Rain Tracker Rain Gage - Model RG-10

Like a Tipping Bucket, But Nearly Indestructible, and a Hundred Times More Sensitive

At last, a maintenance-free
alternative to the tipping bucket

Modes

The RG-10 includes a DIP switch that allows it to be set up for the mode of operation that best matches the application.  The DIP switch sets the mode, the nature of the output, and the function of the auxiliary output.

• Tipping Bucket Emulation-- Resolutions of 0.01", 0.001", 0.0001", 0.2 mm, 0.01 mm.  In this mode, the open-collector output pulses on when the specified level of accumulation has been reached.
• Condensation / Frost Sensing  Output may be set to turn on when an adjustable level of condensation or frost has accumulated on the sensor.
• "It's Raining"-- Turns on an open collector output at a switch selectable rainfall rate. Can be set to trigger the output at the first sign of rain, or at a preset rainflow rate threshold.  High current output capability  (500 mA), so you can drive a relay directly.
• Wiper control-- Outputs control wiper high and low speed. The sensor is not mounted on the windshield, so it can be used in specialty vehicles with thick windshields or in other specialty applications.  Perfect for controlling the wipers of ships, boats, or other marine applications.
• Irrigation Control-- Parameters are set in software, so the watering profile is whatever is required.  Unlike conventional absorbing-disk style irrigation controls, the RG-10 measures the rainfall rate as well as total accumulation.  No more watering during a downpour!
• Drop Detection-- In this mode, the RG-10 produces a pulse for each drop detected.  You may then interpret the data however you see fit.

This picture shows the bottom of the Rain Gage circuit board, mounted in the lens. The DIP switch programs the mode, and connections are made with convenient screw terminals.

Other modes and applications may be accommodated.  Email is us at info@rainsensors.com if you have a question about a specific application.

Features

• Maintenance free
• Compact-- about the size of a tennis ball
• DIP switch programs the function and outputs
• Extremely sensitive. The sophisticated circuitry and DSP algorithms count and totalize individual raindrops. If you need something to detect the first raindrop, this can be your solution.
• Internal heater for cold weather applications
• 9 - 35VDC Operation
• Two Open collector outputs
• No mechanical parts.  It is not affected by jostling and motion.  Can be completely mobile, and mounted in  any orientation
• Round sensing surface is essentially self-cleaning
• No exposed conductors to corrode.  No openings for bugs to crawl into or for spiders to build nests.  The Rain Gage compensates for surface grime or other degradation, so in most cases no maintenance is needed
• Daylight and temperature sensing
• Optical rain sensor can also detect other liquids