# Accessing the Data

### Overview

3D-PAWS stations transmit environmental data through cloud services for viewing, analysis, and integration into observation systems.

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### Data Flow

Sensors → Data Logger → Network → CHORDS → Grafana

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### Viewing Data

| Platform | Purpose            | Key Features                                                  |
| -------- | ------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------- |
| CHORDS   | Storage and access | Time-series data, API endpoints, external integration         |
| Grafana  | Visualization      | Real-time dashboards, historical analysis, customizable views |

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### Common Tasks

* verify data is being received
* check timestamps and update frequency
* review sensor values against expected ranges
* confirm consistent data updates

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### Data Quality Checks

Compare observations to expected conditions:

| Sensor      | Expected Behavior                     |
| ----------- | ------------------------------------- |
| Temperature | Within local diurnal range            |
| Pressure    | Consistent with nearby stations       |
| Rainfall    | Matches observed precipitation events |
| Wind        | Reasonable speeds and directions      |

→ See [**Site Selection**](https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/deploying-3d-paws/site-selection) for siting-related issues.

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### Troubleshooting Data Issues

If data is missing or incorrect:

1. check data logger connectivity
2. verify power system (battery and solar)
3. inspect sensor connections
4. confirm configuration settings

→ See [**Troubleshooting**](https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/station-maintenance-and-operations/troubleshooting) for detailed guidance.

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### Summary

Accessing data allows you to verify system performance and ensure observations are accurate and usable for analysis.