Precipitation Sensors — Rain Gages & Snowfall Adapters

No. OSI's DSP-based optical sensors require no field calibration. All-digital signal processing eliminates drift, and the sensors are insensitive to dust and dirt buildup on lenses. The APG gauge is recommended for a calibration check every two years, while other models operate unattended with no scheduled cleaning or maintenance required.

Yes. The LP-WIVIS and APG series are designed for remote, off-grid deployments with nominal 12 VDC power requirements compatible with solar panels and battery systems. Communication options include RS-232, RS-485, Ethernet, MODBUS RTU, and cellular modems, enabling reliable data transmission from unmanned stations in austere environments.

OSI sensors measure rain rates from 0.001 mm/hr to over 500 mm/hr, and snow rates from 0.03 to 500 mm/hr, with 5% accumulation accuracy and 0.001 mm resolution. The sensors operate across temperatures of -50°C to 60°C, making them suitable for environments ranging from Antarctic ice fields to tropical rain forests.

Yes. The OWI-430-RH, DSP-WIVIS, and APG series are compliant with FAA AWOS present weather requirements. OSI also manufactures FAA-certified AWOS systems and has supplied precipitation and visibility sensors to airports and aviation weather networks in the United States and internationally.

The HIPS (HIP-100) is an acoustic add-on sensor for the OWI-series that detects the distinct impact sound of hail and ice pellets striking a sensing surface. Optical techniques alone can misclassify solid ice particles as water droplets. The acoustic signal combined with optical data enables superior discrimination of hail, ice pellets, freezing rain, and snow in complex mixed-precipitation events.

Yes. OSI sensors support multiple communication protocols including RS-232, RS-485, Ethernet, MODBUS RTU, and optional cellular or satellite modems. The OWI-432 modular weather station accepts additional sensors for wind, temperature, humidity, and pressure. This flexibility allows seamless integration into existing AWOS, RWIS, hydromet, and environmental monitoring networks.