**11/26/2002**

**SURFACE METEOROLOGICAL**

**OBSERVATION SYSTEM**

**OPERATING MANUAL**

**[Operations Safety Procedures]{.underline}**

There are a few potential dangers, which may be encountered while
servicing or maintaining the surface meteorological stations.

**Lightning** Standard SGP CART safety procedures prohibit outdoor
activities in the presence of cloud to ground lightning. These
procedures apply to all surface meteorological station servicing and
maintenance.

Lightning protection for the station is provided by a lightning rod at
the top of the tower. Sensor inputs are also protected by spark gaps.
The station is powered by batteries, which are kept charged by an AC/DC
adapter.

**Exposed** The rain gauge has exposed 120 VAC inside.

**120 VAC** Whenever servicing or maintenance is required for the rain
gauge, disconnect the AC power to the instrument prior to removing the
lid.

**[Corrective maintenance]{.underline}**

The Surface Meteorological Observation System, SMOS, is designed to
require a minimum amount of routine maintenance. A preventative
maintenance, system check, and sensor verification schedule is presented
below.

If the system does not operate properly or conform to the routine
checks, the following action steps should be taken.

1\) On-site check. The site operator should check for obvious problems
like battery voltage out of operating range (9.6 to 16 V) and loose
connections.

> If the system is not operating, try restarting by turning off the
> power and then turning it back on. The program is automatically
> reloaded on power-up. The internal clock will need to be reset by
> using the keypad in \*5 mode or the laptop computer.
>
> If one sensor is not operating properly, replace it using the
> Installation Manual as a guide. A spare of each sensor has been
> included for each five stations. When a sensor is replaced,
> verification will need to be performed and documented. The site
> configuration form containing the serial numbers for all parts will
> also need to be updated.

2\) Inform the instrument mentor. If the site operator is unable to
correct the problem, inform Michael Ritsche, the instrument mentor. Mike
may be contacted at:

Argonne National Laboratory

ERD Building 203

9700 S. Cass Ave

Argonne IL 60439

\(630\) 252-1554 Office

\(630\) 252-5498 FAX

\(815\) 756-4300 Home

<mtritsche@anl.gov> Email

3\) Contact the vendor. If the mentor is not available, contact the
vendor directly.

Campbell Scientific Inc.

815 West 1800 North

Logan UT 84321-1784

\(801\) 753-2342 Voice

\(801\) 752-3268 FAX

**[Depot Maintenance]{.underline}**

Some components that have been replaced due to malfunction or being out
of tolerance will be returned to the vendor and/or manufacturer for
service and/or repair. Normally this will be done after consultation
with the instrument mentor and/or the vendor. Many items can and will be
repaired in the Repair Lab at the Central Facility. All sensors will be
returned to the SGP CF and given to George Sawyer. He will either have
them repaired under warranty, repaired in-house in the Repair Lab, or
send them to the appropriate vendor. If a unit or system has to be
shipped to the SGP, ship to the address listed below. An ARM SGP
shipment notification form '**must'** be filled out and sent to SGP
before the shipment arrives. A link to that form is attached below.

> George Sawyer
>
> ARM SGP CART Site
>
> 309600 EW 28
>
> Billings, OK 74630
>
> \(580\) 388-4053 Voice
>
> \(580\) 388-4052 FAX
>
> <george@ops.sgp.arm.gov> Email
>
> <http://sdsops.arm.gov/shipping/shipnote.html> Shipment Notification

All returns will be evaluated in the lab and/or repaired. If the unit
cannot be repaired in the lab it will be sent to the manufacturer or
appropriate vendor. An RMA number must be obtained from the vendor. A
SGP PR must be filled out with all of the appropriate information
including the obtained RMA number. The PR will list the quoted repair
cost and/or a not to exceed cost. The PR must be signed by all of the
appropriate managers and then faxed to Laurel Chapman at Argonne
National Lab. When notified by Argonne that a PO is in place, pack the
unit appropriately and ship it to its repair destination.

