400-6400 Visibility Sensor

The 400-6400 Visibility Sensor is designed to monitor visibility conditions over a range of 20 ft-50 miles (6m-80km).

The 400-6400 includes both digital and relay outputs. Digital RS232 output at 300-38,400 Baud can be used to indicate the present visibility, provide diagnostic information, and provide access to the configuration and calibration options. The SPDT relay with configurable pull in and drop out set points can provide signals to a VMS or other optional user system.

This new sensors have been re-designed for applications which require high accuracy over an extended range of visibility. They are designed to provide both accuracy and reliability in a cost effective package. The 400-6400 now features ease of field serviceability. Applications include synoptic stations, lighthouses, highways, resort areas, as well as shipboard and other marine platforms.

Visibility is detected using widely accepted principles of forward scattering. A high output infrared LED transmitter projects light into a sample volume and light scattered in a forward direction is collected by the receiver. The light source is modulated to provide excellent rejection of background noise and natural variations in background light intensity. The sensors can asynchronously stream RS232 or RS485 visibility data at user configured intervals, or can be operated in the polled mode, outputting information only when asked. Visibility is also compared to the preset relay thresholds, so that when an alarm condition is reached, the relay output is switched. Visibility thresholds can be set to any value within the instrument range.

The 400-6400 sensors are assembled around a compact, light-weight housing, which can be installed on a simple pipe mast. They are constructed entirely of corrosion resistant materials for durability. The standard unit includes small heaters to prevent condensation on the optics. Hood heaters are available for areas where the sensor will operate in freezing weather. Transmitter and receiver hoods are designed to divert precipitation away from the optical paths. A calibration kit is available for field calibration. Calibration is possible under most weather conditions.