BTD-350 Thunderstorm (Lighning) Detector
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Biral Visibly Better BTD-350 Thunderstorm (Lightning) Detector Datasheet Standalone lightning detector, especially constructed for the marine environment Warns of overhead thunderstorm risk before the first lightning discharge Unique quasi-electrostatic operating principle virtually eliminates false alarms key features & benefits 9 Detects charged precipitation - warns of overhead lightning risk even before the first lightning discharge 9 Highly immune to EM interference which is the major cause of false alarms in traditional standalone detectors 9 83km (45 NM) detection range exceeds the US Federal Aviation Administration requirements 9 Detects cloud-to-ground as well as the weaker but more common cloud-to-cloud lightning 9 Provides information for enhanced CAP437 reporting of thunderstorms 9 Developed for marine applications both on and offshore 9 Certified for marine operation for salt spray, vibration and EMC 9 Meets EN50536:2011+A1:2012 requirements for a Class 1 detector 9 Meets IEC 62793 performance requirements for a Class A detector The BTD-350 Marine Thunderstorm Detector has been designed specifically for use in the marine environment. Its structure has been strengthened to withstand the rigours aboard large vessels with all surfaces coated with a marine grade painting system. The BTD-350 reliably detects the presence of all forms of lightning, out to a range of 83km. The unique quasi-electrostatic operating principle gives the detector a very low false alarm rate and the unique ability to warn of the risk of overhead lightning, even before the lightning has started. Virtually maintenance free, the BTD-350 can operate with the supplied PC display software, seamlessly integrate into sophisticated weather monitoring systems or directly activate local warning lights or sounders. Lightning Detection Virtually all commercially available lightning detection sensors and systems use the detection of radio waves generated by lightning discharges as the primary measurement technique. Whilst providing a sensitive method of detection the many other sources of radio waves such as arcs from electrical motors and equipment, vehicle ignition systems and fixed or mobile transmitters can result in very high false alarm rates. Lightning detection networks resolve this problem through the use of multiple sensors spaced tens or hundreds of kilometres apart combined with signal processing and triangulation. Such networks are typically very costly to install and operate and are therefore only usually operated by national weather services. Standalone radio based lightning detectors often employ secondary measurements such as optical flash detection in an attempt to reduce false alarms and employ complex signal analysis to estimate range. These techniques are only partially

effective, giving these older technology standalone lightning detectors a poor reputation due to their high false alarm rate and poor distance accuracy. The BTD-350 uses quasi-electrostatic measurements to avoid the problems associated with the detection of lightning using radio waves and to provide the ability to issue warnings prior to the first discharge. Electrostatic Lightning Detection When a lightning discharge occurs there is a significant transfer of electric charge which causes a disturbance in the atmospheric electric field detectable to a distance of more than a hundred kilometres....

approaches, without the need for a computer connection or operator intervention. Virtually maintenance free in operation the BTD-350 has a very low cost of ownership but can produce significant operational gains by ensuring only genuine thunderstorm warnings result in suspended operations. The BTD-350 Field Test Unit is a simple battery powered device which simulates lightning in several range bands. It can be used as part of commissioning tests or during routine maintenance activities to enhance user confidence. Sensor Configuration Information For a detailed explanation of the...

Self-test capability Included with Sensor The sensor is delivered in sturdy recyclable foam filled packaging with: - Display and logging software - User manual and calibration certificates Accessories - Optional Specifications are subject to review and change without notice. E&OE. Update rate Power Requirements Certification & Compliance Additional Features Sensor supply Operating temperature Warning state relays (optional) © Biral - Bristol Industrial & Research Associates Ltd. 2018 For more information, visit www.biral.com or contact us at enquiries@biral.com