Datalogger Swapping

2010-08-06 17:30:48.000 – Mike Finnegan,  IT Observer

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Today Brian Forcier and I completed the first in a long series of datalogger replacements. Although we record an extensive range of information here on the summit, it might not be as well known that we also receive information from a number of remote sites. These sites we refer to as our Mesonet. The Auto Road Vertical Profile is an additional part of the Mesonet that runs of the eastern side of the mountain. At each one of these sites, there are probes that measure given weather variables (wind speed, temperature, humidity, etc.) and dataloggers that collect and store this data. As times goes on, both the probes and the dataloggers need to be calibrated for accuracy. While we have most of the probes swapped out, today was the first day we have swapped out a datalogger.

The next step is to write a detailed SOP detailing what wires from each device go where, what tools are needed to complete the task, and any other important information. In this way someone unfamiliar with the process can go out and complete the task. Even with an SOP, it is not always an easy task. Many of these sites require several hours of hiking in remote areas so not only does the gear related to the task at hand need to be packed, but also gear to keep one safe should anything happen. It also becomes quite difficult to handle small objects (screws, screwdrivers, and wires) when temperatures become chilly and the wind picks up. It is certainly an interesting environment to use a computer science degree in!

Mike Finnegan,  IT Observer