How the Handheld Anemometer Works
A handheld anemometer is very reliable devices that can help anyone make their own wind readings. It is very handy that you can easily slip it inside your pocket. Developed during the 15th century, anemometers of today have very much improved since then. The term “anemometer” is from the Greek word “anemos” which means “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.
Modern anemometers are very impressive devices that can give you accurate wind readings on an LCD display. They use not only the wind to make the readings but also the movement of sound waves, the detection of particles through laser beams, and the measurement of thermal energy.
What can an anemometer do?
An anemometer is a device to measure the speed of wind. It is used for meteorological purposes in weather stations. It can also measure the winds temperature, humidity and pressure.The five types of anemometers are:
-Cup Anemometer – Windmill Anemometer – Hot Wire Anemometer – Laser Doppler Anemometer – Sonic Anemometer
The Handheld Anemometer
Also known as a personal anemometer, the handheld anemometer is not a large device measuring only a few inches in length and width. It is able to measure wind accurately, usually within 5% of the exact reading. Almost all handheld anemometers are able to do three things:
- Easily displays wind readings, – Can read wind chill and temperature in Fahrenheit and Celsius. – Measures wind speed (measures up to 100mph easily) in mph, km/h, m/s or Knots
Other handheld anemometers have added features like a waterproof casing, a reading using the Beufort Scale, and drop tested for a certain amount of feet. Most personal anemometers are made not to be affected by very strong gusts of wind or wind changes.
Who can benefit from using a handheld anemometer?
Many people can benefit from using a handheld anemometer. Since it is convenient to carry around, people who need to be aware of the weather will not have a difficult time doing it. Some people who may benefit by using a handheld anemometer are: engineers, serious kite flyers, 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.
Tags: anemometer, handheld anemometer, la crosse anemometer, Science, Technology
