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Second Wind News Archives
Second Wind Data Logger Nomad® Now Includes Remote Data
Collection Option
 February
4,
2002 — Second
Wind Inc., a leading manufacturer of wind energy data loggers since 1980,
has announced the availability of cellular data collection from its Nomad® data
via the GSM cellular network. The remote data collection option reduces
the number of site visits, saving wind prospectors’ time and money.
Remote access is especially beneficial for those with a large number of
measurement sites, or widely distributed sites. The Nomad data logger can
be checked without going into the field after every large storm to ensure
data is still being logged.
The GSM modem is included with the Nomad as part of a complete package. The customer activates the modem by inserting a SIM chip from a local cellular service provider. The system, including the modem, is engineered for low power consumption. A complete photovoltaic charging system is included, so there is never a need to change the batteries. The same solar panel powers the Nomad as well, so the Nomad cellular system is self–sufficient. Second Wind’s WinSite 3.0 software for data collection and processing is also included in the package.
Professional meteorologists and research agencies agree that remote cellular/data logger technology can significantly reduce the costs involved in gathering wind data. With the Second Wind data logger system, data can be retrieved weekly, daily, or as frequently as needed. If a sensor fails, data quality assurance will reveal the problem before months of data are lost. Weather conditions, site access restrictions, or site conditions all make the option of bringing the data to the customer rather than the customer to the data especially appealing.
The GSM modem is connected to the Nomad through a serial port on the front panel. Customers use WinSite 3.0 on any PC with a modem to access the cellular modem at the site. The Nomad then transmits the data via the modem as if the PC were connected locally. Nomad data is stored on a RAM card, which comes in varying capacities to hold over a year of data as a backup. The logger also has a data buffer so no data is lost while cards are changed.
"This remote option is going to be very beneficial to our customers," says Walter Sass, president of Second Wind Inc., "Remote connection to Nomad over the GSM network takes fullest advantage of Nomad’s field proven design. The integration of the world’s most reliable wind energy data logger and the most advanced digital cellular system offers substantial cost savings to our customers, particularly in Europe where the GSM network is dominant. Giving our customers the ability to reliably collect data from remote sites, as often as they want, without making several costly trips, is a key advantage in today’s wind resource assessment market."
The GSM package includes the Nomad data logger (complete with built–in
LCD screen, keypad, and waterproof lockable NEMA–4 fiberglass box)
) , alkaline batteries, WinSite 3.0 software, the GSM modem, a 12V battery
system, a 10W photovoltaic panel, a PV regulator / battery charger, a dual
mode antenna with 3 meters of coaxial cable, and a steel shelter box.
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