years due to water intrusion or failure. Requires using a toxic sealer with PPE and ventilation. I'm sure maintenance is much more simple with the Young instrument. Price is marginally more than CSI's new SnowVue depth sensor with presumably way longer service life without maintenance intervention.


Cheers