> 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/setting-up-the-data-logger/arduino-mkr.md). # Arduino MKR ### Overview The **Arduino MKR Data Logger** is a microcontroller-based platform that can be used to operate a 3D-PAWS weather station. It provides low-power sensor polling, local data storage, and optional cellular data transmission. The MKR platform runs the **3D-PAWS MKR Full Station firmware**, which reads environmental sensors, timestamps observations, and stores measurements locally on a microSD card. When connectivity is available, data can be transmitted to remote services such as **CHORDS** for visualization and analysis. The MKR system is designed for **compact, low-power weather stations**, making it suitable for solar-powered deployments and experimental monitoring systems. *** ### Supported Hardware The MKR implementation typically uses one of the following boards: * **Arduino MKR NB 1500** – LTE cellular connectivity * **Arduino MKR GSM 1400** – GSM cellular connectivity Supporting components typically include: * MicroSD card for local data storage * Real-Time Clock (RTC) module * Cellular SIM card * Cellular antenna * EEPROM memory *** ### Instruction Slides for Assembling the Data Logger {% embed url="" %} *** ### Sensors Supported * Light sensor * Rain Gauge * Anemometer * Wind Vane * Radiation Shield (Temperature, Pressure, & Relative Humidity) * Globe Temperature * Air Quality (PM 1.0, 2.5, 10) * Distance Gauge (Stream, Storm Surge, and Snow Height) * Soil Moisture and Temperature * Leaf Wetness Additional sensors may be integrated depending on the station configuration. *** ### Data Flow In a typical MKR-based station, data flows through the system as follows: ``` Sensors ↓ Arduino MKR Data Logger ↓ Local Storage (microSD card) ↓ Cellular Network ↓ CHORDS Data Portal ↓ Grafana Visualization ``` Local storage ensures measurements are preserved even if connectivity is temporarily unavailable. *** ### Firmware The firmware used for MKR-based stations is available from the 3D-PAWS GitHub repository: **3D-PAWS MKR Full Station** {% embed url="" %} The repository contains: * station firmware * configuration parameters * sensor interface libraries * hardware pin mappings Users should download the latest version when configuring a station. *** ### Notes * Stations using MKR should be fully tested before deployment to verify sensor readings and connectivity. * A properly configured **SIM card and cellular signal** are required for remote data transmission. * Local SD storage provides a backup if cellular connectivity is interrupted. *** ### MKR Wiring Diagram
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