> Laurel Chapman
>
> ERD Building 203 Rm# J013
>
> Argonne National Laboratory
>
> 9700 S. Cass Ave
>
> Argonne IL 60439
>
> \(630\) 252-2887 Voice
>
> \(630\) 252-9792 FAX
>
> [mailto:lachapman@anl.gov](mailto:lachapman@anl.gov) Email
>
> **[Packaging, Handling, and Transportation]{.underline}**

The original shipping boxes should be used to ship the product out if
available. The boxes for the wind monitor and the rain gauge have been
saved and should be used for packing these components for shipping. The
propeller will need to be removed from the wind monitor. Padding and/or
tape should be used to prevent the rain gauge bucket from tipping during
shipment.

Any other components should be placed in plastic bags, and packed in
sturdy boxes with adequate shock-absorbing materials such as packing
foam, Styrofoam, bubble-wrap, peanuts, or cellulose wadding.

Overnight courier is the preferred method of shipping.

Once the manufacturer, or our repair lab has repaired the item, an
inventory data sheet must be filled out placing it back into our
available spares. It is also suggested that the mentor, designated
inventory control person, and/or relevant technician be notified that
the item has been repaired and returned and is available for use.

**[Logistics]{.underline}**

The following expendables are used with the SMOS system:

> 1\. The Vaisala HMI31/HMP35 Temperature and Relative Humidity Meter
> uses 9V batteries.
>
> 2\. The RM Young 18810 anemometer drive uses AA batteries.
>
> 3\. A desiccant pack, CSI type DSC 20/4, is used in each enclosure.

The desiccant packs will require replacement approximately every two
months. The site operators should maintain an adequate inventory of this
item. Contact Laurel Chapman to obtain replacement packs when the supply
levels falls below one box.

**[Parts List]{.underline}**

Each SMOS consists of the following parts. Since the parts are
interchangeable, a Station Description form is kept for each station,
which contains the serial numbers of all components. The form is updated
whenever a component is changed.

CAMPBELL Item Description

[Part no.]{.underline}

UT930 10m Tower

ENC 16/18 Fiberglass Enclosure

CR10 Measurement and Control Module with

Wiring Panel

SM716 Storage Module

6234 SM716 Bracket Kit

PS12LA 12 V Power Supply with Charger and

Battery

SC32A Optically Isolated RS232 Interface

Special Vaisala PTB201A Digital Barometer

Special Mounting Bracket for PTB201A

05103-L RM Young Wind Monitor

UT018 Mounting Arm, 7 feet in length

HMP35C-L Vaisala Temperature and RH Probe

UT018 Mounting Arm and Bracket

UT12VA Radiation Shield for HMP35C

UDG01-L CSI Snow Depth Sensor

6924 Mounting Arm

6879 Mounting Bracket for UDG01-L

Special Novalynx 260-2500E-12 Electrically Heated

Rain/Snow gauge

Special Nova Link Alter Shield

**[Spare Parts]{.underline}**

Replacement parts have been included with the system for use when a
component or sensor needs to be replaced for repair or calibration. One
each of the following items is needed on site for every five stations.
As there are currently fifteen stations, three of each item needs to be
maintained on site.

CAMPBELL Item Description

[Part no.]{.underline}

CR10 Measurement and Control Module

CR10KD Keyboard/display

SM716 Storage Module

PS12LA Power Supply

SC32A Optically Isolated RS232 Interface

SC532 9-pin Peripheral to RS232 Interface

05103-L RM Young Wind Monitor

HMP35C-L Vaisala Temperature and RH Probe

UDG01-L CSI Snow Depth Sensor

Special Vaisala PTB201A Digital Barometer

Special Novalynx 260-2500E-12 Rain/Snow Gauge

**[Sensor Verification and Checkout Equipment]{.underline}**

The following supplemental equipment is supplied for system checkout and
sensor verification:

A Laptop Computer w/PC208W

CR10KD Keyboard/display

7026 9-pin Computer to 25-pin Cable Adapter

SC32A Optically Isolated RS232 Interface

Vaisala PTB-220 Digital Barometer

Vaisala HMI31/HMP35 Digital Temperature and RH Probe

RM Young 18810 Anemometer Drive

RM Young 18212 Vane Angle Fixture

500 ml Volumetric Flask with Case

**[System operation]{.underline}**

The SMOS system is designed to run unattended for prolonged periods of
time with a minimal amount of routine maintenance. The system will
automatically load the program from the storage module and start data
acquisition and processing at power up. The only operator intervention
required is setting the clock. This can be accomplished by using the
CR10KD keyboard/display in \*5 mode or by using a laptop computer and
PC208W. Refer to the CR10 or PC208W Manual for instructions.

