Automated Weather Sensor System

Over the years, AWI has developed a reputation for accuracy and reliability. As a result, the company is the leading supplier of FAA sponsored weather systems. The Automated Weather Sensor System (AWSS), a follow-on to the FAA's Federal AWOS program, is a surface weather observing system that provides minute-by-minute weather observations. The AWSS features a flexible, modular design that is capable of operating at different geographical locations with a variety of advanced weather sensor configurations. The AWSS collects, processes, and ensures the quality of crucial weather measurements. A wide range of precision sensor options is available:Forward Scatter Visibility Sensor: an active, electro-optical instrument that determines visibility by measuring the optical extinction coefficient of a beam of light as it passes through a known volume of air; advanced four-head, dual beam design measures fog, dust, rain, snow, haze, smoke, and sand. Ceilometer: a GaAs laser diode emits a laser pulse that is partially reflected from the cloud; the time when a pulse leaves the transmitter to when the reflected portion reaches the receiver varies with cloud height. Present Weather Sensor: measures precipitation by detecting the optical irregularities induced by particles falling through a beam of partially coherent infrared light. Wind Speed Sensor: a low-threshold, three-cup anemometer mounted to the top of the tower that measures wind speed. Wind Direction Sensor: a highly sensitive vane mounted to the top of the tower that measures wind direction. Freezing Rain Sensor: detects an occurrence of freezing rain by the change in the probe tip's oscillating frequency caused by ice accretion. Tipping Bucket Rain Gauge: precision sensor used to measure rainfall volume or rate. Motor Aspirated Radiation Shield with Temperature & Relative Humidity Sensor: precision temperature/humidity sensor housed in a Motor Aspirated Radiation Shield; designed for ventilation, and shielding from direct and reflected solar radiation and from direct moisture contact. AWSS Comprehensive ReportingThe AWSS issues weather reports using predefined formats and communications protocols. Weather observation data can be made available to both local and remote users. The password-protected user interface accommodates a variety of users. Weather observers may edit automatically generated weather data and daily and monthly summary reports, and manually generate special weather reports (SPECIs). Air traffic control specialists can perform limited editing functions and control the manual recording of voice messages to be used with automated voice weather report outputs. Technicians can change the system's configuration and execute system diagnostics and tests. System managers may change and assign passwords and the remote access code, and can access all technician user level functions.AWSS Data Collection UnitsThe AWSS is a comprehensive system of meteorological sensors whose data is gathered by a Field Data Collection Unit (FDCU). The data is checked for errors then transmitted via a UHF or land line data link to a Terminal Data Acquisition Unit (TDAU). At the TDAU, the data is processed, logged, and disseminated by various means, including an ADAS connection to the internationally accessible National Airspace Data Interchange Network (NADIN), dial-up telephone line, CRT displays, and VHF ground-to-air radio transmitter. The AWSS operational software collects, processes, and reports the weather data. It also provides an interface for observers and technicians, and communicates with the Field Data Collection Unit and the system's communications interface. AWSS Installation and MaintenanceThe AWSS is easy to install and inexpensive to maintain. Its modular design allows you to mix and match exactly the functions you need. An easy-to-follow AWOS site preparation checklist ensures error-free installation. The optional UHF data link means expensing trenching and cable runs from the field station to the displays are not required.Built-in diagnostics continually check each sensor for accuracy and correct operation. Should a failure occur, it is reported immediately. The diagnostic software points the technician to the exact component that needs attention, making mean time to repair the lowest of any advanced weather monitoring system.AWSS Remote Maintenance MonitoringAll AWI AWSS systems have full Remote Maintenance Monitoring (RMM) capabilities. This ensures that should a failure occur, AWI knows about it as soon as you do. We then provide either a replacement part or an engineer to solve the problem.AWSS ExperienceAWI is the FAA's supplier of choice. The company has over 25 years experience providing advanced weather systems to airports around the world. To ensure complete customer satisfaction, all systems are built to the highest standards of quality and reliability, using only the latest proven technologies.