New generation of ultrasonic snow depth sensors

Sommer Messtechnik have recently unveiled their new USH-9 ultrasonic, snow depth sensors, which has been designed to provide precise, reliable and continuous results whilst being maintenance free. The USH-9 has proved itself in extreme conditions, having performed well even in research stations in Antarctica. The sensors are easily integrated into existing measurement stations and weather stations using either analogue or digital interfaces.

USH-9 sensors come with a robust, sealed ceramic membrane which takes care about the maintenance free operation. Due to the use of an optimized protective shield, to defend against the effects of snow and ice, no heating is needed, furthermore a highly efficient integrated lightning protection is included as well. This allows the sensor to perform even in the most bitter of winter conditions. The sensors will automatically compensate for fluctuating temperatures affecting the speed of its ultrasonic signal. The USH-9’s capability to perform reliably autonomously makes it a highly economic option in terms of lifecycle costs and reduces the costs of ownership.

The sensors’ parameters can be set simply by utilising COMMANDER software. There is also a ‘sleep mode’ to reduce energy consumption between measuring phases and operators can adjust the quantity of measurements to suit their specific task. Operators can detect snow falls, precipitation intensity, whether snow has settled on the ground and status updates on previous limit values. Specially the new added features to recognize snow fall and rain add a lot of value to the new maintenance free sensor.

SOMMER has enjoyed excellent feedback from very satisfied customers, one of whom described the accuracy of the USH-9 as ‘breathtaking’. This sensor is the latest development from a company who has specialist in highly accurate measurement technology for environmental monitoring for over 3 decades.