**[Routine Maintenance]{.underline}**

**Every Two Weeks:**

> The following are required to perform the checks and preventative
> maintenance:

1\) A laptop computer with PC208W

2\) A CR10KD keyboard/display

3\) A soft brush (to clean rain gauge buckets)

4\) A desiccant pack

5\) One person

If equipment or sensor replacement is needed, the following additional
items may be required:

1\) Replacement equipment or sensors

2\) The Installation Manual

3\) Assorted tools, e.g., wrenches and screwdrivers

4\) Verification sensors - PTB-220 digital barometer,

HMI31/HMP35 temperature and RH probe, and 18810

anemometer drive

5\) A second person

The following servicing, maintenance, and checks shall be performed.

If there has been a communication problem, download the data from the
storage module to the laptop computer. Consult the Campbell and PC208W
Manual for instructions to download data. Record the date and time of
the download on the site log.

Visually inspect the system and all sensors for any signs of damage.
Observe the wind monitor for movement of the vane and propeller. Record
any problems in the site log and notify the instrument mentor.

Use the laptop computer to scan through input channels 1 through 8.
Check for reasonable values. A table of inputs and limits is given
below. If any value is questionable, record the observation in the site
log and notify the instrument mentor.

  --------------- ------------------------------- -----------------------
  Location        Contents                        Range \*

  1               Wind speed                      0 to 45 m/s

  2               Wind direction                  0 to 360 deg

  3               Temperature                     -40 to +50 C

  4               Relative Humidity               0 to 103%

  5               Precipitation                   0 to 1 mm

  6               Snow depth                      -10 to 1000 mm

  7               Vapor pressure                  0 to 10 kPa

  8               Barometric pressure             80 to 110 kPa

  10              Wind Speed (RPM)                0 to ??
  --------------- ------------------------------- -----------------------

\* Location 5 is one-second total precipitation in mm.

Location 16 is total accumulation in tips.

Snow depth measured only at temperatures below 10 C.

Set flag 7 high. Remove any debris from the rain gauge screen and/or
funnel. After disconnecting the AC power, check inside for mice nests,
etc. If the buckets are dirty, clean them with a soft brush (e.g., a
toothbrush). Manually tip the bucket 3 times. Check input location 16
for a count of 3. Set flag 7 low. Record results and time period during
which flag 7 was set high, in the site log. Consult the Campbell
GRAPHTERM and PC208 Manuals for instructions to set the flag and monitor
the inputs.

> **Note! If flag 7 is not set low on the completion of this test, some
> data will be lost.**

Remove any obstacles or debris from the ground under the snow depth
sensor. Trim vegetation growing below the sensor as needed. Record the
action in the site log. This procedure is currently not done.

Check and replace, as needed the desiccant in the enclosure.

See Appendix A for comprehensive procedures of the Bi-weekly checks.

**Every Six Months:**

The following are required to perform the checks, maintenance, and
sensor verification:

> 1\) A laptop computer with PC208W
>
> 2\) A CR10KD keyboard/display
>
> 3\) Assorted tools, e.g., wrenches and screwdrivers
>
> 4\) A soft brush (to clean rain gauge buckets)
>
> 5\) A desiccant pack
>
> 6\) Verification sensors - PTB-220 digital barometer,
>
> HMI31/HMP35 temperature and RH probe, 18810
>
> anemometer drive, 18212 vane angle fixture, and 500
>
> ml volumetric flask
>
> 7\) Two people

If equipment or sensor replacement is needed, the following additional
items may be required:

> 1\) Replacement equipment or sensors
>
> 2\) The Installation Manual

In addition to the checks and maintenance described above for two week,
perform sensor verification as described in Appendix B.

