Warn of overhead lightning risk before the first strike
The lightning warning system is a modular system and is designed to operate out-of-the-box. It is also expandable as requirements grow or change.
The essential system comprises of a lightning detector which is placed outside, while a PC located indoors runs the supplied Lightning Works server software (LW). A user views the lightning distance in real-time on a map of the local area whilst displaying the urgent lightning alarm level. The BTD-200 can be connected directly to an appropriately sized warning sounder if required.
Lightning Detection and Warning Systems
The only reliable and consistent way of issuing a lightning warning is with a dedicated lightning detection system. About 90% of thunderstorms are already producing lightning by the time they are within 12 miles (20 km), so a professional, real-time lightning warning system must provide adequate notice of an approaching storm.
Overhead Lightning – the most dangerous!
However, in the remaining 10% of thunderstorms, the first flash will occur nearby or overhead, which is the most dangerous. Therefore, it is important not to rely on products which only detect lightning. These cannot provide any advanced warning of the threat of overhead lightning and therefore its danger!
The ideal warning system…
The ideal thunderstorm detecting system will give adequate warning before the storm moves overhead and will also warn of the threat posed by the potential for overhead lighting before it has begun. In both cases, this advanced notice allows managers and operators of at-risk sites to alert staff, visitors, or players to the threat.
The thunderstorm detector should be able to alert for both distant lightning and the presence of a strong electric field at your location. This strong electric field is indicative of a lightning developing overhead – so potentially a very serious situation and one to take immediate action over.
BTD-200 offers all these advantages
The innovative BTD-200 lightning warning system is able to do both
- detect distant lightning up to 22 miles (35km) away
- warn of overhead strong electric field, even when there is no lightning being produced.
The Lightning Works software will then alert the staff and managers to these threats, in real time, allowing them to review and manage the situation and to warn the members, the public and their own staff to the potential danger. It can also activate warning sounders automatically if required.
The BTD-200 is the next generation of lightning detection and warning system. It has been developed from proven professional technology currently used world-wide at airports and by national meteorological organisations.
Lightning Works – Graphical Alarm Software
Included with the BTD-200 lightning warning system is the control and display software – Lightning Works. This comprehensive software package allows the user to configure the BTD-200 to meet their warning needs via user adjustable warning zones. It displays the lightning location in real-time on a map of the local area whilst displaying the current lightning alarm level.
Lightning Works Messenger – SMS/email Warning Software
This software package is available as an option and integrates directly with Lightning Works. Lightning Works Messenger automatically generates and sends warning messages via mobile (cell) phone SMS text messages and emails to a list of pre-defined recipients. These warning messages can be sent to any number of recipients, including operations or site managers, those responsible for safety or even directly to affected staff working outside.
Lightning Direction Finder – instantly locate strikes
This hardware option easily connects to the main lightning detector located outside. It calculates the direction of all detected lightning flashes. This information is automatically plotted onto the map view within the Lightning Works software application showing the range and direction. This allows the user to track the path of the storm and monitor its severity. Thereby allowing timely warnings to be issued and also the quick resumption of activities after the storm has passed.
Specifications
Measurement
- Lightning Detection – Cloud-to-cloud, cloud-to-ground and intra-cloud lightning discharges
- Thunderstorm activity for advanced warning of lightning – Charged precipitation and strong electric field
- Lightning detection range – 35km (22miles)
Power Requirements
- Supply voltage – 9 to 30Vdc – Universal mains power adaptor included
- Power consumption – Less than 5W
Environmental
- Shock and vibration – Land based fixed installation
- Weight – 4.3kg (9.5lbs) Sensor only
Certification & Compliance
- CE Certified
- EMC compliance with EN61326-1:2013 Industrial immunity, domestic emissions
- RoHS and WEEE compliant
- Compliance with EN50536:2011+A1:2012 for a Class 1 detector
- Performs in accordance with IEC 62793 for a Class A detector
Accessories
- Direction finder
- Mounting pole with flange base
- Wall Mounting bracket
- Additional power cable p/m
- Additional data cable p/m
- Earthing kits