Wednesday, January 28, 2009

How the Handheld Anemometer Works

By Ryan Hale

A handheld anemometer is basically a portable anemometer. It is a very reliable device that can easily help any weather watcher. Anemometers were first developed during the 15th century and have continuously been improvised ever since. The word "anemometer" is derived from the Greek word "anemos", meaning wind.

The History of Anemometers

The first anemometers appeared in Italy and in Northern Europe before spreading to the Americas. They were very simple and ingeniously designed. It composed of a single flat disc which would shake in accordance to the winds motion. By looking at the inclination of the disc, the people could determine the degree of the wind pressure. By mid 19th century, more sophisticated anemometers were being used as cups were attached to the ends of a wind vane. When wind rose it would be caught by the cups making the vane turn. The number revolutions of the vane were recorded for readings. This kind of anemometer is still being used today. A similar version of this type spins like a wind mill (vertically) instead of the traditional vertical spinning.

Today's anemometers are very modern. They have grown far its simple flat disc origins they use the latest kind of technology to make accurate wind readings. These anemometers do not only use the wind to make readings but also the detection of particles through laser beams, the measurement if thermal energy, and the movement of sound waves.

What can an anemometer do?

Anemometers are commonly used in weather stations for meteorological purposes. It can measure different aspects of the wind like speed, humidity, temperature and pressure. Anemometers traditionally fall under five types:

- Hot Wire Anemometer - Sonic Anemometer - Laser Doppler Anemometer - Windmill Anemometer - Cup Anemometer

The Handheld Anemometer

The handheld anemometer is basically a personal anemometer. Only measuring a few inches both in length and width, this tool can easily be carried in the pocket. Although small, this device is highly accurate with its readings, normally within 5% of the exact reading. There are certain features that personal anemometers are able to do. These are:

- Measures wind speed (measures up to 100mph easily) in mph, km/h, m/s or Knots - Read wind chill and temperature in Fahrenheit and Celsius - Easily display wind readings - Not easily affected by strong wind and sudden change of direction

Some personal anemometers have additional features to make the device more appealing. Some brands sell anemometers with a waterproof casing and are able to float on water. Others have included the Beufort Scale for the readings while others are even drop tested to make sure that the product will not easily break. Most handheld anemometers are built to not be affected by the changing directions of strong gusts of wind.

Uses of the Handheld Anemometer

The handheld anemometer is a very convenient device for anyone who needs wind reading. Some examples of people who benefit from this kind of anemometer are: engineers, people who take kite flying seriously, wind surfers, and climbers.

The handheld anemometer is an important tool not only for professional weather watchers but also the amateur ones. Whether you enjoy, sailing, work in a weather station or you just want to make your own weather forecast, this device will definitely help you a lot. - 16747

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