If any sensor is found to be out of calibration, it should be replaced
by a spare and returned to the manufacturer for recalibration.

**Every 24 Months:**

Once every two years the Wind Monitor should be returned to the
manufacturer for replacement and or inspection of the bearings and the
potentiometer.

**APPENDIX A**

**BI -- WEEKLY PROCEDURES**

**SMOS**

**PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES**

**Facility: EF**

**Frequency: Bi--Weekly**

**Mentor: Michael Ritsche**

The following procedures are for performing scheduled bi-weekly
maintenance on the SMOS sites. All results should be recorded on the PM
checklist.

**INSPECTION OF SITE GROUNDS NEAR THE INSTRUMENT:**

Visually inspect the site grounds around the instrument for hazards such
as rodent burrows, buried conduit trench settling, and insect nests.

Checklist response: No Problems Noted

Problem: See Comments

Problem: See CM Report

**VISUAL INSPECTION OF INSTRUMENT COMPONNENTS:**

**Tower Structure:**

Check that the mast is vertical and all tower base bolts are tight.
Check for any indications of broken or cracked tower structure
components. Inspect the lightning ground wire for tightness and damage.

Checklist response: No Problems Noted

Problem: See Comments

Problem: See CM Report

**Conduit, Cables and Connectors:**

Check that all the conduits on the bottom of the control box are secure.
Check all conduits from the control box to the sensors for damage. Check
all sensor wires inside the control box for tightness and damage. Check
all the connectors at the sensors for damage, water intrusion and
tightness.

Checklist response: No Problems Noted

Problem: See Comments

Problem: See CM Report

**Sensor Arms and Mounts:**

Check that the wind sensor arm is aligned N-S. This is done by using a
compass. Include the magnetic declination in the reading. Check the Snow
Depth and Temperature/Humidity sensor arms and mounts for tightness and
damage.

Checklist response: No Problem Noted

Problem: See Comments

Problem: See CM Report

**Wind Sensor:**

Visually check the sensor for obvious damage and that the sensor moves
freely. DO NOT lower the tower unless there is an obvious problem.

Checklist response: No Problem Noted

Problem: See Comments

Problem: See CM Report

**Temperature/Humidity Sensor:**

To verify the accuracy and installation of the HMP-35C sensor the
following tools will be needed.

1\. HMI31/HMP35 Temperature and Relative Humidity

> Meter, recently calibrated.

2.  Computer or CR10KD

3.  Portable Aspiration Unit.

Remove the sensor from the radiation shield and inspect, clean or
replace the humidity cap. Verify that the sensor is working properly
using the following procedures.

> The verification of the temperature sensor is done with the Vaisala
> HMI31/HMP35 T/RH meter. Mount the portable aspiration unit on the SMOS
> tower approximately chest high. Place the HMP-35C T/RH sensor and the
> HMI31/HMP35 T/RH Meter in the holders of the portable aspiration unit.
> Turn on the HMI31/HMP35 meter. Allow the sensors to stabilize such
> that the temperature and RH readings are changing by less that +/- 0.2
> Deg C or +/- 1% RH, then wait another 5 minutes before taking
> readings. The air temperature measurement is stored in the data logger
> in location 3 and the RH readings are stored in location 4. You can
> monitor this location with either a computer or the CR10KD. Compare
> the data logger measurement to the read-out of the HMI31/HMP35. The
> temperature readings should match within +/- 0.5 C. The resolution of
> the data logger measurement is 0.01 C. The RH readings should match
> within +/- 2 % RH from 0 - 90 % RH or +/- 3 % RH from 90 - 100 % RH.
> The resolution of the data logger measurement is 1.0 % RH.
>
> If the Bi-weekly check is being done at the Central Facility the
> portable aspirator is not needed. The SMOS site at the Central
> Facility has an aspirated shield. The HMI31/HMP35 Meter may be held
> near the intake of the aspirated shield. Take care to position the
> HMI31/HMP35 T/RH meter out of direct sunlight.
>
> **[NOTE]{.underline}:** If the probe or the T/RH Meter has been
> exposed to a temperature significantly different from the ambient air
> temperature and RH, it may take an appreciable time for the sensor to
> stabilize. They may require rapid waving before they will stabilize.

