Precision Snow/Rain Gauge FT-YX2 Enables All-Weather, High-Precision Monitoring of Mixed Solid and Liquid Precipitation

Precision Snow/Rain Gauge The FT-YX2 employs the weighing method to measure all types of precipitation, capable of monitoring liquid, solid, and mixed solid-liquid forms. It features a measurement range of 0–1500 mm, a resolution of 0.01 mm, a maximum measurement error of ±0.1 mm, and an operating temperature range of -45°C to +60°C. With an IP65 protection rating, it is suitable for applications in meteorology, hydrology, airports, highways, and other fields.

Precision Snow/Rain Gauge is a high-precision precipitation monitoring device based on the weighing principle, capable of automatically measuring liquid, solid, and mixed solid-liquid precipitation under all weather conditions. Compared to traditional tipping-bucket rain gauges, Precision Snow/Rain Gauge is not restricted by the form of precipitation; it can accurately measure not only rainfall but also snowfall, hail, and sleet, thereby resolving the long-standing challenge of accurately quantifying solid precipitation. Its core operating principle involves collecting precipitation in a sampling bucket; a high-precision weighing sensor measures the change in the bucket's weight, which is then converted into a precipitation value based on the area of the collection aperture.

The FT-YX2 model Precision Snow/Rain Gauge utilizes load-sensing technology. Its collection aperture features an inner diameter of φ200 ± 0.6 mm and a sharp rim angle of 40° to 45°, fully complying with national standards for hydrological instruments. The sampling bucket offers a maximum measurement range of 1500 mm, with a minimum data acquisition interval of 1 minute. Regarding data output, the resolution reaches 0.01 mm when transmitted via the RS485 interface, while both pulse output and switch-contact output modes provide a resolution of 0.1 mm. The maximum measurement error is controlled within ±0.1 mm (for precipitation ≤ 10 mm) or ±1% (for precipitation > 10 mm); this level of precision meets the rigorous data quality requirements for meteorological observation and hydrological monitoring. In terms of environmental adaptability, the FT-YX2 model Precision Snow/Rain Gauge features an operating temperature range of -45°C to +60°C and a storage temperature range of -45°C to +70°C. It accommodates relative humidity levels ranging from 0% to 100%, boasts an IP65 protection rating, and possesses salt-spray resistance capabilities. The device operates on a 9–15V DC power supply; at a voltage of 12V, its power consumption is merely 0.72W. This low-power design makes it ideally suited for unmanned field stations powered by solar energy. An optional 24V/50W annular heating unit is available, capable of automatically heating to melt snow under extreme conditions—such as heavy snowfall and severe frost—thereby ensuring the accuracy of solid precipitation measurements. The device chassis is constructed from aluminum, the collection tray from ABS material, and other components from polyethylene. The complete unit weighs 15 kg, with dimensions of 910 mm in height and 450 mm in diameter. Regarding communication capabilities, the device is equipped with an RS485 interface for parameter configuration and data output, as well as a USB interface for system upgrades and debugging.

The Precision Snow/Rain Gauge can be widely deployed in various fields, including meteorological observation, hydrological monitoring, early flood warning systems, airport runway snowfall monitoring, and highway weather monitoring. Within meteorological agencies, it serves as a replacement for traditional tipping-bucket rain gauges, enabling automated observation of all types of precipitation. In the hydrological sector, it provides continuous and reliable precipitation data support for flood control and drought mitigation efforts. In the transportation sector, airport and highway management authorities can utilize the snowfall intensity data to initiate snow removal operations in a timely manner. The product can be integrated with cloud-based platforms to upload real-time data—such as precipitation intensity and accumulated precipitation—allowing users to access and monitor this information remotely at any time. Currently, the Precision Snow/Rain Gauge has been successfully deployed across multiple provinces, contributing to the precise monitoring of precipitation and the development of intelligent hydrological sensing systems.