> 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/building-3d-paws/adding-additional-instruments.md). # Adding Additional Instruments Optional sensors and instruments for expanding 3D-PAWS beyond the core meteorological measurements. ### Overview In addition to the core weather instruments, 3D-PAWS stations can be configured with additional sensors to support specific environmental monitoring needs. Additional instruments can be included during the initial station build or integrated later as monitoring requirements change. *** #### Available Additional Instruments 3D-PAWS supports additional instruments for measuring: * **Water Level** – stream height and storm surge * **Snow Depth** – snow accumulation * **Soil Moisture and Temperature** – soil and agricultural conditions * **Air Quality** – particulate matter * **Black Globe Temperature** – radiant heat exposure * **Light** – visible, infrared, and ultraviolet radiation Detailed information about each instrument, including assembly, sensors, wiring, and installation considerations, is provided on the individual pages in this section. *** #### Planning Additional Instruments Before adding an instrument, consider: * the environmental variable you need to measure * available mounting locations * sensor siting and exposure requirements * data logger compatibility and available inputs * power requirements * communications and data requirements {% hint style="info" %} Not every additional instrument is compatible with every data logger or station configuration. Review the documentation for the selected instrument and data logger before beginning assembly. {% endhint %} *** #### After Adding an Instrument After assembly and connection, verify that the instrument is functioning correctly and that observations are being received by the data logger before deployment. --- # 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/building-3d-paws/adding-additional-instruments.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. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.