Test Results:

[Measurement]{.underline} [Cal Standard]{.underline} [SMOS
Sensor]{.underline} [Pass/Fail]{.underline}

Temperature \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Humidity \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**Temperature/Humidity Cap Change Scheduled?**

Checklist response: Yes

No

**Snow Depth Sensor: (not done at this time)**

Inspect the cable and connector for tightness and damage. Ensure that
the vegetation under the snow depth gauge is cut as low as possible.
Make sure that taller surrounding vegetation cannot be blown under the
sensor. Check that the bottom of the sensor is parallel with the ground.

Checklist response: No Problems Noted

Problem: See Comments

Problem: See CM Report

**Rain Gauge:**

After turning off and locking out the heater circuit breaker, remove the
rain gauge funnel and ensure that both the large and small funnels are
clear of debris. Check the wiring and connector for tightness and the
housing for debris and damage. Inspect all conduits and cables.
Re-install the rain gauge funnel.

Checklist response: No Problem Noted

Problem: See Comments

Problem: See CM Reports

**Digital Barometer:**

Inspect the wiring from the Data logger to the Barometer box. Ensure
that the intake tubes are unobstructed.

Checklist response: No Problem Noted

Problem: See Comments

Problem: See CM Report

**Desiccant Check:**

Check the desiccant pack inside the control box and replace if
necessary.

Checklist response: No Problem Noted

Problem: See Comments

Problem: See CM Report

**Laptop Recorded Sensor Readings:**

Connect the laptop computer and record the following readings:

Wind Directions: (degrees) range: 0 to 359

Wind Speed: (m/s)

Temperature: (degrees C)

Humidity: (%) range: 10 to 100

Pressure: (mbs)

Snow Depth: (mm) range: +/- 25mm(not done)

Also note the sky condition and present weather.

**Rain Gauge Tip Test:**

Set flag 7 on the SMOS CR10 to disable intermediate processing. Log the
time that flag 7 was set. Manually tip the rain gauge bucket several
times. Check location 16, TotCounts to ensure that the bucket tips are
being counted. Reset flag 7 and log the time that the flag was reset.

**Tip Test Times:**

Time flag 7 set: hhmm (GMT)

Time flag 7 reset: hhmm (GMT)

Check list response: No Probem Noted

Problem: See Comments

Problem: See CM Report

**Comments:**

Enter any appropriate and applicable comments for this PM activity.

**APPENDIX B:**

**6-MONTH CALIBRATION PROCEDURES**

**SMOS**

**SIX-MONTH CALIBRATION PROCEDURES**

**Facility: EF**

**Frequency: Twice a year**

**Mentor: Michael Ritsche**

**NOTE: Prior to all testing and verification, Flag 7 must be set high
to prevent false data from being recorded. This Flag should be reset
when complete.**

**1. 05103 RM Young Wind Monitor**

> A. Wind speed
>
> To check that the wind speed sensor is measuring properly, the
> following equipment is needed.

1\. 9/16\" wrench

2\. #18810 Anemometer drive

3\. A computer or CR10KD

4\. Two people

> Tilt the tower down to access the wind monitor. Refer to Appendix C
> for Tower lowering procedure. Remove the propeller from the propeller
> shaft and install the torque nut provided. The anemometer drive
> connects to the wind monitor body and the motor connects to the torque
> nut. Next, select one of the following RPM levels on the anemometer
> drive and start the unit. Wait for the RPM level to stabilize.

[RPM]{.underline} [RPM Reading]{.underline}

500 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

750 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

1000 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

> Compare the reading from the anemometer drive and the sensor output as
> read from the computer or the CR10KD. The RPM's measured by the CR10
> (Location 10) should be within +/- 1% of that indicated in the above
> table.
>
> B. Wind Direction
>
> Using the angle fixture and a computer or a CR10KD, check that the
> sensor output (Location 2) matches the direction settings determined
> by the angle fixture #18212. The angle fixture is inserted between the
> orientation ring and the wind monitor. Once the angle fixture is
> installed, make sure that the notches of the orientation ring, angle
> fixture and wind monitor all match up. Use the positioning arm to hold
> the tail of the wind monitor in the correct position. Rotate the wind
> monitor through the positions listed below and compare them to
> directions measured by the data logger (Location 2).

