ON-SITE TECHNICAL SUPPORT GUIDE

1) PURPOSE
 

1. The purpose of this guide is to provide CRN Site Operators with a reference document to support site activities. This guide will explain the general maintenance tasks for a CRN site and, by accessing the drop-down menu at the top of this page, specific guidance for CRN station routine maintenance activities, troubleshooting guides, and component replacement guides can be viewed.

2) GENERAL MAINTENANCE

1. Grounds Maintenance – The area around and inside the chain link fence must be trimmed regularly and be kept clear of excessive undergrowth and debris. It is important that this be done on a consistent basis to provide continuity for the measurements being taken. The area around and inside the DFIR should also be trimmed for appearance, but is not as critical for measurement data.
   
    
2. General Equipment Upkeep – The equipment, such as the anemometer, antennas, aspirated shields, battery and control boxes, solar radiation sensor and precipitation gauge, must be kept clear of wind blown debris, vermin nests and excrement.
   
    
3. Precipitation Gauge Maintenance – The precipitation gauge should be emptied on a monthly basis and after a rainfall event of 10 inches or more. The precipitation gauge should not be emptied during an precipitation event, unless absolutely necessary, and should be emptied within the first 10 minutes of the hour.  See the sections pertaining to Geonor precipitation gauge maintenance on the drop down menu for complete instructions.
   
    
4. Visual Site Inspection – Visually inspect the instruments for loose wiring, unusual noises from the aspirated shield fans, the correct orientation of instruments, etc. Report any problems directly to ATDD at 865-576-1233 or email at Mark.E.Hall@noaa.gov.