Plastic Wind Speed Sensor with Modbus RTU Output – 3S-WS-MB-P
The 3S-WS-MB-P Plastic Wind Speed Sensor with Modbus Output is a small, economical anemometer for measuring horizontal wind speed in solar PV plants and outdoor industrial sites. It sends wind speed data through RS485 Modbus RTU, so it can be read directly by most dataloggers and SCADA systems. The sensor comes with a UV- and weather-resistant cable for quick installation.
Wind speed is an important parameter in PV monitoring because it affects module temperature and energy yield. It is also useful for documenting wind events that may impact structural safety or warranty discussions.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OF PLASTIC WIND SPEED SENSOR WITH MODBUS OUPUT
| Item Code | 3S-WS-MB-P |
| Sensor Type | Cup Star Anemometer (Reed Switch) |
| Measuring Range | 0,9 to 60 m/s |
| Accuracy | Below 5m/s 0.5 m/s and 10% of reading above 5m/s |
| Resolution | 0,1 m/s |
| Threshold | 0,9 m/s |
| Survival Speed | 60 m/s |
| Data Output | RS485 up to 38400 Baud |
| Communication Protocol | Modbus RTU |
| Power Supply | 12 to 30 V DC |
| Cable’s Length & Features | 1 m 3x2x0,22 mm² – LI2Y(st)C11Y Cable, UV and Weather Resistant |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C (Ice Free) |
| Dimensions | Ø 135 x 150 mm |
| Weight | 0,35 kg |
| Housing Material | ASA |
| Cup Material | ASA |
| Mounting Method | Pipe or Ground Mounting |
| Standard | Compliant to IEC 61724-1:2021 |
What Does the Plastic Wind Speed Sensor with Modbus Output Measure and Why Is It Useful?
The 3S-WS-MB-P measures horizontal wind speed (m/s). In PV plants, wind speed helps you:
- Understand how wind cooling affects module temperature and performance.
- Support reporting when wind gusts may cause mechanical stress or damage.
- Improve site diagnostics by adding a real wind input to your monitoring system.
Why Choose the Modbus Plastic Wind Speed Sensor Model?
Many projects want wind speed data, but don’t need a heavy, high-cost industrial anemometer. This model is ideal when you want:
- Modbus RTU output for direct connection to common PV dataloggers.
- Low cost and easy replacement for multi-site use.
- Plastic housing and cups for lightweight outdoor measurement.
If you need an aluminum, seawater resistant body, SEVEN also offers the 3S-WS-MB-A model.
How Does the Plastic Wind Speed Sensor Work?
The 3S-WS-MB-P is a cup anemometer. Wind pushes the three cups and makes them rotate. The sensor measures this rotation and converts it into wind speed.
Inside the body, there is a small magnet attached to the rotating shaft. Each time the shaft turns, the magnet passes a reed relay (reed switch). The reed switch closes briefly and creates an electrical pulse. So the sensor produces a pulse signal where:
- More wind → faster rotation → more pulses per second
- Less wind → slower rotation → fewer pulses per second
These pulses are fed into the converter box, where an internal electronic circuit counts these pulses, converts them, and calculates wind speed in m/s. Then the Modbus version sends the final wind speed value digitally through the RS485 bus. Your datalogger or SCADA reads that value via Modbus RTU registers.
Where is the Plastic Wind Speed Sensor with Modbus Output Commonly Used?
You will typically see the 3S-WS-MB-P in:
- Solar PV plants (utility, commercial, rooftop), as part of IEC 61724-1 monitoring.
- Small weather stations and environmental monitoring networks.
- Industrial sites needing reliable outdoor wind speed input.
- Agriculture and irrigation projects where wind affects operations.
How Should You Install and Commission the Plastic Wind Speed Sensor?
Installation is quick and easy thanks to its structure and plug and play design. To briefly explain:
- Mount on a vertical pipe or structure
Keep the sensor level and parallel to the ground for correct readings.
- Choose a clear location
Avoid nearby objects that block wind (walls, equipment, trees). Place it above typical obstacles if possible.
- Connect power and RS485
The sensor is plug-and-play. After wiring, it starts measuring automatically.
- Low maintenance
The plastic body requires minimal care. Clean cups if dirt buildup is heavy. For more details follow our article: Weather Station Installations for PV Plants: What Should You Know?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1- Is the plastic wind speed sensor with modbus output compliant with industry standards?
Yes. It is IEC 61724-1:2021 compliant, suitable for PV performance monitoring.
2- Is the 3S-WS-MB-P sensor compatible with my datalogger or SCADA system?
Yes, if your system supports RS485 / Modbus RTU, you can read wind speed directly.
3- What is the measurement range of the plastic wind speed sensor with modbus output?
The plastic wind speed sensor with modbus output can measure from 0.9 to 60 m/s, with survival speed up to 60 m/s.
4- Does the 3S-WS-MB-P include a cable?
Yes, each unit comes with a 1 m UV-resistant LIYYC11Y PUR cable. Other lengths are available on request.
5- Is there a heated version of the wind speed sensor with modbus output for icy areas?
The standard model is ice-free; SEVEN also offers a heated wind speed model for harsher climates.
6- What is the warranty period of plastic wind speed sensor with modbus output?
The sensor comes with a 2-year warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship.
7- What is the price of plastic wind speed sensor with modbus output?
3S-WS-MB-P sensor is available between 143 EUR and 260 EUR.