The SEVEN Rain Gauge has been widely used for monitoring rainfall in solar farms, agriculture, environmental research, and weather stations. Over time, we have learned a lot from users in the field, especially about what causes issues during long-term operation.
To address two of the most common problems, lack of immediate visual feedback and interference from birds, we have introduced two accessories that are simple to install but highly practical:
- A Rainfall Meter that gives a real-time display of rain accumulation
- A Bird Protection Device to keep the funnel clean and avoid blocked readings
How Can You Get Instant Feedback from Rainfall Data?
The Rainfall Meter is a compact digital unit that shows the total number of tipping pulses recorded by the rain gauge. Each pulse refers to 4 ml of rainfall. Multiply the number on the display by 4ml mm to get the accumulated rainfall.
Example:
If the display shows 30,000, then: 30,000 x 4 ml = 120.000 ml = 120 mm of rain collected.
This allows technicians and operators to quickly verify readings. It is especially useful for irrigation decisions and planning.
How the Rainfall Meter Works:
Rainwater enters the funnel and tips the internal bucket mechanism. Each tip sends a pulse. The Rainfall Meter is connected directly to the pulse output of the gauge, and it displays the number of tips as they occur. It is powered externally, so it remains active as long as your system is running.
Resetting of the Rainfall Meter:
If you are using the meter for daily measurements, simply power it off and back on at the start of each day. This resets the counter so you start from zero. It is a straightforward solution for daily or shift-based monitoring without needing a data logger.
How Do You Keep Birds from Blocking the Gauge?
One of the most persistent challenges in rain gauge installations, especially in open or agricultural areas, is bird activity. Birds tend to perch on the rim of the funnel, and that causes several problems:
- They block rain from entering during light showers
- Feathers and droppings contaminate the funnel
- Accumulated debris leads to false readings or even total blockage
Our Solution:
The Bird Protection Device is a lightweight, UV-resistant ring equipped with small vertical spikes. It fits around the top rim of the funnel and discourages birds from landing, without affecting the rain collection area.
Key Benefits of Bird Protection Device:
- Prevents birds from obstructing the gauge
- Keeps the funnel free of debris and droppings
- Reduces cleaning frequency and labor
- Helps maintain data quality, especially in high-soiling or unattended areas
Design Notes of Bird Protection Device:
- Made from durable, weatherproof material
- Easy to install, just one screw
- Fully compatible with SEVEN Rain Gauge models
- Can be removed easily when needed
How Do You Install These Accessories?
Both accessories are designed for ease of use and quick installation in the field. No special tools are required, and they can be retrofitted onto existing rain gauges without modifying the sensor body.
For the Rainfall Meter:
- Connect to the pulse output of the rain gauge using the provided pin-connector
- Mount the display in a location where it is easy to read
- Make sure the meter housing is protected from direct rain and sun exposure, although it is IP65 rated.
For the Bird Ptection Device:
- Fit the spiked ring around the funnel rim
- Use a single screw
- Check the ring occasionally for stuck debris after storms or bird activity
Why Do These Accessories Matter?
Rainfall data is only useful if it is accurate and consistent, and that depends on your equipment staying clean and calibrated. These two accessories might seem simple, but they address problems that often lead to downtime or unreliable readings in the field.
Whether you are running a PV plant, managing irrigation for agriculture, or maintaining an environmental monitoring station, these add-ons can help you:
- Reduce on-site maintenance
- Avoid misreadings due to birds or blockages
- Get quick feedback during field visits
- Extend the life of your rain gauge and improve long-term reliability
FAQ
Q: Can I add these to existing SEVEN Rain Gauges?
A: Yes, both accessories are retrofit-ready.
Q: Does the Bird Protection Device affect rainfall collection?
A: No, it’s designed not to reduce the funnel’s catchment area.
Q: Is the Rainfall Meter weatherproof?
A: It’s IP65 rated, but best installed under cover for longevity.
Q: How do I reset the Rainfall Meter?
A: Simply power it off and back on to restart the co