> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/accessing-the-data/grafana.md). # Grafana Guide to using Grafana dashboards to visualize and monitor 3D-PAWS observations. ### Overview Grafana provides interactive dashboards for viewing 3D-PAWS observations stored in CHORDS. Grafana can be used to: * view current station conditions * explore observations over time * compare multiple sensor variables * identify gaps or unusual patterns in station data * create and customize dashboards for different monitoring needs *** #### Accessing Grafana Grafana can be accessed from the **Visualization** link in the CHORDS portal associated with your station or observation network. 1. Open your CHORDS portal. 2. Locate the **Visualization** link. 3. Open Grafana. 4. Select the appropriate dashboard or station. {% hint style="info" %} CHORDS portal URLs vary by country or project. Access Grafana through the CHORDS portal used by your observation network. {% endhint %} *** #### Working with Dashboards Grafana dashboards are made up of panels that display observations from one or more sensors. Depending on the dashboard configuration, panels may display: * time-series graphs * current values * gauges * tables * other visualizations Use the dashboard time controls to explore observations over different time periods. Grafana dashboards can also be customized to display the measurements and time ranges most useful for a particular project or observation network. *** #### Grafana Training The training slides below provide guidance for using Grafana with 3D-PAWS observations. {% embed url="" %} Click the dots icon to enlarge by entering full screen {% endembed %} {% hint style="info" %} Use the presentation controls to open the slides in full screen for easier viewing. {% endhint %} *** #### Copying a Dashboard Existing Grafana dashboards can be copied and adapted for another station or monitoring application. The video below demonstrates how to copy a dashboard. {% embed url="" %} {% hint style="info" %} Copying an existing dashboard can be easier than building a new dashboard from the beginning, especially when multiple stations use similar sensor configurations. {% endhint %} *** #### Using Grafana to Check Station Data Grafana provides a quick way to visually inspect station observations and identify potential problems. When reviewing a dashboard, look for: * expected observations updating over time * gaps in the data * values that remain unexpectedly constant * abrupt changes or unusual patterns * differences between related measurements If observations are missing from Grafana, check whether the data are present in CHORDS before troubleshooting the dashboard. {% hint style="info" %} If observations are present in **CHORDS** but not displaying correctly in **Grafana**, investigate the dashboard or data-source configuration. If observations are also missing from **CHORDS**, troubleshoot the station-to-CHORDS data path instead. {% endhint %} → [**Troubleshooting**](/station-maintenance-and-operations/troubleshooting.md) *** #### Creating Custom Dashboards Grafana dashboards can be customized to display the observations most useful for a particular station, project, or monitoring network. You can create dashboards that: * display selected sensor variables * combine multiple measurements on a single dashboard * use different visualization types * show specific time ranges * organize observations into different panels * use variables to switch between stations or instruments If you are new to Grafana, copying an existing 3D-PAWS dashboard is often the easiest place to start. You can then modify the copied dashboard for your station or project. **Dashboard Tutorials** The resources below provide additional guidance for creating and customizing Grafana dashboards. * [**Grafana Docs – Build Your First Dashboard**](https://grafana.com/docs/grafana/latest/getting-started/build-first-dashboard/)\ Step-by-step guide to create your first dashboard, add panels, and start visualizing real-time data. * [**Grafana Docs – Panels & Visualizations**](https://grafana.com/docs/grafana/latest/panels-visualizations/)\ Learn about the various types of panels and visualizations Grafana offers, including customization options. * [**Grafana YouTube Channel**](https://www.youtube.com/@Grafana)\ Official Grafana video content, including tutorials, feature guides, and user stories. * [**Grafana YouTube – Visualizations Tutorial**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNRnLyVntUw)\ A great visual tutorial on using and customizing Grafana visualizations. For additional guidance, see the official **Grafana Dashboard Documentation**. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/accessing-the-data/grafana.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. 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