Pre-Assemble the Weather Station

Guide to assembling, testing, and preparing a 3D-PAWS station for transport before field deployment.

Before deploying a 3D-PAWS station in the field, the system should be fully assembled and tested in a workshop, laboratory, or other controlled environment. Pre-assembly ensures that all components function correctly before installation and reduces troubleshooting time at the deployment site.

Testing the station before deployment allows technicians to verify sensor operation, confirm wiring, and identify configuration issues while tools and replacement parts are readily available.

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Objectives of Pre-Assembly

Pre-assembly and testing help confirm that:

• all sensors initialize correctly

• cables and connectors are properly installed

• the data logger is operating and communicating correctly

• sensor values appear reasonable

• the power system is functioning properly

Completing these checks before traveling to the field helps prevent installation delays and ensures that stations can be deployed efficiently.

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Assemble the Station

During pre-assembly, the station should be built in the same configuration that will be used in the field.

Typical steps include:

• assembling the station frame or mast

• installing the radiation shield and environmental sensors

• installing wind sensors and the rain gauge

• mounting the data logger enclosure

• connecting all sensor cables and I²C connectors

• installing the solar panel and battery system

Refer to the instrument assembly pages for detailed instructions:

• Rain Gauge Assembly

• Radiation Shield Assembly

• Anemometer

• Wind Vane Assembly

• Solar Panel Mount

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Test the Sensors

After the station is assembled, verify that all sensors are functioning correctly.

Typical checks include:

• confirming the station powers on

• verifying that sensor readings appear in the data logger output

• checking that wind sensors rotate freely

• verifying that the rain gauge registers tipping events

• confirming temperature, humidity, and pressure values are reasonable

See: Testing the Sensors

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Verify Data Logging and Communications

Confirm that the station is correctly logging and transmitting data.

Typical checks include:

• verifying the data logger is online

• confirming sensor data appears in the console or data platform

• confirming correct station configuration and firmware

• verifying that timestamps and reporting intervals are correct

See:

• Data Logger – Particle

• Data Logger – Raspberry Pi

• Data Access and Visualization

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Prepare the Station for Transport

After testing is complete, the station should be partially disassembled for safe transport.

Typical preparation steps include:

• removing delicate sensors if necessary

• securing cables and connectors

• protecting sensors from impact during transport

• organizing tools and hardware needed for field installation

Keeping components organized during transport makes reassembly in the field easier and reduces the risk of lost parts.

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Instruction Slides for Building the Weather Station

NOTE: This section is being updated from building and installing the station to pre-assembling in the lab. The slide deck will be split into two sections and updated soon.

Tutorial Videos for Building the Weather Station

This video is part of a playlist that demonstrates building the 3D-PAWS station. You can toggle between videos using the list icon at the top right or by using the "fast forward" button at the bottom left.

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Next Step

Once the station has been assembled and tested, it can be transported to the installation site for deployment.

See: Field Installation and Deployment