Quadrant Measured value

0 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

90 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

180 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

270 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

355 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

> The accuracy of this measurement is +/- 5.0 degrees, with a resolution
> of 1.0 degree.
>
> **NOTE:** **The absolute accuracy of this measurement depends on the
> exactness of the orientation of the sensor with respect to true
> north**.

**2. HMP-35C Temperature & Relative Humidity**

To verify the accuracy and installation of the HMP-35C sensor the
following tools will be needed.

1\. HMI31/HMP35 Temperature and Relative Humidity

> Meter, recently calibrated.

4.  Computer or CR10KD

5.  Portable Aspiration Unit.

Remove the sensor from the radiation shield and inspect, clean or
replace the humidity cap. Verify that the sensor is working properly
using the following procedures.

> The verification of the temperature sensor is done with the Vaisala
> HMI31/HMP35 T/RH meter. Mount the portable aspiration unit on the SMOS
> tower approximately chest high. Place the HMP-35C T/RH sensor and the
> HMI31/HMP35 T/RH Meter in the holders of the portable aspiration unit.
> Turn on the HMI31/HMP35 meter. Allow the sensors to stabilize such
> that the temperature and RH readings are changing by less that +/- 0.2
> Deg C or +/- 1% RH, then wait another 5 minutes before taking
> readings. The air temperature measurement is stored in the data logger
> in location 3 and the RH readings are stored in location 4. You can
> monitor this location with either a computer or the CR10KD. Compare
> the data logger measurement to the read-out of the HMI31/HMP35. The
> temperature readings should match within +/- 0.5 C. The resolution of
> the data logger measurement is 0.01 C. The RH readings should match
> within +/- 2 % RH from 0 - 90 % RH or +/- 3 % RH from 90 - 100 % RH.
> The resolution of the data logger measurement is 1.0 % RH.
>
> If the Bi-weekly check is being done at the Central Facility the
> portable aspirator is not needed. The SMOS site at the Central
> Facility has an aspirated shield. The HMI31/HMP35 Meter may be held
> near the intake of the aspirated shield. Take care to position the
> HMI31/HMP35 T/RH meter out of direct sunlight.
>
> **[NOTE]{.underline}:** If the probe or the T/RH Meter has been
> exposed to a temperature significantly different from the ambient air
> temperature and RH, it may take an appreciable time for the sensor to
> stabilize. They may require rapid waving before they will stabilize.

Test Results:

[Measurement]{.underline} [Cal Standard]{.underline} [SMOS
Sensor]{.underline} [Pass/Fail]{.underline}

Temperature \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Humidity \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**3. UDG01 Snow Depth Gauge (CURRENTLY NOT DONE)**

**NOTE: The grass or vegetation under the gauge should be cut short and
kept manicured to obtain accurate snow depth readings.**

To start this test set Flag 8 high. This is done either using the F8 key
while monitoring the input locations in PC208W or using the CR10KD. To
use the CR10KD press **\*6AD8** to set the flag. The flag will
automatically reset in two minutes. Once Flag 8 is high the UDG01 snow
depth gauge will start making measurements once per second for two
minutes. The snow depth measurement is found in location 17 in the data
logger, this measurement should be within +/- 25 mm of zero when nothing
is under the snow depth gauge. The snow depth gauge has a resolution of
0.5 mm. A cardboard box of a known height at least 2 feet by 2 feet
square is then placed under the gauge. The measurement with the box
under the gauge should show the height of the box within +/- 25 mm.

**4. 2500E Rain/Snow Gauge**

Two things need to be verified on this sensor. The first is that the
sensor records each tip of the bucket, and the other is to check that
the heater portion of the rain gauge functions.

