How to Install, Setup and Use an Anemometer [Detailed Guide]

We all want the weather to be on our side when we indulge ourselves in various outdoor undertakings. These may be professional or recreational. Regardless we strive our endeavors to be favorable to weather elements, for instance, the wind.

You must have felt exasperated at least once when you attempted to play badminton on a windy day. Various sporting activities require the appropriation with the wind if one wishes to succeed. For this, you may have to get a brief idea about how the wind is acting before you begin your desired activity. 

Thankfully, we have just the thing that allows you to assess this with the least effort. A quantitative measurement such as wind speed and wind direction is quite feasible now through a little device called an anemometer.

Not only does the anemometer briefs you up about the wind components, but most modern anemometers give figures about various other particulars. Let’s understand this concept.

What is an Anemometer?

An anemometer is a device that is used to measure various components of wind, such as the speed, direction, velocity as well as, temperature, atmospheric pressure, etc. Modern anemometers or digital anemometers can come in handy to briefly assess your ambient conditions before indulging in outdoor endeavors such as kite flying, fishing, boating, surfing, camping, etc.

How does an Anemometer Work?

Standardize anemometers such as vane, consist of cups that are used to capture the flowing wind. Other units such as vane, dial measuring sub-units are fitted in to perform various functions such as measuring the direction and speed of the wind, assess the velocity and convert it numerically, and show the final results on display. 

How to Use an Anemometer?

There are several kinds of anemometers, including traditional ones, most of which have been replaced by digital anemometers. Using a digital anemometer is as easier as it can get. It gives the most accurate figures about the ambient conditions. 

The deep-rooted functionality may differ from brand to brand and model to model, but the basic operation remains the same. In this article, we will attempt to fathom the operation of an anemometer in a prescribed way. Before getting into the topic, buy the best handheld anemometer if you don't own one.

Setting-up an Anemometer

Step-1: Read the instruction manual

• All digital anemometers come with an instruction manual created by the manufacturer, which tells you everything you need to know about the anemometer. 
• This includes the meticulous details about the features and specifications of the anemometer. It also mentions the function of each part with diagrams for the convenience of the user. If you did not get a user manual in the package, you can even search for it online and read it for free. 
• The manual also gives instructions on how to set-up the anemometer. Thus, it is recommended to thoroughly read the manual before beginning to use the anemometer.

Step-2: Insert the battery

• Most packages come with a battery that powers up the device. If the battery is absent from the package, read the manual to know about the battery type and purchase the same from a retail store. 
• Gather how many cells it requires and make purchases accordingly. To proceed, unscrew the battery compartment located at the back of the device and insert the battery before screwing it back.

Step-3: Turn the device on

• You will find numerous buttons on the front of the device with the abbreviation of the performing function or a symbol connoting that on the front. Turn on the device once you have installed the batteries by pressing the on/off button. 

Step-4: Choose preferred units of measurements

Digital anemometers nowadays come with a multitude of units of measurement, and the selection is left on the personal discretion of the individual. 

Most notably, the wind speed can be calculated in 5 different units of measurement, such as km/hr. m/hr, ft/second. Ft/minute and knots. Due to people preferring different units based on their region, you can select your preferred unit by pressing the unit button and scanning through the list of units. 

Reading an anemometer

Step-1

• Once you have set the device as per your needs, you can go ahead and begin operating it. To take readings about wind on the anemometer, hold it high where the wind can gush against the device. You can make the device face the direction of the wind for it to register the speed of the wind more efficiently. 

Step-2

• Ensure that the device is above your head while you attempt to register the wind speed; otherwise, your body may hinder the final calculations. Also, ensure that you are standing in a clear space, free of trees or buildings nearby for better efficiency of the device.

Step-3 

• As soon as the anemometer registers the wind speed on the device, the numerical value will appear on the screen in large digits. In case it was the airflow that you were measuring, the figure may fluctuate by each second as the flow of air changes rapidly. You can attempt to take the measurement again to verify authenticity. 

Traditional Anemometers are also something that can be made out of different everyday materials at home. The accuracy would depend upon how carefully you have followed the instructions. But the accuracy and authenticity of digital anemometer remain unbeatable. 

You can purchase this device at a fairly reasonable price online or from a local electronic store. You can also refer our Anemometer review article to make your choice.

Conclusion

Anemometers can be highly useful products if used as per the protocol. Due to their wide application, they have been infernally popular amongst people who often find themselves in the midst of outdoor activities. 

They have even been proven to be useful during camping, hiking, and skiing trips. It is necessary to keep your own objectives and expectations from the device in mind while purchasing an anemometer. Once you have bought a model that corresponds with your own needs you will have a great experience with it.