Halisense RS485 Ultrasonic Weather Station User Manual

1. Introduction

This Halisense RS485 Ultrasonic Weather Station is a small, integrated environmental monitoring device designed for a wide range of applications. It combines multiple sensors to measure various environmental parameters, providing comprehensive data for analysis and control.

The station utilizes the standard MODBUS-RTU protocol and RS485 output, allowing for communication distances up to 2000m. Data can be easily uploaded to customer monitoring software, PLCs, or HMIs via RS485.

Common applications include meteorology, oceanography, environmental monitoring, airports, ports, laboratories, industrial settings, agriculture, and transportation.

Key Features:

• High Integration: Multi-collection device integrated design for easy installation.
• Omnidirectional Wind Measurement: Ultrasonic measurement of wind speed and direction (0-360°) with no angle limit.
• Accurate Noise Acquisition: Measures noise from 30dB to 130dB with high accuracy.
• PM2.5 & PM10 Monitoring: Simultaneous acquisition of PM2.5 and PM10 data (0-1000ug/m3) with 1ug/m3 resolution and automatic calibration.
• Precise Temperature & Humidity: Ambient temperature and humidity measurements using a high-accuracy Swiss-imported unit.
• Wide Pressure Range: 0-120Kpa pressure range, suitable for various altitudes.
• Stable Communication: Employs a special 485 circuit for reliable data transmission.

Figure 1: Multiple Halisense Ultrasonic Weather Stations.

2. Specifications

2.1. Measurement Parameters

2.2. General Parameters

2.3. Model and Configuration Options

3. Setup

3.1. Physical Installation

The Halisense weather station features a highly integrated design for easy installation. Consider the following points for optimal performance:

• Mounting Location: Choose a location free from obstructions that could interfere with wind flow, rainfall, or light measurements.
• Orientation: Ensure the sensor is correctly oriented. The top of the sensor has an 'N' mark indicating North. Align this mark with true North for accurate wind direction readings.
• Dimensions: The sensor measures approximately 24cm in height, with a top diameter of 10.4cm and a base diameter of 8.2cm. Ensure adequate space for mounting.

Figure 2: Sensor dimensions (Height: 24cm, Top Diameter: 10.4cm, Base Diameter: 8.2cm).

Figure 3: Detail of the 'N' mark for North alignment.

3.2. Wiring Instructions

Connect the sensor to your power supply and RS485 communication interface according to the following table:

Ensure the power supply is within the 10-30VDC range specified in the general parameters.

Figure 4: Wiring connections for the sensor.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. RS485 Modbus RTU Communication

The sensor communicates using the Modbus RTU protocol over RS485. The default communication parameters are:

• Baud Rate: 4800 bps
• Parity: None
• Data Bits: 8
• Stop Bits: 1
• Default Device Address (Slave ID): 1

4.2. Reading Sensor Data (Example: Temperature & Humidity)

To read temperature and humidity values, the master device sends a Modbus query. Below is an example of a master query and the sensor's expected response:

Master Query:

Sensor Response:

Data Calculation Examples:

• Temperature: If the value is FF9F H, this represents -97. Therefore, the temperature is -9.7℃. (Values less than 0 are represented in complement form).
• Humidity: If the value is 1E6 H, this represents 486. Therefore, the humidity is 48.6%.

4.3. Setting Slave ID

To change the sensor's slave ID (e.g., to 2), the master sends the following command:

The sensor will respond with the same message if successful.

4.4. Setting Baud Rate

To change the baud rate (e.g., to 9600 bps), the master sends the following command:

The sensor will respond with the same message if successful.

4.5. Enquiring Slave ID

To inquire about the current slave ID, the master sends the following command:

The sensor will respond with the current ID.

4.6. Configuration Tool

A dedicated configuration tool is provided to simplify the setup and testing of the sensor. This tool allows you to easily choose parameters like temperature, humidity, wind speed, PM2.5, etc., read values, and configure settings such as slave address and baud rate.

Figure 5: Screenshot of the provided configuration tool.

5. Maintenance

The Halisense Ultrasonic Weather Station is designed for low maintenance. Key points:

• Wind Speed Measurement: The ultrasonic wind speed measurement requires no mechanical maintenance or calibration.
• Cleaning: Periodically inspect the sensor for any accumulation of dirt, dust, or debris, especially on the ultrasonic transducers, light sensor, and rainfall collection area. Gently clean with a soft, damp cloth if necessary. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
• Connections: Ensure all wiring connections remain secure and free from corrosion.
• PM2.5 & PM10: These sensors feature unique dual-frequency data acquisition and automatic calibration technology, contributing to their long-term stability.

Figure 6: The sensor features no starting wind speed limit and requires no maintenance or calibration for wind speed.

6. Troubleshooting

• No Data Output:
  • Verify power supply connections and ensure the voltage is within the 10-30VDC range.
  • Check RS485 wiring (A+ to A-, B- to B-).
  • Confirm Modbus communication parameters (baud rate, parity, data bits, stop bits) match between the sensor and the master device.
  • Ensure the correct Slave ID is being addressed.
• Incorrect Measurements:
  • For wind direction, verify the sensor's North alignment (Figure 3).
  • Ensure the sensor is installed in an unobstructed location.
  • For PM2.5/PM10, while automatic calibration is integrated, ensure the sensor inlet is clear of blockages.
  • If using custom software, double-check data interpretation logic, especially for negative temperature values (complement form).
• Communication Errors:
  • Check for proper termination resistors on the RS485 bus if multiple devices are connected or over long distances.
  • Ensure no other devices on the RS485 bus are using the same Slave ID.

7. User Tips

• Modbus Register Addresses: For detailed access to all readings via RS485, refer to the full Modbus register map provided in the official PDF manual. This manual provides examples for common operations.
• Software Development: Users have reported success in quickly developing drivers for this sensor, sometimes leveraging AI tools for efficiency.
• Packaging: The product is typically well-packaged, ensuring safe arrival.

8. Warranty and Support

For any technical support, warranty claims, or further inquiries, please contact the seller, HaliIoT Store, directly through the platform where the product was purchased.

An official user manual in PDF format is available for more detailed information and Modbus register maps. You can view it here: Halisense Weather Station User Manual (PDF).