> 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/deploying-3d-paws/field-installation-and-deployment.md). # Field Installation and Deployment ### Overview Field installation begins after the station has been assembled, configured, and tested. The deployment process on this page is organized into three stages: 1. **Prepare the Site** 2. **Install the Station** 3. **Verify the Installation** Use the **3D-PAWS Installation Checklist** throughout the deployment to confirm that required installation and verification steps are completed before leaving the site. *** #### Installation Checklist The [**3D-PAWS Installation Checklist**](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1--PBiW-t_eiH6AI-fDY2usEfYwW2dc-Q79F7PT1GA9w/edit?usp=sharing) provides a field reference for: * preparing the installation area * installing and securing the station * checking instrument placement * verifying power and communications * confirming sensor operation * recording required site information {% hint style="info" %} Use the checklist during the installation rather than relying on memory. Complete all applicable checks before leaving the site. {% endhint %} *** #### Instruction Slides for Installing the Weather Station > **NOTE:** This section is being updated from building and installing the station to just installation after pre-assembly in the lab. The slide deck will be split into two sections and updated soon. {% embed url="" %} Use these slides for the step-by-step procedure for installing the pre-assembled station structure and instruments in the field. **Tutorial Videos for Installing 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. {% embed url="" %} *** ### Prepare the Site Before installing the station, confirm that the selected location still meets the requirements identified during site selection. Check that the installation area provides: * appropriate exposure for the instruments * sufficient solar access * reliable communications coverage * safe access for installation and maintenance * adequate security * stable ground or mounting conditions For detailed instrument exposure and siting requirements, see [**Site Selection**](/deploying-3d-paws/site-selection.md). {% hint style="warning" %} If field conditions differ significantly from the original site assessment, reevaluate the location before installing the station. {% endhint %} #### Prepare the Installation Area Before mounting the station: * clear only the vegetation or debris necessary for safe installation * identify underground utilities or other hazards before driving posts or anchors * confirm that the mounting location is stable * organize tools, hardware, and station components before beginning installation * verify that the station can be positioned without creating unnecessary obstructions around the sensors *** ### Install the Station Install and secure the station using the procedure shown in the installation slides. After installation, confirm that: * the station structure is stable * vertical supports are properly positioned * instruments and mounting arms are secure * the rain gauge is level * cables are routed and protected from strain * connectors are fully seated * the solar panel and battery system are connected * all enclosures are closed and protected from weather {% hint style="info" %} Mechanical stability is part of good instrument siting. A station that shifts, tilts, or vibrates can affect measurements and increase wear on components. {% endhint %} *** #### Instrument Placement Instrument placement should follow the requirements established during **Site Selection**. During installation, perform a final check of each instrument. **Rain Gauge** Confirm that the rain gauge: * is level * has an unobstructed opening * is clear of overhead dripping or runoff * is not exposed to sprinklers or other artificial irrigation * is securely mounted **Wind Sensors** Confirm that the anemometer and wind vane: * rotate freely * are securely mounted * have the best available exposure to the surrounding airflow * are not unnecessarily obstructed by the station structure or nearby objects The wind vane must also be aligned to **true north**. → See [**Wind Vane Alignment**](/deploying-3d-paws/wind-vane-alignment.md) **Radiation Shield** Confirm that the radiation shield: * is exposed to freely circulating ambient air * is not directly affected by nearby heat sources * is securely mounted * is positioned according to the selected siting configuration **Solar Panel** Confirm that the solar panel: * has clear exposure to sunlight * is securely mounted * is oriented according to the selected solar configuration * is not shaded by the station or nearby objects For detailed power-system guidance, see **Solar Power**. *** ### Verify the Installation Before leaving the site, verify that the complete station is operating correctly. #### Power and Communications Confirm that: * the data logger powers on normally * the battery and solar system are connected * the data logger connects to the expected network * observations are being transmitted when communications are available #### Sensor Operation Confirm that: * all expected sensors are detected * sensor values are updating * measurements are physically reasonable for current conditions * the rain gauge and anemometer respond when manually tested, where appropriate * wind direction changes appropriately when the vane is rotated {% hint style="info" %} If observations are missing, unexpected, or unrealistic, use the **Troubleshooting** guidance before leaving the site whenever possible. {% endhint %} #### Verify Data at the Data Service If network connectivity is available, confirm that new observations appear in the configured data service or dashboard. Check: * observation timestamps * expected reporting frequency * expected sensor variables * reasonable measurement values This confirms the complete path from the sensor through the data logger and communications system to the data service. *** #### Record Station Metadata After the installation is complete, document the site and station configuration. Record information such as: * station location and elevation * instrument heights * station orientation * data logger and communications configuration * power-system configuration * site conditions * installation photographs * known siting limitations Do not duplicate the full metadata procedure here. → See [**Station Metadata**](/deploying-3d-paws/station-metadata.md) for the complete metadata form and documentation requirements. *** #### Before Leaving the Site Complete one final walk-around and confirm that: * the station is stable and secure * all hardware is tightened * all cables are protected * instruments are correctly positioned * the wind vane is aligned * the station is powered * communications are functioning where available * observations are updating * metadata and installation photographs have been recorded * tools, packaging, and installation debris have been removed from the site --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. 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