> A. Rain fall
>
> The rainfall verification is accomplished with the 500 milliliter
> volumetric flask and plastic cup provided with the system.
>
> **Note this test should be started just after the even hour to insure
> that the system does not reset the number of counts during the test
> (This location resets every two hours).**
>
> Fill the volumetric flask to the indicator line and place the plastic
> cup in the top of the rain gauge. Pour the 500 ml of water into the
> cup and allow the contents to slowly drain through the rain/snow
> gauge. Using the data logger to measure the counts of the rain gauge
> the number of tips for 500 ml of water should be 25 to 27 counts; this
> value is stored in Location 16. This test requires that the amount of
> water used is precisely 500 ml. Once most of the water has drained
> from the cup, slowly pour the last of the water through the rain
> gauge.
>
> B. Heater
>
> To verify the operation of the heater in the rain/snow gauge, the
> following test should be performed. Place an ice cube in a plastic bag
> and hold the ice on the thermostat for 1 minute, and continue to hold
> in place while checking the heater (See Rain Gauge Manual in
> Installation Manual). Feel the heater element at the base of the rain
> gauge and ensure that it has started to get hot. The heater should be
> warm to the touch within 30 to 45 seconds after the thermostat has
> been tripped; the thermostat is set to trip at 37 degrees F.

**5. PTB-201 Barometric** **Pressure**

The PTB-201 barometer is located inside of the enclosure. A computer or
the CR10KD can be used to monitor the location where the barometric
pressure is being displayed (LOC: 18). Establish communications with the
data logger and monitor location 18 for barometric pressure in
millibars. Use the PTB-220 Digital Barometric pressure transducer to
read the current barometric pressure in millibars and compare the two
values. The two values should be with in +/- 0.5 millibars of each
other; the resolution of the sensor is 0.1 millibars. The barometric
pressure that is measured and recorded in the station (Location 8) is in
Kilopascals and

is 1/10 of the millibars readings used in the verification of the
sensor.

**SURFACE METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION SYSTEM**

**SENSOR VERIFICATION FORM**

**SITE ID:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
LOCATION:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

**Tested by:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
Date:\_\_\_\_\_/\_\_\_\_\_/\_\_\_\_\_**

**Started: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_GMT Ended:
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_GMT**

**1. 05103 Wind Monitor**

**A. Wind Speed**

**[RPM]{.underline}** **[Measured RPM]{.underline}** (LOC: 10)
**[PASS/FAIL]{.underline}**

**500** \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**750** \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**1000** \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

The measured RPM should be within +/- 1% of the motor drive RPM.

**Acceptable: YES / NO**

**B. Wind Direction**

**[Quadrant]{.underline}** **[Measured value]{.underline}** (LOC: 2)
**[PASS/FAIL]{.underline}**

0 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

90 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

180 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

270 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

355 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

The accuracy of this measurement is +/- 5.0 degrees, with a resolution
of 1.0 degree.

**Acceptable: YES / NO**

**2. HMP-35C Temperature & Relative Humidity**

**[Measurement]{.underline} [Cal Standard]{.underline} [SMOS
Sensor]{.underline} [Pass/Fail]{.underline}**

**Temperature \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

**Humidity \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

(Temperature readings are in LOC: 3, RH in LOC:4)

The temp readings once stabilized should match within +/- 0.5 C. The
resolution of the data logger measurement is 0.01 C.

The RH readings once stabilized should match within +/- 2 % RH from 0 -
90 % RH, +/- 3 % RH from 90 - 100 % RH. The resolution of the
measurement is 1.0 % RH.

**Acceptable: YES / NO**

**3. UDG01 Snow Depth Gauge (not done at this time)**

(LOC: 17)

**Object Height Measured**:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
**UDG01**:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

This measurement should be within +/- 25 mm.

**Acceptable: YES / NO**

**4. 2500E Rain/Snow Gauge**

**A. Rain, 500 ml should produce 25 to 27 tips**

**Number of tips recorded**:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (LOC: 16)

**Acceptable: YES / NO**

**B. Heater**

**Acceptable: YES / NO**

**5. Barometric Pressure**

**PTB-220 Reading:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

**PTB-201 Reading:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_** (LOC: 8)

The readings should agree within +/- 0.05 kPa or 0.5 mb.

