
Rain sensor RHD
The Sommer RHD is a rain sensor which detects changes of the acoustic pressure that are induced by the impact of raindrops or hailstones. With its disdrometer and hail detection functions the RHD returns the drop size distribution and is a valuable instrument for soil erosion forcast and precipitation monitoring in agriculture, suitable for remote weather stations (on- and offshore) and scientific research.
The sensor is extremely accurate and robust. It features very low-power consumption, is maintenance-free and has a completely sealed acoustic detector with no moving parts.
The sensing device is a polished stainless steel hemisphere supported by a strong stainless steel arm.
Impact detection algorithms make possible to distinguish raindrops from hail.
Precipitation detected |
Liquid (undifferentiated): rain, drizzle/rain, mixed rain/snow, sleet Solid: hail |
Measurement principle |
Acoustic detector |
Measurement area |
hemisphere with Ø160 mm (402 cm²) |
Accuracy of rain intensity |
± 5% at 100% duty-cycle |
Disdrometer |
27 size classes from ≤ 0.75 mm to ≥ 7.0 mm |
Hail detection |
hail stone size ≥ 0.5 cm; up to 5 hits/second |
Power supply |
6V to 30 VDC |
Power consumption |
<1 mA in stand-by mode and 20 mA max in acquisition mode. For a typical nominal duty-cycle of 10%: 2.1 mA (20 mA for duty-cycle of 100%). |
Outputs |
RS-232, SDI-12, pulse and continuous voltage output (0-5V), Modbus RTU (RS485) requires adapter |
Protection |
IP67 |
Dimensions |
260 X 430 X 160 (mm) – including mounting arm |
Mass |
1.4 kg |
Operating temperature |
-30 to + 60 ° C |
Mounting |
Mast or crossbar |
Standards |
EN 61326-1: 2013, CE compliant 2014/30/EU, CE compliant |
Title | Description | Filename |
---|---|---|
Datasheet RHD | Datasheet_RHD_V1_41.pdf |
For more information

"We have found the products and services provided by AMES to be of the highest quality and have never been disappointed in their After Sales Service."
Ralph F. Petragnani
Vice President, Sales & Marketing
Belfort Instrument Company
Baltimore, Maryland, USA