Troubleshooting

Guide to diagnosing common 3D-PAWS issues with power, connectivity, sensor performance, and data transmission.

Overview

Troubleshooting helps identify and resolve issues with station operation, data transmission, and sensor performance.

Start with simple checks before moving to more detailed diagnostics.

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Quick Checks (2 minutes)

• confirm the station is powered

• verify battery voltage (>3.6V) and solar charging

• check that all cables and connections are secure

• confirm the data logger is operating

• verify network connectivity (cellular / WiFi / LoRa)

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Data Issue Patterns

Start by identifying what the data is doing, then use the table below to guide troubleshooting.

🔍 Observation	Likely Cause	Action
No data at all	Power loss, connectivity issue, logger offline	Check power, battery, and network connection
Data flatlines (constant value)	Sensor disconnected or stuck	Inspect wiring and sensor function
Spikes or erratic values	Loose connection or electrical noise	Check cable connections and routing
Temperature too high	Radiation shield exposed to sun or poor airflow	Check siting and shielding
Rain recorded with no rainfall	Debris or tipping bucket issue	Inspect and clean rain gauge
Wind always zero	Blocked or damaged sensor	Check for obstructions or mechanical failure
Battery voltage dropping	Insufficient solar input or battery degradation	Check solar panel exposure and battery condition
Intermittent data gaps	Poor connectivity or unstable power	Check network signal and power stability

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Common Issues

❌ Issue	✅ Action
No data transmission	Check power, connectivity, and data logger status
Incorrect sensor readings	Inspect sensors, wiring, and siting
Intermittent data	Check cable connections and power stability
Low battery	Verify solar input and battery condition
No communication	Check network signal and configuration

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Sensor-Specific Issues

Rain Gauge

• debris blocking tipping mechanism

• not level

• obstruction affecting rainfall

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Wind Sensors

• blocked or restricted rotation

• debris or damage

• incorrect alignment

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Radiation Shield (Temperature / Humidity / Pressure)

• exposure to direct sunlight or shading

• poor airflow

• contamination or dirt

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Soil Sensors (if installed)

• poor soil contact

• disturbed installation

• damaged cable

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Troubleshooting Workflow

1. check power

2. check connections

3. verify configuration

4. inspect sensors

5. confirm data transmission

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Detailed Troubleshooting

For step-by-step procedures, decision trees, and advanced diagnostics:

→ See Full Troubleshooting Guide

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When to Escalate

If issues persist:

• consult the full troubleshooting guide

• review system configuration on Github

• contact project support or technical team

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Summary

Most issues can be resolved by checking power, connections, and sensor placement.