Visibility and present weather sensor for METAR and RVR systems

SWS-250

Visibility and present weather sensor for aviation and observation networks, measuring MOR/EXCO from 10 m to 75 km (selectable up to 99,99 km) with 42 WMO Table 4680 codes, 36 METAR codes, RS-232/RS-422/RS-485 and optional ALS-2 interface.
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Introduction

Critical weather decisions need more than a visibility value. For aviation, national observation networks, and demanding weather monitoring sites, this compact sensor combines long-range visibility measurement with advanced present and past weather reporting in one outdoor-ready instrument.
 
A forward-scatter optical geometry measures Meteorological Optical Range (MOR) and atmospheric extinction coefficient (EXCO) across a default 10 m to 75 km range, with the maximum selectable up to approximately 99,99 km. The dedicated backscatter receiver strengthens precipitation classification, helping separate liquid and frozen precipitation and identify a wider range of weather types.
 
Daily operation is kept practical in all-weather sites. Window heaters, heated hoods, and automatic contamination monitoring are fitted as standard, while continuous self-test and two-stage cleaning warnings support planned maintenance. RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 outputs simplify system integration, and the optional ALS-2 interface appends ambient light data for METAR and RVR applications.

Advanced reporting
Outputs 42 WMO Table 4680 codes and 36 METAR present and past weather codes.
Frozen weather clarity
Forward plus backscatter signals separate liquid and frozen precipitation.
Wide visibility range
Measures 10 m to 75 km by default, selectable up to approximately 99,99 km.
Reduced site visits
Heated hoods, window heaters and contamination monitoring are fitted as standard.
Aviation integration
Optional ALS-2 interface appends ambient light data for METAR and RVR systems.
Outdoor confidence
Operates from -40 °C to +60 °C with ingress protection (IP) IP66/IP67.

Features

MOR and EXCO measurement

Reports Meteorological Optical Range and atmospheric extinction coefficient over a configurable visibility range.

Present and past weather codes

Provides WMO Table 4680 and METAR present and past weather reporting, with optional country-specific definitions.

Forward scatter principle

Uses 39° to 51° forward scatter geometry, centred at 45°, to measure particles in the sample volume.

Backscatter receiver

Adds a dedicated backscatter channel for precipitation type determination using intensity, transit time and signal ratio.

Serial communication

 Provides standard RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485 serial outputs for integration into monitoring systems.

ALS-2 interface option

Supports an optional ALS-2 Ambient Light Sensor interface that appends ambient light data to the SWS-250 message.

Self-test and test mode

Monitors key functions continuously and can simulate visibility, present weather, contamination and fault conditions.

Heated outdoor design

Includes fitted hood heaters, window heaters and contamination monitoring across all sensor head windows.

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