**Acceptable: YES / NO**

**6. Comments:**

**APPENDIX C:**

# 10 METER TOWER OPERATION PROCEDURE

**SMOS**

**10-METER TOWER OPERATION PROCEDURE**

**Facility: EF**

**Frequency: As required**

**Mentor: Michael Ritsche**

**NOTE: DO NOT LOWER the 10-meter tower if the wind gusts are in excess
of 12 meters per second (26.8 miles per hour).** High winds can overcome
the counter balance weights and cause the tower to lower at excessive
speed.

**NOTE: DO NOT LOWER the 10-meter tower if there is visible cloud to
ground lightning.** Lightning can strike miles ahead of a thunderstorm
and the tower is typically the tallest object in the immediate vicinity.

> To lower the 10-meter tower, the following equipment is needed.

1.  Two ¾ \" wrenches

2.  Hard hats and safety glasses

3.  Cinderblock

4.  Two people

5.  Gloves when working with rope

Using the laptop, monitor the wind speed for several minutes and ensure
that it never gusts above 12 meters per second.

NOTE: Hardhats must be in place before tower activity begins.

To Lower:

Loosen and remove the lock nut from the bolt with 3/4\" wrenches.

Remove the bolt from the beam and bracket and the bracket will then be
out of the way for tower lowering.

Untie and unwrap the rope and place the cinderblock where the top of
tower will be when it is down.

Pull the rope until the top of the tower is in a comfortable working
position and secure the rope to the cinder block. Perform necessary PM
work.

To Raise:

Untie the rope from the cinderblock and use it to slowly return the
tower to an upright position.

Reinstall the bracket and bolt then tighten the lock nut with 3/4\"
wrenches.

Rewrap and secure the rope to the tower. Place the cinderblock back in
its proper position at the base of the tower.

**SMOS**

**OKMULGEE TOWER OPERATION PROCEDURE**

**Facility: EF**

**Frequency: As required**

**Mentor: Michael Ritsche**

**NOTE: DO NOT CLIMB the tower if the wind gusts are in excess of 12
meters per second (26.8 miles per hour).** High winds can cause the
tower to move making it unsafe to walk on the top platform.

**NOTE: DO NOT CLIMB the tower if there is visible cloud to ground
lightning or if you hear thunder.** Lightning can strike miles ahead of
a thunderstorm and the tower is the tallest object in the immediate
vicinity.

NOTE: Contact the Central Facility Safety Officer for tower access
authorization prior to climbing the Okmulgee tower.

> To operate the tower instrument booms, the following equipment is
> needed.

1.  Large standard screwdriver

2.  Safety Harnesses and Lanyards

3.  At least **two** people

4.  Hard hats and safety glasses

5.  Disposable gloves and disposable coveralls

Using the laptop, monitor the wind speed for several minutes and ensure
that it never gusts above 12 meters per second.

One person must remain on the ground and must wear a hard hat when
someone is climbing or working on the tower.

Anyone who is working on the tower and is below someone else must also
wear a hard hat.

Inspect the Safety Harness for excessive wear or damage. The Safety
Harness should be properly adjusted to properly fit the person wearing
it and the lanyard must be secured to a tower vertical leg before boom
operations begin. A Lanyard must not be secured to the horizontal
members of the tower because they can come loose.

With a large screwdriver, loosen the eyebolts that secure the boom.

When the eyebolts are loose, remove the bird deterrent strip from the
boom by releasing the hand clamp and allowing the strip to hang from the
safety rope that is attached to the strip. Mark a line on the boom at
the edge of the roller block.

Firmly grasp underneath the boom and lift upwards slightly to remove
tension of the block rollers: pull inward until instruments are in a
comfortable working position. Perform the necessary PM.

Extend the boom back to the operating position by grasping underneath
the boom while pushing outward until the mark on the boom is in the
correct position.

Tighten eyebolts (snugly only, not extremely tight, to avoid damage)
with large screwdriver and reinstall the bird deterrent strip, securing
it with the hand clamp.