Re-engineered snow depth sensor delivers accurate real-time measurements during active snowfall

R.M. Young Company has launched a re-engineered version of its SNOdar (Model 54000), a compact LIDAR-based snow depth sensor that delivers accurate, real-time measurements, even in the middle of a snowstorm.

Accurate snow depth data plays an important role in applications such as hydrological monitoring, avalanche forecasting, winter road maintenance and public safety. Yet obtaining reliable measurements during active snowfall has long been a challenge. Many conventional snow depth sensors use ultrasonic technology, which can be affected by falling snow and harsh weather conditions. Using Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) technology, SNOdar can continue measuring snow depth accurately while snow is falling.

R.M. Young Company, which has manufactured meteorological instrumentation since 1964, acquired the SNOdar technology and subsequently undertook an extensive redesign programme. The objective was to enhance reliability and ease of use while bringing the product in line with the company's engineering standards. Improvements include a redesigned mobile app, more robust SDI-12 communications, improved data visualisation tools and a new mounting clamp that offers better thermal isolation.

The sensor includes an internal non-volatile data logger capable of storing a full season of measurements, reducing the need for additional logging equipment in the field. Data can be transmitted via SDI-12 and RS-232 interfaces, making it straightforward to integrate the instrument into existing meteorological and hydrological monitoring networks.

Despite its capabilities, the SNOdar remains highly compact. Weighing just 265g and smaller than a baseball, it is suitable for deployment in remote locations where space, power and accessibility may be limited. With an average power consumption of only 0.5W, the sensor is well-suited to solar-powered and battery-operated monitoring stations.

Configuration, calibration and data retrieval are carried out wirelessly using a free iOS or Android application and Bluetooth Low Energy connectivity, eliminating the need for cables or an on-site computer. According to the company, most installations can be completed in less than 30 minutes.

For environmental agencies, researchers and infrastructure operators seeking dependable snow measurements in challenging winter conditions, the redesigned SNOdar offers a compact and low-power monitoring solution capable of providing continuous data when it is needed most.

Conor Byrne, Engineering Manager at R.M. Young Company commented, “Snow professionals trusted us with their feedback, and that meant something to our team. We poured an enormous amount of engineering work into this product, listening carefully, addressing every concern and holding ourselves to the standard that R.M. Young has stood for over six decades. The SNOdar that exists today is a direct result of that process. We are incredibly proud of what this instrument has become, and we believe the people who depend on it will feel the difference.” 

R.M. Young Company will host a free technical webinar on Thursday, 28 May 2026, from 1:00–2:00 PM EST/5:00-6:00 PM CET. It will cover SNOdar's measurement technology and performance in storm conditions, hardware specifications and deployment best practices, connectivity and network integration, and recent product enhancements. The webinar will be presented by Gabe Denton, Business Development Manager, and Conor Byrne, Engineering Manager, and will include a live Q&A. The session is designed for field technicians, hydrologists, meteorologists, and engineers responsible for snow monitoring infrastructure. Registration is free here.